Cooking apparatus and method of controlling cooking apparatus

Abstract

This cooking apparatus comprises: a cooking plate including a suction port, a first cooking area provided on a first side with respect to the suction port, and a second cooking area provided on a second side opposite to the first side with respect to the suction port; a first cover which is movable between a first position covering the suction port and a second position opening the suction port, and is adjacent to the first cooking area; a second cover which is movable between a third position covering the suction port and a fourth position opening the suction port, and is adjacent to the second cooking area; a driving device for moving the first cover and the second cover; a hood disposed below the cooking plate and including a fan configured to suction air on the cooking plate into the suction port; and a control unit for controlling the driving device such that the first cover at the first position moves to the second position on the basis of a cooking container having been placed in the first cooking area, and controlling the driving device such that the second cover moves to the fourth position on the basis of the cooking container having been placed in the second cooking area.

Description

Cooking appliances and methods for controlling cooking appliances

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cooking appliance including a hood and a method for controlling the cooking appliance.

[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] The present disclosure can provide a cooking appliance and a control method for the cooking appliance capable of controlling the suction area of ​​an intake port for sucking air on a cooking plate.

[0007] 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.

[0008] A cooking appliance according to the invention may include a cooking plate including a suction port, a first cooking region provided on a first side with respect to the suction port, and a second cooking region provided on a second side opposite the first side with respect to the suction port; a first cover movable between a first position covering the suction port and a second position opening the suction port, the first cover being adjacent to the first cooking region; a second cover movable between a third position covering the suction port and a fourth position opening the suction port, the second cover being adjacent to the second cooking region; a driving device that moves the first cover and the second cover; a hood disposed below the cooking plate and including a fan configured to draw air on the cooking plate into the suction port; and a control unit that controls the driving device to move the first cover from the first position to the second position based on a cooking vessel being placed in the first cooking region, and to move the second cover to the fourth position based on a cooking vessel being placed in the second cooking region.

[0009] A control method for a cooking appliance according to the invention comprises: a cooking plate including a suction port, a first cooking area provided on a first side with respect to the suction port, and a second cooking area provided on a second side opposite the first side with respect to the suction port; a first cover movable between a first position covering the suction port and a second position opening the suction port and adjacent to the first cooking area; a second cover movable between a third position covering the suction port and a fourth position opening the suction port and adjacent to the second cooking area; and a fan disposed below the cooking plate and configured to draw air on the cooking plate into the suction port, wherein the control method may include: moving the first cover from the first position to the second position based on a cooking vessel being placed in the first cooking area; and moving the first cover from the third position to the fourth position based on a cooking vessel being placed in the second cooking area.

[0010] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, the suction area of ​​a suction port for sucking air on a cooking plate can be adjusted to effectively suck up substances generated during a cooking process.

[0011] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, the rotation speed of the fan can be controlled according to the amount of material generated during the cooking process, thereby reducing the energy required when using the cooking appliance.

[0012] 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.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates a state in which a cooking plate is removed from a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4 is a schematic exploded view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 5 illustrates an internal portion of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 6 illustrates an internal portion of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 8 illustrates a control block diagram of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 9 illustrates the operation of a plurality of covers of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIGS. 10, 11 and 12 illustrate the operation of a plurality of covers of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is placed in a cooking area according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a process in which multiple covers and fans of a cooking appliance operate based on the level of contamination detected by a gas sensor when a cooking vessel is placed in a cooking area according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 14 illustrates the operation of multiple covers based on the contamination level detected by the gas sensor when a cooking vessel is placed in a cooking area according to one embodiment.

[0025] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0026] Fig. 16 illustrates an internal portion of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0028] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 19 illustrates the operation of multiple covers of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is placed in a cooking area according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 20 illustrates the operation of multiple covers based on the contamination level detected by the gas sensor when a cooking vessel is placed in a cooking area according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 21 illustrates the operation of a bulkhead of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0032] 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.

[0033] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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).

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0045] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 illustrates a state in which a cooking plate is removed from a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is a schematic exploded view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0046] 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.

[0047] The cooktop (10) may include a cooking plate (11) on which a cooking vessel may be placed. For example, the cooking plate (11) may include a substantially flat plate shape. For example, the cooking plate (11) may include a tempered glass such as ceramic glass. The cooking plate (11) may have a cooking area (ca) on which a cooking vessel may be placed. For example, the cooking plate (11) may include a first cooking area (ca1) provided on a first side (-Y side) based on the intake port (12), and a second cooking area (ca2) provided on a second side (+Y side) opposite to the first side.

[0048] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and cooking areas may be provided in various locations. For example, the second cooking area (ca2) may be provided on the first side, and the first cooking area (ca1) may be provided on the second side.

[0049] A cooking appliance (1) may include a plurality of covers (100). The plurality of covers (100) may be provided to cover or open the suction port (12). The plurality of covers (100) may be provided to be movable to cover or open the suction port (12). The plurality of covers (100) may be provided to be rotatable to cover or open the suction port (12).

[0050] The plurality of covers (100) may include a first cover (101) and / or a second cover (102). The first cover (101) may be positioned adjacent to the first cooking area (ca1). The second cover (102) may be positioned adjacent to the second cooking area (ca2).

[0051] The cooktop (10) may include a suction port (12). The suction port (12) may be formed in the cooking plate (11). The suction port (12) may be provided to penetrate the cooking plate (11). For example, the suction port (12) may be formed at approximately the center of the cooking plate (11). The suction port (12) may suck in air around the cooktop (10). The suction port (12) may suck in air containing contaminants generated during the cooking process. Here, the contaminants may include harmful gases, combustion gases, fine dust, oil mist, heat, and / or odors generated during cooking.

[0052] The cooktop (10) may include a user interface device (14, see FIG. 8) provided on the cooking plate (11). The input interface device (14b, see FIG. 8) may be provided to receive commands from a user. The output interface device (14a) may be provided to display various information of the cooking appliance (1). The output interface device (14a) 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.

[0053] The cooktop (10) may include a case (13). The case (13) may be provided below the cooking plate (11). The case (13) may be coupled to the lower part of the cooking plate (11).

[0054] 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).

[0055] 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 device (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.

[0056] The cooktop (10) may include a display assembly (15). The display assembly (15) may be configured to implement an output interface device (14a). The display assembly (15) may be arranged to correspond to the output interface device (14a). For example, the display assembly (15) may be configured as a printed board assembly (PBA) including a display panel, switching elements, integrated circuit elements, etc., and a printed circuit board (PCB) on which these are installed.

[0057] The cooktop (10) may include a heating device (16). The heating device (16) may be arranged to heat the cooking plate (11). The heating device (16) may be arranged below the cooking plate (11) with respect to the cooking area of ​​the cooking plate (11). The heating device (16) may include a coil (16a).

[0058] A current whose magnitude changes over time can be applied to the coil (16a). As the current is applied to the coil (16a), a magnetic field can be formed around the coil (16a). As the current applied to the coil changes, the magnetic field formed around the coil (16a) can also change. An eddy current can flow according to the change in the magnetic field on the surface of the cooking vessel in contact with the cooking plate (11), thereby heating the cooking vessel.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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 device (16). The printed board assembly (17) may be provided to implement a circuit for the operation of the heating device (16). The printed board assembly (17) may include various components and / or circuits for supplying driving current to the heating device (16).

[0061] The heating device (16) may be provided at the bottom of the cooking plate (11) with respect to the cooking area (ca). For example, the heating device (16) may be provided at the bottom of the cooking area (ca) of the cooking plate (11).

[0062] The printed circuit board assembly (17) may include a control unit (110, see FIG. 8) and / or a communication unit (120, see FIG. 8) which will be described later.

[0063] 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).

[0064] For example, 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).

[0065] 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 a space (e.g., indoors) in which the cooking device (1) is installed. The hood (20) may recirculate the air introduced through the intake port (12) back into the space (e.g., indoors) in which the cooking device (1) is installed. In summary, the hood (20) may guide the air introduced through the intake port (12) to the outside or indoors. As will be described later, at least one filter (61 and / or 71) may be provided inside the hood (20), and air flowing through the hood (20) may be filtered by passing through at least one filter (61 and / or 71). Air passing through at least one filter (61 and / or 71) may be discharged to the outdoors or introduced into the indoors by the hood (20).

[0066] The hood (20) may be placed under the cooking 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] The hood (20) may include a chamber housing (30). The chamber housing (30) may be positioned below the cooking plate (11). The chamber housing (30) may be detachably coupled to at least a portion of the lower portion of the cooktop (10). For example, the chamber housing (30) may be detachably coupled to the bottom portion (13a) of the case (13).

[0069] 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). As will be described later, air introduced through the intake port (12) may be guided by the frame (210) and flow into the chamber housing (30).

[0070] Various components may be placed in the chamber (31). For example, at least one filter (61 and / or 71) 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).

[0071] As another example, a gas sensor (90) may be placed in the chamber (31). In one embodiment, the gas sensor (90) may be installed inside the chamber housing (30). The gas sensor (90) may be installed inside the chamber housing (30) to measure the level of contamination of the air inside the chamber housing (30).

[0072] 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 at least one outlet port (35, see FIG. 4) through which air flows out from the chamber housing (30). At least one outlet port (35) may be connected to the duct (40).

[0073] The hood (20) may include a duct (40). The duct (40) may receive air discharged from the chamber housing (30). The duct (40) may guide the air discharged from the chamber housing (30) to the outside or to a space in which the cooking device (1) is installed. For example, one end of the duct (40) may be connected to at least one outlet (35) of the chamber housing (30). For example, the other end of the duct (40) may be connected to the outdoors or indoors. Accordingly, the duct (40) may discharge air that is drawn in through the intake port (12) and then filtered through at least one filter (61 and / or 71) to the outdoors or recirculate it indoors.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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).

[0076] 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 device (1) through the suction port (12) by the suction force of the fan (51). The fan (51) may be configured to suck air on the cooking plate (11) through the suction port (12) and discharge it through at least one discharge port (35).

[0077] 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).

[0078] 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).

[0079] The cooking appliance (1) may include at least one filter (61 and / or 71).

[0080] The cooking appliance (1) may include a first filter (61). The cooking appliance (1) may include a first filter bracket (62) on which the first filter (61) is mounted. The first filter (61) may be provided to filter air sucked in through the intake port (12). The first filter (61) and the first filter bracket (62) may be disposed inside the hood (20). For example, the first filter (61) and the first filter bracket (62) may be disposed in the chamber (31). For example, the first filter bracket (62) may be detachably coupled to the frame (210).

[0081] The cooking device (1) may include a filter device (70). The filter device (70) may be accommodated in the chamber housing (30). The filter device (70) may include a second filter (71).

[0082] The filter device (70) may include a second filter bracket (72) on which a second filter (71) is mounted. The second filter (71) may be configured to filter air passing through the first filter (61). The second filter (71) may be disposed downstream of the first filter (61) along the direction of air flow. The second filter (71) and the second filter bracket (72) may be disposed inside the hood (20). For example, the second filter (71) and the second filter bracket (72) may be disposed in the chamber (31). For example, the second filter bracket (72) may be detachably coupled to the chamber housing (30).

[0083] For example, at least one of the first filter (61) or the second filter (71) may be a grease filter for removing oil particles contained in the air. For example, at least one of the first filter (61) or the second filter (71) may be a deodorizing filter for removing odor particles contained in the air.

[0084] Meanwhile, the first filter (61) and the first filter bracket (62) may be referred to as a first filter assembly. For example, the first filter assembly may be provided as a component of the hood (20). The second filter (71) and the second filter bracket (72) may be referred to as a second filter assembly. For example, the second filter assembly may be provided as a component of the hood (20).

[0085] 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 at the lower portion of the first filter assembly. 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).

[0086] For example, 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).

[0087] FIG. 5 illustrates an internal portion of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 illustrates an internal portion of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, an example of air flow will be described. A plurality of covers (100) can open the intake ports (12). Air can be introduced into the cooktop (10) through the intake ports (12) opened by the plurality of covers (100). The air introduced through the intake ports (12) can flow to the hood (20). The air introduced through the intake ports (12) can flow to the chamber housing (30). For example, the air introduced through the intake ports (12) can be guided by the frame (210) and flow to the chamber housing (30). One side of the frame (210) can be communicated with the intake ports (12), and the other side of the frame (210) can be communicated with the chamber housing (30). The air introduced into the chamber housing (30) can pass through the first filter (61). Air passing through the first filter (61) can pass through the second filter (71). The air passing through the second filter (71) can flow to the suction side (54) of the fan device (50). The air drawn into the fan device (50) can be discharged through the discharge side (55) of the fan device (50). The discharge side (55) of the fan device (50) can be opened toward the discharge port (35) of the chamber housing (30). The air discharged from the fan device (50) can flow from the chamber housing (30) through the discharge port (35). The air drawn 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.

[0089] The cooking device (1) may include a driving device (200). The driving device (200) may be configured to generate driving force.

[0090] For example, the driving force generated by the driving device (200) can be transmitted to a plurality of covers (100). The driving device (200) can be arranged to move the plurality of covers (100). The driving device (200) can be arranged to rotate the plurality of covers (100). Accordingly, the plurality of covers (100) can operate to cover the suction port (12) or open the suction port (12).

[0091] At least a portion of the driving device (200) may be disposed inside the cooktop (10), and another portion of the driving device (200) may be disposed inside the hood (20). For example, at least a portion of the driving device (200) may be disposed inside the case (13), and another portion of the driving device (200) may be disposed inside the chamber housing (30). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the driving device (200) may be provided in various locations as long as it can drive a plurality of covers (100).

[0092] The driving device (200) may include a frame (210). The frame (210) may be provided to guide air introduced through the intake port (12) to the hood (20). The frame (210) may form a flow path (210f) for guiding air introduced through the intake port (12) to the hood (20). The flow path (210f) may be provided inside the cooktop (10) (see FIG. 7). The flow path (210f) may be provided to be partitioned from the internal space (13c) of the case (13). As a result, air flowing along the flow path (210f) may not be introduced into the internal space (13c) of the case (13). Contaminants included in the air may be prevented from penetrating into the internal space (13c) of the case (13).

[0093] Figure 8 illustrates a control block diagram of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0094] A cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment may include a user interface (14), a gas sensor (90), a fan motor (53) that provides driving force to a fan (51), a driving device (200) that generates driving force, a communication unit (120) and / or a control unit (110).

[0095] The user interface (14) may include an output interface device (14a) and / or an input interface device (14b).

[0096] The output interface device (14a) can transmit various information related to the operation of the cooking appliance (1) to the user by generating sensory information.

[0097] For example, the output interface device (14a) can transmit information related to cooking temperature, remaining cooking time, and rotation speed setting of the fan (51) to the user.

[0098] Information regarding the operation of the cooking appliance (1) can be output via a screen, indicator, voice, etc. The output interface device (14a) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0099] The input interface device (14b) can convert sensory information received from the user into an electrical signal.

[0100] The input interface device (14b) may include a power button, an operation button, a cooking temperature setting button, a cooking time setting button, and a fan (51) rotation speed setting button. The input interface device (14b) may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0101] A gas sensor (90) is installed inside the chamber housing (30) and can measure the level of contamination of air flowing into the inside of the chamber housing (30).

[0102] The gas sensor (90) may include various sensors capable of detecting pollutants in the air.

[0103] For example, the gas sensor (90) may include a TVOC sensor (Total Voltatile Organic Compounds sensor) or a VOC sensor (Voltatile Organic Compounds sensor).

[0104] TVOC sensors can detect various pollutants present in the air and measure the level of pollution corresponding to the amount of pollutants.

[0105] The gas sensor (90) can transmit data related to the level of air pollution to the control unit (110).

[0106] The driving device (200) can provide driving force to the plurality of covers (100). The driving device (200) can include a plurality of driving motors that generate driving force corresponding to each of the plurality of covers (100) to move each of the plurality of covers (100) to a predetermined position. For example, the driving device (200) can be provided with a motor that generates driving force to move a first cover (101) to a predetermined position and a motor that generates driving force to move a second cover (102) to a predetermined position. By controlling the driving device (200) by the control unit (110), the plurality of covers (100) can move to a predetermined position.

[0107] The driving device (200) may include a driving motor that generates a driving force to move the bulkhead (83). By controlling the driving device (200) by the control unit (110), the bulkhead (83) can be moved to a predetermined position.

[0108] The fan motor (53) can provide driving force to the fan (51). The fan motor (53) can include a motor whose rotation speed can be controlled. For example, the fan motor (53) can be a BLDC motor. The control unit (110) can control the rotation speed of the fan (51) by controlling the fan motor (53).

[0109] The heating device (16) may include various devices for heating a cooking vessel placed in the cooking area (ca).

[0110] The heating device (16) may include, for example, a coil (16a) and a driving circuit for driving the coil (16a). The control unit (110) may operate the heating device (16) by controlling the driving circuit. For example, the control unit (110) may control the driving circuit so that a driving current is applied to the coil (16a), thereby causing the heating device (16) to perform a heating operation.

[0111] A driving circuit for driving a coil (16a) may include a current sensor for detecting a current applied to the coil (16a). Current data collected by the current sensor may be transmitted to a control unit (110).

[0112] The cooking device (1) may include a communication unit (120) for communicating with an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance) via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0113] The communication unit (120) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0114] The communication unit (120) can transmit data to an external device or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication unit (120) can establish communication with a server, a user device, and / or other home appliances, and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0115] To this end, the communication unit (120) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication unit (120) can include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with the external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These different types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0116] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0117] The remote communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of remote communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0118] In one embodiment, the communication unit (120) can communicate with external devices such as a server, a user device, and other home appliances via a surrounding access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the cooking appliance (1), other home appliances, and / or user devices are connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The cooking appliance (1), other home appliances, and / or user devices can be connected to the server via the wide area network (WAN).

[0119] The control unit (110) can process user input received from the input interface device (14b).

[0120] The control unit (110) can process data collected from various sensors (e.g., a gas sensor (90), a current sensor for measuring the current applied to the coil (16a)).

[0121] The control unit (110) can control various components of the cooking appliance (1) (e.g., user interface device (14), fan motor (53), heating device (16), communication unit (120)).

[0122] For example, the control unit (110) can operate the heating device (16) in response to receiving a user input to start the heating operation of the heating device (16) through the input interface device (14b).

[0123] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the rotation speed of the fan (51) based on processing data collected from various sensors (e.g., a gas sensor (90), a current sensor for measuring the current applied to the coil (16a)).

[0124] Controlling the fan (51) by the control unit (110) may include controlling the fan motor (53) by the control unit (110).

[0125] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) based on processing data collected from various sensors (e.g., a gas sensor (90), a current sensor for measuring current applied to the coil (16a)).

[0126] The control unit (110) may include hardware such as a CPU, Micom, or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit (110) may include at least one memory (112) that stores data in the form of a program and an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the cooking appliance (1), and at least one processor (111) that performs the operations described above and the operations to be described below using the data stored in the at least one memory (112). The memory (112) and the processor (111) may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor (111) may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory (112) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory (112) and the processor (111) may be implemented as a single chip.

[0127] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can determine whether a cooking vessel is placed in the cooking area (ca) based on current data collected by a current sensor for detecting the current applied to the coil (16a).

[0128] To this end, the memory (112) may store an algorithm for detecting a cooking vessel. The algorithm for detecting a cooking vessel may include an algorithm capable of determining whether a cooking vessel is placed in the cooking area (ca) based on current data collected by a current sensor for detecting the current applied to the coil (16a).

[0129] The control unit (110) can apply a test current to the coil (16a) based on a user input received through the input interface device (14b), and can detect whether a cooking container is placed in the cooking area (ca) through a container detection process before operating the cooking area (ca).

[0130] FIG. 9 illustrates the operation of a plurality of covers of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0131] The first cover (101) can move between a first position (P1) covering the suction port (12) and a second position (P2) opening the suction port (12).

[0132] The second cover (102) can move between a third position (P3) covering the suction port (12) and a fourth position (P4) opening the suction port (12).

[0133] The suction port (12) can be fully covered depending on the positions of the first cover (101) and the second cover (102). For example, the suction port (12) can be fully covered when the first cover (101) moves to the first position (P1) and the second cover (102) moves to the third position (P3).

[0134] The suction port (12) may be partially opened depending on the positions of the first cover (101) and the second cover (102). For example, the suction port (12) may be partially opened when the first cover (101) moves to the second position (P2) and the second cover (102) moves to the third position (P3), or when the first cover (101) moves to the first position (P1) and the second cover (102) moves to the fourth position (P4).

[0135] The suction port (12) can be fully opened depending on the positions of the first cover (101) and the second cover (102). For example, the suction port (12) can be fully opened when the first cover (101) moves to the second position (P2) and the second cover (102) moves to the fourth position (P4).

[0136] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) between a first position (P1) and a second position (P2).

[0137] For example, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2). As another example, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) from the second position (P2) to the first position (P1).

[0138] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the drive unit (200) to move the second cover (102) between a third position (P3) and a fourth position (P4).

[0139] For example, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the second cover (102) from the third position (P3) to the fourth position (P4). As another example, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the second cover (102) from the fourth position (P4) to the third position (P3).

[0140] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) and the second cover (102) simultaneously.

[0141] For example, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) so that the first cover (101) at the first position (P1) moves to the second position (P2) and at the same time the second cover (102) at the third position (P3) moves to the fourth position (P4).

[0142] As another example, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) at the second position (P2) to the first position (P1) and at the same time move the second cover (102) at the fourth position (P4) to the third position (P3).

[0143] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to sequentially move the first cover (101) and the second cover (102).

[0144] For example, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) at the first position (P1) to the second position (P2), and then control the driving device (200) to move the second cover (102) at the third position (P3) to the fourth position (P4).

[0145] For another example, the control unit (110) may control the driving device (200) to move the second cover (102) at the third position (P3) to the fourth position (P4), and then control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) at the first position (P1) to the second position (P2).

[0146] For another example, the control unit (110) may control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) at the second position (P2) to the first position (P1), and then control the driving device (200) to move the second cover (102) at the fourth position (P4) to the third position (P3).

[0147] For another example, the control unit (110) may control the driving device (200) to move the second cover (102) at the fourth position (P4) to the third position (P3), and then control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) at the second position (P2) to the first position (P4).

[0148] Figures 10, 11 and 12 illustrate the operation of multiple covers when a cooking vessel is placed in a cooking area according to one embodiment.

[0149] The cooking device (1) can control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) of the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) based on the cooking container being placed in the first cooking area (ca1).

[0150] For example, referring to FIG. 10, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) at the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) based on the fact that a cooking vessel is placed in the first cooking area (ca1) and no cooking vessel is placed in the second cooking area (ca2). In this case, a portion of the suction port (12) can be opened.

[0151] The cooking device (1) can control the driving device (200) to move the second cover (102) of the third position (P3) to the fourth position (P2) based on the cooking container being placed in the second cooking area (ca2).

[0152] For example, referring to FIG. 11, the control unit (110) may control the driving device (200) to move the second cover (102) at the third position (P3) to the fourth position (P4) based on the fact that a cooking vessel is placed in the second cooking area (ca2) and no cooking vessel is placed in the first cooking area (ca1). In this case, the suction port (12) may be partially opened.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 12, in one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) at the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) and the second cover (102) at the third position (P3) to the fourth position (P4) based on the cooking containers being placed in the first cooking area (ca1) and the second cooking area (ca2). In this case, the suction port (12) can be fully opened.

[0154] However, the control unit (110) according to the present disclosure is not limited to controlling the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) and the second cover (102).

[0155] The control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move some of the covers (100) among the plurality of covers (100) based on a user input received through the input interface device (14b) even if no cooking container is placed in the cooking area (ca).

[0156] For example, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) between the first position (P1) and the second position (P2) through an input signal received from the input interface device (14b).

[0157] As another example, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the second cover (102) between the third position (P3) and the fourth position (P4) through an input signal received from the input interface device (14b).

[0158] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of multiple covers and fans of a cooking appliance based on the level of contamination detected by a gas sensor when a cooking vessel is placed in a cooking area according to one embodiment. FIG. 14 illustrates the operation of multiple covers based on the level of contamination detected by a gas sensor when a cooking vessel is placed in a cooking area according to one embodiment.

[0159] As described above, the cooking appliance (1) can control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) of the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) based on the cooking vessel being placed in the first cooking area (ca1) (1000)

[0160] The cooking device (1) can control the rotation speed of the fan (51) to a first rotation speed based on the placement of the cooking vessel in the first cooking area (ca1) (1010). The first rotation speed may be a rotation speed of the fan (51) that can sufficiently suck in air on the cooking plate (11) when the first cover (101) is in the second position (P2) and the second cover (102) is in the third position (P3).

[0161] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the cooking appliance (1) can control the driving device (200) to move the second cover (102) to the fourth position (P4) (1040) based on the contamination level detected by the gas sensor (90) exceeding the reference contamination level (Yes of 1030) even if no cooking vessel is placed in the second cooking area (ca2) (No of 1020). In this case, the suction port (12) can be fully opened.

[0162] The cooking appliance (1) can control the rotation speed of the fan (51) to a second rotation speed based on the contamination level detected by the gas sensor (90) exceeding the standard contamination level (example of 1030). The second rotation speed may be greater than the first rotation speed. The second rotation speed may be a rotation speed of the fan (51) that can sufficiently suck in air on the cooking plate (11) when the first cover (101) is in the second position (P2) and the second cover (102) is in the fourth position (P4).

[0163] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the second cover (102) at the fourth position (P4) to the third position (P3) when the cooking vessel is not placed in the second cooking area (ca2) and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor (90) falls below the reference contamination level.

[0164] For example, when a cooking vessel is placed in the first cooking area (ca1), the first cover (101) is in the second position (P1), and the second cover (102) is in the fourth position (P4), the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the second cover (102) in the fourth position (P4) to the third position (P3) based on the fact that the cooking vessel is not placed in the second cooking area (ca2) and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor (90) is less than the reference contamination level.

[0165] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the rotation speed of the fan (51) to the first rotation speed when no cooking vessel is placed in the second cooking area (ca2) and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor (90) falls below the standard contamination level.

[0166] For example, when a cooking vessel is placed in the first cooking area (ca1), the first cover (101) is in the second position (P1), and the second cover (102) is in the fourth position (P4), the control unit (110) can control the rotation speed of the fan (51) to a first rotation speed lower than the second rotation speed based on the fact that the cooking vessel is not placed in the second cooking area (ca2) and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor (90) is lower than the reference contamination level.

[0167] The amount of air on the cooking plate that must be sucked in during the cooking process in some of the multiple cooking areas may be relatively less than the amount of air on the cooking plate that must be sucked in during the cooking process in all cooking areas.

[0168] Therefore, in terms of energy consumption, it is necessary to operate the fan at a relatively lower rotation speed in some cooking areas among multiple cooking areas during cooking operations than in all cooking areas during cooking operations.

[0169] However, in some cooking areas, when the fan (51) operates at a relatively low rotation speed during the cooking process, if the intake ports are fully opened, the air flow velocity is low and the air on the cooking plate cannot be sufficiently sucked in.

[0170] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to individually move a plurality of covers according to the cooking area where the cooking container is placed and control the rotation speed of the fan to reduce unnecessary energy consumption.

[0171] According to the present disclosure, a plurality of covers can be moved based on the level of contamination detected by a gas sensor, and the rotation speed of the fan can be adjusted to efficiently absorb contaminants generated during a cooking process.

[0172] Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. Fig. 16 illustrates an internal portion of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. Fig. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0173] Referring to FIGS. 15 to 17, the chamber housing (30) may be provided to connect the cooktop (10) with the first duct (40a) and the second duct (40b). The chamber housing (30) may guide air sucked through the intake port (12) to the first duct (40a) and the second duct (40b). For example, at least one exhaust port (35) may include a first exhaust port (35a, see FIG. 16) and a second exhaust port (35b, see FIG. 16) through which air flows out from the chamber housing (30). The first exhaust port (35a) may be connected to the first duct (40a). The second exhaust port (35b) may be connected to the second duct (40b).

[0174] The duct (40) may include a first duct (40a) and a second duct (40b). The first duct (40a) and the second duct (40b) may receive air discharged from the chamber housing (30). The first duct (40a) and the second duct (40b) may 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, the first duct (40a) may be connected to a first outlet (35a) of the chamber housing (30), and the second duct (40b) may be connected to a second outlet (35b) of the chamber housing (30). For example, the other ends of the first duct (40a) and the second duct (40b) may be connected to the outdoors or indoors. In this way, the first duct (40a) and the second duct (40b) can discharge air that has been sucked in through the intake port (12) and then filtered through at least one filter (61 and / or 71) to the outdoors or recirculate it indoors.

[0175] Although the drawing depicts the chamber housing (30) and the first duct (40a) and the second duct (40b) 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 first duct (40a) and the second duct (40b) may be provided as an integrated component.

[0176] The fan device (50) may include a first fan device (50a) and a second fan device (50b). The first fan device (50a) and the second fan device (50b) may be placed inside the hood (20).

[0177] For example, the first fan device (50a) may be disposed inside the hood (20) corresponding to the first cooking area (ca1), and the second fan device (50a) may be disposed inside the hood (20) corresponding to the second cooking area (ca1). Although the drawing illustrates that the first fan device (50a) and the second fan device (50b) are housed in the chamber housing (30), the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first fan device (50a) may be housed in the first duct (40a), and the second fan device (50b) may be housed in the second duct (40b).

[0178] The first fan device (50a) may include a first fan (51a). The first fan (51a) may be configured to draw air on the cooking plate (11) through the intake port (12) and discharge it through the first exhaust port (35a). The first fan (51a) may be provided below the first cooking area (ca1). For example, the first fan (51a) may be placed inside a hood (20) corresponding to the first cooking area (ca1).

[0179] The second fan device (50b) may include a second fan (51b). The second fan (51b) may be configured to draw air on the cooking plate (11) through the intake port (12) and discharge it through the second exhaust port (35b). The second fan (51b) may be provided below the second cooking area (ca2). For example, the second fan (51b) may be placed inside the hood (20) corresponding to the second cooking area (ca2).

[0180] The first fan device (50a) may include a first fan motor (53a). The first fan motor (53a) may be configured to drive the first fan (51a). The first fan motor (53a) may provide rotational force to the first fan (51a).

[0181] The second fan device (50b) may include a second fan motor (53b). The second fan motor (53b) may be configured to drive the second fan (51b). The second fan motor (53b) may provide rotational force to the second fan (51b).

[0182] The first fan device (50a) may include a first fan housing (52a). The first fan housing (52a) may be provided to cover the first fan (51a) and the first fan motor (53a). The first fan housing (52a) may be provided to accommodate the first fan (51a) and the first fan motor (53a).

[0183] The second fan device (50b) may include a second fan housing (52b). The second fan housing (52b) may be provided to cover the second fan (51b) and the second fan motor (53b). The second fan housing (52b) may be provided to accommodate the second fan (51b) and the second fan motor (53b).

[0184] A plurality of covers (100) can open the suction ports (12). Air can be introduced into the cooktop (10) through the suction ports (12) opened by the plurality of covers (100). Air introduced through the suction ports (12) can flow to the hood (20). Air introduced through the suction ports (12) can flow to the chamber housing (30). For example, air introduced through the suction ports (12) can be guided by the frame (210) and flow to the chamber housing (30). One side of the frame (210) can be communicated with the suction ports (12), and the other side of the frame (210) can be communicated with the chamber housing (30). Air introduced into the chamber housing (30) can pass through the first filter (61). Air that has passed through the first filter (61) can pass through the second filter (71). Air passing through the second filter (71) can flow to the suction side (54a) of the first fan device (50a) and the suction side (54b) of the second fan device (50b).

[0185] Air drawn into the first fan device (50a) can be discharged through the discharge side (55a) of the first fan device (50a). The discharge side (55a) of the first fan device (50a) can be opened toward the first discharge port (35a) of the chamber housing (30). The air discharged from the first fan device (50a) can be discharged from the chamber housing (30) through the first discharge port (35a). The air discharged from the chamber housing (30) through the first discharge port (35a) can flow into the first duct (40a). The air drawn into the first duct (40a) can be discharged outdoors or circulated indoors.

[0186] The air drawn into the second fan device (50b) can be discharged through the discharge side (55b) of the second fan device (50b). The discharge side (55b) of the second fan device (50b) can be opened toward the second discharge port (35b) of the chamber housing (30). The air discharged from the second fan device (50b) can be discharged from the chamber housing (30) through the second discharge port (35b). The air discharged from the chamber housing (30) through the second discharge port (35b) can flow into the second duct (40b). The air drawn into the second duct (40b) can be discharged outdoors or circulated indoors.

[0187] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the rotation speed of the first fan (51a) to a first rotation speed based on the cooking vessel being placed in the first cooking area (ca1).

[0188] For example, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) of the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) based on the cooking vessel being placed in the first cooking area (ca1), and can control the rotation speed of the first fan (51a) to the first rotation speed.

[0189] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may control the rotation speed of the first fan (51a) to a first rotation speed based on the placement of a cooking vessel in the first cooking area (ca1), and may control the rotation speeds of the first fan (51a) and the second fan (51b) to a second rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed based on the contamination level detected by the gas sensor (90) exceeding the reference contamination level.

[0190] For example, the control unit (110) controls the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) of the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) based on the fact that a cooking vessel is placed in the first cooking area (ca1), and controls the rotation speed of the first fan (51) to the first rotation speed, and then controls the rotation speeds of the first fan (51a) and the second fan (51b) to the second rotation speed based on the fact that the contamination level detected by the gas sensor (90) exceeds the standard contamination level.

[0191] According to the present disclosure, by controlling the rotation speed of a fan provided under each cooking area, contaminants generated during the cooking process can be efficiently sucked up.

[0192] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0193] The first cooking area (ca1) may include a first sub-cooking area (ca11) and / or a second sub-cooking area (ca12).

[0194] The first sub-cooking area (ca11) may be provided at the rear and left sides with respect to the cooking plate (11). The second sub-cooking area (ca12) may be provided at the front and left sides with respect to the cooking plate (11).

[0195] The second cooking area (ca2) may include a third sub-cooking area (ca21) and / or a fourth sub-cooking area (ca22).

[0196] The third sub-cooking area (ca21) may be provided on the rear and right sides with respect to the cooking plate (11). The fourth sub-cooking area (ca22) may be provided on the front and right sides with respect to the cooking plate (11).

[0197] A cooking vessel can be placed in each of the first sub-cooking area (ca11), the second sub-cooking area (ca12), the third sub-cooking area (ca21), and the fourth sub-cooking area (ca22).

[0198] The location of the sub-cooking area according to the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the sub-cooking area may be provided at various locations where the cooking vessel can be placed.

[0199] The first cover (101) may include a first sub-cover (101a) and / or a second sub-cover (101b). The first sub-cover (101a) may be positioned adjacent to the first sub-cooking area (ca11). The second sub-cover (101b) may be positioned adjacent to the second sub-cooking area (ca12).

[0200] The second cover (102) may include a third sub-cover (102a) and / or a fourth sub-cover (102b). The third sub-cover (102a) may be positioned adjacent to the third sub-cooking area (ca21). The fourth sub-cover (102b) may be positioned adjacent to the fourth sub-cooking area (ca22).

[0201] The driving device (200) can provide driving force to the plurality of covers (100). The driving device (200) can include a plurality of driving motors that generate driving force corresponding to each of the plurality of covers (100) to move each of the plurality of covers (100) to a predetermined position. For example, the driving device (200) can include a motor that generates driving force to move a first sub-cover (101a) to a predetermined position, a motor that generates driving force to move a second sub-cover (101b) to a predetermined position, a motor that generates driving force to move a third sub-cover (102a) to a predetermined position, and / or a motor that generates driving force to move a fourth sub-cover (102b) to a predetermined position. By controlling the driving device (200) by the control unit (110), the plurality of covers (100) can move to a predetermined position.

[0202] The first sub-cover (101a) and the second sub-cover (101b) can move between a first position (P1) that covers the suction port (12) and a second position (P2) that opens the suction port (12).

[0203] The third cover (102a) and the fourth cover (102b) can move between a third position (P3) covering the suction port (12) and a fourth position (P4) opening the suction port (12).

[0204] The suction port (12) can be fully covered. For example, referring to FIG. 18, when the first sub-cover (101a) and the second sub-cover (101b) are in the first position (P1) and the third sub-cover (102a) and the fourth sub-cover (102b) are in the third position (P3), the suction port (12) can be fully covered.

[0205] The suction port (12) may be partially open. For example, referring to FIG. 19, when the first sub-cover (101a) is in the second position (P2), the second sub-cover (101b) is in the first position (P1), and the third sub-cover (102a) and the fourth sub-cover (102b) are in the third position (P3), the suction port (12) may be partially open.

[0206] The suction port (12) can be fully opened. Referring to Fig. 20, when the first sub-cover (101a) and the second sub-cover (101b) are in the second position (P2), and the third sub-cover (102a) and the fourth sub-cover (102b) are in the fourth position (P4), the suction port (12) can be partially opened.

[0207] FIG. 19 illustrates the operation of multiple covers of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is placed in a cooking area according to one embodiment.

[0208] In various embodiments, the control unit (110) can control the drive unit (200) to move a sub-cover adjacent to a sub-cooking area where a cooking vessel is placed.

[0209] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the first sub-cover (101a) at the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) based on the cooking vessel being placed in the first sub-cooking area (ca11).

[0210] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the second sub-cover (101b) in the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) based on the cooking vessel being placed in the second sub-cooking area (ca12).

[0211] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the third sub-cover (102a) of the third position (P3) to the fourth position () based on the cooking vessel being placed in the third sub-cooking area (ca21).

[0212] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the fourth sub-cover (102b) of the third position (P3) to the fourth position (P4) based on the cooking vessel being placed in the fourth sub-cooking area (ca22).

[0213] FIG. 20 illustrates the operation of multiple covers based on the contamination level detected by the gas sensor when a cooking vessel is placed in a cooking area according to one embodiment.

[0214] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the second sub-cover (101b) to the second position (P2) based on the first sub-cover (101a) being at the second position (P2) and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor (90) exceeding the reference contamination level, even if no cooking vessel is placed in the second sub-cooking area (ca12).

[0215] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the second cover (102) to the fourth position (P4) based on the first sub-cover (101a) being at the second position (P2) and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor (90) exceeding the reference contamination level, even if no cooking vessel is placed in the second cooking area (ca2).

[0216] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the third sub-cover (102a) to the fourth position (P4) based on the first sub-cover (101a) being at the second position (P2) and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor (90) exceeding the reference contamination level, even if no cooking vessel is placed in the third sub-cooking area (ca21).

[0217] FIG. 21 illustrates the operation of a bulkhead of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0218] The cooking device (1) may include a partition wall (83). The partition wall (83) may be movable between the inside of the hood (20) and the outside of the hood (20). The driving device (200) may include a driving motor that generates a driving force to move the partition wall (83). The control unit (110) controls the driving device (200), thereby causing the partition wall (83) to move to a predetermined position.

[0219] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the drive unit (200) to move the partition (83) from the inside of the hood (20) to the outside of the hood (20) based on whether a cooking vessel is placed in the first cooking area (ca1) or the second cooking area (ca2).

[0220] For example, the control unit (110) can control the driving device (200) to move the first cover (101) of the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) based on the cooking vessel being placed in the first cooking area (ca1), and then control the driving device (200) to move the partition wall (83) from the inside of the hood (20) to the outside of the hood (20). Thereafter, the control unit (110) can control the rotation speed of the fan (51) to the first rotation speed.

[0221] As another example, the control unit (110) may control the driving device (200) to move the second cover (102) of the third position (P3) to the fourth position (P4) based on the cooking vessel being placed in the second cooking area (ca2), and then control the driving device (200) to move the partition wall (83) from the inside of the hood (20) to the outside of the hood (20). Thereafter, the control unit (110) may control the rotation speed of the fan (51) to the first rotation speed.

[0222] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the drive unit (200) to move the partition (83) from the outside of the hood (20) to the inside of the hood (20) based on the cooking vessel being placed in both the first cooking area (ca1) and the second cooking area (ca2).

[0223] For example, the control unit (110) may control the driving device (200) to move the partition (83) from the inside of the hood (20) to the outside of the hood (20) based on whether a cooking vessel is placed in the first cooking area (ca1) or the second cooking area (ca2), and then the control unit (110) may control the driving device (200) to move the partition (83) from the outside of the hood (20) to the inside of the hood (20) based on whether a cooking vessel is placed in both the first cooking area (ca1) and the second cooking area (ca2). Thereafter, the control unit (110) may control the rotation speed of the fan (51) to the second rotation speed.

[0224] According to the present disclosure, when a cooking vessel is placed in some of the plurality of cooking areas, contaminants generated when cooking food in the cooking vessel placed in some of the cooking areas can be effectively absorbed.

[0225] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cooking appliance may include a cooking plate including a suction port, a first cooking region provided on a first side with respect to the suction port, and a second cooking region provided on a second side opposite the first side with respect to the suction port; a first cover movable between a first position covering the suction port and a second position opening the suction port, the first cover being adjacent to the first cooking region; a second cover movable between a third position covering the suction port and a fourth position opening the suction port, the second cover being adjacent to the second cooking region; a driving device that moves the first cover and the second cover; a hood disposed below the cooking plate and including a fan configured to draw air on the cooking plate into the suction port; and a control unit that controls the driving device to move the first cover from the first position to the second position based on a cooking container being placed in the first cooking region, and to move the second cover to the fourth position based on a cooking container being placed in the second cooking region.

[0226] The hood further includes a gas sensor that detects the level of contamination of the air, and the control unit can control the driving device to move the second cover to the fourth position based on the first cover being in the second position and the level of contamination detected by the gas sensor exceeding the reference level of contamination, even if no cooking vessel is placed in the second cooking area.

[0227] The control unit can control the driving device to move the second cover at the fourth position to the third position when a cooking vessel is not placed in the second cooking area and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor falls below the reference contamination level.

[0228] The hood further includes a gas sensor that detects the level of contamination of the air, and the control unit controls the rotation speed of the fan to a first rotation speed based on whether a cooking vessel is placed in the first cooking area, and controls the rotation speed of the fan to a second rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed based on whether the level of contamination detected by the gas sensor exceeds a reference level of contamination.

[0229] The fan includes a first fan provided under the first cooking area and a second fan provided under the second cooking area, and the control unit can control the rotation speed of the first fan to a first rotation speed based on whether a cooking vessel is placed in the first cooking area, and can control the rotation speeds of the first fan and the second fan to the second rotation speed based on whether the contamination level detected by the gas sensor exceeds a reference contamination level.

[0230] The first cooking area includes a first sub-cooking area and a second sub-cooking area, the first cover includes a first sub-cover adjacent to the first sub-cooking area and a second sub-cover adjacent to the second sub-cooking area, and the control unit controls the driving device to move the first sub-cover at the first position to the second position based on a cooking vessel being placed in the first sub-cooking area, and controls the driving device to move the second sub-cover at the first position to the second position based on a cooking vessel being placed in the second sub-cooking area.

[0231] The second cooking area includes a third sub-cooking area and a fourth sub-cooking area, the second cover includes a third sub-cover adjacent to the third sub-cooking area and a fourth sub-cover adjacent to the fourth sub-cooking area, and the control unit controls the driving device to move the third sub-cover at the third position to the fourth position based on a cooking vessel being placed in the third sub-cooking area, and controls the driving device to move the fourth sub-cover at the third position to the fourth position based on a cooking vessel being placed in the fourth sub-cooking area.

[0232] The hood further includes a gas sensor that detects the level of contamination of air, and the control unit can control the driving device to move the second sub-cover to the second position based on the first sub-cover being in the second position and the level of contamination detected by the gas sensor exceeding the reference level of contamination, even if no cooking vessel is placed in the second sub-cooking area.

[0233] The hood further includes a gas sensor that detects the level of contamination of the air, and the control unit can control the driving device to move the second cover to the fourth position based on the first sub-cover being in the second position and the level of contamination detected by the gas sensor exceeding the reference level of contamination, even if no cooking vessel is placed in the second cooking area.

[0234] The hood further includes a gas sensor that detects the level of contamination of air, and the control unit can control the driving device to move the third sub-cover to the fourth position based on the first sub-cover being in the second position and the level of contamination detected by the gas sensor exceeding the reference level of contamination, even if no cooking vessel is placed in the third sub-cooking area.

[0235] further comprising a bulkhead movable by the driving device; and the control unit,

[0236] Based on whether a cooking vessel is placed in the first cooking area or the second cooking area, the driving device can be controlled to move the baffle from the inside of the hood to the outside of the hood.

[0237] The control unit can control the driving device to move the partition from the outside of the hood to the inside of the hood based on the cooking vessel being placed in both the first cooking area and the second cooking area.

[0238] A control method for a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cooking plate including a suction port, a first cooking region provided on a first side with respect to the suction port, and a second cooking region provided on a second side opposite the first side with respect to the suction port, a first cover movable between a first position covering the suction port and a second position opening the suction port and adjacent to the first cooking region, a second cover movable between a third position covering the suction port and a fourth position opening the suction port and adjacent to the second cooking region, and a fan disposed below the cooking plate and configured to draw air on the cooking plate into the suction port, the control method may include: moving the first cover from the first position to the second position based on a cooking vessel being placed in the first cooking region; and moving the first cover from the third position to the fourth position based on a cooking vessel being placed in the second cooking region.

[0239] The method may further include moving the second cover to the fourth position based on the first cover being in the second position and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor exceeding the reference contamination level, even if the cooking vessel is not placed in the second cooking area.

[0240] The method may further include: when a cooking vessel is not placed in the second cooking area and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor falls below the reference contamination level, the second cover at the fourth position is moved to the third position.

[0241] It may further include controlling the rotation speed of the fan to a first rotation speed based on the cooking vessel being placed in the first cooking area, and controlling the rotation speed of the fan to a second rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed based on the contamination level detected by the gas sensor exceeding the reference contamination level.

[0242] The first cooking area may include a first sub-cooking area and a second sub-cooking area, and the first cover may include a first sub-cover adjacent to the first sub-cooking area and a second sub-cover adjacent to the second sub-cooking area, and the moving of the first cover at the first position to the second position based on a cooking vessel being placed in the first cooking area may include moving the first sub-cover at the first position to the second position based on a cooking vessel being placed in the first sub-cooking area, and moving the second sub-cover at the first position to the second position based on a cooking vessel being placed in the second sub-cooking area.

[0243] The second cooking area may include a third sub-cooking area and a fourth sub-cooking area, and the second cover may include a third sub-cover adjacent to the third sub-cooking area and a fourth sub-cover adjacent to the fourth sub-cooking area, and the moving of the second cover to the fourth position based on the cooking vessel being placed in the second cooking area may include moving the third sub-cover at the third position to the fourth position based on the cooking vessel being placed in the third sub-cooking area, and moving the fourth sub-cover at the third position to the fourth position based on the cooking vessel being placed in the fourth sub-cooking area.

[0244] The method may further include moving the second sub-cover to the second position based on the first sub-cover being in the second position and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor exceeding the reference contamination level, even if the cooking vessel is not placed in the second sub-cooking area.

[0245] The method may further include moving the second cover to the fourth position based on the first sub-cover being in the second position and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor exceeding the reference contamination level, even if the cooking vessel is not placed in the second cooking area.

[0246] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0247] Computer-readable storage media include all types of storage media that store instructions that can be deciphered by a computer. Examples include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disks, flash memory, and optical data storage devices.

[0248] Additionally, a computer-readable recording medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0249] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable recording medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated on a machine-readable recording medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0250] The disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the attached drawings as described above. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in forms other than the disclosed embodiments without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. A cooking plate including a suction port, a first cooking area provided on a first side based on the suction port, and a second cooking area provided on a second side opposite to the first side based on the suction port; A first cover moveable between a first position covering the suction port and a second position opening the suction port, the first cover being adjacent to the first cooking area; A second cover moveable between a third position covering the suction port and a fourth position opening the suction port, the second cover being adjacent to the second cooking area; A driving device for moving the first cover and the second cover; A hood including a fan arranged below the cooking plate and configured to draw air on the cooking plate into the intake port; and A cooking appliance comprising: a control unit that controls the driving device to move the first cover at the first position to the second position based on a cooking container being placed in the first cooking area, and controls the driving device to move the second cover to the fourth position based on a cooking container being placed in the second cooking area.

2. In paragraph 1, The above hood further includes a gas sensor that detects the level of air contamination, The above control unit, A cooking appliance that controls the driving device to move the second cover to the fourth position based on the first cover being in the second position and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor exceeding the reference contamination level even if a cooking container is not placed in the second cooking area.

3. In paragraph 2, The above control unit, A cooking appliance that controls the driving device so that the second cover at the fourth position moves to the third position when a cooking container is not placed in the second cooking area and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor falls below the standard contamination level.

4. In paragraph 1, The above hood further includes a gas sensor that detects the level of air contamination, The above control unit, Based on the cooking vessel being placed in the first cooking area, the rotation speed of the fan is controlled to a first rotation speed, A cooking appliance that controls the rotation speed of the fan to a second rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed based on the contamination level detected by the gas sensor exceeding the standard contamination level.

5. In paragraph 4, The above fan, Including a first fan provided under the first cooking area and a second fan provided under the second cooking area, The above control unit, Based on the cooking vessel being placed in the first cooking area, the rotation speed of the first fan is controlled to a first rotation speed, A cooking appliance that controls the rotation speed of the first fan and the second fan to the second rotation speed based on the contamination level detected by the gas sensor exceeding the standard contamination level.

6. In paragraph 1, The above first cooking area is, Including a first sub-cooking area and a second sub-cooking area, The above first cover, Including a first sub-cover adjacent to the first sub-cooking area and a second sub-cover adjacent to the second sub-cooking area, The above control unit, Controlling the driving device so that the first sub-cover at the first position moves to the second position based on the cooking vessel being placed in the first sub-cooking area; A cooking appliance that controls the driving device to move the second sub-cover from the first position to the second position based on the cooking container being placed in the second sub-cooking area.

7. In paragraph 6, The above second cooking area is, Including a third sub-cooking area and a fourth sub-cooking area, The above second cover, Including a third sub-cover adjacent to the third sub-cooking area and a fourth sub-cover adjacent to the fourth sub-cooking area, The above control unit, Controlling the driving device so that the third sub-cover at the third position moves to the fourth position based on the cooking vessel being placed in the third sub-cooking area; A cooking appliance that controls the driving device to move the fourth sub-cover at the third position to the fourth position based on the cooking container being placed in the fourth sub-cooking area.

8. In paragraph 6, The above hood further includes a gas sensor that detects the level of air contamination, The above control unit, A cooking appliance that controls the driving device to move the second sub-cover to the second position based on the first sub-cover being in the second position and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor exceeding the reference contamination level even if a cooking vessel is not placed in the second sub-cooking area.

9. In paragraph 6, The above hood further includes a gas sensor that detects the level of air contamination, The above control unit, A cooking appliance that controls the driving device to move the second cover to the fourth position based on the first sub-cover being in the second position and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor exceeding the reference contamination level even if a cooking container is not placed in the second cooking area.

10. In paragraph 7, The above hood further includes a gas sensor that detects the level of air contamination, The above control unit, A cooking appliance that controls the driving device to move the third sub-cover to the fourth position based on the first sub-cover being in the second position and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor exceeding the reference contamination level even if a cooking container is not placed in the third sub-cooking area.

11. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a bulkhead movable by the above driving device; The above control unit, A cooking appliance that controls the driving device so that the baffle moves from the inside of the hood to the outside of the hood based on whether a cooking container is placed in the first cooking area or the second cooking area.

12. In paragraph 11, The above control unit, A cooking appliance that controls the driving device so that the baffle moves from the outside of the hood to the inside of the hood based on the cooking container being placed in both the first cooking area and the second cooking area.

13. A control method for a cooking appliance including a cooking plate including a suction port, a first cooking area provided on a first side based on the suction port, and a second cooking area provided on a second side opposite the first side based on the suction port, a first cover movable between a first position covering the suction port and a second position opening the suction port and adjacent to the first cooking area, a second cover movable between a third position covering the suction port and a fourth position opening the suction port and adjacent to the second cooking area, and a fan disposed below the cooking plate and configured to suck air on the cooking plate into the suction port, Moving the first cover from the first position to the second position based on the cooking container being placed in the first cooking area; A method for controlling a cooking appliance, comprising: moving the first cover at the third position to the fourth position based on a cooking container being placed in the second cooking area; 14. In paragraph 13, A control method for a cooking appliance further comprising: moving the second cover to the fourth position based on the first cover being in the second position and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor exceeding the reference contamination level, even if a cooking container is not placed in the second cooking area; 15. In paragraph 14, A control method for a cooking appliance further comprising: moving the second cover at the fourth position to the third position when a cooking container is not placed in the second cooking area and the contamination level detected by the gas sensor falls below the standard contamination level;

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