Coil module and home appliance comprising coil module

Abstract

The present specification relates to a coil module and a home appliance comprising the coil module. The coil module according to one embodiment comprises: a plurality of sensing coils formed by means of a plurality of second coil units stacked in the vertical direction; and a plurality of wirings electrically connecting a third terminal to each sensing coil. In one embodiment, the width of each wiring can be set to be proportional to the length of each wiring.

Description

Coil modules and home appliances including coil modules

[0001] The present specification relates to a coil module and a home appliance including the coil module.

[0002]

[0003] Recently, various home appliances have been used to make life more convenient. Examples of home appliances include cooking appliances, refrigerators, washing machines, clothes dryers, clothing care devices, and water purifiers.

[0004] Cooking appliances, a type of home appliance, are designed for cooking food. Installed in the kitchen, they cook food according to the user's preferences. Cooking appliances can be categorized in various ways based on the heat source, type, or fuel used.

[0005] 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.

[0006] Among open cooking appliances, cooktops are provided with at least one burner to heat food contained in a cooking vessel. Cooktops may be provided with either electric or gas burners. Furthermore, cooktops can be implemented as standalone units or as oven ranges, which include an oven beneath the cooktop.

[0007] An example of a cooktop equipped with an electric burner is an induction heater. An induction heater is a cooking appliance that performs cooking functions through induction heating. In an induction heater, when current is applied to a working coil, eddy currents are generated in the magnetic cooking vessel. These eddy currents act as resistance, heating the cooking vessel and cooking food.

[0008] Induction heating devices do not require gas combustion and therefore do not produce exhaust gases. Furthermore, by generating heat immediately within the container itself, induction heating devices minimize heat transfer through radiation or conduction, allowing for rapid heating of food.

[0009] Typically, in an induction heating device, the position where the cooking vessel is to be placed is marked on the top plate above the working coil, and the cooking vessel is heated by the working coil while placed on the marked position.

[0010] An induction heating device may include one or more working coils and a circuit board. The working coil serves to transmit electromagnetic force to the cooking vessel. Typically, the working coil may be formed by spirally winding a wire. The circuit board may serve to control the supply of induced current to the working coil.

[0011] Recently, instead of a working coil in the form of a spirally wound wire, a working coil in the form of a coil pattern formed on a circuit board is also used.

[0012] Of the costs and time required to manufacture an induction heating device, the manufacturing of the working coil accounts for a significant portion. Of this, the cost of the wire and the considerable time and expense involved in winding it are significant.

[0013] By forming the working coil by forming a coil-shaped pattern on a circuit board instead of winding the wire to form the working coil, the cost and time required to manufacture the working coil can be reduced.

[0014] High-frequency power is applied to the working coil, which generates significant heat. In particular, in induction heating devices requiring high power, the high power applied results in significant heat generation in the working coil.

[0015] When forming a working coil by forming a coil-shaped pattern on a circuit board, the limited surface area of ​​the circuit board inevitably forces the coil pattern to be concentrated within a narrow area. Consequently, the circuit board on which the working coil is formed inevitably experiences a significant amount of heat relative to its surface area, which can lead to excessive temperature increases.

[0016] Meanwhile, induction heating devices have recently been developed that automatically recognize the size and position of a cooking vessel, even if it isn't positioned in a specific location, and perform heating appropriately. For heating in induction heating devices to be more effective, the number of working coils in the device must be increased.

[0017] Therefore, it is difficult to apply a working coil in the form of a coil pattern to an induction heating device of the above type due to the problem of temperature rise caused by the concentration of coil patterns.

[0018]

[0019] An object of the present specification is to provide a coil module having an improved structure so that temperature rise can be suppressed, and a home appliance including the coil module.

[0020] It is also an object of the present specification to provide a coil module having an improved structure so as to increase the density of the area occupied by the working coil within the cooktop, and a home appliance including the coil module.

[0021] It is also an object of the present specification to provide a coil module having an improved structure so that the working coils can be arranged more densely while suppressing the temperature rise of the working coils, and a home appliance including the coil module.

[0022] In addition, the purpose of the present specification is to provide a coil module and a home appliance including the coil module having an improved structure so that the density of the area occupied by the working coil within the cooktop can be improved while the loss of the plate used in manufacturing the coil substrate can be reduced.

[0023] In addition, the purpose of the present specification is to provide a coil module having an improved structure so that the connection structure between the working coil and the electric part can be simplified, and a home appliance including the coil module.

[0024] In addition, the purpose of the present specification is to provide a coil module having an improved structure so that a decrease in the cross-sectional area of ​​a pattern per turn of a working coil due to foil loss occurring during the formation of a coil pattern can be suppressed, and a home appliance including the coil module.

[0025] Additionally, the purpose of this specification is to reduce power loss occurring during the operation of home appliances and to increase power efficiency.

[0026] In addition, the purpose of this specification is to improve the phenomenon in which the temperature of a specific area of ​​a working coil becomes excessively higher than the temperature of another area during the operation of a home appliance.

[0027] Additionally, the purpose of this specification is to equalize the resistance of the wiring connecting the power supply and the sensing coil.

[0028] It is also an object of the present specification to reduce the resistance of a sensing coil or wiring.

[0029] The purpose of this specification is not limited to the aforementioned purposes, and other purposes and advantages of this specification not mentioned herein will be more clearly understood by the embodiments of this specification described below. Furthermore, the purposes and advantages of this specification can be realized by the components and combinations thereof described in the claims.

[0030]

[0031] A coil module according to one embodiment may include a plurality of sensing coils formed by a plurality of second coil sections stacked in a vertical direction, and a plurality of wires electrically connecting each sensing coil to a third terminal.

[0032] In one embodiment, the width of each wire can be set to be proportional to the length of each wire.

[0033] In one embodiment, the width of each wire may be set to a value obtained by multiplying the ratio of the length of each wire to the length of a predetermined reference wire by the width of the reference wire.

[0034] In one embodiment, the length or width of each wire may be set differently depending on the distance between the third terminal and each sensing coil.

[0035] In one embodiment, the length or width of each wire may be proportional to the distance between the third terminal and each sensing coil.

[0036] In one embodiment, the coil module may further include a conductive coating layer covering at least a portion of the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires disposed on the outermost surface of the coil module, and an insulating coating layer covering the remaining area excluding the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires on the outermost surface of the coil module.

[0037] In one embodiment, the insulating coating layer may be formed on the outermost surface of the coil module, and the conductive coating layer may be formed after the insulating coating layer covering the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires is removed.

[0038] In one embodiment, each of the second coil sections formed on different layers may be electrically connected to each other by a plurality of electrically separated vias.

[0039] In one embodiment, each of the second coil sections formed on different layers may be connected in parallel by the plurality of vias.

[0040] In one embodiment, the plurality of wires may be arranged in the same layer as the sensing coil.

[0041] A home appliance according to one embodiment may include a coil module.

[0042] In one embodiment, the coil module may include a plurality of working coils formed by a plurality of first coil portions stacked in a vertical direction, a plurality of sensing coils formed by a plurality of second coil portions stacked in a vertical direction, a plurality of first wiring batons electrically connecting a first terminal and each of the working coils, a plurality of second wiring batons electrically connecting a second terminal and each of the working coils, and a plurality of third wiring batons electrically connecting a third terminal and each of the sensing coils.

[0043] In one embodiment, the width of each wire included in each third wiring baton can be set to be proportional to the length of each wire.

[0044] In one embodiment, the width of each wire included in each third wiring baton may be set to a value obtained by multiplying the ratio of the length of each wire to the length of a predetermined reference wire by the width of the reference wire.

[0045] In one embodiment, the length or width of each wire included in each third wiring baton may be set differently depending on the distance between the third terminal and each sensing coil.

[0046] In one embodiment, the length or width of each wire included in each third wiring baton may be proportional to the distance between the third terminal and each sensing coil.

[0047] In one embodiment, the home appliance may further include a conductive coating layer covering at least a portion of the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires disposed on the outermost surface of the coil module, and an insulating coating layer covering the remaining area excluding the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires on the outermost surface of the coil module.

[0048] In one embodiment, the insulating coating layer may be formed on the outermost surface of the coil module, and the conductive coating layer may be formed after the insulating coating layer covering the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires is removed.

[0049] In one embodiment, each of the second coil sections formed on different layers may be electrically connected to each other by a plurality of electrically separated vias.

[0050] In one embodiment, each of the second coil sections formed on different layers may be connected in parallel by the plurality of vias.

[0051] In one embodiment, each wire included in each of the third wiring batons may be arranged in the same layer as the sensing coil.

[0052]

[0053] According to embodiments, a plurality of coil patterns stacked vertically are connected vertically to form a working coil in the form of a pattern coil, thereby increasing the length of the working coil in the vertical direction, thereby effectively increasing the pattern cross-sectional area per turn of the working coil.

[0054] According to embodiments, the temperature rise of the working coil can be effectively suppressed by suppressing an increase in the transverse size of the working coil and increasing the cross-sectional area of ​​the pattern per turn of the working coil.

[0055] According to embodiments, the outer shape of the working coil formed in a polygonal shape similar to the outer shape of the cooktop is formed in a polygonal shape similar to the outer shape of the coil module, thereby effectively improving the density of the area occupied by the working coil within the cooktop.

[0056] According to embodiments, the heating efficiency of the appliance can be improved by increasing the area of ​​the area where the container comes into contact with the working coil.

[0057] According to embodiments, a plurality of coil wires stacked vertically are vertically connected to form a working coil, and a transverse twist structure and a vertical twist structure are formed in the working coil, thereby minimizing an increase in the transverse size of the working coil while increasing the cross-sectional area of ​​the pattern per turn of the working coil.

[0058] According to embodiments, by reducing the size of the working coil while lowering the density of the current flowing in the working coil, the working coils can be arranged more closely together than in a cooktop of the same standard, and the maximum output can be maintained for a longer period of time than in a cooktop of the same standard.

[0059] According to embodiments, using smaller, more closely spaced working coils can provide not only improved heating efficiency but also higher output for a longer period of time.

[0060] According to embodiments, by making the coil assembly consist of a combination of a plurality of coil modules, not only can the loss of the plate used in manufacturing the coil module be reduced, but also the space required for arranging the control panel on the cooktop can be effectively secured.

[0061] According to embodiments, wiring for connecting the working coil and the sensing coil to the terminal portion is formed in a patterned form on the coil module itself, and the connection between the working coil and the sensing coil and the electric portion can be made simply by connecting the terminal portion and the electric portion. Accordingly, the connection structure between the working coil and the sensing coil and the electric portion can be formed very simply.

[0062] According to the embodiments, not only can the connection work between the coil assembly and the electric part be performed easily and quickly, but also the space inside the cooktop where the coil assembly and the electric part are accommodated can be prevented from becoming complicated due to a large number of wires.

[0063] According to embodiments, the proximity effect and skin effect of the coil strands included in the working coil are reduced, so that the current distribution and magnetic flux density distribution of the working coil can be made more uniform.

[0064] According to embodiments, power loss occurring during the operation of a home appliance can be reduced and power efficiency can be increased.

[0065] According to embodiments, a phenomenon in which the temperature of a specific region of a working coil becomes excessively higher than the temperature of another region during the operation of a home appliance can be improved.

[0066] According to embodiments, the resistance of the wiring connecting the power supply and the sensing coil can be equalized.

[0067] According to embodiments, the resistance of the sensing coil or wiring may be reduced.

[0068]

[0069] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a home appliance according to one embodiment.

[0070] Figure 2 is a plan view showing the cooktop illustrated in Figure 1 in isolation.

[0071] Fig. 3 is a drawing showing the lighting status of the indicator lights of the cooktop illustrated in Fig. 2.

[0072] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the exploded state of the cooktop illustrated in Figure 2.

[0073] Figure 5 is a drawing showing a state in which electric components are installed on the bottom surface of the supporter illustrated in Figure 4.

[0074] Fig. 6 is a plan view schematically showing the configuration of the coil assembly illustrated in Fig. 4.

[0075] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the laminated structure of the coil module illustrated in Fig. 6.

[0076] Fig. 8 is a plan view showing a first example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module.

[0077] Figure 9 is a drawing schematically showing an example of a state of cutting a circular plate for forming a first coil substrate portion.

[0078] Fig. 10 is a plan view showing a second example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module.

[0079] Fig. 11 is a plan view showing another example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module illustrated in Fig. 8.

[0080] Fig. 12 is a plan view showing another example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module illustrated in Fig. 10.

[0081] Fig. 13 is a plan view showing a third example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module.

[0082] Fig. 14 is a plan view showing a fourth example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module.

[0083] Fig. 15 is a plan view showing a fifth example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module.

[0084] Fig. 16 is a plan view showing a sixth example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module.

[0085] Fig. 17 is a plan view showing an example of a first coil substrate portion according to one embodiment.

[0086] Fig. 18 is an enlarged view of a portion of the first coil substrate portion illustrated in Fig. 17.

[0087] Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the laminated structure of the first coil portion illustrated in Fig. 18.

[0088] Fig. 20 is a plan view showing an example of the arrangement structure of the sensing coil.

[0089] Fig. 21 is an enlarged view of the “21” portion of Fig. 20, showing an example of the arrangement structure of the sensing coil relative to the working coil.

[0090] Figure 22 is an enlarged view of the first terminal illustrated in Figure 18.

[0091] Figure 23 is an enlarged view of the second terminal illustrated in Figure 18.

[0092] Fig. 24 is a plan view showing a seventh example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module.

[0093] Fig. 25 is a schematic diagram showing a power supply-related configuration of a home appliance according to one embodiment.

[0094] Fig. 26 is a circuit diagram of a home appliance according to one embodiment.

[0095] Fig. 27 is a plan view showing the structure of a working coil according to one embodiment.

[0096] Fig. 28 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a laminated structure of a second outer layer portion and a second coil substrate portion.

[0097] Fig. 29 is a plan view showing an exemplary structure of a second coil section arranged on the outermost side of the coil module illustrated in Fig. 28.

[0098] Fig. 30 is a plan view showing an exemplary structure of a second coil portion disposed below the adhesive illustrated in Fig. 28.

[0099] Fig. 31 is a drawing showing a state in which an insulating coating layer is covered on the outermost surface of a coil module according to one embodiment.

[0100] Fig. 32 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the laminated structure of the coil module illustrated in Fig. 31.

[0101] Fig. 33 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the laminated structure of the coil module illustrated in Fig. 31.

[0102] Fig. 34 is a drawing showing a process of forming an insulating coating layer and a conductive coating layer on the outermost surface of a coil module according to one embodiment.

[0103] FIG. 35 is a drawing showing an electrical connection structure between second coil sections arranged on different layers according to one embodiment.

[0104] Fig. 36 is a drawing showing an electrical connection structure between second coil sections arranged in different layers according to another embodiment.

[0105] Fig. 37 is a circuit diagram of a sensing circuit according to one embodiment.

[0106] FIG. 38 is a diagram showing the waveform of a resonance signal output from an output node of a sensing circuit according to one embodiment.

[0107] Fig. 39 is a diagram showing the waveform of a square wave output from a comparator of a sensing circuit according to one embodiment.

[0108]

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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 in between. 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 in between.

[0116] 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 intervening therein.

[0117] 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.

[0118] When an 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. Furthermore, the horizontal direction perpendicular to the appliance's forward-backward direction—that is, the width of the appliance when viewed from the front of the door—is defined as the left-right direction.

[0119] For convenience, the left-right direction can be considered the first direction. Then, the right can be considered one side of the first direction, and the left can be considered the other side of the first direction.

[0120] 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.

[0121] Additionally, we can define the direction of gravity as downward, and the opposite direction of gravity as upward.

[0122] For convenience, we can refer to the directions facing forward and backward as the second direction. Then, the forward direction can be considered one side of the second direction, and the rear direction can be considered the other side of the second direction.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126]

[0127] [Overall structure of the home appliance]

[0128] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a home appliance according to one embodiment, FIG. 2 is a plan view illustrating the cooktop illustrated in FIG. 1 in isolation, and FIG. 3 is a drawing showing the lighting status of the indicator lights of the cooktop illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a home appliance according to one embodiment may include a cooktop (100). Furthermore, the home appliance according to one embodiment may further include an oven section (10). In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, the home appliance is implemented in the form of an oven range, for example.

[0130] According to one embodiment, a home appliance provided in the form of an oven range can provide both the functions of an oven, which is a sealed home appliance, and the functions of a cooktop, which is an open home appliance. The home appliance can include an oven section (10) and a cooktop (100).

[0131] A cooking chamber can be formed inside the oven section (10). In the oven section, food can be cooked as the inside of the cooking chamber is heated.

[0132] The oven section (10) may be provided with a heating section for heating the cooking chamber. The heating section may be provided with a heating device that uses gas fuel or with a heater that uses electricity.

[0133] The appliance may be provided with a pivotable door (11) for selectively opening and closing the cooking chamber. As an example, the door may be provided in a pull-down manner, with the upper portion pivoting up and down around the lower portion, thereby opening and closing the cooking chamber.

[0134] A control panel (13; hereinafter referred to as the "main control panel") may be provided on the front upper portion of the home appliance. The main control panel (13) may form part of the front exterior of the home appliance. The main control panel (13) may be provided with various switches for controlling the operation of the home appliance and a display for indicating the operating status of the home appliance.

[0135] A cooktop (100) may be placed on the upper side of the oven section (10). The cooktop is provided to heat food or a container containing food placed on the upper side of the cooktop (100).

[0136]

[0137] [Overall structure of the cooktop]

[0138] Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the exploded state of the cooktop shown in Fig. 2, and Fig. 5 is a drawing showing the state in which electrical components are installed on the bottom surface of the supporter shown in Fig. 4.

[0139] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, the cooktop (100) may include a case (110) and a top plate (120). In one embodiment, the exterior of the cooktop (100) may be formed by the case (110) and the top plate (120). The case (110) may be disposed below the top plate (120) and may form the front, back, side, and bottom surfaces of the cooktop. The top plate (120) may be disposed on the top of the cooktop (100) and may form the upper exterior surface of the cooktop (100).

[0140] A receiving space may be formed inside the case (110). The receiving space formed inside the case (110) may be opened upward. For example, the case (110) may be formed in a hexahedral shape with an open upper side. Various internal components constituting the cooktop (100) may be accommodated in the receiving space surrounded by the top plate (120) and the case (110).

[0141] In one embodiment, the case (110) may include a bottom portion (111). The bottom portion (111) forms the bottom surface of the case (110) and may define a lower boundary surface of the receiving space. The bottom portion (111) may be positioned on the lower side of the top plate (120) and may form a plane parallel to the top plate (120).

[0142] Additionally, the case (110) may include a side wall portion (113). The side wall portion (113) may form the front, back, and both sides of the case (110), and may be formed in the form of a vertical wall extending upward from the edge of the bottom portion (111). The side wall portion (113) may define a horizontal boundary surface of the receiving space.

[0143] Additionally, the cooktop (100) may be equipped with a heating element for heating food to be cooked or a container containing food. The heating element may be equipped with at least one burner. For example, the burner may be equipped in a form including an electric working coil or a heating coil.

[0144] In this embodiment, a cooktop (100) is exemplified as being provided in the form of an induction heating device. The cooking zone of the cooktop (100) may include a working coil. The cooking zone including the working coil may be operated by an alternating current provided by an inverter to generate a magnetic field. The magnetic field generated in the cooking zone including the working coil may generate an eddy current in a container. The container may be heated by the eddy current, and as the container is heated, food contained in the container may be heated.

[0145] A cooktop (100) according to one embodiment may be equipped with a control panel (130). The control panel (130) may be placed on the top plate (120). The control panel (130) may be equipped with an operating unit including various switches for controlling the operation of the cooktop (100), and a display for indicating the operating status of the cooktop (100).

[0146] A cooktop (100) may be provided with a plurality of indicator lights (L). The indicator lights (L) may be displayed on the top plate (120) of the cooktop. The indicator lights (L) may display information such as the presence of a container, the location of the container, the heating status of the container, and the temperature of the container.

[0147] A cooktop (100) according to one embodiment may include a coil assembly (1000). The coil assembly (1000) is provided to constitute a heating unit of the cooktop (100) and may be placed in a receiving space within the cooktop (100).

[0148] Additionally, the cooktop (100) may include a supporter (150). The supporter (150) may be placed on the lower side of the top plate (120). The supporter (150) may be placed in a space surrounded by the top plate (120) and the case (110), i.e., a receiving space.

[0149] The supporter (150) may form a frame within the cooktop (100) to support various internal components constituting the cooktop. As an example, the supporter (150) may be formed in a hexahedral shape with an open lower side. For example, the supporter (150) may be formed in a shape that is roughly an upside-down inversion of the case (110), but may be formed to be slightly smaller than the case (110).

[0150] In one embodiment, the receiving space may be formed inside the supporter (150), and may be formed as a space surrounded by the bottom portion (111) of the case (110) and the supporter (150). That is, various internal components constituting the cooktop (100) may be accommodated inside the supporter (150).

[0151] In one embodiment, the supporter (150) may also provide a coil base function. That is, a ferrite core (160) may be installed on the supporter (150), and the coil assembly (1000) may be installed on the upper side of the supporter (150) on which the ferrite core (160) is installed.

[0152] As an example, a ferrite core (160) may be formed by a combination of a plurality of ferrite modules (161) provided as separate parts. That is, the ferrite core (160) may be provided in a structure that can be separated into a plurality of ferrite modules (161).

[0153] In this embodiment, it is exemplified that each ferrite module (161) is provided so as to be respectively coupled to a supporter (150). To this end, a structure for fitting-fitting with the ferrite module (161) may be formed on the supporter (150). Each ferrite module (161) may be coupled to the supporter (150) by being fitted into this structure.

[0154] Each ferrite module (161) includes ferrite capable of forming a magnetic field around the ferrite module (161). As an example, each ferrite module (161) may be provided in a form in which the ferrite is insert-molded.

[0155] According to the ferrite core (160) formed by a combination of a plurality of ferrite modules (161) provided as described above, the number of working hours required to install the ferrite core (160) in the cooktop (100) can be reduced. In addition, the ferrite core (160) has an advantage in that, if a part of the ferrite core (160) is damaged, it can be repaired by replacing the ferrite module (161) of the corresponding part.

[0156] Each indicator light (L) can be implemented by a lighting module (180). The lighting module (180) is provided to emit light toward the light display area of ​​the top plate (120). As an example, the indicator light (L) can be implemented by light that the lighting module (180) shines on the light display area of ​​the top plate (120).

[0157] In this embodiment, the light display area is defined as an area where light emitted from the lighting module (180) can be recognized externally through the top plate (120), i.e., an area where light emitted from the lighting module (180) is illuminated on the top plate (120), and is a predetermined portion of the entire area of ​​the top plate (120).

[0158] As an example, the light display area may be a virtual area designated as a portion where light emitted from a lighting module (180) is to be illuminated on the top plate (120). In this case, the light display area is not a portion that is visibly displayed on the top plate (120) by a method such as performing a separate surface treatment on the surface of the top plate (120), but is merely a virtual area.

[0159] As another example, the light display area may be an area that is conspicuously displayed on the top plate (120), such as by performing a separate surface treatment on the surface of the top plate (120).

[0160] The lighting module (180) may include a light source. As an example, an LED may be used as the light source, but the type of light source applicable to the light source is not limited to LED.

[0161] The lighting module (180) may include multiple light sources, and each lighting module (180) may have multiple light sources arranged at predetermined intervals in the front-back direction. As an example, the lighting module (180) may be provided in a form in which multiple light sources are mounted on a PCB in the form of a PCB. The number of light sources per lighting module (180) and the front-back length of the PCB may be appropriately set according to the size and intensity of the lighting to be implemented through the lighting module (180).

[0162] In addition, a plurality of lighting modules (180) may be arranged on the cooktop, and the plurality of lighting modules (180) may be arranged laterally spaced apart by a predetermined interval. The number of lighting modules (180) and the interval between the lighting modules (180) may be appropriately set in consideration of the size and number of working coils, the interval between the working coils, etc.

[0163] At least a portion of the lighting module (180) may be placed between the supporter (150) and the bottom portion (111). As an example, the lighting module (180) may be placed in the receiving space. More specifically, the lighting module (180) may be placed in a space surrounded by the bottom portion (111) of the case (110) and the supporter (150).

[0164] Various electrical components can be installed in the interior of the cooktop (100), i.e., the receiving space. For example, a main PCB (171), a switching mode power supply (SMPS; 162), an inverter PCB (Inverter PCB; 163), a resonant PCB (Resonant PCB; 164), a noise filter (EMI filter; 165), a fan (176), etc. can be placed in the interior of the cooktop (100).

[0165] Hereinafter, the above-mentioned electrical components are collectively referred to as an electrical unit (170). The electrical unit (170) may include at least one of a power processing unit and a coil control unit. The power processing unit is provided to supply power to the coil assembly (1000), and the power processing unit may include a switching mode power supply (SMPS; 162), a noise filter (EMI filter; 165), and the like. The coil control unit is provided to control the operation of the coil assembly (1000), and the coil control unit may include an inverter PCB (174), and the like.

[0166]

[0167] [Overall structure of the coil assembly]

[0168] Fig. 6 is a drawing schematically showing the configuration of the coil assembly illustrated in Fig. 4, and Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the laminated structure of the coil module illustrated in Fig. 6.

[0169] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 6, the coil assembly (1000) may include a plurality of working coils (WC) arranged in a horizontal direction. As an example, in the coil assembly (1000), a plurality of working coils (WC) may be arranged along a first direction, i.e., a lateral direction, and a plurality of working coils (WC) may also be arranged along a second direction, i.e., a front-back direction.

[0170] The coil assembly (1000) may include at least one coil module (1001, 1003). In the present embodiment, the coil assembly (1000) is exemplified as including a plurality of coil modules (1001, 1003).

[0171] As an example, the coil assembly (1000) may include a plurality of coil modules (1001, 1003) arranged in a horizontal direction. For example, the coil assembly (1000) may include a plurality of coil modules (1001, 1003) arranged in a first direction.

[0172] Each coil module (1001, 1003) may have a plurality of working coils (WC) arranged horizontally, as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7. Each working coil (WC) may be provided in the form of a spiral coil formed in a pattern on a printed circuit board. That is, the working coil (142) may be provided in the form of a pattern formed on the coil module (1001, 1003).

[0173] Each coil module (1001, 1003) may include a coil substrate laminate (1010). The coil substrate laminate (1010) may include a plurality of first coil substrate portions (1100) that are laminated in a vertical direction (or vertical direction).

[0174] Each first coil substrate portion (1100) may include a first coil portion (1120). As an example, the first coil portion (1120) may be formed as a result of a metal foil laminated on the surface of the first coil substrate portion (1100) being patterned into a spiral coil shape.

[0175] In one embodiment, a plurality of first coil substrate portions (1100) are stacked vertically to form one coil module (1001, 1003), and accordingly, a plurality of first coil portions (1120) can be stacked vertically. In addition, a plurality of first coil portions (1120) stacked vertically can be connected to each other vertically to form one working coil (WC), respectively.

[0176] Additionally, each first coil substrate portion (1100) may have a plurality of first coil portions (1120) arranged in one direction (e.g., horizontally), and accordingly, the coil modules (1001, 1003) may include a plurality of working coils (WC) arranged horizontally.

[0177] In addition, the coil assembly (1000) according to one embodiment may include a sensing coil (SC) for detecting the presence of a container, as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7. Each coil module (1001, 1003) may include a plurality of sensing coils (SC) arranged in a horizontal direction. As an example, in the coil assembly (1000), a plurality of sensing coils (SC) may be arranged along a first direction, i.e., a lateral direction, and a plurality of sensing coils (SC) may also be arranged along a second direction, i.e., a front-back direction.

[0178] Each sensing coil (SC) may be provided in the form of a spiral coil formed in a pattern on a printed circuit board. That is, the sensing coil (SC) may be provided in the form of a pattern formed on the coil module (1001, 1003).

[0179] In one embodiment, the coil substrate stack (1010) may include at least one second coil substrate portion (1200). The second coil substrate portion (1200) may be vertically stacked together with the first coil substrate portion (1100). That is, at least one second coil substrate portion (1200) and a plurality of first coil substrate portions (1100) may be vertically stacked to form one coil module (1001, 1003). Accordingly, in each coil module (1001, 1003), at least a portion of the working coil (WC) and the sensing coil (SC) may be vertically arranged.

[0180] Each second coil substrate portion (1200) may include a second coil portion (1220). As an example, the second coil portion (1220) may be formed as a result of a metal foil laminated on the surface of the second coil substrate portion (1200) being patterned into a spiral coil shape.

[0181] The insulating layer disposed between the coil substrate portions (1100, 1200) may be formed by an adhesive (1400). In one embodiment, a plurality of first coil substrate portions (1100) stacked vertically may be joined by an adhesive (1400), and the first coil substrate portion (1100) and the second coil substrate portion (1200) may also be joined by the adhesive (1400). In addition, a plurality of second coil substrate portions (1200) stacked vertically may also be joined by an adhesive (1400).

[0182] Each sensing coil (SC) may be formed by one second coil section (1220), or may be formed as a result of a plurality of second coil sections (1220) stacked vertically and connected vertically.

[0183] Additionally, each second coil substrate portion (1200) may have a plurality of second coil portions (1220) arranged horizontally, and accordingly, the coil modules (1001, 1003) may include a plurality of sensing coils (SC) arranged horizontally.

[0184] Additionally, the coil assembly (1000) according to one embodiment may further include a temperature sensor (TS). The temperature sensor (TS) is provided to measure the temperature of the container and may be disposed on the second coil substrate portion (1200).

[0185] The temperature sensor (TS) may be positioned horizontally inside the sensing coil (SC). For example, the temperature sensor (TS) may be installed on the second coil substrate portion (1200) and positioned within an area surrounded by the sensing coil (SC).

[0186] This specification describes embodiments in which the coil assembly (1000) is used in a cooking appliance. However, in other embodiments, the coil assembly (1000) may be applied to other home appliances requiring induction heating. For example, the coil assembly (1000) may be installed in a washing machine and used to heat a water tank, drum, or laundry tub inside the washing machine, or to heat wash water. As another example, the coil assembly (1000) may be installed in a water purifier and used to heat a hot water pipe or water tank. As another example, the coil assembly (1000) may be installed in a clothes dryer or clothes care device and used to heat air for drying clothes. As another example, the coil assembly (1000) may be installed in an electric kettle or rice cooker and used to heat liquid or food inside the device.

[0187]

[0188] [Coil module layout structure]

[0189] Fig. 8 is a plan view showing a first example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module, and Fig. 9 is a drawing schematically showing an example of a state of cutting a disk for forming a first coil substrate portion. In addition, Fig. 10 is a plan view showing a second example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module, and Fig. 11 is a plan view showing another example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module shown in Fig. 8, and Fig. 12 is a plan view showing another example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module shown in Fig. 10. In addition, Fig. 13 is a plan view showing a third example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module, and Fig. 14 is a plan view showing a fourth example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module shown in Fig. Also, Fig. 15 is a plan view showing a fifth example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module, and Fig. 16 is a plan view showing a sixth example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module.

[0190] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 8, a coil assembly (1000) according to one embodiment may include a plurality of coil modules (1001, 1003). The coil assembly (1000) may have a plurality of coil modules (1001, 1003) arranged along a first direction (e.g., a horizontal direction).

[0191] As described above, the cooktop (100) according to one embodiment may include a control panel (130). The control panel (130) may be placed on the top plate (120), but may be placed in a forward-facing position.

[0192] For the first direction (e.g., horizontal direction), the control panel (130) may be positioned approximately in the center of the coil assembly (1000). For the second direction (e.g., vertical direction), the control panel (130) may be positioned at a position biased toward the front side of the coil assembly (1000).

[0193] The coil assembly (1000) is disposed on the lower side of the top plate (120), but may not be disposed on the lower side of the area occupied by the control panel (130) among the top plate (120). For example, the working coil (WC) is disposed only on the lower side of the area not occupied by the control panel (130) among the top plate (120), and may not be disposed on the lower side of the area occupied by the control panel (130) among the top plate (120).

[0194] The coil assembly (1000) may include several types of coil modules (1001, 1003) of different sizes. In the present embodiment, the coil modules (1001, 1003) are exemplified as including a first coil module (1001) and a second coil module (1003). The first coil module (1001) and the second coil module (1003) may each include a plurality of working coils (WC). In one embodiment, the second coil module (1003) may include a smaller number of working coils (WC) than the first coil module (1001).

[0195] In one embodiment, in the coil assembly (1000), the first coil module (1001) and the second coil module (1003) may be arranged along a first direction (e.g., a horizontal direction). Additionally, with respect to a second direction (e.g., a vertical direction), the length of the second coil module (1003) may be set shorter than the length of the first coil module (1001). That is, the second coil module (1003) may be provided in a form that is shorter in the second direction and includes a smaller number of working coils (WC) than the first coil module (1001).

[0196] In the coil assembly (1000), a pair of first coil modules (1001) and at least one second coil module (1003) may be arranged along a first direction. At this time, the pair of first coil modules (1001) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the first direction. And, at least one second coil module (1003) may be arranged between the pair of first coil modules (1001).

[0197] For example, at least one second coil module (1003) may be positioned at the center of the coil assembly (1000) in the first direction, similar to the control panel (130). At least one second coil module (1003) and the control panel (130) may be positioned on the same straight line in the second direction.

[0198] For the first direction, the control panel (130) may be arranged between a pair of first coil modules (1001). Also, for the second direction, the control panel (130) may be arranged at a position that is offset to one side from the second coil module (1003), for example, at the front side of the second coil module (1003). Accordingly, at least a portion of the control panel (130) may be arranged within an area surrounded by a pair of first coil modules (1001) and second coil modules (1003).

[0199] That is, the control panel (130) can be placed in a position where the visual information provided through the control panel (130) can be easily seen by the user and also in a position where the user can easily operate the control panel (130). The control panel (130) occupies a predetermined area on the upper surface of the cooktop (100).

[0200] In addition, since the working coil (WC) cannot be placed in the area occupied by the control panel (130) on the upper surface of the cooktop (100), the working coil (WC) must be placed in the remaining area excluding the area occupied by the control panel (130). Accordingly, the coil assembly (1000) including the working coils (WC) is placed in the area not occupied by the control panel (130) on the upper surface of the cooktop (100). For example, the horizontal outer shape of the coil assembly (1000) may be formed as a “concave” shape that is inverted upside down.

[0201] The coil assembly (1000) includes a coil module (1001, 1003) having a working coil (WC), and may include several types of coil modules (1001, 1003) having different second direction lengths. In the present embodiment, the coil assembly (1000) is exemplified as including two types of coil modules (1001, 1003), namely, a first coil module (1001) and a second coil module (1003).

[0202] As an example, the horizontal outer shape of the coil modules (1001, 1003) (hereinafter referred to as “outer shape of the coil module”) may be formed into a rectangle. That is, the outer shapes of the first coil module (1001) and the second coil module (1003) may each be formed into a rectangle.

[0203] For example, the shape of the second coil module (1003) may be formed as a rectangle with a different length in the second direction compared to the first coil module (1001). In addition, the second coil module (1003) and the control panel (130) may be arranged on the same straight line in the second direction, and the second coil module (1003) may be arranged on the rear side of the control panel (130).

[0204] Considering that the second coil module (1003) is arranged on the same straight line as the control panel (130) in the second direction, the second direction length of the second coil module (1003) is set shorter than the second direction length of the first coil module (1001).

[0205] As described above, the coil assembly (1000) is formed by a combination of a plurality of coil modules (1001, 1003) arranged in a horizontal direction, and each coil module (1001, 1003) may be formed in a rectangular shape. That is, the coil assembly (1000) may not be formed by a single coil module formed in a shape in which a “concave” shape is inverted upside down, but may be formed by a combination of a plurality of coil modules (1001, 1003) formed in a rectangular shape.

[0206] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, the first coil substrate portion (1100) forming each coil module (1001, 1003) may be formed by a copper clad laminate (CCL). Each copper clad laminate forming each first coil substrate portion (1100) may be provided as a result of cutting a copper clad laminate original plate (B; hereinafter, referred to as “original plate”).

[0207] When the first coil substrate portion (1100) is formed in a "concave" shape or a shape that is an inverted "concave" shape, when cutting the original plate (P) to manufacture the first coil substrate portion (1100), a loss of the original plate (P) is generated in an amount that is cut off to secure a space for arranging the control panel (130). That is, when the coil assembly (1000) is formed by one coil module (1001, 1003), a problem occurs in which the loss of the original plate (P) used in manufacturing the first coil substrate portion (1100) increases.

[0208] In contrast, when the coil assembly (1000) is formed by a combination of multiple coil modules (1001, 1003), it is possible for each coil module (1001, 1003) to be formed in a rectangular shape. That is, the coil assembly (1000) can be formed in a "concave" shape or a shape in which the "concave" shape is inverted upside down by a combination of several types of coil modules (1001, 1003) of different sizes, for example, a first coil module (1001) and a second coil module (1003).

[0209] Accordingly, when cutting the original plate (P) to manufacture the first coil substrate portion (1100), the original plate (P) can be cut into a rectangular shape, so that the loss of the original plate (P) used in manufacturing the first coil substrate portion (1100) can be effectively reduced.

[0210] In one embodiment, the working coil (WC) may be formed into a shape including a polygonal shape. For example, the transverse outer shape of the working coil (WC) (hereinafter referred to as the “outer shape of the working coil”) may be a polygonal shape.

[0211] As an example, the outer shape of the working coil (WC) may be approximately rectangular, and the horizontal outer shape of the cooktop (100) (hereinafter referred to as the “outer shape of the cooktop”) is also approximately close to a rectangle. Accordingly, the horizontal outer shape of the coil modules (1001, 1003) (hereinafter referred to as the “outer shape of the coil module”) is preferably rectangular.

[0212] Since the outer shape of the coil module (1001, 1003) is formed as a rectangle similar to the outer shape of the working coil (WC), the density of the area occupied by the working coil (WC) within the coil module (1001, 1003) can be effectively increased. In addition, since the outer shape of the coil module (1001, 1003) is formed as a rectangle similar to the outer shape of the cooktop (100), the density of the area occupied by the coil module (1001, 1003) within the cooktop (100) can be effectively increased.

[0213] That is, since the outer shape of the coil module (1001, 1003) is formed into a polygonal shape similar to the outer shape of the working coil (WC) and the outer shape of the cooktop (100), the density of the area occupied by the working coil (WC) within the cooktop (100) is effectively increased, and accordingly, the area of ​​the area within the cooktop (100) where heating of the container is possible can be effectively increased.

[0214] Accordingly, the area of ​​the area where the container comes into contact with the working coil (WC) within the cooktop (100) can be increased, thereby effectively improving the heating efficiency of the cooktop (100).

[0215] Meanwhile, the length difference between the first coil module (1001) and the second coil module (1003) along the second direction can be adjusted by the number difference of the working coils (WC) along the second direction. For example, the first coil module (1001) and the second coil module (1003) can be provided with working coils (WC) of the same size and shape, and the number of working coils (WC) along the second direction in the second coil module (1003) can be set to be one or more less than the number of working coils (WC) along the second direction in the first coil module (1001).

[0216] In this way, by adjusting the number of working coils (WC) by making the lengths of the first coil module (1001) and the second coil module (1003) different, even if the sizes of the coil modules (1001, 1003) change, there is no need to design the size and shape of the working coils (WC) differently accordingly. In other words, various types of coil modules (1001, 1003) having different lengths in the second direction can all be provided in a form that includes one type of working coil (WC).

[0217] Accordingly, not only can the cost and time required for designing a working coil (WC) be reduced, but also various types of coil modules (1001, 1003) having different second-direction lengths can be manufactured more easily and quickly at a lower cost.

[0218] In one embodiment, a control panel (130) and a second coil module (1003) may be arranged in the center of the first direction of the upper surface of the cooktop (100), and first coil modules (1001) may be arranged on both sides of the first direction of the upper surface of the cooktop (100).

[0219] As an example, the second direction length of the first coil module (1001) can be set to be substantially similar to the second direction length of the upper surface of the cooktop (100). And the second direction length difference between the first coil module (1001) and the second coil module (1003) can be set to be greater than the second direction length of the working coil (WC).

[0220] Accordingly, while most of the area on the upper surface of the cooktop (100) can be filled with the working coil (WC), the area required for arranging the control panel (130) can be secured on the upper surface of the cooktop (100).

[0221] As an example, in a coil assembly (1000), a pair of first coil modules (1001) and one second coil module (1003) may be arranged along a first direction. At this time, the pair of first coil modules (1001) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the first direction. In addition, one second coil module (1003) may be arranged between the pair of first coil modules (1001).

[0222] For example, one second coil module (1003) may be positioned at the center of the coil assembly (1000) in the first direction, similar to the control panel (130). One second coil module (1003) and the control panel (130) may be positioned on the same straight line in the second direction.

[0223] At this time, the number of working coils (WC) included in each first coil module (1001) and the number of working coils (WC) included in each second coil module (1003) may be 8 and 6, respectively (see FIG. 8), or 6 and 4, respectively (see FIG. 11).

[0224] As another example, in a coil assembly (1000a) as illustrated in FIG. 10, two pairs of first coil modules (1001a) and one pair of second coil modules (1003a) may be arranged along the first direction. In this case, one pair of first coil modules (1001a) may be arranged on one side of one pair of second coil modules (1003a) in the first direction, and another pair of first coil modules (1001a) may be arranged on the other side of one pair of second coil modules (1003a) in the first direction.

[0225] At this time, the number of working coils (WC) included in each first coil module (1001a) and the number of working coils (WC) included in each second coil module (1003a) may be 4 and 3, respectively (see FIG. 10), or 3 and 2, respectively (see FIG. 12).

[0226] As another example, in a coil assembly (1000d) as illustrated in FIG. 13, a pair of first coil modules (1001d) and a pair of second coil modules (1003d) may be spaced apart from each other along the first direction. And a pair of second coil modules (1003d) may be placed between a pair of first coil modules (1001d).

[0227] As another example, in a coil assembly (1000e) as illustrated in FIG. 14, two pairs of first coil modules (1001e) and two pairs of second coil modules (1003e) may be arranged along the first direction. In this case, one pair of first coil modules (1001e) may be arranged on one side of the two pairs of second coil modules (1003e) in the first direction, and another pair of first coil modules (1001e) may be arranged on the other side of the two pairs of second coil modules (1003e) in the first direction.

[0228] Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 15, only one pair of first coil modules (1001f) may be arranged along the first direction, and as illustrated in FIG. 16, only two pairs of first coil modules (1001g) may be arranged along the first direction.

[0229]

[0230] [Structure of the working coil]

[0231] FIG. 17 is a plan view showing an example of a first coil substrate portion according to one embodiment, FIG. 18 is an enlarged view showing a portion of the first coil substrate portion shown in FIG. 17, and FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a laminated structure of the first coil portion shown in FIG. 18. In addition, FIG. 20 is a plan view showing an example of an arrangement structure of sensing coils, and FIG. 21 is an enlarged view showing a portion “21” of FIG. 20, which is a drawing showing an example of an arrangement structure of sensing coils relative to a working coil. In addition, FIG. 22 is an enlarged view showing the first terminal shown in FIG. 18, and FIG. 23 is an enlarged view showing the second terminal shown in FIG. 18.

[0232] The working coil (WC) illustrated in FIG. 8 and FIGS. 17 to 19 may be formed by a conductor laminated in multiple layers, more specifically, an electrical conductor. Hereinafter, the first coil portion (1120), more specifically, the coil pattern (Cp) described below, is exemplified as being formed by a conductor.

[0233] A working coil (WC) can be formed as a result of first coil portions (1120) provided on each of a plurality of first coil substrate portions (1100) stacked vertically and connected to each other vertically. Each first coil substrate portion (1100) can include a core (1110) and a first coil portion (1120).

[0234] The core (1110) forms the skeleton of the first coil substrate portion (1100) and may be formed of an insulating material. As an example, the core (1110) may be formed of a prepreg material. Hereinafter, the core (1110) is exemplified as being formed of a thermosetting prepreg, more specifically, a prepreg that is FR4.

[0235] The first coil portions (1120) may be arranged on each of the upper and lower sides of the core (1110). For example, each of the first coil substrate portions (1100) may be provided in a form in which one layer of the first coil portions (1120) is formed on each of the upper and lower sides of the core (1110).

[0236] As an example, the first coil portion (1120) may be provided in a patterned form on both upper and lower sides of the core (1110). For example, the first coil substrate portion (1100) may be formed by a copper-clad laminate including the core (1110) and copper foil laminated on both upper and lower sides of the core (1110). In this case, the first coil portion (1120) may be formed as a result of the foil laminated on the core (1110) being patterned into a coil shape.

[0237] In one embodiment, the working coil (WC) may be formed into a shape including a polygonal shape. For example, the transverse outer shape of the working coil (WC) (hereinafter referred to as the “outer shape of the working coil”) may be a polygonal shape.

[0238] Additionally, the working coil (WC) may be formed by a plurality of first coil substrate portions (1100) that are stacked vertically as described above. The first coil substrate portion (1100) may include a pattern region (1101) and non-pattern regions (1103, 1105).

[0239] The pattern area (1101) corresponds to an area where the first coil portion (1120) of the first coil substrate portion (1100) is arranged. And the non-pattern areas (1103, 1105) correspond to an area where the first coil portion (1120) of the first coil substrate portion (1100) is not arranged. The pattern area (1101) and the non-pattern areas (1103, 1105) may be arranged on the same plane and may be arranged in a horizontal direction.

[0240] The non-patterned region (1103, 1105) may include a first non-patterned region (1103). In each working coil (WC), the first non-patterned region (1103) may be positioned at the horizontal center. In addition, the first non-patterned region (1103) may be positioned at the horizontal center of the first coil substrate portion (1100).

[0241] For example, the first non-patterned region (1103) may be arranged at the horizontal center of each working coil (WC) and the first coil substrate portion (1100). The patterned region (1101) may be arranged to surround the first non-patterned region (1103) from the horizontal outer side.

[0242] In this embodiment, the expression “center” does not mean the exact center, but means an area surrounded by a spirally wound working coil (WC), including the radial center of the working coil (WC) and its surroundings.

[0243] At least a portion of the first coil portion (1120) may surround the non-patterned region (1103, 1105) from the outer side in the horizontal direction. As an example, at least a portion of the first coil portion (1120) may surround the first non-patterned region (1103) from the outer side in the horizontal direction.

[0244] The first coil portion (1120) may include at least one coil pattern (Cp) arranged on the horizontal outer side of the first non-pattern area (1103). In each first coil portion (1120), each coil pattern (Cp) may be wound multiple times around the first non-pattern area (1103). The first coil portion (1120) may be formed by at least one coil pattern (Cp) provided in this form.

[0245] Each first coil portion (1120) may include a plurality of coil patterns (Cp). At this time, in each first coil portion (1120), a plurality of coil patterns (Cp) may be arranged at a predetermined interval from each other along the diameter direction of the working coil (WC).

[0246] As an example, each first coil section (1120) may include three to six coil patterns (Cp). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and each coil section (112) may include more than six coil patterns (Cp).

[0247] In this embodiment, it is exemplified that each first coil portion (1120) includes three to six coil patterns (Cp). Accordingly, in each first coil portion (1120), three to six coil patterns (Cp) can be arranged along the diametric direction of the working coil (WC). The coil pattern (Cp) arranged in each first coil portion (1120) can be vertically connected to any one of the coil patterns (Cp) arranged in another first coil portion (1120) that is vertically adjacent.

[0248] Additionally, the first coil substrate portion (1100) may further include a second non-patterned region (1105). The second non-patterned region (1105), like the first non-patterned region (1103), corresponds to an area in which the first coil portion (1120) is not formed.

[0249] In the horizontal direction, the second non-patterned area (1105) may be arranged outside the first non-patterned area (1103). In the present embodiment, the second non-patterned area (1105) is exemplified as being arranged outside the first non-patterned area (1103) in the first direction.

[0250] In addition, in each first coil substrate portion (1100), the first non-patterned region (1103) and the second non-patterned region (1105) are not connected in the horizontal direction. With respect to the horizontal direction, at least a portion of the sensing coil (SC) may be arranged between the first non-patterned region (1103) and the second non-patterned region (1105). That is, at least a portion of the first coil portion (1120) may be arranged between the first non-patterned region (1103) and the second non-patterned region (1105).

[0251] In one embodiment, a plurality of second non-patterned regions (1105) may be arranged along the first direction for each working coil (WC). As an example, a pair of second non-patterned regions (1105) may be arranged for each working coil (WC). The pair of second non-patterned regions (1105) may be arranged on the outer side of the first non-patterned region (1103) in the first direction. That is, with respect to the first direction, the first non-patterned region (1103) may be arranged between a pair of second non-patterned regions (1105).

[0252] In addition, in one embodiment, a plurality of working coils (WC) may be arranged along a first direction. A plurality of second non-patterned regions (1105) provided to the plurality of working coils (WC) arranged in this manner may be arranged at equal intervals along the first direction.

[0253] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, a second coil substrate portion (1200) may be disposed above or below the first coil substrate portion (1100). A sensing coil (SC) may be formed by the second coil substrate portion (1200). The sensing coil (SC) may be disposed above or below the first coil substrate portion (1100). The sensing coil (SC) may be disposed in an area that overlaps the first coil substrate portion (1100) in the vertical direction.

[0254] As illustrated in FIGS. 6 to 7 and 20 to 21, the sensing coil (SC) may be arranged on the vertical outer side of the working coil (WC) in each coil module (1001, 1003). For example, the sensing coil (SC) and the working coil (WC) may be arranged vertically in each coil module (1001, 1003).

[0255] In the horizontal direction, at least a portion of the sensing coils (SC) can be arranged in the second non-patterned region (1105). Thus, as a plurality of second non-patterned regions (1105) are arranged at equal intervals along the first direction, a plurality of sensing coils (SC) can be arranged at equal intervals along the first direction.

[0256] As described above, since a plurality of second non-pattern regions (1105) are arranged at equal intervals along the first direction, a plurality of sensing coils (SC) can be arranged at equal intervals along the first direction. In one embodiment, at least a portion of each sensing coil (SC) can be arranged in the second non-pattern region (1105). Accordingly, when a plurality of second non-pattern regions (1105) are arranged at equal intervals along the first direction, a plurality of sensing coils (SC) can be arranged at equal intervals along the first direction.

[0257] In one embodiment, the temperature sensor (TS) may be positioned transversely inside the sensing coil (SC). In the transverse direction, at least a portion of the temperature sensor (TS) may be positioned in the second non-patterned region (1105).

[0258] As an example, the temperature sensor (TS) may be placed in the second non-patterned area (1105). That is, the temperature sensor (TS) installed in the second coil substrate portion (1200) and the second non-patterned area (1105) formed in the first coil substrate portion (1100) may be placed to overlap in the vertical direction.

[0259] To this end, each sensing coil (SC) can be placed at a position where the entire temperature sensor (TS) can be placed in the second non-pattern area (1105), i.e., a position where the entire temperature sensor (TS) can overlap with the second non-pattern area (1105) in the vertical direction.

[0260] As illustrated in FIGS. 17 to 18 and 22 to 23, each first coil portion (1120) may include a fourth terminal (1121) and a fifth terminal (1122), respectively. The fourth terminal (1121) and the fifth terminal (1122) may connect a plurality of coil patterns (Cp) arranged in a horizontal direction, i.e., a plurality of coil patterns (Cp) forming one first coil portion (1120).

[0261] In the horizontal direction, the fourth terminal (1121) may be arranged outside the first non-patterned area (1103) and the fifth terminal (1122), and at least a portion of the fifth terminal (1122) may be arranged to be in contact with the first non-patterned area (1103). Accordingly, in the horizontal direction, the second non-patterned area (1105) may be arranged between the fourth terminal (1121) and the fifth terminal (1122).

[0262] Additionally, based on the second non-pattern region (1105), the fourth terminal (1121) can be placed in a horizontal outer region of the first coil portion (1120), and the fifth terminal (1122) can be placed in a horizontal inner region of the first coil portion (1120).

[0263] As an example, the fourth terminal (1121) may be arranged at the outermost side in the horizontal direction of the first coil portion (1120), and the fifth terminal (1122) may be arranged at the innermost side in the horizontal direction of the first coil portion (1120). For example, the fourth terminal (1121) may be connected to the outermost end in the horizontal direction of the coil pattern (Cp). And the fifth terminal (1122) may be connected to the innermost end of the coil pattern (Cp).

[0264] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 20, a coil assembly (1000) according to one embodiment may further include a terminal portion (1020).

[0265] A terminal portion (1020) may be provided for connection between a power supply portion that supplies power and a working coil (WC).

[0266] In the horizontal direction, the terminal portion (1020) may be arranged on the outside of a group of multiple working coils (WC). The terminal portion (1020) may be connected to at least one of the fourth terminal (1121) and the fifth terminal (1122).

[0267] The terminal portion (1020) may include a first terminal (1021). The first terminal (1021) may be connected to a fourth terminal (1121). The first terminal (1021) may be connected to a working coil (WC) via the fourth terminal (1121).

[0268] The terminal portion (1020) may include a second terminal (1023). The second terminal (1023) may be connected to a fifth terminal (1122). The second terminal (1023) may be connected to a working coil (WC) via the fifth terminal (1122).

[0269] The fourth terminal (1121) and the fifth terminal (1122) may be respectively arranged on the first coil substrate portion (1100) and the first outer layer portion (1300). That is, the fourth terminal (1121) and the fifth terminal (1122) may be formed on the same layer as the layer on which the first coil portion (1120) is formed.

[0270] In one embodiment, a plurality of working coils (WC) may be arranged in a matrix form in each coil module (1001, 1003). That is, a plurality of working coils (WC) may be arranged in a first direction, and a plurality of working coils (WC) may also be arranged in a second direction.

[0271] As an example, each terminal portion (1020) may include a plurality of first terminals (1021) arranged in a first direction. In addition, in each coil module (1001, 1003), a plurality of working coils (WC) adjacent in a second direction may be connected to each other so as to operate simultaneously. Accordingly, each first terminal (1021) may be connected to one working coil (WC). And the second terminal (1023) may be connected to a plurality of working coils (WC) adjacent in the second direction.

[0272] For example, when a plurality of working coils (WC) are arranged in a 2-column x 4-row configuration in each coil module (1001, 1003), a pair of terminal portions (1020) may be provided for each coil module (1001, 1003). The pair of terminal portions (1020) may be arranged to be spaced apart in the first direction with the assembly of the plurality of working coils (WC) interposed therebetween. That is, one of the pair of terminal portions (1020) may be arranged on the front side of the assembly of the plurality of working coils (WC), and the other of the pair of terminal portions (1020) may be arranged on the rear side of the assembly of the plurality of working coils (WC).

[0273] In each coil module (1001, 1003), a plurality of working coils (WC) can be divided into halves in the form of 2 columns x 2 rows, and each terminal portion (1020) can be connected to adjacent working coils (WC) in the form of 2 columns x 2 rows. For example, among a pair of terminal portions (1020), the one arranged on the front side can be connected to four working coils (WC) arranged on the front side on the coil module (1001, 1003), and among a pair of terminal portions (1020), the one arranged on the rear side can be connected to four working coils (WC) arranged on the rear side on the coil module (1001, 1003).

[0274] As described above, the fourth terminal (1121) may be connected to the outermost end in the horizontal direction of the working coil (WC), and the fifth terminal (1122) may be connected to the innermost end of the working coil (WC). As an example, each of the fourth terminals (1121) may be positioned at a position biased toward the terminal portion (1020) to be connected.

[0275] That is, for the second direction, each fourth terminal (1121) may be arranged at a position closer to the end than the center of the working coil (WC), but may be arranged at a position biased toward the terminal portion (1020) to which it is connected. For example, the fourth terminal (1121) provided to four working coils (WC) adjacent to the one arranged at the front side among a pair of terminal portions (1020) may be arranged at a position biased toward the front side on the working coil (WC).

[0276] In one embodiment, each terminal portion (1020) may include a pair of first terminals (1021) arranged in a first direction. Each first terminal (1021) may be connected to one fourth terminal (1121), thereby being connected to only one working coil (WC). Each first terminal (1021) may electrically connect one working coil (WC) to a power supply, such as a driving circuit (300) and a load circuit (350).

[0277] The second terminal (1023) can connect the working coil (WC) to the ground terminal. The second terminal (1023) can be connected to a pair of fifth terminals (1122) adjacent in the second direction. That is, the second terminal (1023) can connect a pair of working coils (WC) adjacent in the second direction to the ground terminal.

[0278] As an example, the terminal portion (1020) may be provided on the first coil substrate portion (1100), the second coil substrate portion (1200), and the outer layer portions (1300, 1350) that are stacked vertically, respectively. For example, the first terminal (1021) provided on the first coil substrate portion (1100), the second coil substrate portion (1200), the first outer layer portion (1300), and the second outer layer portion (1350) may be stacked vertically, respectively. The first terminals (1021) may be electrically connected through vias.

[0279] The second terminals (1023) provided on the first coil substrate portion (1100), the second coil substrate portion (1200), the first outer layer portion (1300), and the second outer layer portion (1350) can be stacked in the vertical direction. The second terminals (1023) can be electrically connected through vias.

[0280] As another example, the terminal portion (1020) may be provided only on the second outer layer portion (1350). That is, the terminal portion (1020) may be placed only on the upper side of the coil module (1001, 1003).

[0281] Each coil module (1001, 1003) includes a plurality of sensing coils (SC), and the plurality of sensing coils (SC) can be arranged at a predetermined interval along the first direction. In addition, the second outer layer (1350) and the second coil substrate (1200) can include a fourth terminal (1121) and a fifth terminal (1122), similar to the first coil substrate (1100), respectively. That is, the fourth terminal (1121) and the fifth terminal (1122) can be formed in the same layer as the layer in which the second coil portion (1220) is formed.

[0282] Each terminal portion (1020) may further include a third terminal (1025). The third terminal (1025) may connect the sensing coil (SC) to the power supply. The third terminal (1025) may be provided on the second outer layer portion (1350) and may also be provided on the second coil substrate portion (1200). The third terminal (1025) may be formed on the same layer as the sensing coil (SC) (e.g., the layer on which the second coil portion (1220) is formed).

[0283]

[0284] [Layout structure of working coils per coil module]

[0285] As illustrated in FIG. 8, each coil module (1001, 1003) may have a plurality of working coils (WC) arranged in a first direction. For example, each coil module (1001, 1003) may have a plurality of working coils (WC) arranged along the first direction and may also be arranged in a second direction. That is, each coil module (1001, 1003) may have a plurality of working coils (WC) arranged in a matrix form.

[0286] At this time, each working coil (WC) may be arranged to be spaced apart from other adjacent working coils (WC) in the first direction by a predetermined distance in the first direction, and may be spaced apart from other adjacent working coils (WC) in the second direction by a predetermined distance in the second direction.

[0287] In one embodiment, the length of the coil module (1001, 1003) in the first direction may be set shorter than the length of the coil module (1001, 1003) in the second direction. That is, each coil module (1001, 1003) may be formed into a rectangle, but may be formed into a rectangle in which the length in the second direction is longer than the length in the first direction.

[0288] In comparison, the length of the working coil (WC) in the second direction can be set shorter than the length of the working coil (WC) in the first direction. That is, each working coil (WC) can be formed into a rectangle, but can be formed into a rectangle in which the length in the first direction is longer than the length in the second direction.

[0289] In each coil module (1001, 1003), the number of working coils (WC) arranged on the same straight line in the second direction may be greater than the number of working coils (WC) arranged on the same straight line in the first direction.

[0290] In one embodiment, the first coil module (1001) may include a plurality of working coils (WC) arranged in an A column × B row configuration, and the second coil module (1003) may each include a plurality of working coils (WC) arranged in an A column × C row configuration. In this embodiment, a column is defined as a line along the first direction, and a row is defined as a line along the second direction.

[0291] As an example, the relationship between A, B, and C can be defined as follows:

[0292] A≥1, C≥2, B>C,

[0293] For example, in the first coil module (1001) and the second coil module (1003), one or more working coils (WC) may be arranged in the first direction and two or more in the second direction. In addition, in the first coil module (1001), one or more working coils (WC) may be arranged in the first direction and three or more in the second direction.

[0294] Accordingly, the number of working coils (WC) arranged on the same straight line in the first direction in the first coil module (1001) and the number of working coils (WC) arranged on the same straight line in the first direction in the second coil module (1003) may be set to be the same. In addition, the number of working coils (WC) arranged on the same straight line in the second direction in the second coil module (1003) may be set to be less than the number of working coils (WC) arranged on the same straight line in the second direction in the first coil module (1001).

[0295] As an example, when n first coil modules (1001) are arranged spaced apart along the first direction, n / 2 second coil modules (1003) can be arranged between a pair of first coil modules (1001) arranged at the innermost side in the first direction.

[0296] At this time, each first coil module (1001) may include 16 / n working coils (WC) arranged in a 4 / n column x 4 row format. And each second coil module (1003) may include 12 / n working coils (WC) arranged in a 4 / n column x 3 row format.

[0297] For example, when two first coil modules (1001) are arranged spaced apart along the first direction, one second coil module (1003) may be arranged between a pair of first coil modules (1001) arranged at the innermost side in the first direction. At this time, each first coil module (1001) may include eight working coils (WC) arranged in a 2-column x 4-row configuration.

[0298] And each of the second coil modules (1003) may include six working coils (WC) arranged in a 2-column x 3-row configuration. In this case, the coil assembly (1000) may include a total of 22 working coils (WC).

[0299] As described above, the cooktop (100; see FIG. 3) is provided with a plurality of indicator lights (L; see FIG. 3), and the indicator lights (L) can be implemented by a lighting module (180; see FIG. 4). The lighting module (180) is arranged at the lower side of the coil assembly (1000), and light emitted from the lighting module (180) can pass through the coil assembly (1000) and illuminate the light display area of ​​the top plate (120).

[0300] In order to allow light emitted from the lighting module (180) to pass through the light display area of ​​the top plate (120), a through hole (h) may be provided in each coil module (1001, 1003). In each coil module (1001, 1003), the through hole (h) may pass through the coil module (1001, 1003) in the vertical direction, and each through hole (h) may be arranged between one row of working coils (WC) and one row of working coils (WC).

[0301] If, as illustrated in FIG. 10, four first coil modules (1001a) are arranged spaced apart from each other along the first direction, two second coil modules (1003a) may be arranged between a pair of first coil modules (1001a) arranged at the innermost side in the first direction. In this case, each of the first coil modules (1001a) may include four working coils (WC) arranged in a 1-column × 4-row configuration.

[0302] When the coil assembly (1000a) is provided in the form described above, a space may be formed between each row of the coil assembly (1000a). This space may be used as a passage for passing light emitted from the lighting module (180) to the light display area of ​​the top plate (120).

[0303] That is, since each coil module (1001a, 1003a) is provided in a form that includes only one row of working coils (WC), there is no need to form a separate through hole in the coil assembly (1000a).

[0304] Also, considering that the size, display, or control panel size may vary for each model, the coil assembly (1000a) provided in the above form may be more advantageous for mass production than the coil assembly in the form illustrated in FIG. 8.

[0305] For example, according to the coil assembly (1000a) provided in the form described above, when producing multiple products with different sizes of displays or control panels, only the size of the second coil module (1003a) can be changed according to the size of the display or control panel, and the first coil module (1001a) can be used in common.

[0306] In addition, according to the coil assembly (1000a) provided in the form described above, only one row of each coil module (1001a, 1003a) needs to be repaired or replaced when necessary, so maintenance becomes easier and maintenance costs are reduced.

[0307] In addition, if each coil module (1001a, 1003a) is provided in a form including only one row of working coils (WC) as described above, the surface area of ​​the coil module (1001a, 1003a) can be relatively widened compared to a form in which each coil module includes two rows of working coils (WC), and air can flow into the space between each coil module (1001a, 1003a), thereby improving the heat dissipation performance of the coil assembly (1000a).

[0308] In comparison, when two or more rows of working coils (WC) are arranged for each coil module (1001, 1003) as illustrated in FIG. 8, the number of coil modules (1001, 1003) to be assembled is reduced compared to the case where only one row of working coils (WC) is arranged for each coil module, so there is an advantage of reduced assembly work.

[0309] In addition, when two or more rows of working coils (WC) are arranged in each coil module (1001, 1003), the space required to form wiring between the working coils (WC) of two adjacent rows can be easily secured in the coil module (1001, 1003), so there is an advantage in that wiring design can be easily and efficiently performed.

[0310] And each second coil module (1003a) may include three working coils (WC) arranged in a 1-column x 3-row configuration. In this case, the coil assembly (1000a) may include a total of 22 working coils (WC).

[0311] As a second example, as illustrated in FIG. 11, each first coil module (1001b) may include 12 / n working coils (WC) arranged in a 4 / n column x 3 row configuration. And each second coil module (1003b) may include 8 / n working coils (WC) arranged in a 4 / n column x 2 row configuration.

[0312] For example, when two first coil modules (1001b) are spaced apart from each other along the first direction, one second coil module (1003b) may be placed between a pair of first coil modules (1001b) placed at the innermost side in the first direction. In this case, each of the first coil modules (1001b) may include six working coils (WC) arranged in a two-column x three-row configuration.

[0313] And each second coil module (1003b) may include four working coils (WC) arranged in a 2-column x 2-row configuration. In this case, the coil assembly (1000b) may include a total of 16 working coils (WC).

[0314] If, as illustrated in FIG. 12, four first coil modules (1001c) are arranged spaced apart along the first direction, two second coil modules (1003c) can be arranged between a pair of first coil modules (1001c) arranged at the innermost side in the first direction.

[0315] At this time, each first coil module (1001c) may include three working coils (WC) arranged in a 1-column x 3-row configuration. And each second coil module (1003c) may include two working coils (WC) arranged in a 1-column x 2-row configuration. In this case, the coil assembly (1000c) may include a total of 16 working coils (WC).

[0316] As a third example, as illustrated in Fig. 13, when two first coil modules (1001d) are spaced apart from each other along the first direction, two second coil modules (1003d) may be arranged between a pair of first coil modules (1001d) arranged at the innermost side in the first direction. In this case, each of the first coil modules (1001d) may include 10 working coils (WC) arranged in a 2-column × 5-row configuration.

[0317] And each second coil module (1003d) may include six working coils (WC) arranged in a 2-column x 3-row configuration. In this case, the coil assembly (1000d) may include a total of 32 working coils (WC).

[0318] As a fourth example, as illustrated in FIG. 14, if four first coil modules (1001e) are arranged spaced apart along the first direction, four second coil modules (1003e) may be arranged between a pair of first coil modules (1001e) arranged at the innermost side in the first direction. In this case, each of the first coil modules (1001e) may include five working coils (WC) arranged in a 1-column × 5-row configuration.

[0319] And each second coil module (1003e) may include three working coils (WC) arranged in a 1-column x 3-row configuration. In this case, the coil assembly (1000e) may include a total of 32 working coils (WC).

[0320] As a fifth example, as illustrated in FIG. 15, when n first coil modules (1001f) are arranged spaced apart along the first direction, each first coil module (1001f) may include 16 / n working coils (WC) arranged in a 4 / n column × 4 row format.

[0321] For example, when two first coil modules (1001f) are arranged spaced apart from each other along the first direction, each first coil module (1001f) may include eight working coils (WC) arranged in a two-column x four-row configuration. In this case, the coil assembly (1000f) may include a total of 16 working coils (WC).

[0322] If, as illustrated in FIG. 16, four first coil modules (1001g) are arranged spaced apart from each other along the first direction, each first coil module (1001g) may include four working coils (WC) arranged in a 1-column × 4-row configuration. In this case, the coil assembly (1000g) may include a total of 16 working coils (WC).

[0323] In the examples described above, the coil assembly may include working coils (WC) all having the same size and shape. Alternatively, the coil assembly may include multiple types of working coils (WC) having different sizes and shapes.

[0324] Fig. 24 is a plan view showing a seventh example of the arrangement structure of the first coil module and the second coil module.

[0325] As another example, the coil assembly (1000h) as illustrated in FIG. 24 may further include at least one of a third coil module (1005) and a fourth coil module (1007). The first coil module (1001) and the third coil module (1005) may be arranged on the same straight line in the second direction, and the second coil module (1003) and the fourth coil module (1007) may be arranged on the same straight line in the second direction.

[0326] Accordingly, for the first direction, a pair of first coil modules (1001) can be arranged spaced apart from each other along the first direction with the second coil module (1003) and the fourth coil module (1007) interposed therebetween.

[0327] Also, with respect to the second direction, the first coil module (1001) may be positioned more protruding to one side than the second coil module (1003), the third coil module (1005) may be positioned more offset to one side than the first coil module (1001), and the fourth coil module (1007) may be positioned more offset to one side than the second coil module (1003).

[0328] That is, the first coil module (1001) having a second direction length longer than the second coil module (1003) protrudes further forward than the second coil module (1003), the third coil module (1005) is positioned further forward than the first coil module (1001), and the fourth coil module (1007) can be positioned further forward than the second coil module (1003). It goes without saying that the third coil module (1005) is positioned further forward than the fourth coil module (1007).

[0329] The third coil module (1005) and the fourth coil module (1007) may be formed to have a smaller horizontal size than the first coil module (1001) and the second coil module (1003). To this end, the third coil module (1005) may include a working coil having a smaller horizontal size than the working coil provided to the first coil module (1001).

[0330] As described above, the control panel (130) may be positioned further forward than the second coil module (1003), and a pair of first coil modules (1001) may be positioned spaced apart from each other in the first direction with the control panel (130) interposed therebetween. In addition, a pair of third coil modules (1005) positioned on the front side of the pair of first coil modules (1001) may also be positioned spaced apart from each other in the first direction with the control panel (130) interposed therebetween.

[0331] For the first direction, the length of the third coil module (1005) may be set shorter than the length of the first coil module (1001). And for the second direction, the length of the third coil module (1005) may be set shorter than the length of the first coil module (1001). That is, the third coil module (1005) may be formed to have a shorter first direction length and a shorter second direction length than the first coil module (1001).

[0332] Additionally, the fourth coil module (1007) may be placed at the rear of the control panel (130). For the second direction, the fourth coil module (1007) may be placed between the control panel (130) and the second coil module (1003), and the length of the fourth coil module (1007) may be formed to be shorter than the length of the second coil module (1003).

[0333] As the third coil module (1005) and the fourth coil module (1007) are arranged in the above-described manner, the area in which the control panel (130) is to be arranged can be secured more widely. Accordingly, the control panel (130) can be spaced further apart from the coil modules (1001, 1003) in the horizontal direction, thereby reducing the influence of heat generated around the working coil (WC) on the control panel (130).

[0334]

[0335] [Power supply related configuration]

[0336] Fig. 25 is a schematic diagram showing a power supply-related configuration of a home appliance according to one embodiment. Fig. 26 is a circuit diagram of a home appliance according to one embodiment.

[0337] Referring to FIG. 25, a home appliance according to one embodiment may include a control panel (130), a driving circuit (300), a load circuit (350), a controller (500), and a sensing coil (SC).

[0338] The control panel (130) may be provided with a user interface including various icons for controlling the operation of the cooktop (100) by touch and a display for indicating the operation status of the cooktop (100). The user can input a desired heating level through the control panel (130).

[0339] The load circuit (350) may include at least one working coil, at least one capacitor, and at least one relay. Here, the at least one working coil, at least one capacitor, and at least one relay may be optionally connected in series or parallel.

[0340] The driving circuit (300) can supply a switching signal for driving an inverter included in the load circuit (350).

[0341] According to one embodiment, a home appliance may further include a current measuring circuit (400). The current measuring circuit (400) may measure a resonant current (Ir) and a resonant voltage (Vr) of the load circuit (350) when the inverter included in the load circuit (350) is driven. The controller (500) may calculate an input current applied to the load circuit (350) using the resonant current (Ir) and the resonant voltage (Vr). The controller (500) may calculate an output power value of the working coil based on the input current, and may determine an operating frequency of the inverter included in the load circuit (350) based on the calculated output power value and a heating level input through the control panel (130).

[0342] The controller (500) can supply a control signal corresponding to the determined driving frequency to the driving circuit (300). The driving circuit (300) can generate a switching signal according to the control signal supplied from the controller (500) and supply the switching signal to the load circuit (350).

[0343] The controller (500) can determine whether a container exists above the working coil using the sensing coil (SC). The controller (500) can supply current to the sensing coil (SC) for a predetermined period of time. Based on the resonance signal output by the sensing coil (SC) by the supply of current, the controller (500) can determine whether a container exists above the working coil or above which working coil the container exists.

[0344] In one embodiment, the controller (500) can determine container information including at least one of the container's location, material, shape, and size using a sensing coil (SC). The controller (500) can control at least one relay within the load circuit (350) so that at least one working coil corresponding to the container's location is activated according to the container's location.

[0345] Additionally, the controller (500) can determine or vary the switching frequency of the inverter depending on at least one of the material, shape, and size of the container.

[0346] Referring to FIG. 25, a home appliance according to one embodiment may include a rectifier circuit (Rc), a DC link capacitor (CD), an inverter (INV), a sensing coil (SC), a controller (500), a driving circuit (300), a working coil (WC), and a resonant capacitor (Cr).

[0347] A rectifier circuit (Rc) can rectify and output an input voltage supplied from an external power source (Ps). The rectifier circuit (Rc) may be a circuit including a plurality of diodes (e.g., a bridge circuit).

[0348] A DC link capacitor (CD) can smooth and output the voltage output from the rectifier circuit (Rc).

[0349] An inverter (INV) can output an alternating current using a voltage output from a direct current link capacitor (CD). In one embodiment, the inverter (INV) can include a first switching element (SW1) and a second switching element (SW2). The first switching element (SW1) and the second switching element (SW2) can be turned on and off by a first switching signal (S1) and a second switching signal (S2) supplied by a driving circuit (300). The first switching element (SW1) and the second switching element (SW2) can be alternately turned on and off. In another embodiment, the inverter (INV) can include two or more switching elements.

[0350] The controller (500) can determine whether a container exists above the working coil using the sensing coil (SC). The controller (500) can supply current to the sensing coil (SC) for a predetermined period of time. Based on the resonance signal output by the sensing coil (SC) by the supply of current, the controller (500) can determine whether a container exists above the working coil or above which working coil the container exists.

[0351] The controller (500) can determine the driving frequency of the inverter included in the load circuit (350) based on the output power value of the working coil (WC) and the heating level input through the control panel (130). The controller (500) can supply a control signal corresponding to the driving frequency of the inverter (INV) to the driving circuit (300). When the control signal is supplied to the driving circuit (300), the driving circuit (300) can output switching signals (S1, S2). When the first switching signal (S1) and the second switching signal (S2) are supplied to the inverter (INV), the first switching element (SW1) and the second switching element (SW2) can be alternately turned on and off. Accordingly, an alternating current can be output from the inverter (INV). When the alternating current output from the inverter (INV) is supplied to the working coil (WC), a container provided on top of the working coil (WC) can be heated.

[0352] A resonant capacitor (Cr) may be connected to one end of the working coil (WC). When an alternating current is supplied to the working coil (WC), a resonant phenomenon may occur between the working coil (WC), the resonant capacitor (Cr), and the container.

[0353] In Fig. 26, only one working coil (WC) and one resonant capacitor (Cr) are illustrated as examples. However, in other embodiments, the appliance may include multiple working coils and resonant capacitors.

[0354]

[0355] [Shape of the working coil]

[0356] Fig. 27 is a plan view showing the structure of a working coil according to one embodiment.

[0357] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 27, the working coil (WC) may be formed into a shape including a polygonal shape. For example, the horizontal outer shape of the working coil (WC) may be a polygonal shape. In other words, the shape of the working coil (WC) when viewed from above may be a polygonal shape.

[0358] For example, the outer shape of the working coil (WC) may be approximately rectangular. In addition, the outer shape of the coil module (1001, 1003) including the working coil (WC) may also be polygonal. In addition, the working coil (WC) may be formed by a conductor patterned on an insulating layer. For example, the working coil (WC) may be formed by a conductor patterned on an insulating layer rather than a Litz coil wound in a nearly circular shape.

[0359] By forming the working coil (WC) in a pattern shape in this way, the outer shape of the working coil (WC) can be easily formed into a polygonal shape, more specifically, into a roughly rectangular shape.

[0360] In addition, since the outer shape of the working coil (WC) is formed in a shape, the working coil (WC) can occupy an area very close to the edge of the coil module (1001, 1003), so that the density of the area occupied by the working coil (WC) within the coil module (1001, 1003) can be effectively increased.

[0361] Additionally, the horizontal outer shape of each first coil substrate portion (1100) (hereinafter referred to as “outer shape of the first coil substrate portion”) may be a polygonal shape. For example, the outer shape of the first coil substrate portion (1100) may be approximately rectangular.

[0362] In addition, the horizontal outer shape of the core (1110) forming the skeleton of each first coil substrate portion (1100) (hereinafter referred to as “outer shape of the core”) may be a polygonal shape, similar to the shape of the coil module (1001, 1003) and the first coil substrate portion (1100).

[0363] As an example, the working coil (WC) may be formed in a square spiral shape. For example, the working coil (WC) may be formed in a square spiral shape in which a first straight line (l1), which is a straight line in a first direction, and a second straight line (L2), which is a straight line in a second direction, are alternately connected to each other. In addition, the outer shape of the core (1110) of the first coil substrate portion (1100) forming the working coil (WC) may be formed in a square shape similar to the outer shape of the working coil (WC).

[0364] Accordingly, at least one of the plurality of outer edges of the working coil (WC) may include a straight line parallel to one of the plurality of outer edges of the core (1110) that is closest thereto. For example, the first straight line (L1) arranged at the frontmost side of the working coil (WC) may be formed as a straight line parallel to the front-side outer edge of the core (1110), and the second straight line (L2) arranged at the rightmost side of the working coil (WC) may be formed as a straight line parallel to the right-side outer edge of the core (1110).

[0365] By forming the outer shape of the core (1110) and the outer shape of the working coil (WC) in the above-described form, the working coil (WC) can occupy an area very close to the edge of the coil module (1001, 1003), and the density of the area occupied by the working coil (WC) within the coil module (1001, 1003) can be effectively increased.

[0366] Additionally, in one embodiment, each coil module (1001, 1003) may include a plurality of working coils (WC). That is, each coil module (1001, 1003) may include an assembly of a plurality of working coils (WC) arranged in a horizontal direction. For example, each coil module (1001, 1003) may be provided with an assembly of working coils (WC) including eight working coils (WC) arranged in a 2-column x 4-row configuration along the horizontal direction.

[0367] In one embodiment, the outer shape of the assembly of working coils (WC) may be a polygonal shape. That is, the outer shape of each coil module (1001, 1003) and the outer shape of the assembly of working coils (WC) provided in the coil module (1001, 1003) may both be a polygonal shape.

[0368] As an example, the outer shape of a group of working coils (WC) may be arranged in a square shape. That is, a plurality of working coils (WC) provided in each coil module (1001, 1003) may be arranged in a square shape.

[0369] As another example, the outer shape of the working coil (WC) may be hexagonal. For example, the working coil (WC) may be formed in a hexagonal spiral shape. Accordingly, a plurality of working coils may be arranged in a honeycomb shape in the coil module. By arranging a plurality of working coils (WC), each formed in a hexagonal spiral shape, in a honeycomb shape, the centers of all working coils (WC) can be maintained at the same distance. For example, the working coils (WC) may be arranged such that the center distance from other adjacent working coils (WC) is maintained at a specified value.

[0370] As another example, the outer shape of the working coil may be circular or elliptical. For example, the working coil may be formed into a spiral shape similar to a circular or elliptical shape. Even in this case, the coil modules may be arranged so that the centers of all working coils provided in the coil module are equally spaced.

[0371]

[0372] [Structure of the sensing coil]

[0373] Fig. 28 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a laminated structure of a second outer layer portion and a second coil substrate portion. Fig. 29 is a plan view showing an example structure of a second coil portion arranged on the outermost side of the coil module illustrated in Fig. 28. Fig. 30 is a plan view showing an example structure of a second coil portion arranged under the adhesive illustrated in Fig. 28.

[0374] Referring to Fig. 7, a sensing coil (SC) may be formed by a second coil portion (1220) included in a second coil substrate portion (1200). Each sensing coil (SC) may be formed by one second coil portion, or may be formed as a result of a plurality of second coil portions (1220) stacked vertically and connected vertically.

[0375] As an example, the sensing coil (SC) may be placed on the upper side of the working coil (WC). Each second coil substrate portion (1200) may include a core (1210) and a second coil portion (1220). In addition, each second coil substrate portion (1200) may further include a first coil portion (1120).

[0376] The second coil portion (1220) may be arranged on at least one of the upper and lower sides of the core (1210). For example, when the second coil substrate portion (1200) includes both the first coil portion (1120) and the second coil portion (1220), the first coil portion (1120) may be arranged on one upper and lower side of the core (1210), and the second coil portion (1220) may be arranged on the other upper and lower side of the core (1210). For example, the first coil portion (1120) may be provided in a patterned form on the lower side of the core (1210), and the second coil portion (1220) may be provided in a patterned form on the upper side of the core (1210).

[0377] When the second coil substrate part (1200) includes only the core (1210) and the second coil part (1220), the second coil parts (1220) may be arranged on each of the upper and lower sides of the core (1210). For example, each of the second coil substrate parts (1200) may be provided in a form in which one layer of the second coil parts (1220) is formed on each of the upper and lower sides of the core (1210). The second coil parts (1220) may be provided in a form in which they are patterned on each of the upper and lower sides of the core (1210) similarly to the first coil part (1120).

[0378] Hereinafter, each second coil substrate portion (1200) includes a core (1210), a first coil portion (1120), and a second coil portion (1220), and the first coil portion (1120) is provided in a patterned form on the lower side of the core (1210), and the second coil portion (1220) is provided in a patterned form on the upper side of the core (1210).

[0379] A second outer layer (1350) may be arranged on the upper side of the second coil substrate portion (1200). The second outer layer (1350) may include a second coil portion (1220) like the second coil substrate portion (1200). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 28, an adhesive (1400) may be laminated on the upper side of the second coil substrate portion (1200), and a second coil portion (1220a) may be laminated on the upper side of the adhesive (1400). The second coil portion (1220b) included in the second coil substrate portion (1200) and the second coil portion (1220a) included in the second outer layer portion (1350) may be vertically connected to form one sensing coil (SC).

[0380] Additionally, a plurality of second coil portions (1220) may be arranged horizontally on each of the second coil substrate portion (1200) and the second outer layer portion (1350). Accordingly, the coil module (1001, 1003) may include a plurality of sensing coils (SC) arranged horizontally.

[0381] In each coil module (1001, 1003), the sensing coil (SC) may be placed on the upper and lower outer side of the first coil substrate portion (1100). For example, the sensing coil (SC) may be placed on the upper or lower side of the first coil substrate portion (1100).

[0382] As another example, the sensing coil (SC) may be placed below the working coil (WC). In this case, the second coil substrate portion (1200) may be placed below the first coil substrate portion (1100), and the second coil portion (1220) may be placed below the core (1210). In addition, the outer layer portion (1300, 1350) formed in the same or similar shape as the second coil portion (1220) may be placed below the second coil portion (1220) and may be vertically connected to the second coil portion (1220).

[0383] As another example, the sensing coil (SC) may be arranged inside the working coil (WC). In this case, at least one first coil substrate part (1100) may be arranged on the lower side of the second coil substrate part (1200), and at least one first coil substrate part (1100) may also be arranged on the upper side of the second coil substrate part (1200). Accordingly, the sensing coil (SC) may be arranged between the stacks of the first coil substrate parts (1100), thereby being arranged inside the working coil (WC) formed by the stacks of the first coil substrate parts (1100).

[0384] In one embodiment, the coil assembly (1000) may further include a connecting portion (1040). The connecting portion (1040) may vertically connect a coil substrate laminate (1010) having a second coil substrate portion (1200) and a second outer layer portion (1350) stacked vertically or a coil substrate laminate (1010) having a plurality of second coil substrate portions (1200) stacked vertically.

[0385] Each coil module (1001, 1003) may include a plurality of connecting portions (1040). Each connecting portion (1040) may vertically connect a plurality of second coil portions (1220) arranged in the same straight line in the vertical direction.

[0386] As an example, when the second outer layer (1350) is laminated on the upper side of the second coil substrate portion (1200) in the coil substrate laminate (1010), each connecting portion (1040) can vertically penetrate the second outer layer (1350) and the second coil substrate portion (1200) and vertically connect the second coil portions (1220). In this case, each sensing coil (SC) can be formed as a result of the second outer layer (1350) and the second coil portion (1220) of the second coil substrate portion (1200) being vertically connected by the connecting portion (1040).

[0387] As another example, when a plurality of second coil parts (1220) are stacked vertically on each coil substrate laminate (1010), each connecting part (1040) can vertically penetrate the plurality of second coil substrate parts (1200) and vertically connect the second coil parts (1220). In this case, each sensing coil (SC) can be formed as a result of the second coil parts (1220) of the plurality of second coil substrate parts (1200) stacked vertically being vertically connected by the connecting part (1040).

[0388] The connecting portion (1040) may be placed in an area of ​​the second coil substrate portion (1200) where the first coil portion (1120) is not placed, and may be horizontally connected to the second coil portion (1220) or the outer layer portion (1300, 1350). Each connecting portion (1040) may include a via (V).

[0389] Each via (V) can vertically connect the outer layer portion (1300, 1350) and the second coil portion (1220), which are arranged on the same straight line in the vertical direction. Each via (V) can be arranged in an area of ​​the second coil substrate portion (1200) where the first coil portion (1120) is not arranged, and can be horizontally connected to the second coil portion (1220) or the outer layer portion (1300, 1350).

[0390] Each via (V) may include a hole portion (Va), an inner wall portion (Vb), and a land portion (Vc). The hole portion (Va) may be formed in the shape of a hole that vertically penetrates at least a portion of the coil substrate laminate (1010). The hole portion (Va) may vertically penetrate an area of ​​the coil substrate laminate (1010) where the first coil substrate portion (1100) is laminated.

[0391] The inner wall portion (Vb) is arranged inside the hole portion (Va) and can vertically connect a plurality of coil patterns (Cp) that are stacked vertically. The inner wall portion (Vb) includes a conductor arranged in the hole portion (Va) and can electrically connect a plurality of coil patterns (Cp) that are stacked vertically. As an example, the inner wall portion (Vb) can be formed in the form of a copper foil that is plated on the inner wall of the first coil substrate portion (1100) that surrounds the hole portion (Va).

[0392] The land portion (Vc) can electrically connect the inner wall portion (Vb) and the coil pattern (Cp). The land portion (Vc) can be formed in the form of a copper foil plated on the upper or lower surface of the first coil substrate portion (1100), and can be electrically connected to the inner wall portion (Vb) and the coil pattern (Cp), respectively.

[0393] Fig. 29 is a plan view showing an exemplary structure of a second coil portion (1220a) positioned on the outermost surface of the coil module illustrated in Fig. 28. Also, Fig. 30 is a plan view showing an exemplary structure of a second coil portion positioned on the lower portion of the adhesive (1400) illustrated in Fig. 28.

[0394] Referring to FIGS. 29 and 30, a second coil portion (1220a) disposed on the outermost surface of a coil module according to one embodiment and another second coil portion (1220b) disposed below the second coil portion (1220a) may each be formed with a plurality of sensing coils (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4, ...) and a plurality of wiring batons (Wpa, Wpb, Wpc) connected to the respective sensing coils. A temperature sensor (TS1, TS2, TS3, TS4, ...) may be disposed at the center of each sensing coil (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4, ...). In addition, a terminal portion (1020) for electrical connection between a power supply portion (not shown) and a working coil or between a power supply portion and the sensing coils (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4, ...) may be formed in the second coil portion (1220a) and the second coil portion (1220b).

[0395] For reference, only some (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4) of the multiple sensing coils included in the coil module are shown in FIGS. 29 and 30.

[0396] The terminal portion (1020) may include a first terminal (1021). The first terminal (1021) may be connected to a fourth terminal (1121). The first terminal (1021) may be connected to a working coil (WC) via the fourth terminal (1121).

[0397] The terminal portion (1020) may include a second terminal (1023). The second terminal (1023) is connected to a fifth terminal (1122). The second terminal (1023) may be connected to a working coil (WC) via the fifth terminal (1122).

[0398] The terminal portion (12020) may include a third terminal (1025). The third terminal (1025) may connect the sensing coil (SC) to a power supply.

[0399] A first wiring pattern (Wpa), a second wiring pattern (Wpb), and a wiring pattern (Wpc) can be formed in the second coil portion (1220a) and the second coil portion (1220b).

[0400] The first wiring pattern (Wpa) can electrically connect the fourth terminal (1121).

[0401] The second wiring pattern (Wpb) can electrically connect the second terminal (1023) and the fifth terminal (1122).

[0402] The wiring pattern (Wpc) can electrically connect each of the sensing coils (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4) and the third terminal (1025). For example, the wiring pattern (Wpc) can include a first wiring (SL1) electrically connecting the first sensing coil (SC1) and the third terminal (1025), a second wiring (SL2) electrically connecting the second sensing coil (SC2) and the third terminal (1025), a wiring (SL3) electrically connecting the third sensing coil (SC3) and the third terminal (1025), and a fourth wiring (SL4) electrically connecting the fourth sensing coil (SC4) and the third terminal (1025).

[0403] In one embodiment, each of the wires (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) included in the wiring pattern (Wpc) may be formed with the same thickness (e.g., 1 oz or 2 oz, etc.).

[0404] Meanwhile, each of the sensing coils (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4) may be arranged in a matrix form. And the third terminal (1025) connected to each of the sensing coils (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4) may be arranged on one side of each of the sensing coils (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4). Therefore, the distance between each of the sensing coils (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4) and the third terminal (1025) may be different. As a result, the length of each of the wires (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) connecting each of the sensing coils (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4) and the third terminal (1025) may be different. For example, the length of the first wire (SL1) electrically connecting the first sensing coil (SC1) and the third terminal (1025) may be shorter than the length of the wire (SL3) electrically connecting the third sensing coil (SC3) and the third terminal (1025).

[0405] In this way, if the length of each wire (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) is different, the resistance (or resistance value) of each wire (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) may be different. This is because the resistance of the wire is proportional to the length of the wire and inversely proportional to the width of the wire. Due to this difference in the resistance of each wire (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4), a difference may occur in the container detection performance of each sensing coil (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4) during the container detection process using each sensing coil.

[0406] To solve this problem, the width of each wire (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) can be set to be proportional to the length of each wire (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4).

[0407] In an exemplary embodiment, the length of each wire (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) connected between the third terminal (1025) and each sensing coil (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4) may be as follows.

[0408]

[0409] Wiring length (mm)SL175SL2100SL3142SL4182

[0410]

[0411] When the first wire (SL1) among the four wires is set as the reference wire, the ratio of the length of the other wires to the length of the first wire (SL1) can be calculated as follows.

[0412]

[0413] Wiring ratio SL11.0SL21.3SL31.9SL42.4

[0414]

[0415] Accordingly, the width of each wire (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) can be set as a value obtained by multiplying the width of the reference wire (SL1) by the ratio of each wire, as shown below.

[0416]

[0417] Wiring width (mm)SL10.3SL20.39SL30.57SL40.72

[0418]

[0419] In this way, the width of each wire (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) can be set to a value obtained by multiplying the ratio of the length of each wire to the length of a predetermined reference wire (e.g., the first wire (SL1)) by the width of the reference wire (e.g., 0.3).

[0420] In one embodiment, the width of each wire (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) may be set to be proportional to the length of each wire.

[0421] In one embodiment, the length of each wire (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) or the width of each wire (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) may be set differently depending on the distance between the third terminal (1025) and each sensing coil (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4).

[0422] In one embodiment, the length of each wire (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) or the width of each wire (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) may be proportional to the distance between the third terminal (1025) and each sensing coil (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4).

[0423] This is only one embodiment, and the reference wiring may be set differently depending on the embodiment. In addition, the length of each wiring (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) and the width of each wiring (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) accordingly may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0424] According to such embodiments, the resistance values ​​of each wire (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4) electrically connecting the third terminal (1025) and each sensing coil (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4) can be standardized. Accordingly, when container detection is performed using each sensing coil (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4), the uniformity of the container detection performance of each sensing coil (SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4) can be guaranteed.

[0425]

[0426] [Example of a coil module with a coating layer applied]

[0427] Fig. 31 is a drawing showing a state in which an insulating coating layer is covered on the outermost surface of a coil module according to one embodiment. Fig. 32 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a laminated structure of the coil module shown in Fig. 31. Fig. 33 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of a laminated structure of the coil module shown in Fig. 31. Fig. 34 is a drawing showing a process of forming an insulating coating layer and a conductive coating layer on the outermost surface of a coil module according to one embodiment.

[0428] Referring to FIGS. 31 to 33, an insulating coating layer (1500) may be coated or laminated on the upper and lower outermost surfaces of the coil modules (1001, 1003) according to one embodiment. That is, the insulating coating layer (1500) may cover the upper and lower surfaces of the coil modules (1001, 1003), respectively. The insulating coating layer (1500) may form the outer surface of the coil modules (1001, 1003). The insulating coating layer (1500) may be an insulating / heat-resistant covering that protects circuit patterns (e.g., coil portions (1120, 1120) or wiring patterns (Wpa, Wpb, Wpc)) arranged on the upper and lower surfaces of the coil modules (1001, 1003).

[0429] The insulating coating layer (1500) may be formed of an insulating material. In one embodiment, the insulating coating layer (1500) may be formed by a solder resist printed on the upper and lower outermost surfaces of the coil substrate laminate (1010). As an example, the insulating coating layer (1500) may be formed by curing photo solder resist ink printed on the upper and lower surfaces of the coil modules (1001, 1003) by ultraviolet rays.

[0430] As illustrated in FIG. 32, an insulating coating layer (1500) according to one embodiment may be coated or laminated before a via (V) is formed in a coil module (1001, 1003). That is, the insulating coating layer (1500) may be first coated or laminated on the upper and lower outer surfaces of the coil substrate laminate (1010) and then the via (V) may be formed. According to this embodiment, a part of the via (V), for example, a land portion (Vc), may be exposed to the outside from the surface of the insulating coating layer (1500).

[0431] As illustrated in FIG. 33, an insulating coating layer (1500) according to another embodiment may be coated or laminated after a via (V) is formed in the coil module (1001, 1003). That is, a via (V) may be first formed in the coil substrate laminate (1010) and then the insulating coating layer (1500) may be coated or laminated on the upper and lower outer surfaces of the coil substrate laminate (1010). According to this embodiment, the via (V) may be covered by the insulating coating layer (1500).

[0432] Referring to FIG. 34, an insulating coating layer (1500) may be formed on the outermost surface of the coil substrate laminate (1010). In addition, a conductive coating layer (1510) covering at least a portion of the second coil portion (1220) may be formed on the outermost surface of the coil substrate laminate (1010).

[0433] As illustrated in FIG. 7, FIG. 28 to FIG. 30, a wiring batten including a plurality of sensing coils and a plurality of wires may be formed in the second coil portion (1220). In one embodiment, the conductive coating layer (1510) may cover at least a portion of the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires formed in the second coil portion (1220).

[0434] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 34, an insulating coating layer (1500) covering the entire outermost surface of the coil substrate laminate (1010) may be first coated or laminated. Accordingly, a plurality of sensing coils and a plurality of wires formed in the second coil portion (1220) may be covered by the insulating coating layer (1500).

[0435] Next, a portion of the insulating coating layer (1500), i.e., the insulating coating layer (1500) covering the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires, may be removed. Accordingly, the plurality of sensing coils and the plurality of wires formed in the second coil portion (1220) may be exposed to the outside.

[0436] Next, a conductive coating layer (1510) may be coated or laminated on a plurality of sensing coils or a plurality of wires formed in the second coil portion (1220) exposed to the outside. Accordingly, at least a portion of the plurality of sensing coils and the plurality of wires formed in the second coil portion (1220) may be covered by the conductive coating layer (1510).

[0437] The conductive coating layer (1510) may be formed of a conductive material such as metal. Accordingly, when a plurality of sensing coils or a plurality of wires are covered with the conductive coating layer (1510), the resistance (or resistance value) of the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires is reduced. When the resistance of the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires is reduced, less power is consumed when container detection is performed using the sensing coils, thereby increasing the power efficiency of the coil module and the home appliance including the coil module.

[0438]

[0439] [Electrical connection structure between the second coil sections]

[0440] Fig. 35 is a drawing showing an electrical connection structure between second coil sections arranged in different layers according to one embodiment. Fig. 36 is a drawing showing an electrical connection structure between second coil sections arranged in different layers according to another embodiment.

[0441] A coil module according to one embodiment may include two or more second coil portions arranged in different layers. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 28, the coil module may include a second coil portion (1220a) arranged on the outermost surface of the coil module and a second coil portion (1220b) arranged on a lower body of an adhesive (1400) laminated under the second coil portion (1220a).

[0442] The sensing coil or wiring formed in the second coil part (1220a) can be electrically connected to the sensing coil or wiring formed in the second coil part (1220b) which is arranged in a different layer from the second coil part (1220a) by a via (V). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 35, a first via (V1) formed at one end of the wiring formed in the second coil part (1220a) and a second via (V2) formed at one end of the wiring formed in the second coil part (1220b) overlap and contact each other to form one via, whereby the wiring formed in the second coil part (1220a) and the wiring formed in the second coil part (1220b) can be electrically connected.

[0443] Each of the vias (V1, V2) illustrated in Fig. 35 may be made of a conductive material such as metal. Therefore, the resistance (or resistance value) of the sensing coil or wiring formed in the second coil section (1220a) or the second coil section (1220b) may increase due to the vias (V1, V2).

[0444] In order to reduce the resistance of the sensing coil or wiring due to the vias (V1, V2), the second coil parts (1220a, 1220b) arranged in different layers in the coil module according to another embodiment may be electrically connected by a plurality of vias.

[0445] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 36, a first via (V1) formed at one end of a wiring formed in a second coil portion (1220a) may overlap and contact a third via (V3) formed at one end of a wiring formed in a second coil portion (1220b) to form one via. In addition, a second via (V2) formed at one end of a wiring formed in a second coil portion (1220a) may overlap and contact a fourth via (V4) formed at one end of a wiring formed in a second coil portion (1220b) to form one via. Accordingly, a wiring formed in a second coil portion (1220a) and a wiring formed in a second coil portion (1220b) may be electrically connected by two vias (V1, V3 and V2, V4) that are distinct from each other. In one embodiment, the wiring formed in the second coil portion (1220a) and the wiring formed in the second coil portion (1220b) can be connected in parallel to each other.

[0446] FIG. 36 illustrates an embodiment in which second coil sections (1220a, 1220b) arranged in different layers are electrically connected by two vias (V1, V3 and V2, V4). However, in other embodiments, second coil sections (1220a, 1220b) arranged in different layers may be electrically connected by three or more vias.

[0447] According to the above-described embodiment, there is an effect of reducing the resistance (or resistance value) of the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires formed in the second coil section. When the resistance of the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires is reduced, less power is consumed when container detection is performed using the sensing coils, thereby increasing the power efficiency of the coil module and the home appliance including the coil module.

[0448] Fig. 37 is a circuit diagram of a sensing circuit according to one embodiment. Fig. 38 is a diagram showing the waveform of a resonant signal output from an output node of a sensing circuit according to one embodiment. Fig. 39 is a diagram showing the waveform of a square wave output from a comparator of a sensing circuit according to one embodiment.

[0449] In one embodiment, the controller (500) can perform container detection using the sensing circuit illustrated in FIG. 37.

[0450] Referring to FIG. 37, a sensing circuit according to one embodiment may include a sensing coil (SC), a resonant capacitor (Cr2) connected in parallel with the sensing coil (SC), a switching element (SWt) connected to the sensing coil (SC) and the resonant capacitor (Cr2), and a comparator (360) that compares a resonant signal output from an output node (N) with a predetermined reference signal and outputs a square wave.

[0451] When the container detection starts, the controller (500) can turn on the switching element (SWt) for a predetermined charging time. Accordingly, the first power voltage (VR1) and the ground terminal are electrically connected, and voltage can be applied to the sensing coil (SC) and the resonant capacitor (Cr2).

[0452] When a predetermined charging time has elapsed, the controller (500) can turn off the switching element (SWt). Accordingly, a resonance phenomenon may occur due to the sensing coil (SC) and the resonance capacitor (Cr2).

[0453] When a resonance phenomenon occurs due to the sensing coil (SC) and the resonance capacitor (Cr2), a resonance signal can be output through the output node (N). Fig. 38 is a diagram showing the waveform of a resonance signal output from the output node of a sensing circuit according to one embodiment.

[0454] In one embodiment, the sensing circuit may further include a DC blocking unit (350) for removing a DC component from the resonant signal output from the output node (N). In another embodiment, the DC blocking unit (350) may be omitted.

[0455] The resonance signal output from the output node (N) can be input to the comparator (360). The comparator (360) can output a square wave by comparing the resonance signal with a reference signal defined by the second power voltage (VR2). Fig. 39 is a diagram showing the waveform of the square wave output from the comparator of the sensing circuit according to one embodiment.

[0456] More specifically, the comparator (360) can compare the voltage magnitude of the reference signal generated by the second power voltage (VR2) with the voltage magnitude of the resonance signal output from the output node (N), and output a square wave according to the comparison result. For example, if the voltage magnitude of the resonance signal output from the output node (N) is greater than or equal to the voltage magnitude of the reference signal, the comparator (CP) can output a signal having a voltage magnitude of a first level (e.g., 5 V), and if the voltage magnitude of the resonance signal is less than the voltage magnitude of the reference signal, the comparator (CP) can output a signal having a voltage magnitude of a second level (e.g., 0 V).

[0457] The controller (500) can count the number of waveforms of the square wave output from the comparator (360) and determine whether a container exists above the sensing coil (SC) based on the counted number of waveforms of the square wave.

[0458] When a container exists above the sensing coil (SC), the impedance of the sensing coil (SC) and the resonant capacitor (Cr2) remains relatively high compared to when the container does not exist. Therefore, the resonant signal can be attenuated for a relatively short time and then disappear. Conversely, when there is no container above the sensing coil (SC), the impedance of the sensing coil (SC) and the resonant capacitor (Cr2) remains relatively low compared to when the container exists. Therefore, the resonant signal can be attenuated for a relatively long time and then disappear.

[0459] Ultimately, the number of waveforms of the square wave output by the comparator (360) when there is no container above the sensing coil (SC) is greater than the number of waveforms of the square wave output by the comparator (360) when there is a container above the sensing coil (SC).

[0460] Accordingly, the controller (500) can determine that a container exists above the sensing coil (SC) if the number of counted square wave waveforms is less than or equal to a predetermined reference value. Conversely, the controller (500) can determine that a container does not exist above the sensing coil (SC) if the number of counted square wave waveforms exceeds a predetermined reference value. The reference value may be set differently depending on the embodiment.

[0461] In one embodiment, the controller (500) can sequentially perform container detection for each sensing coil (SC). Accordingly, while container detection is performed for one sensing coil (SC), the remaining sensing coils (SC) can be maintained in a discharged state.

[0462] The embodiments described with reference to the drawings so far are merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications or equivalent implementations of other embodiments are possible based on these embodiments. Furthermore, even if the effects of a configuration are not explicitly described when describing the embodiments, other effects that can be predicted by the configuration should also be acknowledged.

Claims

1. A plurality of sensing coils formed by a plurality of second coil sections stacked in the vertical direction; and Includes a plurality of wires electrically connecting the third terminal and each sensing coil, The width of each wire is set to be proportional to the length of each wire. Coil module.

2. In paragraph 1, The width of each wire is The ratio of the length of each wire to the length of the predetermined reference wire is set to the value multiplied by the width of the reference wire. Coil module.

3. In paragraph 1, The length or width of each wire is It is set differently depending on the distance between the third terminal and each sensing coil. Coil module.

4. In paragraph 1, The length or width of each wire is Proportional to the distance between the third terminal and each sensing coil Coil module.

5. In paragraph 1, A conductive coating layer covering at least a portion of the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires arranged on the outermost surface of the coil module; and Further comprising an insulating coating layer covering the remaining area excluding the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wirings on the outermost side of the coil module. Coil module.

6. In paragraph 5, The insulating coating layer is formed on the outermost surface of the coil module, and the conductive coating layer is formed after the insulating coating layer covering the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires is removed. Coil module.

7. In paragraph 1, Each second coil section formed on a different layer is electrically connected to each other by a number of electrically separated vias. Coil module.

8. In paragraph 7, Each second coil section formed on a different layer is connected in parallel by the above multiple vias. Coil module.

9. In paragraph 1, The above plurality of wires are arranged on the same layer as the sensing coil. Coil module.

10. In a home appliance including a coil module, The above coil module A plurality of working coils formed by a plurality of first coil sections stacked in a vertical direction; A plurality of sensing coils formed by a plurality of second coil sections stacked in a vertical direction; A plurality of first wiring batons electrically connecting the first terminal and each working coil; A plurality of second wiring batons electrically connecting the second terminal and each working coil; and Includes a plurality of third wiring patterns electrically connecting the third terminal and each sensing coil, The width of each wire included in each third wiring baton is set to be proportional to the length of each wire. Home appliances.

11. In paragraph 10, The width of each wire included in each third wiring baton is The ratio of the length of each wire to the length of the predetermined reference wire is set to the value multiplied by the width of the reference wire. Home appliances.

12. In paragraph 10, The length or width of each wire included in each third wiring baton is It is set differently depending on the distance between the third terminal and each sensing coil. Home appliances.

13. In paragraph 10, The length or width of each wire included in each third wiring baton is Proportional to the distance between the third terminal and each sensing coil Home appliances.

14. In paragraph 10, A conductive coating layer covering at least a portion of the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires arranged on the outermost surface of the coil module; and Further comprising an insulating coating layer covering the remaining area excluding the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wirings on the outermost side of the coil module. Home appliances.

15. In paragraph 14, The insulating coating layer is formed on the outermost surface of the coil module, and the conductive coating layer is formed after the insulating coating layer covering the plurality of sensing coils or the plurality of wires is removed. Home appliances.

16. In paragraph 10, Each second coil section formed on a different layer is electrically connected to each other by a number of vias. Home appliances.

17. In paragraph 16, Each second coil section formed on a different layer is connected in parallel by the above multiple vias. Home appliances.

18. In paragraph 10, Each wire included in each third wiring baton is placed on the same layer as the sensing coil. Home appliances.

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