Cooking appliance

The cooking appliance addresses the issue of inaccurate alignment in closed cooktop-type appliances by using a mounting bracket and supporter system for precise positioning of the touch PC, improving user interface recognition and assembly quality while simplifying maintenance.

WO2025110629A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2025-05-30LG ELECTRONICS INC
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/KR2024/018047
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-11-23
Filing Date
2024-11-15
Publication Date
2025-05-30

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In closed cooktop-type cooking appliances, inaccurate alignment of the operating unit or display unit at the bottom of the top plate leads to deteriorated user recognition performance and inaccurate operation display, complicating the overall structure and affecting productivity and maintenance.

Method used

A cooking appliance design that includes a mounting bracket on the top plate's lower surface, a touch PCB with a light-emitting member, and a supporter for accurate alignment and mounting, ensuring precise positioning of the touch PC and improving assembly convenience and maintainability.

Benefits of technology

The solution enables accurate mounting of the touch PC, enhancing user interface recognition, improving assembly quality, and simplifying maintenance by allowing for easy replacement or servicing of the touch PC.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention relates to a cooking appliance comprising: a case forming a space for receiving a heating source therein; a top plate shielding the open upper surface of the case and having food seated thereon; an operation unit formed in the top plate and displaying a user operation input and operation information; a mounting bracket having an opening and provided on the portion of the lower surface of the top plate corresponding to the operation unit; a touch PCB having at least a portion thereof positioned in the opening, and having a light-emitting member for radiating light which is transmitted through the top plate; and a supporter provided below the top plate and having the touch PCB mounted therein, wherein the mounting bracket is adhered to the lower surface of the top plate by means of an adhesive member, and a coupling unit which is coupled to the mounting bracket is formed on the supporter, and thus the supporter in a state where the touch PCB is mounted therein is coupled to the mounting bracket adhered to the top plate.
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Description

Cooking appliances

[0001] The present invention relates to a cooking appliance.

[0002] In general, a cooking appliance is a type of kitchen appliance that cooks food by heating it using a heat source. The cooking appliance may be configured to heat and cook food using electricity or gas as a heat source.

[0003] In addition, a sealed cooktop type cooking appliance is being developed in which a top plate is provided above a heating source, a space where a heating source is placed is shielded from above by the top plate, and a cooking object is placed on the top plate to heat it.

[0004] In a closed cooktop type cooking appliance like this, an operation unit for user operation and a display unit for indicating the operation status are arranged on the top plate to facilitate the user's operation and confirmation of the operation status.

[0005] However, if the control unit or display unit positioned at the bottom of the top plate is not accurately aligned, there is a problem in that the user's operation recognition performance deteriorates and the display of the operation is not accurately performed.

[0006] To address these issues, a structure can be added to align the control panel or display unit. However, this complicates the overall structure of the cooking appliance, resulting in inconveniences in productivity and maintenance.

[0007] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a cooking device that can mount a touch PCB mounted on a top plate at an accurate position.

[0008] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a cooking appliance that improves the convenience of assembly and work productivity of a touch PC.

[0009] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a cooking appliance that is easy to maintain and service.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a cooking appliance comprises: a case forming a space in which a heating source is accommodated; a top plate for shielding an opened upper surface of the case and on which food is placed; an operation unit formed on the top plate and on which a user operation input and operation information are displayed; a mounting bracket provided on a lower surface of the top plate corresponding to the operation unit and having an opening; a touch PCB having a light-emitting member for emitting light that transmits the top plate, at least a portion of which is positioned in the opening; and a supporter provided below the top plate on which the touch PCB is mounted, wherein the mounting bracket is adhered to the lower surface of the top plate by an adhesive member, and a coupling member coupled to the mounting bracket is formed on the supporter, such that the supporter in a state in which the touch PCB is mounted can be coupled to the mounting bracket adhered to the top plate.

[0011] The top plate is formed of a glass or ceramic material, and the operating portion is formed at a position corresponding to the light-emitting member and includes a light-transmitting portion that shines by transmitting light from the light-emitting member, and when the supporter is coupled to the mounting bracket, the light-emitting member and the light-transmitting portion can be aligned at positions corresponding to each other.

[0012] The above operation unit further includes a touch input unit that shows a user's touch operation position, and the touch PC is equipped with a touch sensor, and when the supporter is coupled to the mounting bracket, the touch sensor and the touch input unit can be aligned at corresponding positions.

[0013] The above touch sensor may include a capacitive touch sensor mounted on the touch PCB; and a transmission member disposed between the touch sensor and the lower surface of the top plate to transmit static electricity to the touch sensor when the touch input unit is touched.

[0014] The above adhesive member may be composed of an adhesive or an adhesive sheet.

[0015] The above mounting bracket includes an adhesive portion that is applied with an adhesive and is adhered to the lower surface of the top plate; and a support portion that is formed to be stepped downward from the adhesive portion and is coupled to the coupling portion, and an inner end of the support portion can define the opening.

[0016] The above mounting bracket may be formed in a plate shape of a metal material, and the supporter may be formed of a plastic material.

[0017] The above mounting bracket is formed in a square shape, and a plurality of the connecting portions are formed around the periphery of the supporter and can be connected to at least two sides of the mounting bracket.

[0018] The above-mentioned connecting portion may be positioned between the upper surface of the support portion and the lower surface of the top plate.

[0019] The above-mentioned connecting portion protrudes from the outer surface of the supporter and may overlap at least a portion of the supporting portion with the lower portion of the mounting bracket.

[0020] A first fastening hole is formed in the above support portion, a second fastening hole is formed in the above coupling portion at a position corresponding to the first fastening hole, and a fastening member penetrating the second fastening hole and the first fastening hole is fastened so as to couple the supporter and the mounting bracket.

[0021] When the above fastening member is fastened, the end of the fastening member may be bent so as to be spaced apart from the lower surface of the top plate, and the support portion may be bent so as to be spaced apart from the lower surface of the top plate by a set distance.

[0022] A guide hole is formed in the support portion corresponding to the above-mentioned connecting portion, and a guide protrusion protruding upward to be inserted into the guide hole may be formed in the connecting portion.

[0023] The above-mentioned connecting portion may be formed in multiple numbers in the supporter, and the guide hole may include a first guide hole having a diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the guide protrusion, a second guide hole having a long hole shape having a length longer in the left and right directions than the outer diameter of the guide protrusion, and a third guide hole having a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the guide protrusion.

[0024] The first guide hole and the second guide hole may be formed on the same extension line, and the third guide hole may be formed at a position facing the first guide hole and the second guide hole.

[0025] The cooking appliance according to the embodiment of the present invention has the following effects.

[0026] According to this embodiment, a touch-enabled PC capable of touch input can be mounted on a supporter and mounted on a mounting bracket on the lower surface of the top plate. At this time, the touch PC can be accurately mounted at a position corresponding to the operating unit of the top plate by aligning the supporter and the mounting bracket.

[0027] In particular, even if a minute dimensional error or deformation occurs during the molding of the supporter, the supporter can be aligned and mounted at an accurate position on the mounting bracket by the shape of a plurality of guide holes formed in the mounting bracket.

[0028] Accordingly, the operation of the above-mentioned operating unit can be accurately recognized, thereby improving the convenience of use and operational reliability.

[0029] In addition, there is an advantage in that the light-emitting member provided in the above touch PCB emits light at an accurate position and irradiates light so that it passes through the transmission portion of the top plate, thereby preventing appearance defects and improving assembly quality.

[0030] In addition, simply by mounting the supporter with the touch PC mounted on it to the mounting bracket, the touch PC can be positioned at an accurate position, thereby improving the convenience of assembly and workability.

[0031] In addition, even if the touch PC needs to be replaced or serviced due to an abnormality in the touch PC, there is an advantage in that the touch PC can be maintained by a simple operation of separating the supporter from the mounting bracket.

[0032] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the top plate, mounting bracket, supporter, and touch PCB of the cooking appliance as viewed from above.

[0034] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the combined structure of the top plate, mounting bracket, supporter, and touch PCB of the above cooking appliance as seen from below.

[0035] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the above mounting bracket as seen from above.

[0036] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket as seen from below.

[0037] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the supporter as seen from above.

[0038] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the supporter viewed from below.

[0039] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the above touch PC.

[0040] Figure 9 is a plan view showing the supporter with the touch PC mounted thereon connected to the mounting bracket.

[0041] Figure 10 is a bottom view showing a supporter with a touch PCB mounted on the mounting bracket mounted on the top plate.

[0042] Figure 11 is a perspective view taken along line 11-11 of Figure 10.

[0043] Figure 12 is a perspective view taken along line 12-12 of Figure 1.

[0044] Figure 13 is an enlarged view of part A of Figure 12.

[0045] Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing a mounting bracket and a supporter equipped with a touch PC according to a second embodiment of the present invention combined.

[0046] Figure 15 is a bottom view of Figure 14.

[0047] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a supporter with a touch PCB mounted on a mounting bracket mounted on a top plate according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a supporter with a touch PCB mounted on a mounting bracket mounted on a top plate according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments that present the spirit of the present invention, and other regressive inventions or embodiments within the scope of the present invention can be easily proposed by adding, modifying, or deleting other components.

[0050] Before explaining, let's define the direction. In the embodiment of the present invention, the direction toward the top plate based on the center of the cooking appliance shown in FIG. 1 can be defined as upward, the direction toward the case bottom as downward, and the direction toward the operating unit as forward and the direction away from the operating unit as rear. When discussing directions that are not defined, the direction can be defined and explained based on each drawing.

[0051] And, although the embodiment of the present invention is described by way of example with a cooktop that is built into furniture, it is to be understood that the present invention can be applied to various cooking appliances and home appliances having a top surface formed in a plate shape, a top surface that is touch-operated, and a top surface that is illuminated with light.

[0052] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the joint structure of the top plate, mounting bracket, supporter, and touch PCB of the cooking appliance as seen from above. Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the joint structure of the top plate, mounting bracket, supporter, and touch PCB of the cooking appliance as seen from below.

[0053] As illustrated, the cooking appliance (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may have an exterior formed by a case (12) and a top plate (11). For example, the cooking appliance (1) may be configured as a built-in type and may be embedded in a piece of furniture such as a sink, and the top plate (11) may be exposed to the upper surface of the furniture so that an object to be cooked may be placed thereon and cooked.

[0054] The case (12) is formed in a box shape and can form a space inside to accommodate a plurality of components for the operation of the cooking appliance (1). A heating source (13) can be arranged inside the case (12). For example, the heating source (13) can be applied to various types of heating sources capable of heating food placed on the top plate (11), such as an induction heater, an electric heater, a gas heater, a sealed heater, etc. A plurality of heating sources (13) can be arranged. The plurality of heating sources (13) can be configured to have different heating methods.

[0055] The case (12) above can form the remaining exterior of the cooking appliance (1) except for the top surface. In addition, the case (12) can be formed of a metal material. If the cooking appliance (1) is placed on the top surface of furniture as a standing type rather than a built-in type, the case (12) can be exposed to the outside to form the exterior.

[0056] The open upper surface of the case (12) can be shielded by the top plate (11). The top plate (11) can be formed to a size that can completely shield the upper surface of the case (12). In addition, when the cooking appliance (1) is mounted on the furniture, the top plate (11) can be exposed to the outside.

[0057] The top plate (11) may be formed of a plate-shaped material to which heat from the heating source (13) can be transferred. For example, the top plate (11) may be formed of a ceramic glass material. The top plate (11) may also be formed of various other materials, such as glass, that can transfer heat and allow a user's touch operation to be input.

[0058] The top plate (11) may be formed opaque so that the internal structure of the case (12) is not exposed. To this end, the top plate (11) may be made opaque by attaching an opaque film or by using various structures such as coating or deposition.

[0059] A heating element (112) indicating the position of the heating source (13) may be formed on the top plate (11). For example, the heating element (112) may be formed by printing or surface treatment at a position corresponding to the position of the heating source (13), and may indicate the position of the heating source (13) to the user. Accordingly, the user may place the food on the heating element (112) to effectively heat and cook it. At this time, the food includes a container containing the food to be cooked.

[0060] In addition, an operation unit (111) may be formed on the top plate (11). The operation unit (111) is for displaying a user's operation input and / or operation information, and may be placed in a visible state on the top plate (11). By operating the operation unit (111), the operation of the heating source (13) can be controlled, and the operation status of the cooking appliance (1) can be displayed.

[0061] For example, the operating unit (111) may be positioned in the center of the front portion of the top plate (11). Accordingly, user access and operation may be facilitated. Of course, the operating unit (111) may be positioned in a different location on the top plate (11) depending on the arrangement of the heating source (13) or the usage environment.

[0062] The above-described operating unit (111) may include a transparent portion (111a). The transparent portion (111a) may be formed at a position corresponding to the light-emitting member (43) arranged on the touch PCB (40). That is, the transparent portion (111a) may be formed at a position corresponding to the light-emitting member (43) of the touch PCB (40) when the touch PCB (40) is mounted. For example, the transparent portion (111a) may be formed in a simple, fine hole shape that can indicate on / off, or may be formed in an opening shape so that numbers or characters such as a 7-segment display can be displayed.

[0063] And, the light irradiated from the light-emitting member (43) can be transmitted through the transmission portion (111a) and irradiated to the outside of the top plate (11). The user can know the operating status of the cooking appliance (1) by the light irradiated from the transmission portion (111a). For example, the transmission portion (111a) can be formed transparently so as to allow light to pass through. That is, the transmission portion (111a) can be defined by forming a transparent area in a part of the opaque top plate (11). As another example, the transmission portion (111a) can be a hole penetrating the top plate (11). As another example, the transmission portion (111a) can be configured so that a display provided below can be visualized.

[0064] The above-described operation unit (111) may further include a touch input unit (111b). The touch input unit (111b) may indicate a user's touch manipulation position. The touch input unit (111b) may be formed at a position corresponding to a touch sensor (42 in FIG. 8) arranged on the substrate (41 in FIG. 8) when the touch PCB (40) is mounted. The touch input unit (111b) may be formed by printing, coating, or surface treatment so as to be visible on the top plate (11). Therefore, when a user touches the touch input unit (111b), the touch sensor (42) can recognize the user's manipulation.

[0065] In this way, the touch PC (40) is mounted so that the light-emitting member (43 in FIG. 8) and the touch sensor (42) are positioned corresponding to the positions of the transparent portion (111a) and the touch input portion (111b), and accurate information display and user operation input can be enabled. To this end, a mounting bracket (20) is placed on the lower surface of the top plate (11), and the supporter (30) with the touch PC (40) mounted thereon is coupled to the mounting bracket (20). Then, by coupling the mounting bracket (20) and the supporter (30), the light-emitting member (43) can be aligned with the transparent portion (111a), and the touch input portion (111b) can be aligned with the touch sensor (42).

[0066] The above mounting bracket (20) can be mounted at a position corresponding to the operation unit (111). The mounting bracket (20) can be mounted on the lower surface of the top plate (11) by an adhesive member (16 in FIG. 11). For example, the adhesive member can be an adhesive or an adhesive sheet. In addition, an adhesive position can be marked on the lower surface of the top plate (11) so that the mounting bracket (20) can be adhered at an exact position corresponding to the operation unit (111). The adhesive position can be marked by laser marking or printing. As another example, the mounting bracket (20) can be mounted at an exact position of the top plate (11) by a jig.

[0067] And, the supporter (30) of the chassis in which the touch PCB (40) is accommodated can be coupled to the mounting bracket (20) mounted on the top plate (11). At this time, a plurality of fastening members (15) are fastened to the supporter (30) so that the supporter (30) and the mounting bracket (20) can be firmly coupled.

[0068] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket as seen from above. And Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket as seen from below.

[0069] As illustrated, the mounting bracket (20) may be formed in a rectangular shape, and a bracket opening (210) may be formed in the center. That is, the mounting bracket (20) may be configured as a frame (21) in the shape of a rectangular frame with an opening in the center. Of course, the mounting bracket (20) may also have a shape other than a rectangular shape.

[0070] The above-mentioned mounting bracket (20) may be formed of a material that maintains strength to maintain a firm connection with the supporter (30) and prevent deformation. For example, the above-mentioned mounting bracket (20) may be formed of a metal material. The above-mentioned mounting bracket (20) may be formed of a plate-shaped metal material and may be folded multiple times to form an overall shape.

[0071] In detail, the mounting bracket (20) may be formed by a frame (21) forming a bracket opening (210). The frame (21) may include the adhesive portion (22) and the support portion (23). That is, the mounting bracket (20) may be formed by including the adhesive portion (22) and the support portion (23). The adhesive portion (22) forms the upper surface of the mounting bracket (20) and may provide a surface to which an adhesive is applied to be adhered to the lower surface of the top plate (11).

[0072] The above support portion (23) is formed to be stepped downward from the above bonding portion (22) and can be combined with the joining portion (34 in FIG. 6) of the frame (30). In addition, the mounting bracket opening (210) can be defined by the inner end of the support portion (23). In addition, the support portion (23) can be formed by continuously bending downward from the end of the bonding portion (22) and inward toward the center of the bracket opening (210).

[0073] An adhesive hole (221) may be formed in the above-described adhesive portion (22). The adhesive hole (221) may be filled with the adhesive material when the adhesive material is applied to the adhesive portion (22). Therefore, the adhesive portion (22) and the lower surface of the top plate (11) may be more firmly bonded to each other by the adhesive hole (221). A plurality of the adhesive holes (221) may be formed along the adhesive portion (22).

[0074] A first fastening hole (231) may be formed in the above support member (23). A fastening member (15) that penetrates the second fastening hole (341 in FIG. 6) of the supporter (30) may be fastened to the first fastening hole (231). The circumference of the first fastening hole (231) may be formed in a shape like a boss by extending upward, thereby making the fastening force of the fastening member (15) stronger.

[0075] And, the first fastening holes (231) may be formed in multiple numbers along the support member (23). For example, the first fastening holes (231) may be formed at least one each on the front, back, left, and right sides of the center of the mounting bracket (20). Accordingly, the supporter (30) may be firmly coupled to the mounting bracket (20) as a whole. And, among the entire support member (23), a plurality of first fastening holes (231) may be formed in the long front and rear support members (23), so as to more stably fix the supporter (30). For example, two first fastening holes (231) may be formed in the rear support member (23), and one first fastening hole (231) may be formed in the front support member (23).

[0076] Meanwhile, a guide hole (235) may be formed in the support portion (23). The guide hole (235) may be formed at a position corresponding to a joint portion formed in the supporter (30). The guide hole (235) may be opened to penetrate the support portion (23) and may be formed so that a guide protrusion (342 in FIG. 6) protruding from the joint portion (34) may be inserted therein.

[0077] The above guide hole (235) may be formed at a position corresponding to some of the entire connecting portions (34). Since the guide hole (235) is for the alignment of the supporter (30), a plurality of guide holes (235) may be formed to guide the supporter (30) to be aligned and mounted at an accurate position. For example, the guide hole (235) may be formed only at the front and rear of the four sides of the support portion (23).

[0078] The above guide hole (235) can be formed in a number corresponding to the number of the guide protrusions (342). Then, when the guide protrusions (342) are inserted into the guide holes (235), the supporter (30) can be aligned in the support portion (23). Then, when the guide protrusions (342) are inserted into the guide holes (235), the first fastening hole (231) and the second fastening hole (341) can be aligned.

[0079] The above guide holes (235) can be formed in different shapes to prevent incorrect installation of the supporter (30) and to facilitate positional alignment of the supporter (30) when mounted.

[0080] For example, the guide hole (235) may include a first guide hole (233) having a diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the guide protrusion (342), a second guide hole (232) and a third guide hole (234) having a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the guide protrusion (342).

[0081] The second guide hole (232) may be formed in a long hole shape having a length longer in the left and right directions than the outer diameter of the guide protrusion (342). In addition, the third guide hole (234) may include a third guide hole (234) having a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the guide protrusion (342).

[0082] The above guide hole (235) can be formed at the front and rear sides of the four sides of the support member (23) that are longer. In addition, the first guide hole (233) and the second guide hole (232) can be formed at the front. That is, the first guide hole (233) and the second guide hole (232) can be formed at the same side. The third guide hole (234) can be formed at the front side facing the positions of the first guide hole (233) and the second guide hole (232). The supporter (30) can be mounted in an accurate direction by the first guide hole (233), and the second guide hole (232) and the third guide hole (234) can allow for fine position adjustment of the supporter (30).

[0083] In addition, even when a slight deformation or dimensional error occurs during injection molding of the supporter (30), the supporter (30) can be aligned in a state where it can be mounted on the mounting bracket (20) due to the shapes of the second guide hole (232) and the third guide hole (234).

[0084] Meanwhile, a bending portion (24) extending downward may be further formed on one side of the support portion (23). The bending portion (24) may be positioned below the top plate (11) and may extend past the lower case (17 in FIG. 12) that shields the periphery of the heating source (13). Accordingly, the bending portion (24) may be combined with other components within the case (12) to more firmly fix the mounting bracket (20).

[0085] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the supporter as seen from above. Figure 7 is a perspective view of the supporter as seen from below.

[0086] As illustrated, the supporter (30) may include a supporter body (31) forming a receiving space (310) for receiving the touch PCB (40), and the connecting portion (34) protruding from the periphery of the supporter body (31). In addition, the supporter (30) may be injection-molded with a plastic material, so that the receiving space can be formed and the connecting portion (34) can be molded. The supporter (30) may also be formed integrally with at least a portion of the mounting bracket (20), if necessary.

[0087] The above supporter body (31) may include a supporter base (32) forming a lower surface and a supporter edge (33) extending upward along the perimeter of the supporter base (32). The above receiving space (310) opened upward may be defined by the supporter base (32) and the supporter edge (33).

[0088] The supporter base (32) may have a protruding base rib (321) that supports the touch PCB (40) from below. The base ribs (321) may be arranged in multiple numbers to intersect each other. The base ribs (321) may be distributed throughout the supporter base (32) to prevent deformation of the supporter (30) and reinforce its strength.

[0089] In addition, a plurality of support protrusions (324) protruding upward and supporting the lower surface of the substrate from below may be further formed on the support base (32).

[0090] The supporter base (32) may be formed with a substrate guide protrusion (322) protruding upward. The substrate guide protrusion (322) may be inserted into a substrate guide hole (410) formed in the touch PCB (40) so that the touch PCB (40) may be aligned and fixed to the supporter (30). The substrate guide protrusions (322) may be formed in multiple numbers and may have a circular cross-section. In addition, the multiple substrate guide protrusions (322) may be spaced apart from each other.

[0091] The above substrate guide protrusion (322) can be formed adjacent to the joining portion (34) formed in the latter half of the supporter (30). Therefore, when the touch PCB (40) and the mounting bracket (20) are joined to the supporter (30), the alignment status of the touch PCB (40) and the mounting bracket (20) can be simultaneously confirmed.

[0092] A base hole (323) may be formed in the supporter base (32). The base hole (323) penetrates the supporter base (32), and the connector (45 in FIG. 8) and wire of the touch PCB (40) may be arranged to pass through the supporter base (32) without interfering with the supporter (30).

[0093] The supporter (30) may include the coupling portion (34). The coupling portion (34) is for coupling the supporter (30) to the mounting bracket (20), and a plurality of coupling portions may be formed around the periphery of the supporter (30). The coupling portions (34) may be formed along the supporter edge (33). The coupling portions (34) may be formed on the front, back, left, and right sides of the periphery of the supporter (30), respectively. In addition, the rigid coupling portions (34) may be formed at positions corresponding to the first fastening holes (231), respectively. For example, two coupling portions (34) may be formed at the rear, and one each may be formed on the left, right, and front sides.

[0094] The above-mentioned connecting portion (34) may be formed to protrude outwardly from the supporter frame (33) and to be in contact with the lower surface of the support portion (23). In addition, a second fastening hole (341) may be formed in the connecting portion (34). The second fastening hole (341) may be formed at a position corresponding to the first fastening hole (231) and may be formed so that the fastening member (15) passes through it. In addition, the circumference of the second fastening hole (341) may protrude downward in a boss shape to further strengthen the fastening force with the fastening member (15).

[0095] A guide protrusion (342) may be formed on the above-described connecting portion (34). The guide protrusion (342) may be formed on a connecting portion (34) formed at a position corresponding to the guide hole (235) among the connecting portions (34). For example, the guide protrusion (342) may be formed on the connecting portions (34) at the front and rear. In addition, the guide protrusion (342) may be arranged parallel to the second fastening hole (341).

[0096] That is, the second fastening hole (341) and the guide protrusion (342) may be formed together in the front and rear-positioned fastening portions (34) among the plurality of fastening portions (34). In addition, the guide protrusion (342) may not be formed in the fastening portions (34) on the left and right sides, and only the second fastening hole (341) may be formed.

[0097] The above guide protrusion (342) has a circular cross-section and can protrude so as to be inserted into the inside of the guide hole (235). A plurality of the above guide protrusions (342) can have the same size and shape. At this time, the cross-sectional diameter of the guide protrusions (342) can be formed to a size corresponding to the inner diameter of the first guide hole (233).

[0098] Meanwhile, the coupling portion (34) may include an upper surface (343) of the coupling portion that comes into contact with the support portion (23), and a side portion (344) that extends downward from both ends of the upper surface (343) of the coupling portion and is connected to the supporter edge (33). The second fastening hole (341) and the guide protrusion (342) may be formed on the upper surface (343) of the coupling portion. In addition, deformation of the upper surface (343) of the coupling portion is prevented by the side portion (344), and alignment of the first fastening hole (231) and the second fastening hole (341) can be ensured.

[0099] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the above touch PC.

[0100] As illustrated, the touch PC (40) may include a plate-shaped substrate (41), and a plurality of touch sensors (42) and light-emitting members (43) provided on the substrate (41). The touch PC (40) may be referred to as an operation device since it is a device capable of receiving and displaying user operation input.

[0101] The above substrate (41) is formed in a plate shape and may be configured as a printed circuit board. In addition, the substrate (41) may be formed in a tongue shape and in a size that can be accommodated within the accommodation space (310).

[0102] In addition, the substrate (41) may be provided with the touch sensor (42). The touch sensor (42) may be provided on the upper surface of the substrate (41) and may be provided at a position corresponding to the touch input unit (111b).

[0103] Accordingly, when a user touches the touch input portion (111b) on the upper surface of the top plate (11), the operation of the user can be detected through the corresponding touch sensor (42). For example, the touch sensor (42) may include an electrostatic capacitive touch sensor.

[0104] The above touch sensor (42) can detect the operation of the touch input unit (111b) even when it is not in direct contact with the top plate (11). In addition, a transmission member may be provided between the touch sensor (42) and the lower surface of the top plate (11). The transmission member may be formed of a conductor and may transmit static electricity to the touch sensor (42) when the touch input unit (111b) is touched. Of course, the touch sensor (42) may be provided with a detection device of another type that can detect the operation of the top plate (11) other than a capacitance sensor.

[0105] The above substrate (41) may be provided with the light-emitting member (43). For example, the light-emitting member (43) may be composed of an LED. The light-emitting member (43) may be provided on the upper surface of the substrate (41). In addition, the light-emitting member (43) may be positioned downward corresponding to the transparent portion (111a).

[0106] The above-mentioned light-emitting member (433) may be composed of a single LED (432), or may be composed of a 7-segment (431) structure in which a plurality of LEDs are combined. For example, the LED (432) may be provided at a position adjacent to the touch sensor (42) to indirectly indicate the position of the touch sensor (42), or may indicate the on / off status of operations and functions. In addition, the 7-segment (431) may display numbers or letters through the combined operation of a plurality of LEDs, and may indicate the temperature, output, etc. of the heating source (13) through the transparent portion (111a).

[0107] The above light-emitting member (43) can be positioned at a position precisely aligned with the transmission portion (111a) as the supporter (30), the touch PCB (40), and the mounting bracket (20) are aligned and mounted, and thus light can be accurately transmitted even to the transmission portion (111a) of a minute size.

[0108] In addition, the lower surface of the substrate (41) may be provided with a connector (45) connected to a wire. The connector (45) may be formed at a position corresponding to the base hole (323).

[0109] A substrate guide hole (410) may be further formed in the substrate (41). The substrate guide hole (410) is formed so that the substrate guide protrusion (322) can be inserted, and the substrate (41) can be mounted at an accurate position inside the supporter (30).

[0110] The above substrate guide hole (410) may be provided in pairs at the rear end of the substrate (41). The substrate guide hole (410) may be formed at a position corresponding to the substrate guide protrusion (322) and may be formed to penetrate the substrate (41).

[0111] The above substrate guide hole (410) may include a first substrate guide hole (411) and a second substrate guide hole (412) formed in different shapes. For example, the first substrate guide hole (411) may be formed in a circular shape corresponding to the substrate guide protrusion (322). In addition, the second substrate guide hole (412) may be formed in a long hole shape into which the substrate guide protrusion (322) is inserted.

[0112] In detail, the length of the short axis of the second substrate guide hole (412) may correspond to the diameter of the substrate guide protrusion (322). In addition, the length of the long axis of the second substrate guide hole (412) may be formed longer than the diameter of the substrate guide protrusion (322). That is, the second substrate guide protrusion (322) may be formed in a long hole shape that is long in the left-right direction. Accordingly, the touch PCB (40) may be capable of fine position adjustment in the left-right direction while mounted on the supporter (30).

[0113] And, even if the shape of the supporter (30) is deformed or there is a slight error in the dimensions during the molding of the supporter (30), the substrate guide protrusion (322) can be inserted into the second substrate guide hole (412) due to the shape of the second substrate guide hole. And, the touch PCB (40) can maintain an accurate mounting position inside the supporter (30).

[0114] Below, the combined state of the touch PCB (40), supporter (30), and mounting bracket (20) having the above structure will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0115] Fig. 9 is a plan view showing the supporter with the touch PCB mounted thereon and coupled to the mounting bracket. Fig. 10 is a bottom view showing the supporter with the touch PCB mounted thereon and coupled to the mounting bracket mounted on the top plate. Fig. 11 is a perspective view taken along line 11-11 of Fig. 10. Fig. 12 is a perspective view taken along line 12-12 of Fig. 1. Fig. 13 is an enlarged view of section A of Fig. 12.

[0116] As illustrated, the touch PC (40) can be mounted on the supporter (30). And, the supporter (30) can be mounted on the mounting bracket (20) with the touch PC (40) mounted thereon.

[0117] The above touch PCB (40) can be positioned within the receiving space of the supporter (30). At this time, the substrate guide protrusion (322) of the supporter (30) can be inserted into the substrate guide hole (410) of the substrate.

[0118] In detail, a pair of substrate guide protrusions (322) can be inserted into the first substrate guide hole (411) and the second substrate guide hole (412) arranged on the left and right sides, respectively. At this time, the first substrate guide hole (411) and the substrate guide protrusion (322) have the same diameter (D4) and are formed in a corresponding shape so that the touch PCB (40) is mounted on the supporter (30) in the correct direction.

[0119] In addition, the diameter (D5) of the second substrate guide hole (412) is formed in a long hole shape that is longer than the diameter (D4) of the substrate guide protrusion (322), and can be formed longer in the left and right directions. Therefore, even with a slight deformation of the supporter (30), the combination of the touch PCB (40) and the supporter (30) can be possible.

[0120] Accordingly, the touch PC (40) can be accurately mounted at a position set inside the supporter (30). With the touch PC (40) mounted on the supporter (30), the connector (45) can be exposed downward through the base hole (323) to allow wires to be connected.

[0121] Meanwhile, the supporter (30) with the touch PC (40) mounted thereon can be coupled to the mounting bracket (20). The supporter (30) can be positioned so that the coupling portion (34) is in contact with the lower surface of the support portion (23). At this time, the guide protrusion (342) formed on the coupling portion (34) can be inserted into the guide hole (235) formed on the support portion (23) to guide the mounting position.

[0122] A plurality of the above guide protrusions (342) can be inserted into each of the guide holes (235). In detail, the guide protrusions (342) can be inserted into the first guide hole (233) and the second guide hole (232) formed in the support portion at the rear, respectively. In addition, the guide protrusions (342) can be inserted into the third guide hole (234) formed in the support portion (23) at the front.

[0123] Accordingly, the supporter (30) can be fixed to the mounting bracket (20) in its front and back halves. In addition, the third guide hole (234) can be positioned between the first guide hole (233) and the second guide hole (232) to provide a stable three-point fixing structure.

[0124] Meanwhile, the first guide hole (233) is formed with a corresponding shape and the same diameter (D1) as the guide protrusion (342), so that the supporter (30) can be mounted on the mounting bracket (20) in the correct direction. In addition, the diameter (D2) of the second guide hole (232) is formed in a long hole shape that is longer in the left-right direction than the diameter (D1) of the guide protrusion (342), so that the supporter (30) can be combined with the guide protrusion (342) even when the supporter (30) is deformed in the left-right direction. In addition, the diameter (D3) of the third guide hole (234) is formed larger in the front-back and left-right directions than the diameter (D1) of the guide protrusion (342), so that the supporter (30) can be combined with the guide protrusion (342) even when the supporter (30) is deformed in the left-right direction and front-back direction.

[0125] That is, even if the supporter (30) injection-molded with a plastic material is subject to shrinkage deformation or slight changes in dimension during the molding process, the supporter (30) can be mounted in an aligned state on the mounting bracket (20) by the shape of the second guide hole (232) and the second guide hole (232).

[0126] When a plurality of the above guide protrusions (342) and the above guide holes (235) are coupled to each other, the first fastening hole (231) of the above mounting bracket (20) and the second fastening hole (341) of the above coupling portion (34) can be aligned with each other. In addition, the above coupling member (15) is coupled to the lower portion of the above coupling portion (34) to firmly couple the above supporter (30) to the above mounting bracket (20).

[0127] Meanwhile, in a state where the supporter (30) is mounted on the mounting bracket (20), the support portion (23) and the lower surface of the top plate (11) can be spaced apart by a set distance (H3). In addition, the fastening member (15) is formed to have a set fastening length (H1) and can extend upwards further through the support portion (23). At this time, the fastening length (H1) of the fastening member (15) is a length that extends through the connecting portion (34) and the support portion (23), and can extend to a height lower than the lower surface of the top plate (11). Therefore, when the fastening member (15) is fastened, the end of the fastening member (15) can be spaced apart from the lower surface of the top plate (11) by a set distance (H2).

[0128] And, when the supporter (30) is coupled to the mounting bracket (20), the touch sensor (42) and the touch input unit (111b) can be aligned at corresponding positions. And, when the supporter (30) is coupled to the mounting bracket (20), the light-emitting member (43) and the light-transmitting unit (111a) can be aligned at corresponding positions.

[0129] Accordingly, when the light-emitting member (43) operates, light can be transmitted and irradiated through the light-transmitting portion (111a) of a small size. In addition, when the touch input portion (111b) is operated, the cooking device (1) can be operated.

[0130] Meanwhile, the cooking appliance according to the embodiment of the present invention may have various other embodiments in addition to the above-described embodiments. Below, other embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0131] Other embodiments of the present invention differ from the aforementioned embodiments only in some configurations. Therefore, to avoid redundancy, detailed descriptions and illustrations of identical components may be omitted, and only the components with differences will be described in detail. Furthermore, components not illustrated may be indicated using the drawing reference numbers of the aforementioned embodiments.

[0132] Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing a mounting bracket and a supporter equipped with a touch PCB combined according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 15 is a bottom view of Fig. 14. Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a supporter equipped with a touch PCB combined with a mounting bracket mounted on a top plate according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0133] As illustrated, the cooking appliance (1) according to the second embodiment of the present invention has the same structure except that there is a difference only in the shape of the mounting bracket (20') and the supporter (30').

[0134] The above-mentioned mounting bracket (20') may include a frame (21) having a rectangular frame shape and a bracket opening (210) formed inside the frame (21). In addition, the supporter (30') on which the touch PCB (40) is mounted may be placed inside the bracket opening (210).

[0135] The touch PCB (40) is provided with the substrate guide holes (411, 412), and the substrate guide protrusion (322) of the supporter (30') is inserted so that the touch PCB (40) can be fixedly mounted on the supporter (30'). The structure of the touch PCB (40) and the connection structure with the supporter (30') may be the same as in the above-described embodiment.

[0136] The above frame (21) may include an adhesive portion (22) that is adhered to the top plate (11) by an adhesive member (16), and a support portion (23) that is coupled to the supporter (30'). The permanent support portion (23) may be formed to have a downward step, and may form a space for fastening a fastening member (15) that couples the supporter (30') and the mounting bracket (20').

[0137] A plurality of first fastening holes (231) may be formed in the above support member (23) to which the fastening member (34) of the supporter (30') is fastened. In addition, a second fastening hole (341) may be formed in the fastening member (34). In addition, the fastening member (15) may be fastened so as to penetrate through the second fastening hole (341) and the first fastening hole (231) from the lower side of the fastening member (34).

[0138] The support member (23) may further be formed with a mounting portion (236) on which the supporter fixing portion (35) of the supporter (30') is mounted. The mounting portion (236) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the supporter fixing portion (35). In addition, the mounting portion may be sunken downward so that the supporter (30') can be accommodated therein.

[0139] The above supporter (30') may be injection-molded from a plastic material. In addition, the supporter (30') may include a supporter body (31) in which a receiving space is formed. The supporter body (31) may include a supporter base (32) and a supporter frame (33).

[0140] A base hole (323) through which the connector (45) of the substrate (41) is exposed can be formed in the above supporter base (32).

[0141] The above-mentioned connecting portions (34) may be formed in multiple numbers along the supporter edge (33), and the first fastening hole (231) may be formed in a position corresponding to the second fastening hole (341) formed in each of the connecting portions (34). In addition, among the multiple connecting portions (34), a guide protrusion (342) may be further formed in the connecting portion (34) formed at one end of the supporter (30').

[0142] And, a guide hole (234) into which the guide protrusion is inserted can be formed in the support portion (23) corresponding to the guide protrusion (342). The guide hole (234) is formed so that the guide protrusion (342) is inserted, and may have a diameter slightly larger than that of the guide protrusion (342) or may be formed in a long hole shape. Therefore, even when the supporter (30') is deformed or has a dimensional error, the guide protrusion (342) and the guide hole (234) can be coupled to each other, and the first fastening hole (231) and the second fastening hole (341) can be aligned to each other.

[0143] In addition, the supporter fixing portion (35) may be further formed on the other end of the supporter (30'). The supporter fixing portion (35) may be formed on an end facing the connecting portion (34). For example, the connecting portion (34) may be formed to protrude forward from the front end of the supporter edge (33), and the supporter fixing portion (35) may be formed to protrude rearward from the rear end of the supporter edge (33). The supporter fixing portions (35) may be spaced apart from each other in multiple numbers, and may be formed in a size and shape that can be accommodated in the mounting portion (236).

[0144] Therefore, in order to attach the supporter (30') with the substrate (41) mounted thereon to the mounting bracket (20'), the supporter fixing portion (35) at the rear end of the supporter (30') is first tilted upward and inserted into the inner side of the mounting portion (236). The pair of supporter fixing portions (35) can be temporarily fixed in the left and right directions and rearward position of the supporter (30') while being inserted into the mounting portion (236).

[0145] In this state, the connecting portion (34) of the supporter (30') is placed on the lower surface of the support portion (23) of the mounting bracket (20'). At this time, the guide protrusion (342) can be inserted into the guide hole (234) so ​​that the first fastening hole (231) and the second fastening hole (341) are aligned. Then, the fastening member (15) can be fastened so that the supporter (30') and the mounting bracket (20') can be firmly connected.

[0146] In addition, the connecting portion (34) may be formed on both left and right sides of the supporter (30'). Accordingly, the connecting member (15) may be connected so as to penetrate the connecting portion (34) located on the left and right sides, thereby further fixing the supporter (30') to the mounting bracket (20'). In addition, by connecting the connecting member (15), the supporter (30') may be mounted in an aligned state at an accurate position below the top plate (11).

[0147] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a supporter with a touch PCB mounted on a mounting bracket mounted on a top plate according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0148] As illustrated, the cooking appliance (1) according to the third embodiment of the present invention has the same structure as the other embodiments except that there is a difference in the shape of the mounting bracket (20'') and the supporter (30'').

[0149] The above-mentioned mounting bracket (20'') may include a frame (21) having a rectangular frame shape and a bracket opening (210) formed inside the frame (21). In addition, the supporter (30'') on which the touch PCB (40) is mounted may be placed inside the bracket opening (210).

[0150] The frame (21) of the above-described mounting bracket (20'') may include an adhesive portion (22) that is adhered to the lower surface of the top plate (11) by an adhesive member (16), a support portion (23'') that restrains the supporter (30''), and an extension portion (25) between the adhesive portion (22) and the support portion (23''). The above-described mounting bracket (20'') is formed of a metal plate-like material, and may be bent multiple times to form the adhesive portion (22), the support portion (23''), and the extension portion (25).

[0151] Meanwhile, the support portion (23'') can support the circumference of the supporter (30'') from below, and the support portion (23'') can be formed to overlap the lower surface of the supporter (30''). In addition, the distance between the support portion (23'') and the top plate (11) can correspond to the vertical height of the supporter (30'') on which the touch PCB (40) is mounted. In addition, the extension portion (25) can have a structure that extends inwardly as it faces downward. The support portion (23'') can press the lower surface of the supporter (30'') by the extension portion (25). Therefore, the upper surface of the touch PCB (40), that is, the touch sensor (42), can be in close contact with the top plate (11).

[0152] And, a fastening member (15) that connects the mounting bracket (20'') and the supporter (30'') can be fastened to the support member (23''). The first fastening hole (231) can be formed in the support member (23''), and the second fastening hole (341) can be formed in the supporter (30''). Therefore, the first fastening hole (231) and the second fastening hole (341) can be aligned when the supporter (30'') is secured to the support member (23''). The fastening member (15) can be fastened to the lower portion of the support member (23''), and can be fastened so as to sequentially pass through the first fastening hole (231) and the second fastening hole (341).

[0153] The first fastening hole (231) and the second fastening hole (341) may be formed in multiple numbers along the periphery of the support member (23'') and the supporter (30''). Accordingly, by fastening a plurality of the fastening members (15), the supporter (30'') can be firmly fixed to the mounting bracket (20'') and can be mounted in an aligned state at an accurate position below the top plate (11).

[0154] The cooking appliance according to the embodiment of the present invention will have high industrial applicability because its assembly workability and productivity are improved.

Claims

1. A case forming a space in which a heating source is accommodated; A top plate that shields the open upper surface of the case and on which food is placed; An operating unit formed on the top plate and displaying user operation input and operation information; A mounting bracket having an opening and provided on the lower surface of the top plate corresponding to the above operating unit; A touch PCB having a light-emitting member positioned at least partially in the opening and configured to irradiate light that passes through the top plate; and It is provided on the lower side of the top plate and includes a supporter on which the touch PC is mounted. The above mounting bracket is attached to the lower surface of the top plate by an adhesive material, The above supporter is formed with a joint that is joined to the above mounting bracket, A cooking appliance in which the supporter with the touch PC mounted thereon is connected to the mounting bracket attached to the top plate.

2. In paragraph 1, The above top plate is formed of glass or ceramic material, The above operating part is formed at a position corresponding to the light-emitting member and includes a light-transmitting part through which light from the light-emitting member is transmitted and shines, A cooking appliance in which the light-emitting member and the light-transmitting member are aligned at corresponding positions when the above supporter is coupled to the above mounting bracket.

3. In paragraph 2, The above operating unit further includes a touch input unit that shows the user's touch operation position, The above touch PC is equipped with a touch sensor. A cooking appliance in which the touch sensor and the touch input unit are aligned at corresponding positions when the above supporter is coupled to the above mounting bracket.

4. In paragraph 3, The above touch sensor, A capacitive touch sensor mounted on the above touch PCB; A cooking appliance including a transmission member that is arranged between the touch sensor and the lower surface of the top plate and transmits static electricity to the touch sensor when the touch input unit is touched.

5. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance wherein the above adhesive member is composed of an adhesive or an adhesive sheet.

6. In paragraph 1, The above mounting bracket, An adhesive portion applied with adhesive and adhered to the lower surface of the top plate; and It is formed in a step downward from the above-mentioned adhesive portion and includes a support portion that is connected to the above-mentioned joining portion, A cooking appliance in which the inner end of the above support defines the above opening.

7. In paragraph 6, The above mounting bracket is formed in a plate shape of metal material, The above supporter is a cooking appliance formed of a plastic material.

8. In paragraph 6, The above mounting bracket is formed in a square shape, A cooking appliance in which a plurality of said connecting parts are formed around the periphery of the supporter and are connected to at least two sides of the mounting bracket.

9. In paragraph 8, A cooking appliance in which the above-mentioned connecting portion is positioned between the upper surface of the above-mentioned supporting portion and the lower surface of the above-mentioned top plate.

10. In paragraph 6, A cooking appliance in which the above-mentioned connecting portion protrudes from the outer surface of the above-mentioned supporter and overlaps at least a portion of the above-mentioned supporting portion at the lower portion of the above-mentioned mounting bracket.

11. In Article 10, A first fastening hole is formed in the above support member, In the above-mentioned joint, a second fastening hole is formed at a position corresponding to the first fastening hole, A cooking appliance in which a fastening member penetrating the second fastening hole and the first fastening hole is fastened to connect the supporter and the mounting bracket.

12. In paragraph 11, When fastening the above fastening member, the end of the above fastening member is spaced apart from the lower surface of the top plate. A cooking appliance in which the above support member is bent so as to be spaced apart from the lower surface of the top plate by a set distance.

13. In paragraph 11, A guide hole is formed in the support portion corresponding to the above-mentioned joint portion, A cooking appliance in which a guide projection protruding upwardly is formed on the above-mentioned joint to be inserted into the above-mentioned guide hole.

14. In paragraph 13, The above-mentioned connecting member is formed in multiple numbers on the supporter, The above guide hole is, A first guide hole having a diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the above guide protrusion, A second guide hole in the shape of a long hole having a length longer in the left and right directions than the outer diameter of the above guide protrusion, A cooking appliance including a third guide hole having a larger diameter than the outer diameter of the guide protrusion.

15. In paragraph 14, The above first guide hole and the second guide hole are formed on the same extension line, A cooking appliance in which the third guide hole is formed at a position facing the first guide hole and the second guide hole.

Citation Information

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