Cooking appliance

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cooking appliance capable of significantly improving heating efficiency and power efficiency of heating units by displaying an optimal heating region capable of visually guiding a size and a seating position of a container suitable to be heated by each heating unit on the top surface of a top plate.

Description

Cooking appliances

[0001] The present invention relates to a cooking appliance, and more particularly, to a cooking appliance in which an optimal heating area is displayed on the upper surface of a top plate to visually guide the size and mounting position of a container suitable for heating by each heating unit, thereby significantly improving the heat generation efficiency and power efficiency of the heating unit.

[0002]

[0003] A cooking appliance is a type of home appliance for cooking food. It is installed in the kitchen and cooks food according to the user's intention.

[0004] These cooking appliances can be classified into various categories according to the heat source or type of fuel used.

[0005] Among these cooking appliances, a cooktop is used, which heats the food being cooked by placing it on top of a heat source placed underneath.

[0006] Depending on the type of heat source, cooktops can be classified into gas type heaters using gas combustion, radiant type heaters using electric heater heat generation, and induction type heaters using induction heating.

[0007] In particular, radiant type heaters and induction type heaters are preferred by users because they have a structure that prevents direct exposure to the heat source, have a superior appearance compared to gas type heaters, and do not generate combustion gases.

[0008] In this regard, U.S. Patent Publication No. 11,536,460 (Prior Document 001) discloses a cooking appliance having a radiant type heater.

[0009] The heater of the cooking appliance disclosed in prior art document 001 includes a heating coil provided as a resistance heating element and a container-shaped insulating material that accommodates the heating coil, and the heat generated from the heating coil is transferred to the top plate and then to the container, thereby enabling cooking of food stored in the container.

[0010]

[0011] A cooking appliance such as the type disclosed in the aforementioned prior art document 001 is configured such that a guideline having a diameter generally corresponding to the diameter of the heating element is printed or coated on the upper surface of the top plate, and the seating position of the container to be heated is guided by the guideline.

[0012] Meanwhile, a cooking appliance such as the type disclosed in prior art document 001 may be configured to have a plurality of heating elements each having different heat output and size, and the diameters of the guidelines may be formed to be different from each other in correspondence with the size of each heating element.

[0013] However, there is a problem in that it is difficult to effectively convey to the user information regarding the appropriate container size relative to the guidelines formed on the top plate for each heating section. In other words, it is difficult to clearly convey to the user whether a container whose size obscures the guideline below the container is suitable for the heating section, or a container whose size allows the guideline to be fully exposed and not obscured by the container is suitable for the heating section.

[0014] To elaborate on this, in the case of a container having a diameter size smaller than the diameter of the guideline, a portion of the top plate directly heated by the heating unit may be exposed to the outside without being covered by the container, and thus the heat output generated in the heating unit may be emitted to the outside through the exposed portion of the top plate, which may cause a problem in that power efficiency deteriorates.

[0015] Conversely, in the case of a container having a diameter size larger than the diameter of the guideline, only a part of the container is partially heated by the heating unit and the top plate, which may cause problems such as the heating time and cooking time being longer than expected and the heating efficiency of the heating unit being reduced.

[0016] The present invention has been devised to solve the problems of the prior art, and the first object of the present invention is to provide a cooking appliance that can significantly improve the heat generation efficiency and power efficiency of the heating unit by configuring the optimal heating area to be displayed on the upper surface of the top plate so as to visually guide the size and mounting position of a container suitable for heating by each heating unit.

[0017] In addition, the present invention has a second object of providing a cooking appliance that can significantly improve visibility to a user by defining a pair of guidelines that serve as inner and outer limits of an optimal heating area for a heating unit, and forming a pattern having a predetermined shape between the pair of guidelines or coating the entire portion between the pair of guidelines.

[0018] In addition, the third object of the present invention is to provide a cooking appliance that can further improve visibility for a user by configuring the optimal heating area of ​​the heating unit to be a predetermined light-emitting area.

[0019] The objectives of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above. Other objectives and advantages of the present invention not mentioned above can be understood through the following description and will be more clearly understood through the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent that the objectives and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims.

[0020]

[0021] A cooking appliance according to the present invention comprises: a heating unit; and a top plate that shields the heating unit from the upper side and on which a container for cooking is placed; wherein an optimal heating area is displayed on an upper surface of the top plate to visually guide the size and placement position of a container suitable for heating by the heating unit.

[0022] Additionally, an inner guide line, which becomes the inner boundary line of the optimal heating area, and an outer guide line, which becomes the outer boundary line of the optimal heating area, may be formed on the upper surface of the top plate.

[0023] In addition, the inner guide line may be formed to be entirely arranged within the area occupied by the heating unit when viewed from the upper side of the top plate.

[0024] Additionally, the outer guide line may be formed so as to be entirely placed outside the area occupied by the heating unit when viewed from the upper side of the top plate.

[0025] In addition, the heating unit includes a heating coil that generates heat by electric resistance; an insulating material that accommodates the heating coil inside; and a case that is coupled to the outer surface of the insulating material; and the inner guide line may be an arc having a radius smaller than the radius of the inner surface of the insulating material.

[0026] Additionally, the radius of the inner guide line may be 0.85 to 0.95 times the radius of the inner surface of the insulating material.

[0027] Additionally, the radius of the inner guide line may be 9.5 mm to 10.5 mm smaller than the radius of the inner surface of the insulating material.

[0028] In addition, the heating unit includes a heating coil that generates heat by electrical resistance; an insulating material that accommodates the heating coil therein; and a case that is coupled to the outer surface of the insulating material; and the outer guide line may be an arc having a radius greater than the radius of the case.

[0029] Additionally, the radius of the inner guide line may be 1.1 to 1.3 times the radius of the case.

[0030] Additionally, the radius of the inner guide line may be 27 mm to 33 mm larger than the radius of the case.

[0031] In addition, the upper surface of the top plate, which is defined between the inner guide line and the outer guide line, can be entirely coated with a predetermined coating material.

[0032] Additionally, the material forming the inner guide line and the outer guide line and the predetermined coating material may be the same material.

[0033] Additionally, a pattern having a predetermined shape may be coated between the inner guide line and the outer guide line on the upper surface of the top plate.

[0034] Additionally, the pattern having the above-described shape may include a hatching pattern.

[0035] Additionally, the hatching pattern may include diagonal hatching.

[0036] Additionally, the hatching pattern may include cross-hatching.

[0037] Additionally, the hatching pattern may include dot hatching.

[0038] In addition, an inner guide line, which becomes the inner boundary line of the optimal heating area, and a light-emitting area, which is positioned outside the inner guide line and forms the outer boundary of the optimal heating area, may be formed on the upper surface of the top plate.

[0039] In addition, the present invention further includes a light source module having a plurality of light source elements that irradiate visible light toward the light-emitting region, and a circuit board on which the plurality of light source elements are mounted; wherein the plurality of light source elements can be arranged in an arc shape having a radius larger than the radius of the inner guide line.

[0040] Additionally, the light source module can be placed around the heating unit in a state separated from the heating unit.

[0041]

[0042] The cooking appliance according to the present invention is configured to display an optimal heating area on the upper surface of the top plate to visually guide the size and mounting position of a container suitable for heating by each heating unit, thereby having the effect of significantly improving the heat generation efficiency and power efficiency of the heating unit.

[0043] In addition, the cooking appliance according to the present invention has the effect of significantly improving visibility to the user by being configured to be defined by a pair of guidelines that serve as inner and outer limits of an optimal heating area for a heating unit, and to form a pattern having a predetermined shape between the pair of guidelines or to coat the entire portion between the pair of guidelines.

[0044] In addition, the cooking appliance according to the present invention has the effect of further improving visibility to the user by configuring the optimal heating area for the heating unit to be a predetermined light-emitting area.

[0045] In addition to the effects described above, specific effects of the present invention are described below while explaining specific details for carrying out the invention.

[0046]

[0047] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the cooktop illustrated in Figure 1.

[0049] Figures 3 and 4 are perspective views and bottom views of the heating unit constituting the cooktop illustrated in Figure 2.

[0050] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the heating unit illustrated in Figure 3.

[0051] Figures 6 to 8 are plan views of a cooktop for explaining a state in which a container having an unsuitable size for each heating element is placed.

[0052] Figure 9 is a plan view of a cooktop of a cooking appliance according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figures 10 and 11 are vertical cross-sectional views of Figure 9, showing a state in which a suitable container mounting position on a heating unit is guided by an optimal heating area.

[0054] Figures 12 to 15 are partial enlarged views of Figure 9, showing a state in which a predetermined pattern or design is coated between the inner guide line and the outer guide line defining the optimal heating area to enable the optimal heating area to be visually recognized.

[0055] Fig. 16 is a plan view of a cooktop of a cooking appliance according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and is a drawing showing a configuration in which an optimal heating area is indicated by a light-emitting area.

[0056] FIGS. 17 and 18 are perspective views and exploded views of a cooktop of a cooking appliance according to the second embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 16.

[0057]

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0061] Hereinafter, the phrase "any configuration is placed on (or below)" a component or "on (or below)" a component may mean that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of said component, and that other configurations may be interposed between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0062] Additionally, when it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly connected or connected to one another, but that other components may also be "interposed" between the components, or that each component may be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" through another component.

[0063] As used herein, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "consisting of" or "comprising" should not necessarily be construed to include all of the components or steps described in the specification, and should be construed to mean that some of the components or steps may not be included, or that additional components or steps may be included.

[0064] Additionally, the singular expressions used herein include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "consist of" or "comprises" should not be construed to necessarily include all of the various components or various steps described in the specification, and should be construed to mean that some of the components or some of the steps may not be included, or that additional components or steps may be included.

[0065] 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.

[0066] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to drawings showing a configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] [Overall structure of the cooking appliance]

[0068] Hereinafter, the overall structure of a cooking appliance (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0069] FIG. 1 shows a front view of a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 1, a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a cooktop (20) and an oven section (10).

[0071] As shown, the cooktop (20) can be placed on the upper side of the oven section (10), and the oven section (10) can form the lower part of the cooking appliance (1).

[0072] Of course, the cooktop (20) and oven section (10) may each be provided as a separate cooking appliance (1), or may be installed as a built-in type in a cabinet such as a sink, or may be placed as a freestanding type.

[0073] The present invention is not limited thereto, but as an example, the structure of a composite cooking appliance in which a cooktop (20) is positioned on the upper side of an oven section (10) and integrated will be described in detail below.

[0074] The oven section (10) may include a main body (11) having a cavity with an open front, and a door (12) rotatably connected to the main body (11) to open and close the cavity.

[0075] The cavity forms a cooking space, and various types of heating sources, such as heaters or burners, are placed inside to heat the cooking space and cook food.

[0076] Meanwhile, a cooktop (20) disposed on the upper side of the oven section (10) can be configured such that a container (not shown) containing food for cooking can be placed on the top plate (23), and the container can be indirectly heated via the top plate (23) by the heating section (22) disposed on the lower side of the top plate (23). As described below, a guideline for defining an optimal heating area that visually guides the size of a container suitable for each heating section (22) and the placement position of the container can be formed on the upper surface of the top plate (23) by coating or printing. Detailed configurations regarding the optimal heating area and the guideline will be described below with reference to FIG. 6 and below.

[0077] Additionally, the cooking appliance (1) may further include an operating unit (30).

[0078] As illustrated, the operating unit (30) may be composed of a plurality of knobs (31) and may control the operation of the oven unit (10) and the cooktop (20).

[0079] Additionally, the operating unit (30) may be configured as a button, switch or touch operating device as needed.

[0080] The operating unit (30) may be placed in front of the cooktop (20) as shown or in front of the oven unit (10).

[0081] Additionally, a display (32) that visually displays the operating status of the cooking appliance (1) may be provided close to the operating unit (30).

[0082] Below, the detailed structure of the cooktop (20) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5.

[0083] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a cooktop (20) provided in a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] As shown, the cooktop (20) may be configured to include a top plate (23) on which a container is mounted on the upper surface, a heating element (22) disposed on the lower side of the top plate (23), and a base plate (21) that supports the heating element (22) and the top plate (23).

[0085] The base plate (21) can be formed to have an overall rectangular shape, and can function as a frame that forms the overall structure of the cooktop (20) and supports the heating unit (22) and the top plate (23).

[0086] As shown, the base plate (21) can provide a structure on which a heating unit (22) and a top plate (23) can be mounted.

[0087] To this end, the base plate (21) can be formed by processing a metal plate so that it has a predetermined rigidity and the influence of heat generated from the heating unit (22) can be minimized.

[0088] In the case of a type in which the cooktop (20) is installed independently, the base plate (21) may form the exterior of the remaining portion of the cooktop (20) except for the upper surface. In this case, the base plate (21) may be referred to as a case because it may form the exterior of the cooktop (20).

[0089] A mounting hole (212) for mounting a heating unit (22) may be formed vertically through the base plate (21). The heating unit (22) may be placed on the base plate (21) in such a way that it passes through the mounting hole (212) and is partially inserted into the mounting hole (212).

[0090] At this time, in order to minimize the heat generated from the heating unit (22) from being transferred to the base plate (21) and to enable the heating unit (22) to be elastically supported, the heating unit (22) may be connected to the mounting hole (212) via a plurality of springs (24). Although Fig. 2 illustrates a configuration in which the heating unit (22) is elastically supported via a pair of springs (24), this is merely exemplary, and the number of springs (24) provided may be adjusted differently depending on the size or weight of the heating unit (22).

[0091] As described later, a plurality of fastening holes (2212h) may be formed on the bottom surface (2212) of the case (221) of the heating unit (22) so that each spring (24) can be fixed.

[0092] A cooktop (20) may be equipped with a plurality of heating elements (22). In this case, when a plurality of heating elements (22) are equipped, a plurality of mounting holes (212) may be formed through the base plate (21) corresponding to the number of heating elements (22).

[0093] Meanwhile, a top plate (23) can be mounted on the base plate (21).

[0094] The top plate (23) forms the upper surface of the cooktop (20), and the open upper surface of the heating element (22) can be shielded by the top plate (23) when mounted on the base plate (21).

[0095] For mounting the top plate (23), a mounting portion (211) that is formed to be sunken in a downward direction may be formed on the base plate (21). The mounting portion (211) may be sunken in a size corresponding to that of the top plate (23).

[0096] Additionally, the recessed depth of the mounting portion (211) may correspond to the thickness of the top plate (23). At this time, as illustrated, a plurality of mounting holes (212) may be located in the inner region of the mounting portion (211).

[0097] Meanwhile, FIGS. 3 to 5 illustrate the detailed configuration of individual heating elements (22) constituting the cooktop (20).

[0098] As described above, the heating element (22) can be elastically fixed and mounted to the base plate (21) via a spring (24) in such a way that it passes through the mounting hole (212) and is partially inserted into the mounting hole (212).

[0099] The heating unit (22) has the function of directly or indirectly heating a container placed on the upper surface of the top plate (23), and can be configured in various ways depending on the type of heat source. Therefore, the heating unit (22) may also be referred to as a heater unit or a burner unit.

[0100] The heating unit (22) may be composed of at least one of a sealed type heater, a radiant type heater, or an induction type heater, depending on the heat source.

[0101] FIGS. 3 to 5 illustrate the configuration of a heating unit (22) configured as a radiant type heater. Hereinafter, the configuration of the heating unit (22) configured as a radiant type heater as illustrated will be described based on the configuration thereof.

[0102] The heating unit (22) may be configured to include a heating coil (223) that generates heat when power is supplied, an insulating material (222, 226) on which the heating coil (223) is mounted, and a case (221) that is bonded to the outer surface of the insulating material (222, 226) to protect the insulating material (222, 226) and the heating coil (223).

[0103] The heating coil (223) is heated by power supply and performs the function of generating high-temperature heat.

[0104] At this time, the heat generated from the heating coil (223) can pass through the top plate (23) and be transferred to the container by radiation or conduction to heat the container.

[0105] The heating coil (223) is configured to generate heat by electrical resistance, and can be formed by winding multiple times so that the inner diameters have different circular shapes.

[0106] More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the heating coil (223) is not formed in a perfect circle, but may have an overall circular shape.

[0107] In order to maximize the heat generation by maximizing the surface area, the heating coil (223) may have a repeatedly bent shape.

[0108] For example, the heating coil (223) may be repeatedly bent in a zigzag shape when viewed from above and may be extended to have an overall circular ring shape.

[0109] Additionally, in order to maximize the heat generation, the heating coil (223) may be arranged in a concentric manner with circular ring shapes of different diameters.

[0110] Meanwhile, the heating coil (223) can be configured to be divided into an internal coil (224) and an external coil (225). Accordingly, the heat output for heating the container can be controlled and provided according to the combination of the on / off operations of the internal coil (224) and the external coil (225).

[0111] The heating coil (223) can be supported and fixed by the insulating pad (222) in a state where it is placed on the upper surface of the insulating pad (222) constituting the insulating material (222, 223).

[0112] More specifically, the insulation (222, 226) may include an insulation pad (222) configured in a disc shape as illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0113] The insulation pad (222) can be placed inside the case (221) in a state where it is entirely accommodated inside the case (221) described later.

[0114] When power is supplied to the heating coil (223), the surface temperature of the heating coil (223) can rise to a maximum of about 2000°C.

[0115] The insulating pad (222) can be formed of a non-flammable insulating material suitable for the high temperature environment formed by the heating coil (223).

[0116] In this way, as the heating coil (223) is placed on the upper surface of the insulating pad (222) made of a non-combustible insulating material, heat transfer in the downward direction when the heating coil (223) generates heat can be minimized. In addition, the heating coil (223) can be placed on the upper surface of the insulating pad (222).

[0117] Meanwhile, the insulation material (222, 226) may further include an insulation ring (226) formed in a circular ring shape as illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0118] As with the insulation pad (222), the insulation ring (226) may be formed of a non-combustible insulation material to be suitable for the high temperature environment formed by the heating coil (223).

[0119] At this time, the insulating ring (226) may be arranged along the outer edge of the insulating pad (222) and may be positioned to be coupled to the outer edge of the insulating pad (222).

[0120] Accordingly, as the insulation ring (226) is coupled to the insulation pad (222), a receiving space (S) in which the heating coil (223) can be entirely received can be formed on the radially inner side of the insulation ring (226) and the upper side of the insulation pad (222).

[0121] Meanwhile, the upper end of the insulation ring (226) can be placed so as to be in surface contact with the lower surface of the top plate (23).

[0122] At this time, the upper end of the insulation ring (226) can be maintained in elastic contact with the lower surface of the top plate (23) by the pressure of the spring (24) described above.

[0123] Accordingly, the space between the insulating ring (226) and the top plate (23) can be effectively sealed by the spring (24), so that the heat inside the heating part (22) can be minimized from being released to the outside of the heating part (22) by convection.

[0124] Meanwhile, the case (221) is coupled to the outside of the insulation (222, 226) and serves to protect the insulation (222, 226) and the heating coil (223).

[0125] In order to accommodate and protect the insulation pad (222) and the insulation ring (226) inside, the case (221) can be formed into a cylindrical shape with an open upper surface.

[0126] In this way, the case (221) can be formed by pressing a plate having a predetermined metal material to effectively protect the insulation pad (222) and insulation ring (226) that are relatively weak in rigidity, while being suitable for a high-temperature environment.

[0127] As it is provided with an overall cylindrical shape, the case (221) can be configured to include a bottom surface portion (2212) in the shape of a disc and a cylindrical surface portion (2211) in the shape of a cylinder extending upward along the outer edge of the bottom surface portion (2212).

[0128] The cylindrical surface (2211) of the case (221) may be provided in a cylindrical shape corresponding to the shape of the outer surface of the insulating pad (222) and the outer surface (2262) of the insulating ring (226).

[0129] At this time, the outer surface of the insulation pad (222) is completely covered by the cylindrical surface (2211), but the outer surface (2262) of the insulation ring (226) may be partially covered.

[0130] That is, as described above, so that the insulation ring (226) can be in surface contact with the lower surface of the top plate (23), the upper end of the cylindrical surface portion (2211) can be formed at a position lower in the vertical direction than the upper end of the insulation ring (226).

[0131] Accordingly, the insulation ring (226) may be exposed to the outside at a portion corresponding to the upper surface of the insulation ring (226) and the upper surface of the cylindrical surface (2211) in the vertical direction.

[0132] The bottom surface (2212) of the case (221) may include a first bottom surface (2212a) connected to the lower edge of the cylindrical surface (2211), and a second bottom surface (2212b) positioned radially inward from the first bottom surface (2212a).

[0133] As shown, the second bottom surface (2212b) can be formed concavely toward the downward direction so as to be formed at a lower position in the vertical direction than the second bottom surface (2212b).

[0134] The horizontal width of the first bottom surface (2212a) may correspond to the horizontal thickness of the aforementioned insulation ring (226), and the area of ​​the second bottom surface (2212b) may correspond to the area occupied by the heating coil (223).

[0135] In this way, by forming the second bottom surface (2212b) having an area corresponding to the area occupied by the heating coil (223) in a concave downward direction, the vertical height of the receiving space (S) in which the heating coil (223) is installed can be expanded, and as described later, a free space can be secured to allow the thermostat (2271) to be installed.

[0136] Meanwhile, a fastening hole (2212h) may be formed on the first bottom surface (2212a) to fasten the aforementioned spring (24).

[0137] One end of the spring (24) can be fastened to the fastening hole (2212h) of the first bottom surface (2212a) through a fastening means not shown, such as a screw bolt.

[0138] However, as described above, the number of springs (24) provided may be set differently depending on the size or weight of the heating unit (22).

[0139] In order to secure the diversity and tolerance of the design that can be set differently according to the shape and weight of the heating part (22), a plurality of fastening holes (2212h) can be formed to be arranged along the circumferential direction on the first bottom surface (2212a), and the circumferential spacing between each fastening hole (2212h) can be set in various ways.

[0140] Meanwhile, the heating unit (22) may further include an overheating prevention device (227) placed on the outside of the case (221).

[0141] More specifically, as illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5, the overheating prevention device (227) may include a thermostat (2271) extending from the outside of the case (221) toward the internal receiving space (S) of the insulation (222, 226), and a housing (2272) disposed on the outside of the case (221).

[0142] As shown, the thermostat (2271) may be provided in a rod shape, and one end of the rod shape may be placed inside the housing (2272) and the other end of the rod shape may be placed on the central side of the internal receiving space (S).

[0143] That is, the thermostat (2271) can be extended from the upper side of the heating coil (223) to cross the heating coil (223) and detects whether the receiving space (S) in which the heating coil (223) is placed is overheated.

[0144] Although not shown, inside the housing (2272) there is a pair of terminals (2273) that supply power to the heating coil (223) and a switch that makes and breaks an electrical connection between the power supply.

[0145] Accordingly, when overheating or overload occurs in the heating coil (223) or the receiving space (S) and the temperature rises above a predetermined set temperature, the switch placed inside the housing (2272) is opened by the thermostat (2271), and the power supply to the heating coil (223) is immediately cut off.

[0146] Any means known in the art can be applied to the detailed configuration of the overheating prevention device (227), so a description of the detailed configuration is omitted below.

[0147] [First embodiment regarding display of optimal heating area]

[0148] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 6 and below, a detailed configuration of an optimal heating area provided in a cooktop (20) of a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0149] First, in FIGS. 6 to 9, a configuration is described in which the mounting position of the container is guided through a guideline (233) formed on the upper surface (231) of a conventional top plate (23).

[0150] As shown in Fig. 6, in general, when a cooktop (20) is equipped with multiple heating elements (22), the multiple heating elements (22) may be configured to have different heat outputs and sizes for the convenience of the user.

[0151] Accordingly, the plurality of heating units (22) may include a high-power heating unit having a relatively large output and a large size, a medium-power heating unit having a relatively medium output and a medium output, and a low-power heating unit having a relatively small output and a small size.

[0152] A plurality of guidelines (233) may be formed on the cooktop (20) to guide the container mounting position and the appropriate container size for the high-power heating unit, medium-power heating unit, and low-power heating unit.

[0153] These guidelines (233) may be formed to have relatively different sizes in accordance with the sizes of the high-power heating section, the medium-power heating section, and the low-power heating section. These guidelines (233) may be referred to as guidelines for large containers (233a), medium-power containers (233b), and small containers (233c), in order of size.

[0154] At this time, each guideline (233) may be displayed on the upper surface (231) of the top plate (23) as an arc that is a circle or a part of a circle having a radius corresponding to the size of the corresponding heating part (22).

[0155] More specifically, each guideline (233) may be a circle or an arc having a radius approximately equal to the radius of the inner surface (2261) of the insulating ring (226) of the corresponding heating element (22) or the radius of the outer surface of the case (221).

[0156] In addition, as shown, the conventional cooktop (20) is configured so that only one guideline (233) is assigned to each heating section (22) and is displayed in a printed or coated manner on the upper surface (231) of the top plate (23).

[0157] Therefore, a situation may arise where it is difficult to smoothly guide the size and mounting position of the container for the corresponding heating unit (22) using only a single guideline (233).

[0158] That is, since the size and mounting position of the container cannot be smoothly guided as shown in Fig. 7, a situation may arise where the user starts the operation of the high-power heating unit by mounting a small container (PS) on the top plate (23) along the guideline (233a) for a large container corresponding to the high-power heating unit.

[0159] In this case, since the radius of the small container (PS) is formed to be much smaller than the radius of the guideline (233a) for the large container, the small container (PS) can be settled entirely within the inner area of ​​the guideline (233a) for the large container.

[0160] Accordingly, the internal area of ​​the guideline (233a) for the large container that is not covered by the small container (PS) may be exposed to the outside. As such, the internal area of ​​the guideline (233a) for the large container that is not covered by the small container (PS) occupies a significantly high proportion of the entire internal area, as shown.

[0161] A significant amount of the heat output generated from the high-power heating element is inevitably released to the outside through the exposed portion, which inevitably leads to a deterioration in power efficiency.

[0162] In addition, as shown in Fig. 8, since the size and mounting position of the container cannot be smoothly guided, a situation may arise where the user starts the operation of the high-power heating unit while mounting a large container (PL) on the low-power heating unit.

[0163] In such a case, since the radius of the large container (PL) is much larger than the radius of the guideline (233c) for the small container, the large container (PL) ends up settling at a location outside the inner area of ​​the guideline (233c) for the small container.

[0164] Therefore, since only a part of the large container (PL) is partially heated by the low-power heating unit and the top plate (23), the heating time and cooking time for the large container (PL) may increase more than the user expects, which inevitably leads to a decrease in the heating efficiency of the low-power heating unit.

[0165] The purpose of the present invention is to prevent deterioration of power efficiency and reduction of heating efficiency that may occur when a container that is not suitable for the heat output and size of the heating unit (22) is placed on the top plate (23).

[0166] To this end, the cooktop (20) of the cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be configured to have an optimal heating area (236) displayed on the upper surface (231) of the top plate (23) to visually guide the size and mounting position of a container suitable for heating by each heating unit (22).

[0167] FIGS. 9 to 15 illustrate a configuration in which an optimal heating area (236) is displayed on the upper surface (231) of the top plate (23) according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0168] First, Fig. 9 illustrates a cooktop (20) having a plurality of heating elements (22) similar to a conventional one, and each heating element (22) can be configured to have a different heat output for the convenience of the user.

[0169] The present invention is not limited thereto, but as illustrated by way of example, it will be described based on a configuration including a high-power heating unit (22a) having a relatively large output and a large size, a medium-power heating unit (22b) having a relatively medium output and a medium output, and a low-power heating unit (22c) having a relatively small output and a small size.

[0170] As illustrated, the upper surface (231) of the top plate (23) is sized to correspond to heating elements (22) having different heat outputs and sizes, and an optimal heating area (236) can be displayed to guide the size and mounting position of a container suitable for heating by each heating element (22).

[0171] At this time, the optimal heating area (236) may be provided in a ring shape that is approximately concentric with the central axis (Xc) of the heating unit (22) and has a predetermined radial width corresponding to the shape of each heating unit (22).

[0172] As a means for defining an optimal heating area (236) of a ring shape like this, an inner guide line (234) and an outer guide line (235) can be formed on the upper surface (231) of the top plate (23) by coating or printing.

[0173] The inner guide line (234) may be a circle or arc line that has a relatively smaller radius (D1) and is concentric with the central axis (Xc) of the heating unit (22), and may be sized to have a smaller radius than the radius of the corresponding heating unit (22), as described below.

[0174] In addition, the outer guide line (235) may be a circle or arc line that has a relatively larger radius (D1) than the inner guide line (234) and is concentric with the central axis (Xc) of the heating unit (22), and as described below, the size may be determined to have a larger radius (D1) than the radius of the corresponding heating unit (22).

[0175] The radius or size of the inner guide line (234) and outer guide line (235), which are determined relatively to the radius and size of the heating part (22), will be described later with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0176] The inner guide line (234) and the outer guide line (235) can be configured to have a width of approximately less than 5 mm, similar to the conventional guide line (233), and can be formed by coating or printing a material having a bright color, preferably a white color, on the upper surface (231) of the top plate (23) to increase user visibility.

[0177] These inner guide lines (234) and outer guide lines (235) can be arranged to be approximately concentric with the central axis (Xc) of the corresponding heating part (22), and through this, an optimal heating area (236) in the shape of a ring having a predetermined radial width can be formed between the inner guide lines (234) and outer guide lines (235).

[0178] That is, the inner guide line (234) and the outer guide line (235) function as the inner boundary line and the outer boundary line, respectively, defining the optimal heating area (236).

[0179] As illustrated, when a plurality of heating units (22) having different heat outputs and sizes are provided, the size of the optimal heating area (236) allocated to each heating unit (22) can be set to match the size of the corresponding heating unit (22).

[0180] Accordingly, as illustrated, the inner guide line (234a) for a large container and the outer guide line (235) for a large container allocated to the high-power heating section can be formed to have a relatively larger radius, and accordingly, the radius of the optimal heating area (236) formed between the inner guide line (234a) for a large container and the outer guide line (235) for a large container can be set to be relatively large.

[0181] In addition, the inner guide line (234b) for the medium-sized container and the outer guide line (235) for the medium-sized container allocated to the medium-power heating section can be formed to have a relatively smaller radius, and accordingly, the radius of the optimal heating area (236) formed between the inner guide line (234b) for the medium-sized container and the outer guide line (235) for the mold container can be set to be relatively smaller.

[0182] In addition, the inner guide line (234c) for small containers and the outer guide line (235) for small containers allocated to the low-power heating section can be formed to have a relatively smallest radius, and accordingly, the radius of the optimal heating area (236) formed between the inner guide line (234c) for small containers and the outer guide line (235) for small containers can be set to be relatively smallest.

[0183] In this way, since the size of the optimal heating area (236) assigned to each heating unit (22) is set differently depending on the size of the heating unit (22), the user can intuitively select a heating unit (22) suitable for the size of the container (P) to be used.

[0184] In more detail, as described later, when a container (P) to be used is placed concentrically with an optimal heating area (236) randomly selected from among several optimal heating areas (236), and a state is formed in which the optimal heating area (236) is partially covered by the container (P), it can be intuitively determined that the corresponding heating unit (22) is a suitable heating unit (22) for the container (P) to be used.

[0185] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11 below, the criteria for determining the radial width of the optimal heating area (236) relative to the size of the heating unit (22) will be explained.

[0186] Figures 10 and 11 illustrate a cross-section of one of the high-power heating unit (22a), the medium-power heating unit (22b), and the low-power heating unit (22c) that constitute the aforementioned heating unit (22).

[0187] In the following, the description will be made based on one of the high-power heating unit (22a), the medium-power heating unit (22b), and the low-power heating unit (22c) as an example, and the contents described can be equally applied to each of the high-power heating unit (22a), the medium-power heating unit (22b), and the low-power heating unit (22c).

[0188] As described above, the radial width of the optimal heating area (236) can be determined through the inner guide line (234) acting as the inner boundary line and the outer guide line (235) acting as the outer boundary line.

[0189] At this time, the position and radius of the inner guide line (234) and the outer guide line (235) can be relatively determined according to the size of the heating part (22).

[0190] First, referring to FIG. 10, as described above, the inner guide line (234) is arranged to be approximately concentric with the central axis (Xc) of the heating unit (22), but the radius (D1) of the inner guide line (234) can be determined in a relative size to have a smaller dimension than the outer diameter of the heating unit (22).

[0191] Therefore, when viewed from the upper side of the top plate (23), the inner guide line (234) is entirely arranged inside the area occupied by the heating unit (22).

[0192] To explain this more specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the inner guide line (234) can be arranged entirely within the area occupied by the heating unit (22), so that the radius (D1) of the inner guide line (234) can be set to be smaller than the radius (D4) of the inner circumferential surface (2261) of the insulating ring (226) constituting the heating unit (22).

[0193] At this time, if the radius (D1) of the inner guide line (234) is set too small compared to the radius (D4) of the inner surface (2261) of the insulating ring (226), the portion of the area occupied by the heating part (22) that is not covered by the container (P) may be formed too large.

[0194] In this case, there is a concern that a large amount of heat will be emitted to the outside without being covered by the container (P), which may increase power loss.

[0195] To prevent such an increase in power loss, the radius (D1) of the inner guide line (234) may be sized to be 0.85 to 0.95 times the radius (D4) of the inner surface (2261) of the insulating ring (226).

[0196] Alternatively, in another way, the radius (D1) of the inner guide line (234) may be set to a size 9.5 mm to 10.5 mm smaller than the radius (D4) of the inner surface (2261) of the insulating ring (226).

[0197] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 11, as described above, the outer guide line (235) is arranged to be approximately concentric with the central axis (Xc) of the heating unit (22), but the radius (D2) of the outer guide line (235) can be determined in a relative size to have a larger dimension than the outer diameter of the heating unit (22).

[0198] Therefore, when viewed from the upper side of the top plate (23), the outer guide line (235) is placed entirely outside the area occupied by the heating unit (22).

[0199] To explain this more specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 11, the outer guide line (235) can be arranged entirely outside the area occupied by the heating unit (22), and the size of the radius (D2) of the outer guide line (235) can be set to be larger than the radius (D3) of the case (221) constituting the heating unit (22).

[0200] At this time, if the radius (D2) of the outer guide line (235) is set to be excessively larger than the radius (D3) of the case (221), a portion that is not directly heated by the radiant heat of the heating unit (22) may be formed to be excessively large.

[0201] In this case, if the portion that is not directly heated by the heating unit (22) is formed too large, there is a high possibility that the heating time and cooking time will increase excessively contrary to the user's intention, which may result in a deterioration in heating efficiency.

[0202] To prevent such deterioration of heating efficiency, the radius (D2) of the outer guide line (235) may be set to be 1.1 to 1.3 times the radius (D3) of the case (221).

[0203] Alternatively, the radius (D2) of the outer guideline (235) may be sized 27 mm to 33 mm larger than the radius (D3) of the case (221).

[0204] According to such criteria, an inner guide line (234) and an outer guide line (235) whose relative position and size are determined according to each heating unit (22) can be set, and the area between the inner guide line (234) and the outer guide line (235) can be set as an optimal heating area (236) for the corresponding heating unit (22).

[0205] At this time, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the user places the container (P) desired to be used so as to be concentric with an optimal heating area (236) randomly selected from among several optimal heating areas (236), and when a state is formed in which the optimal heating area (236) is at least partially covered by the container (P), the user can intuitively determine that the corresponding heating unit (22) is a suitable heating unit (22) for the container (P) desired to be used.

[0206] However, in the case where the optimal heating area (236) for the heating unit (22) is set simply by the inner guideline (234) and outer guideline (235), it cannot be ruled out that there is a possibility that information about the optimal heating area (236) may not be easily recognized and acknowledged by the user.

[0207] In order to increase visibility to the user, although not shown, letters or text indicating that the area set by the inner guideline (234) and the outer guideline (235) is the optimal heating area (236) for the heating unit (22) may be displayed by coating or printing on the top plate (23).

[0208] More specifically, text or characters containing information limiting the maximum size of the container (P), such as “Please use a container that does not obscure the outer line,” may be displayed on the inner and outer sides of the outer guideline (235).

[0209] Additionally, characters or text containing information limiting the minimum size of the container (P), such as “Please use a container that can cover the inner line,” may be displayed on the inner and outer sides of the inner guideline (234).

[0210] In addition to the configuration of displaying letters and text on the inside and outside of the inner guideline (234) and the outer guideline (235), a means for increasing visibility of the optimal heating area (236) may be formed inside the optimal heating area (236).

[0211] Figures 12 to 15 illustrate configurations in which means for increasing visibility of the optimal heating area (236) are formed inside the optimal heating area (236).

[0212] First, referring to Fig. 12, a coating material may be coated or printed on the upper surface (231) of the top plate (23) in a portion corresponding to the optimal heating area (236) defined between the inner guide line (234) and the outer guide line (235) so as to cover the entire optimal heating area (236).

[0213] At this time, the material coated or printed to cover the entire optimal heating area (236) as shown may be the same material as the material forming the inner guide line (234) and the outer guide line (235).

[0214] In addition, as with the inner guideline (234) and the outer guideline (235), a material of a bright color series may be applied to improve the user's visibility, and a material of the same color or a different color from the inner guideline (234) and the outer guideline (235) may be applied.

[0215] Accordingly, when a material of the same color as the inner guide line (234) and the outer guide line (235) is applied, the area between the inner guide line (234) and the outer guide line (235) is entirely filled with the material of the same color, so that the inner guide line (234) and the outer guide line (235) are connected to each other to form a single circle or arc line having a width corresponding to the radial width of the optimal heating area (236).

[0216] In addition, as shown in FIGS. 13 to 15, a pattern or design having a predetermined shape may be coated or printed on a portion corresponding to the optimal heating area (236) defined between the inner guide line (234) and the outer guide line (235) as the upper surface (231) of the top plate (23).

[0217] Although not limited thereto, the pattern or design having a predetermined shape may be diagonal hatching or cross hatching as illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, or dot hatching as illustrated in FIG. 15.

[0218] At this time, the material forming the pattern or design in the optimal heating area (236) as shown may be the same material as the material forming the inner guide line (234) and the outer guide line (235).

[0219] In addition, similar to the inner guideline (234) and the outer guideline (235), in order to improve the user's visibility, the pattern or design may be applied using a material of a light color series, and the same color or a different color as the inner guideline (234) and the outer guideline (235) may be applied.

[0220] As a pattern or design having a predetermined shape is formed inside the optimal heating area (236) in this way, the inside and outside of the optimal heating area (236) can be clearly distinguished, thereby improving the user's visibility of the optimal heating area (236).

[0221] In addition, since the interior of the optimal heating area (236) is partially filled with a pattern or design, a smaller amount of coating material can be used compared to a configuration in which the interior of the optimal heating area (236) is entirely coated, which can have the effect of reducing material costs.

[0222] [Second embodiment regarding display of optimal heating area]

[0223] Figures 16 to 18 illustrate a configuration in which an optimal heating area (236) is displayed on the upper surface (231) of the top plate (23) according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0224] First, referring to FIG. 16, unlike the first embodiment described above, a light-emitting area (237) indicating an optimal heating area (236) can be formed on the top plate (23) of the cooktop (20) according to the second embodiment.

[0225] At this time, in order to define the inner and outer boundaries of the optimal heating area (236) as in the above-described embodiments, the inner guide line (234) and the outer guide line (235) may be displayed together, or only the inner guide line (234) may be displayed as shown in FIG. 16.

[0226] The present invention is not limited thereto, but will be described below based on a configuration in which the outer guide line (235) acting as the outer boundary line of the optimal heating area (236) is omitted as illustrated.

[0227] In this case, when the outer guideline (235) is omitted, the light-emitting area (237) can form the outer boundary of the optimal heating area (236).

[0228] As illustrated in Fig. 16, the light-emitting area (237) can be formed through a light source module (26) including a plurality of light source elements (261) that function as point lights.

[0229] As described below, a plurality of light source elements (261) can be arranged to irradiate visible light toward the lower surface (232) of the top plate (23) below the top plate (23), and visible light incident through the lower surface (232) can be irradiated upward through the upper surface (231) of the top plate (23) to form a light-emitting region (237).

[0230] In order to specify an optimal heating area (236) configured in a ring shape similar to the first embodiment, the light source elements (261) may be arranged in a circular or arc shape with a larger radius than the inner guide line (234) along the inner guide line (234) on the radially outer side of the inner guide line (234).

[0231] In Fig. 16, a configuration is illustrated in which light-emitting areas (237) are arranged along the inner guide line (234) in a form that is separated from each other, but the present invention may be configured in a way that light-emitting areas (237) are formed continuously in a ring shape along the inner guide line (234).

[0232] The light-emitting region (237) formed in a ring shape in this way can be formed through a process in which the visible light regions projected by each light source element (261) overlap each other by configuring the light source elements (261) to be arranged more densely than in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 16.

[0233] Alternatively, a light emitting area (237) formed in a ring shape can be formed by placing a light guide plate that serves to diffuse visible light between a plurality of light source elements (261) and the top plate (23).

[0234] Figures 17 and 18 illustrate the detailed configuration of a light source module (26) forming such a light-emitting area (237).

[0235] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, the light source module (26) may be configured to include at least one light source element (261) that receives power and generates visible light, and a circuit board (262) on which at least one light source element (261) is mounted.

[0236] The light source element (261) generates visible light or light when the heating unit (22) is in operation or before the operation is initiated, thereby generating a light-emitting area (237) that indicates the optimal heating area (236) of the heating unit (22).

[0237] The light source element (261) can be applied without limitation as long as it is a means that can receive power and generate a predetermined amount of visible light, and can be an LED element as an example.

[0238] The present invention is not limited thereto, but will be described below based on an embodiment in which an LED element is applied as a light source element (261).

[0239] As described above, a plurality of light source elements (261) can be arranged in a circular or arc shape under the top plate (23) so as to create a light-emitting area (237) arranged in a circular or arc shape.

[0240] However, in order to prevent heat from being transferred from the heating unit (22) and the top plate (23) during operation of the heating unit (22), a plurality of light source elements (261) may be arranged in a state separated from the top plate (23) and the heating unit (22).

[0241] The circuit board (262) has a plurality of light source elements (261) mounted on it and serves to support a plurality of light source elements (261).

[0242] In order to prevent contact and interference with the arrangement of a plurality of light source elements (261) arranged in a circular or arc shape and the heating unit (22), the circuit board (262) may be formed in a ring shape or C-shape with a radius greater than the radius (D3) of the case (221) of the heating unit (22).

[0243] That is, in order to minimize the influence of heat generated from the heating unit (22), a plurality of light source elements (261) and a circuit board (262) can be placed on the outside of the heating unit (22) in a state separated from the heating unit (22).

[0244] Meanwhile, although not shown, as described above, the light source module (26) may be configured to further include a light guide plate that is arranged between a plurality of light source elements (261) and the top plate (23) and diffuses visible light generated from the light source elements (261).

[0245] In case a light guide plate is further included, the light guide plate needs to be positioned separately from the heating unit (22) and the top plate (23) to minimize the influence of heat, as with a number of light source elements (261).

[0246] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the drawings exemplified above, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed herein, and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention. Furthermore, even if the operational effects according to the configuration of the present invention have not been explicitly described while describing the embodiments of the present invention, it is natural that the effects predictable by the corresponding configuration should also be acknowledged.

Claims

1. Heating section; and A top plate that shields the heating element from the upper side and on which a container for cooking is placed; Including, A cooking appliance in which an optimal heating zone is displayed on the upper surface of the top plate to visually guide the size and mounting position of a container suitable for heating by the heating unit.

2. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance in which an inner guide line, which becomes the inner boundary line of the optimal heating zone, and an outer guide line, which becomes the outer boundary line of the optimal heating zone, are formed on the upper surface of the top plate.

3. In paragraph 2, A cooking appliance in which the inner guide line is formed so as to be entirely arranged within the area occupied by the heating unit when viewed from the upper side of the top plate.

4. In paragraph 2, A cooking appliance in which the above outer guide line is formed so as to be entirely placed outside the area occupied by the heating unit when viewed from the upper side of the top plate.

5. In paragraph 2, The above heating part, A heating coil that generates heat by electrical resistance; Insulating material housing said heating coil inside; and A case bonded to the outer surface of the above insulation; Including, A cooking appliance in which the inner guide line is an arc having a radius smaller than the radius of the inner surface of the insulating material.

6. In paragraph 5, A cooking appliance in which the radius of the inner guide line is 0.85 to 0.95 times the radius of the inner surface of the insulating material.

7. In paragraph 5, A cooking appliance wherein the radius of the inner guide line is 9.5 mm to 10.5 mm smaller than the radius of the inner surface of the insulation material.

8. In paragraph 2, The above heating part, A heating coil that generates heat by electrical resistance; Insulating material housing said heating coil inside; and A case bonded to the outer surface of the above insulation; Including, A cooking appliance in which the above outer guide line is an arc having a radius larger than the radius of the case.

9. In paragraph 8, A cooking appliance in which the radius of the inner guide line is 1.1 to 1.3 times the radius of the case.

10. In paragraph 8, A cooking appliance wherein the radius of the inner guide line is 27 mm to 33 mm larger than the radius of the case.

11. In paragraph 2, A cooking appliance in which the upper surface of the top plate, the portion defined between the inner guide line and the outer guide line, is entirely coated with a predetermined coating material.

12. In paragraph 11, A cooking appliance in which the material forming the inner guide line and the outer guide line and the predetermined coating material are the same material.

13. In paragraph 2, A cooking appliance in which a pattern having a predetermined shape is coated on the upper surface of the top plate between the inner guide line and the outer guide line.

14. In paragraph 13, A cooking appliance having a pattern having the above-mentioned predetermined shape, including a hatching pattern.

15. In paragraph 14, The above hatching pattern is a cooking appliance including diagonal hatching.

16. In paragraph 14, The above hatching pattern is a cooking appliance including cross-line hatching.

17. In paragraph 14, The above hatching pattern is a cooking appliance including dot hatching.

18. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance in which an inner guide line, which becomes an inner boundary line of the optimal heating zone, and a light-emitting area, which is arranged on the outer side of the inner guide line and forms an outer boundary of the optimal heating zone, are formed on the upper surface of the top plate.

19. In paragraph 18, A light source module comprising a plurality of light source elements that irradiate visible light toward the above-described light-emitting region, and a circuit board on which the plurality of light source elements are mounted; Including more, A cooking appliance in which the plurality of light source elements are arranged in an arc shape having a radius larger than the radius of the inner guide line.

20. In paragraph 19, A cooking appliance in which the light source module is placed around the heating unit in a state separate from the heating unit.

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