Kitchen Unit

Abstract

We provide a kitchen unit that allows for the use of electrical appliances over a wide area around the kitchen counter. [Solution] The kitchen unit (100) of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a kitchen counter (110) having a top plate (101); a shielding panel unit (1) erected on the top plate in the vicinity of a stove (102) or sink (103) provided on the kitchen counter; and a power supply unit (4) provided on the shielding panel unit, which can be powered when a plug is inserted.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a kitchen unit.

Background Art

[0002] On a kitchen counter provided with a stove, a sink, etc., for example, cooking appliances such as a mixer may be used. Therefore, a kitchen unit provided with a power supply unit (plug receptacle) for inserting and energizing the plug of the cooking appliance has been proposed. In the kitchen apparatus described in Patent Document 1, an outlet portion is provided on the front end surface of the cooking table.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the kitchen apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1, the outlet portion protrudes and is provided downward on the front end surface located on the front side when the cook stands facing the kitchen apparatus. Thus, when the plug is connected with the outlet portion protruding from the front end surface of the kitchen counter, the plug protrudes from the front surface of the kitchen counter and the cord hangs down on the front side. As a result, the cord may be caught by a drawer or a door of a shelf provided below the kitchen counter, which has been an obstacle to the working line of the cook.

[0005] Examples of kitchen unit layouts include island kitchens, where the kitchen unit is erected on the floor, separated from the building's walls, and open kitchens called peninsula kitchens, where one side wall of the kitchen unit in the width direction (the side wall to the left or right of the cook standing in the kitchen unit) is adjacent to the building's walls. In open kitchens, there is no partition wall at the back of the kitchen counter in the depth direction when the cook is standing facing the kitchen counter, leaving it open to the adjacent dining room or other area.

[0006] In open kitchens with a face-to-face layout, the surface of the kitchen counter, excluding the stovetop and sink, is often made flat with minimal irregularities to create a sense of unity between the kitchen and living spaces. Additionally, the kitchen counter's surface area is sometimes widened so that part of it doubles as a dining table.

[0007] In this type of open kitchen with a face-to-face layout, the cook is not limited to standing on one side of the kitchen counter; they can stand on all four or three sides of the counter. Therefore, cooking appliances may also be used on the dining area side.

[0008] In such cases, if the outlet is located on the front of the kitchen counter as in Patent Document 1, the cord will cross the kitchen counter when cooking appliances are used in the dining area, interfering with cooking work. Also, if the kitchen counter has a large surface area, an outlet that opens downwards from the front, as in Patent Document 1, may result in insufficient cord length, preventing the use of cooking appliances in the dining area. Furthermore, because water is used in kitchen counters, it is not possible to embed the power supply unit in the counter surface.

[0009] Based on the above circumstances, the present invention aims to provide a kitchen unit that allows electrical appliances to be used over a wide area around the kitchen counter. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The kitchen unit according to the present invention is characterized by comprising: a kitchen counter having a countertop; a shielding panel unit erected on the countertop near a stove or sink provided on the kitchen counter; and a power supply unit provided on the shielding panel unit that can be powered by plugging it in.

[0011] According to this invention, since the power supply unit is provided in a shielding panel unit erected near the stove or sink, the power supply unit can be placed on the countertop. As a result, the cords of cooking appliances will not get caught in drawers or other fixtures on the front of the kitchen unit, and the cook's workflow will not be obstructed. Furthermore, a kitchen unit can be provided that allows the use of electrical appliances over a wide area around the kitchen counter. In addition, by providing the power supply unit in the shielding panel unit, the power supply unit is less conspicuous in appearance compared to when it is independently protruding from the countertop, resulting in a kitchen unit with superior aesthetic design.

[0012] In the kitchen unit according to the present invention, the shielding panel unit comprises a panel body and a frame mounted on the countertop and supporting and fixing the panel body, and the power supply unit may be provided on the frame.

[0013] According to this invention, since the power supply unit is provided on the frame that supports the shielding panel, the power supply unit is less conspicuous in appearance compared to the case where the power supply unit is provided as a separate protruding part on the top plate, and a kitchen unit with superior aesthetic design can be provided.

[0014] In the kitchen unit according to the present invention, the power supply unit may be provided in the frame below the panel body.

[0015] According to this invention, by providing the power supply unit in the lower frame of the panel body, the power supply unit is not visually conspicuous, and a kitchen unit with excellent aesthetic design can be provided. Furthermore, when a plug is connected to the power supply unit, the cord of the electrical appliance extends near the countertop, making it less likely to obstruct the workflow on the countertop.

[0016] In the kitchen unit according to the present invention, the frame comprises a vertical frame provided on the vertical edge of the panel body and a horizontal frame provided on the horizontal edge of the panel body, and the power supply unit may be provided on the vertical frame.

[0017] According to this invention, since the power supply unit is provided on the vertical frame of a frame comprising a horizontal frame and a vertical frame, the power supply unit can be positioned at a location spaced above the top plate.

[0018] In the kitchen unit according to the present invention, the power supply unit may be provided on the outer surface of the frame which is substantially parallel to the thickness direction of the panel body.

[0019] According to this invention, since the power supply unit is provided on the outer surface of the frame which is substantially parallel to the thickness direction of the panel body, the power supply unit is difficult to see from the living space or dining space side, and a shielding panel unit with a high aesthetic design can be provided. In addition, the plug can be easily inserted into the plug socket regardless of whether the user is standing in the front or back direction of the kitchen counter.

[0020] In the kitchen unit according to the present invention, the power supply unit may be provided on the side of the frame of the shielding panel unit that is opposite to the stove or sink side.

[0021] According to this invention, by providing the power supply unit on the side of the shielding panel unit frame opposite to the stove or sink side, the power supply unit is not visually conspicuous, and a kitchen unit with excellent aesthetic design can be provided. Furthermore, when a plug is connected to the power supply unit, the cord of the electrical appliance is less likely to be located on the stove or sink side of the panel body, thus ensuring the safety of the wiring.

[0022] In the kitchen unit according to the present invention, the kitchen counter may be provided such that an end portion on the surface side opposite to the side of the stove or the sink in the shielding panel unit is spaced apart from the wall of the building.

[0023] According to this invention, particularly in a face-to-face open kitchen, a kitchen unit in which electrical appliances can be used in a wide range around the kitchen counter can be provided.

Effect of the Invention

[0024] In a face-to-face open kitchen, a kitchen unit in which electrical appliances can be used in a wide range around the kitchen counter can be provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view showing a kitchen unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a perspective view showing a part of a kitchen unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a perspective view showing a part of a kitchen unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] It is a longitudinal sectional view of a screen unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] It is a perspective view showing a first modification of a screen unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] It is a sectional view showing a first modification of a screen unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] It is a perspective view showing a second modification of a screen unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is a perspective view showing a third modification of a screen unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] It is a perspective view showing a fourth modification of a screen unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10]This is an exploded perspective view of a fourth modification of the screen unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a perspective view showing a fifth modified example of the screen unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This is an exploded perspective view of a fifth modified example of the screen unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] This is a perspective view showing a kitchen unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] A perspective view showing a part of a kitchen unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0026] (First Embodiment) Hereinafter, a kitchen unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the kitchen unit 100 according to this embodiment. The kitchen unit 100 according to this embodiment is installed at the boundary between the living space or dining space and the kitchen space in a living room. The kitchen unit 100 according to this embodiment is a kitchen unit 100 that is suitably used in an island-type kitchen that is positioned away from the building wall, or a peninsula-type kitchen (peninsula-type kitchen) in which only one end of the kitchen counter is positioned close to the building wall.

[0027] In face-to-face kitchen units positioned facing the living or dining space, sometimes a custom-built wall or storage cabinet that is taller than the kitchen countertop is placed to obscure the view of the kitchen counter. In contrast, as shown in Figure 1, there are kitchen units that do not have custom-built structures taller than the countertop at the ends of the kitchen counter. In the following description, kitchen units that do not have custom-built structures taller than the countertop will be referred to as open kitchens. In the following description, the direction perpendicular to the floor F on which the kitchen unit 100 is installed will be referred to as the vertical direction.

[0028] As shown in Figure 1, the kitchen unit 100 according to this embodiment includes a kitchen counter 110, a stove 102, a sink 103, a screen unit (shielding panel unit) 1, and a power supply unit 4.

[0029] The kitchen counter 110 has a countertop 101 and a cabinet 104 that supports the countertop 101. The cabinet 104 is a rectangular parallelepiped structure erected on the floor F. Although not shown in the illustration, the cabinet 104 is appropriately provided with storage compartments such as drawers and shelves for storing cooking utensils, storage compartments for electrical appliances such as dishwashers and ovens, and piping compartments for storing gas pipes, electrical wiring, water supply and drainage pipes, etc.

[0030] The top plate 101 is a flat, approximately rectangular member in plan view. The top plate 101 is placed and fixed on the cabinet 104. As shown in Figure 1, the longitudinal dimension of the top plate 101 is approximately equal to the longitudinal dimension of the cabinet 104. Of the two longitudinal sides 101a and 101b of the top plate 101, the first side 101a is positioned near the side wall of the cabinet 104, while the other longitudinal side, the second side 101b, protrudes horizontally from the side wall of the cabinet 104.

[0031] The countertop 101 has vertically penetrating openings at the locations where the stove 102, sink 103, and faucet 105 (see Figure 3) will be installed. The stove 102, sink 103, and faucet 105, located near the sink 103, are positioned and fixed in these openings.

[0032] The stovetop 102 and sink 103 are arranged side by side and spaced apart along the longitudinal direction of the countertop 101. The stovetop 102 and sink 103 are positioned near the first side 101a of the countertop 101. When cooking, users of the kitchen unit 100 mainly stand on the side of the first side 101a. The work area R between the stovetop 102 and sink 103 on the countertop 101 functions as a work surface. The second side 101b of the countertop 101 is configured to be used not only as a kitchen work surface but also as a work surface for the dining space or living space. Furthermore, if chairs are placed on the second side 101b, it functions as a counter table.

[0033] The stovetop 102 is a known gas stove or electric stovetop, and is configured to be connected to gas piping or electrical wiring within the cabinet 104 and capable of heating and cooking.

[0034] The sink 103 is a known sink, and a drain (not shown) is connected to a drain pipe located inside the cabinet 104. The faucet 105 is connected to a water supply pipe inside the cabinet 104 and is configured to dispense water into the sink 103. The water dispensed from the faucet 105 is drained into the drain pipe through the drain in the sink 103.

[0035] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing a part of the kitchen unit 100 of Figure 1, and is a perspective view showing the stovetop 102 and the screen unit 1 installed near the stovetop 102. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a part of the kitchen unit 100 of Figure 1, and is a perspective view showing the sink 103 and the screen unit 1 installed near the stovetop 102.

[0036] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the screen unit 1 is erected on the countertop 101 in the vicinity of the stovetop 102 and sink 103 installed on the kitchen counter 110. The screen unit 1 is installed near the end of the second side 101b of the stovetop 102 and near the end of the second side 101b of the sink 103. The screen unit 1 is a panel that provides a shielding function between the stovetop 102 or sink 103 and its surroundings. In the case of the stovetop 102, it provides functions such as preventing the scattering of oil and other substances during cooking, capturing smoke, and acting as a windbreak for flames, and in the case of the sink 103, it provides a function of preventing water from splashing when the sink is in use.

[0037] The screen unit 1 comprises a frame 2 and a screen (panel body) 3. The frame 2 is a substantially rectangular elongated member fixed on the top plate 101. The frame 2 is provided to support and fix the panel body. Figure 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the frame 2 of the screen unit 1 of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the frame 2 comprises a frame body 21 that constitutes the outer frame and a locking member 22 that locks the screen 3. The frame body 21 and the locking member 22 are elongated members that are substantially equal in length to the frame 2. The frame body 21 and the locking member 22 are profiles made of aluminum alloy. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the frame 2 further comprises end caps 5, 5 provided at both ends in the longitudinal direction.

[0038] In the following description of the screen unit 1 and the power supply unit 4, for all components other than the frame 2, when attached to the screen unit 1, the direction along the longitudinal direction of the frame 2 will be referred to as the longitudinal direction, and the horizontal direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction will be referred to as the front-to-back direction. Of the front-to-back direction, when the screen unit 1 is attached to the top plate 101, the first side 101a of the top plate 101 will be referred to as the front side, and the second side 101b will be referred to as the rear side.

[0039] The frame body 21 is a component fixed onto the top plate 101. As shown in Figure 4, the frame body 21 is a component with a roughly U-shaped longitudinal cross-section, consisting of a base 210 that abuts against the top plate 101 and a first side wall 211 and a second side wall 212 that extend vertically. The first side wall 211 and the second side wall 212 are erected upward from both ends in the front-rear direction of the base 210, and the base 210, the first side wall 211 and the second side wall 212 form a groove 213 that opens upward. Two through holes 25, 25 for arranging the power supply unit 4 are formed side by side in the longitudinal direction at one end of the second side wall 212 (the end on the work area R side). A wiring hole 26 that penetrates vertically is formed at the longitudinal end of the base 210, near the through holes 25, 25.

[0040] The locking member 22 is a member that fits into the groove 213 of the frame body 21. The locking member 22 has a first contact wall 221, a second contact wall 222, a locking groove 223, and upper cover portions 224a and 224b. The first contact wall 221 and the second contact wall 222 are located at the lower end of the locking member 22 and have planes that extend in the vertical direction. The first contact wall 221 and the second contact wall 222 extend parallel to the longitudinal direction. At the longitudinal end of the second contact wall 222, at a position in the longitudinal direction equal to the through holes 25, 25 of the second side wall 212, an insertion recess 227 (see Figure 4) is formed. The insertion recess 227 is a recess in which the second contact wall 222 (including the horizontal extension) is cut out to a size that allows the power box 41, which will be described later, to pass through.

[0041] Locking grooves 223 are provided at the upper parts of the first contact wall 221 and the second contact wall 222. The upper cover portions 224a and 224b extend substantially horizontally in the front-rear direction of the frame 2 from the upper end of the locking groove 223 to the upper ends of the first side wall 211 and the second side wall 212 of the frame body 21. The upper cover portions 224a and 224b are equipped with upper locking portions 225 and 226 that extend downward from both ends in the front-rear direction.

[0042] As shown in Figure 4, the locking groove 223 is offset from the center of the frame 2 in the front-rear direction towards the first side 101a (front side). The gap Sb between the second side wall 212 and the outer wall of the locking groove 223 is wider than the gap Sa between the first side wall 211 and the outer wall of the locking groove 223. The gap Sb between the second side wall 212 and the outer wall of the locking groove 223 becomes the power supply housing section 4S of the power supply unit 4, which will be described later.

[0043] Screen 3 is a panel made of glass or plastic. Screen 3 is particularly preferable if it is transparent or semi-transparent, as this does not detract from the sense of openness in an open kitchen. As shown in Figure 4, the lower end of screen 3 is covered by a cover member 31. The cover member 31 is a long resin member with a roughly U-shaped vertical cross-section and has external dimensions that allow it to be inserted while in contact with the locking groove 223 of the locking member 22 of the frame 2. The cover member 31 is provided with a support groove 32 that opens upward, and the lower end of screen 3 is inserted into the support groove 32 and tightly fixed.

[0044] The power supply unit 4 is provided on the frame 2 of the screen unit 1. The power supply unit 4 is a known plug receptacle that has a plug socket 40 (see Figures 2 and 3), a power box 41 housing an electrical connection mechanism, and wiring 42, and can be powered when an electrical appliance plug is inserted. In this embodiment, two power supply units 4 are provided.

[0045] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the power supply unit 4 is located on the lower frame 2 of the screen 3. Specifically, the power supply unit 4 is located on the second side wall 212 of the frame 2 of the screen unit 1, on the second side 101b, which is opposite to the stove 102 or sink 103 side. The power supply unit 4 is positioned toward the second side 101b of the countertop 101. In addition, each plug socket 40, 40 is positioned so that its lower end is above the countertop 101. As a result, it is possible to prevent water spilled on the countertop 101 from reaching the plug socket 40. Although not shown in the figures, a cap may be provided to cover the plug socket 40 from the outside when the power supply unit 4 is not in use.

[0046] The end caps 5,5 are substantially flat caps having a shape and dimensions corresponding to the outer shape of both ends of the frame 2 in the longitudinal direction, and are positioned to cover both ends of the frame 2 in the longitudinal direction and engage with the frame 2. The end caps 5,5 seal the ends of the frame 2 to prevent water from entering the inside of the frame 2. The end caps 5,5 are detachably attached to the frame 2. Therefore, when performing maintenance on the power supply unit 4, the end caps 5 are removed before work.

[0047] Next, the installation method for the screen unit 1 and the power supply unit 4 will be described. First, the frame body 21 is placed on the countertop 101 so that the base 210 abuts against the countertop 101 on the second side 101b near the stove 102 or sink 103. The frame body 21 is fixed to the countertop 101 by inserting screws into the grooves 213.

[0048] Next, the power supply unit 4 is positioned. The wiring 42 of the power supply unit 4 is inserted through the wiring hole 26 in the base 210 of the frame 2 and the wiring hole 106 that penetrates vertically through the top plate 101, thereby connecting it to the electrical wiring provided inside the cabinet 104 so that power can be supplied. The plug sockets 40 are arranged in the power supply storage section 4S inside the frame 2, and each plug socket 40 is fitted into the through holes 25, 25 of the second side wall 212 and secured.

[0049] Next, the locking member 22 is positioned within the groove 213 of the frame body 21. Specifically, the planes of the first contact wall 221 and the second contact wall 222 are brought into contact with the inner surfaces of the first side wall 211 and the second side wall 212 of the frame body 21, respectively, and the upper cover portions 224a and 224b are positioned to cover the upper opening of the groove 213 of the frame body 21. The upper locking portions 225 and 226 cover the upper ends of the first contact wall 221 and the second contact wall 222, and the lower ends of the upper locking portions 225 and 226 abut against the respective support surfaces 221a and 222a, which are provided horizontally on the upper ends of the first contact wall 221 and the second contact wall 222. As a result, the locking member 22 is locked to the frame body 21. When the locking member 22 is inserted into the groove 213 from above, the insertion recess 227 is positioned to correspond to the power box 41, and the power box 41 is positioned to pass through the insertion recess 227.

[0050] Next, the screen 3 is fixed to the frame 2. Adhesive is placed in the locking groove 223, and when the cover member 31 of the screen 3 is inserted into the locking groove 223, the cover member 31 is pressed against the locking groove 223 and compressed. The lower end of the screen 3 is supported and fixed to the locking groove 223 by the adhesive. As a result, the screen 3 inserted into the frame 2 cannot be removed from the frame 2. With the above steps completed, the screen unit 1 and the power supply unit 4 can be installed on the top plate 101.

[0051] According to the kitchen unit 100 of this embodiment, the power supply unit 4 is provided in the screen unit 1 which is erected near the stove 102 or sink 103, so the power supply unit 4 can be provided on the countertop 101. As a result, the cords of cooking appliances will not get caught in drawers or the like provided on the front of the kitchen unit 100, and the workflow of the user while cooking will be improved. It does not obstruct anything. Furthermore, it is possible to provide a kitchen unit 100 in which electrical appliances can be used over a wide area around the countertop 101. In addition, by providing the power supply unit 4 in the screen unit 1, the power supply unit 4 is less conspicuous in appearance compared to the case in which the power supply unit 4 is independently protruding from the countertop 101, and a kitchen unit 100 with superior appearance design can be provided.

[0052] According to the kitchen unit 100 of this embodiment, since the power supply unit 4 is provided on the frame 2 that supports the screen 3, the power supply unit 4 is less conspicuous in appearance compared to the case where the power supply unit 4 is independently protruding from the countertop 101, and a kitchen unit 100 with superior appearance design can be provided. In addition, since the power supply unit 4 is positioned higher than the upper surface of the countertop 101, even if water is spilled on the countertop 101, it is less likely that water will adhere to the plug socket 40.

[0053] According to the kitchen unit 100 of this embodiment, the power supply unit 4 is provided on a frame 2 located below the screen 3, so that the power supply unit 4 is not conspicuous in appearance, and a kitchen unit 100 with excellent aesthetic design can be provided. In addition, when a plug is connected to the power supply unit 4, the cord of the electrical appliance extends near the countertop 101, making it less likely to obstruct the workflow on the countertop 101.

[0054] According to the kitchen unit 100 of this embodiment, the power supply unit 4 is provided on the second side wall 212 (side) of the frame 2 of the screen unit 1 that is opposite to the stove 102 or sink 103 side. As a result, the power supply unit 4 is not conspicuous in appearance, and a kitchen unit 100 with excellent aesthetic design can be provided. Furthermore, when a plug is connected to the power supply unit 4, the cord of the electrical appliance is less likely to be located on the stove 102 or sink 103 side of the screen 3, thus ensuring the safety of the electrical wiring.

[0055] According to the kitchen unit 100 of this embodiment, in particular, it is possible to provide a kitchen unit 100 in which electrical appliances can be used over a wide area around the countertop 101, especially in an open kitchen facing the counter.

[0056] In open kitchens with a face-to-face layout, there are island-type kitchen counters 110 that are set back from the building's walls and erected independently within the living space, and peninsula-type kitchen counters where only one side of the counter is adjacent to the building's wall. In the case of island-type and peninsula-type kitchen counters, partition walls for concealment are often not provided at the ends of the kitchen counters. According to this invention, by providing the power supply unit in a part of the screen unit, the power supply unit can be placed in a location that is not visually conspicuous.

[0057] In order to arrange the power supply unit 4 on the top plate 101 so that it is not visually conspicuous, the power supply unit 4 can be provided on the frame 2. Therefore, the position of the power supply unit 4 on the frame 2 is not limited to the position shown in the above embodiment. A modified example of the screen unit is shown below. In the following description and drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations may be omitted.

[0058] (First torture) Figure 5 is a perspective view showing a screen unit 1A of the first modification of the first embodiment, showing one end of the frame 2A in the longitudinal direction. Figure 6 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the screen unit 1A of the first modification near the frame 2A. This modified screen unit 1A is an example in which the configuration of the frame 2A and end cap 5A and the position of the power supply unit 4 differ from the above embodiment. This modified example is an example in which the power supply unit 4 is provided at the bottom of the frame 2.

[0059] As shown in Figure 5, the end cap 5A is a substantially flat plate-shaped member, and the longitudinal side of the frame 2A This is a component fitted to the end in the direction. The power supply unit 4 is provided along the front-to-back direction at the longitudinal end of the frame 2A of the screen unit 1A. Specifically, the power supply unit 4 is provided on the end cap 5A (outer surface of the frame) on the work area R side. A through hole 52A is formed at the bottom of the end cap 5A for positioning the power supply unit 4, and the plug socket 40 of the power supply unit 4 is fitted into the through hole 52A.

[0060] In this modified example, the power supply storage unit 4S is provided at the bottom of the frame 2A. Therefore, as shown in Figure 6, the frame 2A has a higher height for the first side wall 211A and the second side wall 212A, and a shorter dimension in the front-to-back direction, compared to the frame 2 of the above embodiment. The locking groove 223 is located approximately in the center of the frame 2A in the front-to-back direction. The power supply storage unit 4S is provided below the locking member 22 within the groove 213 of the frame body 21. The other configurations of the frame body 21 and the locking member 22 are the same as in the above embodiment.

[0061] The installation method for the screen unit 1A and power supply unit 4 of this modified example will now be described. After fixing the frame body 21A onto the top plate 101, the power supply unit 4 is installed. Specifically, the wiring 42 is inserted through the wiring hole 26 of the base 210 and the wiring hole 106 that penetrates the top plate 101 in the vertical direction, and connected to the electrical wiring inside the cabinet 104. The power supply box 41 is temporarily placed on the top plate 101 with the power supply box 41 protruding outward from the longitudinal end of the frame 2A. Subsequently, similar to the embodiment described above, the locking member 22 is locked into the groove 213 of the frame body 21A, and the screen 3 is fixed into the locking groove 223.

[0062] Next, the plug socket 40 is fitted into the through hole 52A of the end cap 5A, the power box 41 is placed inside the power storage compartment 4S of the frame 2A, and the end cap 5A is fitted to the longitudinal end of the frame 2A. With this, the installation of the screen unit 1A and the power supply unit 4 is completed.

[0063] According to this modified screen unit 1A and power supply unit 4, the power supply unit 4 can be arranged on the top plate 101 in a manner that is not visually conspicuous, similar to the above embodiment. Furthermore, according to this modified screen unit 1A and power supply unit 4, the power supply unit 4 can be arranged on the longitudinal end face of the frame 2B on the work area R side. Therefore, the power supply unit 4 is difficult to see from the living space or dining space side, providing a screen unit 1A with a high aesthetic design. In addition, the plug can be easily inserted into the plug socket 40 regardless of whether the user is standing on the first side 101a or the second side 101b of the kitchen counter.

[0064] (Second variation) Figure 7 is a perspective view showing a part of the screen unit 1B and power supply unit 4 of the second modified example. In this modified example, the screen unit 1B differs from the above embodiment in the configuration of the frame 2B and end cap 5B and the position of the power supply unit 4. In this modified example, the power supply unit 4 is provided in a position that protrudes from the screen 3.

[0065] In this modified version, a power supply storage unit 4S is provided on the end cap 5B on the work area R side. The end cap 5B is a roughly rectangular parallelepiped-shaped member with a hollow section and an opening at one end in the horizontal direction. The hollow section becomes the power supply storage unit 4S, and the opening becomes the cap section 51 that covers the longitudinal end of the frame 2B. A through hole 52 is formed on the upper surface of the end cap 5B, penetrating in the vertical direction, and a plug socket 40 is fitted into the through hole 52. Therefore, the plug socket 40 is located longitudinally outside the screen 3 and is positioned upward. The wiring 42 of the power supply unit 4 is inserted into the frame 2B and passed through the wiring hole 26 of the base 210 and the wiring hole 106 of the top plate 101, and connected to the electrical wiring inside the cabinet 104. In this state, the end cap 5B engages with the longitudinal end of the frame 2B.

[0066] With the modified screen unit 1B and power supply unit 4, similar to the above embodiment, the power supply unit 4 can be arranged on the top plate 101 in a manner that is not visually conspicuous. Furthermore, with the modified screen unit 1B and power supply unit 4, the plug socket 40 is provided on the upper part of the frame 2B facing upwards, making it easy for the user to insert the plug into the plug socket 40 regardless of whether they are standing on the first side 101a or the second side 101b of the kitchen counter.

[0067] (Third variation) Figure 8 is a perspective view showing a part of the screen unit 1C and power supply unit 4 of the third modified example. This modified example is similar to the second modified example in that a power supply storage unit 4S is provided in the end cap 5C, but the position of the plug socket 40 differs from that of the second modified example. The frame 2B has the same configuration as the second modified example. A through hole 52 is formed in the longitudinal end face 55 (outer surface of the frame) of the end cap 5C, which is substantially parallel to the thickness direction of the screen 3, and the plug socket 40 is fitted into it. As shown in Figure 8, the plug socket 40 may be positioned laterally along the longitudinal direction of the frame 2B. With the screen unit 1C and power supply unit 4 of this modified example, the power supply unit 4 can be arranged on the top plate 101 in a manner that is not visually conspicuous, similar to the above embodiment. Furthermore, with the kitchen unit of this modified example, since the plug socket 40 is provided on the side of the frame 2B facing upward, it is easy for the user to insert the plug into the plug socket 40 regardless of whether they are standing on the first side 101a or the second side 101b of the kitchen counter.

[0068] (Fourth variation) Figure 9 is a perspective view showing a part of the screen unit 1D and power supply unit 4 of the fourth modified example. Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of the screen unit 1D and power supply unit 4 of the fourth modified example. In the screen unit 1D, the frame body 21D of the frame 2D is longer than the longitudinal dimension of the screen 3, and the power supply unit 4 is provided in the portion that protrudes from the screen 3.

[0069] The frame body 21D is longer in the longitudinal direction than the screen 3. Since the locking member 22 is approximately equal in length to the screen 3, the frame body 21D extends longer than the longitudinal end of the locking member 22. As a result, a space is formed at the longitudinal end of the frame body 21D where the locking member 22 is not positioned within the groove 213. This space functions as the power supply storage section 4S. A through hole 25 is formed in the second side wall 212 of the longitudinally protruding portion of the frame body 21D, and a plug socket 40 is fitted into the through hole 25. Therefore, the plug socket 40 is positioned toward the second side 101b of the top plate 101.

[0070] The same end caps 5 as in the above embodiment are provided at the longitudinal ends of the frame body 21D. A substantially flat top cover 6 is provided above the frame body 21D, between the longitudinal ends of the screen 3 and the end caps 5. The top cover 6 has parallel locking recesses 61, 61 formed at both ends in the front-rear direction on the lower side. Stepped portions 29, 29 are formed at the upper ends 28, 28 of the longitudinal ends of the frame body 21D, and the upper ends 28, 28 enter into the locking recesses 61, 61 of the top cover 6, the lower ends of the frame body 21 come into contact with the stepped portions 29, 29, and the groove portion 213 is covered by the top cover 6. The top cover 6 is detachably attached to the frame body 21D.

[0071] In this modified version of the screen unit 1D and power supply unit 4, the power supply unit 4 can be arranged on the top plate 101 in a manner that is not visually conspicuous, similar to the above embodiment. Furthermore, since the power supply unit 4 is provided in a position that does not interfere with the support structure of the screen 3 in the frame 2D, installation of the power supply unit 4 is easy. In addition, maintenance of the power supply unit 4 can be easily performed by removing the top cover 6.

[0072] (Fifth variation) Figure 11 is a perspective view showing a part of the screen unit 1E and power supply unit 4 of the fifth modification. Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of the screen unit 1E and power supply unit 4 of the fifth modification. In this modification, the screen unit 1E differs from the fourth modification in the position of the plug socket 40 and the configuration of the top cover 6E. The frame body 21E has the same configuration as the fourth modification. In this example, the power supply unit 4 is provided in a portion that is longer than the longitudinal dimension of the screen 3 and protrudes from the screen 3 towards the work area R.

[0073] A through-hole 62 is formed in the upper surface of the top cover 6E, extending vertically. A plug socket 40 is fitted into this through-hole 62. Therefore, the plug socket 40 is positioned facing upward. A support base 45 is provided in the groove 213 of the frame body 21. The power box 41 is placed on the support base 45, and the wiring 42 is inserted through the through-hole 451 of the support base 45, the wiring hole 26 of the base 210, and the wiring hole 106 of the top plate 101, connecting to the electrical wiring inside the cabinet 104. The longitudinal end of E of the frame body 21 is covered with the same end cap 5 as in the above embodiment.

[0074] In this modified version of the screen unit 1E and power supply unit 4, the power supply unit 4 can be arranged on the top plate 101 in a manner that is not visually conspicuous, similar to the above embodiment. Furthermore, since the power supply unit 4 is provided in a position that does not interfere with the support structure of the screen 3 in the frame 2D, installation of the power supply unit 4 is easy. In addition, maintenance of the power supply unit 4 can be easily performed by removing the top cover 6.

[0075] Although the screen units in the above embodiments are shown as having a horizontally elongated frame 2 on the top plate 101, the frame 2 of the screen unit 1 is not limited to this configuration, and any configuration that can erect and support the screen 3 on the top plate 101 is acceptable. For example, two frames made of elongated members, each having a groove formed in the longitudinal direction to sandwich the screen 3, may be erected on the top plate 101 so as to be spaced apart with the grooves facing each other and extending vertically, and the screen 3 may be inserted into each groove of the two frames to support the screen body with the two frames. Even with such various frame configurations, it is acceptable as long as the power box 41 is placed inside the frame and the plug socket 40 is fixed to the frame.

[0076] (Second embodiment) The kitchen unit 100F according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 13 and 14. Figure 13 is a perspective view showing the kitchen unit 100F according to this embodiment. Figure 14 is a perspective view showing a part of the kitchen unit 100F according to this embodiment. In the following description, components similar to those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0077] As shown in Figure 13, the configuration of the screen unit 1F in the kitchen unit 100F according to this embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment.

[0078] In the screen unit 1F, screen 3F is larger than that of the first embodiment. Specifically, screen 3F extends from the top plate 101 to near the lower end of the range hood 107 located above the stove 102. Furthermore, in the screen unit 1F, screen 3F is supported by a frame surrounding all four sides.

[0079] Frame 2F comprises a lower frame 71 (horizontal frame), an upper frame 72 (horizontal frame), and a pair of vertical frames 73 and 74. The lower frame 71 is fixed to the top plate and supports the lower edge (horizontal edge) of screen 3F. The configuration of the lower frame 71 is the same as that of the frame body 21 and locking member 22 of the first embodiment.

[0080] The upper frame 72 is fixed to the lower rear end of the range hood 107, and screen 3F The upper edge (horizontal edge) is clamped to support the screen 3F. The configuration of the part of the upper frame 72 that clamps the screen 3F is the same as the configuration of the frame body 21 and locking member 22 in the first embodiment. A fixing part (not shown) is provided on the upper end surface of the upper frame 72, which is fixed to the lower rear end of the range hood 107.

[0081] The pair of vertical frames 73 and 74 are elongated members with a roughly U-shaped horizontal cross-section, each having a groove formed in the longitudinal direction to sandwich the screen 3F. The pair of vertical frames 73 and 74 are erected on the top plate 101, spaced apart so that their grooves face each other and extending vertically. Frame housings are provided at the upper and lower ends of the grooves of the vertical frames 73 and 74. The longitudinal ends of the lower frame 71 and upper frame 72 are housed within the frame housings. The longitudinal (widthwise) ends (vertical edges) of the screen 3F are inserted into the respective grooves of the vertical frames 73 and 74 to support the screen 3F with the pair of vertical frames 73 and 74.

[0082] Of the pair of vertical frames 73 and 74, a through hole 25F is formed at the lower part of the outer surface 731 (outer surface of the frame) of the vertical frame 73, which is provided on the work area R side on the top plate 101, and is substantially parallel to the thickness direction of the screen 3F.

[0083] The power supply unit 4 is located on the vertical frame 73 of the screen unit 1F. Specifically, it is located on the vertical frame 73 on the work area R side. The power supply unit 4 has a plug socket 40 in a through hole 25F of the vertical frame 73. The plug socket 40 is located along the outer surface 731 which is approximately parallel to the thickness direction of the screen 3F. The power supply unit 4 is positioned higher than the upper end of the lower frame 71.

[0084] In the kitchen unit 100F according to this embodiment, the power supply unit 4 is provided on the vertical frame 73 of the frame, which comprises an upper frame 72, a lower frame 71, and vertical frames 73, 74. Therefore, the power supply unit 4 can be provided at a position spaced above the countertop 101. In other words, because the power supply unit 4 is provided on the vertical frame 73, it can be provided at a higher position than the power supply unit 4 in the first embodiment. As a result, it is possible to prevent liquids, powders, etc. from spilling onto the power supply unit 4 on the countertop 101.

[0085] According to the kitchen unit 100F of this embodiment, the power supply unit 4 is provided on the outer surface 731 of the vertical frame 73 which is substantially parallel to the thickness direction of the screen 3F. Therefore, the power supply unit 4 is difficult to see from the living space or dining space side, and a screen unit 1F with a high aesthetic design can be provided. In addition, the plug can be easily inserted into the plug socket 40 regardless of whether the user is standing on the first side 101a or the second side 101b of the kitchen counter 110.

[0086] In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which kitchen units 100 and 100F are equipped with both a stovetop 102 and a sink 103. However, the kitchen unit according to the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration may be provided in which either a stovetop or a sink is provided, and the screen unit 1 is provided in its vicinity. Also, in the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the power supply unit 4 is provided on the work area R side, but it is not limited to the work area R side.

[0087] In the above embodiments and modifications, an example is shown in which the power supply unit is provided at one end in the longitudinal direction of the frame, but power supply units may also be provided at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the frame. Furthermore, although the above embodiments and modifications show examples in which one or two power supply units are provided, the number of power supply units is not limited thereto.

[0088] In the above embodiment, an example of a kitchen unit 100 having a countertop 101 and cabinet 104 that are roughly rectangular in plan view was shown, but the shapes of the countertop 101 and cabinet 104 are not limited to this. It is not limited to this. For example, it may be a tabletop that is approximately square in plan view and a cabinet that supports this tabletop, or a tabletop that has an arc-shaped portion on part of its periphery. If the tabletop is not rectangular, the longitudinal direction in the above description is set relative to the longitudinal direction of the screen unit.

[0089] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments, and design modifications and the like are also included within the scope of the gist of the present invention. Furthermore, the components shown in the above-described embodiments and their respective modifications can be combined in any way appropriate. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0090] 1,1F Screen Unit (Shielding Panel Unit) Frames 2, 2A, 2B, 2D, 2F 3,3F Screen (Panel) 4 Power supply section 5A End cap (outer side of frame) 55 End face (outer side of frame) 71 Bottom frame (horizontal frame) 72 Top frame (horizontal frame) 73,74 Vertical Frames 101 Top plate 102 stove 103 Sink 100 Kitchen Units 731 Outer surface (outer surface of the frame)

Claims

1. A kitchen counter with a countertop, A shielding panel unit erected on the countertop near a stove or sink on the kitchen counter, A power supply unit is provided in the shielding panel unit and can be powered when a plug is inserted, A kitchen unit characterized by having the following features.

2. The aforementioned shielding panel unit is The panel body and The system includes a frame that is mounted on the top plate and supports and fixes the panel body, The power supply unit is provided in the frame. The kitchen unit according to claim 1.

3. The power supply unit is provided in the frame located below the panel body. The kitchen unit according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned frame is A vertical frame provided on the vertical edge of the panel body, The panel body comprises a horizontal frame provided on the horizontal edge, The power supply unit is provided in the vertical frame. The kitchen unit according to claim 2.

5. The power supply unit is provided on the outer surface of the frame, which is substantially parallel to the thickness direction of the panel body. The kitchen unit according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

6. The power supply unit is provided on the side of the frame of the shielding panel unit that is opposite to the stove or sink side. The kitchen unit according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

7. The kitchen unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the end of the shielding panel unit on the side opposite to the stove or sink is spaced apart from the building wall.

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