Filter unit, manufacturing method thereof, and cooking apparatus including filter unit

Abstract

This cooking apparatus comprises a plate that has an inlet formed to draw in air from and around a cooking region. Also, the cooking apparatus includes a chamber housing disposed below the plate and forming a chamber in which air can flow. In addition, the cooking apparatus includes a filter unit disposed in the chamber and provided to filter air that flows in through the inlet. The filter unit includes a frame including a plurality of cells and a deodorant accommodated inside the plurality of cells. The plurality of cells are stacked in a first direction of the frame and arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The length of each of the plurality of cells in the first direction is less than that in the second direction.

Description

Filter unit and method for manufacturing the same, and cooking appliance including the filter unit

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a filter unit having an improved structure and a method for manufacturing the same, and to a cooking appliance including a filter unit having an improved structure.

[0002] A cooking appliance is a device designed to heat and cook food or other food items. It can provide various cooking-related functions, such as heating, defrosting, drying, and sterilizing the food. Cooking appliances may include cooktops, which use electricity or gas to heat cooking containers containing food.

[0003] A gas cooktop is a gas range that cooks food by turning a lever to ignite gas from a small generator and then burning it.

[0004] An electric cooktop is an induction cooktop that uses electricity to generate an electromagnetic field in an internal coil, and uses the laws of electromagnetic induction to induce eddy currents in a cooking vessel, generating heat and using that heat to cook food.

[0005] Cooktops can generate contaminants such as oil mist, unburned gases, and odors during the cooking process. A hood can be installed to exhaust air containing these contaminants to the outside.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a cooking appliance having improved deodorizing performance of a filter unit.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a cooking appliance having an extended lifespan of a filter unit.

[0008] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0009] A cooking appliance according to the invention comprises a plate including a cooking region and an intake port formed to intake air around the cooking region. Furthermore, the appliance comprises a chamber housing disposed below the plate, the chamber housing forming a chamber through which air can flow. Furthermore, the appliance comprises a filter unit disposed in the chamber, the filter unit being configured to filter air introduced through the intake port. The filter unit comprises a frame including a plurality of cells and a deodorizer accommodated within the plurality of cells. The plurality of cells are stacked in a first direction of the frame and arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction. Each of the plurality of cells has a length along the first direction that is shorter than a length along the second direction.

[0010] A cooking appliance according to the invention comprises a plate including an intake port and a filter unit disposed on a lower side of the plate and configured to filter air introduced through the intake port. The filter unit comprises a frame including a plurality of cells, a first filter coupled to a front side of the frame, and a second filter coupled to a rear side of the frame. The plurality of cells are stacked in a first direction of the frame and arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction. Each of the plurality of cells has a length along the first direction that is shorter than a length along the second direction.

[0011] A method for manufacturing a filter unit according to the invention comprises: injection-molding a frame in which a plurality of cells are formed; inserting a nonwoven fabric during the injection-molding of the frame; joining the nonwoven fabric to the rear surface of the frame; filling each of the plurality of cells with a deodorant; and joining a mesh net to the front surface of the frame by heat-fusing. The filter unit is provided inside the cooking appliance to filter air drawn in from around the cooking appliance.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a state in which a plate is removed from a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 4 is a schematic exploded view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 5 illustrates an internal portion of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 6 illustrates an internal portion of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 10 is a front view of a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 12 is a front view of a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 13 is a front view of a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 14 is a front view of a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0027] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0028] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0029] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0030] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0031] The terms "part," "module," and "member" may be implemented in hardware or software. Depending on the embodiments, multiple "parts," "modules," or "members" may be implemented as a single component, or a single "part," "module," or "member" may include multiple components.

[0032] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0033] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0034] The terms "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0035] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0036] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0037] Meanwhile, the terms "front", "back", "left", "right", "upper", "lower", etc. used in the following description are defined based on the drawing, but the shape and position of each component are not limited by the above terms. For example, the front side may be defined as the +X side, and the rear side may be defined as the -X side. For example, based on the drawing, the right side may be defined as the +Y side, and the left side may be defined as the -Y side. For example, based on the drawing, the upper side may be defined as the +Z side, and the lower side may be defined as the -Z side.

[0038] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure with a plate removed. FIG. 4 is a schematic exploded view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] The cooking appliance (1) may include a cooktop (10). The cooktop (10) may be provided to cook food. The cooktop (10) may be provided to heat food.

[0041] The cooktop (10) may include a plate (11). For example, the plate (11) may have a roughly flat shape. For example, the plate (11) may include tempered glass such as ceramic glass.

[0042] The plate (11) may include a cooking area (11a). A cooking vessel may be placed on the cooking area (11a) to cook food. When food is cooked on the cooking area (11a), contaminants may be generated and mixed with the air surrounding the cooking area (11a).

[0043] The cooktop (10) may include a suction port (12). The suction port (12) may be formed in the plate (11). The suction port (12) may be provided to penetrate the plate (11). For example, the suction port (12) may be provided at approximately the center of the plate (11). The suction port (12) may be formed to suck in air around the cooking area (11a). The suction port (12) may suck in contaminants generated during the cooking process together with the air around the cooking area (11a). Here, the contaminants may include harmful gases generated during cooking, combustion gases, fine dust, oil mist, heat, and / or odors.

[0044] The cooktop (10) may include a user interface (14) provided on the plate (11). The user interface (14) may be provided to receive commands from a user. The user interface (14) may be provided to display various information of the cooking appliance (1). The user interface (14) may be provided as an area through which at least a portion of the display assembly (15) described below is transparent and displayed to the user.

[0045] The cooktop (10) may include a case (13). The case (13) may be provided below the plate (11). The case (13) may be coupled to the lower part of the plate (11).

[0046] The case (13) may include a shape with a substantially open upper portion. For example, the case (13) may include a bottom portion (13a) and a side portion (13b) extending upward from the bottom portion (13a).

[0047] The case (13) may be provided to accommodate various components constituting the cooktop (10). The case (13) may accommodate electrical components. The case (13) may accommodate a display assembly (15) to be described later. The case (13) may accommodate a heating unit (16) to be described later. The case (13) may accommodate a printed circuit board assembly (17) to be described later. The case (13) may include a fan (18) to be described later.

[0048] The cooktop (10) may include a display assembly (15). The display assembly (15) may be configured to implement a user interface (14). The display assembly (15) may be arranged to correspond to the user interface (14). For example, the display assembly (15) may be configured as a printed board assembly (PBA) including a display panel, a switching element, an integrated circuit element, etc., and a printed circuit board (PCB) on which these are installed.

[0049] The cooktop (10) may include a heating element (16). The heating element (16) may be arranged to generate heat for cooking. For example, the heating element (16) may include a coil (16a). A current whose magnitude changes over time may be applied to the coil (16a). As the current is applied to the coil (16a), a magnetic field may be formed around the coil (16a). As the current applied to the coil changes, the magnetic field formed around the coil (16a) may also change. An eddy current may flow according to the change in the magnetic field on the surface of the cooking vessel in contact with the plate (11), thereby heating the cooking vessel.

[0050] In the drawing, the cooktop (10) is depicted as an induction electric cooktop, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The type of cooktop (10) is not limited as long as it can heat a cooking vessel. For example, the cooktop (10) may be configured as a gas range, a highlighter, a hybrid, or an oven.

[0051] The cooktop (10) may include a printed board assembly (PBA) (17). The printed board assembly (17) may be provided to supply driving current to the heating unit (16). The printed board assembly (17) may be provided to implement a circuit for the operation of the heating unit (16). The printed board assembly (17) may include various components and / or circuits for supplying driving current to the heating unit (16).

[0052] The cooktop (10) may include a fan (18). The fan (18) may be provided for heat dissipation inside the case (13). The fan (18) may blow outside air to lower the temperature of the printed circuit board assembly (17) and / or the display assembly (15). The fan (18) may draw in outside air. The fan (18) may exhaust air flowing inside the case (13). The outside air introduced into the case (13) through the fan (18) may cool the inside of the case (13) and then be exhausted to the outside of the case (13).

[0053] A suction hole (19a) and a discharge hole (19b) may be formed in the case (13). For example, the suction hole (19a) may be formed in the bottom portion (13a) of the case (13). For example, the discharge hole (19b) may be formed in the side portion (13b) of the case (13). External air may be drawn into the case (13) through the suction hole (19a) by the blowing force of the fan (18) and then discharged to the outside of the case (13) through the discharge hole (19b). In the drawing, the suction hole (19a) and the discharge hole (19b) are illustrated as being formed in multiple numbers, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. There is no limitation on the number of each of the suction holes (19a) and the discharge holes (19b).

[0054] The cooking device (1) may include a hood (20). The hood (20) may be provided to allow air introduced through the intake port (12) to flow. The hood (20) may be provided to guide the air introduced through the intake port (12). The hood (20) may be provided to exhaust or circulate the air introduced through the intake port (12). The hood (20) may exhaust the air introduced through the intake port (12) to the outside of the space in which the cooking device (1) is installed (e.g., outdoors). The hood (20) may recirculate the air introduced through the intake port (12) back into the space in which the cooking device (1) is installed (e.g., indoors). In summary, the hood (20) may guide the air introduced through the intake port (12) to the outdoors or indoors.

[0055] The hood (20) may be placed under the plate (11). The hood (20) may be placed under at least a portion of the cooktop (10). The hood (20) may be placed under the bottom portion (13a) of the case (13). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the cooktop (10) and the hood (20) may be formed integrally.

[0056] By placing the hood (20) under the cooktop (10), the upper space where the cooking device (1) is installed can be secured. The upper portion of the cooking device (1) is provided as an empty space, so that the cooking space is secured and the cooking environment can be improved.

[0057] The hood (20) may include a chamber housing (30). The hood may include a duct (40).

[0058] The chamber housing (30) may be positioned on the lower side of the plate (11). The chamber housing (30) may be detachably coupled to the lower portion of at least a portion of the cooktop (10). For example, the chamber housing (30) may be detachably coupled to the bottom portion (13a) of the case (13).

[0059] The chamber housing (30) may be provided to receive air introduced through the intake port (12). The chamber housing (30) may be provided to form a chamber (31) through which air can flow. The chamber (31) may include a passage for guiding air into a space provided inside the chamber housing (30).

[0060] Various components may be placed in the chamber (31). For example, a first filter assembly (60) to be described later may be placed in the chamber (31). For example, a second filter assembly (70) to be described later may be placed in the chamber (31). For example, a fan device (50) to be described later may be placed in the chamber (31). For example, a tray (80) to be described later may be placed in the chamber (31).

[0061] The chamber housing (30) may be provided to connect the cooktop (10) and the duct (40). The chamber housing (30) may guide air sucked in through the intake port (12) to the duct (40). For example, the chamber housing (30) may include a chamber discharge port (35) through which air flows out from the chamber housing (30). The chamber discharge port (35) may be connected to the duct (40).

[0062] The duct (40) can receive air discharged from the chamber housing (30). The duct (40) can guide the air discharged from the chamber housing (30) to the outside or to a space where the cooking device (1) is installed. For example, one end of the duct (40) can be connected to the chamber discharge portion (35) of the chamber housing (30). For example, the other end of the duct (40) can be connected to the outdoors or indoors. Accordingly, the duct (40) can discharge the air sucked through the intake port (12) to the outdoors or recirculate it indoors.

[0063] Although the drawing depicts the chamber housing (30) and the duct (40) as separate components, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Depending on various factors such as the type of cooktop (10) and the installation space, the chamber housing (30) and the duct (40) may be provided as an integrated component.

[0064] The cooking appliance (1) may include a fan device (50). The fan device (50) may be disposed within the hood (20). Although the drawing illustrates the fan device (50) as being housed in the chamber housing (30), the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the fan device (50) may be housed in the duct (40). For example, the fan device (50) may be provided as a component of the hood (20).

[0065] The fan device (50) may include a fan (51). The fan (51) may be configured to force air flow. The fan (51) may generate suction force. Air may flow into the cooking appliance (1) through the suction port (12) by the suction force of the fan (51).

[0066] The fan device (50) may include a fan motor (53). The fan motor (53) may be arranged to drive a fan (51). The fan motor (53) may provide rotational force to the fan (51).

[0067] The fan device (50) may include a fan housing (52). The fan housing (52) may be provided to cover the fan (51) and the fan motor (53). The fan housing (52) may be provided to accommodate the fan (51) and the fan motor (53).

[0068] The cooking device (1) may include a first filter assembly (60). The first filter assembly (60) may be placed in the chamber (31). The first filter assembly (60) may be provided on the lower side of the suction port (12).

[0069] The first filter assembly (60) may include a first filter unit (61) and a first filter bracket (62) on which the first filter unit (61) is mounted.

[0070] The first filter unit (61) may be configured to filter air flowing in through the intake port (12). For example, the first filter unit (61) may include a grease filter for removing oil particles contained in the air. The first filter unit (61) may be formed with fine holes to allow air, excluding oil particles, to pass through.

[0071] The first filter unit (61) may be provided in multiple units. Each of the multiple first filter units (61) may be mounted on a first filter bracket (62). For example, each of the multiple first filter units (61) may be mounted on both sides of the first filter bracket (62). Although the drawing illustrates that the first filter unit (61) is provided in two units, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The number of the first filter units (61) may vary depending on the size and shape of the first filter unit (61) and the first filter bracket (62).

[0072] The first filter bracket (62) can have its upper surface open toward the suction port (12). Through this configuration, the first filter bracket (62) can guide air flowing in through the suction port (12) to the first filter unit (61).

[0073] The cooking appliance (1) may include a second filter assembly (70). The second filter assembly (70) may be placed in the chamber (31). The second filter assembly (70) may be placed downstream of the first filter assembly (60) along the direction of air flow.

[0074] The second filter assembly (70) may be provided on one side of the first filter assembly (60). Although only one second filter assembly (70) is illustrated in the drawing, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, a plurality of second filter assemblies (70) may be provided, and may be provided on both sides of the first filter assembly (60).

[0075] The second filter assembly (70) may be provided between the first filter assembly (60) and the fan device (50). Through this configuration, air drawn in through the intake port (12) may pass through the first filter assembly (60) and the second filter assembly (70) and be guided to the duct (40).

[0076] The second filter assembly (70) may include a second filter unit (100) and a second filter bracket (71) on which the second filter unit (100) is mounted. The second filter unit (100) and the second filter bracket (71) may be arranged approximately vertically with respect to the bottom surface of the chamber housing (30).

[0077] The second filter unit (100) may be provided to filter air that is drawn in through the intake port (12) and passes through the first filter unit (61). In other words, the second filter unit (100) may be provided to filter air drawn in from around the cooking appliance (1). For example, the second filter unit (100) may include a deodorizing filter for removing odor particles contained in the air.

[0078] The second filter unit (100) may be provided in multiple units. Each of the multiple second filter units (100) may be mounted on a second filter bracket (71). For example, the multiple second filter units (100) may be mounted side by side on one side of the second filter bracket (71). Although the drawing illustrates that the second filter unit (100) is provided in two units, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The number of the second filter units (100) may vary depending on the size and shape of the second filter unit (100) and the second filter bracket (71).

[0079] The cooking device (1) may include a tray (80). The tray (80) may accommodate foreign substances such as powder, crumbs, and water generated during cooking. The tray (80) may be disposed on the lower side of the first filter assembly (60). The tray (80) may be disposed inside the chamber housing (30). For example, the tray (80) may be mounted on the bottom surface inside the chamber housing (30). For example, the tray (80) may be provided as a component of the hood (20).

[0080] The tray (80) may include a user-gripable handle (81). For example, the user may pull the tray (80) out of the chamber housing (30) or insert the tray (80) into the chamber housing (30) while holding the handle (81). For example, the handle (81) may have a shape that protrudes toward the suction port (12).

[0081] FIG. 5 illustrates an internal portion of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 illustrates an internal portion of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] The cooking device (1) may include a cover (12a). The cover (12a) may be provided to cover or open the suction port (12). The cover (12a) may be provided to be movable to cover or open the suction port (12). The cover (12a) may be provided to be rotatable to cover or open the suction port (12).

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, an example of air flow will be described. The cover (12a) can open the intake port (12). Air can be introduced into the cooktop (10) through the intake port (12) opened by the cover (12a). The air introduced through the intake port (12) can flow to the hood (20). The air introduced through the intake port (12) can flow to the chamber housing (30). The air introduced into the chamber housing (30) can pass through the first filter assembly (60). The air that has passed through the first filter assembly (60) can pass through the second filter assembly (70). The air that has passed through the second filter assembly (70) can flow to the intake side (50a) of the fan device (50). Air drawn into the fan device (50) can be discharged through the discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50). The discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50) can be opened toward the chamber discharge port (35) of the chamber housing (30). The air discharged from the fan device (50) can be discharged from the chamber housing (30) through the chamber discharge port (35). The air discharged from the chamber housing (30) can flow into the duct (40, see FIGS. 1 to 3). The air drawn into the duct (40) can be discharged outdoors or circulated indoors.

[0084] Below, a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is described. The second filter described below may correspond to the first filter described in the claims. The third filter described below may correspond to the second filter described in the claims.

[0085] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the configuration of a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 10 is a front view of a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] The second filter unit (100) may include a frame (110). The front side (113) of the frame (110) may be arranged to face the first filter assembly (60, see FIGS. 4 to 7). The rear side (114) of the frame may be arranged to face the fan device (50, see FIGS. 4 to 7).

[0087] The front surface (113) of the frame (110) may be formed to be approximately flat. The rear surface (114) of the frame may include a parallel portion (114a) parallel to the front surface (113) and an inclined portion (114b) inclined with respect to the parallel portion (114a). Specifically, the rear surface (114) of the frame (110) may include an inclined portion (114b) formed to be inclined with respect to the second direction.

[0088] Due to this configuration, the second filter unit (100) can be positioned with a predetermined gap between the fan device (50, see FIGS. 4 to 7) and the inclined portion (114b). This makes it easy to mount the second filter unit (100) inside the chamber (31, see FIG. 4). In addition, air can be allowed to flow smoothly through the inclined portion (114b).

[0089] The frame (110) may include a plurality of cells (111) therein. At least some of the plurality of cells (111) may have the same shape as each other. For example, each of the plurality of cells (111) may have a hexagonal shape.

[0090] A plurality of cells (111) may be stacked in the first direction of the frame (110). For example, the plurality of cells (111) may be stacked in the vertical direction of the frame (110). In the drawing, the number of cells (111) stacked in the first direction of the frame (110) is specified, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. There is no limitation on the number of cells (111) stacked in the first direction of the frame (110).

[0091] A plurality of cells (111) may be arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction of the frame (110). For example, the plurality of cells (111) may be arranged in the left and right directions of the frame (110). In the drawing, the number of cells (111) arranged in the second direction is specified, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. There is no limitation on the number of cells (111) arranged in the second direction.

[0092] The length of each of the plurality of cells (111) along the first direction may correspond to the height of each of the plurality of cells (111). In other words, the length (H) of each of the plurality of cells (111) along the first direction may correspond to the distance between the upper and lower ends of each of the plurality of cells (111).

[0093] The length (W) of each of the plurality of cells (111) along the second direction may correspond to the width of each of the plurality of cells (111). In other words, the length (W) of each of the plurality of cells (111) along the second direction may correspond to the distance at which both ends of each of the plurality of cells (111) are spaced from each other.

[0094] Each of the plurality of cells (111) may have a length (H) in the first direction that is shorter than a length (W) in the second direction. That is, each of the plurality of cells (111) may have a height that is shorter than a width. Preferably, each of the plurality of cells (111) may have a ratio of a length (H) in the first direction to a length (W) in the second direction that is between 1:1.9 and 1:8.7. Preferably, the length (H) of each of the plurality of cells (111) in the first direction may be 6 mm to 15 mm. Preferably, the length (W) of each of the plurality of cells (111) in the second direction may be 25 mm to 70 mm.

[0095] Each of the plurality of cells (111) may form an opening (112) through which air may pass. Through this configuration, air that flows in from the intake port (12, see FIG. 7) and passes through the first filter assembly (60, see FIG. 7) may be filtered while passing through the second filter unit (100). The opening (112) may extend from the front (113) of the frame (110) to the rear (114) of the frame (110). At this time, the length of the opening (112) extending from the front (113) of the frame (110) to the rear (114) of the frame (110) may be 25 mm to 35 mm. In other words, the width of the opening (112) may be 25 mm to 35 mm.

[0096] The second filter unit (100) may include a deodorizer (120). The deodorizer (120) may be designed to remove odors from the air. For example, the deodorizer (120) may include activated carbon, zeolite, alumina, silica, or MOF (Metal Organic Frameworks).

[0097] The deodorant (120) may be provided in the form of multiple particles. Each of the multiple particles may have a diameter of 3 mm or less. Preferably, each of the multiple particles may have a diameter of 1.5 mm to 3 mm.

[0098] The deodorant (120) may be accommodated within a plurality of cells (111). For example, the deodorant (120) may be accommodated in each of the plurality of cells (111) in the form of a plurality of particles. Through this configuration, the deodorant (120) can remove odors from the air when air drawn in through the intake port (12) passes through the plurality of cells (111).

[0099] The air passing through the plurality of cells (111) may be concentrated and flow toward the central portion of each of the plurality of cells (111). Therefore, when a deodorant (120) is accommodated in each of the plurality of cells (111), most of the air passing through the plurality of cells (111) may come into contact with the deodorant (120) located at the central portion of each of the plurality of cells (111). On the other hand, the deodorant (120) located at the upper and lower portions of each of the plurality of cells (111) may come into contact with a relatively small amount of air. As a result, the odor removal in the air passing through the plurality of cells (111) may be mainly performed by the deodorant (120) located at the central portion of each of the plurality of cells (111), and may be hardly performed by the deodorant (120) located at the upper and lower portions of each of the plurality of cells (111). This may result in wasted deodorant (120), and may shorten the lifespan of the second filter unit (100).

[0100] According to the concept of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of cells (111) may have a length (H) along a first direction shorter than a length (W) along a second direction. That is, each of the plurality of cells (111) may have a height shorter than a width. Through this configuration, air passing through the plurality of cells (111) can be prevented from concentrating and flowing toward the center of each of the plurality of cells (111). That is, air passing through the plurality of cells (111) can flow relatively uniformly within each of the plurality of cells (111). Accordingly, the deodorant (120) accommodated in each of the plurality of cells (111) can relatively uniformly remove odors from the air regardless of its location. As a result, wasted deodorant (120) can be reduced, and the lifespan of the second filter unit (100) can be extended.

[0101] The second filter unit (100) may include a first filter (130).

[0102] The first filter (130) may be coupled to the front surface (113) of the frame (110). For example, the first filter (130) may be coupled to the front surface (113) of the frame (110) by heat fusion. However, the coupling method is not limited thereto.

[0103] The first filter (130) may be provided to allow air to pass through. The first filter (130) may prevent the deodorant (120) contained within the plurality of cells (111) from leaking out from the frame (110). For example, the first filter (130) may include a mesh net (131). The mesh net (131) may allow air to pass through a plurality of ventilation holes formed therein, but may not allow the deodorant (120) in particle form to pass through. Each of the plurality of ventilation holes may be provided in an approximately square shape. In this case, the length of one side of each of the plurality of ventilation holes may be 0.292 mm or less. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0104] The second filter unit (100) may include a second filter (140).

[0105] The second filter (140) may be coupled to the rear surface (114) of the frame (110). For example, the second filter (140) may be coupled to the rear surface (114) of the frame (110) by insert injection. However, the coupling method is not limited thereto.

[0106] The second filter (140) may be provided to allow air to pass through. The second filter (140) may prevent the deodorant (120) contained within the plurality of cells (111) from leaking out from the frame (110). For example, the second filter (140) may include a non-woven fabric (141). The non-woven fabric (141) is breathable, allowing air to pass through, but not allowing the deodorant (120) in particle form to pass through. The non-woven fabric (141) may be provided to have a thickness of 50 gsm (grams per square meter) or less. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0107] According to the concept of the present disclosure, a mesh net (131) may be combined on the front side (113) of the frame (110), and a non-woven fabric (141) may be combined on the back side (114) of the frame (110). The mesh net (131) may form a smoother flow of air flowing into the second filter unit (100) through a plurality of ventilation holes. The non-woven fabric (141) may more effectively prevent the leakage of the deodorant (120) since it does not have any ventilation holes.

[0108] At least one of the first filter (130) and the second filter (140) may include a flame-retardant material. Through this configuration, even if heat is generated from the heating unit (16, see FIG. 4), the first filter (130) and the second filter (140) may not be easily damaged.

[0109] Below, a method for manufacturing a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is briefly described.

[0110] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0111] First, a frame (110) in which a plurality of cells (111) are formed can be injection-molded (1010). The plurality of cells (111) can be stacked in a first direction. The plurality of cells (111) can be arranged in a second direction. Each of the plurality of cells (111) can have a length (H) in the first direction that is shorter than a length (W) in the second direction.

[0112] By inserting a nonwoven fabric (141) during the injection molding (1010) of the frame (110), the nonwoven fabric (141) can be joined to the rear surface (114) of the frame (110) (1020). By inserting the nonwoven fabric (141) to the rear surface (114) of the frame (110), the frame (110) and the nonwoven fabric (141) can be joined as one piece.

[0113] Thereafter, a deodorant (120) may be filled into each of the plurality of cells (111) (1030). The deodorant (120) may be designed to remove odors from the air. The deodorant (120) may be provided in the form of a plurality of particles and filled into each of the plurality of cells (111).

[0114] Afterwards, the mesh net (131) can be joined to the front (113) of the frame (110) by heat fusion.

[0115] Below, other embodiments of the present disclosure are described. Except for the multiple cells, the other configurations are the same as those of the aforementioned embodiments, so redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0116] FIG. 12 is a front view of a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 12, each of the plurality of cells (211) may have a rectangular shape. Each of the plurality of cells (211) may be stacked in a first direction of the frame (110). Each of the plurality of cells (211) may be arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction of the frame (110). Each of the plurality of cells (211) may have a length (H) in the first direction shorter than a length (W) in the second direction. Preferably, each of the plurality of cells (211) may have a ratio of a length (H) in the first direction to a length (W) in the second direction of 1:1.9 to 1:8.7.

[0118] FIG. 13 is a front view of a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 13, the plurality of cells (111) may include a plurality of first cells (111a) and a plurality of second cells (111b). Each of the plurality of first cells (111a) may form a first opening (112a). Each of the plurality of second cells (111b) may form a second opening (112b).

[0120] The first opening (112a) may have a size larger than that of the second opening (112b). Specifically, the first opening (112a) may have a height larger than that of the second opening (112b). In this case, the first opening (112a) may have a width equal to that of the second opening (112b).

[0121] In other words, the length (H1) of each of the plurality of first cells (111a) along the first direction may be longer than the length (H2) of each of the plurality of second cells (111b) along the first direction. In this case, the length (W1) of each of the plurality of first cells (111a) along the second direction may be equal to the length (W2) of each of the plurality of second cells (111b) along the second direction.

[0122] The positions at which the plurality of first cells (111a) and the plurality of second cells (111b) are arranged in the frame (110) may be different from each other. That is, the size of the opening (112) formed by the plurality of cells (111) may vary depending on the positions at which the plurality of cells (111) are arranged in the frame (110).

[0123] Air passing through the opening (112) may experience resistance due to the pressure difference between the front and rear ends of the opening (112). At this time, the resistance experienced by the air may vary depending on the size of the opening (112). As the size of the resistance experienced by the air increases, the amount of air passing through the opening (112) may decrease. For example, when the size of the opening (112) is large, the resistance experienced by the air may be smaller than when the size of the opening (112) is small, and relatively more air may flow.

[0124] A plurality of first cells (111a) may be arranged in the central portion of the frame (110). A plurality of second cells (111b) may be arranged in the upper and lower portions of the frame (110). Through this configuration, air passing through the central portion of the frame (110) may experience less resistance than air passing through the upper and lower portions of the frame (110).

[0125] The air flowing into the frame (110) may be more concentrated in the upper and lower parts of the frame (110) than in the central part of the frame (110). Due to the difference in the size of the opening (112), the resistance experienced by the air flowing into the upper and lower parts of the frame (110) may be greater than the resistance experienced by the air flowing into the central part of the frame (110). Through this, the amount of air passing through the upper and lower parts of the frame (110) may be reduced, and the amount of air passing through the central part of the frame (110) may be increased. As a result, the air flowing in concentrated in the upper and lower parts of the frame (110) may flow uniformly through the entire area of ​​the frame (110).

[0126] FIG. 14 is a front view of a filter unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0127] A plurality of first cells (111a) may be arranged at the upper and lower portions of the frame (110). A plurality of second cells (111b) may be arranged at the central portion of the frame (110). Through this configuration, air passing through the upper and lower portions of the frame (110) may experience less resistance than air passing through the central portion of the frame (110).

[0128] The air flowing into the frame (110) may be more concentrated in the central portion than in the upper and lower portions of the frame (110). Due to the difference in the size of the opening (112), the resistance experienced by the air flowing into the central portion of the frame (110) may be greater than the resistance experienced by the air flowing into the upper and lower portions of the frame (110). Through this, the amount of air passing through the central portion of the frame (110) may be reduced, and the amount of air passing through the upper and lower portions of the frame (110) may be increased. As a result, the air flowing in concentrated in the central portion of the frame (110) may flow uniformly through the entire area of ​​the frame (110).

[0129] A cooking appliance (1) according to the invention includes a plate (11) including a cooking area (11a) and an intake port (12) formed to intake air around the cooking area (11a). Furthermore, the cooking appliance includes a chamber housing (30) disposed on a lower side of the plate (11) and forming a chamber (31) through which air can flow. Furthermore, the cooking appliance includes a second filter unit (100) disposed in the chamber (31) and configured to filter air introduced through the intake port (12). The second filter unit (100) includes a frame (110) including a plurality of cells (111) and a deodorant (120) accommodated within the plurality of cells (111). The plurality of cells (111) are stacked in a first direction of the frame (110) and arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction. Each of the plurality of cells (111) has a length (H) along the first direction that is shorter than a length (W) along the second direction.

[0130] Each of the above plurality of cells (111) can form an opening (112) through which air can pass.

[0131] The plurality of cells (111) may include a plurality of first cells (111a) and a plurality of second cells (111b). Each of the plurality of first cells (111a) may form a first opening (112a), and each of the plurality of second cells (111b) may form a second opening (112b). The first opening (112a) may have a size larger than the size of the second opening (112b).

[0132] The length (H1) of each of the plurality of first cells (111a) along the first direction may be longer than the length (H2) of each of the plurality of second cells (111b) along the first direction.

[0133] The plurality of first cells (111a) may be arranged in the central portion of the frame (110), and the plurality of second cells (111b) may be arranged at the upper and lower portions of the frame (110).

[0134] The plurality of first cells (111a) may be arranged at the upper and lower portions of the frame (110), and the plurality of second cells (111b) may be arranged at the central portion of the frame (110).

[0135] Each of the plurality of cells (111) may have a ratio of a length (H) along the first direction and a length (W) along the second direction between 1:1.9 and 1:8.7.

[0136] Each of the plurality of cells (111) may have a length (H) of 6 mm to 15 mm along the first direction, and a length (W) of 25 mm to 70 mm along the second direction.

[0137] The second filter unit (100) may further include a first filter (130) coupled to the front (113) of the frame (110) and a second filter (140) coupled to the rear (114) of the frame (110).

[0138] At least one of the first filter (130) and the second filter (140) may include a material having flame retardancy.

[0139] The first filter (130) may include a mesh net (131), and the second filter (140) may include a non-woven fabric (141).

[0140] Each of the above plurality of cells (111) may have a hexagonal shape.

[0141] Each of the above plurality of cells (211) may have a rectangular shape.

[0142] The rear surface (114) of the frame (110) may include a parallel portion (114a) parallel to the front surface (113) of the frame (110); and an inclined portion (114b) inclined with respect to the parallel portion (114a).

[0143] The above-mentioned inclined portion (114b) can be formed to be inclined with respect to the second direction.

[0144] A cooking appliance (1) according to the invention includes a plate (11) including an intake port (12) and a second filter unit (100) arranged on a lower side of the plate (11) and configured to filter air flowing in through the intake port (12). The second filter unit (100) includes a frame (110) including a plurality of cells (111), a first filter (130) coupled to a front side (113) of the frame (110), and a second filter (140) coupled to a rear side (114) of the frame (110). The plurality of cells (111) are stacked in a first direction of the frame (110) and arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction. Each of the plurality of cells (111) has a length (H) along the first direction that is shorter than a length (W) along the second direction.

[0145] The second filter unit (100) further includes a deodorizer (120) for removing odors in the air flowing in through the suction port (12), and the deodorizer (120) is provided in the form of a plurality of particles, and the diameter of each of the plurality of particles may be 1.5 mm to 3 mm.

[0146] The above deodorant (120) can be accommodated in each of the plurality of cells (111).

[0147] Each of the plurality of cells (111) may have a ratio of a length (H) along the first direction to a length (W) along the second direction of 1:1.9 to 1:8.7.

[0148] A method for manufacturing a second filter unit (100) according to the invention includes injection molding a frame (110) in which a plurality of cells (111) are formed (1010), inserting a nonwoven fabric (141) during the injection molding of the frame (110), joining the nonwoven fabric (141) to the rear surface (114) of the frame (110) (1020), filling each of the plurality of cells (111) with a deodorant (120) (1030), and joining a mesh net (131) to the front surface (113) of the frame (110) by a heat-fusion method (1040). The second filter unit (100) is provided inside the cooking device (1) to filter air sucked in from around the cooking device (1).

[0149] According to the invention, the performance of a filter unit can be improved by increasing the contact rate between air flow and a deodorizing member.

[0150] According to the invention, the life of the filter unit can be extended by minimizing wasted deodorizing material.

[0151] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0152] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. A plate including a cooking area and an intake formed to suck air around the cooking area; A chamber housing positioned on the lower side of the above plate and forming a chamber through which air can flow; and A filter unit is disposed in the chamber and is configured to filter air flowing in through the intake port; The above filter unit, a frame comprising a plurality of cells; and Containing a deodorant accommodated within the plurality of cells, The above multiple cells are, The above frame is laminated in the first direction and arranged in the second direction intersecting the first direction, A cooking device wherein each of the plurality of cells has a length along the first direction that is shorter than a length along the second direction.

2. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance in which each of the above plurality of cells forms an opening through which air can pass.

3. In paragraph 2, The above plurality of cells includes a plurality of first cells and a plurality of second cells, Each of the plurality of first cells forms a first opening, Each of the plurality of second cells forms a second opening, A cooking appliance wherein the first opening has a size larger than that of the second opening.

4. In paragraph 3, A cooking device wherein the length of each of the plurality of first cells in the first direction is longer than the length of each of the plurality of second cells in the first direction.

5. In paragraph 3, The above plurality of first cells are arranged in the central portion of the frame, A cooking appliance wherein the plurality of second cells are arranged at the upper and lower portions of the frame.

6. In paragraph 3, The above plurality of first cells are arranged at the upper and lower portions of the frame, A cooking appliance wherein the plurality of second cells are arranged in the central portion of the frame.

7. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance wherein each of the plurality of cells has a ratio of a length along the first direction to a length along the second direction of 1:1.9 to 1:8.

7.

8. In paragraph 1, Each of the above multiple cells, The length in the first direction is 6 mm to 15 mm, A cooking appliance having a length of 25 mm to 70 mm in the second direction.

9. In paragraph 1, The above filter unit, A first filter coupled to the front of the above frame, A cooking appliance further comprising a second filter coupled to the rear of the frame.

10. In paragraph 9, A cooking appliance wherein at least one of the first filter and the second filter comprises a material having flame retardancy.

11. In paragraph 9, The above first filter comprises a mesh net, A cooking appliance wherein the second filter comprises a non-woven fabric.

12. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance wherein each of the above plurality of cells has a hexagonal shape.

13. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance wherein each of the above plurality of cells has a rectangular shape.

14. In paragraph 1, The rear of the above frame is, a parallel portion parallel to the front surface of the above frame; and A cooking appliance comprising a slanted portion with respect to the above parallel portion.

15. In paragraph 14, A cooking appliance in which the above-mentioned inclined portion is formed to be inclined with respect to the second direction.

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