A cooktop

Abstract

A cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a main MCU that receives user input, an inverter driven to heat a cooking vessel based on the user input, an inverter MCU that controls the inverter, a wireless communication module that receives update information from the outside, a power supply unit that receives external power and supplies it to at least one of the main MCU, the inverter, the inverter MCU, and the wireless communication module, and a switch connected between the external power and the inverter, wherein the switch can be turned on in the heating mode of the cooking vessel and turned off in the update mode.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cooktop. More specifically, it relates to an upgradeable cooktop. Background Technology

[0003] Various types of cooking appliances are used to heat food in homes and restaurants. Recently, devices that heat cooking vessels using electricity have become widely available. Hereinafter, such a device that heats cooking vessels using electricity is referred to as a cooktop.

[0004] Methods of heating an object using electricity are broadly divided into resistance heating and induction heating. Resistance heating is a method of heating by transferring heat generated when an electric current is passed through a metal resistance wire or a non-metallic heating element, such as silicon carbide, to a cooking vessel through radiation or conduction. Induction heating, on the other hand, is a method of heating the cooking vessel itself by generating eddy currents in a cooking vessel made of metal components using a magnetic field generated around a coil when high-frequency power of a predetermined magnitude is applied to the coil.

[0005] Meanwhile, such a cooktop may be equipped with firmware that stores algorithms for automatically adjusting cooking time, cooking temperature, etc., according to the purpose of cooking, type of food, etc., and methods for outputting information to a display. Additionally, such firmware may require updates.

[0006] However, there is a problem where user inconvenience becomes significant if the user has to manually download the data required for an update whenever one is needed. Therefore, automatic updates that minimize user inconvenience are required. Additionally, since power loss increases if all components continue to consume standby power even when the cooktop is turned off for automatic updates, minimizing standby power may be required. The problem to be solved

[0008] The present disclosure aims to provide a cooktop capable of automatically updating firmware at all times regardless of the power status.

[0009] The present disclosure aims to provide a cooktop that minimizes the increase in unnecessary standby power for automatic firmware updates.

[0010] The present disclosure aims to provide a cooktop that minimizes the update time and improves stability when performing a firmware update. means of solving the problem

[0012] A cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a main MCU that receives user input, an inverter driven to heat a cooking vessel based on the user input, an inverter MCU that controls the inverter, a wireless communication module that receives update information from the outside, a power supply unit that receives external power and supplies it to at least one of the main MCU, the inverter MCU, and the wireless communication module, and a switch connected between the external power and the inverter, wherein the switch can be turned on in the heating mode of the cooking vessel and turned off in the update mode.

[0013] The update mode may be an operation mode for updating the firmware of at least one of the main MCU or the inverter MCU.

[0014] The main MCU controls the switch to off when the power of the cooktop is turned off and operates in a standby state, and when the power of the cooktop is turned off and operates in update mode, it can switch from the standby state to the wake-up state.

[0015] The main MCU can control the inverter MCU to a wake-up state when the power of the cooktop is off and it operates in update mode.

[0016] The inverter MCU is controlled to a sleep state when the power of the cooktop is turned off, and can be switched from the sleep state to the wake-up state when operating in the update mode.

[0017] The cooktop further includes a display MCU that controls a display to output the status of the cooktop, and the main MCU controls the display MCU to a sleep state when the power of the cooktop is turned off, and can switch the display MCU from the sleep state to a wake-up state when the power of the cooktop is turned off and operating in update mode.

[0018] The main MCU can sequentially perform updates of the main MCU, updates of the inverter MCU, and updates of the display MCU.

[0019] The main MCU can control the inverter MCU and the display MCU, respectively, to a wake-up state according to the update order.

[0020] The main MCU can simultaneously perform updates of the main MCU, updates of the inverter MCU, and updates of the display MCU.

[0021] When the main MCU operates in update mode, it can simultaneously control the inverter MCU and the display MCU to a wake-up state.

[0022] The cooktop may further include a first DC / DC converter that converts the power of the power supply unit and supplies it to the main MCU, a second DC / DC converter that converts the power of the power supply unit and supplies it to the inverter MCU, and a third DC / DC converter that converts the power of the power supply unit and supplies it to the display MCU.

[0023] The main MCU transmits a wake-up signal to the second DC / DC converter so that power is supplied only to the inverter MCU during the update mode, and power may not be supplied to the inverter during the update mode.

[0024] The main MCU transmits a wake-up signal to the third DC / DC converter so that power is supplied only to the display MCU during the update mode, and power may not be supplied to the inverter during the update mode.

[0025] The main MCU operates in a standby state when the power is turned off, and can be switched from the standby state to a wake-up state when performing an update mode.

[0026] The main MCU can transmit a sleep signal or a wake-up signal to the second and third DC / DC converters and perform UART communication with the inverter MCU and the display MCU. Effects of the invention

[0028] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is an advantage in that a structure is implemented to enable firmware updates even when the power is off, and most of the components are controlled to a sleep state when updates are not being performed, thereby minimizing standby power.

[0029] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is an advantage in that product stability can be ensured by performing retries a predetermined number of times when an update fails, and using the existing program even if it fails.

[0030] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, since the firmware update is automatically performed during non-use time, there is an advantage of minimizing user inconvenience. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0032] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a conventional cooktop. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a drawing showing the operating state when the power to the cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is off and no update is performed. FIG. 4 is a drawing showing the operating state when the power of the cooktop is off and the inverter module is updated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the operating state when the power to the cooktop is off and the display module is updated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a drawing showing the operating state when the power to the cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is off and the update of all modules is performed simultaneously. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of a cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for sequentially updating a cooktop module by module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method in which a cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure performs updates for all modules simultaneously. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operation when a cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure fails to update. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0033] Hereinafter, embodiments related to the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. The suffixes "module" and "part" for components used in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the ease of drafting the specification and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

[0035] In the present disclosure, a cooktop is a device for heating food and can heat an object to be heated in which food is contained. In particular, the cooktop can heat an object to be heated using electricity, and at least one of a resistance heating method or an induction heating method may be used. That is, in the present disclosure, the cooktop is not limited to its mode of operation.

[0036] Such cooktops are equipped with firmware and can operate through a program included in the firmware. Additionally, the cooktop's firmware can be updated. However, in the case of conventional cooktops, there is a problem in that updates are impossible when the power is off because the auxiliary power of the inverter is turned off due to standby power issues. Specifically, with reference to FIG. 1, user inconvenience caused by firmware updates in conventional cooktops will be explained.

[0037] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a conventional cooktop.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 1, a conventional cooktop (1) includes a main PCB (100), an inverter PCB (200), and a switch (300). The main PCB (100) includes a main power supply (101), a main MCU (103), and a wireless communication module (105). The inverter PCB (200) may include an inverter (201), an inverter MCU (203), and an inverter power supply (205).

[0039] Meanwhile, Figure 1 is merely an example illustrating a configuration to explain the problems of a conventional cooktop.

[0040] The main power supply (100) may be a switched mode power supply (SMPS). The main power supply may convert external power into DC power and supply it to at least one of the main MCU (103) or the wireless communication module (105).

[0041] The main MCU (103) can control the configuration integrated on the main PCB (100) and the operation of the cooktop (1).

[0042] The wireless communication module (105) may be a WiFi modem, but it is reasonable to assume that it is not limited thereto as it is merely exemplary. The wireless communication module (105) can transmit and receive wireless signals with an external server (2). For example, the wireless communication module (105) can receive data for a firmware update from the server (2).

[0043] The main MCU (103) can receive data for a firmware update received by the wireless communication module (105). The main MCU (103) can perform a firmware update based on the update data for the main MCU. Additionally, the main MCU (103) can transmit update data for the inverter MCU to the inverter MCU (203).

[0044] The inverter MCU (203) can perform updates based on data received from the main MCU (103). Meanwhile, the inverter MCU (203) can perform updates when power is supplied through the inverter power supply (205).

[0045] The inverter (201) may be an electrical conversion device for converting a direct current (DC) component into an alternating current (AC) component. The inverter (201) can obtain a desired voltage and frequency output value through a switching element, a control circuit, etc.

[0046] The inverter MCU (203) can control the configuration integrated on the inverter PCB (200).

[0047] The inverter power supply (205) may be a switched mode power supply (SMPS). The inverter power supply (205) may convert external power into DC power and supply it to at least one of the inverter (201) or the inverter MCU (203).

[0048] The switch (300) can be connected between the main PCB (100) and the inverter PCB (200). The switch (300) can be a Gap Relay.

[0049] The switch (300) can be controlled by the main MCU (103). When the switch (300) is turned on, the inverter power supply (205) can convert external power and deliver it to the inverter (201) or the inverter MCU (203). When the switch (300) is turned off, power may not be supplied to the inverter PCB (200). The switch (300) can be controlled to be off when the power of the cooktop (1) is off, and to be on when the power of the cooktop (1) is on.

[0050] Accordingly, in the case of a conventional cooktop (1), there is a problem in that firmware updates are not possible in the inverter MCU (203) when the power is off. That is, in the case of a conventional cooktop (1), firmware updates are possible in the inverter MCU (203) only when the power is on. When a user turns on the power of the cooktop (1) to use the product, if a firmware update is performed in the inverter MCU (203), the user experiences the inconvenience of not being able to use the product while the update is in progress. Meanwhile, there is a problem in that standby power increases when the switch (300) is controlled to ON even when the power of the cooktop (1) is off.

[0051] Therefore, the present disclosure aims to provide a cooktop (1) that allows firmware updates even when the cooktop (1) is powered off, while minimizing standby power. That is, the present disclosure aims to provide a cooktop (1) that allows updates at any time regardless of the power status.

[0053] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] A cooktop (1) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include at least some or all of a switch (3), a main PCB (10), an inverter PCB (20), a display PCB (30), and a wireless communication PCB (40).

[0055] The main PCB (10) may include a main MCU (12) and a first DC / DC converter (14). That is, the main MCU (12) and the first DC / DC converter (14) may be integrated into the main PCB (10).

[0056] The main MCU (12) may be a main Micro controller unit. The main MCU (12) may receive user input. Specifically, the cooktop (1) may further be equipped with an input unit (not shown) for receiving user input, and the input unit (not shown) may be implemented as a physical key or button or a touch screen. The main MCU (12) may receive user input received through the input unit (not shown). The main MCU (12) may control the operation of the cooktop (1) according to the user input.

[0057] The main MCU (12) can control the configuration of the main PCB (10) and the operation of the cooktop (1).

[0058] More specifically, the main MCU (12) can transmit control signals to the first to third DC / DC converters (14)(24)(34). For example, the main MCU (12) can transmit a sleep signal, a standby signal, or a wake-up signal to the first to third DC / DC converters (14)(24)(34). In particular, the main MCU (12) can transmit a sleep signal or a wake-up signal to the second and third DC / DC converters (24)(34).

[0059] The main MCU (12) can communicate with at least one of the inverter MCU (22), the display MCU (22), or the wireless communication module (42). For example, the main MCU (12) can perform Universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART) communication with the inverter MCU (22), the display MCU (22), or the wireless communication module (42). The main MCU (12) can transmit data required for a firmware update to each of the inverter MCU (22), the display MCU (22), or the wireless communication module (42).

[0060] The first DC / DC converter (14) can convert the DC power converted from the power supply (26) into DC power suitable for the main MCU (12) and supply it to the main MCU (12).

[0061] The inverter PCB (20) may include at least some or all of the inverter (21), inverter MCU (22), second DC / DC converter (24), power supply (26), and DC fan motor (28). That is, at least some or all of the inverter (21), inverter MCU (22), second DC / DC converter (24), power supply (26), and DC fan motor (28) may be integrated into the inverter PCB (20).

[0062] The inverter (21) can obtain desired voltage and frequency output values ​​through switching elements, control circuits, etc. The inverter (21) can be driven to heat an object to be heated, i.e., a cooking vessel, based on user input.

[0063] When the cooktop (1) is an induction heating type, the inverter (21) can perform the function of switching the voltage applied to the working coil (not shown) so that a high-frequency current flows through the working coil (not shown). The inverter (21) may include a semiconductor switch, and the semiconductor switch may be an IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor) or a SiC device, but since this is merely an example, it is reasonable to assume that it is not limited thereto. By driving the semiconductor switch, the inverter (21) causes a high-frequency current to flow through the working coil (not shown), and accordingly, a high-frequency magnetic field is formed in the working coil (not shown).

[0064] The inverter MCU (22) may be an inverter Micro controller Unit. The inverter MCU (22) can control the configuration integrated on the inverter PCB (20). In particular, the inverter MCU (22) can control the inverter (21).

[0065] The second DC / DC converter (24) can convert the DC power converted from the power supply (26) into DC power suitable for the inverter MCU (22) and supply it to the inverter MCU (22).

[0066] The power supply unit (26) may be a switched mode power supply (SMPS). The power supply unit (26) may receive external power and supply it to at least one of the main MCU (12), inverter MCU (22), and wireless communication module (42). To this end, the power supply unit (26) may convert the external power into DC power and supply it to at least one of the first to third DC / DC converters (14)(24)(34).

[0067] The first DC / DC converter (14) can convert the power of the power supply unit (26) and supply it to the main MCU (12). The second DC / DC converter (24) can convert the power of the power supply unit (26) and supply it to the inverter MCU (22). The third DC / DC converter (34) can convert the power of the power supply unit (26) and supply it to the display MCU (32).

[0068] The DC fan motor (28) may be configured to drive a fan to cool the heat generated from the power supply (26).

[0069] The display PCB (30) may include a display MCU (32) and a third DC / DC converter (34). The display MCU (32) and the third DC / DC converter (34) may be integrated into the display PCB (30).

[0070] The display MCU (32) may be a display microcontroller unit. The display MCU (32) can control the operation of a display (not shown) provided in the cooktop (1). The display MCU (32) can control the display (not shown) so that information related to the operation of the cooktop (1) is output.

[0071] The third DC / DC converter (34) can convert the DC power converted from the power supply unit (26) into DC power suitable for the display MCU (32) and supply it to the display MCU (32). Meanwhile, according to an embodiment, the third DC / DC converter (34) may receive DC power from the first DC / DC converter (14) and supply it to the display MCU (32).

[0072] The wireless communication PCB (40) may include a wireless communication module (42). That is, the wireless communication module (42) may be integrated into the wireless communication PCB (40).

[0073] The wireless communication module (42) may be a WiFi modem, but it is reasonable to assume that it is not limited thereto as it is merely exemplary. The wireless communication module (105) can transmit and receive wireless signals with an external server (2). For example, the wireless communication module (105) can receive data for a firmware update from the server (2). The wireless communication module (42) can receive update information from the outside.

[0074] The switch (3) can be connected between an external power source and an inverter (21). The switch (3) can be controlled by a main MCU (12). The main MCU (12) can control the switch (3) according to the operating mode of the cooktop (1).

[0075] The cooktop (1) can operate in various operating modes. For example, the cooktop (1) can operate in a preparation mode, a heating mode, an update mode, etc.

[0076] The ready mode may mean a state in which the power of the cooktop (1) is turned on but no operation is performed. That is, the ready mode may be a state in which the power of the cooktop (1) is turned on and power is supplied to all components including the inverter (21), but the inverter (21) is not operating.

[0077] The heating mode may refer to a state in which heat is applied to a cooking vessel. That is, the heating mode may be a state in which the power of the cooktop (1) is turned on and the inverter (21) is operating.

[0078] Update mode may refer to a state in which firmware is updated. In update mode, power may be selectively supplied to each module currently being updated.

[0079] Here, a module may refer to a set of parts as a functional unit constituting the cooktop (1). For example, the modules of the cooktop (1) may include a main module, an inverter module, a display module, a wireless communication module, and a power supply module. The main module may include at least a main MCU (12), the inverter module may include at least an inverter (21) and an inverter MCU (22), the display module may include at least a display (not shown) and a display MCU (32), the wireless communication module may include at least a Wi-Fi modem, and the power supply module may include at least a power supply unit (26) and first to third DC / DC converters (14)(24)(34).

[0080] The switch (3) can be controlled according to the operating mode of the cooktop (1). The switch (3) can be turned on when the cooking vessel is in heating mode and turned off when it is in update mode. That is, the main MCU (12) can control the switch (3) to be on in heating mode and to be off in update mode.

[0081] Meanwhile, the cooktop (1) operates in a preparation mode, a heating mode, or an update mode when the power is on, and can operate in an update mode when the power is off. That is, the update mode can be executed not only when the power of the cooktop (1) is off, but also when the power is on.

[0082] As the switch (3) is controlled to off in update mode, the power consumed unnecessarily by the inverter (21) in update mode can be minimized.

[0083] Meanwhile, the update mode may be an operation mode for updating the firmware of at least one of the main MCU (12), the inverter MCU (22), or the display MCU (32). If the cooktop (1) does not include a display module, the update mode may be an operation mode for updating the firmware of at least one of the main MCU (12) or the inverter MCU (22).

[0084] In update mode, the firmware of each module can be updated simultaneously or sequentially.

[0085] Next, with reference to FIGS. 3 to 6, the operation status of each configuration in update mode will be described.

[0086] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing the operating state when the power to the cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is off and no update is performed.

[0087] When the power of the cooktop (1) is off and the update is not in progress, power may be supplied only to the main MCU (12) and the wireless communication module (42). In particular, the main MCU (12) and the wireless communication module (42) may always be in a standby state.

[0088] The standby state may indicate a state in which minimal power is supplied so that operation can be started immediately at any time. That is, it may be a state in which the power supply module supplies power only to the main MCU (12) and the wireless communication module (42).

[0089] Meanwhile, power can be supplied as shown in FIG. 3 even when the main module is in an updated state. However, when the main module is updated, more power can be supplied than when it is in a standby state.

[0090] The main MCU (12) controls the switch (3) to turn off when the power of the cooktop (1) is turned off and operates in a standby state, and when the power of the cooktop (1) is turned off and operates in update mode, it can be switched from the standby state to the wake-up state.

[0091] That is, when an update of the main MCU (12) is performed, the main MCU (12) and the wireless communication module (42) are woken up, and data regarding the update of the main MCU stored in the wireless communication module (42) can be transmitted to the main MCU (12). The main MCU (12) can proceed with the update based on the data transmitted from the wireless communication module (42).

[0092] When the power of the cooktop (1) is off and the update is not proceeding, and when the update is proceeding in the main MCU (12), the power supply (26) and the first DC / DC converter (14) can operate.

[0093] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing the operating state when the power of the cooktop is off and the inverter module is updated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] When the power of the cooktop (1) is off and the update is not proceeding, power is not supplied to the inverter MCU (22) and the second DC / DC converter (24) that supplies power to the inverter MCU (22). That is, when the power of the cooktop (1) is off and the update is not proceeding, the inverter MCU (22) and the second DC / DC converter (24) may be in a sleep state. A sleep state may indicate a state in which power is not supplied.

[0095] Meanwhile, when the main MCU (12) initiates an update of the inverter module, it may transmit a wake-up signal to the second DC / DC converter (24). The wake-up signal may be a control signal for switching the sleep state to a wake-up state. The main MCU (12) may control the inverter MCU (22) to a wake-up state when the power of the cooktop (1) is off and it operates in update mode.

[0096] The second DC / DC converter (24) can be switched from a sleep state to a wake-up state upon receiving a wake-up signal from the main MCU (12). In the wake-up state, the second DC / DC converter (24) can receive power from the power supply (26) and supply it to the inverter MCU (22).

[0097] The inverter MCU (22) can be switched from a sleep state to a wake-up state while receiving power from the second DC / DC converter (24). In update mode, the inverter MCU (22) can receive update data for the inverter MCU stored in the wireless communication module (40) through the main MCU (12). The inverter MCU (22) can perform updates based on the data received through the main MCU (12).

[0098] That is, the inverter MCU (22) is controlled to be in a sleep state when the power of the cooktop (1) is turned off, and can be switched from the sleep state to the wake-up state when operating in update mode. The main MCU (12) transmits a wake-up signal to the second DC / DC converter (24) so ​​that power is supplied only to the inverter MCU (22) in update mode, and power may not be supplied to the inverter (21) in update mode.

[0099] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the operating state when the power to the cooktop is off and the display module is updated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0100] The display MCU (32) can control a display (not shown) to output the status of the cooktop (1). The main MCU (32) can control the display MCU (32) to sleep when the power of the cooktop (1) is off, and can switch the display MCU (32) from sleep to wake-up state when the power of the cooktop (1) is off and it is operating in update mode.

[0101] Specifically, when the power of the cooktop (1) is off and the update is not proceeding, power is not supplied to the display MCU (32) and the third DC / DC converter (34) that supplies power to the display MCU (32). That is, when the power of the cooktop (1) is off and the update is not proceeding, the display MCU (32) and the third DC / DC converter (34) may be in a sleep state.

[0102] Meanwhile, when the main MCU (12) initiates an update of the display module, it may transmit a wake-up signal to the third DC / DC converter (34). The wake-up signal may be a control signal for switching the sleep state to a wake-up state.

[0103] The third DC / DC converter (34) can be switched from a sleep state to a wake-up state upon receiving a wake-up signal from the main MCU (12). In the wake-up state, the third DC / DC converter (34) can receive power from the power supply (26) and supply it to the display MCU (32).

[0104] The display MCU (32) can be switched from a sleep state to a wake-up state while receiving power from the third DC / DC converter (34). In update mode, the display MCU (32) can receive update data for the display MCU stored in the wireless communication module (40) through the main MCU (12). The display MCU (32) can perform updates based on the data received through the main MCU (12).

[0105] The main MCU (12) transmits a wake-up signal to the third DC / DC converter (34) so ​​that power is supplied only to the display MCU (32) in update mode, and power may not be supplied to the inverter (21) in update mode.

[0106] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing the operating state when the power to the cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is off and the update of all modules is performed simultaneously.

[0107] While the power of the cooktop (1) is off, updates to the main module, inverter module, and display module can be performed simultaneously. In this case, the first to third DC / DC converters (14)(24)(34) can receive power from the power supply unit (26) and supply it to the main MCU (12), inverter MCU (22), and display MCU (32), respectively. The main MCU (12) can be switched from a standby state to a wake-up state, and the inverter MCU (22) and display MCU (32) can be switched from a sleep state to a wake-up state.

[0108] The main MCU (12) can perform an update by receiving data regarding the update of the main MCU stored in the wireless communication module (42). The inverter MCU (22) can perform an update by receiving update data regarding the inverter MCU stored in the wireless communication module (40) through the main MCU (12). The display MCU (32) can perform an update by receiving update data regarding the display MCU stored in the wireless communication module (40) through the main MCU (12).

[0109] As described above, the cooktop (1) can perform updates for each module when the power is off. That is, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cooktop (1) minimizes or cuts off the power supply to the inverter (21) and each MCU (12)(22)(32) when the power is off, and through an SMPS structure design that minimizes standby power, where power is selectively supplied to the corresponding MCU only during updates, firmware updates can be performed at all times, thus providing the advantage of improved usability. In addition, the cooktop (1) has the advantage of being able to perform Firmware Over The Air (FOTA) through a wireless communication module (42).

[0111] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of a cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0112] The main MCU (12) can determine whether to receive an update request from the server (2) (S10).

[0113] The main MCU (12) can determine whether an update request has been received from the server (2). Specifically, the main MCU (12) can receive an update request from the server (2) through the wireless communication module (42). Thus, the main MCU (12) can determine whether an update request has been received from the server (2) through the wireless communication module (42).

[0114] If the main MCU (12) has not received an update request, it can continue to determine whether to receive an update request.

[0115] When the main MCU (12) receives an update request, it can set the update time (S20).

[0116] According to one embodiment, the main MCU (12) can receive user input and set the update time.

[0117] According to another embodiment, the main MCU (12) can set the non-use time of the cooktop (1) as the update time. The main MCU (12) can obtain the non-use time of the cooktop (1), and there may be various ways to obtain the non-use time. For example, the main MCU (12) can obtain the early morning hours from 1:00 AM to 6:00 AM as the non-use time, but since the time period is merely exemplary, it is reasonable not to be limited thereto. In this way, when the update is performed during the non-use time, there is an advantage that the problem of the user being hindered from using the cooktop (1) due to the update is minimized.

[0118] The main MCU (12) can perform updates at a set time (S30).

[0119] The main MCU (12) can perform updates at the set update time according to the update request.

[0120] When the main MCU (12) performs an update, it can perform the update sequentially for each module or simultaneously for all modules.

[0121] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method in which a cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure performs updates sequentially by module, and FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method in which a cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure performs updates for all modules simultaneously.

[0122] FIGS. 8 and FIGS. 9 may be flowcharts illustrating the method of performing FIGS. 7.

[0123] First, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the main MCU (12) can sequentially perform updates of the main MCU (12), updates of the inverter MCU (22), and updates of the display MCU (32). To do this, the main MCU (12) can control the inverter MCU (22) and the display MCU (32) to a wake-up state according to the update order.

[0124] The wireless communication module (42) can receive update information for the nth module from the server (2) (S41).

[0125] n can be 1, 2, 3 … N. N can be the total number of modules constituting the cooktop (1) or less. Hereinafter, N is assumed to be 3. And, update information for the nth module is data for updating each module, and may mean updater data for the MCU of each module.

[0126] When the wireless communication module (42) initiates an update, it can first receive update information for the first module. The first module may be the main module, but this is merely an example for convenience of explanation.

[0127] The wireless communication module (42) can store update information for the received first module (S43).

[0128] The main MCU (12) can perform an update of the main module based on the update information for the first module stored in the wireless communication module (42).

[0129] The main MCU (12) can determine whether updates for all modules have been completed (S45).

[0130] If the main MCU (12) has not completed updates for all modules, it can control the wireless communication module (42) to receive update information for the next module from the server.

[0131] The wireless communication module (42) can receive update information for the second module. The second module may be an inverter module, but this is merely an example for convenience of explanation.

[0132] The wireless communication module (42) stores update information for the received second module, and the main MCU (12) can perform an update of the inverter module based on the update information for the second module stored in the wireless communication module (42).

[0133] The main MCU (12) can determine whether updates for all modules have been completed and control the wireless communication module (42) to receive update information for the next module from the server.

[0134] If the main MCU (12) has not completed updates for all modules, it can control the wireless communication module (42) to receive update information for the next module from the server.

[0135] The wireless communication module (42) can receive update information for the third module. The third module may be a display module, but this is merely an example for convenience of explanation.

[0136] The wireless communication module (42) stores update information for the received third module, and the main MCU (12) can perform an update of the display module based on the update information for the third module stored in the wireless communication module (42).

[0137] The main MCU (12) can determine whether updates for all modules have been completed.

[0138] When the main MCU (12) has completed updating all modules, it can terminate the update (S47).

[0139] In this way, performing updates sequentially by module has the advantage of ensuring the stability of updates for each module. Additionally, if the power is turned on while the cooktop (1) is performing an update, the main MCU (12) can terminate only the ongoing update and operate according to user input, and when the power is turned off, it can perform the remaining updates. That is, when the main MCU (12) performs updates sequentially by module, it has the advantage of making it easier to stop and restart updates depending on user input or data environment.

[0140] Next, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the main MCU (12) may simultaneously perform updates of the main MCU (12), updates of the inverter MCU (22), and updates of the display MCU (32). To this end, when the main MCU (12) operates in update mode, it may simultaneously control the inverter MCU (22) and the display MCU (32) to a wake-up state.

[0141] The wireless communication module (42) can receive update information for all modules from the server (2) (S51).

[0142] For example, the wireless communication module (42) can simultaneously receive update information for the first to third modules from the server (2).

[0143] The wireless communication module (42) can store update information for all modules received from the server (2) (S53).

[0144] The main MCU (12) can perform updates for all modules based on update information for all stored modules.

[0145] The main MCU (12) can determine whether updates for all modules have been completed (S55).

[0146] If the main MCU (12) has not completed updating all modules, it can receive update information for all modules again from the server (2).

[0147] The main MCU (12) can terminate the update when the update for all modules is completed (S57).

[0148] As such, performing updates for all modules simultaneously offers the advantage of reducing the time required for the update. In other words, performing updates for all modules at the same time minimizes the update time.

[0150] In FIGS. 8 and 9, when the main MCU (12) finishes updating, it can send a sleep signal to the second and third DC / DC converters (24) (34). Upon receiving the sleep signal, the second and third DC / DC converters (24) (34) can transition from a wake-up state to a sleep state. The second and third DC / DC converters (24) (34) may not receive power while in the sleep state. Therefore, the second and third DC / DC converters (24) (34) may not supply power to the inverter MCU (22) and the display MCU (32). Accordingly, the inverter MCU (22) and the display MCU (32) can also be controlled to a sleep state after the update ends. Additionally, the main MCU (12) can transition the second and third DC / DC converters (24) (34) from a wake-up state to a standby state after sending the sleep signal.

[0152] Meanwhile, the cooktop (1) may fail to update at least one module.

[0153] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operation when a cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure fails to update.

[0154] The main MCU (12) can detect a failure to receive or store update information for at least one module while performing an update or after the performance of the update has ended (S61).

[0155] The main MCU (12) can complete the update for the module if no failure to receive or store update information is detected (S62).

[0156] Meanwhile, when the main MCU (12) detects a failure in receiving or storing update information, it can determine whether the number of failures is greater than or equal to a preset threshold (S63).

[0157] Specifically, the main MCU (12) can count the number of failures whenever a failure to receive or store update information is detected. After counting the number of failures, the main MCU (12) can determine whether the counted number of failures is greater than or equal to a preset threshold.

[0158] The main MCU (12) can use the existing program if the number of failures is greater than or equal to a preset threshold (S67).

[0159] If the number of failures is less than a preset threshold, the main MCU (12) can re-perform receiving or storing update information for the failed module (S65).

[0160] In this way, the cooktop (1) according to the embodiment of the present disclosure has the advantage of ensuring product stability by attempting to repeat the update several times when it fails, and returning to the existing program if it fails.

[0162] The above description is merely an illustrative explanation of the technical concept of the present disclosure, and those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains may make various modifications and variations within the scope of the essential characteristics of the present disclosure without departing from its nature.

[0163] Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed in this disclosure are intended to explain, not limit, the technical concept of this disclosure, and the scope of the technical concept of this disclosure is not limited by these embodiments.

[0164] The scope of protection of the present disclosure shall be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical ideas within the equivalent scope shall be interpreted as being included within the scope of rights of the present disclosure.

Claims

Claim 1 A cooktop comprising: a main MCU receiving user input; an inverter driven for heating a cooking vessel based on the user input; an inverter MCU controlling the inverter; a wireless communication module receiving update information from the outside; a power supply unit receiving external power and supplying it to at least one of the main MCU, the inverter MCU, and the wireless communication module; and a switch connected between the external power and the inverter, wherein the switch is turned on in the heating mode of the cooking vessel and turned off in the update mode. Claim 2 A cooktop according to claim 1, wherein the update mode is an operation mode for updating the firmware of at least one of the main MCU or the inverter MCU. Claim 3 In claim 1, the main MCU controls the switch to off when the power of the cooktop is turned off, and the cooktop operates in a standby state. Claim 4 In claim 3, the main MCU controls the inverter MCU to a wake-up state when the power of the cooktop is off and operating in update mode. Claim 5 In claim 4, the inverter MCU is controlled to a sleep state when the power of the cooktop is turned off, and the cooktop switches from the sleep state to the wake-up state when operating in the update mode. Claim 6 A cooktop according to claim 1, further comprising a display MCU that controls a display to output the state of the cooktop, wherein the main MCU controls the display MCU to a sleep state when the power of the cooktop is turned off, and switches the display MCU from the sleep state to a wake-up state when the power of the cooktop is turned off and it operates in update mode. Claim 7 In claim 6, the main MCU sequentially performs an update of the main MCU, an update of the inverter MCU, and an update of the display MCU. Claim 8 In claim 7, the main MCU controls the inverter MCU and the display MCU, respectively, to a wake-up state according to the update order. Claim 9 A cooktop according to claim 8, further comprising: a first DC / DC converter that converts the power of the power supply and supplies it to the main MCU; a second DC / DC converter that converts the power of the power supply and supplies it to the inverter MCU; and a third DC / DC converter that converts the power of the power supply and supplies it to the display MCU. Claim 10 In claim 9, the main MCU transmits a wake-up signal to the second DC / DC converter so that power is supplied only to the inverter MCU in update mode, and the cooktop in which power is not supplied to the inverter in update mode. Claim 11 In claim 9, the main MCU transmits a wake-up signal to the third DC / DC converter so that power is supplied only to the display MCU in update mode, and the cooktop in which power is not supplied to the inverter in update mode. Claim 12 A cooktop according to claim 6, wherein the main MCU simultaneously performs an update of the main MCU, an update of the inverter MCU, and an update of the display MCU. Claim 13 A cooktop according to claim 12, wherein the main MCU controls the inverter MCU and the display MCU to a wake-up state simultaneously when operating in update mode. Claim 14 A cooktop according to claim 1, wherein the main MCU operates in a standby state when the power is turned off, and switches from the standby state to a wake-up state when an update mode is performed. Claim 15 A cooktop according to claim 11, wherein the main MCU transmits a sleep signal or a wake-up signal to the second and third DC / DC converters and performs UART communication with the inverter MCU and the display MCU.

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