Heating Regulator

Abstract

To provide a cooking appliance that minimizes the leakage of electromagnetic waves outside the heating chamber. [Solution] The heating appliance comprises a heating chamber 2, an electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6, and a connecting part 60. The heating chamber 2 has a panel member 3 that surrounds an internal space capable of accommodating an object to be heated, and heats the object using electromagnetic waves. The electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 closes an opening 310 formed in a part of the panel member 3. The connecting part 60 is located on the panel member 3 and electrically connects the metal mesh 63 of the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cooking heater.

Background Art

[0002] As related art, cooking heaters such as microwave ovens are known, which irradiate electromagnetic waves onto an object to be heated (food) in a heating chamber to heat the object to be heated (for example, see Patent Document 1). The cooking heater according to the related art includes an imaging device (camera) that images (photographs) the object to be heated in the heating chamber in order to heat the object to be heated well.

[0003] The imaging device is disposed inside a door that opens and closes an opening provided on the front side of the heating chamber. The door is provided with an inner door glass disposed on the inner side of the door and an outer door glass disposed on the outer side of the door. The imaging device is fixed to a frame disposed at the upper edge of the door, and images the inside of the heating chamber through a transparent electromagnetic wave shielding glass used as the inner door glass through a photographing hole formed at a position facing the inside of the heating chamber.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the configuration of the related art described above, since the electromagnetic wave shielding glass is provided on the door and is in an electrically floating state, the electromagnetic wave shielding performance by the electromagnetic wave shielding glass is not sufficient, and in some cases, electromagnetic waves may leak outside the heating chamber through the opening including the photographing hole.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a cooking heater in which electromagnetic waves are less likely to leak outside the heating chamber.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] A heating appliance according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a heating chamber, electromagnetic wave shielding glass, and a connecting part. The heating chamber has a panel member surrounding an internal space capable of accommodating an object to be heated, and heats the object using electromagnetic waves. The electromagnetic wave shielding glass closes an opening formed in a part of the panel member. The connecting part is located on the panel member and electrically connects the metal mesh of the electromagnetic wave shielding glass. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide a cooking appliance that is less likely to leak electromagnetic waves outside the heating chamber. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a cooking appliance according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the main part of the heating appliance according to Embodiment 1, viewed from diagonally below. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of the main part of the heating appliance according to Embodiment 1, viewed from diagonally above. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of the main parts of the heating appliance according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the main parts of the heating appliance according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the main parts of the heating appliance according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the main part of the heating appliance according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the main parts of the heating appliance according to Embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A1-A1 in Figure 7. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the attached drawings. The following embodiments are examples that embody this disclosure and are not intended to limit the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0011] (Embodiment 1) [1] Overall overview First, an overview of the heating appliance 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 1.

[0012] The heating appliance 100 according to this embodiment heats, for example, ingredients, food, beverages, or various other objects to be heated. The heating appliance 100 heats the objects to be heated in the heating chamber 2 by irradiating them with electromagnetic waves, for example, like a microwave oven. The heating appliance 100 only needs to have the function of heating objects using electromagnetic waves, and may also have, for example, a grill function, an oven function that heats by convection heat, and / or a steam function that heats by steam.

[0013] In this disclosure, "electromagnetic waves" refers to a physical phenomenon in which electromagnetic energy propagates through space while vibrating, and includes radio waves and light. The heating cooker 100, for example, irradiates the object to be heated in the heating chamber 2 with microwaves, which are electromagnetic waves of 2.45 MHz. As a result, the electromagnetic waves (microwaves) vibrate water molecules, etc., in the object to be heated, causing the temperature of the entire object to rise.

[0014] There are two types of this type of heating appliance 100: "flat table type" and "turntable type". The flat table type heating appliance has an antenna located below the bottom of the heating chamber, and by rotating the antenna and irradiating electromagnetic waves into the heating chamber from the antenna, the electromagnetic waves are efficiently diffused within the heating chamber and the food to be heated is heated evenly. The turntable type heating appliance has a turntable inside the heating chamber for placing the food to be heated, and by rotating the turntable and irradiating electromagnetic waves into the heating chamber from a fixed antenna, the food to be heated on the turntable is heated evenly. In this embodiment, as an example, the heating appliance 100 is assumed to be a flat table type microwave oven.

[0015] The heating cooker 100 is an electrical device that operates by receiving power supply from an electric power system (AC power supply). That is, the heating cooker 100 operates to irradiate electromagnetic waves to the object to be heated by receiving power supply, thereby heating the object to be heated.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1, the heating cooker 100 is used in a state of being placed on an installation surface X1 composed of, for example, a shelf or a counter in a house. The heating cooker 100 stands on the installation surface X1 in a state of being placed on the installation surface X1. That is, the heating cooker 100 according to the present embodiment is a self-standing and portable device, and a user can install the heating cooker 100 at an arbitrary position on the installation surface X1.

[0017] In the present embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the vertical direction in a state where the heating cooker 100 can be used is defined as the vertical direction D1. Further, with reference to the direction when the heating cooker 100 is viewed from the front, the left-right direction D2 is defined, and the front-rear direction D3 is defined with the front side of the heating cooker 100 as the front and the rear side as the rear. However, these directions are not intended to limit the use direction (direction during use) of the heating cooker 100.

[0018] The heating cooker 100 includes a heating chamber 2 capable of accommodating an object to be heated and a heating source for heating the object to be heated. The heating source irradiates electromagnetic waves to the space (the space Sp1 inside the chamber) inside the heating chamber 2, thereby heating the object to be heated accommodated in the heating chamber 2.

[0019] In the present embodiment, the heating chamber 2 has a hollow rectangular parallelepiped shape and includes a box body 21 and a door body 22. The box body 21 is formed in a box shape with one surface (the front surface in the present embodiment) open. The door body 22 is attached to the box body 21 in a state where the opening surface (the front surface in the present embodiment) of the box body 21 can be opened and closed.

[0020] Here, the door body 22 is supported by a support part (hinge) provided at the lower front side of the box body 21, allowing it to be opened and closed relative to the box body 21. The door body 22 is in the open position (see Figure 1) when its upper part tilts forward, and in the closed position when it stands upright towards the rear. Furthermore, the door body 22 has a door window 221 that allows the inside of the heating chamber 2 (internal space Sp1) to be viewed through the door body 22, and a handle 222 that can be grasped by the user.

[0021] The door window 221 includes a double-pane glass structure consisting of an inner glass facing the inside of the door body 22 (internal space Sp1) and an outer glass facing the outside of the door body 22. The door window 221 has perforated metal, which is a metal plate (or metal sheet) with numerous holes. The presence of perforated metal prevents electromagnetic waves from leaking outside the heating chamber 2 through the door window 221.

[0022] As shown in Figure 1, when the door 22 is open (open position), the internal space Sp1 inside the heating chamber 2 is exposed from the front of the box 21, allowing objects to be heated to be placed in and out of the heating chamber 2. On the other hand, when the door 22 is closed (closed position), the internal space Sp1 inside the heating chamber 2 is sealed, allowing objects to be heated inside the heating chamber 2 to be heated.

[0023] Therefore, the user first opens the door 22, places the object to be heated into the heating chamber 2, and then closes the door 22. In this state, the object to be heated is heated by irradiating it with electromagnetic waves from the heating source into the heating chamber 2. After the object has been heated, the user opens the door 22 and removes the object from the heating chamber 2.

[0024] Here, the heating chamber 2 has panel members 3 surrounding the internal space Sp1. The panel members 3 are components that make up the inner surface (inner surface) of the heating chamber 2. The inner surface of the heating chamber 2 includes the top surface, bottom surface, left side, right side, back, and front of the internal space Sp1. In other words, the panel members 3 are provided in each part of the box body 21 and door body 22 that face the internal space Sp1.

[0025] In this embodiment, as an example, as shown in Figure 1, the box body 21 includes a first panel 31, a second panel 32, a third panel 33, a fourth panel 34, and a fifth panel 35 as panel members 3. The first panel 31 constitutes the upper surface (top surface) of the internal space Sp1, the second panel 32 constitutes the lower surface (bottom surface) of the internal space Sp1, the third panel 33 constitutes the left side of the internal space Sp1, the fourth panel 34 constitutes the right side of the internal space Sp1, and the fifth panel 35 constitutes the rear surface of the internal space Sp1.

[0026] In other words, the space enclosed by the panel member 3 becomes the internal space of the heating chamber 2 capable of accommodating the object to be heated (i.e., the chamber space Sp1). The panel member 3 is made of metal so as to reflect electromagnetic waves irradiated into the heating chamber 2. That is, the panel member 3 is made of metal, which reflects electromagnetic waves irradiated into the chamber space Sp1 and efficiently irradiates the object to be heated with electromagnetic waves.

[0027] In this embodiment, as an example, the box body 21 alone is provided with panel members 3, specifically a first panel 31 to a fifth panel 35, each of which is made of a metal plate having a predetermined thickness. However, the panel members 3 may be divided into multiple members, or, for example, a second panel 32, a third panel 33, and a fourth panel 34 may be formed as a single unit.

[0028] Here, at least the first panel 31 to the fifth panel 35, which are panel members 3, are electrically connected to a grounding point, such as the grounding terminal of an outlet with an earthing terminal. In other words, by grounding the first panel 31 to the fifth panel 35, the shielding effect against electromagnetic waves (microwaves in this case) is enhanced. Therefore, electromagnetic waves are shielded by the panel members 3 and are less likely to leak outside the heating chamber 2 (outside the internal space Sp1).

[0029] Furthermore, the cooking appliance 100 according to this embodiment further includes a power supply unit, an operation unit, and a control unit. In addition, the cooking appliance 100 includes various sensors such as a weight sensor and a temperature sensor.

[0030] The control unit is located, for example, on the front of the door body 22. The control unit includes a number of buttons, dials, etc., that can be operated by the user. The control unit accepts, for example, the start and stop of heating of the object to be heated, as well as the setting of heating intensity, heating time, and heating mode.

[0031] The control unit is electrically connected to the heating source, power supply unit, and operating unit, etc. The control unit mainly consists of a computer system having one or more processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and one or more memories such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory), and performs various processes (information processing). The control unit controls each part of the heating cooker 100 in response to the operation of the operating unit.

[0032] Incidentally, the heating appliance 100 according to this embodiment further includes an imaging device 4 for imaging the internal space Sp1. The imaging device 4 is a camera having an image sensor (photoelectric conversion element) such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) sensor. In addition to the image sensor, the imaging device 4, which consists of a camera, has an optical system such as a lens and outputs an image of the internal space Sp1 in real time.

[0033] In this embodiment, the imaging device 4 is connected to the control unit, and the images captured by the imaging device 4 are input to the control unit periodically or irregularly. The control unit monitors the conditions inside the heating chamber 2 (internal space Sp1) by performing appropriate image processing on the images, and uses this information to ensure proper control of each part of the cooking appliance 100.

[0034] For example, the control unit estimates what the object to be heated is located inside the heating chamber 2, or in what condition (e.g., whether or not it has a lid), based on the image acquired from the imaging device 4, and automatically sets the heating intensity, heating time, heating mode, etc. The control unit may also use the image acquired from the imaging device 4 to detect when the object to be heated is being taken in or out of the heating chamber 2, to detect dirt inside the heating chamber 2 (or the door window 221), and for other monitoring (including outside the heating chamber 2).

[0035] Here, the imaging device 4 is fixed to the panel member 3 surrounding the interior space Sp1 so as to include the interior space Sp1 in its field of view. In this embodiment in particular, the imaging device 4 is fixed to the first panel 31 of the panel member 3, which constitutes the upper surface (top surface) of the interior space Sp1, facing diagonally downward. This makes it possible for the imaging device 4 to image the interior space Sp1 from diagonally above, looking down at it.

[0036] [2] Detailed configuration around the imaging device Next, a more detailed description of the configuration of the heating appliance 100 according to this embodiment, specifically the area around the imaging device 4 (camera), will be given with reference to Figures 2 to 8.

[0037] Figures 2 to 8 show only the first panel 31 to which the imaging device 4 is fixed, the imaging device 4, and surrounding components such as the outer holder 51 and inner holder 52 of the cabinet, while other components are omitted as appropriate. In addition, in Figures 4 to 8, only the portion of the first panel 31 surrounding the imaging device 4 is shown.

[0038] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the heating appliance 100 according to this embodiment includes an external holder 51, an internal holder 52, a camera holder 53, screws 54, and electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6. The heating appliance 100 also further includes an elastic member 55 (see Figure 5).

[0039] The imaging device 4 is fixed to the center of the front end of the first panel 31 in the left-right direction D2. Specifically, the first panel 31 is made by bending a metal plate, and both ends in the front-rear direction D3 are located as far as the front-rear direction D3 is Low It has inclined sections 311 and 312 that are angled in such a way.

[0040] The imaging device 4 is supported by the inclined portion 311 on the front side of the first panel 31. More specifically, an opening 310 (see Figure 5) is formed in the center of the inclined portion 311 of the first panel 31 in the left-right direction D2. The opening 310 is a through hole that penetrates the first panel 31 (or its inclined portion 311) in the thickness direction. Here, as an example, the opening 310 is rectangular in shape with a length in the left-right direction D2. The imaging device 4 is positioned above the first panel 31, that is, outside the heating chamber 2, and in a position corresponding to the opening 310.

[0041] Furthermore, the imaging device 4 is positioned such that the optical axis of the optical system passes approximately through the center of the aperture 310, with the optical axis of the optical system tilted downward (diagonally downward) from the horizontal. In this embodiment, as an example, the inclined section 311 is tilted 45 degrees backward. Therefore, the imaging device 4 is also positioned such that the optical axis of the optical system is tilted 45 degrees backward with respect to the vertical.

[0042] As a result, the imaging device 4, positioned on the outside of the heating chamber 2 (above the first panel 31), can image the inside of the heating chamber 2 (cabinet space Sp1) through the opening 310. In other words, the imaging device 4 can image the cabin space Sp1 from a bird's-eye view, from diagonally in front and above.

[0043] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the imaging device 4 is supported by a camera holder 53 above the first panel 31, that is, outside the heating chamber 2. The camera holder 53 has multiple (four in this case) legs 531 that extend along the optical axis of the optical system of the imaging device 4. In this example, the camera holder 53 is made of resin (a molded resin product).

[0044] The camera holder 53 is attached to the panel member 3 (first panel 31) from the outside (upper side) of the heating chamber 2 with one end (lower end) of the multiple legs 531 facing the panel member 3 (first panel 31), and the imaging device 4 is attached to the other end (upper end) of the multiple legs 531. Specifically, the camera holder 53 is fixed with a pair of screws 54, sandwiching the outer holder 51 between the first panel 31 and the surrounding area of ​​the opening 310. The imaging device 4 is fixed to the multiple legs 531 with fasteners such as screws.

[0045] Therefore, the imaging device 4 is supported by the camera holder 53 at a distance from the panel member 3 (first panel 31) toward the outside (upward) of the heating chamber 2. Furthermore, since cavities are secured between the multiple legs 531 of the camera holder 53, cooling air can be passed around the imaging device 4, making it easier to obtain a cooling effect for the imaging device 4.

[0046] The electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 is positioned to close the opening 310. The electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 is glass that has the function of limiting (regulating) the transmission of electromagnetic waves (microwaves in this embodiment) used to heat the object to be heated. The electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 is also called electromagnetic wave shielding glass, and it limits the passage of electromagnetic waves by shielding and / or absorbing high-frequency electromagnetic waves such as microwaves. The electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 only needs to limit the transmission of electromagnetic waves (microwaves), and it is not essential that it completely shields electromagnetic waves.

[0047] Here, the electromagnetic shielding glass 6 is transparent to light in the wavelength range to which the imaging device 4 is sensitive. In other words, the electromagnetic shielding glass 6 has relatively high transmittance (transparency) to light in the visible light range, while limiting the transmission of high-frequency electromagnetic waves such as microwaves.

[0048] Therefore, by closing the opening 310 with the electromagnetic shielding glass 6, the imaging device 4 can image the interior space Sp1 through the electromagnetic shielding glass 6. On the other hand, by closing the opening 310 with the electromagnetic shielding glass 6, it is possible to suppress the leakage of electromagnetic waves (microwaves in this embodiment) irradiated into the interior space Sp1 to the outside of the heating chamber 2 (outside the interior space Sp1) through the opening 310.

[0049] The electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 is attached to the panel member 3 (first panel 31) by being sandwiched between the outer holder 51 and the inner holder 52 in the optical axis direction of the optical system of the imaging device 4. Specifically, the outer holder 51 and the inner holder 52 are both frame-shaped members, and they are coupled to each other so as to sandwich the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 between them, along with the peripheral portion of the opening 310 in the first panel 31.

[0050] The outer holder 51 is located on the outside (upper side) of the heating chamber 2 relative to the first panel 31, and the inner holder 52 is located on the inside (lower side) of the heating chamber 2 relative to the first panel 31. In this embodiment, as an example, both the outer holder 51 and the inner holder 52 are made of resin (resin molded product) and are formed in the shape of a rectangular frame with a length in the left-right direction D2.

[0051] The outer holder 51 and the inner holder 52 are then fixed to the first panel 31 by a pair of screws 54, sandwiching the area around the opening 310. In this embodiment, the pair of screws 54 are inserted from the inside of the heating chamber 2, that is, from the inner holder 52 side, and tightened to the camera holder 53 through the first panel 31 and the outer holder 51. As a result, the outer holder 51 and the inner holder 52 are fixed to the first panel 31 together with the camera holder 53. Consequently, the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6, held in place by the outer holder 51 and the inner holder 52, is attached to the panel member 3 (first panel 31) so as to close the opening 310.

[0052] Here, the frame-shaped outer holder 51 has a rectangular through-hole 511, and the frame-shaped inner holder 52 has a rectangular through-hole 521. Therefore, the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6, held in place by the outer holder 51 and the inner holder 52, is exposed to the outside (upper side) of the heating chamber 2 through the through-hole 511 and to the inside (lower side) of the heating chamber 2 through the through-hole 521. Consequently, the imaging device 4 can image the interior space Sp1 of the heating chamber through the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 via the through-hole 511, the opening 310, and the through-hole 521.

[0053] However, if the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 is not grounded or otherwise electrically isolated, the electromagnetic wave shielding performance of the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 may not be sufficient, and in some cases, electromagnetic waves may leak out of the heating chamber 2 through the opening 310. Therefore, in this embodiment, the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 is electrically connected to the panel member 3 (first panel 31) and brought to the same potential as the panel member 3, thereby improving the electromagnetic wave shielding performance of the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 and preventing electromagnetic waves from leaking out of the heating chamber 2 through the opening 310.

[0054] In short, the heating cooker 100 according to this embodiment comprises a heating chamber 2, an electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6, and a connecting part 60, as shown in Figure 6. The heating chamber 2 has a panel member 3 surrounding an internal space Sp1 capable of accommodating an object to be heated, and heats the object using electromagnetic waves. The electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 closes an opening 310 formed in a part of the panel member 3. The connecting part 60 is located on the panel member 3 and electrically connects the metal mesh 63 of the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6.

[0055] In other words, as shown in Figure 6, the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 has a metal mesh 63, and the panel member 3 (here, the first panel 31) is provided with a connection part 60 (shown as a grid-like shaded area in Figure 6) for electrically connecting the metal mesh 63. The connection part 60 can be any structure capable of electrically connecting the metal mesh 63 of the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6, such as an electrode or a terminal.

[0056] In this way, by electrically connecting the metal mesh 63 of the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 to the panel member 3, the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 becomes at the same potential as the panel member 3, improving the shielding performance of electromagnetic waves (microwaves) by the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6. Therefore, the heating cooker 100 according to this embodiment has the advantage that the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 more reliably prevents electromagnetic waves from leaking outside the heating chamber 2 through the opening 310, making it less likely for electromagnetic waves to leak outside the heating chamber 2.

[0057] In this embodiment, the opening 310 is provided in order to enable imaging of the internal space Sp1 by an imaging device 4 located on the outside of the heating chamber 2. In other words, the cooking appliance 100 is equipped with an imaging device 4 located on the outside of the heating chamber 2 that images the internal space Sp1 through the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6.

[0058] In short, while the imaging device 4 can image the interior space Sp1, the opening 310 is closed with electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6, and the metal mesh 63 is electrically connected to the panel member 3, thereby preventing electromagnetic waves from leaking through the opening 310.

[0059] In particular, in this embodiment, since the panel member 3 (first panel 31) is grounded, the metal mesh 63 of the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 is also grounded. As a result, the shielding effect against electromagnetic waves (microwaves in this case) is also enhanced for the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6, and electromagnetic waves are less likely to leak out of the heating chamber 2 through the opening 310.

[0060] More specifically, the electromagnetic shielding glass 6, as shown in Figure 6, is a glass component in which a metal mesh 63 is integrated into a rectangular plate-shaped glass panel 61. The metal mesh 63 is a metal component for attenuating electromagnetic waves and is formed in a mesh-like structure using relatively thin metal wires. The metal mesh 63 is integrated with the glass panel 61 by bonding (joining) it to the glass panel 61 with an adhesive or by plating.

[0061] The aperture ratio of the metal mesh 63 is higher than that of the perforated metal provided in the door window 221 (for example, 50% or less), for example, 60% or more. More preferably, the aperture ratio of the metal mesh 63 is 65% or more, 70% or more, or 75% or more, and may be 80% or more. In this embodiment, as an example, the aperture ratio of the metal mesh 63 is set to approximately 78%. Because the metal wires forming the mesh of such a high aperture ratio metal mesh 63 are thin, it appears transparent (or nearly transparent), and the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 having such a metal mesh 63 also appears transparent (or nearly transparent).

[0062] In this embodiment, the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6, as shown in Figure 6, comprises a metal mesh 63 and a pair of glass panels 61 and 62 that sandwich the metal mesh 63. In other words, the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 is constructed by sandwiching the metal mesh 63 between a glass panel 61 located on the inside (bottom) of the heating chamber 2 and a glass panel 62 located on the outside (top) of the heating chamber 2. By having a double layer of glass panels 61 and 62 in this way, the strength of the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 can be improved, and the metal mesh 63 can be protected.

[0063] The pair of glass panels 61 and 62 are both made of tempered glass with sufficient heat resistance and durability, and are formed in a rectangular shape that is slightly smaller than the metal mesh 63 and has a length in the left-right direction D2. In this embodiment, the shape and thickness of the pair of glass panels 61 and 62 are the same, but the shape and / or thickness of the pair of glass panels 61 and 62 may be different.

[0064] Here, the metal mesh 63 is bonded to the pair of glass panels 61 and 62 via a special adhesive layer having electromagnetic wave absorption properties. As a result, the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 can enhance its electromagnetic wave shielding performance while maintaining the high light transmittance characteristic of glass. For example, the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 has an electromagnetic wave absorption performance of approximately 20 dB and an electromagnetic wave shielding performance of approximately 60 dB for electromagnetic waves at 915 MHz.

[0065] Furthermore, of the pair of glass panels 61 and 62, one glass panel 61 is positioned inside the heating chamber 2, and the other glass panel 62 is positioned outside the heating chamber 2. Specifically, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the pair of glass panels 61 and 62 are formed in a rectangular shape slightly smaller than the opening 310 so that they can be fitted into the opening 310. By positioning the pair of glass panels 61 and 62 to fit within the opening 310, one glass panel 61 protrudes from the panel member 3 into the heating chamber 2, and the other glass panel 62 protrudes from the panel member 3 into the heating chamber 2.

[0066] This arrangement of the pair of glass panels 61 and 62 allows the metal mesh 63 sandwiched between the pair of glass panels 61 and 62 to be in direct contact with the panel member 3. As a result, it becomes easier to prevent electromagnetic waves from leaking through the gap between the metal mesh 63 and the panel member 3.

[0067] Furthermore, the metal mesh 63 extends all the way around from one of the glass panels 61. In other words, when viewed from inside the heating chamber 2, the metal mesh 63 extends all the way around from the glass panel 61 located in front of it. Specifically, the metal mesh 63 is formed in a rectangular shape that is slightly larger than the opening 310.

[0068] In this way, the metal mesh 63 extends beyond the glass panel 61 around its entire circumference, making it possible to bring the metal mesh 63 into contact with the panel member 3 around the entire circumference of the opening 310. As a result, it becomes easier to prevent electromagnetic waves from leaking through the gap between the metal mesh 63 and the panel member 3.

[0069] Furthermore, the connecting portion 60 is positioned on the outer surface of the heating chamber 2 in the panel member 3. In other words, the connecting portion 60 is provided on the surface (top surface) opposite to the internal space Sp1 of the first panel 31. Therefore, the metal mesh 63 can be connected to the connecting portion 60 from the outside of the heating chamber 2 (first panel 31) in the panel member 3.

[0070] This has the advantage that the connection part 60 is less susceptible to the effects of electromagnetic waves. In other words, the connection part 60 is less exposed to electromagnetic waves compared to when it is positioned facing the inside of the heating chamber 2.

[0071] Here, as shown in Figure 6, the connection portion 60 is positioned around the entire circumference of the opening 310 of the panel member 3 on the side of the first panel 31 opposite to the internal space Sp1. In other words, the rectangular frame-shaped area surrounding the opening 310 in the first panel 31 becomes the connection portion 60. When the metal mesh 63 of the electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 comes into contact with this connection portion 60, the metal mesh 63 is electrically connected to the panel member 3 (first panel 31).

[0072] Various means can be used to join the connecting portion 60 and the metal mesh 63, such as crimping, bonding, and welding. Specifically, the connecting portion 60 and the metal mesh 63 may be joined by bonding the connecting portion 60 to the metal mesh 63 with a conductive paste, or by welding the metal mesh 63 to the connecting portion 60. Alternatively, the connecting portion 60 and the metal mesh 63 may be electrically connected via bumps or bonding wires.

[0073] In this embodiment, the connecting portion 60 and the metal mesh 63 are joined by compression using the elastic member 55.

[0074] In other words, as shown in Figures 6 to 8, an elastic member 55 is interposed between the outer holder 51 and the metal mesh 63. The elastic member 55 is elastic and is formed in a frame shape. In this embodiment, as an example, the elastic member 55 is made of rubber (rubber packing) and is formed in a rectangular frame shape with a length in the left-right direction D2. With such an elastic member 55 positioned between the outer holder 51 and the metal mesh 63, the metal mesh 63 is pressed against the connection portion 60 by the elastic member 55 and compressed against the connection portion 60.

[0075] In short, the heating appliance 100 is equipped with an elastic member 55 that presses the metal mesh 63 to the connection part 60. This makes it possible to connect the metal mesh 63 and the connection part 60 with low impedance. Furthermore, even if vibrations are applied to the panel member 3, for example, the connection between the metal mesh 63 and the connection part 60 is more easily maintained.

[0076] In particular, in this embodiment, the connecting portion 60 is arranged around the entire circumference of the opening 310 of the panel member 3. The elastic member 55 presses the metal mesh 63 against the connecting portion 60 around the entire circumference of the opening 310 of the panel member 3. In other words, the rectangular frame-shaped elastic member 55 allows the metal mesh 63 to be pressed against the connecting portion 60 formed around the entire circumference of the opening 310. As a result, the metal mesh 63 can be connected to the connecting portion 60 without any gaps around the opening 310, so as to surround the opening 310. Therefore, it is easier to prevent electromagnetic waves from leaking through the gap between the metal mesh 63 and the connecting portion 60.

[0077] Furthermore, the elastic member 55 is positioned in a recess 512 (see Figure 6) of a holder (outside holder 51) fixed to the panel member 3. Specifically, a groove-shaped recess 512 is provided on the surface (bottom surface) of the outside holder 51 facing the metal mesh 63, surrounding the through hole 511. The depth of the recess 512 is set to be smaller than the thickness of the elastic member 55. By fitting the elastic member 55 into this recess 512, the shape of the elastic member 55 is maintained and the elastic member 55 is positioned.

[0078] [3] Variant The following lists some modifications of Embodiment 1. The modifications described below can be combined and applied as appropriate.

[0079] The electromagnetic wave shielding glass 6 does not necessarily have to have a double layer (a pair) of glass panels 61, 62; it may also have a configuration in which a metal mesh 63 is bonded to one side of a single layer (one sheet) of glass panel 61.

[0080] Furthermore, the opening 310 may be located at any position on the panel member 3, for example, at the rear end of the first panel 31, or on the second panel 32, third panel 33, fourth panel 34, or fifth panel 35. In addition, if the imaging device 4 is located on the door body 22, the opening 310 may be provided on the panel member constituting the inner surface of the door body 22.

[0081] Furthermore, it is not necessary for the metal mesh 63 to extend all the way around the glass panel 61; the metal mesh 63 may partially extend from the outer edge of the glass panel 61.

[0082] Furthermore, it is not essential that the connecting portion 60 be positioned around the entire circumference of the opening 310 of the panel member 3; the connecting portion 60 may be positioned only partially around the opening 310 of the panel member 3.

[0083] Furthermore, it is not essential that the connecting portion 60 be located on the outer surface of the heating chamber 2 on the panel member 3. For example, the connecting portion 60 may be located on the inner surface of the heating chamber 2 on the panel member 3.

[0084] Furthermore, the various components such as the external holder 51, the internal holder 52, and the camera holder 53 are not limited to being made of resin; for example, at least a part of them may be made of metal.

[0085] Furthermore, the elastic member 55 is not limited to being made of rubber; for example, it may be composed of a leaf spring, a coil spring, or other elastic material.

[0086] [Notes on the invention] The following is an overview of the invention extracted from the above-described embodiments. Note that each configuration and processing function described below can be selected and combined as desired.

[0087] <Note 1> A heating chamber having panel members surrounding an internal space capable of accommodating an object to be heated, and heating the object using electromagnetic waves, An electromagnetic wave shielding glass that closes an opening formed in a part of the panel member, The panel member is located and comprises a connecting portion that electrically connects the metal mesh of the electromagnetic wave shielding glass, Heating cooker.

[0088] <Note 2> The electromagnetic wave shielding glass comprises the metal mesh and a pair of glass panels sandwiching the metal mesh. The heating appliance described in Appendix 1.

[0089] <Note 3> Of the pair of glass panels, one glass panel is positioned on the inside of the heating chamber, and the other glass panel is positioned on the outside of the heating chamber. The heating appliance described in Appendix 2.

[0090] <Note 4> The metal mesh extends around the entire circumference from one of the glass panels. A cooking appliance as described in Appendix 2 or 3.

[0091] <Note 5> The system further comprises an elastic member that presses the metal mesh to the connecting portion. A cooking appliance as described in any of the notes 1 to 4.

[0092] <Note 6> The connecting portion is arranged around the entire circumference of the opening of the panel member, The elastic member presses the metal mesh to the connecting portion around the entire circumference of the opening of the panel member. The heating appliance described in Appendix 5.

[0093] <Note 7> The elastic member is positioned in a recess of a holder fixed to the panel member. A cooking appliance as described in Appendix 5 or 6.

[0094] <Note 8> The connecting portion is located on the outer surface of the heating chamber of the panel member. A cooking appliance as described in any of the notes 1 to 7.

[0095] <Note 9> The system further includes an imaging device positioned on the outside of the heating chamber, which images the interior space of the chamber through the electromagnetic wave shielding glass. A cooking appliance as described in any of the notes 1 to 8. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0096] 2 Heating cabinet 3 Panel members 4. Imaging device 6. Electromagnetic wave shielding glass for fans 51 External holder (holder) 55 Elastic members 60 Connection part 61, 62 Glass Panel 63 Metal Mesh 512 recess 310 Opening Sp1 Interior space

Claims

1. A heating chamber having panel members surrounding an internal space capable of accommodating an object to be heated, and heating the object using electromagnetic waves, An electromagnetic wave shielding glass that closes an opening formed in a part of the panel member, The panel member is located and comprises a connecting portion that electrically connects the metal mesh of the electromagnetic wave shielding glass, Heating cooker.

2. The electromagnetic wave shielding glass comprises the metal mesh and a pair of glass panels sandwiching the metal mesh. A heating appliance according to claim 1.

3. Of the pair of glass panels, one glass panel is positioned on the inside of the heating chamber, and the other glass panel is positioned on the outside of the heating chamber. A cooking appliance according to claim 2.

4. The metal mesh extends around the entire circumference from one of the glass panels. A cooking appliance according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The system further comprises an elastic member that presses the metal mesh to the connecting portion. A cooking appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The connecting portion is arranged around the entire circumference of the opening of the panel member, The elastic member presses the metal mesh to the connecting portion around the entire circumference of the opening of the panel member. A cooking appliance according to claim 5.

7. The elastic member is positioned in a recess of a holder fixed to the panel member. A cooking appliance according to claim 5.

8. The connecting portion is located on the outer surface of the heating chamber of the panel member. A cooking appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

9. The system further includes an imaging device positioned on the outside of the heating chamber, which images the interior space of the chamber through the electromagnetic wave shielding glass. A cooking appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

Images