Imaging device and home appliance having same

Abstract

Disclosed are an invention pertaining to an imaging device and a home appliance having same. The disclosed invention has a camera module and a fan accommodated in an accommodation space inside a case, wherein a first surface disposed on one side in a first direction of the case opens the accommodation space in the first direction, and the fan generates an air flow passing through the first surface in the first direction.

Description

Camera equipment and home appliances equipped therewith

[0001] The present invention relates to a photographing device, and more particularly, to a photographing device placed on the upper side of a cooktop and a home appliance having the same.

[0002] Cooking appliances are a type of home appliance used for cooking food. They are installed in kitchens and cook food according to the user's preferences. These cooking appliances can be categorized in various ways based on the heat source, form, or type of fuel used.

[0003] Cooking appliances can be categorized by their cooking method. They can be categorized into open and closed types, based on the space in which the food is placed. Closed types include ovens and microwave ovens, while open types include cooktops and hobs.

[0004] A closed cooking appliance is a cooking appliance that seals the space where food is placed and heats the sealed space to cook the food. A closed cooking appliance has a chamber, or cooking chamber, provided within the main body of the appliance. This chamber serves as the actual cooking space. A heat source is provided within or outside the cooking chamber to heat the cooking chamber.

[0005] Among closed cooking appliances, a microwave oven is a cooking device that uses electricity to generate microwaves, which penetrate the food to be cooked inside the cooking chamber, and heat the food by causing molecular movement inside.

[0006] Microwave ovens are kitchen appliances that heat the inside and outside of food simultaneously by irradiating it with high-frequency waves from a magnetron. They are widely used due to their advantages, such as high thermal efficiency, which significantly reduces cooking time, reducing nutritional loss during the cooking, defrosting, and reheating process, and allowing food to be cooked directly while stored in a container.

[0007] Recently, microwave ovens with built-in hoods, also known as over-the-range (OTR) microwave ovens, have been released. These ovens combine the traditional cooking functions of a microwave oven with the functionality of a hood.

[0008] This type of hood-type microwave oven is installed above the cooktop at a predetermined distance from the cooktop, and can suck in and discharge contaminated air containing pollutants such as odors and smoke generated during cooking on the cooktop.

[0009] Recently, a camera-equipped microwave oven that doubles as a hood has been developed. These microwave ovens can use the camera to capture images of the cooktop, and the images captured by the camera can be used to monitor the cooktop's operating status.

[0010] In addition, the results of monitoring the operating status of the cooktop using the above video can be used to control the operation of the hood of a microwave oven with a hood, or can be used to control the operation of the cooktop.

[0011] The camera is positioned above the cooktop and photographs the cooktop from above, looking down on it. In a microwave oven with a hood, the camera is usually installed on the bottom of the oven.

[0012] Contaminated air generated during cooking on a cooktop can be sucked into the interior of a hood-type microwave oven through an intake port and then discharged to the exterior of the hood-type microwave oven through an exhaust port. The intake port can be located on the bottom of the hood-type microwave oven, and the exhaust port can be located on the top of the hood-type microwave oven.

[0013] The camera, like the intake vent, is typically installed on the underside of a microwave oven with a hood, placing it adjacent to the intake vent. This means the camera is positioned in the airflow path of contaminated air flowing from the cooktop toward the intake vent, exposing it to heat and potentially water and oil vapor.

[0014] In environments where the camera is exposed to heat, water vapor, and oil vapor, there is a high possibility that the camera may malfunction or break down due to the effects of heat, and the camera may become contaminated with water vapor or oil vapor, which may deteriorate the quality of images acquired by the camera or increase the possibility of the camera malfunctioning or breaking down.

[0015] Also, if the camera is contaminated with water vapor or oil vapor, the camera needs to be cleaned, which is a very troublesome task. In addition, if the camera is built into a microwave oven that also functions as a hood, it is very difficult to perform maintenance tasks such as cleaning the camera.

[0016]

[0017] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a photographing device having an improved structure so as to be less affected by heat, water vapor, and oil vapor, and a home appliance having the same.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a photographing device having an improved structure so that maintenance work can be easily performed, and a home appliance having the same.

[0019]

[0020] In order to achieve the above purpose, an embodiment of the present invention provides a photographing device, which is characterized in that it accommodates a camera module and a fan in a space inside a case, a first surface disposed on one side of the case in a first direction opens the space in the first direction, and the fan generates an airflow passing through the first surface in the first direction.

[0021] This can block contaminated air from reaching the camera by forming an air flow that blocks the path of contaminated air to the camera.

[0022] In addition, another form of the present invention is characterized by accommodating a camera module and a fan inside a case, and discharging air sucked in by the fan around the camera module.

[0023] In addition, another form of the present invention is characterized in that a camera module and a fan are accommodated inside a case, the fan sucks in and discharges air through intake and exhaust ports formed in the case, and intake ports are formed on two or more surfaces facing different directions.

[0024] A photographing device according to one aspect of the present invention may include: a case forming an accommodation space therein; a camera module accommodated in the accommodation space; and a fan generating an airflow passing through the accommodation space.

[0025] Preferably, the case is provided with a first surface that is disposed on one side of the first direction of the receiving space and opens the receiving space in the first direction, and the fan can generate an airflow passing through the first surface in the first direction.

[0026] In addition, it is preferable that the first surface be provided with a discharge port that forms a passage penetrating the first surface in the first direction.

[0027] Additionally, for the first direction, it is preferable that the camera module be placed between the fan and the outlet.

[0028] In addition, the present invention may further include an outer portion surrounding the discharge port on the outer side in the radial direction of the discharge port.

[0029] It is preferable that the exterior portion be formed so that the interior of the exterior portion becomes narrower toward the radial center of the exterior portion as it goes toward one side of the first direction.

[0030] In addition, it is preferable that the inner surface of the above-mentioned outer portion is formed to be inclined toward the centripetal direction as it goes toward one side of the first direction.

[0031] Additionally, a penetration portion that penetrates a portion of the first surface in the first direction may be provided on the first surface.

[0032] In addition, it is preferable that the penetration portion includes a light-transmitting hole formed on the first surface to form a passage necessary for light to pass through the first surface and reach the camera module.

[0033] Additionally, the penetration portion may include a discharge port that forms a passage penetrating the first surface in the first direction.

[0034] Additionally, it is preferable that the discharge port is arranged on the outside of the light transmitting hole on a plane perpendicular to the first direction.

[0035] In addition, the present invention may further include an outer portion surrounding the light-emitting hole from the diametrically outer side of the light-emitting hole; and an inner portion surrounding the light-emitting hole from the diametrically outer side of the light-emitting hole and disposed diametrically inner of the outer portion.

[0036] In addition, it is preferable that the discharge port is arranged between the inner tube part and the outer tube part.

[0037] In addition, it is preferable that the inner tube protrudes in the first direction toward the receiving space from the first surface, and at least a portion of the camera module is accommodated inside the inner tube.

[0038] In addition, the present invention may further include a lens cover that covers the light-emitting hole and is coupled to the inner tube.

[0039] Preferably, the lens cover may be provided to allow light to pass through.

[0040] In addition, it is preferable that the case is provided with a second surface arranged on the other side of the first direction of the receiving space, and an intake port is provided on the second surface to form a passage penetrating the second surface in the first direction.

[0041] In addition, it is preferable that the first surface is provided with an outlet that forms a passage penetrating the first surface in the first direction, the intake port and the outlet are arranged along the first direction, and the fan is disposed between the intake port and the outlet.

[0042] In addition, the case may be provided with a second side arranged on the other side of the first direction of the receiving space, and a third side connecting the first side and the second side.

[0043] Additionally, an intake port may be provided on the third surface to form a passage penetrating the third surface in a direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0044] In addition, a home appliance according to another aspect of the present invention may include: a hood module disposed above a cooktop including at least one burner and sucking in steam flowing toward the upper side of the cooktop; a camera that photographs a setting area disposed between the hood module and the cooktop; and a control unit that calculates the amount of steam within the setting area based on a photographed image obtained from the camera and changes the operating state of the hood module according to the calculated amount of steam.

[0045] In addition, the present invention may further include a main body including a cooking chamber provided therein and a heating unit for heating the cooking chamber.

[0046] Additionally, it is preferable that the hood module be placed inside the main body.

[0047]

[0048] The present invention can provide the effect of blocking polluted air from approaching the photographing device and protecting the photographing device from the heat, water vapor, and oil vapor of the polluted air by discharging an exhaust air flow along a path through which polluted air approaches the photographing device.

[0049] In addition, the present invention can provide the effect of being able to be freely installed in a home appliance without being restricted by the installation location or direction by allowing air to flow smoothly through the intake port regardless of which side of the photographing device is installed in the home appliance.

[0050]

[0051] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a photographing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the exploded state of the photographing device illustrated in Figure 1.

[0053] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the photographing device illustrated in Figure 1.

[0054] Figure 4 is a rear view showing the back of the photographing device illustrated in Figure 1.

[0055] Figure 5 is a side view showing the side of the photographing device illustrated in Figure 1.

[0056] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of air flow generated by the photographing device illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0057] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of air flow generated by the photographing device illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0058] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing an example of a photographing device installed in a home appliance.

[0059] Figure 9 is a side view showing the side of the home appliance illustrated in Figure 8.

[0060] Figure 10 is a perspective view showing another example of a camera device installed in a home appliance.

[0061] Fig. 11 is a side view showing the side of the home appliance illustrated in Fig. 10.

[0062] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of a photographing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of air flow generated by the photographing device illustrated in Fig. 12.

[0064]

[0065] The above-described objects, features, and advantages will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the technical idea of ​​the present invention. In describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of known technologies related to the present invention may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar components.

[0066] Although terms like "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specified, a "first" component may also be a "second" component.

[0067] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but can be implemented in various forms and with various modifications. However, these embodiments are provided to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included within the technical spirit and scope of the present invention, as well as substitutions or additions of the components of one embodiment with those of another embodiment.

[0068] The attached drawings are only intended to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, or substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present invention. In the drawings, the components may be expressed in an exaggerated size or thickness for convenience of understanding, etc., but the scope of protection of the present invention should not be construed as being limited due to this.

[0069] The terminology used in this specification is only used to describe specific implementations or examples and is not intended to limit the present invention. In addition, the singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In the specification, terms such as "comprises" and "consists of" are intended to indicate the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification. In other words, it should be understood that terms such as "comprises" and "consists of" in the specification do not exclude in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0070] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0071] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0072] When a component is referred to as being "above" or "below" another component, it should be understood that it is not only positioned directly above that other component, but that there may also be other components present in between.

[0073] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0074] When an appliance, such as a cooking appliance, is placed on the floor, the direction in which the door is installed relative to the center of the appliance is defined as the front. Therefore, the direction in which the door opens and the appliance enters is the rear. For convenience, these forward and rearward directions can be referred to as the first direction. Therefore, the front is one side of the first direction, and the rear is the other side of the first direction.

[0075] Additionally, we can define the direction of gravity as downward, and the opposite direction of gravity as upward.

[0076] The horizontal direction perpendicular to the forward-backward direction of the appliance, i.e., the width direction of the appliance when viewed from the front of the appliance door, can be referred to as the left-right direction. For convenience, the left-right direction can be referred to as the second direction. Then, the right side can be considered one side of the second direction, and the left side can be considered the other side of the second direction.

[0077] Additionally, the width direction of the above home appliance can be referred to as the 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.

[0078] And, the above-mentioned up-down direction can be called the third direction. Then, the up direction can be said to be one side of the third direction, and the down direction can be said to be the other side of the third direction.

[0079] Additionally, the vertical direction described above can be called the vertical direction. Then, the horizontal direction can be included including the front-back direction and the left-right direction, that is, the first direction and the second direction.

[0080] Throughout the specification, when we refer to "A and / or B", this means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated, and when we refer to "C through D", this means C or more and D or less, unless otherwise stated.

[0081] [Overall structure of the shooting device]

[0082] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a photographing device according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an exploded state of the photographing device illustrated in FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the internal structure of the photographing device illustrated in FIG. 1. In addition, FIG. 4 is a rear view illustrating the back of the photographing device illustrated in FIG. 1, and FIG. 5 is a side view illustrating a side of the photographing device illustrated in FIG. 1. In addition, FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of an air flow generated by the photographing device illustrated in FIG. 1, and FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating another example of an air flow generated by the photographing device illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a photographing device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a case (110).

[0084] The case (110) forms the exterior of the photographing device (100). A receiving space (S) may be formed inside the case (110). Inside the case (110), i.e., in the receiving space (S), major components constituting the photographing device (100), such as a camera module (130) or a fan (140) to be described later, may be accommodated.

[0085] A first surface (110a) may be provided in the case (110). The first surface (110a) may be arranged on one side of the first direction of the receiving space (S).

[0086] As an example, the first surface (110a) may be arranged on the front side of the receiving space (S). This first surface (110a) may form the front side of the case (110), and at least a portion of the first surface (110a) may open the receiving space (S) in the first direction.

[0087] For example, the first surface (110a) forms the front exterior of the case (110) and can block the front side of the receiving space (S), and a part of the first surface (110a) can open the receiving space (S) forward.

[0088] A second surface (110b) may be provided in the case (110). The first surface (110a) may be arranged on the other side of the first direction of the receiving space (S). As an example, the second surface (110b) may be arranged on the rear side of the receiving space (S). That is, the first surface (110a) and the second surface (110b) may be arranged in the front-back direction with the receiving space (S) interposed therebetween.

[0089] This first surface (110a) can form the back surface of the case (110), and at least a portion of the second surface (110b) can open the receiving space (S) in the first direction.

[0090] For example, the second surface (110b) forms the rear exterior of the case (110) and can block the rear side of the receiving space (S), and a part of the second surface (110b) can open the receiving space (S) to the rear.

[0091] Additionally, the case (110) may be provided with a third surface (110c). The third surface (110c) may connect the first surface (110a) and the second surface (110b). This third surface (110c) may be arranged on at least one of the upper side, lower side, or both sides of the receiving space (S).

[0092] As an example, the third surface (110c) can be arranged on the upper side, lower side, and both sides of the receiving space (S). That is, the third surface (110c) can form the outer appearance of the upper side, lower side, and both sides of the case (110).

[0093] In this embodiment, the case (110) is exemplified as being formed in a hexahedral shape. Accordingly, the first surface (110a) may form the front exterior of the case (110), the second surface (110b) may form the back exterior of the case (110), and the third surface (110c) may form the top surface, bottom surface, and both sides of the case (110).

[0094] As another example, the shape of the case (110) is not limited to any one form, such as the case (110) may be formed in a spherical or hemispherical shape, or may be formed in a polyhedral shape other than a hexahedron, such as a tetrahedron.

[0095] Meanwhile, the second side (110b) may be formed by a cover (115) that is detachably provided from the case (110). As an example, the case (110) may be formed by a combination of a case body formed by the first side (110a) and the third side (110c), and a cover (115) forming the second side (110b).

[0096] The case body including the first side (110a) and the third side (110c) can form the front, upper, lower, and both sides of the case (110), and the receiving space (S) can be formed inside the case body.

[0097] In the case body, the other side in the first direction of the receiving space (S) can be opened. The other side in the first direction of the opened receiving space (S) can be covered by a cover (115) forming a second surface (110b).

[0098] The cover (115) can be detachably coupled to the other end of the first direction of the case body, and can form the second surface (110b) of the case (110) while coupled to the case body. When the cover (115) is separated from the case body, components such as a camera module (130) or a fan (140) can be inserted into or taken out from the receiving space (S).

[0099] A camera module (130) can be accommodated in the accommodation space (S) inside the case (110). The camera module (130) is provided to be able to capture still images and moving images. This camera module (130) is provided to be able to capture a peripheral area on one side of the first direction of the photographing device (100), i.e., a front peripheral area of ​​the photographing device (100).

[0100] The camera module (130) may include an image processing unit (131). The image processing unit (131) may include one or more image sensors. As the image sensor, a CCD or CMOS may be used.

[0101] As an example, the image sensor may be provided in a form mounted on a circuit board. In this case, the image sensor may be placed on the front surface of the circuit board facing the first surface (110a) of the case (110).

[0102] Additionally, the camera module (130) may include a lens unit (135). The lens unit (135) may include at least one lens. As an example, the lens unit (135) may be provided in a form in which a plurality of lenses arranged along a first direction are accommodated in a barrel.

[0103] The lens unit (135) may be placed between the first surface (110a) of the case (110) and the circuit board. The lens unit (135) collects light reflected from a subject to form an optical image in the imaging area, and the image processing unit (131) may receive light incident through the lens unit (135) and convert it into an image signal.

[0104] In addition, the camera module (130) may further include various processors necessary for composing an image based on an image signal output from the image processing unit (131), and may further include lighting composed of an LED, etc.

[0105] Meanwhile, a penetrating portion (112) may be provided in the case (110). The penetrating portion (112) may be provided on the first surface (110a) and may be formed in a form that penetrates a portion of the first surface (110a) in the first direction.

[0106] The penetration portion (112) may include a light transmitting hole (a). The light transmitting hole (a) may form a passage on the first surface (110a) necessary for light to pass through the first surface (110a) and reach the camera module (130). As an example, the light transmitting hole (a) may be formed to have a circular shape on a plane formed by the first surface (110a).

[0107] This light projection hole (a) is arranged on the front side of the camera module (130) and can be arranged in an area overlapping the camera module (130) in the front-back direction. For example, light reflected from a subject can be incident on the lens unit (135) through the light projection hole (a) and then transmitted to the image sensor through the lens unit (135).

[0108] In addition, the penetration portion (112) may include a discharge port (b). The discharge port (b), like the light-transmitting hole (a), may form a passage that penetrates the first surface (110a) in the first direction. This discharge port (b) may form a passage in the first surface (110a) necessary for the airflow flowing in the first direction in the receiving space (S) to pass through the first surface (110a) in the first direction.

[0109] As an example, the discharge port (b) is arranged on the front side of the camera module (130) and may be arranged in a form that surrounds the light projection hole (a) on the outer side in the diametric direction.

[0110] In this embodiment, the diametric direction is defined as a direction orthogonal to the first direction. In addition, the diametric center can be defined as the center of a circle formed by the light transmitting hole (a) on the plane formed by the first surface (110a). In addition, among the diametric directions, the direction toward the center of the circle can be defined as the centripetal direction, and the direction opposite to the centripetal direction can be defined as the centrifugal direction.

[0111] In addition, the photographing device (100) may further include a fan (140). The fan (140) is configured to generate an air current passing through the receiving space (S). As an example, the fan (140) may be accommodated in the receiving space (S). This fan (140) may suck air from outside the case (110) into the receiving space (S) and then discharge it through the discharge port (b).

[0112] Meanwhile, although not shown, the camera device (100) may be provided with a configuration for power supply.

[0113] As an example, the camera device (100) may include a configuration for independently supplying power to the camera module (130) and the fan (140). For example, a battery connected to the camera module (130) and the fan (140) may be provided inside the case (110), i.e., in the receiving space (S). This battery may be placed between the camera module (130) and the fan (140), or may be placed between the fan (140) and the cover (115).

[0114] As another example, the camera device (100) may include a configuration for receiving power from an external power source. For example, the camera device (100) may be provided with a connector or power cable connected to a camera module (130) and a fan (140), and the connector or power cable may be connected to an external power source to supply power to the camera device (100).

[0115] Additionally, the camera device (100) may be provided with a communication unit. The communication unit may be provided for communication with a home appliance in which the camera device (100) is installed, or may be provided for communication with an external device, such as a mobile device such as a smartphone.

[0116] The communication unit can communicate with external devices through a local area network (LAN), an Internet network, a mobile communication network, and various communication methods such as BT (Bluetooth), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), WI-FI (Wireless Fidelity), WI-FI Direct (Wireless Fidelity Direct), Zigbee, NFC, etc.

[0117] To this end, the communication unit may include various communication modules for performing network communication. For example, the communication interface may include a Bluetooth chip, a Wi-Fi chip, a wireless communication chip, etc.

[0118] As an example, the communication module may be placed in the receiving space (S). For example, the communication module may be placed around the image processing unit (131) or may be provided in a form that shares a circuit board with the image sensor.

[0119] [Structure of supporting members]

[0120] The photographing device (100) may further include a support member (120). The support member (120) is provided to accommodate at least a portion of the camera module (130). The support member (120) may be coupled to the camera module (130) and may support the camera module (130) to the case (110).

[0121] The support member (120) may be coupled to the first surface (110a) of the case (110). As another example, the support member (120) may be formed integrally with the first surface (110a) of the case (110). At least a portion of the support member (120) may be disposed on the rear side of the first surface (110a) and may be disposed in the receiving space (S).

[0122] Additionally, at least a portion of the support member (120) may be arranged to overlap the through-hole (112) in the first direction. Accordingly, at least a portion of the support member (120) may be exposed to the front side of the case (110) through the through-hole (112).

[0123] The support member (120) may include a fixing member (121, 122). The fixing member (121, 122) may be provided for coupling between the support member (120) and the case (110), more specifically, for coupling between the support member (120) and the first surface (110a).

[0124] The fixed portions (121, 122) and the first surface (110a) can be coupled in the first direction. For example, the fixed portions (121, 122) can be fixed to the first surface (110a) in a form that is fitted to the first surface (110a). As another example, the fixed portions (121, 122) and the first surface (110a) can be formed integrally.

[0125] As an example, the fixed part (121, 122) may include a support surface (121) and a coupling protrusion (122).

[0126] The support surface (121) can form a plane parallel to the first surface (110a) and can be arranged to face the first surface (110a) in the first direction. The support surface (121) can be arranged on the rear side of the first surface (110a).

[0127] The coupling protrusion (122) may be provided to protrude in a first direction from the support surface (121). This coupling protrusion (122) may protrude from the support surface (121) in one direction, i.e., forward. As an example, the coupling protrusion (122) may be formed in a form that protrudes forward from the edge of the support surface (121).

[0128] As an example, the engaging protrusion (122) may be coupled to the first surface (110a) by being fitted into the first surface (110a) from the rear side of the first surface (110a). To this end, an engaging hole may be formed in the first surface (110a) for fitting the first surface (110a) and the engaging protrusion (122). As another example, the engaging protrusion (122) may be connected to the first surface (110a) by being formed integrally with the first surface (110a).

[0129] The light-transmitting hole (a) may be formed in a part of the support surface (121). For example, the light-transmitting hole (a) may be provided in a part of an area of ​​the support surface (121) that overlaps with the penetration portion (112) in the front-back direction, and the light-transmitting hole (a) may be formed in a form in which a part of the support surface (121) is penetrated in the first direction.

[0130] In addition, the discharge port (b) may also be formed in a portion of the support surface (121). For example, the discharge port (b) may be provided in a portion of an area of ​​the support surface (121) that overlaps with the penetration portion (112) in the front-back direction, and the discharge port (b) may be formed in a form in which a portion of the support surface (121) is penetrated in the first direction. This discharge port (b) may be arranged on the diametrically outer side of the light-transmitting hole (a).

[0131] The support member (120) may include an outer portion (123). The outer portion (123) is provided so as to surround the light-transmitting hole (a) on the diametrically outer side of the light-transmitting hole (a). This outer portion (123) may be formed to protrude in a first direction from the support surface (121) and may be formed in the shape of a short pipe with both sides in the first direction open. The light-transmitting hole (a) may be formed on the diametrically inner side of the outer portion (123) formed in this manner. In addition, the discharge port (b) may also be formed on the diametrically inner side of the outer portion (123).

[0132] In addition, the support member (120) may further include an inner tube portion (125). The inner tube portion (125) may be arranged diametrically inside the outer tube portion (123). This inner tube portion (125) may be formed to protrude in a first direction from the support surface (121) and may be formed in a tube shape with both sides in the first direction open.

[0133] For example, the outer portion (123) and the inner portion (125) may be arranged to form a concentric circle, and the light transmitting hole (a) may be formed on the diametrically inner side of the inner portion (125).

[0134] Preferably, the inner tube (125) may be formed to protrude further toward the first direction, i.e., toward the rear, than the outer tube (123). At least a portion of the camera module (130) may be accommodated inside the inner tube (125).

[0135] As an example, a lens unit (135) may be accommodated inside the inner tube (125). Additionally, an image sensor may also be accommodated inside the inner tube (125).

[0136] In addition, the support member (120) may further include a fastening boss (127). The fastening boss (127), similar to the outer portion (123), may be formed to protrude rearward from the support surface (121). As an example, the fastening boss (127) may be arranged on the outer side in the diametric direction of the inner portion (125) and may be arranged adjacent to the inner portion (125) and the circuit board. This fastening boss (127) may be provided for coupling between the camera module (130) and the support member (120).

[0137] As an example, when the circuit board and the fastening boss (127) are in contact in the first direction, the connection between the circuit board and the fastening boss (127) can be made. The connection between the circuit board and the fastening boss (127) can be made by a fastening member, such as a screw, which penetrates the circuit board and the fastening boss (127) in the first direction.

[0138] Meanwhile, the discharge port (b) may be formed between the outer portion (123) and the inner portion (125). According to the present embodiment, the outer portion (123) and the inner portion (125) are arranged to form a concentric circle, and the outer portion (123) and the inner portion (125) are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the diametric direction. The discharge port (b) may be formed between the outer portion (123) and the inner portion (125) spaced apart in this manner.

[0139] A guide vane (129) may be provided between the outer portion (123) and the inner portion (125). The guide vane (129) may be formed in a shape extending in a centrifugal direction from the outer circumferential surface of the inner portion (125) and may connect the inner portion (125) and the outer portion (123).

[0140] The outer portion (123) is connected to the support surface (121), and the inner portion (125) can be connected to the outer portion (123) by a guide vane (129). Between the outer portion (123) and the inner portion (125), a plurality of guide vanes (129) can be arranged at a predetermined interval along the circumferential direction of the outer portion (123) or the inner portion (125).

[0141] Accordingly, under the condition that a discharge port (b) is formed between the outer portion (123) and the inner portion (125), the inner portion (125) can be stably fixed to the outer portion (123) and the support surface (121) by the guide vane (129).

[0142] In addition, the guide vane (129), in addition to its role of supporting the inner tube (125), can also serve to guide the discharge direction of air discharged through the discharge port (b). That is, the discharge direction of air discharged through the discharge port (b) can be set according to the angle of the surface formed by the guide vane (129).

[0143] As an example, the guide vane (129) can guide the direction of air discharge through the discharge port (b) so that the discharge direction of air is concentrated on one side in the first direction. Accordingly, the air discharged through the discharge port (b) can flow in a straight line toward one side in the first direction, i.e., forward, without spreading out laterally.

[0144] In addition, the photographing device (100) may further include a lens cover (150). The lens cover (150) is provided to cover the light projection hole (a) and be coupled to the support member (120). More specifically, the lens cover (150) may be coupled to an inner tube (125) defining an outer boundary surface of the light projection hole (a).

[0145] The lens cover (150) may be configured to allow light to pass through. For example, the lens cover (150) may be formed of transparent glass or plastic. The lens cover (150) is positioned to block the light transmitting hole (a) and the camera module (130) from one side in the first direction, thereby protecting the camera module (130), and allowing light that should enter the camera module (130) to pass through.

[0146] As described above, the support member (120) may be provided with structures (inner tube, fastening boss) related to the installation and protection of the camera module (130), structures (outer tube, inner tube, guide vane) for forming a light-emitting hole (a) and an outlet (b).

[0147] Preferably, the support member (120) may be provided in a form in which a structure related to the installation and protection of the camera module (130) and a structure for forming a light-emitting hole (a) and an outlet (b) are formed integrally.

[0148] In addition, the support member (120) may be formed as a separate body from the case (110), and the camera module (130) and the lens cover (150) may be coupled to the support member (120) while the support member (120) is separated from the case (110). That is, the camera module (130) and the lens cover (150) may be first installed to the support member (120) while the support member (120) is separated from the case (110), and in this way, the coupling of the support member (120) and the case (110) may be performed while the installation of the camera module (130) and the lens cover (150) is completed.

[0149] This not only makes it possible to form the light projection hole (a) and the discharge port (b) more easily and at a lower cost, but also makes it possible to install the camera module (130) and the like more easily and effectively.

[0150] [Intake]

[0151] As described above, a fan (140) can be accommodated inside the case (110), i.e., in the receiving space (S). This fan (140) can generate an air current passing through the first surface (110a) in the first direction. For example, the fan (140) can suck air outside the case (110) into the receiving space (S) and then discharge it toward the front side of the photographing device (100) through the discharge port (b).

[0152] Such a fan (140) may be placed between the second surface (110b) and the camera module (130). That is, with respect to the first direction, the fan (140) may be placed between the second surface (110b) and the camera module (130). In addition, with respect to the first direction, it may be expressed that the camera module (130) is placed between the fan (140) and the outlet (b).

[0153] As an example, a small axial fan may be applied as the fan (140). As another example, a centrifugal fan or a radial fan may be applied as the fan (140), and the shape of the fan (140) is not limited to any one shape.

[0154] As described above, a discharge port (b) may be provided on the first surface (110a). In addition, an intake port may be provided on at least one of the second surface (110b) and the third surface (110c), as illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 5 . Hereinafter, the intake port provided on the second surface (110b) will be referred to as the first intake port (c), and the intake port provided on the third surface (110c) will be referred to as the second intake port (d).

[0155] The first intake port (c) may be provided on the second surface (110b) and may form a passage penetrating the second surface (110b) in the first direction. This first intake port (c) may form a passage in the first surface (110a) necessary for the airflow flowing in the first direction in the receiving space (S) to pass through the first surface (110a) in the first direction.

[0156] The first intake port (c) is arranged at the rear side of the fan (140) and the camera module (130), and a plurality of second intake ports (d) may be arranged on the second surface (110b). As an example, the plurality of second intake ports (d) may be arranged over most of the area of ​​the second surface (110b).

[0157] According to the present embodiment, the first intake port (c) and the discharge port (b) can be arranged along the first direction. And the fan (140) can be arranged between the first intake port (c) and the discharge port (b). That is, with respect to the first direction, the fan (140) can be arranged between the first intake port (c) and the discharge port (b).

[0158] The second intake port (d) may be provided on the third surface (110c) and may form a passage that penetrates the third surface (110c) in a direction orthogonal to the first direction. For example, the second intake port (d) may form a passage that penetrates the upper or lower surface of the case (110) in the vertical direction or the side surface of the case (110) in the lateral direction.

[0159] Additionally, the second intake port (d) and the discharge port (b) may also be arranged along the first direction. And the fan (140) may be arranged between the second intake port (d) and the discharge port (b). That is, with respect to the first direction, the fan (140) may be arranged between the second intake port (d) and the discharge port (b).

[0160] Air outside the photographing device (100) is introduced into the receiving space (S) through at least one of the first intake port (c) and the second intake port (d), and is discharged to the outside of the photographing device (100) through the discharge port (b), but may be discharged toward the front of the photographing device (100).

[0161] For example, air outside the photographing device (100) may be sucked into the fan (140) through the first intake port (c), as illustrated in FIG. 6, and discharged to the outside of the photographing device (100) through the discharge port (b). At this time, the air flow generated by the fan (140) may be a linear flow passing through the first intake port (c), the fan (140), and the discharge port (b) in the first direction.

[0162] Additionally, air outside the photographing device (100) may be sucked into the fan (140) through the second intake port (d), as shown in FIG. 7, and discharged to the outside of the photographing device (100) through the discharge port (b).

[0163] [Operation and effects of the filming device]

[0164] Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing an example of a photographing device installed in a home appliance, and Fig. 9 is a side view showing the side of the home appliance shown in Fig. 8. In addition, Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing another example of a photographing device installed in a home appliance, and Fig. 11 is a side view showing the side of the home appliance shown in Fig. 10.

[0165] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 9, a photographing device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention can be installed in a body (11) of a home appliance placed on the upper side of a cooktop, for example, a hood-compatible microwave oven (10).

[0166] The main body (11) of the microwave oven (10) with a hood can be provided with a cooking chamber, which is a space for cooking food, and a heat source for heating the cooking chamber.

[0167] Additionally, a blower for sucking in contaminated air through an intake port (10a) may be provided inside the main body (11) of the hood-compatible microwave oven (10).

[0168] As another example, the photographing device (100) may be installed on the bottom of a hood device that only has a hood function, i.e., a hood device that only has a blower and an intake port without a cooking function. In this case, the main body of the home appliance may be the hood device.

[0169] In this embodiment, the operation and effect of the photographing device (100) will be described by taking as an example the case where the photographing device (100) is installed in the main body (11) of a microwave oven (10) that also functions as a hood.

[0170] As an example, the photographing device (100) may be installed on the bottom surface of a hood-type microwave oven (10). In addition, the photographing device (100) may be positioned at a position adjacent to the front surface of the hood-type microwave oven (10) on the bottom surface of the hood-type microwave oven (10). For example, the photographing device (100) may be positioned at the lower front surface of the hood-type microwave oven (10).

[0171] The camera device (100) positioned in this manner can take pictures of the cooktop from above while looking down on it. In addition, the camera device (100) can also take pictures of the cooktop and its surroundings while looking down on the cooktop and its front side from above the cooktop.

[0172] As an example, the photographing device (100) may be installed in a hood-cum-microwave oven (10) so that the first surface (110a) faces the photographing target area. For example, the photographing device (100) may be installed in a hood-cum-microwave oven (10) so that the first surface (110a) faces the cooktop and the front side thereof.

[0173] Accordingly, the light projection hole (a) and the camera module (130) positioned at the rear side thereof are positioned so as to face the shooting target area, so that shooting of the shooting target area can be performed by the camera module (130).

[0174] In this case, the first direction can be a direction between the up-down direction and the front-back direction, and one side of the first direction can be a direction between the down and front.

[0175] Contaminated air generated during cooking on a cooktop can be sucked into the interior of a hood-type microwave oven (10) through an intake port (10a). Contaminated air sucked into the interior of a hood-type microwave oven (10) in this way can be discharged to the exterior of the hood-type microwave oven (10) through an exhaust port formed on the upper side of the hood-type microwave oven (10).

[0176] The suction port (10a) may be positioned at the bottom of the hood-type microwave oven (10). That is, the suction port (10a) may be formed on the bottom surface of the hood-type microwave oven (10). This suction port (10a) may be positioned adjacent to the photographing device (100) installed on the bottom surface of the hood-type microwave oven (10).

[0177] Accordingly, the photographing device (100) is placed on the flow path of contaminated air flowing from the cooktop toward the intake port (10a). That is, the photographing device (100) is placed at a position where it can come into contact with some of the contaminated air flowing toward the intake port (10a).

[0178] According to this embodiment, the photographing device (100) is provided with a lens cover (150), and the lens cover (150) can block polluted air from flowing into the photographing device (100) toward the camera module (130).

[0179] In addition, the shooting device (100) is provided with a fan (140), and this fan (140) can generate an air current (hereinafter referred to as “discharge air current”) discharged toward the front of the shooting device (100) through the discharge port (b).

[0180] The discharge airflow, which is the flow of air discharged through the discharge port (b) surrounding the projection hole (a), can prevent contaminated air from flowing toward the photographing device (100), particularly toward the area where the projection hole (a) and the lens cover (150) are located.

[0181] That is, the discharged air flow generated by the photographing device (100) surrounds the periphery of the light-emitting hole (a) and the lens cover (150) from the outside and is discharged toward one side in the first direction, thereby blocking the periphery of the light-emitting hole (a) and the lens cover (150) so that polluted air cannot approach the area where the light-emitting hole (a) and the lens cover (150) are located, and directing the flow of polluted air to the outside of the photographing device (100).

[0182] Accordingly, the polluted air becomes difficult to approach the photographing device (100), especially the area around the light projection hole (a) and the lens cover (150), due to the exhaust air discharged from the photographing device (100). As a result, the photographing device (100) can be protected from polluted air so as to be less affected by the heat, water vapor, and oil vapor of the polluted air flowing around the home appliance in which the photographing device (100) is installed.

[0183] That is, the photographing device (100) of the present embodiment can block polluted air from approaching the photographing device (100) and protect the photographing device (100) from heat, water vapor, and oil vapor of the polluted air by discharging the exhaust air along the path through which the polluted air approaches the photographing device (100).

[0184] As an example, the photographing device (100) can be installed in the hood-type microwave oven (10) in a form in which the second surface (110b) is arranged to face the bottom surface of the hood-type microwave oven (10). When a separate structure for coupling the photographing device (100) and the hood-type microwave oven (10) is not added, the photographing device (100) can be installed in the hood-type microwave oven (10) in a state in which the second surface (110b) of the photographing device (100) is in close contact with the bottom surface of the hood-type microwave oven (10).

[0185] In this case, the bottom of the hood-compatible microwave oven (10) covers the first intake port (c) provided on the second surface (110b), making it difficult for outside air to be sucked in through the first intake port (c).

[0186] Taking these points into consideration, in the present embodiment, in addition to the first intake port (c), a second intake port (d) may be provided. Accordingly, even when the first intake port (c) is covered as described above, air can be sucked in through the second intake port (d).

[0187] In this way, the photographing device (100) of the present embodiment having the first intake port (c) and the second intake port (d) can be installed at any location of the home appliance regardless of the installation location, and can be installed in any direction regardless of the installation direction.

[0188] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, a photographing device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be installed in a hood-type microwave oven (20) having a slide-out module (23). In this hood-type microwave oven (20), the slide-out module (23) may be operated by being pulled out forward or pushed back from the main body (21) of the hood-type microwave oven (20). An intake port (20a) may be provided on the bottom surface of the slide-out module (23).

[0189] And the suction port (20a) can be formed on the bottom surface of the slide-out module (23).

[0190] A front frame (25) may be provided on the front side of the slide-out module (23). The front frame (25) forms the front exterior of the slide-out module (23) and is provided so that a user can hold it with his or her hand.

[0191] Since the slide-out module (23) is provided to allow entry and exit into the interior of the main body (21) of the hood-compatible microwave oven (20), it is preferable that the photographing device (100) be installed on the front frame (25) rather than on the bottom surface of the slide-out module (23).

[0192] In this case, the photographing device (100) can be installed in the slide-out module (23) in a form in which the third surface (110c) is attached to the front frame (25). Accordingly, one of the second intake ports (d) can be covered by the front frame (25), but air intake can also be performed through the remaining second intake port (d) as illustrated in FIG. 8, or air intake can be performed through the first intake port (c) as illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0193] [Other examples of filming equipment]

[0194] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of a photographing device according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of air flow generated by the photographing device illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0195] Hereinafter, the structure and operation of a photographing device according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13.

[0196] Referring to FIG. 12, in a photographing device (200) according to another embodiment of the present invention, the discharge port (e) may be formed in an inclined shape.

[0197] To this end, the outer portion (223) provided on the support member (220) may be formed in an inclined shape. For example, the outer portion (223) may be formed such that the interior of the outer portion (223) becomes narrower toward the center of the outer portion (223) as it goes toward one side in the first direction. In other words, the outer portion (223) may be formed such that the interior of the outer portion (223) becomes narrower toward the inner tube portion (125) or the light-transmitting hole (a) as it goes toward one side in the first direction.

[0198] Additionally, the outer portion (223) may be formed so that the inner surface of the outer portion (223) is inclined toward the centripetal direction.

[0199] As the outer portion (223) is formed in the shape described above, the discharge port (e) can form a passage that gets closer to the light-emitting hole (a) as it goes toward one side of the first direction.

[0200] As another example, the outer surface of the inner tube portion (125) may be formed to be inclined toward the centripetal direction, similar to the inner surface of the outer tube portion (223). For example, the outer surface of the inner tube portion (125), which faces the inner surface of the inner tube portion (223), may form an inclined surface parallel to the inner surface of the inner tube portion (223).

[0201] As described above, the discharged air stream passing through the discharge port (e) forming the inclined passage can be discharged in a concentrated manner toward the area surrounding the light-emitting hole (a), as illustrated in Fig. 13. Accordingly, the contaminated air flowing in the direction toward the light-emitting hole (e) splits around the discharged air stream and changes its flow direction away from the light-emitting hole (e).

[0202] This allows access of contaminated air to the area where the light hole (a) and lens cover (150) are located to be more effectively blocked, and allows the photographing device (200) to be more effectively protected from contaminated air flowing around the home appliance in which the photographing device (200) is installed.

[0203] While the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, these are merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent embodiments are possible. Accordingly, the true technical protection scope of the present invention should be defined by the following claims.

[0204] <Explanation of symbols>

[0205] 10,20: Hood-compatible microwave oven

[0206] 10a,20a: Inlet

[0207] 100: Camera

[0208] 110: Case

[0209] 110a: Page 1

[0210] 110b: Page 2

[0211] 110c: Page 3

[0212] 115: Cover

[0213] 120: Support member

[0214] 121: Support surface

[0215] 122: Connective tissue

[0216] 123: Exterior

[0217] 125: Internal Affairs Department

[0218] 127: Contract Boss

[0219] 129: Guide vane

[0220] 130: Camera module

[0221] 131: Image sensor

[0222] 133: Circuit board

[0223] 135: Lens section

[0224] 140: Fan

[0225] 150: Lens cover

[0226] a: light hole

[0227] b,e : outlet

[0228] c: first intake port

[0229] d: second intake

[0230] S: Reception space

Claims

1. A case that forms a receiving space inside; A camera module accommodated in the above accommodation space; and including a fan that generates airflow passing through the above-mentioned receiving space; In the above case, a first surface is provided on one side of the first direction of the receiving space and opens the receiving space in the first direction. The above fan is a photographing device that generates an air current passing through the first surface in the first direction.

2. In paragraph 1, A photographing device in which an outlet is provided on the first surface to form a passage penetrating the first surface in the first direction.

3. In paragraph 2, A photographing device in which the camera module is positioned between the fan and the outlet in the first direction.

4. In paragraph 2, Further comprising an outer portion surrounding the discharge port in the radial direction of the discharge port, A photographing device in which the exterior part is formed so that the interior of the exterior part becomes narrower toward the radial center of the exterior part as it goes toward one side of the first direction. A photographing device in which the inner surface of the above-mentioned outer surface is formed to be inclined toward the centripetal direction as it goes toward one side of the first direction.

5. In paragraph 1, On the first surface, a penetration portion is provided that penetrates a portion of the first surface in the first direction, The above-mentioned penetration part is a photographing device including a light-emitting hole forming a passage on the first surface necessary for light to pass through the first surface and reach the camera module.

6. In paragraph 5, The above-mentioned penetration portion includes a discharge port forming a passage penetrating the first surface in the first direction, A photographing device in which the discharge port is positioned outside the light projection hole on a plane perpendicular to the first direction.

7. In paragraph 1, In the above case, a second side is provided that is arranged on the other side of the first direction of the receiving space, A photographing device in which an intake port is provided on the second surface to form a passage penetrating the second surface in the first direction.

8. In paragraph 7, On the first surface, an outlet is provided to form a passage penetrating the first surface in the first direction, The above intake port and the above discharge port are arranged along the first direction, The above fan is a filming device arranged between the intake port and the exhaust port.

9. Main body; and A home appliance including a photographing device of claim 1 coupled to the above main body.

10. In paragraph 9, The above case is provided with a second side arranged on the other side of the first direction of the receiving space, and a third side connecting the first side and the second side. On the second surface, a first intake port is provided that forms a passage penetrating the second surface in the first direction, On the third surface, a second intake port is provided to form a passage penetrating the third surface in a direction perpendicular to the first direction. A home appliance in which the second side or the third side is coupled to the bottom surface of the main body.

Images