Cooking appliance and method of controlling the same

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a cooking appliance. The cooking appliance is characterized by including: a cavity forming a first cooking chamber therein, an upper module forming a second cooking chamber disposed above the cavity, and a convection module configured to supply hot air to the second cooking chamber.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0039372, filed on 2025 Mar. 27, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a cooking appliance.BACKGROUND

[0003] A cooking appliance is one of the home appliances for cooking food, and is an appliance installed in a kitchen area and used for cooking food according to the user's intention. Such cooking appliances can be classified in various ways depending on the heat source, shape, and type of fuel used.

[0004] In classifying cooking appliances by the way of cooking, they can be classified into open-type and closed-type cooking appliances, depending on the type of space where food is placed. Closed-type cooking appliances include ovens, microwave ovens, etc., while open-type cooking appliances include cooktops, hobs, griddles, etc.

[0005] A closed-type cooking appliance is a cooking appliance that seals the space in which food is placed and heats the sealed space to cook the food. A closed-type cooking appliance is provided with a cooking chamber, which is a space where food is placed and that is sealed when the food is to be cooked. This cooking chamber serves as the space where the food is actually cooked.

[0006] A door, which selectively opens and closes the cooking chamber, is provided pivotally in a closed-type cooking appliance. The door is pivotally installed in a main body, which has the cooking chamber formed therein, via a door hinge provided between the main body and the door. This door can selectively open and close the cooking chamber by pivoting around the portion coupled with the main body via the door hinge.

[0007] A heat source is provided in the interior space of the cooking chamber, which is opened and closed by the door, and heats the cooking chamber. A gas burner, an electric heater, or the like can be used as such a heat source.

[0008] An oven, which is one of the closed-type cooking appliances, typically has a single cooking chamber. The cooking chamber provided in the oven is formed to have the largest possible volume within the oven in order to receive food of various sizes.

[0009] However, ovens with this type of cooking chamber must raise the temperature of the entire cooking chamber, even when cooking food that is much smaller than the volume of the cooking chamber. Such ovens consume a large amount of energy for a long time, even when cooking food that is small in size.

[0010] That is, typical ovens with a single cooking chamber of large volume can only cook food of various sizes, but cannot offer the function of saving the time and energy required for cooking food of small sizes.SUMMARYTechnical Problems

[0011] One objective of the present disclosure is to provide a cooking appliance with an improved structure so that food of various sizes can be cooked efficiently.

[0012] In addition, another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a cooking appliance with an improved structure so that the time and energy required when cooking food of small sizes can be saved.

[0013] In addition, yet another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a cooking appliance that offers enhanced convenience.Technical Solutions

[0014] A cooking appliance, which is one embodiment of the present disclosure for achieving the above objectives, is characterized by including a cavity forming a first cooking chamber therein, an upper module forming a second cooking chamber disposed above the cavity, and a convection module configured to supply hot air to the second cooking chamber.

[0015] In addition, another form of the present disclosure includes a cavity forming a first cooking chamber therein, and a drawer disposed above the cavity and provided to be movable relative to the cavity, and is characterized in that a second cooking chamber is formed inside the drawer, and the position of the second cooking chamber changes in conjunction with the movement of the drawer.

[0016] In addition, yet another form of the present disclosure includes a main body forming a first cooking chamber therein, and a drawer disposed above the first cooking chamber and provided to be movable relative to the first cooking chamber, and is characterized in that a second cooking chamber is formed inside the drawer, and the position of the second cooking chamber changes in conjunction with the movement of the drawer.

[0017] Here, it is preferable that the drawer close the second cooking chamber by being inserted into the main body such that the entire second cooking chamber is housed in the main body.

[0018] In addition, it is preferable that the drawer open the second cooking chamber by protruding from the main body such that at least a portion of the second cooking chamber is exposed from the main body.

[0019] In addition, still another form of the present disclosure includes a main body forming a first cooking chamber therein, a drawer forming therein a second cooking chamber disposed above the cavity, and a convection module configured to supply hot air to the second cooking chamber, and is characterized in that the drawer is installed in the main body so as to be movable to a position where at least a portion of the second cooking chamber is exposed to the outside of the main body.

[0020] Here, it is preferable that the convection module be housed inside the main body.

[0021] A cooking appliance according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include: a cavity forming a first cooking chamber therein; an upper module forming a second cooking chamber disposed above the cavity; and a convection module configured to supply hot air to the second cooking chamber.

[0022] In addition, it is preferable that the upper module include a drawer forming the second cooking chamber therein.

[0023] In addition, it is preferable that the drawer be provided to be movable relative to the cavity.

[0024] In addition, it is preferable that the convection module be disposed in a fixed position.

[0025] In addition, it is preferable that the drawer close the second cooking chamber by moving in a direction closer to the convection module, and open the second cooking chamber by moving in a direction away from the convection module.

[0026] In addition, it is preferable that at least a portion of the convection module be provided to be movable together with the drawer.

[0027] In addition, it is preferable that the drawer be provided to be movable along a horizontal direction.

[0028] In addition, it is preferable that the second cooking chamber be closed in a closed position, and the second cooking chamber be opened upward when the drawer moves to an open position.

[0029] In addition, the upper module may include: a drawer forming therein the second cooking chamber with an open upper portion, and provided to be movable to a closed position and an open position; and an upper cover configured to close the second cooking chamber by covering the drawer from above when the drawer is in the closed position.

[0030] In addition, it is preferable that at least a portion of the second cooking chamber be opened upward on the outer side of the upper cover when the drawer is in the open position.

[0031] In addition, the upper module may include: a drawer forming the second cooking chamber therein; and rails movably supporting the drawer.

[0032] In addition, it is preferable that the drawer open and close the second cooking chamber by moving along the rails.

[0033] In addition, the upper module may further include an upper cover configured to close the second cooking chamber by covering the drawer from above when the drawer is in the closed position.

[0034] In addition, it is preferable that in the open position, the drawer open the second cooking chamber by moving at least a portion of the second cooking chamber to the outside of the upper cover.

[0035] In addition, it is preferable that the second cooking chamber be formed to be opened upward from the drawer, and the drawer be coupled to the rails so as to be reciprocally movable in a front-rear direction.

[0036] In addition, it is preferable that the drawer open the second cooking chamber by moving forward and close the second cooking chamber by moving backward.

[0037] In addition, it is preferable that the closed position be a position where the second cooking chamber is not exposed to the outside, and the open position be a position where at least a portion of the second cooking chamber is exposed to the outside.

[0038] In addition, the present disclosure may further include a control panel disposed above the cavity.

[0039] In addition, it is preferable that with respect to an up-down direction, the second cooking chamber be disposed between the cavity and the control panel.

[0040] In addition, it is preferable that the drawer be provided to be movable along a front-rear direction.

[0041] In addition, it is preferable that the second cooking chamber be closed in a state where the second cooking chamber is covered by the control panel, and be opened in a position where at least a portion of the second cooking chamber protrudes forward from the control panel.

[0042] In addition, the present disclosure may further include a cooktop disposed above the cavity.

[0043] In addition, it is preferable that with respect to an up-down direction, the second cooking chamber be disposed between the cavity and the cooktop.

[0044] In addition, it is preferable that the second cooking chamber be closed in a state where the second cooking chamber is covered by the cooktop, and be opened in a position where at least a portion of the second cooking chamber protrudes forward from the cooktop.

[0045] In addition, the convection module may include a heating unit configured to heat air flowing into the second cooking chamber.

[0046] In addition, it is preferable that at least a portion of the heating unit be disposed on a rear side of the drawer, or be inserted into an interior of the second cooking chamber from the rear side of the drawer.

[0047] In addition, it is preferable that the heating unit be disposed in a fixed position, and the drawer close the second cooking chamber by moving in a direction closer to the heating unit, and open the second cooking chamber by moving in a direction away from the heating unit.

[0048] In addition, at least a portion of the heating unit may be inserted into the interior of the second cooking chamber when the drawer closes the second cooking chamber.

[0049] In addition, it is preferable that the heating unit be pulled out to the outside of the second cooking chamber when the drawer moves in a direction away from the heating unit.

[0050] In addition, the heating unit may be provided to be movable together with the drawer.

[0051] In addition, the convection module may include a fan disposed on a rear side of the second cooking chamber.

[0052] In addition, it is preferable that the fan draw in air from the second cooking chamber and discharge hot air forward toward the second cooking chamber.

[0053] In addition, it is preferable that the convection module include a heating unit configured to heat air drawn in by the fan or discharged from the fan.

[0054] In addition, the heating unit may be installed in the drawer.

[0055] In addition, it is preferable that at least a portion of the heating unit be disposed between the second cooking chamber and the fan, or be inserted into an interior of the second cooking chamber from a rear side of the drawer.

[0056] In addition, the fan may be disposed in a fixed position.

[0057] It is preferable that the drawer close the second cooking chamber by moving in a direction closer to the fan, and open the second cooking chamber by moving in a direction away from the fan.

[0058] In addition, the heating unit and the fan may be provided to be movable together with the drawer.

[0059] In addition, it is preferable that the convection module further include a convection cover disposed outside the second cooking chamber and housing the fan therein, and the heating unit be housed inside the convection cover.

[0060] In addition, the convection module may be disposed in a fixed position.

[0061] In addition, it is preferable that when the drawer closes the second cooking chamber by moving in a direction closer to the convection module, the heating unit be housed inside a space surrounded by a rear surface of the drawer and the convection cover.

[0062] In addition, the convection cover may be provided to be movable together with the drawer.

[0063] In addition, it is preferable that the heating unit be housed inside a space surrounded by a rear surface of the drawer and the convection cover.

[0064] In addition, the present disclosure may further include a first exhaust duct forming a flow path therein for discharging combustion gases inside the first cooking chamber to an outside; and a second exhaust duct forming a flow path therein for discharging combustion gases inside the second cooking chamber to an outside.

[0065] In addition, it is preferable that the first exhaust duct be open to the outside, and the second exhaust duct connect the second cooking chamber and the first exhaust duct.Advantageous Effects

[0066] The cooking appliance of the present disclosure can efficiently cook food of various sizes by having both a cooking unit with a cooking chamber of a small size suitable for food of small sizes and a cooking unit with a cooking chamber of a large size suitable for food of large sizes and allowing an appropriate cooking unit to be selected according to the size of the food to be cooked and the cooking to be performed.

[0067] In addition, the present disclosure can effectively enhance the cooking efficiency of the cooking appliance, such as rapidly raising the temperature of the cooking chamber without preheating and enabling quick and convenient cooking of food of small sizes, by separately having a cooking unit with a cooking chamber of a small size suitable for food of small sizes.

[0068] In addition, the present disclosure can provide not only further enhanced convenience, such as allowing users to bend over less, but also the effect of enabling simple dishes to be completed easily, quickly, and conveniently, by additionally having a separate cooking unit that is disposed at a position higher than the cooking chamber of a typical oven.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0069] The accompanying drawings constitute a part of the specification, illustrate one or more embodiments in the disclosure, and together with the specification, explain the disclosure, wherein:

[0070] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the cooking appliance shown in FIG. 1.

[0072] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an open state of a second cooking chamber of the cooking appliance shown in FIG. 1.

[0073] FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the cooking appliance shown in FIG. 1.

[0074] FIGS. 5 and 6 are perspective views showing a first example of an upper module and a second convection module.

[0075] FIGS. 7 and 8 are perspective views showing a state where the upper cover has been removed from the upper module shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0076] FIGS. 9 and 10 are side cross-sectional views showing the internal structure of the upper module shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.

[0077] FIGS. 11 and 12 are perspective views showing a state where a drawer has moved to a closed position.

[0078] FIGS. 13 and 14 are perspective views showing a state where the upper cover has been removed from the upper module shown in FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0079] FIGS. 15 and 16 are side cross-sectional views showing the internal structure of the upper module shown in FIGS. 13 and 14.

[0080] FIGS. 17 and 18 are side cross-sectional views showing the internal structure of a second example of the second convection module.

[0081] FIGS. 19 and 20 are side cross-sectional views showing the internal structure of a third example of the second convection module.

[0082] FIGS. 21 and 22 are side cross-sectional views showing the internal structure of a fourth example of the second convection module.

[0083] FIGS. 23 and 24 are side cross-sectional views showing the internal structure of a fifth example of the second convection module.

[0084] FIGS. 25 and 26 are rear perspective views showing a state where the cabinet has been removed from the cooking appliance shown in FIG. 1.

[0085] FIG. 27 is a side cross-sectional view showing the operating state of the second convection module.

[0086] FIG. 28 is a side cross-sectional view showing an open state of the second cooking chamber shown in FIG. 27.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0087] The above-described objectives, features, and advantages will be described in detail below with reference to accompanying drawings, and accordingly, those having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains will be able to readily embody the technical ideas of the present disclosure. In describing the present disclosure, if specific descriptions of known technologies related to the present disclosure are deemed to unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present disclosure, the detailed descriptions will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to indicate identical or similar components.

[0088] Although terms such as “first,”“second,” etc., are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by such terms, as a matter of course. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and surely, a first component may also be a second component, unless otherwise specified.

[0089] The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but may be modified in various ways and implemented in a variety of different forms. The present embodiments are provided solely to ensure the present disclosure is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but includes not only substituting or adding the configuration of one embodiment to that of another embodiment, but also all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the technical ideas and scope of the present disclosure.

[0090] The accompanying drawings are merely intended to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein; the technical ideas disclosed herein are not limited by the accompanying drawings, and it should be understood that they encompass all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure. The components in the drawings may be exaggerated or reduced in size or thickness in light of ease of understanding or the like; however, this should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present disclosure.

[0091] The terms used herein are used only to describe particular implementations or embodiments and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Further, singular expressions include plural expressions, unless the context explicitly dictates otherwise. Terms such as “include” and “consist of” herein are intended to specify the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described herein. In other words, it should be understood that terms such as “include” and “consist of” herein do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0092] Terms containing ordinal numbers, such as “first,”“second,” and the like, may be used to describe various components, but these components are not limited by such terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0093] When a component is said to be “connected” or “coupled” to another component, it is to be understood that it may be directly connected or coupled to said another component, but that other components may also be present in between. In contrast, when a component is said to be “directly connected” or “directly coupled” to another component, it is to be understood that there are no other components present in between.

[0094] When a component is said to be “on” or “under” another component, it is to be understood that it may not only be disposed directly on or under said another component, but that other components may also be present in between.

[0095] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by those having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and shall not be construed in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in the present application.

[0096] In the state where a cooking appliance is placed on the floor, the direction in which a door is installed relative to the center of the cooking appliance is defined as a forward direction. Therefore, the direction toward the interior of the cooking appliance with the door open becomes a rearward direction. For convenience, these forward and rearward directions can be referred to as a first direction. Then, the forward direction can be referred to as one direction of the first direction, and the rearward direction can be referred to as the other direction of the first direction.

[0097] In addition, the gravitational direction can be defined as a downward direction, and the direction opposite to the gravitational direction can be defined as an upward direction.

[0098] Furthermore, the horizontal direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction of the cooking appliance, i.e., the width direction of the cooking appliance when viewing the cooking appliance from the front of the door of the cooking appliance, can be referred to as a left-right direction. For convenience, the left-right direction can be referred to as a second direction. Then, the right side can be referred to as one direction of the second direction, and the left side can be referred to as the other direction of the second direction.

[0099] In addition, the width direction of the cooking appliance may also be referred to as a lateral direction. Then, the right side can be referred to as one side of the lateral direction, and the left side can be referred to as the other side of the lateral direction.

[0100] Furthermore, an up-down direction can be referred to as a third direction. Then, the upward direction can be referred to as one direction of the third direction, and the downward direction can be referred to as the other direction of the third direction.

[0101] In addition, the up-down direction described above can be referred to as a vertical direction. Then, the front-rear direction and the left-right direction, i.e., the first direction and the second direction, can be referred to as the horizontal direction.

[0102] Throughout the specification, “A and / or B” denotes A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise specified, and “C to D” denotes C or greater and D or less, unless otherwise specified.Overall Structure of Cooking Appliance

[0103] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the cooking appliance shown in FIG. 1.

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 2, the cooking appliance may have its exterior formed by a main body 10. The main body 10 may be provided in a form that includes a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape, and may be formed from a material having a predetermined strength in order to protect multiple parts installed in the interior space thereof.

[0105] The main body 10 includes a cavity 11 that forms the framework of the main body 10. The cavity 11 may be formed in the shape of a hexahedron with the front open, and a first cooking chamber 12 is provided inside the cavity 11.

[0106] The cavity 11 may be formed in the shape of a hexahedron with the front open, and the first cooking chamber 12 may be formed inside this cavity 11. That is, the first cooking chamber 12 may be formed as a roughly hexahedral space disposed inside the cavity 11 and may be formed as a space open toward the front.

[0107] With this first cooking chamber 12 sealed, food can be cooked while the interior of the first cooking chamber 12 is heated. That is, in the cooking appliance of the present embodiment provided as a closed-type cooking appliance, the first cooking chamber 12 is the space where food is actually cooked.

[0108] The cooking appliance is provided with a heating device that heats the first cooking chamber 12. The heating device may be provided as a burner using gas fuel or a heater using electricity. As such, the structure of the heating device can be modified depending on the type of heat source used.

[0109] The heating device may include a first convection module 20 disposed on the rear side of the first cooking chamber 12. The first convection module 20 ensures that the interior space of the first cooking chamber 12 can be heated uniformly by flowing air while drawing in air from inside the first cooking chamber 12, heating it, and then discharging it back into the first cooking chamber 12.

[0110] In addition, the heating device may include a broil burner or broil heater 25. The broil burner or broil heater 25 may be disposed in the upper portion of the first cooking chamber 12 and heat the interior space of the first cooking chamber 12 from the upper portion of the first cooking chamber 12.

[0111] The exterior of the main body 10 can be formed by a cabinet 14. For example, the cabinet 14 can form both side surfaces and the rear surface of the main body 10. The cavity 11, the heating device, etc., can be housed within the space enclosed by the cabinet 14. In the present embodiment, the space enclosed by the cabinet 14 can be defined as “the interior of the main body 10.”

[0112] A door 30 that selectively opens and closes the first cooking chamber 12 can be provided pivotally in the cooking appliance. As one example, the door 30 may be provided in the form of opening and closing the first cooking chamber 12 in a pull-down manner in which its upper end pivots up and down around its lower end.

[0113] This door 30 can be provided with a handle 35. The user can open and close the door 30 by holding the handle 35 and pushing or pulling the door 30.

[0114] A cooktop unit 40, which is provided to heat food or a container holding food to thereby cook the food, can be disposed in the upper portion of the main body 10. The cooktop unit 40 may be provided with a top plate that closes the upper end of the main body 10 while forming the exterior of the upper surface.

[0115] In the central portion of the cooktop unit 40, at least one or more cooktop heating units for heating food to be cooked or a container holding the food can be provided. For example, the cooktop heating unit may be provided as an induction heater that utilizes electricity. As another example, the cooktop heating unit may be provided as a gas burner. As such, the structure of the cooktop heating unit can be modified depending on the type of heat source used.

[0116] A control panel 50 can be provided in the front upper portion of the cooking appliance, i.e., the upper front surface of the cavity 11. The control panel 50 can form part of the front exterior of the cooking appliance. This control panel 50 can be provided with knobs 51 for adjusting the operation of the cooking appliance, a display 52 for showing the operating states of the cooking appliance, etc.

[0117] The interior space of the main body 10, i.e., the space between the cooktop unit 40 and the first cooking chamber 12, may be provided with an electrical component compartment, which provides a space where electrical components are located. The electrical component compartment may be the space formed between the cooktop unit 40 and the first cooking chamber 12, or may be a conceptual space obtained by combining the space formed between the cooktop unit 40 and the first cooking chamber 12 with the space inside the cooktop unit 40. The front surface of the electrical component compartment may be covered by the control panel 50 or by the door 30.

[0118] In addition, the cooking appliance of the present embodiment may further include an upper module 100. The upper module 100 can form a second cooking chamber 102 above the cavity 11 or the first cooking chamber 12.

[0119] In addition, the cooking appliance of the present embodiment may further include a second convection module 200. The second convection module 200 is provided to be able to supply hot air to the second cooking chamber 102.Structure of Heating Device

[0120] As described above, the cooking appliance of the present embodiment may include a heating device for heating the interior of the first cooking chamber 12. As one example, the heating device may include the broil heater 15 and the first convection module 20.

[0121] The broil heater 15 can be installed on one surface of the cavity 11 and disposed inside the first cooking chamber 12. As one example, the broil heater 15 can be installed on the upper surface of the cavity 11 and disposed in the upper portion of the first cooking chamber 12.

[0122] The broil heater 15 can heat the interior of the first cooking chamber 12 from the upper portion of the first cooking chamber 12. That is, the broil heater 15 is provided to apply heat directly to food from the upper portion of the first cooking chamber 12.

[0123] The first convection module 20 can be installed on a surface of the cavity 11 other than the surface on which the broil heater 15 is installed, and can be disposed inside or outside the first cooking chamber 12. As one example, the first convection module 20 can be installed on the rear surface of the cavity 11 and disposed on the rear side of the first cooking chamber 12. This first convection module 20 may include a first fan cover 21, a first convection heater 23, and a first fan 25.

[0124] The first fan cover 21 can be disposed on a side of the first cooking chamber 12 adjacent to the rear surface of the cavity 11 and can be installed on the rear surface of the cavity 11. This first fan cover 21 can form a space, which is separated from the first cooking chamber 12, inside the first convection module 20.

[0125] As one example, the first fan cover 21 can be formed in a hexahedral shape, with its front surface facing the door 30 and its side surfaces facing the side surfaces of the cavity 11. A first intake port 21a can be disposed at the center of the front surface of the first fan cover 21, and air inside the first cooking chamber 12 can flow into the interior space of the first convection module 20 through the first intake port 21a.

[0126] The first convection heater 23 and the first fan 25 can be disposed in the interior space of the first convection module 20 formed by the first fan cover 21. The first convection heater 23 and the first fan 25 disposed in this way can be installed on the rear surface of the cavity 11.

[0127] The first convection heater 23 is provided to be able to heat the air flowing into the interior space of the first convection module 20. This first convection heater 23 may be provided as a heater that uses electricity or as a burner that uses gas fuel.

[0128] The air heated by the first convection heater 23 in the interior space of the first convection module 20 can be discharged into the first cooking chamber 12 by the first fan 25. That is, hot air can be generated in the interior space of the first convection module 20 by the first convection heater 23 and the first fan 25, and this hot air can be discharged into the first cooking chamber 12 through first discharge ports 21b.

[0129] The first discharge ports 21b can be provided in the first fan cover 21, and may be disposed on at least one of the side, upper, or lower surfaces of the first fan cover 21. The present embodiment exemplifies that the first discharge ports 21b are disposed on both side surfaces, the upper surface, and the lower surface of the first fan cover 21, respectively.

[0130] Each of the first discharge ports 21b can be formed in the shape of penetrating the side, upper, or lower surface of the first fan cover 21. The hot air generated inside the first convection module 20 can be discharged into the first cooking chamber 12 through the first discharge ports 21b.

[0131] The first fan 25 is disposed in the interior space of the first convection module 20 surrounded by the first fan cover 21, and is provided to be rotatable around a front-rear directional shaft. The rotation shaft of this first fan 25 can be disposed at a position where it overlaps in the front-rear direction with the first intake port 21a disposed approximately at the center of the first fan cover 21.

[0132] The first fan 25 can draw in air from the first cooking chamber 12 into the interior space of the first convection module 20 through the first intake port 21a, and discharge the air heated in the interior space of the first convection module 20 into the first cooking chamber 12 through the first discharge ports 21b.

[0133] For example, the first fan 25 can generate a flow of hot air that moves backward toward the interior space of the first convection module 20 in the first cooking chamber 12 and then moves in the centrifugal direction in the interior space of the first convection module 20.Structure of Upper Module

[0134] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an open state of a second cooking chamber of the cooking appliance shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the cooking appliance shown in FIG. 1.

[0135] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the upper module 100 can be disposed above the cavity 11 or the first cooking chamber 12. If the control panel 50 is disposed in the upper portion of the cooking appliance, the upper module 100 can be disposed between the control panel 50 and the cavity 11. For example, the upper module 100 can be disposed in the space formed between the cavity 11 and the control panel 50, which are disposed to be spaced apart in the up-down direction.

[0136] The second cooking chamber 102 can be disposed above the cavity 11. This second cooking chamber 102 can be formed as a space separated from the first cooking chamber 12 and can be disposed above the first cooking chamber 12. As one example, the second cooking chamber 102 can be disposed in the space formed between the first cooking chamber 12 and the control panel 50, which are disposed to be spaced apart in the up-down direction.

[0137] If the cooktop unit 40 is disposed above the cavity 11, the upper module 100 can be disposed below the cooktop unit 40. For example, the upper module 100 can be disposed in the space formed between the cavity 11 and the cooktop unit 40, which are disposed to be spaced apart in the up-down direction. As one example, the second cooking chamber 102 can be disposed in the space formed between the first cooking chamber 12 and the cooktop unit 40, which are disposed to be spaced apart in the up-down direction.

[0138] The second cooking chamber 102 can be formed inside the upper module 100. And the upper module 100 may include a drawer 110. The drawer 110 can form the second cooking chamber 102 inside thereof.

[0139] According to the present embodiment, the outer boundary of the first cooking chamber 12 can be defined by the cavity 11, and the outer boundary of the second cooking chamber 102 can be defined by the drawer 110. The second cooking chamber 102 can be provided as a space separated from the first cooking chamber 12 by the cavity 11 and the drawer 110.

[0140] As one example, the drawer 110 can be formed in a hexahedral shape with the upper portion open. The second cooking chamber 102 can be formed inside this drawer 110, and can be opened upward through the open upper portion of the drawer 110.

[0141] According to the present embodiment, the second cooking chamber 102 can be formed in a smaller size than the first cooking chamber 12. Preferably, the volume of the second cooking chamber 102 can be set to ½ or less of the volume of the first cooking chamber 12. More preferably, the volume of the second cooking chamber 102 can be set to ⅓ or ¼ or less of the volume of the first cooking chamber 12.

[0142] In addition, the size of the drawer 110 that has the second cooking chamber 102 formed inside thereof can also be formed in a smaller size than the size of the cavity 11. The size of this drawer 110 can be set to ½ or less of the size of the cavity 11, more preferably ⅓ or 1 / 4 or less of the size of the cavity 11.

[0143] In addition, the length in the up-down direction of the drawer 110 can be set to ½ or less of the length in the up-down direction of the cavity 11, more preferably ⅓ or ¼ or less of the length in the up-down direction of the cavity 11.

[0144] The drawer 110 described above is disposed above the first cooking chamber 12 and the door 30 disposed in front of it, and can form the second cooking chamber 102 inside thereof, which is smaller in size than the first cooking chamber 12. The user can use the upper module 100 provided with this drawer 110 for cooking food of small sizes.

[0145] The drawer 110 can be provided to be movable relative to the cavity 11. This drawer 110 can move to a closed position and an open position.

[0146] In the closed position, the drawer 110 can close the second cooking chamber 102. Further, in the open position, the drawer 110 can open the second cooking chamber 102.

[0147] As one example, the closed position may be a position where the second cooking chamber 102 is not exposed to the outside, and the open position may be a position where at least a portion of the second cooking chamber 102 is exposed to the outside.

[0148] According to this, when the drawer 110 is in the closed position, most of the regions of the drawer 110 are inserted into the interior of the main body 10, and the second cooking chamber 102 is not exposed to the outside of the cooking appliance (see FIGS. 1 and 2).

[0149] For example, the second cooking chamber 102 can be closed with the second cooking chamber 102 covered by the control panel 50, or the second cooking chamber 102 can be closed with the second cooking chamber 102 covered by the cooktop unit 40.

[0150] In addition, when the drawer 110 is in the open position, the open upper portion of the drawer 110 is exposed to the outside of the main body 10, and at least a portion of the second cooking chamber 102 can be exposed to the outside (see FIGS. 3 and 4).

[0151] For example, the second cooking chamber 102 can be opened in a position where at least a portion of the second cooking chamber 102 protrudes forward from the control panel 50, can be opened in a position where the second cooking chamber 102 protrudes forward from the cooktop unit 40, or can be opened in a position where the second cooking chamber 102 protrudes forward from the door 30.

[0152] As one example, the drawer 110 is provided to be movable in the horizontal direction. More specifically, the drawer 110 can be provided to be reciprocally movable in the front-rear direction.

[0153] For example, the drawer 110 can move backward toward the closed position and be inserted into the interior of the main body 10, and can move forward toward the open position and be pulled out from the main body 10. This drawer 110 can open the second cooking chamber 102 by moving forward, and close the second cooking chamber 102 by moving backward.

[0154] When the drawer 110 is in the closed position, the second cooking chamber 102 can maintain a closed state inside the main body 10. When this drawer 110 moves to the open position, the second cooking chamber 102 also moves forward with the drawer 110, and accordingly, at least a portion of the second cooking chamber 102 is exposed to the outside of the main body 10, allowing the second cooking chamber 102 to be opened upward.

[0155] In addition, the drawer 110 may be provided with a handle 117. The user can grasp the handle 117 and push or pull the drawer 110, thereby moving the drawer 110 to the closed or open position.

[0156] FIGS. 5 and 6 are perspective views showing a first example of the upper module and the second convection module, FIGS. 7 and 8 are perspective views showing a state where the upper cover has been removed from the upper module shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, and FIGS. 9 and 10 are side cross-sectional views showing the internal structure of the upper module shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. Further, FIGS. 11 and 12 are perspective views showing a state where the drawer has moved to the closed position, FIGS. 13 and 14 are perspective views showing a state where the upper cover has been removed from the upper module shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, and FIGS. 15 and 16 are side cross-sectional views showing the internal structure of the upper module shown in FIGS. 13 and 14.

[0157] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 5 to 10, the upper module 100 of the present embodiment may further include rails 120. The rails 120 are provided to be able to movably support the drawer 110. The drawer 110 can move along the rails 120 and open and close the second cooking chamber 102.

[0158] As one example, the rails 120 may be provided in a form that can guide the movement in the front-rear direction of the drawer 110. For example, the rails 120 may be formed in a rod shape where the length in the front-rear direction is much longer than the lengths in the up-down direction and the lateral direction.

[0159] As one example, a pair of rails 120 can be disposed to be spaced apart laterally with the drawer 110 in between, and each rail 120 can be coupled to a side surface of the drawer 110, respectively. That is, both side surfaces of the drawer 110 can be respectively coupled to the rails 120 so as to be movable in the front-rear direction.

[0160] Accordingly, the drawer 110 can be coupled to the rails 120 to be reciprocally movable in the front-rear direction. This drawer 110 can open the second cooking chamber 102 by moving forward along the rails 120, and close the second cooking chamber 102 by moving backward along the rails 120.

[0161] The drawer 110 may include a drawer panel 115. The drawer panel 115 can be disposed at the front of the drawer 110 and can form the front surface of the drawer 110.

[0162] As one example, the drawer panel 115 can form a vertical plane. This drawer panel 115 can be exposed to the front of the main body 10, and can form the front surface of the cooking appliance together with the door 30 and the control panel 50.

[0163] In addition, the upper module 100 of the present embodiment may further include an upper cover 130. The upper cover 130 can be disposed above the drawer 110 and is provided to be able to cover the drawer 110 from above.

[0164] As one example, the upper cover 130 can be formed in a shape that includes a horizontal plane corresponding to the shape of the open upper portion of the drawer 110. For example, the upper cover 130 can be provided in the form of a plate with a size sufficient to completely cover the open upper portion of the drawer 110.

[0165] When the drawer 110 is in the closed position, the upper cover 130 can cover the drawer 110 from above, closing the second cooking chamber 102. When this upper cover 130 is in the open position, at least a portion of the second cooking chamber 102 can be opened upward on the outer side of the upper cover 130.

[0166] For example, when the drawer 110, which was in the closed position, moves forward toward the open position, at least a portion of the second cooking chamber 102 that was covered by the upper cover 130 is exposed to the front of the upper cover 130. At least a portion of the second cooking chamber 102 thus exposed can be opened upward.

[0167] In addition, the upper module 100 may further include a front cover 140. The front cover 140 is provided to be able to support the drawer 110 and the upper cover 130.

[0168] The front cover 140 can be coupled to the upper cover 130, forming a cover assembly. The upper cover 130 can form the upper surface of the cover assembly, and the front cover 140 can form the front surface of the cover assembly. As one example, the cover assembly can be provided in a form where the front cover 140 and the upper cover 130 are integrally formed.

[0169] The front cover 140 can be formed in a shape that includes a vertical plane disposed on the front side of the upper cover 130. As one example, the front cover 140 can be formed in a shape that includes a plane parallel to the drawer panel 115. This front cover 140 can be disposed on the rear side of the drawer panel 115, and face the drawer panel 115 in the front-rear direction.

[0170] A through-hole 142 can be formed in the front cover 140. The through-hole 142 can be formed in a hollow shape that passes through the front cover 140 in the front-rear direction. The drawer 110 can be fitted into the front cover 140 through the through-hole 142. That is, the drawer 110 passes through the front cover 140 in the front-rear direction, and can be fitted into the front cover 140 movably in the front-rear direction.

[0171] The front cover 140 can serve to support the drawer 110 to be movable together with the rails 120, and guide the position of the drawer 110 through the through-hole 142 formed in the front cover 140 as well.

[0172] In addition, the front cover 140 can be coupled to and support the rails 120. According to the present embodiment, each rail 120 can be coupled to the front cover 140 and the upper cover 130, respectively. As one example, the front region of the rail 120 can be coupled to the front cover 140, and the rear region of the rail 120 can be coupled to the upper cover 130 via a bracket 135.

[0173] The front cover 140 can be coupled to the upper cover 130 and the rails 120 as described above, and can be coupled to the main body 10 via coupling with the cavity 11 or cabinet 14, and via coupling with reinforcing support members 160 and 165 described later. This front cover 140 can contribute to stably supporting the upper module 100, which includes the drawer 110, the upper cover 130, and the rails 120, on the main body 10.Structure of Second Convection Module

[0174] As described above, the second convection module 200 is provided to be able to supply hot air to the second cooking chamber 102. The second convection module 200 can be housed inside the main body 10. That is, the second convection module 200 can be disposed above the cabinet 12, as with the upper module 100.

[0175] As one example, the second convection module 200 can be disposed on the rear side of the upper module 100, particularly the drawer 110. This second convection module 200 can be disposed between the cabinet 14 and the control panel 50 or between the cabinet 14 and the cooktop unit 40 in the up-down direction, and can be disposed between the rear surface of the cabinet 12 and the drawer 110 in the front-rear direction.

[0176] The second convection module 200 may include a second fan cover 210. The second fan cover 210 can be disposed on the rear side of the drawer 110. This second fan cover 210 can form a space, which is separated from the second cooking chamber 102, inside the second convection module 200. This second fan cover 210 can be disposed on the rear side of the drawer 110, but can be disposed on the outer side of the drawer 110.

[0177] As one example, the second fan cover 210 can be formed in a hexahedral shape with the front surface and both side surfaces open. This second fan cover 210 can house a second fan 230 described later inside thereof. Through the open front surface of the second fan cover 210, air from inside the second cooking chamber 102 can flow into the interior space of the second convection module 200.

[0178] The second fan 230 can be disposed in the interior space of the second convection module 200 formed by the second fan cover 210. The second fan 230 can generate an airflow that circulates through the second cooking chamber 102 and the interior space of the second convection module 200. That is, by means of the second fan 230, air from the second cooking chamber 102 can flow into the interior space of the second convection module 200, and air from the interior space of the second convection module 200 can be discharged into the second cooking chamber 102.

[0179] As one example, the second convection module 200 may further include a support member 150. The support member 150 is disposed on the rear side of the drawer 110, and is provided to be able to support the second fan cover 210 and the second fan 230.

[0180] As one example, the support member 150 can be provided in the form of a plate that forms a plane parallel to the rear surface of the drawer 110. This support member 150 can be supported by at least one of the rails 120, the brackets 135, and the upper cover 130. The present embodiment exemplifies that the support member 150 is disposed between the pair of rails 120 or between a pair of brackets 135, and both ends of the support member 150 are coupled to the pair of rails 120 or the pair of brackets 135, respectively.

[0181] In addition, the second convection module 200 may further include a heating unit. The heating unit is provided to be able to heat the air inside the second cooking chamber 102 or to heat the air to be supplied to the second cooking chamber102.

[0182] The present embodiment exemplifies a second convection heater 220 being applied as the heating unit. The second convection heater 220 is provided to be able to heat the air flowing into the second cooking chamber 102.

[0183] As one example, at least a portion of the second convection heater 220 can be disposed on the rear side of the drawer 110, or can be inserted into the interior of the second cooking chamber 102 from the rear side of the drawer 110. This second convection heater 220 can be supported by the support member 150. For example, the second convection heater 220 can be installed on the support member 150, and at least a portion of the second convection heater 220 can protrude forward from the support member 150.

[0184] According to the present embodiment, the second convection module 200 can be disposed in a fixed position, and accordingly, the second convection heater 220 can also be disposed in a fixed position. The drawer 110 is disposed on the front side of the second convection heater 220.

[0185] The drawer 110, which was in the open position, can move to the closed position by moving in a direction closer to the second convection module 200, and can close the second cooking chamber 102 in the closed position. The drawer 110, which was in the closed position, can move to the open position by moving in a direction away from the second convection module 200, and can open the second cooking chamber 102 in the open position.

[0186] More specifically, the drawer 110 can close the second cooking chamber 102 by moving in a direction closer to the second convection heater 220, for example, backward. When the drawer 110 closes the second cooking chamber 102, i.e., when the drawer 110 is in the closed position, at least a portion of the second convection heater 220 can be inserted into the interior of the second cooking chamber 102.

[0187] In addition, the drawer 110 can open the second cooking chamber 102 by moving in a direction away from the second convection heater 220, for example, forward. When the drawer 110 moves in a direction away from the second convection heater 220, the second convection heater 220 can be pulled out to the outside of the second cooking chamber 102.

[0188] The drawer 110 may be provided with a second intake port 112 and a second discharge port 114. The second intake port 112 and the second discharge port 114 can be disposed on one surface of the drawer 110 facing the second fan 230, for example, on the rear surface of the drawer 110.

[0189] As one example, the second intake port 112 and the second discharge port 114 can be formed on the rear surface of the drawer 110 to pass therethrough in the front-rear direction. And the second intake port 112 and the second discharge port 114 can be arranged in the up-down direction. The present embodiment exemplifies that the second intake port 112 is disposed below the second discharge port 114, but it is also possible for the second discharge port 114 to be disposed below the second intake port 112.

[0190] The air inside the second cooking chamber 102 can flow into the interior space of the second convection module 200 through the second intake port 112. The air that has flowed into the interior space of the second convection module 200, i.e., the interior space of the second fan cover 210, can be discharged into the second cooking chamber 102 through the second discharge port 114.

[0191] As one example, the second discharge port 114 can be formed in a shape that allows the second convection heater 220 to pass therethrough. When the drawer 110 moves to the closed position, at least a portion of the second convection heater 220 can pass through the second discharge port 114, and can be inserted into the interior of the second cooking chamber 102. Further, when the drawer 110 moves from the closed position to the open position, the second convection heater 220 can be pulled out to the outside of the second cooking chamber 102 through the second discharge port 114.

[0192] With respect to the lateral direction, the second convection heater 220 can be formed with a length greater than that of the second fan cover 210 and the second fan 230, and the second intake port 112 can be formed with a length corresponding to the length of the second fan 230 or the second fan cover 210.

[0193] In addition, with respect to the lateral direction, the second discharge port 114 can be formed with a length greater than or equal to the length of the second convection heater 220. Accordingly, the lateral length of the second discharge port 114 can be set to a length greater than the lateral length of the second intake port 112.

[0194] The second convection module 200 can supply hot air to the second cooking chamber 102 when the drawer 110 is in the closed position, as shown in FIGS. 11 to 16.

[0195] When the drawer 110 is in the closed position, the second fan 230 can draw in air from inside the second cooking chamber 102 into the interior space of the second convection module 200 through the second intake port 112, and can discharge the air that has flowed into the interior space of the second convection module 200 back into the second cooking chamber 102 through the second discharge port 114. At this time, the air passing through the second discharge port 114 can be heated by the second convection heater 220, and the air thus heated can flow into the interior of the second cooking chamber 102.

[0196] That is, the second convection module 200 of the present embodiment can generate a flow of hot air that circulates inside the second cooking chamber 102 and the interior space of the second convection module 200 when the drawer 110 is in the closed position. This second convection module 200 can heat the entire second cooking chamber 102 evenly and quickly.

[0197] As another example, the second intake port 112 may be formed in a shape that allows the second convection heater 220 to pass therethrough. In this case, the second convection heater 220 can be inserted into the interior of the second cooking chamber 102 or can be pulled out to the outside of the second cooking chamber 102 through the second intake port 112.Other Examples of Second Convection Module

[0198] The structure of the second convection module 200 as described above is merely one embodiment of the present disclosure, and various other modified embodiments may exist.

[0199] FIGS. 17 and 18 are side cross-sectional views showing the internal structure of a second example of the second convection module, and FIGS. 19 and 20 are side cross-sectional views showing the internal structure of a third example of the second convection module. Further, FIGS. 21 and 22 are side cross-sectional views showing the internal structure of a fourth example of the second convection module, and FIGS. 23 and 24 are side cross-sectional views showing the internal structure of a fifth example of the second convection module.

[0200] Hereinafter, various other embodiments of the second convection module will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 24.

[0201] First, referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, a portion of a second convection module 200a according to the second example of the present disclosure can be installed in an upper module 100a. As one example thereof, at least a portion of the second convection module 200a can be installed in the drawer 110, and at least a portion of the second convection module 200a can move together with the drawer 110.

[0202] In this second convection module 200a, the heating unit, i.e., the second convection heater 220, is provided to be movable together with the drawer 110. As one example, the second convection heater 220 can be installed on the rear surface of the drawer 110. At least a portion of this second convection heater 220 can be disposed between the second cooking chamber 102 and the second fan 230, or can be inserted into the interior of the second cooking chamber 102 from the rear side of the drawer 110.

[0203] Unlike the second convection heater 220, the second fan 230 may be disposed in a fixed position. That is, the second fan cover 210 and the second fan 230 can maintain a fixed position without moving in the front-rear direction along the drawer 110.

[0204] The drawer 110 can open the second cooking chamber 102 by moving in a direction away from the second fan cover 210 and the second fan 230, and the second convection heater 220 can also move with the drawer 110 in the direction away from the second fan cover 210 and the second fan 230. Further, the drawer 110 can close the second cooking chamber 102 by moving in a direction closer to the second fan cover 210 and the second fan 230, and the second convection heater 220 can also move with the drawer 110.

[0205] Regardless of the position of the drawer 110, the second convection heater 220 can maintain a state of being inserted into the second cooking chamber 102. This second convection heater 220 does not operate when the drawer 110 is in the open position, but can only operate when the drawer 110 is in the closed position, thereby heating the interior of the second cooking chamber 102. Further, only when the drawer 110 is in the closed position, the second fan 230 can also operate together with the second convection heater 220 and supply hot air to the second cooking chamber 102.

[0206] According to the second convection module 200a provided in this form, the position of the second convection heater 220 relative to the drawer 110 does not change. That is, the second convection heater 220 can stably maintain a state of being inserted inside the second cooking chamber 102 regardless of the position of the drawer 110.

[0207] The second convection module 200a eliminates the need to be pulled out to the outside of the second cooking chamber 102 or to be inserted into the interior of the second cooking chamber 102 again when the position of the drawer 110 changes. Accordingly, since tolerance management for the second discharge port 114, which serves as a passage for the second convection heater 220 in the drawer 110, becomes easier, the cost and time required for manufacturing the upper module 100a and the second convection module 200a can be saved.

[0208] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, a second convection module 200b according to the third example of the present disclosure can be installed in an upper module 100b. As one example thereof, the second convection module 200b can be installed in the drawer 110, and this second convection module 200b can move together with the drawer 110.

[0209] In this second convection module 200b, the second fan cover 210 and the second convection heater 220 can be installed on the rear surface of the drawer 110, and the second fan 230 can be installed on the rear surface of the drawer 110 or on the second fan cover 210.

[0210] When the drawer 110 moves forward toward the open position, the entire second convection module 200b can move forward following the drawer 110, and when the drawer 110 moves backward toward the closed position, the entire second convection module 200b can move backward following the drawer 110.

[0211] This second convection heater 220 does not operate when the drawer 110 is in the open position, but can only operate when the drawer 110 is in the closed position, thereby heating the interior of the second cooking chamber 102. Further, only when the drawer 110 is in the closed position, the second fan 230 can also operate together with the second convection heater 220 and supply hot air to the second cooking chamber 102.

[0212] According to the second convection module 200b provided in this form, the position of the entire second convection module 200b relative to the drawer 110 does not change. That is, not only the second convection heater 220 but also the second fan cover 210 can stably maintain a state of being coupled to the drawer 110. Accordingly, since tolerance management for the contact point between the drawer 110 and the second fan cover 210 becomes easier, the cost and time required for manufacturing the upper module 100b and the second convection module 200b can be saved, and the circulation of hot air in the space inside the second fan cover 210 and in the second cooking chamber 102 can be performed efficiently.

[0213] Referring to FIGS. 21 and 22, a second convection module 200c according to the fourth example of the present disclosure can be provided in a form that is disposed in a fixed position, similarly to the second convection module 100 (see FIG. 7) according to the first example of the present disclosure. That is, the second fan cover 210, the second convection heater 220, and the second fan 230 can maintain their fixed positions.

[0214] In this second convection module 200c, the second convection heater 220 can be housed inside the second fan cover 210. For example, the second convection heater 220 can be housed inside the second fan cover 210 so as not to protrude forward from the second fan cover 210.

[0215] When the drawer 110 of the upper module 100c closes the second cooking chamber 102 by moving in a direction closer to the second convection module 200c, i.e., when the drawer 110 is in the closed position by moving backward, a space surrounded by the rear surface of the drawer 110 and the second fan cover 210 can be formed on the rear side of the drawer 110. The second convection heater 220 can be disposed in the space surrounded by the rear surface of the drawer 110 and the second fan cover 210 in this way.

[0216] The main difference between the second convection module 100 according to the first example of the present disclosure and the second convection module 200c according to the fourth example of the present disclosure lies in the position of the second convection heater 220 when the drawer 110 is in the closed position. That is, when the drawer 110 is in the closed position, the second convection heater 220 of the second convection module 200c according to the fourth example of the present disclosure is disposed outside the second cooking chamber 102, compared to the second convection heater 220 of the second convection module 100 according to the first example of the present disclosure being inserted into the second cooking chamber 102.

[0217] For example, the second convection heater 220 of the second convection module 200c according to the fourth example of the present disclosure can be disposed in the space surrounded by the rear surface of the drawer 110 and the second fan cover 210. The second convection heater 220, which is disposed in the space formed outside the second cooking chamber 102 in this way, i.e., in the interior space of the second convection module 200c, heats the air flowing into the interior space of the second convection module 200c, and the second fan 230 can blow the air heated in the interior space of the second convection module 200c into the interior of the second cooking chamber 102.

[0218] According to the second convection module 200c provided in this form, the second convection heater 220 does not protrude into the interior of the second cooking chamber 102. Accordingly, there can be provided the effects that the possibility of contact between a cooking target received inside the second cooking chamber 102 and the second convection heater 220 can be significantly reduced, and the actual usable cooking space of the second cooking chamber 102 can be further expanded.

[0219] Referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, a second convection module 200d according to the fifth example of the present disclosure can be installed in an upper module 100d, similarly to the second convection module 100b (see FIG. 19) according to the third example of the present disclosure. As one example thereof, the second convection module 200d can be installed in the drawer 110, and this second convection module 200d can move together with the drawer 110.

[0220] In addition, the second convection heater 220 of the second convection module 200d according to the fifth example of the present disclosure can be disposed outside the second cooking chamber 102, similarly to the case of the second convection module 100c (see FIG. 21) according to the fourth example of the present disclosure. This second convection heater 220 can be disposed in the space surrounded by the rear surface of the drawer 110 and the second fan cover 210, i.e., the interior space of the second convection module 200d.

[0221] The second convection module 200d provided in this form can provide both the effects provided by the second convection module 200b (see FIG. 19) according to the third example of the present disclosure and the effects provided by the second convection module 200c (see FIG. 21) according to the fourth example of the present disclosure.

[0222] That is, the second convection module 200d according to the fifth example of the present disclosure can provide the effect of saving the cost and time required for manufacturing the upper module 100d and the second convection module 200d, the effect of improving the efficiency of hot air circulation, the effect of expanding the actual usable cooking space of the second cooking chamber 102 while preventing contact between the cooking target received inside the second cooking chamber 102 and the second convection heater 220, etc.Structure of Reinforcing Support Members

[0223] FIGS. 25 and 26 are rear perspective views showing a state where the cabinet has been removed from the cooking appliance shown in FIG. 1. Further, FIG. 27 is a side cross-sectional view showing the operating state of the second convection module, and FIG. 28 is a side cross-sectional view showing an open state of the second cooking chamber shown in FIG. 27

[0224] Referring to FIGS. 25 to 27, the main body 10 may be provided with a front panel 13. The front panel 13 can be disposed on the front side of the cavity 11 facing the door 30, and can form the front surface of the main body 10. This front panel 13 can be coupled to the cavity 11, and can maintain a state of being fixed to the front side of the cavity 11.

[0225] The upper end of the front panel 13 can be disposed at a position protruding further upward than the cavity 11. That is, the upper end of the front panel 13 can be disposed at a position higher than the cavity 11. The upper end of this front panel 13 can be disposed at a position lower than the front cover 140 of the upper module 100.

[0226] According to the present embodiment, the front cover 140 can form a vertical plane parallel to the front panel 13. As one example, the front cover 140 and the front panel 13 can be disposed on the same plane, and form the front surface of the main body 10 together.

[0227] The cooking appliance of the present embodiment may further include reinforcing support members 160 and 165. The reinforcing support members 160 and 165 are provided to be able to support the upper module 100 and the second convection module 200 on the main body 10.

[0228] As one example, the reinforcing support members 160 and 165 can be disposed below the upper module 100 and support the lower portion of the upper module 100. These reinforcing support members 160 and 165 can be coupled to the lower portion of the upper module 100 and the main body 10, thereby coupling the upper module 100 to the main body 10 while supporting it from below.

[0229] The reinforcing support members 160 and 165 may include racks 160. The racks 160 may be provided in a form where the length in the front-rear direction is much longer than the lengths in the up-down direction and the lateral direction. The reinforcing support members 160 and 165 may include a plurality of racks 160 disposed to be spaced apart by a predetermined distance in the lateral direction. The present embodiment exemplifies a form where the reinforcing support members 160 and 165 are provided with a pair of racks 160.

[0230] As one example, the pair of racks 160 can be disposed to be spaced apart by a distance corresponding to the lateral length of the upper module 100. Each rack 160 can be disposed between the upper module 100 and the cavity 11, and can be coupled to the lower portion of the upper module 100.

[0231] For example, each rack 160 can be coupled to at least one of the front cover 140 and the bracket 135. The present embodiment exemplifies that the front region of the rack 160 is coupled to the front cover 140, and the rear region of the rack 160 is coupled to the bracket 135 and the support portion.

[0232] Each rack 160 can be coupled to the upper module 100 at two or more points in the front-rear direction and can support the upper module 100. The plurality of racks 160 coupled respectively to the upper module 100 in this way can be coupled to the upper module 100 at two or more points in the lateral direction and can support the upper module 100.

[0233] The racks 160 supporting the upper module 100 as described above can be coupled to the main body 10. As one example, the front regions of the racks 160 can be disposed between the front cover 140 and the front panel 13 and coupled to the front panel 13, and the rear regions and side surfaces of the racks 160 can be coupled to the cabinet 13 (see FIG. 1). For example, the front regions of the racks 160 can be coupled to the lower end of the front cover 140 and the upper end of the front panel 13, respectively. And the rear regions of the racks 160 can be coupled to the rear surface of the cabinet 14, and the side surfaces of the racks 160 can be coupled to the side surfaces of the cabinet 14.

[0234] The racks 160 as described above can be stably supported on the main body 10 by being coupled to the front panel 13, the cabinet 14, etc., at a plurality of points in the horizontal direction, and can also stably support the upper module 100 and the second convection module 200 by being coupled to the upper module 100 at a plurality of points in the horizontal direction. The reinforcing support members 160 and 165, including these racks 160, can stably support the upper module 100 and the second convection module 200 on the main body 10.

[0235] In addition, the reinforcing support members 160 and 165 may further include a crossbar 165. The crossbar 165 may be provided in a form where the length in the lateral direction is much longer than the lengths in the up-down direction and the front-rear direction. This crossbar 165 can be coupled to and support the plurality of racks 160 disposed in the lateral direction.

[0236] In addition, the crossbar 165 may be directly coupled to the brackets 135 provided on the upper module 100, or indirectly coupled to them via the racks 160. This crossbar 165 can stably fix the rear regions of the racks 160 and the rear region of the upper module 100.

[0237] According to the present embodiment, the front regions of the racks 160 can be fixed by the front panel 13, and the rear regions of the racks 160 can be fixed by the crossbar 165. Accordingly, the structural stability of the reinforcing support members 160 and 165 including the plurality of racks 160 and the crossbar 165 can be effectively enhanced, and the upper module 100 and the second convection module 200 can be stably supported on the main body 10.Structure of Exhaust Duct

[0238] A vent grille 19 may be provided in the upper portion of the cooking appliance. The vent grille 19 can be disposed at the distal end of a passage through which air passing through the interior of the cooking appliance or combustion gases generated inside the cooking appliance are discharged to the outside of the cooking appliance.

[0239] In addition, the cooking appliance of the present embodiment may further include a first exhaust duct 17. The first exhaust duct 17 can form, inside thereof, a flow path for discharging combustion gases inside the first cooking chamber 12 to the outside of the cooking appliance.

[0240] The first exhaust duct 17 can be disposed on the rear side of the cavity 11. Further, the first exhaust duct 17 can be disposed below the vent grille 19. As one example, the first exhaust duct 17 can be disposed in the space surrounded by the rear surface of the cavity 11, the rear surface of the cabinet 14, and the vent grille 19.

[0241] The lower portion of the first exhaust duct 17 can be connected to the first cooking chamber 12 via the rear surface of the cavity 11. The upper end of the first exhaust duct 17 can be disposed below the vent grille 19 and can be opened toward the vent grille 19. Combustion gases generated inside the first cooking chamber 12 can be discharged toward the vent grille 19 side through the first exhaust duct 17, and then discharged to the outside of the cooking appliance through the vent grille 19.

[0242] In addition, the cooking appliance of the present embodiment may further include a second exhaust duct 170. The second exhaust duct 170 can form, inside thereof, a flow path for discharging combustion gases inside the second cooking chamber 102 to the outside of the cooking appliance.

[0243] The second exhaust duct 170 can be disposed on the rear side of the upper module 100. More specifically, the second exhaust duct 170 can be disposed on the rear side of the drawer 110, or can be disposed on the rear side of the support member 150 if the upper module 100 is provided with the support member 150.

[0244] The front portion of the second exhaust duct 170 can be connected to the second cooking chamber 102. As one example, the front portion of the second exhaust duct 170 can be coupled to the support member 150. In this case, the second exhaust duct 170 can be coupled to the support member 150 in a form where the front portion of the second exhaust duct 170 passes through the support member 150 in the front-rear direction.

[0245] When the drawer 110 is in the closed position, the second exhaust duct 170 can be connected to the second cooking chamber 102 by passing through the rear surface of the drawer 110. When the drawer 110 is in the open position, the second exhaust duct 170 can be pulled out to the outside of the second cooking chamber 102 and separated from the drawer 110.

[0246] As another example, the second exhaust duct 170 can be provided to be extendable and retractable in the front-rear direction. According to this, the length of the second exhaust duct 170 can be extended when the drawer 110 moves forward toward the open position, and the second exhaust duct 170 can be retracted when the drawer 110 moves backward toward the closed position. The second exhaust duct 170 provided in this form can maintain a connected state with the second cooking chamber 102 regardless of the position of the drawer 110.

[0247] As one example, the second exhaust duct 170 can connect the second cooking chamber 102 and the first exhaust duct 17. According to this, the rear portion of the second exhaust duct 170 can be connected to the first exhaust duct 17.

[0248] When the drawer 110 is in the closed position, the second cooking chamber 102 can be heated by the second convection module 200, and accordingly, cooking can proceed in the second cooking chamber 102. The combustion gases generated in the second cooking chamber 102 in this process can be discharged to the outside of the second cooking chamber 102 through the second exhaust duct 170.

[0249] More specifically, the combustion gases flowing from the second cooking chamber 102 to the second exhaust duct 170 can be discharged to the vent grille 19 side through the first exhaust duct 17 connected to the second exhaust duct 170, and can be discharged to the outside of the cooking appliance through the vent grille 19.

[0250] According to the present embodiment, the first exhaust duct 17 is disposed in the space formed on the rear side of the cavity 11, i.e., the space surrounded by the rear surface of the cavity 11, the rear surface of the cabinet 14, and the vent grille 19, and the rear surface of the drawer 110 is also disposed in the same space or a space very close thereto.

[0251] And the second exhaust duct 170, which must be connected to the rear surface of this drawer 110, can also be disposed in the same space as the space where the first exhaust duct 17 is disposed or a space very close thereto. That is, the second exhaust duct 170 can be disposed in a position very close to the first exhaust duct 17.

[0252] Taking this point into account, in the present embodiment, the second exhaust duct 170 is made to form a flow path connecting the second cooking chamber 102 and the first exhaust duct 17, instead of forming a separate flow path connecting the second cooking chamber 102 and the vent grille 19. Accordingly, the second exhaust duct 170 can form a significantly shorter flow path compared to a separate flow path connecting the second cooking chamber 102 and the vent grille 19.

[0253] As a result, the amount of materials required to add the second exhaust duct 170 can be saved, and the space occupied by the second exhaust duct 170 inside the cooking appliance can be significantly reduced. That is, the effect of reducing the cost required to add the second exhaust duct 170 and of further simplifying the internal structure of the cooking appliance can be provided.Operation and Effects of Cooking Appliance

[0254] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 27, the cooking appliance of the present embodiment is provided with the first cooking chamber 12 and the second cooking chamber 102, and cooking can be performed independently in the first cooking chamber 12 and the second cooking chamber 102, respectively. For example, cooking may be performed only in the first cooking chamber 12, cooking may be performed only in the second cooking chamber 102, or cooking may be performed in both the first cooking chamber 12 and the second cooking chamber 102.

[0255] When cooking is performed in the first cooking chamber 12, the first cooking chamber 12 can be heated by at least one of the broiler heater 25 and the first convection module 20. When cooking is performed in the second cooking chamber 102, the second cooking chamber 102 can be heated by the second convection module 200.

[0256] In the following, the cavity 11 forming the first cooking chamber 12, the heater 25, and the first convection module 20 will be collectively referred to as a first cooking unit, and the upper module 100 forming the second cooking chamber 102 and the second convection module 200 will be collectively referred to as a second cooking unit.

[0257] As described above, the second cooking chamber 102 can be formed with a smaller volume than the first cooking chamber 12. In the first cooking chamber 12, cooking for food of large sizes, for example, food of sizes that are not suitable to be received in the second cooking chamber 102, can be performed. Cooking for food of small sizes that can be adequately received in the second cooking chamber 102 can be performed by the first cooking unit, or can be performed by the second cooking unit.

[0258] If the user wishes to perform cooking using the second cooking unit, the user first pulls the drawer 110 out of the main body 10 by pulling it forward, as shown in FIG. 28. Accordingly, the drawer 110 moves from the closed position to the open position, and the second cooking chamber 102 is in a position protruding from the main body 10. In the open position, the second cooking chamber 102 can be opened upward.

[0259] The user can place food into the second cooking chamber 102 through the open upper portion of the second cooking chamber 102, and then insert the drawer 110 into the interior of the main body 10 by pushing it backward, as shown in FIG. 27. Accordingly, the drawer 110 moves from the open position to the closed position, and after the drawer 110 has moved to the closed position in this way, the operation of the second convection module 200 can be started.

[0260] The operation of the second convection module 200 can be started by operating knobs 51, switches, etc., provided on the control panel 50. That is, the user can operate the knobs 51, switches, etc., provided on the control panel 50 in order to select the cooking unit to be operated, the cooking mode, whether to start cooking, and the like.

[0261] When both the condition that the drawer 110 is in the closed position and the condition that the user has performed an operation to start the operation of the second convection module 200 are satisfied, the operation of the second convection module 200 can be started, and accordingly, cooking can be performed in the second cooking chamber 102. At this time, a flow of hot air circulating through the second cooking chamber 102 and the interior space of the second convection module 200 is generated inside the second cooking chamber 102, and the hot air circulating in this way can quickly transfer heat to the entire second cooking chamber 102, thereby raising the temperature of the entire second cooking chamber 102 rapidly and evenly.

[0262] That is, the second cooking unit as described above can cook food of small sizes very effectively by heating the entire second cooking chamber 102 quickly and evenly.

[0263] In addition, since the second cooking unit is provided in a form having a cooking chamber of a small size suitable for food of small sizes, it can quickly raise the temperature of the cooking chamber without preheating. This second cooking unit can effectively enhance the cooking efficiency of the cooking appliance by quickly and conveniently cooking food of small sizes.

[0264] In addition, the second cooking unit is disposed at a higher position than the first cooking unit. This second cooking unit can provide the effect of allowing users to complete simple dishes easily, quickly, and conveniently without having to bend over excessively.

[0265] In addition, the cooking appliance of the present embodiment can be disposed in the kitchen, and can be disposed in a position adjacent to the countertop of the kitchen furniture. In this cooking appliance, the height of the cooktop unit 40 may be the same as or similar to the height of the countertop, or may be at a position higher than the countertop. And the height of the second cooking unit, which is disposed between this cooktop unit 40 and the first cooking unit, may be at a position slightly lower than the countertop, or may be the same as or similar to the height of the countertop.

[0266] This second cooking unit is provided with the drawer 110 that can be pulled out forward from the main body 10. When the drawer 110 is in the open position, i.e., when the drawer 110 is in a state of being pulled out forward, the drawer 110 can be used for the purpose of temporarily placing food or can be used as a countertop.

[0267] That is, the second cooking unit, which is disposed at a position higher than the first cooking unit, is disposed at a height accessible to the user while standing, and can thus be used not only for the purpose of heating and cooking food, but also as a countertop necessary in the process of preparing food for cooking.

[0268] The cooking appliance of the present embodiment provided with this second cooking unit not only allows food of small sizes to be cooked quickly and conveniently, but also enables simple cooking to be performed conveniently at a position where the user does not have to bend over excessively, and can provide various functions together, such as a countertop function for food preparation, or the like.

[0269] The present disclosure has been described with reference to the embodiments shown in the drawings, which, however, are merely illustrative, and those having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains will understand that various modifications and other equivalent embodiments are possible therefrom. Therefore, the true technical scope of protection of the present disclosure shall be determined by the following claims.DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS10: Main body

[0271] 11: Cavity

[0272] 12: First cooking chamber

[0273] 13: Front panel

[0274] 14: Cabinet

[0275] 15: Broil heater

[0276] 17: First exhaust duct

[0277] 19: Vent grille

[0278] 20: Convection device

[0279] 21: First fan cover

[0280] 23: First convection heater

[0281] 25: First fan

[0282] 30: Door

[0283] 40: Cooktop unit

[0284] 50: Control panel

[0285] 100: Upper module

[0286] 102: Second cooking chamber

[0287] 110: Drawer

[0288] 112: Second intake port

[0289] 114: Second discharge port

[0290] 115: Drawer panel

[0291] 120: Rail

[0292] 130: Upper cover

[0293] 135: Bracket

[0294] 140: Front cover

[0295] 142: Through-hole

[0296] 150: Support member

[0297] 160: Rack

[0298] 165: Crossbar

[0299] 170: Second exhaust duct

[0300] 200: Second convection module

[0301] 210: Second fan cover

[0302] 220: Second convection heater

[0303] 230: Second fan

Claims

1. A cooking appliance comprising:a cavity forming a first cooking chamber therein;an upper module forming a second cooking chamber disposed above the cavity; anda convection module configured to supply hot air to the second cooking chamber.

2. The cooking appliance of claim 1, wherein the upper module comprises a drawer forming the second cooking chamber therein, andthe drawer is provided to be movable relative to the cavity.

3. The cooking appliance of claim 2, wherein the convection module is disposed in a fixed position, andthe drawer closes the second cooking chamber by moving in a direction closer to the convection module, and opens the second cooking chamber by moving in a direction away from the convection module.

4. The cooking appliance of claim 2, wherein at least a portion of the convection module is provided to be movable together with the drawer.

5. The cooking appliance of claim 2, wherein the drawer is provided to be movable along a horizontal direction,the second cooking chamber is closed in a closed position, andthe second cooking chamber is opened upward when the drawer moves to an open position.

6. The cooking appliance of claim 1, wherein the upper module comprises:a drawer forming therein the second cooking chamber with an open upper portion, and provided to be movable to a closed position and an open position; andan upper cover configured to close the second cooking chamber by covering the drawer from above when the drawer is in the closed position,wherein at least a portion of the second cooking chamber is opened upward on an outer side of the upper cover when the drawer is in the open position.

7. The cooking appliance of claim 1, wherein the upper module comprises:a drawer forming the second cooking chamber therein; andrails movably supporting the drawer,wherein the drawer opens and closes the second cooking chamber by moving along the rails.

8. The cooking appliance of claim 1, wherein the second cooking chamber is formed to be opened upward from the drawer, andthe drawer is coupled to the rails so as to be reciprocally movable in a front-rear direction, and opens the second cooking chamber by moving forward and closes the second cooking chamber by moving backward.

9. The cooking appliance of claim 1, wherein the upper module comprises a drawer forming the second cooking chamber therein,the drawer is provided to be movable to a closed position and an open position,the closed position is a position where the second cooking chamber is not exposed to an outside, andthe open position is a position where at least a portion of the second cooking chamber is exposed to the outside.

10. The cooking appliance of claim 1, further comprising:a control panel disposed above the cavity,wherein, with respect to an up-down direction, the second cooking chamber is disposed between the cavity and the control panel.

11. The cooking appliance of claim 10, wherein the upper module comprises a drawer forming the second cooking chamber therein,the drawer is provided to be movable along a front-rear direction, andthe second cooking chamber is closed in a state where the second cooking chamber is covered by the control panel, and is opened in a position where at least a portion of the second cooking chamber protrudes forward from the control panel.

12. The cooking appliance of claim 1, further comprising:a cooktop disposed above the cavity,wherein, with respect to an up-down direction, the second cooking chamber is disposed between the cavity and the cooktop.

13. The cooking appliance of claim 1, wherein the upper module comprises a drawer forming the second cooking chamber therein,the drawer is provided to be movable along a front-rear direction, andthe second cooking chamber is closed in a state where the second cooking chamber is covered by the cooktop, and is opened in a position where at least a portion of the second cooking chamber protrudes forward from the cooktop.

14. The cooking appliance of claim 1, wherein the upper module comprises a drawer forming the second cooking chamber therein,the convection module comprises a heating unit configured to heat air drawn in by the fan or discharged from the fan,the drawer is provided to be movable, andat least a portion of the heating unit is disposed on a rear side of the drawer, or is inserted into an interior of the second cooking chamber from the rear side of the drawer.

15. The cooking appliance of claim 13, wherein the convection module comprises a heating unit configured to heat air drawn in by the fan or discharged from the fan, andthe heating unit is provided to be movable together with the drawer.

16. The cooking appliance of claim 1, wherein the convection module comprises a fan disposed on a rear side of the second cooking chamber, andthe fan draws in air from the second cooking chamber and discharges hot air forward toward the second cooking chamber.

17. The cooking appliance of claim 16, wherein the upper module comprises a drawer forming the second cooking chamber therein,the convection module comprises a heating unit configured to heat air drawn in by the fan or discharged from the fan,the heating unit is installed in the drawer, andat least a portion of the heating unit is disposed between the second cooking chamber and the fan, or is inserted into an interior of the second cooking chamber from a rear side of the drawer.

18. The cooking appliance of claim 16, wherein the upper module comprises a drawer forming the second cooking chamber therein,the drawer is provided to be movable, andthe heating unit and the fan are provided to be movable together with the drawer.

19. The cooking appliance of claim 16, wherein the upper module comprises a drawer forming the second cooking chamber therein,the convection module further comprises a convection cover disposed outside the second cooking chamber and housing the fan therein, andthe heating unit is housed inside the convection cover.

20. The cooking appliance of claim 1, further comprising:a first exhaust duct forming a flow path therein for discharging combustion gases inside the first cooking chamber to an outside; anda second exhaust duct forming a flow path therein for discharging combustion gases inside the second cooking chamber to an outside,wherein the first exhaust duct is open to the outside, andthe second exhaust duct connects the second cooking chamber and the first exhaust duct.

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