Induction heating cooker

Abstract

To provide an induction heating cooker with improved usability.SOLUTION: An induction heating cooker according to the present disclosure includes a housing that houses a heating coil, a top plate that is disposed on an upper portion of the housing and on which a heating object is placed, a top frame that is disposed on an outer periphery of the top plate and has an operation display unit, and a capacitive touch switch that is disposed on the operation display unit. The operation display unit includes a heating power operation display unit, a heating operation display unit, and a main power supply operation display unit, the capacitive touch switch is disposed in the heating power operation display unit and includes a plurality of capacitive touch switches corresponding to heating power levels indicating degrees of heating strength, the plurality of capacitive touch switches are disposed in a row from left to right in ascending order of the heating power levels, and the heating power operation display unit, the heating operation display unit, and the main power supply operation display unit are disposed in a row in a left-right direction of the front side surface portion of the top frame.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an induction cooker. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a cooking device that includes a main body having multiple heating coils and a substantially rectangular top plate that is provided on top of the main body and on which an object to be heated by the coils is placed.

[0003] The cooking device described in Patent Document 1 includes a large coil, a medium coil, and a small coil, and has a display unit provided on the top plate between the large coil and the front edge of the top plate. Alternatively, the cooking device described in Patent Document 1 has a display unit provided on the top plate between the large coil and the rear edge of the top plate. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-74168 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The cooking device described in Patent Document 1 still has room for improvement in terms of usability.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to solve the above-mentioned problems and to provide an induction heating cooker that can improve usability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An induction heating cooker according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: An induction cooker that is embedded in a kitchen counter, a housing for housing a heating coil; a top plate disposed on an upper portion of the housing and on which an object to be heated is placed; a top frame disposed on the outer periphery of the top plate and having an operation display unit that receives operations from a user; a capacitance type touch switch disposed on the operation display unit; Equipped with the top frame is made of resin and includes a resin frame having the operation display unit, The operation display unit includes: A heat power operation display unit for operating the heat power of the heating coil; a heating operation display unit for operating the heating of the heating coil; a main power supply operation display unit for turning on or off the main power supply of the induction heating cooker; Including, The capacitive touch switch is disposed on the heating power operation display unit and includes a plurality of capacitive touch switches corresponding to heating power levels indicating the degree of heating strength, The plurality of capacitive touch switches are arranged in a row from left to right in order of decreasing heating power level, The thermal power operation display unit, the heating operation display unit, and the main power operation display unit are arranged in a line in the left-right direction on the front side surface of the top frame. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, an induction heating cooker that can improve usability can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an example of an induction heating cooker according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic block diagram showing a main configuration of an induction heating cooker according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic enlarged view showing an example of an operation display unit. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of the induction cooking device of FIG. 3 taken along line AA. [Figure 4B]FIG. 1 is a top view showing an example of the configuration of a capacitive touch switch. [Figure 5] 10 is a timing chart showing an example of control of a heating coil. [Figure 6A] 10A and 10B are partial enlarged views showing an example of the operation of the operation display unit. [Figure 6B] 10A and 10B are partial enlarged views showing an example of the operation of the operation display unit. [Figure 6C] 10A and 10B are partial enlarged views showing an example of the operation of the operation display unit. [Figure 6D] 10A and 10B are partial enlarged views showing an example of the operation of the operation display unit. [Figure 6E] 10A and 10B are partial enlarged views showing an example of the operation of the operation display unit. [Figure 6F] 10A and 10B are partial enlarged views showing an example of the operation of the operation display unit. [Figure 6G] 10A and 10B are partial enlarged views showing an example of the operation of the operation display unit. [Figure 7] 10 is a timing chart showing another example of control of the heating coil. [Figure 8A] 10A and 10B are partial enlarged views showing another example of the operation of the operation display unit. [Figure 8B] 10A and 10B are partial enlarged views showing another example of the operation of the operation display unit. [Figure 9] 10 is a timing chart showing yet another example of control of the heating coil. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of an induction heating cooker according to a first modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram showing the main configuration of an induction heating cooker according to a second modification. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram showing the main configuration of an induction heating cooker according to a third modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, its applications, or its uses. Furthermore, the drawings are schematic, and the ratios of the dimensions and the like do not necessarily correspond to reality.

[0011] It should be noted that, in this specification, terms such as "first," "second," etc. are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood as expressing or implying the relative importance or ranking of technical features. Features qualified as "first" and "second" expressly or imply the inclusion of one or more of such features.

[0012] (Embodiment 1) [Overall configuration] Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an example of an induction heating cooker 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 is a schematic block diagram showing the main configuration of the induction heating cooker 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Note that the XYZ coordinate system shown in the figure is intended to facilitate understanding of the invention and does not limit the invention. The X-axis direction indicates the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction indicates the depth direction, and the Z-axis direction indicates the vertical direction.

[0013] As shown in Fig. 1, the induction heating cooker 1 is a cooker that induction heats a cooking container C that contains an object to be cooked T. In this specification, the cooking container C is described as an example of an object to be heated. The object to be heated is not limited to the cooking container C, and may be any object that can be induction heated.

[0014] As shown in Fig. 1, the induction cooking appliance 1 includes a housing 10, a top plate 20, and a top frame 30. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 2, the induction cooking appliance 1 includes a capacitive touch switch 40, a light-emitting element 41, a sensor 50, and a control unit 60. The induction cooking appliance 1 of this embodiment is a so-called built-in type induction cooking appliance. In the induction cooking appliance 1, the housing 10 is embedded in an opening in a kitchen counter, and the top plate 20 and the top frame 30 are placed on the periphery of the opening.

[0015] <Case> The housing 10 houses each component of the induction heating cooker 1. The housing 10 houses the heating coil 11, the sensor 50, and the control unit 60. For example, the housing 10 has a box-like shape with an open top.

[0016] The heating coil 11 is disposed below the top plate 20 and inductively heats an object to be heated. In this embodiment, three heating coils 11 are disposed inside the housing 10. Note that the number of heating coils 11 is not limited to three. For example, the number of heating coils 11 may be one or more.

[0017] <Top plate> The top plate 20 is disposed on top of the housing 10 and places an object to be heated on it. The top plate 20 is made of, for example, heat-resistant glass. The top plate 20 has a rectangular shape in a plan view. In this specification, "plan view" means viewing from the vertical direction, i.e., the Z-axis direction. Alternatively, "plan view" may mean viewing from the thickness direction of the top plate 20.

[0018] <Top frame> The top frame 30 is disposed on the outer periphery of the top plate 20. The top frame 30 is disposed in front of the top plate 20 in the depth direction (Y-axis direction) in a plan view, and is disposed on both sides of the top plate 20 in the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0019] The top frame 30 includes a resin frame 31 and a metal frame 32. In this embodiment, the resin frame 31 is disposed on the front side of the top plate 20 in the depth direction (Y-axis direction) in a plan view. The metal frames 32 are disposed on both sides of the top plate 20 in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). The two metal frames 32 are disposed so as to sandwich the top plate 20 in the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0020] The resin frame 31 is made of resin and has translucency. "Translucency" means that light can pass through it. The resin frame 31 may be made of a transparent resin material or a translucent resin material. The resin frame 31 also has heat resistance.

[0021] The resin frame 31 may be made of, for example, PC (polycarbonate), PMMA (acrylic), PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PEN (polyethylene naphthate), TPX (polymethylpentene), POR (polyol), PEI (polyimide), etc. Alternatively, the resin frame 31 may be made of, for example, an optical epoxy resin.

[0022] The metal frame 32 is made of metal and may be made of, for example, stainless steel.

[0023] The resin frame 31 includes an operation display unit 33. The operation display unit 33 includes an operation unit through which the user operates the induction cooking device 1, and a display unit that displays the control status of the induction cooking device 1. "Operation of the induction cooking device 1" includes, for example, an operation to start / stop heating of the heating coil 11, an operation to set the heat power of the heating coil 11, i.e., the heating strength, or an operation to turn the main power of the induction cooking device 1 on / off. "Control status of the induction cooking device 1" includes, for example, a heating state, a heating state that has been stopped, the heating strength, and the on / off state of the main power. In this embodiment, the operation display unit 33 is configured such that the operation unit and the display unit are integrated. Furthermore, in this embodiment, three operation display units 33 are provided so that each of the three heating coils 11 can be operated.

[0024] Fig. 3 is a schematic enlarged view showing an example of the operation display unit 33. Fig. 4A is a partial cross-sectional view of the induction heating cooker 1 taken along line AA in Fig. 3. As shown in Figs. 3 and 4A, the operation display unit 33 is provided on the outer surface of the resin frame 31.

[0025] The operation display unit 33 enables operation of the induction cooking appliance 1 by detecting changes in capacitance using a capacitive touch switch 40 (described later). For example, a user operates the induction cooking appliance 1 by touching the operation display unit 33 with a finger. The operation display unit 33 also indicates the control status of the induction cooking appliance 1 by irradiating the translucent resin frame 31 with light from a light-emitting element 41 (described later). For example, while heating is being performed by the heating coil 11, blue light is continuously irradiated onto a predetermined position on the resin frame 31, and while heating is not being performed by the heating coil 11, the emission of blue light is stopped. This allows the user to recognize that heating is being performed when the blue light is visible, and to recognize that heating is stopped when the blue light is not visible.

[0026] The operation display unit 33 includes a heating operation display unit 34, a heating operation display unit 35, and a main power operation display unit 36. The heating operation display unit 34, the heating operation display unit 35, and the main power operation display unit 36 ​​are arranged in a row in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) on the resin frame 31.

[0027] The heating power operation display unit 34 is a unit for operating the heating power of the heating coil 11, i.e., the heating intensity. The heating power operation display unit 34 is a unit for displaying the heating power, i.e., the heating intensity. The heating power operation display unit 34 has multiple heating power operation display units 34a to 34j. In this embodiment, the heating power operation display unit 34 has ten heating power operation display units 34a to 34j. In this specification, the ten heating power operation display units 34a to 34j shown in FIG. 3 may be referred to as the first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a to 34j from left to right.

[0028] The first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a to 34j are arranged in a row in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). In FIG. 3, the first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a to 34j correspond to heating power levels 1 to 10. The "heating power level" indicates the degree of heating strength, and the larger the value, the greater the heating strength of the heating coil 11. Therefore, heating power level 1 indicates the minimum heating strength, and heating power level 10 indicates the maximum heating strength. The user can set the heating power by touching any of the first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a to 34j with a finger. For example, touching the first heating power operation display unit 34a, which is located on the far left, with a finger sets the heating power level of the heating coil 11 to "1." Alternatively, touching the fifth heating power operation display unit 34e with a finger sets the heating power level of the heating coil 11 to "5."

[0029] The heating operation display unit 35 is a part for operating to start or stop heating of the heating coil 11. The user can switch between starting and stopping heating by touching the heating operation display unit 35 with a finger.

[0030] The main power supply operation display unit 36 ​​is a part for operating ON or OFF of the main power supply of the induction heating cooker 1. The user can switch the main power supply between ON and OFF by touching the main power supply operation display unit 36 ​​with a finger.

[0031] Heating operation display unit 34, heating operation display unit 35, and main power operation display unit 36 ​​each have a protrusion that protrudes from resin frame 31. The shapes of the protrusions provided on heating operation display unit 34, heating operation display unit 35, and main power operation display unit 36 ​​may be different. The user operates heating operation display unit 34, heating operation display unit 35, and main power operation display unit 36 ​​by touching the protrusions with their fingers.

[0032] Next, a detailed description will be given of the configuration of the resin frame 31. As shown in Fig. 4A, the resin frame 31 has a first resin frame 37 and a second resin frame .

[0033] The first resin frame 37 is disposed on the lower surface 20b and outer periphery 20c of the top plate 20. The first resin frame 37 extends from the lower surface 20b of the top plate 20 toward the outer periphery 20c, and is bent along the outer periphery 20c of the top plate 20 toward the upper surface 20a of the top plate 20.

[0034] The second resin frame 38 is disposed along and outside the first resin frame 37. That is, the second resin frame 38 extends from the lower surface 20b of the top plate 20 toward the outer periphery 20c of the top plate 20 outside the first resin frame 37, and is bent along the outer periphery 20c of the top plate 20 toward the upper surface 20a of the top plate 20.

[0035] For example, the cross-sectional shape of the first resin frame 37 and the second resin frame 38 is substantially L-shaped. The first resin frame 37 and the second resin frame 38 are bent at an angle of, for example, 15 degrees or more and 90 degrees or less. The first resin frame 37 and the second resin frame 38 are bent at an angle of preferably 25 degrees or more and 75 degrees or less, and more preferably 30 degrees or more and 50 degrees or less.

[0036] In this embodiment, the first resin frame 37 and the second resin frame 38 are bent at an acute angle, forming an inclined surface 39 on the outer surface of the resin frame 31. The inclined surface 39 is inclined with respect to the thickness direction (Z-axis direction) of the top plate 20 at the outer periphery 20c of the top plate 20. The operation display unit 33 is provided on the inclined surface 39. Furthermore, the thickness of the first resin frame 37 is large at the bent portion of the resin frame 31, and in this embodiment, is larger than the thickness of the second resin frame 38. Furthermore, the thickness of the first resin frame 37 decreases toward the upper surface 31a of the resin frame 31. The second resin frame 38 has a substantially constant thickness except for the bent portion. In this way, by adjusting the thickness of the first resin frame 37, it is possible to diffuse light emitted from the light-emitting element 41 so that it is easily visible. Furthermore, by making the thickness of the second resin frame 38 substantially constant, it is possible to improve the accuracy of capacitance detection by the capacitive touch switch 40.

[0037] The upper surface 31a of the resin frame 31 is lower than the upper surface 20a of the top plate 20. That is, the upper surface 31a of the resin frame 31 is disposed between the upper surface 20a and the lower surface 20b of the top plate 20. This makes it possible to avoid contact with the resin frame 31 even when a heated object moves over the top plate 20.

[0038] <Capacitive touch switch> 4A, the capacitive touch switch 40 is disposed on the resin frame 31 of the top frame 30. Specifically, the capacitive touch switch 40 is disposed between the first resin frame 37 and the second resin frame 38. That is, the capacitive touch switch 40 is sandwiched and held between the first resin frame 37 and the second resin frame 38.

[0039] The capacitive touch switch 40 is disposed on the operation display unit 33 of the resin frame 31. Specifically, the capacitive touch switch 40 is disposed at a position overlapping the operation display unit 33 when viewed from the depth direction (Y-axis direction). The capacitive touch switch 40 detects a change in capacitance that occurs on the operation display unit 33. For example, the capacitive touch switch 40 detects a change in capacitance that occurs when a user touches the operation display unit 33 with their finger.

[0040] Information on the detected capacitance is sent to the control unit 60.

[0041] The capacitive touch switch 40 is, for example, a film-type capacitive touch switch. A "film-type capacitive touch switch" has a thin shape like a film. The capacitive touch switch 40 is also flexible. Therefore, the capacitive touch switch 40 can be bent and arranged to fit the shape of the resin frame 31.

[0042] Furthermore, the capacitive touch switch 40 is translucent and transmits light.

[0043] Fig. 4B is a top view showing an example of the configuration of the capacitive touch switch 40. As shown in Fig. 4B, the capacitive touch switch 40 may be composed of a light-transmitting film 40a having light-transmitting properties and a light-shielding portion 40b provided on the light-transmitting film 40a for blocking light.

[0044] The light-transmitting film 40a is provided with a terminal portion 40c. For example, the light-transmitting film 40a is connected to a substrate that controls the capacitive touch switch 40 via the terminal portion 40c.

[0045] The light-shielding portion 40b is formed by printing a light-shielding coating on the light-transmitting film 40a. The light-shielding portion 40b also has an illuminating portion 40d having a shape that indicates the control state or operation of the induction cooking device 1. The illuminating portion 40d is irradiated with light L1 from the light-emitting element 41, thereby illuminating a shape that indicates the control state or operation of the induction cooking device 1 on the operation display unit 33. The shape that indicates the control state or operation of the induction cooking device 1 includes, for example, letters, pictures, patterns, pictograms, etc. The light-shielding portion 40d is formed by printing a light-shielding coating on the light-transmitting film 40a, which resembles a shape that indicates the control state or operation of the induction cooking device 1. The light-shielding portion 40d is composed of a light-transmitting portion and a light-blocking portion, and is irradiated with light L1 from the light-emitting element 41, thereby illuminating a shape that indicates the control state or operation of the induction cooking device 1 on the operation display unit 33.

[0046] The capacitive touch switch 40 is not limited to being made of the light-transmitting film 40a, but may be made of a light-transmitting transparent electrode disposed on the operation display unit 33. The light-shielding portion 40b may be disposed in front of or behind the light-transmitting film 40a. The light-shielding portion 40b is not limited to being formed by printing a light-shielding coating film, but may be made of any material that can block light.

[0047] <Light-emitting element> The light-emitting element 41 is disposed below the top plate 20 and irradiates the resin frame 31 with light L1. The light-emitting element 41 is, for example, an LED. The light-emitting element 41 irradiates light of a plurality of different colors. For example, the light-emitting element 41 irradiates light of red, blue, green, or white.

[0048] The light-emitting element 41 is mounted on the capacitive touch switch 40. Light L1 emitted by the light-emitting element 41 passes through the first resin frame 37, the capacitive touch switch 40, and the second resin frame 38, and is irradiated onto the operation display unit 33. The light L1 emitted from the light-emitting element 41 is diffused at the bending portion of the resin frame 31. At the bending portion of the resin frame 31, the light L1 is refracted at various angles, and is therefore easily diffused. As a result, the light L1 is irradiated onto the portion of the operation display unit 33 that is operated by the user.

[0049] In this embodiment, a plurality of light-emitting elements 41 are arranged in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). The number of light-emitting elements 41 may correspond to the number of heating operation display units 34, heating operation display units 35, and main power operation display units 36. For example, ten light-emitting elements 41 that emit red light may be arranged for ten heating operation display units 34a to 34j, respectively. One light-emitting element 41 that emits blue light may be arranged for one heating operation display unit 35. One light-emitting element 41 that emits white light may be arranged for one main power operation display unit 36. Alternatively, ten light-emitting elements 41 that emit red light and ten light-emitting elements 41 that emit white light may be arranged for ten heating operation display units 34a to 34j, respectively. One light-emitting element 41 that emits blue light and a light-emitting element 41 that emits white light may be arranged for one heating operation display unit 35.

[0050] The control state of the induction heating cooker 1 can be indicated by irradiating the operation display unit 33 with light L1 emitted from the light emitting element 41. For example, the heating operation display unit 35 glowing blue can indicate that heating is being performed by the heating coil 11. Alternatively, the heating power level of the heating coil 11 can be indicated by the number of heating power operation display units 34a to 34j that are glowing red among the first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a to 34j.

[0051] <Sensor> 2, the sensor 50 is a sensor that detects information about the object to be heated. The sensor 50 includes a first sensor 51 and a second sensor 52.

[0052] The first sensor 51 is a temperature sensor that detects temperature information of the object to be heated. The first sensor 51 may be, for example, a thermistor, a thermocouple, or an infrared sensor. As shown in FIG. 1 , the first sensor 51 is disposed below the top plate 20, in the heating region R1 in which the heating coil 11 is disposed. That is, the first sensor 51 detects temperature information of the object to be heated that is placed on the top plate 20 in the heating region R1.

[0053] The second sensor 52 is a sensor that detects information regarding whether or not a heating object is placed in the region RS1 between the resin frame 31 and the heating coil 11 in a plan view. The second sensor 52 is, for example, a temperature sensor, a capacitance sensor, or a brightness sensor. The temperature sensor may be, for example, a thermistor, a thermocouple, an infrared sensor, or a resistance temperature detector. The information regarding whether or not a heating object is placed is, for example, information regarding temperature, capacitance, or brightness.

[0054] The information detected by the sensor 50 is transmitted to the control unit 60 .

[0055] 1, the second sensor 52 is disposed below the top plate 20 and within the housing 10. In addition, the second sensor 52 is disposed between the resin frame 31 and the heating coil 11 in a plan view.

[0056] <Control unit> Returning to FIG. 2 , the control unit 60 controls the heating coil 11 and the light-emitting element 41. The control unit 60 controls the output of the heating coil 11 and the emission of light L1 from the light-emitting element 41 based on capacitance information from the capacitive touch switch 40. Specifically, the control unit 60 controls the heating power of the heating coil 11, the start / stop of heating, or the ON / OFF of the main power supply based on information about changes in capacitance from the capacitive touch switch 40. The control unit 60 also controls the emission of light L1 from the light-emitting element 41 based on information about changes in capacitance from the capacitive touch switch 40.

[0057] For example, the control unit 60 can detect a user's operation on the operation display unit 33 based on whether or not a change in capacitance detected by the capacitance-type touch switch 40 exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0058] For example, when a user touches the heating operation display unit 35 with a finger while heating coil 11 is not performing heating, capacitive touch switch 40 detects a change in capacitance at a position corresponding to heating operation display unit 35. If the change in capacitance detected by capacitive touch switch 40 exceeds a predetermined threshold, control unit 60 supplies current to heating coil 11 to start heating. In addition, control unit 60 turns on light-emitting element 41 corresponding to heating operation display unit 35, and continues to irradiate light onto heating operation display unit 35 while heating coil 11 is performing heating.

[0059] Similarly, when the user touches the heating operation display unit 35 with their finger while heating is being performed by the heating coil 11, the capacitance-type touch switch 40 detects a change in capacitance at a position corresponding to the heating operation display unit 35. If the change in capacitance detected by the capacitance-type touch switch 40 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the control unit 60 stops the supply of current to the heating coil 11 and stops heating. In addition, the control unit 60 turns off the light-emitting element 41 corresponding to the heating operation display unit 35 and stops emitting light to the heating operation display unit 35.

[0060] In this way, the control unit 60 controls the heating coil 11 and the light emitting element 42 in conjunction with each other based on information on the change in capacitance detected by the capacitance touch switch 40.

[0061] Furthermore, the control unit 60 controls the heating coil 11 and the light emitting element 41 based on information about the object to be heated detected by the sensor 50 .

[0062] For example, the control unit 60 controls the heating coil 11 and the light-emitting element 41 based on temperature information detected by the first sensor 51. When the temperature of the object to be heated detected by the first sensor 51 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the control unit 60 may stop heating by the heating coil 11 and blink the light-emitting element 41. Alternatively, when the temperature of the object to be heated detected by the first sensor 51 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the control unit 60 may reduce the output of the heating coil 11 and blink the light-emitting element 41. Alternatively, when the temperature of the object to be heated detected by the first sensor 51 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the control unit 60 may blink the light-emitting element 41 while maintaining the output of the heating coil 11.

[0063] For example, the control unit 60 determines whether or not the object to be heated is between the heating coil 11 and the resin frame 31 based on information detected by the second sensor 52. If the object to be heated is between the heating coil 11 and the resin frame 31, the control unit 60 stops heating of the heating coil 11. The control unit 60 also blinks the plurality of light-emitting elements 41 corresponding to the heating power operation display units 34a to 34j and the heating operation display unit 35. Alternatively, the control unit 60 may blink the plurality of light-emitting elements 41 without stopping heating of the heating coil 11.

[0064] The control unit 60 can be realized by semiconductor elements or the like. The control unit 60 can be configured by, for example, a microcomputer, a CPU, an MPU, a GPU, a DSP, an FPGA, or an ASIC. The functions of the control unit 60 may be configured by hardware alone, or may be realized by combining hardware and software. The control unit 60 realizes predetermined functions by reading data and programs stored in a storage unit such as a memory and performing various arithmetic processing.

[0065] For example, the control unit 60 can be realized by a control circuit including an inverter that controls the output of the heating coil 11, a circuit that controls the light emitting element 41, or the like.

[0066] [Example of induction cooking device operation] An example of the operation of the induction heating cooker 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 5 and FIGS. 6A to 6G.

[0067] Fig. 5 is a timing chart showing an example of control of the heating coil 11. Fig. 5 shows an example in which heating is started, the heating power level is changed to "4", and then the heating power level is changed to "8" and heating is continued. Figs. 6A-6G are partially enlarged views showing an example of the operation of the operation display unit 33. Note that "P1 to P5" in Figs. 5 and 6B-6F indicate the locations and order of operations performed by the user on the operation display unit 33.

[0068] Fig. 6A shows a state before the user operates the operation display unit 33 with a finger. In the example shown in Fig. 6A, the induction heating cooker 1 is not energized. Therefore, light from the light-emitting element 41 is not irradiated onto the heat operation display unit 34, the heating operation display unit 35, and the main power operation display unit 36.

[0069] As shown in FIGS. 6B to 6D, with the induction cooking appliance 1 in a powered state, the user operates the main power operation display unit 36, the heating operation display unit 35, and the heating operation display unit 34 in that order on the operation display unit 33. Specifically, the user touches the main power operation display unit 36, the heating operation display unit 35, and the fourth heating operation display unit 34d in that order with their fingers. The capacitance changes at the locations touched by the user. The capacitance-type touch switch 40 detects the change in capacitance that occurs on the operation display unit 33. Therefore, the control unit 60 can determine which part of the operation display unit 33 has been operated, based on the change in capacitance detected by the capacitance-type touch switch 40.

[0070] Based on the change in capacitance detected by the capacitance-type touch switch 40, the control unit 60 detects an operation P1 on the main power operation display unit 36, an operation P2 on the heating operation display unit 35, and an operation P3 on the fourth heating power operation display unit 34d. As shown in FIG. 5, operations P1 and P2 cause the control unit 60 to turn on the main power of the induction heating cooker 1, start heating of the heating coil 11, and set the heating power level of the heating coil 11 to "6." In the example shown in FIG. 5, the heating start operation was performed before setting the heating power level, so the heating power level is set to "6" immediately after heating starts. Thereafter, operation P3 causes the control unit 60 to set the heating power level of the heating coil 11 to "4."

[0071] 5 and 6B to 6D, an example in which the user operates the main power operation display unit 36, the heating operation display unit 35, and the heating power operation display unit 34 in that order has been described, but this is not limiting. For example, the order of operation P2 on the heating operation display unit 35 and operation P3 on the heating power operation display unit 34 may be reversed.

[0072] The control unit 60 controls the emission of light by the light-emitting element 41 to indicate the control status of the induction heating cooker 1. For example, when the induction heating cooker 1 is in an energized state, the control unit 60 causes the light-emitting element 41 to emit white light LW12, as shown in Fig. 6B, and irradiates the white light LW12 onto the main power supply operation display unit 36. This causes the main power supply operation display unit 36 ​​to glow in white, indicating that the main power supply of the induction heating cooker 1 is in an operable standby state.

[0073] Next, when the main power supply is ON, as shown in Fig. 6C, the control unit 60 causes the light-emitting element 41 to emit white light LW1 to LW11, and irradiates the white light LW1 to LW11 onto the first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a to 34j and the heating operation display unit 35. As a result, the first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a to 34j and the heating operation display unit 35 glow in white, indicating that they are on standby for heating by the heating coil 11. In this state, when the user touches the heating operation display unit 35 (i.e., inputs operation P2), heating begins at heating power level "6."

[0074] While heating is being performed at heating level "6" as shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 60 stops emitting white light LW1-LW6 to the first through sixth heating operation display units 34a-34f and causes the light-emitting element 41 to emit red light LR1-LR6, as shown in FIG. 6D. This causes the red light LR1-LR6 to be emitted to the first through sixth heating operation display units 34a-34f, causing the first through sixth heating operation display units 34a-34f to glow red. The control unit 60 also continues emitting white light LW7-LW10 to the seventh through tenth heating operation display units 34g-34j. This causes the seventh through tenth heating operation display units 34g-34j to glow white. In this way, the control unit 60 indicates that the heating power level is set to "6" by causing the first to sixth heating power operation display units 34a to 34f among the first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a to 34j to light up in red.

[0075] Next, a case where the user performs operation P3 on the fourth heating power operation display section 34d while heating is being performed at heating power level "6" will be described.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 6D, when the user performs an operation P3 of touching the fourth heating power operation display section 34d with a finger, the control section 60 sets the heating power level of the heating coil 11 to "4" as shown in FIG.

[0077] Furthermore, when the control unit 60 detects operation P3, as shown in FIG. 6E, it continues emitting red lights LR1-LR4 to the first to fourth heating operation display units 34a-34d. As a result, the first to fourth heating operation display units 34a-34d glow red. The control unit 60 also stops emitting red lights LR5 and LR6 to the fifth and sixth heating operation display units 34e and 34f, and causes the light-emitting elements 41 to emit white lights LW5 and LW6. The control unit 60 also continues emitting white lights LW7-LW10 to the seventh to tenth heating operation display units 34g-34j. As a result, the white lights LW5-LW10 are irradiated onto the fifth to tenth heating operation display units 34e-34j, causing the fifth to tenth heating operation display units 34e-34j to glow white. In addition, the control unit 60 indicates that the heating power level is set to "4" by causing the first to fourth heating power operation display units 34a to 34d among the first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a to 34j to light up in red.

[0078] Next, a case where the user performs an operation P4 on the eighth heating power operation display section 34h while heating is being performed at heating power level "4" will be described.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 6E, when the user performs an operation P4 of touching the eighth heating power operation display section 34h with a finger, the control section 60 sets the heating power level of the heating coil 11 to "8" as shown in FIG.

[0080] Furthermore, when the control unit 60 detects operation P4, it continues emitting red lights LR1-LR4 to the first to fourth heating power operation display units 34a-34d, as shown in FIG. 6F. Furthermore, the control unit 60 stops emitting white lights LW5-LW8 to the fifth to eighth heating power operation display units 34e-34h and causes the light-emitting element 41 to emit red lights LR5-LR8. As a result, the fifth to eighth heating power operation display units 34e-34h are irradiated with red lights LR5-LR8, causing the fifth to eighth heating power operation display units 34e-34h to glow red. Furthermore, the control unit 60 continues emitting white lights LW9 and LW10 to the ninth and tenth heating power operation display units 34i and 34j. As a result, white lights LW9, LW10 are irradiated onto the ninth and tenth heating power operation display units 34i, 34j, causing the ninth and tenth heating power operation display units 34i, 34j to glow white. In this way, the control unit 60 indicates that the heating power level is set to "8" by causing the first to eighth heating power operation display units 34a-34h of the first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a-34j to glow red.

[0081] Next, a case where the user performs operation P5 on the heating operation display unit 35 while heating is being performed at heat level "8" will be described.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 6F, when the user performs an operation P5 of touching the heating operation display unit 35 with a finger, the control unit 60 stops heating of the heating coil 11 as shown in FIG.

[0083] Furthermore, when the control unit 60 detects operation P5, as shown in Fig. 6G, it stops emitting blue light LB1 to the heating operation display unit 35 and red light LR1 to LR8 to the first to eighth heating power operation display units 34a to 34h. Next, the control unit 60 causes the light-emitting element 41 to emit white light LW11 to the heating operation display unit 35, and causes the light-emitting element 41 to emit white light LW1 to LW10 to the first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a to 34j. This causes the heating power operation display unit 34 and the heating operation display unit 35 to glow in white, indicating that heating has stopped and the induction heating cooker 1 is in standby mode.

[0084] 5 illustrates an example in which the heating level is set to "0" when the heating stop operation is performed, but this is not limiting. For example, the control unit 60 may store setting information for the heating level before heating was stopped in the storage unit. When heating is resumed, the control unit 60 may automatically set the heating level based on the setting information stored in the storage unit.

[0085] [Another example of induction cooker operation] Another example of the operation of the induction heating cooker 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 7 and Figs. 8A-8B.

[0086] Fig. 7 is a timing chart showing another example of control of the heating coil 11. Fig. 7 shows an example of control of the heating coil 11 based on the temperature detected by the first sensor 51. Figs. 8A and 8B are partially enlarged views showing an example of the operation of the operation display unit 33. Note that "P1 to P3" in Fig. 7 are the same as operations P1 to P3 shown in Fig. 5.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 7, when the temperature detected by the first sensor 51 exceeds a predetermined threshold value S1 while heating is being performed by the heating coil 11, the control unit 60 causes the heating coil 11 to stop heating.

[0088] 8A and 8B, the control unit 60 blinks the plurality of light-emitting elements 41 that illuminate the first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a to 34j, the heating operation display unit 35, and the main power operation display unit 36. That is, the control unit 60 alternately displays the display shown in FIG. 8A and the display shown in FIG. 8B.

[0089] In this way, when an abnormal state such as abnormal heat generation occurs, the first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a to 34j, the heating operation display unit 35, and the main power operation display unit 36 ​​flash. This allows the user to be notified of an error or warning indicating an abnormal state.

[0090] Another example of the operation of the induction heating cooker 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0091] Fig. 9 is a timing chart showing yet another example of control of the heating coil 11. Fig. 9 shows an example of control of the heating coil 11 based on information detected by the second sensor 52. In the example shown in Fig. 9, the second sensor 52 is a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the region RS1 between the heating coil 11 and the resin frame 31.

[0092] 9, when the temperature detected by the second sensor 52 exceeds a predetermined threshold value S2 while heating is being performed by the heating coil 11, the control unit 60 determines that an object to be heated is placed in the region RS1 between the heating coil 11 and the resin frame 31. In this case, too, the control unit 60 may blink the plurality of light-emitting elements 41 that irradiate the first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a to 34j, the heating operation display unit 35, and the main power operation display unit 36, as shown in FIGS.

[0093] In another example of the operation of the induction heating cooker 1, an example has been described in which the plurality of light-emitting elements 41 that irradiate the first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a to 34j, the heating operation display unit 35, and the main power operation display unit 36 ​​are blinked, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 60 may stagger the timing of blinking of the plurality of light-emitting elements 41 that irradiate the first to tenth heating power operation display units 34a to 34j, the heating operation display unit 35, and the main power operation display unit 36.

[0094] [effect] According to the induction heating cooker 1 according to the first embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0095] The induction heating cooker 1 is an induction heating cooker that is embedded in a kitchen counter and includes a housing 10, a top plate 20, a top frame 30, and a capacitive touch switch 40. The housing 10 houses a heating coil 11. The top plate 20 is disposed on the upper part of the housing 10 and an object to be heated is placed on it. The top frame 30 is disposed on the outer periphery of the top plate 20. The capacitive touch switch 40 is disposed on the top frame 30. The top frame 30 includes a resin frame 31 made of resin, and the capacitive touch switch 40 is disposed on the resin frame 31.

[0096] This configuration can improve usability. For example, the induction heating cooker 1 can be operated by the capacitance-type touch switch 40 arranged on the top frame 30. Therefore, the user can operate the induction heating cooker 1 by touching the top frame 30.

[0097] Furthermore, since the induction heating cooker 1 can be operated from the top frame 30, the heating area can be expanded compared to when an operation display unit is provided on the top plate 20. Alternatively, a space for the user to cook can be created on the top plate 20.

[0098] The induction cooking appliance 1 further includes a light-emitting element 41 that is disposed below the top plate 20 and irradiates light onto the resin frame 31, and the resin frame 31 is translucent. With this configuration, light L1 emitted from the light-emitting element 41 can pass through the resin frame 31. As a result, the light L1 from the light-emitting element 41 that passes through the resin frame 31 can indicate, for example, the control state of the induction cooking appliance 1.

[0099] The resin frame 31 includes an operation display unit 33 that accepts operations from the user. The capacitance type touch switch 40 is disposed on the operation display unit 33, and light L1 from the light emitting element 41 is irradiated onto the operation display unit 33. This configuration improves the operability of the induction heating cooker 1 and makes it possible to easily inform the user of the control status of the induction heating cooker 1. As a result, usability can be further improved.

[0100] The induction heating cooker 1 further includes a control unit 60 that controls the heating coil 11 and the light-emitting element 41. The capacitance-type touch switch 40 detects changes in the capacitance of the operation display unit 33. The control unit 60 controls the heating of the heating coil 11 and the emission of light L1 from the light-emitting element 41 based on the detected change in capacitance. This configuration makes it possible to control the heating of the heating coil 11 and the emission of light from the light-emitting element 41 based on the change in capacitance, improving operability.

[0101] The control unit 60 controls the heating strength or start / stop of heating of the heating coil 11 based on the detected change in capacitance, and controls the emission of light L1 from the light-emitting element 41 in response to the control of the heating coil 11. With this configuration, the heating of the heating coil 11 and the emission of light L1 from the light-emitting element 41 can be controlled in conjunction with each other based on the change in capacitance generated in the operation display unit 33. This further improves usability.

[0102] The induction cooking appliance 1 further includes a sensor 50 that detects information about the object to be heated. The control unit 60 controls the emission of light L1 from the light-emitting element 41 based on the information about the object to be heated detected by the sensor 50. With this configuration, the control unit 60 can control the light-emitting element 41 based on the information detected by the sensor 50. For example, if the sensor 50 detects an abnormality, the control unit 60 can indicate a warning or error state by changing the emission pattern of light L1 from the light-emitting element 41.

[0103] The sensor 50 is disposed in the heating region R1 heated by the heating coil 11 and includes a first sensor 51 that detects temperature information of the object to be heated. The control unit 60 controls the emission of light L1 from the light-emitting element 41 based on the temperature information detected by the first sensor 51. With this configuration, for example, when abnormal heat generation of the object to be heated is detected, the control unit 60 can notify the user of a warning or error by blinking the light-emitting element 41.

[0104] The sensor 50 includes a second sensor 52 that detects information regarding whether or not a heating object is placed in the region RS1 between the resin frame 31 and the heating coil 11 in a plan view. The control unit 60 controls the emission of light L1 from the light-emitting element 41 based on the information detected by the second sensor 52. With this configuration, for example, when a heating object is placed in the region RS1 between the resin frame 31 and the heating coil 11, the control unit 60 can indicate a warning or error state by changing the emission pattern of light L1 from the light-emitting element 41. This makes it possible to prevent a heating object that has become too hot from being placed near the resin frame 31.

[0105] The capacitance type touch switch 40 is a film type capacitance type touch switch. This configuration makes it easy to arrange the capacitance type touch switch 40 on the top frame 30 and also makes it easy to detect changes in capacitance.

[0106] The resin frame 31 includes a first resin frame 37 and a second resin frame 38. The first resin frame 37 is arranged on the lower surface 20b and outer periphery 20c of the top plate 20. The second resin frame 38 is arranged outside the first resin frame 37 and along the first resin frame 37. The capacitive touch switch 40 is arranged between the first resin frame 37 and the second resin frame 38. This configuration makes it easy to arrange the capacitive touch switch 40 on the resin frame 31 and makes it easier to detect changes in capacitance.

[0107] The light emitting element 41 is mounted on the capacitance touch switch 40 and irradiates light L1 onto the resin frame 31. With this configuration, the board for controlling the light emitting element 41 can be omitted, making it possible to make the device more compact.

[0108] The top plate 20 has a rectangular shape extending in the depth direction (Y-axis direction) and the left-right direction (X-axis direction) in a plan view. The top frame 30 includes a metal frame 32 made of metal. The resin frame 31 is disposed on the front side of the top plate 20 in the depth direction (Y-axis direction) in a plan view, and the metal frames 32 are disposed on both sides of the top plate 20 in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) in a plan view. With this configuration, the induction cooking appliance 1 can be operated from the front side of the top plate 20 in the depth direction, improving operability. Furthermore, by disposing the metal frames 32 on both sides of the top plate 20 in the left-right direction, the strength of both sides of the top plate 20 in the left-right direction can be ensured.

[0109] An upper surface 31a of the resin frame 31 is lower than an upper surface 20a of the top plate 20. With this configuration, even if the object to be heated moves on the top plate 20 and comes to a position where the resin frame 31 is arranged, the resin frame 31 can be prevented from coming into contact with the object to be heated.

[0110] The resin frame 31 has an inclined surface 39 that is inclined with respect to the thickness direction (Z-axis direction) of the top plate 20 at the outer periphery 20c of the top plate 20. This configuration makes it easier for the user to touch the resin frame 31, further improving usability. In addition, when light L1 from the light-emitting element 41 is irradiated onto the resin frame 31 to indicate the control state of the induction heating cooker 1, the user can easily see the light L1 irradiated onto the resin frame 31.

[0111] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the resin frame 31 is disposed on the front side of the top plate 20 in the depth direction (Y-axis direction) in a plan view, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the resin frame 31 may be disposed on one or both sides of the top plate 20 in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) in a plan view.

[0112] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the operation and display unit 33 is configured as an integrated unit, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the operation and display unit 33 may be separate units.

[0113] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the capacitive touch switch 40 is a film type, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the capacitive touch switch 40 may be formed of a substrate.

[0114] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the light-emitting element 41 is mounted on the capacitive touch switch 40, but the present invention is not limited to this. The light-emitting element 41 does not have to be mounted on the capacitive touch switch 40.

[0115] In this embodiment, the light emitting element 41 emits red light, blue light, or white light, but the light emitting element 41 is not limited to this. The color of the light emitted by the light emitting element 41 may be designed arbitrarily.

[0116] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the light emitting element 41 blinks when an abnormal state such as abnormal heat generation is detected, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when an abnormal state is detected, the color of the light emitted by the light emitting element 41 may be changed.

[0117] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the control unit 60 stops heating of the heating coil 11 when an abnormal state is detected, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when an abnormal state is detected, the control unit 60 may reduce the output of the heating coil 11.

[0118] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the control unit 60 controls the emission of light from the light-emitting element 41 when an abnormal state is detected, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the heating power of the object to be heated reaches a set heating power level, the control unit 60 may change the color of light emitted from the light-emitting element 41 or may stop the emission of light from the light-emitting element 41. Alternatively, the control unit 60 may control the emission of light L1 from the light-emitting element 41 when a malfunction of the induction heating cooker 1 is detected.

[0119] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the operation display unit 33 is provided only on the resin frame 31 of the top frame 30, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a separate operation display unit capable of performing more detailed operations or displays than the operation display unit 33 may be provided on the housing 10. Alternatively, a separate operation display unit capable of performing more detailed operations or displays may be provided on the top plate 20.

[0120] <Variation 1> Fig. 10 is a schematic perspective view of an induction heating cooker 1A of Modification 1. As shown in Fig. 10, the induction heating cooker 1A of Modification 1 differs from the induction heating cooker 1 of Embodiment 1 in that it further includes an operation display unit 70 provided on the housing 10. Other configurations of the induction heating cooker 1A of Modification 1 are the same as those of the induction heating cooker 1 of Embodiment 1.

[0121] Compared to the operation display unit 33 of the resin frame 31, the operation display unit 70 displays detailed operations and detailed control states of the heating coil 11. For example, the operation display unit 70 operates or displays at least one of the heating setting of the heating coil 11, the timer, or the automatic menu.

[0122] The operation display unit 70 includes a plurality of operation buttons and a display. The plurality of operation buttons are an input device for performing detailed control of the induction heating cooker 1A. The display shows information such as the heating state of the heating coil 11 and heating settings.

[0123] In this way, the induction heating cooker 1A may be provided with the operation display unit 70 in addition to the resin frame 31 in order to perform detailed operations or displays.

[0124] <Variation 2> Fig. 11 is a schematic block diagram showing the main configuration of an induction heating cooker 1B of Modification 2. As shown in Fig. 11, the induction heating cooker 1B of Modification 2 differs from the induction heating cooker 1 of Embodiment 1 in that it further includes a third sensor 53. The other configurations of the induction heating cooker 1B of Modification 2 are the same as those of the induction heating cooker 1 of Embodiment 1.

[0125] The third sensor 53 detects information regarding the user's proximity to the operation display unit 33. The third sensor 53 is a human presence sensor that detects the user's proximity to the operation display unit 33 in a non-contact manner, and may be, for example, an infrared sensor, a capacitance sensor, or an ultrasonic sensor. The information regarding the user's proximity to the operation display unit 33 may be, for example, information regarding temperature, capacitance, or distance. The third sensor 53 transmits the information regarding the user's proximity to the operation display unit 33 to the control unit 60.

[0126] In the second modification, the control unit 60 controls the emission of light L1 from the light-emitting element 41 based on information about the user's proximity to the operation display unit 33 detected by the third sensor 53. Specifically, the control unit 60 determines whether the user is in proximity to the operation display unit 33 based on the information detected by the third sensor 53. When the user is in proximity to the operation display unit 33, the control unit 60 energizes the induction heating cooker 1B, causes the light-emitting element 41 to emit white light LW12, and irradiates the white light LW12 onto the main power operation display unit 36. When the user is not in proximity to the operation display unit 33, the control unit 60 does not energize the induction heating cooker 1B, and does not cause the light-emitting element 41 to emit white light LW12.

[0127] With this configuration, when the third sensor 53 detects that the user is approaching the operation display unit 33, for example, the main power operation display unit 36 ​​is illuminated to prompt the user to start operation. Furthermore, when the user is not approaching the operation display unit 33, the light emitting element 41 stops emitting light L1, thereby reducing power consumption.

[0128] <Variation 3> Fig. 12 is a schematic block diagram showing the main configuration of an induction heating cooker 1C of Modification 3. As shown in Fig. 12, the induction heating cooker 1C of Modification 3 differs from the induction heating cooker 1 of Embodiment 1 in that it further includes a communication unit 80. The other configurations of the induction heating cooker 1C of Modification 3 are the same as those of the induction heating cooker 1 of Embodiment 1.

[0129] The communication unit 80 performs short-range wireless communication with a mobile communication device 2 carried by a user. The mobile communication device 2 is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet PC, or a remote controller. The communication unit 80 performs short-range wireless communication with the mobile communication device 2 via, for example, infrared communication, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0130] In Modification 3, the control unit 60 determines whether the communication unit 80 is performing short-range wireless communication with the mobile communication device 2. The control unit 60 controls the emission of light L1 from the light-emitting element 41 based on the determination result of whether the communication unit 80 is performing short-range wireless communication with the mobile communication device 2. For example, when the communication unit 80 is performing short-range wireless communication with the mobile communication device 2, the control unit 60 determines that the user is close to the operation display unit 33, and energizes the induction heating cooker 1C, causes the light-emitting element 41 to emit white light LW12, and emits the white light LW12 onto the main power operation display unit 36. When the communication unit 80 is not performing short-range wireless communication with the mobile communication device 2, the control unit 60 determines that the user is not close to the operation display unit 33, and does not energize the induction heating cooker 1C or cause the light-emitting element 41 to emit white light LW12.

[0131] With this configuration, when the communication unit 80 is in short-range wireless communication with the mobile communication device 2, the control unit 60 can, for example, light up the main power operation display unit 36 ​​to prompt the user to start operation. Furthermore, when the communication unit 80 is not in short-range wireless communication with the mobile communication device 2, the control unit 60 stops the emission of light L1 from the light-emitting element 41, thereby reducing power consumption.

[0132] As described above, the above embodiment has been described as an example of the technology disclosed in the present application. However, the technology in the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can be applied to embodiments in which modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. are made as appropriate.

[0133] Although the present disclosure has been fully described in connection with the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and such changes and modifications are to be understood as being included within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims unless they depart therefrom.

[0134] (Outline of the embodiment) (1) The induction heating cooker of the present disclosure is an induction heating cooker that is embedded in a kitchen counter and includes a housing that houses a heating coil, a top plate that is arranged on top of the housing and on which an object to be heated is placed, a top frame that is arranged on the outer periphery of the top plate, and a capacitive touch switch that is arranged on the top frame, wherein the top frame includes a resin frame made of resin, and the capacitive touch switch is arranged on the resin frame.

[0135] (2) The induction cooking device of (1) may further include a light-emitting element disposed below the top plate for irradiating the resin frame with light, and the resin frame may be translucent.

[0136] (3) In the induction heating cooker of (2), the resin frame may include an operation display unit that accepts operations from the user, the capacitive touch switch may be arranged on the operation display unit, and the light from the light-emitting element may be irradiated onto the operation display unit.

[0137] (4) The induction heating cooker of (2) or (3) may further include a control unit that controls the heating coil and the light-emitting element, and the capacitive touch switch may detect a change in the capacitance of the operation display unit, and the control unit may control the heating of the heating coil and the irradiation of light from the light-emitting element based on the detected change in capacitance.

[0138] (5) In the induction heating cooker of (4), the control unit may control the heating strength of the heating coil or the start / stop of heating based on the detected change in capacitance, and may control the irradiation of light from the light-emitting element in conjunction with the control of the heating coil.

[0139] (6) The induction heating cooker of (2) or (3) may further include a sensor that detects information about the object to be heated, and a control unit that controls the irradiation of light from the light-emitting element based on the information about the object to be heated detected by the sensor.

[0140] (7) In the induction heating cooker of (6), the sensor may include a first sensor arranged in a heating area heated by a heating coil and detecting temperature information of the object to be heated, and the control unit may control the irradiation of light from the light-emitting element based on the temperature information detected by the first sensor.

[0141] (8) In the induction heating cooker of (6) or (7), the sensor may include a second sensor that detects information regarding whether or not an object to be heated is placed in the area between the resin frame and the heating coil in a planar view, and the control unit may control the irradiation of light from the light-emitting element based on the information detected by the second sensor.

[0142] (9) The induction heating cooker of (2) or (3) may further include a control unit that controls the heating coil and the light-emitting element, and the control unit may control the emission of light from the light-emitting element when a malfunction of the induction heating cooker is detected.

[0143] (10) The induction heating cooker of (2) or (3) may further include a third sensor that detects information regarding the user's proximity to the operation display unit, and a control unit that controls the emission of light from the light-emitting element based on the information regarding the user's proximity to the operation display unit detected by the third sensor.

[0144] (11) The induction heating cooker of (2) or (3) may further include a communication unit that performs short-range wireless communication with a mobile communication device carried by a user, and a control unit that determines whether the communication unit is performing short-range wireless communication with the mobile communication device and controls the emission of light from the light-emitting element based on the determination result.

[0145] (12) In the induction cooking device according to any one of (1) to (11), the capacitance-type touch switch may be a film-type capacitance-type touch switch.

[0146] (13) In the induction cooking device of (3), the capacitive touch switch may be disposed on the operation display unit and include a transparent electrode having translucency.

[0147] (14) In the induction cooking device of (3), the capacitive touch switch may include a light-transmitting film having light-transmitting properties and a light-shielding portion provided on the light-transmitting film for blocking light. The light-shielding portion may have a shape indicating the control state or operation of the induction cooking device, and may have an illumination portion that illuminates the shape on the operation display portion by being illuminated by a light-emitting element.

[0148] (15) In any of the induction heating cookers (12) to (14), the resin frame may include a first resin frame arranged on the underside and outer periphery of the top plate, and a second resin frame arranged outside the first resin frame and along the first resin frame, and the capacitive touch switch may be arranged between the first resin frame and the second resin frame.

[0149] (16) In the induction cooking device of any one of (12) to (15), a light-emitting element may be mounted on the capacitive touch switch and irradiate the resin frame with light, and the resin frame may be translucent.

[0150] (17) In any of the induction heating cookers (1) to (16), the top plate may have a rectangular shape having a depth direction and a left-right direction in a plan view, the top frame may include a metal frame made of metal, the resin frame may be arranged on the front side of the top plate in the depth direction in a plan view, and the metal frame may be arranged on both sides of the top plate in the left-right direction in a plan view.

[0151] (18) In the induction cooking device of any one of (1) to (17), the upper surface of the resin frame may be lower than the upper surface of the top plate.

[0152] (19) In the induction cooking device according to any one of (1) to (18), the resin frame may have an inclined surface on the outer periphery of the top plate that is inclined with respect to the thickness direction of the top plate.

[0153] (20) Any of the induction heating cookers (1) to (19) may further include an operation and display unit provided on the housing or the top plate, for operating or displaying at least one of the heating settings of the heating coil, the timer, or the automatic menu. [Industrial Applicability]

[0154] The induction heating cooker of the present disclosure is applicable to a heating cooker that induction heats an object to be heated. [Explanation of symbols]

[0155] 1,1A,1B,1C induction heating cooker 2. Mobile communication devices 10. Cabinet 11 Heating coil 20 Top Plate 20a top surface 20b Bottom side 20c outer circumference 30 Top Frame 31 Resin frame 31a Top surface 32 Metal Frame 33 Operation display section 34 Firepower operation display section 35 Heating operation display section 36 Main power operation display section 37 First resin frame 38 Second resin frame 40 Capacitive Touch Switch 40a Translucent film 40b Light shielding part 40c terminal section 40d lighting section 41 Light-emitting element 50 sensors 51 First Sensor 52 Second Sensor 53 Third Sensor 60 Control Unit 70 Operation display section 80 Communications Department L1 light LW1~LW12 White light LR1~LR10 Red light LB1 blue light

Claims

1. An induction cooker that is embedded in a kitchen counter, a housing for housing a heating coil; a top plate disposed on an upper portion of the housing and on which an object to be heated is placed; a top frame disposed on the outer periphery of the top plate and having an operation display unit that receives operations from a user; a capacitance type touch switch disposed on the operation display unit; Equipped with the top frame is made of resin and includes a resin frame having the operation display unit, The operation display unit includes: A heat power operation display unit for operating the heat power of the heating coil; a heating operation display unit for operating the heating of the heating coil; a main power supply operation display unit for turning on or off the main power supply of the induction heating cooker; Including, The capacitive touch switch is disposed on the heating power operation display unit and includes a plurality of capacitive touch switches corresponding to heating power levels indicating the degree of heating strength, The plurality of capacitive touch switches are arranged in a row from left to right in order of decreasing heating power level, The heating power operation display unit, the heating operation display unit, and the main power operation display unit are arranged in a row in the left-right direction of the front side surface of the top frame. Induction heating cooker.

2. a light emitting element disposed below the top plate and configured to irradiate the resin frame with light; The resin frame is translucent. The induction heating cooker according to claim 1 .

3. The light from the light-emitting element is irradiated onto the operation display unit. The induction heating cooker according to claim 2.

4. a control unit that controls the heating coil and the light-emitting element, the capacitance type touch switch detects a change in capacitance of the operation display unit; The control unit controls heating of the heating coil and irradiation of the light from the light-emitting element based on the detected change in capacitance. The induction heating cooker according to claim 3.

5. The control unit Controlling the heating strength or start / stop of heating of the heating coil based on the detected change in capacitance; controlling the light emission of the light emitting element in conjunction with the control of the heating coil; 5. The induction heating cooker according to claim 4.

6. a sensor for detecting information about the object to be heated; a control unit that controls the light emission of the light emitting element based on information about the object to be heated detected by the sensor; Further provided with 4. The induction heating cooker according to claim 2 or 3.

7. the sensor includes a first sensor disposed in a heating region heated by the heating coil and configured to detect temperature information of the object to be heated; the control unit controls the light emission of the light-emitting element based on the temperature information detected by the first sensor.

7. The induction heating cooker according to claim 6.

8. the sensor includes a second sensor that detects information regarding whether the object to be heated is placed in a region between the resin frame and the heating coil in a plan view, The control unit controls the emission of the light from the light-emitting element based on the information detected by the second sensor.

7. The induction heating cooker according to claim 6.

9. a control unit that controls the heating coil and the light-emitting element, The control unit controls the emission of the light from the light-emitting element when a failure of the induction heating cooker is detected.

4. The induction heating cooker according to claim 2 or 3.

10. a third sensor that detects information relating to the user's proximity to the operation display unit; a control unit that controls the emission of light from the light-emitting element based on information regarding the user's proximity to the operation display unit detected by the third sensor; Further provided with 4. The induction heating cooker according to claim 2 or 3.

11. a communication unit that communicates with a mobile communication device carried by a user via short-range wireless communication; a control unit that determines whether the communication unit is in short-range wireless communication with the mobile communication device and controls the light emission of the light-emitting element based on the determination result; Further provided with 4. The induction heating cooker according to claim 2 or 3.

12. The capacitive touch switch is a film-type capacitive touch switch. The induction heating cooker according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

13. The capacitive touch switch is disposed on the operation display unit and includes a transparent electrode having translucency. The induction heating cooker according to claim 3.

14. The capacitive touch switch includes a light-transmitting film having light-transmitting properties, and a light-shielding portion provided on the light-transmitting film and blocking light, The light-shielding portion has a shape that indicates a control state or operation of the induction cooking appliance, and has an illumination portion that is irradiated by the light-emitting element to illuminate the shape on the operation display portion. The induction heating cooker according to claim 3.

15. a light-emitting element mounted on the capacitive touch switch and configured to irradiate the resin frame with light; The resin frame is translucent. The induction heating cooker according to claim 10.

16. the top plate has a rectangular shape having a depth direction and a left-right direction in a plan view, The top frame includes a metal frame made of metal, the resin frame is disposed on a front side of the top plate in the depth direction in a plan view, the metal frames are disposed on both sides of the top plate in the left-right direction in a plan view; The induction heating cooker according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

17. an upper surface of the resin frame being lower than an upper surface of the top plate; The induction heating cooker according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

18. the resin frame has an inclined surface inclined with respect to the thickness direction of the top plate on the outer periphery of the top plate; The induction heating cooker according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

19. Further, the heating device further includes another operation and display unit provided on the housing or the top plate, which operates or displays at least one of a heating setting of the heating coil, a timer, or an automatic menu. The induction heating cooker according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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