Cooking apparatus

Abstract

A cooking apparatus of one embodiment may comprise: a heating part for heating an object; and a cooktop including an upper plate disposed above the heating part. The heating part includes: a heating coil to which electricity is applied to generate heat; a case for accommodating the heating coil; and an insulation cover which is disposed on the upper side of the case, and which prevents the heat generated by the heating coil from being transferred to the outside, wherein the upper plate can have a plurality of protrusion parts spaced apart from each other on the lower surface thereof facing the insulation cover.

Description

Cooking appliances

[0001] The present invention relates to a cooking appliance, and more particularly, to a cooking appliance having a structure with improved heating efficiency.

[0002] The material described in this section merely provides background information for the present invention and does not constitute prior art.

[0003] Cooking appliances are a type of home appliance used for cooking food. They are installed in the kitchen and cook food according to the user's preferences. These cooking appliances can be categorized in various ways based on the heat source, form, or type of fuel used.

[0004] Among these cooking appliances, there is a cooktop that heats the food being cooked by placing it on top of a heat source below.

[0005] A cooktop may be equipped with a heating coil that generates heat when supplied with electricity, and a top plate that is placed above the heating coil and on which a container containing food is placed.

[0006] It's efficient for all heat generated by the heating coil to pass through the cooktop and onto the container placed on it. However, not all of the heat generated by the heating coil is transferred to the cooktop; it can be transferred to other areas or components of the cooktop.

[0007] The cooktop may be equipped with a top plate supporting the cooking surface, which may be positioned adjacent to the heating coil.

[0008] Typically, the top plate is formed from a metal material that is easily rolled to enhance manufacturability. Metal top plates can be highly effective heat dissipation devices.

[0009] Therefore, heat that is not transferred to the top plate but is dissipated through gaps between other components or components housing the heating coil may be dissipated outside the metal top plate. This results in a significant amount of heat not being used to heat the food container, but rather being released into the atmosphere.

[0010] This structure can degrade the performance of the cooktop and cooking appliance. Therefore, a structure is needed that can prevent the heating coil from being used to heat the container and from escaping into the atmosphere from other areas of the cooktop, rather than the top plate.

[0011] An object of the present invention is to provide a cooking appliance having a structure capable of suppressing heat transfer from a heating element of a cooktop to a top plate.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a cooking appliance having an insulating member that blocks the gap between the top plate and the heating element and suppresses heat transfer by convection through the gap.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a cooking appliance equipped with an insulating member that is easy to assemble.

[0014] The purposes of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above. Other purposes and advantages of the present invention not mentioned above can be understood through the following description and will be more clearly understood through embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent that the purposes and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims.

[0015] One embodiment of the cooking appliance may include a cooktop including a heating unit that heats an object; and a top plate disposed above the heating unit.

[0016] The heating unit includes a heating coil that generates heat when electricity is applied; a case that accommodates the heating coil; and an insulating cover that is arranged on the upper side of the case and suppresses heat generated from the heating coil from being transferred to the outside, and the upper plate may be provided with a plurality of protrusions spaced apart from each other on the lower side facing the insulating cover.

[0017] The cooking appliance may include an insulating member disposed between the top plate and the insulating cover and having a shape corresponding to the insulating cover.

[0018] The insulating material can prevent the heat generated from the heating coil from being transferred laterally to the outside of the case through the gap in the lower surface of the top plate by convection.

[0019] The case includes a bottom surface portion in which a heating coil is accommodated; and a ring-shaped cylindrical surface portion that surrounds the outside of the bottom surface portion and protrudes upward, and an insulating cover is disposed on the upper side of the cylindrical surface portion and is provided in a ring shape, and an insulating member may be provided in a ring shape corresponding to the insulating cover.

[0020] The insulating material may be applied in a liquid form to fill the gaps in the protrusions and harden.

[0021] The insulating member may be provided as a solid material covering the upper surface of the insulating cover.

[0022] The insulating member is provided in a shape corresponding to the insulating cover, and can suppress the heat generated from the heating coil from being transferred to the outside in the lateral direction of the case through the gap in the lower surface of the top plate by convection.

[0023] The insulating member may be formed of a flexible material that is deformable by the protrusions to fill the gaps formed by the protrusions.

[0024] The insulating material may be provided to be removable from the case.

[0025] The case may include a first fastening portion that protrudes outward from the cylindrical surface portion and is provided in a plurality of positions spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical surface portion, and in which a hole is formed to which a coupling mechanism is fastened.

[0026] The insulating member may include a second fastening member that is provided in a plurality of pieces that protrude outwardly and are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction, is provided at a position corresponding to the first fastening member, and has a hole formed in which a fastening mechanism is formed.

[0027] The first fastening part and the second fastening part are connected by a connecting mechanism so that the insulating member can be placed at the precise position designed on the upper side of the insulating cover.

[0028] In another embodiment of the cooking appliance, the heating unit includes a heating coil that generates heat when electricity is applied thereto; an insulating pad disposed on a lower side of the heating coil; a case that accommodates the heating coil and the insulating pad; and an insulating cover disposed in a ring shape on an upper edge, and the top plate has a plurality of protrusions spaced apart from each other on a lower surface facing the insulating cover, and the cooking appliance may include an insulating member disposed between the top plate and the insulating cover and having a shape corresponding to the insulating cover.

[0029] In a cooking appliance according to the present invention, the insulating member may be provided in a shape corresponding to the insulating cover. Accordingly, the heating coil may be sealed laterally by the insulating cover and the insulating member, and upwardly by the top plate.

[0030] The insulating material can fill the gap created by the protrusion formed on the underside of the top plate. Therefore, the insulating material effectively prevents heat generated by the heating coil from being transferred laterally to the outside of the case through the gap on the underside of the top plate.

[0031] In addition, in the cooking appliance according to the present invention, a first fastening portion may be formed on the case and a second fastening portion may be formed on the insulating member. Due to this structure, the first fastening portion and the second fastening portion are joined by a joining mechanism, so that the insulating member can be positioned at the precise position designed on the upper side of the insulating cover.

[0032] Therefore, when assembling a cooktop, it is possible to effectively prevent assembly defects in which the insulation material detaches from the upper side of the insulation cover and fails to fill the gap between the top plate and the insulation cover when assembly is completed.

[0033] 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.

[0034] Figure 1 is a drawing showing a cooking appliance according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figure 2 is an exploded view of a cooktop according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a heating unit according to one embodiment.

[0037] Figure 4 is a plan view of a heating unit according to one embodiment.

[0038] Figure 5 is an exploded view of a portion of a heating unit according to one embodiment.

[0039] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a cooktop without insulation.

[0040] Figure 7 is an enlarged drawing of the lower surface of the top plate.

[0041] FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of a cooktop according to one embodiment.

[0042] Figure 9 is a drawing for explaining the heat transfer trend in the absence of an insulating material.

[0043] Figure 10 is a drawing of Figure 9 with an added insulating member.

[0044] Figure 11 is an exploded view of a cooktop according to one embodiment.

[0045] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a cooktop according to an embodiment.

[0046] Figure 13 is a drawing of Figure 12 viewed from a different direction.

[0047] Figure 14 is an exploded view of a cooktop according to another embodiment.

[0048] Figure 15 is a drawing of Figure 14 viewed from a different direction.

[0049] 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 ideas of the present invention. In describing the present invention, if a detailed description of a known technology related to the present invention is judged to 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] Throughout this specification, "up-down" refers to the up-down direction of the cooking appliance when installed for everyday use. "Left-right" refers to the direction perpendicular to the up-down direction, and "front-back" refers to the direction perpendicular to both the up-down and left-right directions. "Bilateral" or "lateral" has the same meaning as left-right, and these terms may be used interchangeably throughout this specification.

[0055] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a cooking appliance according to an embodiment. As illustrated, the cooking appliance (1) according to the embodiment may include a cooktop (20). For example, the cooking appliance (1) may be a composite cooking appliance (1) including a cooktop (20) and an oven section (10), and the cooktop (20) may be placed above the oven section (10). Of course, the cooking appliance (1) may be composed of a cooktop (20) alone, may be built-in to a piece of furniture such as a sink, or may be placed as a freestanding type.

[0056] Below, the structure of a composite cooking appliance in which a cooktop (20) is placed on the upper side of an oven section (10) is described in detail.

[0057] The oven section (10) may include a main body (11) having a cavity formed with an open front, and a door (12) connected to the main body (11) to open and close the cavity. The cavity forms a cooking space, and a heating source such as a heater or burner is placed to heat the cooking space and cook food.

[0058] And, a cooktop (20) can be placed on the upper side of the oven section (10). The cooktop (20) can have a container containing food for cooking placed on the upper plate (23), and the container can be heated by a heating section (22) placed on the lower side of the upper plate (23).

[0059] The cooking appliance (1) may include an operating unit (30). For example, 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).

[0060] Depending on the need, the control unit (30) may be composed of buttons, switches, or touch control devices. The control unit (30) may be placed on the cooktop (20). In addition, a display (32) that displays the operating status of the cooking appliance (1) may be provided on one side of the control unit (30).

[0061] Below, the structure of the cooktop (20) will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. Fig. 2 is an exploded view of a cooktop according to one embodiment.

[0062] As illustrated, the cooktop (20) may include a top plate (21), a heating element (22), and a top plate (23).

[0063] The top plate (21) accommodates a portion of the heating element (22), and a top plate (23) can be placed on the upper surface. The top plate (21) is formed in a rectangular shape and can form the overall frame of the cooktop (20). In addition, the top plate (21) can provide a structure in which the heating element (22) and the top plate (23) can be mounted.

[0064] For example, the top plate (21) may be formed of a metal material and may form the lower part of the cooktop (20). In a structure in which the cooktop (20) is installed independently, the top plate (21) may form the exterior of the remaining part except for the upper surface of the cooktop (20).

[0065] A cutout (212) for mounting a heating element (22) may be formed in the cooktop (20). The cutout (212) may be formed so that the top plate (23) and the heating coil (223) are cut to face each other at the location where the heating element (22) is to be placed. The heating element (22) may be positioned inside the cutout (212).

[0066] A cooktop (20) may be equipped with a plurality of heating elements (22). Cutouts (212) may be formed in a number corresponding to the number of heating elements (22) on the top plate (21). As described later, when the cutouts (212) are integrated into one, two heating elements (22) may correspond to one integrated cutout (212).

[0067] The heating unit (22) can heat an object. Here, the object can be a container containing food to be cooked, which is placed on the upper surface of the top plate (23).

[0068] The heating unit (22) can be mounted on the inside of the cutout unit (212) and can be fixedly mounted on the top plate (21). The heating unit (22) can be configured in various ways depending on the type of heat source, and can be configured to heat a container placed on the upper surface of the top plate (23). Hereinafter, a heating unit (22) equipped with an electric resistance heating device, for example, will be described.

[0069] Meanwhile, a top plate (23) can be mounted on the upper surface of the cooktop (20). The top plate (23) forms the upper surface of the cooktop (20) and, when mounted, can shield the heating element (22) from the upper side.

[0070] In order to mount the top plate (23), a top plate mounting portion (211) that is sunken downward may be formed on the upper surface of the top plate (21). The top plate mounting portion (211) may be sunken to a size corresponding to that of the top plate (23). In addition, the sunken depth of the top plate mounting portion (211) may correspond to the thickness of the top plate (23). In addition, a plurality of cutout portions (212) may be located in the inner region of the top plate mounting portion (211).

[0071] The top plate (23) can be placed on the upper side of the heating element (22). The top plate (23) is formed in a flat shape to form the upper surface of the cooktop (20) and at the same time, a container for heating can be placed thereon. Accordingly, the top plate (23) can be formed from a material that can be molded into a plate shape with heat resistance and high flatness.

[0072] For example, the top plate (23) may be formed of heat-resistant glass, tempered glass, or ceramic glass. Furthermore, the top plate (23) may be formed to be transparent or opaque. Furthermore, the top plate (23) may be formed to have a smooth surface to prevent contamination and discoloration and maintain excellent cleanability.

[0073] In addition, a container guide may be formed on the top plate (23) at a position corresponding to the heating section (22). The container guide may be formed vertically above the heating section (22) and may be formed along the perimeter of the heating section (22).

[0074] For example, the container guide may be formed in a circular shape corresponding to the heating element (22). In this case, the container guide may be formed, for example, by being printed on the upper surface of the top plate (23).

[0075] Meanwhile, the cooktop (20) may include a spring (24). The spring (24) may be provided to couple the heating unit (22) to the top plate (21). For example, the springs (24) may be arranged in a plurality of positions spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the case (221) of the heating unit (22).

[0076] A portion of the spring (24) may be coupled to the heating portion (22), and a portion may be coupled to the top plate (21), so that the heating portion (22) may be placed in the cutout portion (212) of the top plate (22). The spring (24) may be formed in a “C” shape, for example, but is not limited thereto.

[0077] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a heating unit according to an embodiment. Fig. 4 is a plan view of a heating unit according to an embodiment. The heating unit (22) may include a heating coil (223), a case (221), and a thermistor (227). First, the thermistor (227) will be described. The thermistor (227) is provided in the heating unit and can measure the temperature of the heating coil (223).

[0078] The thermistor (227) may be provided with a thermostat (2271), a housing (2272), a terminal (2273), and a fixing bracket (2274). The thermostat (2271) measures the temperature of the heating coil (223) and may extend toward the center of the heating coil (223). The thermostat (2271)

[0079] The thermostat (2271) can detect the temperature of the heating coil (223) and measure the temperature of the upper side of the heating coil (223). Of course, the thermostat (2271) is not in contact with the heating coil (223) but is positioned slightly apart from it, so it can measure the temperature of the upper side of the heating coil (223).

[0080] The housing (2272) can be coupled with a thermostat (2271) and can accommodate a device for electrically connecting the heating coil (223) and an external power source. In addition, a switch device can be provided inside the housing (2272) to control the on / off of the heating coil (223) by connecting and short-circuiting the heating coil (223) and the power source.

[0081] If the temperature of the heating coil (223) measured from the thermostat (2271) exceeds the set temperature, this means that the heating coil (223) is overheated, so the switch device operates to turn off the heating coil (223).

[0082] The terminal (2273) is electrically connected to the heating coil (223) and can protrude outward from the case (221). An external power source is electrically connected to the terminal (2273), so that the heating coil (223) can be heated when electricity is applied.

[0083] The fixed bracket (2274) protrudes from the housing (2272) and has an end that can be coupled to the case (221). Accordingly, the housing (2272) is fixedly coupled to the case (221) by the fixed bracket (2274), so that the thermostat (2271) can maintain the designed position.

[0084] The heating coil (223) can generate heat when electricity is applied. In an exemplary embodiment, the heating coil (223) may be provided as a coil that is heated by electrical resistance. In this case, the heat generated from the heating coil (223) can pass through the top plate (23) and heat the container containing the food by radiation or conduction. The case (221) can accommodate the heating coil (223) and an insulating pad (222) described below.

[0085] Fig. 5 is an exploded view of a portion of a heating unit according to an embodiment. In Fig. 5, the thermistor (227) is omitted. As illustrated in Fig. 5, the case (221) may include a cylindrical surface portion (2211) and a bottom surface portion (2212).

[0086] The bottom surface portion (2212) forms the lower surface of the case (221), is generally formed in a circular shape, and can accommodate a heating coil (223). The cylindrical surface portion (2211) surrounds the outer side of the bottom surface portion (2212), protrudes upward, and can be formed in a ring shape.

[0087] Due to this structure, the bottom surface (2212) and the cylindrical surface (2211) can form a space that can accommodate a heating coil (223) and an insulating pad (222).

[0088] The cylindrical surface (2211) may include a first surface that is bent from the edge of the bottom surface and a second surface that is bent from the first surface and placed laterally. At this time, a plurality of fastening holes (2212h) for fastening a ring-shaped insulating member may be formed along the circumferential direction of the second surface on the bottom of the second surface.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 5, the heating unit may include an insulating pad (222) and an insulating cover (226).

[0090] The insulating pad (222) is placed on the lower side of the heating coil (223), and the insulating pad (222) can be placed on the inner lower side of the case (221) of the heating unit (22), and can be formed of an insulating material. Accordingly, heat can be prevented from being transferred to the lower side when the heating coil (223) generates heat. In addition, the heating coil (223) can be placed on the upper side of the insulating pad (222).

[0091] The insulating cover (226) is arranged on the upper side of the case (221) and can prevent heat generated from the heating coil (223) from being transferred to the outside. The insulating cover (226) can be arranged in a ring shape on the upper edge of the heating unit (22). The insulating cover (226) can be formed of an insulating material, and the upper end of the insulating cover (226) can be provided to face the lower surface of the upper plate.

[0092] At this time, the upper surface of the insulation cover (226) and the lower surface of the upper plate may be in contact with each other or may be slightly spaced apart in the vertical direction depending on the design.

[0093] The insulation cover (226) can improve the heat efficiency of the cooktop by preventing the heat generated from the heating coil (223) from being transferred laterally to the cooktop and allowing it to be transferred upwardly to the cooktop.

[0094] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the heating coil (223) may be configured to be divided into, for example, an inner coil (224) and an outer coil (225). Accordingly, the amount of heat for heating the container (2) can be controlled and provided according to the combination of the on / off operations of the inner coil (224) and the outer coil (225).

[0095] In the embodiment, it is efficient for all heat generated from the heating coil (223) to pass through the top plate (23) and be transferred to the container placed on the top plate (23). However, the heat generated from the heating coil (223) may be transferred laterally to the cooktop (20). This will first be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0096] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a cooktop (20) without an insulating member (28). Fig. 7 is an enlarged view of the lower surface of the top plate (23). The top plate (23) can typically be made of a glass material with good heat resistance. Such a glass top plate (23) may be damaged due to cracks occurring during the manufacturing process.

[0097] In order to suppress the occurrence of cracks, a protrusion (231) may be formed on the upper plate (23). The upper plate (23) may be provided with a plurality of protrusions (231) spaced apart from each other on the lower surface facing the insulation cover (226).

[0098] In addition, forming such a protrusion (231) is easier to manufacture than processing the lower surface of the top plate (23) into a completely flat surface, and can be effective in reducing costs.

[0099] Meanwhile, the upper surface of the top plate (23) requires a circular print to guide the position of the heating coil (223) and a print of letters to guide other uses, and since it is the surface that the user sees, a protrusion (231) may not be formed for aesthetic reasons.

[0100] Referring to Fig. 7, a plurality of protrusions (231) are provided spaced apart from each other, and each protrusion (231) may be provided in a form aligned in the horizontal and vertical directions of the upper plate (23). For example, the protrusions (231) may be formed in a generally blunt cone shape rather than a sharp end.

[0101] Each protrusion (231) is arranged to be in contact with each other on the lower surface of the upper plate (23), but since it is formed in a cone shape, it can be spaced apart without being in contact with each other as it goes towards the end. Due to this structure, a gap (CL) through which air can flow can be formed between the plurality of protrusions (231).

[0102] Referring to Fig. 6, the upper surface of the insulating cover (226) of the heating element (22) and the lower surface of the top plate (23) of the cooktop (20) may be in contact with each other or may be slightly spaced apart in the vertical direction. At this time, a gap (CL) formed by a protrusion (231) may be created between the top plate (23) and the insulating cover (226).

[0103] Since the protrusion (231) has a cone shape and its cross-sectional area becomes smaller toward the end, the gap (CL) between the top plate (23) and the insulation cover (226) can become larger in inverse proportion toward the end of the protrusion (231), so that a space sufficient for air to flow can be formed.

[0104] When air flows through this gap (CL), heat can be transferred from the heating unit (22) to the outside of the cooktop (20) by convection. Since the lower part of the top plate (21) is placed on the outside of the heating unit (22), heat flowing from the heating unit (22) to the outside by convection in the lateral direction of the cooktop (20) can be transferred to the top plate (21).

[0105] That is, the lateral heat transfer of the cooktop (20) can be transferred to the top plate (21) surrounding the heating element (22). The top plate (21) can be formed of a metal material that is easy to roll to increase manufacturability.

[0106] A metal top plate (21) can be a very effective means of heat dissipation. Accordingly, the heat emitted laterally from the cooktop (20) is discharged to the outside from the metal top plate (21), and thus a significant amount of heat is not used to heat the container and may be released into the atmosphere.

[0107] This structure may deteriorate the performance of the cooktop (20) and the cooking appliance (1). Therefore, a structure is needed that can suppress the release into the atmosphere from other parts of the heating element (22) other than the top plate (23) so that the heating coil (223) is not used to heat the container.

[0108] The structure of a cooking appliance (1) according to an embodiment for this purpose is described in detail with reference to the drawings below.

[0109] Fig. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of a cooktop (20) according to an embodiment. The cooking appliance (1) may include an insulating member (28) disposed between a top plate (23) and an insulating cover (226) and having a shape corresponding to the insulating cover (226).

[0110] The insulating member (28) is arranged between the upper plate (23) and the insulating cover (226) and can fill the gap (CL) between the protrusions (231) formed on the lower surface of the upper plate (23). A gap (CL) is formed between the upper plate (23) and the insulating cover (226) due to the protrusions (231), and the insulating member (28) can fill this gap (CL) and block air from flowing through the gap (CL).

[0111] Fig. 9 is a drawing for explaining the heat transfer trend in the absence of an insulating member (28). In Fig. 9, the arrow indicates the direction of heat transfer.

[0112] In the absence of an insulating member (28), a gap (CL) may be created between the top plate (23) and the insulating cover (226) due to a protrusion (231), and the gap (CL) may be a space of sufficient size for air to flow.

[0113] Accordingly, the heat generated from the heating coil (223) can flow laterally to the insulation cover (226) and be transferred to the lower portion of the top plate (21) disposed on the outside of the insulation cover (226). Of course, since the insulation cover (226) has good insulation performance, lateral heat transfer through the insulation cover (226) can be suppressed, but heat transfer through the gap (CL) on the upper side of the insulation cover (226) can occur.

[0114] Convective heat transfer through these gaps (CL) can reduce the heating efficiency of the cooktop (20).

[0115] Fig. 10 is a drawing of Fig. 9 with an insulating member (28) added. The insulating member (28) can fill the gap (CL) between the upper plate (23) and the insulating cover (226). In particular, the insulating member (28) can completely fill the gap (CL) between a plurality of protrusions (231) formed on the lower surface of the upper plate (23).

[0116] Due to this structure, when the insulating member (28) is added, the gap (CL) between the top plate (23) and the insulating cover (226) disappears, and accordingly, convection of air through this gap (CL) is eliminated, and thus heat transfer by convection can be blocked.

[0117] In an embodiment, the insulating cover (226) may be arranged to surround the heating coil (223) at the edge of the case (221). The insulating cover (226) is arranged to surround the heating coil (223) to prevent heat generated from the heating coil (223) from being transferred laterally.

[0118] The insulating member (28) may be provided in a shape corresponding to the insulating cover (226). Accordingly, the heating coil (223) may be sealed laterally by the insulating cover (226) and the insulating member (28), and may be sealed upwardly by the top plate (23).

[0119] As described above, the insulating member (28) can fill the gap (CL) formed by the protrusion (231) on the lower surface of the top plate (23). Therefore, the insulating member (28) can effectively suppress the heat generated from the heating coil (223) from being transferred to the outside in the lateral direction of the case (221) by convection through the gap (CL) on the lower surface of the top plate (23).

[0120] The gap (CL) is formed by a plurality of protrusions (231) aligned in the horizontal and vertical directions. Consequently, the shape of the gap (CL) is three-dimensional and complex. A method for completely filling the complexly shaped gap (CL) is required.

[0121] One way to fill a complex-shaped gap (CL) is to provide a liquid insulating material (28) and harden it. That is, the insulating material (28) can be applied in a liquid state to fill the gap (CL) of the protrusion (231) and harden it.

[0122] The insulating material (28) can be applied to at least one of the upper surface of the insulating cover (226) or the lower surface of the upper plate (23) and can be cured after the upper plate (23) is placed on the insulating cover (226).

[0123] The liquid insulating material (28) can be applied to the upper surface of the insulating cover (226) and / or the lower surface of the top plate (23) by spraying, applying with a brush, etc. When applied to the upper surface of the insulating cover (226), the insulating material (28) can be easily applied to the correct position.

[0124] On the other hand, when applying to the lower surface of the top plate (23), there may be the inconvenience of having to apply to the top plate (23) so that it corresponds to the exact position and shape of the upper surface of the insulation cover (226). However, in this case, there is an advantage that it can be easy to fill the gap (CL) formed on the lower surface of the top plate (23).

[0125] Meanwhile, the insulating material (28) may be made of a thermosetting or ultraviolet-curable material. In order to quickly assemble the cooktop (20), it is necessary to ensure that the liquid insulating material (28) hardens quickly after the top plate (23) is placed on the insulating cover (226).

[0126] Therefore, it may be appropriate to manufacture the insulating member (28) with a thermosetting or ultraviolet-curable material and quickly cure the insulating member (28) with heat or ultraviolet light.

[0127] When using a liquid insulating material (28), the amount applied can be controlled, and thus the insulating material (28) can be provided on the cooktop (20) so thinly that it can fill the gap (CL). This structure prevents the entire cooktop (20) from becoming unnecessarily thick in the vertical direction, and thus the entire cooktop (20) can be manufactured slim.

[0128] Another way to fill a complex-shaped gap (CL) is to manufacture the insulating member (28) from a flexible material.

[0129] According to this, the insulating member (28) may be provided as a solid material covering the upper surface of the insulating cover (226). In addition, the insulating member (28) may be formed as a flexible material that can be deformed by the protrusion (231) to fill the gap (CL) formed by the protrusion (231).

[0130] When the insulating member (28) is placed on the upper surface of the insulating cover (226) and the upper plate (23) is mounted on the upper plate mounting portion (211), the flexible insulating member (28) is deformed by being pressed by the upper plate (23), and the insulating member (28) can completely fill the gap (CL) between the protrusions (231) by the deformation.

[0131] When the insulating member (28) is manufactured from a flexible solid material, the thickness of the insulating member (28) may be somewhat thicker than in the case of a liquid material. However, since the insulating member (28) can be detached and installed from the insulating cover (226) or the top plate (23), there is an advantage in that the cooktop (20) is easily assembled and the insulating member (28) can be replaced.

[0132] As illustrated in Fig. 8, the width (W1) of the insulating member (28) can be formed to be longer than the width (W2) of the insulating cover (226). In the case where the insulating member (28) is manufactured in a liquid state, this structure can be implemented by applying the insulating member (28) to the lower surface of the upper plate (23).

[0133] Of course, if the insulating member (28) is made of a solid flexible material, the width (W1) of the insulating member (28) can be easily shaped to be longer than the width (W2) of the insulating cover (226).

[0134] Due to this structure, the width (W1) of the insulating member (28) can be made sufficiently long to effectively suppress the occurrence of a defect in which a portion of the gap (CL) between the top plate (23) and the insulating cover (226) is not filled during the application or assembly process of the insulating member (28).

[0135] The insulating member (28) completely fills and seals the gap (CL) between the top plate (23) and the insulating cover (226), thereby more reliably blocking heat transfer by convection of air through the gap (CL).

[0136] The insulating member (28) may be formed of a material with high insulating properties and good heat resistance. As described above, the insulating member (28) may be formed of a material that is manufactured in a liquid state, applied, and hardened to become a solid, or a flexible material in a solid state.

[0137] At this time, the insulating member (28) can be formed of a material including at least one of Al2O3, SiO2, and TiO2, which are materials with high insulating properties and good heat resistance.

[0138] Fig. 11 is an exploded view of a cooktop (20) according to one embodiment. Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a cooktop (20) according to one embodiment. Fig. 13 is a view of Fig. 12 viewed from a different direction.

[0139] The insulating cover (226) is arranged on the upper side of the cylindrical surface (2211) and is provided in a ring shape, and the insulating member (28) can be provided in a ring shape corresponding to the insulating cover (226).

[0140] The insulating member (28) of the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 11 is manufactured in a liquid state and can be placed between the upper plate (23) and the insulating cover (226) as the cooktop (20) is assembled after being applied to at least one of the lower surface of the top plate (23) or the upper surface of the insulating cover (226).

[0141] The insulating member (28) may be provided in a number corresponding to the number of heating elements (22) and may be placed in each heating element (22). Referring to Fig. 11, the cooktop (20) may include a heating element (27). The heating element (27) is a device for heating food contained in a container placed on the upper side thereof or for maintaining the temperature of the food. Therefore, the heating element (27) may emit heat at a lower temperature than the heating element (22).

[0142] However, since the amount of heat released from the heating part (27) is much smaller than the amount of heat released from the heating part (22), the amount of lateral heat transfer between the heating part (27) and the top plate (21) may be significantly smaller than that of the heating part (22). In addition, since the amount of lateral heat transfer is small and cannot be considered a significant loss, an insulating cover (226) may not be placed on the heating part (27).

[0143] Therefore, when the insulating member (28) is placed on the heating part (27), the insulating effect is relatively small, the insulating cover (226) is not placed on the heating part (27), and considering the effort and cost of forming the insulating member (28), the insulating member (28) surrounding the heating part (27) may not be provided.

[0144] In the cooktop (20) of the embodiment, the heating section (22) is provided in multiple numbers, and the cutout section (212) may be provided with at least one integrated cutting section (2121) that integrates and accommodates adjacent heating sections (22).

[0145] The integrated cutting portion (2121) may be provided in the shape of a peanut or dumbbell, which is a shape in which circular, spaced-apart cutout portions (212) are integrated with each other. The integrated cutting portion (2121) may be formed by cutting a piece that forms the upper portion of the top plate (21) between the spaced-apart cutout portions (212).

[0146] If there is a piece of the top plate (21) that separates adjacent cutout portions (212), heat transfer from the heating portion (22) to this piece can occur and spread throughout the entire top plate (21).

[0147] In this structure, the amount of heat transferred from the heating element (22) directly through the top plate (23) to the container can be reduced, and the amount of heat released to the atmosphere through the top plate (21) can be increased.

[0148] That is, by forming an integrated cutting portion (2121) and removing a part of the piece of the top plate (21), the heat dissipation area of ​​the upper part of the top plate (21) can be reduced, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the cooktop (20).

[0149] A plurality of heating units (22) and insulating covers (226) can be arranged in one integrated cutting unit (2121). Accordingly, the number of insulating members (28) corresponding to the number of heating units (22) and insulating covers (226) can also be arranged in one integrated cutting unit (2121).

[0150] In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 11, two heating parts (22) and an insulating cover (226) are arranged in one integrated cutting part (2121), so two insulating members (28) can also be arranged in one integrated cutting part (2121).

[0151] The solid insulating member (28) can be provided to be detachable from the cooktop (20). That is, since the insulating member (28) is separated from other parts of the cooktop (20), the assembling ability of the cooktop (20) can be improved and the insulating member (28) can be easily replaced compared to the liquid insulating member (28).

[0152] However, when assembling the insulating member (28), the ease of assembly can be increased by ensuring that the insulating member (28) is positioned exactly corresponding to the insulating cover (226). The insulating member (28) manufactured in a solid state can be provided so as to be detachably attached to the case (221). This structure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0153] Fig. 14 is an exploded view of a cooktop (20) according to another embodiment. Fig. 15 is a view of Fig. 14 viewed from another direction. The case (221) and the insulation member (28) may each be provided with a fastening portion so that the insulation member (28) can be detachably attached to the case (221).

[0154] The case (221) may include a first fastening portion (2213) that protrudes outward from the cylindrical surface portion (2211) and is provided in a plurality of positions spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical surface portion (2211), and has a hole formed to which a coupling mechanism (500) is fastened.

[0155] In other words, the first fastening portion (2213) may be provided in multiple numbers protruding outward from the case (221) and spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the case (221), and a hole into which the coupling mechanism (500) is fastened may be formed.

[0156] The insulating member (28) may include a second fastening portion (281) that is provided in a plurality of portions that protrude outward and are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction, is provided at a position corresponding to the first fastening portion (2213), and has a hole formed to which a coupling mechanism (500) is fastened.

[0157] The cylindrical surface portion (2211) is formed in a ring shape, and a ring-shaped insulating cover (226) can be placed on the upper side of the cylindrical surface portion (2211). In addition, the insulating member (28) can be formed in a ring shape to correspond to the shape of the insulating cover (226).

[0158] Accordingly, the first fastening portions (2213) may be arranged in multiple positions spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the ring-shaped cylindrical surface portion (2211). The second fastening portions (281) may also be arranged in multiple positions spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the ring-shaped insulating cover (226).

[0159] Due to this structure, the first fastening part (2213) and the second fastening part (281) are connected to each other by a connecting mechanism (500) such as a screw, so that the insulating member (28) can be placed in the designed exact position on the upper side of the insulating cover (226).

[0160] In an embodiment, a first fastening portion (2213) may be formed in the case (221) and a second fastening portion (281) may be formed in the insulating member (28). Due to this structure, the first fastening portion (2213) and the second fastening portion (281) may be joined by a joining mechanism (500), so that the insulating member (28) may be positioned at an accurate position designed on the upper side of the insulating cover (226).

[0161] Accordingly, when assembling the cooktop (20), the insulation member (28) is separated from the upper side of the insulation cover (226), and when the assembly is completed, an assembly defect in which the insulation member (28) does not fill the gap (CL) between the top plate (23) and the insulation cover (226) can be effectively prevented.

[0162] 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. A heating part that heats the object; and Top plate placed on the upper side of the above heating part In a cooking appliance having a cooktop including: The above heating part, A heating coil that generates heat when electricity is applied; A case accommodating the above heating coil; and An insulating cover placed on the upper side of the case and preventing heat generated from the heating coil from being transferred to the outside. Including, The above top plate is provided with a plurality of protrusions spaced apart from each other on the lower surface facing the above insulation cover, Including an insulating member arranged between the top plate and the insulating cover, Cooking appliances.

2. In paragraph 1, The above case is, A bottom surface portion in which the above heating coil is accommodated; and A ring-shaped cylindrical surface portion that surrounds the outer side of the above-mentioned bottom surface portion and protrudes upward Including, The above insulation cover is placed on the upper side of the cylindrical surface and is provided in a ring shape. The above insulating member is provided in a ring shape corresponding to the above insulating cover. Cooking appliances.

3. In paragraph 1, The above insulating material is, It is provided to be applied in liquid form to fill the gap of the protrusion and harden. Cooking appliances.

4. In paragraph 3, The above insulating material is, Equipped with thermosetting or ultraviolet curable materials, Cooking appliances.

5. In paragraph 3, The above insulating material is, It is applied to at least one of the upper surface of the insulating cover or the lower surface of the top plate and is cured after the top plate is placed on the insulating cover. Cooking appliances.

6. In paragraph 1, The above insulating cover is arranged to surround the heating coil at the edge of the case, The above insulating member is provided with a shape corresponding to the above insulating cover, and suppresses the heat generated from the heating coil from being transferred to the outside in the lateral direction of the case through the gap in the lower surface of the top plate by convection. Cooking appliances.

7. In paragraph 2, The above insulating material is, It is provided with a solid material covering the upper surface of the above insulation cover. Cooking appliances.

8. In paragraph 7, The above insulating material is, formed of a flexible material deformable by the protrusion to fill the gap formed by the protrusion; Cooking appliances.

9. In paragraph 7, The above insulating material is provided so as to be detachable from the case. Cooking appliances.

10. In paragraph 9, The above case is, It includes a first fastening portion that protrudes outwardly from the cylindrical surface portion and is provided in a plurality of positions spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical surface portion, and in which a hole to which a coupling mechanism is fastened is formed. The above insulating material is, A second fastening part is provided in a plurality of outer protruding parts spaced apart from each other in a circumferential direction, is provided at a position corresponding to the first fastening part, and includes a hole formed in which a coupling mechanism is formed. Cooking appliances.

11. In paragraph 2, The width of the above insulating member is formed longer than the width of the above insulating cover. Cooking appliances.

12. In paragraph 1, The above insulating material is, Al 2 O 3 , SiO 2 , TiO 2 formed of a material containing at least one of the following substances: Cooking appliances.

13. A heating unit for heating the object; and Top plate placed on the upper side of the above heating part In a cooking appliance having a cooktop including: The above heating part, A heating coil that generates heat when electricity is applied; An insulating pad placed on the lower side of the above heating coil; A case accommodating the above heating coil and the above insulating pad; and Insulating cover arranged in a ring shape on the upper edge Including, The above top plate is provided with a plurality of protrusions spaced apart from each other on the lower surface facing the above insulation cover, The above cooking appliance, Including an insulating member arranged between the top plate and the insulating cover and having a shape corresponding to the insulating cover. Cooking appliances.

14. In paragraph 13, The above insulating material is, It is formed in a liquid state and applied to at least one of the upper surface of the insulating cover or the lower surface of the top plate, and is hardened after the top plate is placed on the insulating cover. Cooking appliances.

15. In paragraph 13, The above case is, It includes a first fastening portion that protrudes outwardly from the case and is provided in a plurality of positions spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the case, and in which a hole to which a coupling mechanism is fastened is formed. The above insulating material is, Including a second fastening portion which is provided in a plurality of outer protruding portions and spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction and which is provided at a position corresponding to the first fastening portion. Cooking appliances.

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