Cooking appliance and method for controlling cooking appliance

Abstract

A cooking appliance according to the present disclosure comprises: a cook top including a cooking plate that has a cooking area and an inlet, and a heating device that is provided below the cooking plate with respect to the cooking area; a hood including a chamber housing that is disposed below the cook top and having an outlet, a fan that is provided inside the chamber housing and suctions air on the cooking plate through the inlet so as to discharge the air to the outlet, and a gas sensor that is provided inside the chamber housing and measures pollution levels of the air; and a control unit, which operates the fan at a predetermined rotation speed on the basis of the start of a heating operation of the heating device, determines a reference pollution level on the basis of a first pollution level measured by the gas sensor for a first predetermined time after operating the fan at the predetermined rotation speed, and controls the rotation speed of the fan by comparing, to the reference pollution level, a second pollution level measured by the gas sensor for a second predetermined time after determining the reference pollution level.

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 produce contaminants like oil mist, unburned gases, and odors during the cooking process. A hood is needed to exhaust the air containing these contaminants to the outside.

[0006] The present disclosure provides a cooking appliance with improved ease of use.

[0007] The present disclosure provides a cooking appliance including an operable hood with minimal noise.

[0008] The present disclosure provides a cooking appliance including an automatically operable hood.

[0009] 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.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cooking appliance may include: a cooktop including a cooking plate having a cooking region and an intake port, and a heating device provided below the cooking plate with respect to the cooking region; a hood including a chamber housing disposed below the cooktop and having an exhaust port, a fan provided inside the chamber housing and configured to suck air on the cooking plate through the intake port and exhaust it through the exhaust port, and a gas sensor provided inside the chamber housing and configured to measure a contamination level of the air; and a control unit configured to operate the fan at a predetermined rotation speed based on the heating device starting a heating operation, determine a reference contamination level based on a first contamination level measured by the gas sensor for a first predetermined period of time after operating the fan at the predetermined rotation speed, and, after determining the reference contamination level, compare a second contamination level measured by the gas sensor for a second predetermined period of time with the reference contamination level to control the rotation speed of the fan.

[0011] A control method of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: operating the fan at a predetermined rotation speed based on the heating device starting a heating operation; determining a reference contamination level based on a first contamination level measured by the gas sensor for a first predetermined period of time after operating the fan at the predetermined rotation speed; and controlling the rotation speed of the fan by comparing a second contamination level measured by the gas sensor for a second predetermined period of time with the reference contamination level after determining the reference contamination level.

[0012] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

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

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

[0015] Figure 4 is a schematic exploded view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

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

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

[0018] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the location of a gas sensor of a hood of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0021] Fig. 10 is a control block diagram of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0022] Fig. 11 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a method for controlling a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0023] Figures 12 and 13 are drawings for schematically explaining the flowchart of Figure 11 from a time perspective.

[0024] Fig. 14 is a flowchart for explaining automatic control of a fan of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0025] Figure 15 is a drawing for schematically explaining the flowchart of Figure 14 from a time perspective.

[0026] Fig. 16 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a method for controlling a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 17 illustrates an example of an interface provided by a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0028] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely preferred examples of the disclosed invention, and there may be various modified examples that can replace the embodiments and drawings of this specification at the time of filing of this application.

[0029] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments only and is not intended to limit and / or restrict the disclosed invention.

[0030] For example, in this specification, a singular expression may include a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0031] Additionally, terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to express the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not exclude the possibility of the additional presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] Additionally, terms that include ordinal numbers, such as “first,” “second,” etc., are used to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit one component.

[0036] Additionally, terms such as "~part", "~device", "~block", "~absence", and "~module" may refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, the terms may refer to at least one piece of hardware such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) / ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), at least one piece of software stored in memory, or at least one process processed by a processor.

[0037] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the disclosed invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. The same reference numbers or symbols used in the attached drawings may represent parts or components that perform substantially the same functions.

[0038] The operating principle and embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0039] 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.

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

[0041] The cooktop (10) may include a cooking plate (11) on which a cooking vessel may be placed. For example, the cooking plate (11) may have a generally flat shape. For example, the cooking plate (11) may include tempered glass such as ceramic glass. The cooking plate (11) may have a cooking area on which a cooking vessel may be placed. For example, the cooking plate (11) may include a plurality of cooking areas so that a plurality of cooking vessels may be placed thereon.

[0042] 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.

[0043] The cooktop (10) may include a user interface device (14, see FIG. 10) provided on the cooking plate (11). The input interface device (14b, see FIG. 10) 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 transmitted and displayed to the user.

[0044] 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).

[0045] The case (13) may include a shape with a substantially open top. For example, the case (13) may include a bottom portion (13a) and a side portion (13b) extending upward from the bottom portion (13a).

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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).

[0049] 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.

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

[0051] The cooktop (10) may include a printed board assembly (PBA) (17). The printed board assembly (17) may be provided to supply driving current to the heating 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).

[0052] The heating device (16) may be provided at the bottom of the cooking plate (11) for the cooking area to be described later. For example, the heating device (16) may be provided at the bottom of the cooking area of ​​the cooking plate (11).

[0053] The printed circuit board assembly (17) may include a control unit (110, see FIG. 10) and / or a communication unit (120, see FIG. 10) which will be described later.

[0054] The cooktop (10) may include a fan (18). The fan (18) may be provided for heat dissipation inside the case (10). 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). Outside air drawn 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).

[0055] 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).

[0056] The cooking appliance (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 discharge or circulate the air introduced through the intake port (12). The hood (20) may discharge the air introduced through the intake port (12) to the outside of a space (e.g., indoors) in which the cooking appliance (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 appliance (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).

[0057] 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.

[0058] By placing the hood (20) under the cooktop (10), the upper space where the cooking appliance (1) is installed can be secured. The upper portion of the cooking appliance (1) is provided as an empty space, so that the cooking space is secured and the cooking environment can be improved.

[0059] The hood (20) may include a chamber housing (30). The chamber housing (30) may be positioned beneath 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). The chamber housing (30) may provide a protective space for airflow management and filtering. By positioning the chamber housing (30) beneath the cooktop (10), space can be saved and the kitchen appearance can be kept neat.

[0060] 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 to 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). The intake port (12) may suck air from the cooking surface to capture contaminants such as smoke, oil mist, and odors generated during cooking, thereby making the environment around the cooktop cleaner.

[0061] 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).

[0062] 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).

[0063] 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 an exhaust port (35, see FIG. 4) through which air flows out from the chamber housing (30). The exhaust port (35) enables efficient air exhaust to recirculate outside the cooking space or filtered air into the room, thereby ensuring proper ventilation during cooking and reducing indoor air pollution. The exhaust port (35) may be connected to the duct (40).

[0064] 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 appliance (1) is installed. For example, one end of the duct (40) may be connected to an exhaust port (35) of the chamber housing (30). For example, the other end of the duct (40) may be connected to the outside or the inside. 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 outside or recirculate it indoors.

[0065] 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.

[0066] The cooking appliance (1) may include a fan device (50). The fan device (50) may be disposed inside 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).

[0067] 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. Air may flow into the cooking appliance (1) through the intake port (12) by the suction force of the fan (51). The fan (51) may be configured to draw air on the cooking plate (11) through the intake port (12) and discharge it through the exhaust port (35). The fan (51) provided in the chamber housing (30) may generate suction force necessary to draw air containing contaminants from the cooking surface through the intake port (12) and direct it toward the exhaust port (35). This configuration enhances the removal of cooking smoke and contaminants, ensuring cleaner air in the cooking environment. Placing the fan (51) in the chamber housing (30) may help optimize space and airflow efficiency.

[0068] 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).

[0069] 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).

[0070] The cooking appliance (1) may include at least one filter (61 and / or 71).

[0071] 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).

[0072] The cooking appliance (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).

[0073] 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).

[0074] For example, at least one of the first filter (61) or the second filter (62) 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 (62) may be a deodorizing filter for removing odor particles contained in the air.

[0075] 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 (72) 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).

[0076] The cooking appliance (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 positioned at the bottom of the first filter assembly. The tray (80) may be positioned 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).

[0077] 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).

[0078] 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.

[0079] The cooking appliance (1) may include a cover (100). The cover (100) may be provided to cover or open the suction port (12). The cover (100) may be provided to be movable to cover or open the suction port (12). The cover (100) may be provided to be rotatable to cover or open the suction port (12). According to various embodiments, the cover (100) may be omitted. That is, the cooking appliance (1) may not include the cover (100). When the cooking appliance (1) does not include the cover (100), components related to the cover (100) (e.g., the driving device (200)) may also be omitted.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, an example of air flow will be described. The cover (100) can open the intake port (12). Air can be introduced into the cooktop (10) through the intake port (12) opened by the cover (100). The air introduced through the intake port (12) can flow to the hood (20). The air introduced through the intake port (12) can flow to the chamber housing (30). For example, the air introduced through the intake port (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 port (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 (50a) of the fan device (50). The air drawn into the fan device (50) can flow out through the discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50). The discharge side (50b) 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 out of the chamber housing (30) through the discharge port (35). The air drawn out 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.

[0081] In one embodiment, when the cooking appliance (1) does not include a cover (100), air above the cooking plate (11) can be introduced into the cooktop (10) through the intake port (12).

[0082] When the cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment includes a cover (100), the cooking appliance (1) may include a driving device (200).

[0083] The driving device (200) may be configured to generate a driving force. The driving force generated by the driving device (200) may be transmitted to the cover (100). The driving device (200) may be configured to move the cover (100). The driving device (200) may be configured to rotate the cover (100). As a result, the cover (100) may operate to cover the suction port (12) or open the suction port (12).

[0084] 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 the cover (100).

[0085] 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).

[0086] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the location of a gas sensor of a hood of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0087] Referring to Fig. 8, a view of the chamber housing (30) from above can be seen.

[0088] When the fan (51) of the fan device (50) operates, air above the cooking plate (11) can be drawn into the chamber housing (30) through the intake port (12). The air drawn into the chamber housing (30) can pass through the first filter (61). The air that has passed through the first filter (61) can pass through the second filter (71) of the filter device (70).

[0089] Air passing through the filter device (70) is introduced into the fan device (50), and air introduced into the fan device (50) is discharged through the discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50). Since the discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50) is open toward the discharge port (35) of the chamber housing (30), most of the air introduced into the fan device (50) can eventually be discharged through the discharge port (35).

[0090] As a result, when the fan device (50) operates, the space between the suction port (12), the filter device (70), and the fan device (50) may correspond to a location where the flow rate is high.

[0091] Meanwhile, the corner side space (ta) of the chamber housing (30) may correspond to a location where the flow rate is slow.

[0092] In particular, air passing through the filter device (70) can be dispersed to both sides, but most of the air drawn into the fan device (50) is discharged through the exhaust port (35), so even if the fan device (50) operates, the flow rate in the corner side space (ta) of the chamber housing (30) near the fan device (50) can be slow.

[0093] In one embodiment, if the exhaust port (35) is formed on the rear side of the chamber housing (30) with respect to the fan (51), the gas sensor (90) may be provided on the front side of the chamber housing (30) with respect to the fan (51).

[0094] That is, the gas sensor (90) may be provided on the opposite side of the chamber housing (30) from the side where the exhaust port (35) is formed. That is, the gas sensor (90) may be provided on the side of the chamber housing (30) where the exhaust port (35) is not formed. Placing the gas sensor (90) on the opposite side of the exhaust port allows the sensor to accurately measure the contamination level before the air is discharged or recirculated. This location can extend the life of the sensor by preventing direct exposure to fast-moving air and improve its ability to detect fine particles and gases. Depending on the measured contamination level, the system can automatically adjust the fan speed according to the air quality, thereby improving both performance and energy efficiency.

[0095] According to the present disclosure, the lifespan of the gas sensor (90) can be extended by installing the gas sensor (90) inside the chamber housing (30) where there is little air flow under normal circumstances. That is, it may be preferable for the gas sensor (90) to be installed inside the chamber housing (30) rather than outside the cooking appliance (1) in terms of the lifespan of the gas sensor (90).

[0096] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, the life of the gas sensor (90) can be extended by installing the gas sensor (90) at a position (ta) with a slow flow rate within the chamber housing (30).

[0097] FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 9, a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment may include at least one cooking area (ca).

[0099] The cooking plate (11) may include a visual indicator for distinguishing the cooking zones (ca). For example, the cooking plate (11) may be provided with a visual indicator (e.g., a visual line) for distinguishing a plurality of cooking zones (ca) from each other.

[0100] The cooking appliance (1) may include an intake port (12) positioned adjacent to the cooking area (ca).

[0101] For example, if the cooking plate (11) includes a plurality of cooking areas (ca), the suction port (12) may be provided between the plurality of cooking areas (ca).

[0102] More specifically, the cooking plate (11) may include a first cooking area (ca) provided on a first side (e.g., left or upper side) with respect to the suction port (12), and a second cooking area (ca) provided on a second side (e.g., right or lower side) opposite to the first side with respect to the suction port (12).

[0103] According to the present disclosure, since the suction port (12) is provided between a plurality of cooking areas (ca), when the fan (51) is operated, contaminants generated on both sides while cooking is in progress in the cooking areas (ca) on both sides can be efficiently sucked in through the suction port (12).

[0104] The cooking appliance (1) may include a user interface device (14) for interaction between the user and the cooking appliance (1).

[0105] The user interface device (14) may include an output interface device (14a) and an input interface device (14b). In one embodiment, the output interface device (14a) and the input interface device (14b) may be formed on the cooking plate (11).

[0106] At least one output interface device (14a) can transmit various information related to the operation of the cooking appliance (1) to the user by generating sensory information.

[0107] For example, at least one output interface device (14a) can transmit information related to the settings of the cooking appliance (1) and the operating time of the cooking appliance (1) to the user. Information related to the operation of the cooking appliance (1) can be output by a display, an indicator, and / or a voice. The at least one output interface device (14a) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an indicator, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0108] At least one input interface device (14b) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0109] At least one input interface device (14b) may include a control button (k1) for controlling the heating intensity of the heating device, a power button (k2) for turning on the power of the cooking appliance (1), a run / pause button (k3), a setting button (k4), a timer button (k5), and / or a hood button (k6).

[0110] Each button may include a visual indicator (e.g., text, an icon, etc.) that indicates its function.

[0111] At least one 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.

[0112] In the present disclosure, 'button' may be replaced with a UI element (User Interface Element), 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.

[0113] The power button (k2) is a button to turn the power of the cooking appliance (1) on or off.

[0114] When the cooking appliance (1) is turned on, the control button (k1) can be activated.

[0115] The control button (k1) is a button for adjusting the heating intensity of the cooking area (ca).

[0116] The heating operation of the heating device (16) corresponding to the cooking area (ca) can be started through the control button (k1). Starting the heating operation of the heating device (16) may include starting the application of a driving current to the coil (16a).

[0117] Additionally, the heating intensity of the heating device (16) corresponding to the cooking area (ca) can be adjusted via the control button (k1). Adjusting the heating intensity of the heating device (16) may include adjusting the intensity of the driving current applied to the coil (16a).

[0118] A user can activate at least one cooking zone (ca) among a plurality of cooking zones (ca) by pressing the control button (k1). Activating a cooking zone (ca) may include operating the corresponding cooking zone (ca). Operating the cooking zone (ca) may include operating a heating device (16) corresponding to the corresponding cooking zone (ca).

[0119] The action / pause button (k3) is a button to temporarily deactivate the cooking area (ca) or to reactivate a temporarily deactivated cooking area (ca).

[0120] In one embodiment, when the action / pause button (k3) is selected in the first manner (tap), a command can be input to temporarily deactivate the cooking area (ca) or to reactivate the temporarily deactivated cooking area (ca).

[0121] In one embodiment, the action / pause button (k3) can lock or unlock the input interface device (14b) when selected in the second manner (touch and hold).

[0122] For example, locking the input interface device (14b) may include changing the control button (k1) to a non-operable state.

[0123] The settings button (k4) is a button for making various settings related to the cooking appliance (1).

[0124] When the setting button (k4) is selected, an interface for changing various settings related to the cooking appliance (1) can be provided through the output interface device (14a).

[0125] The timer button (k5) is a button for setting the timer for the operation of the cooking area (ca).

[0126] The hood button (k6) is a button for controlling the hood (20). For example, the hood button (k6) is a button for turning the fan (51) on / off, controlling the rotation speed of the fan (51), or activating / deactivating the automatic control function of the fan (51).

[0127] In one embodiment, when the hood button (k6) is selected in the first mode (tap), the rotation speed of the fan (51) can increase or decrease depending on the number of times the first mode is selected.

[0128] In one embodiment, when the hood button (k6) is selected in the second mode (touch and hold), the automatic mode of the fan (51) can be turned on or off. Turning the automatic mode off can include turning the manual mode on.

[0129] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a user can easily control the hood through a hood button (k6).

[0130] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a user can easily change the hood mode to automatic mode or manual mode through the hood button (k6).

[0131] Fig. 10 is a control block diagram of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 10, a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment may include a control unit (110). Furthermore, the cooking appliance (1) may include a user interface device (14), a gas sensor (90), a fan motor (53) that provides driving force to a fan (51), a heating device (16), and a communication unit (120).

[0133] As described above, the user interface device (14) can enable interaction between the user and the cooking appliance (1).

[0134] The cooking appliance (1) can process user input received through the input interface device (14b) or output information related to the cooking appliance (1) through the output interface device (14a).

[0135] For example, user input received through the input interface device (14b) can be transmitted to the control unit (110).

[0136] 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).

[0137] The gas sensor (90) may include various sensors capable of detecting pollutants in the air.

[0138] For example, the gas sensor (90) may include a TVOC sensor, a VOC sensor, or the like.

[0139] TVOC sensors can detect various pollutants present in the air and measure the level of pollution corresponding to the amount of pollutants.

[0140] The gas sensor (90) can transmit data related to the level of air pollution to the control unit (110).

[0141] 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).

[0142] The heating device (16) may include various devices for heating a cooking vessel placed in the cooking area (ca).

[0143] The heating device (16) may be provided at the bottom of the cooking area (ca). For example, if a plurality of cooking areas (ca) are formed on the cooking plate (11), the cooking appliance (1) may include heating devices (16) corresponding to the plurality of cooking areas (ca).

[0144] 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.

[0145] The control unit (110) can adjust the heating intensity of the heating device (16) by controlling the driving circuit. For example, the control unit (110) can adjust the heating intensity of the heating device (16) by controlling the driving circuit to adjust the intensity of the driving current applied to the coil (16a).

[0146] 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).

[0147] The cooking appliance (1) may include a communication unit (120) for communicating with an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or other home appliance) via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0148] The communication unit (120) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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).

[0151] 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.

[0152] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit (120). The mobile communication unit (120) transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0153] 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).

[0154] The control unit (110) can process user input received from the input interface device (14b).

[0155] 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)).

[0156] 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)).

[0157] 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).

[0158] As another example, the control unit (110) can adjust the heating intensity of the heating device (16) in response to receiving a user input for adjusting the heating intensity of the heating device (16) through the input interface device (14b).

[0159] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the rotation speed of the fan (51) in response to receiving a user input for controlling the rotation speed of the fan (51) via the input interface device (14b).

[0160] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may automatically 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).

[0161] Controlling the fan (51) by the control unit (110) may include controlling the fan motor (53) by the control unit (110).

[0162] 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.

[0163] At least one memory (112) can store an algorithm for automatically controlling the rotation speed of the fan (51). In addition, at least one memory (112) can also temporarily store at least one parameter (e.g., a reference value) for automatically controlling the rotation speed of the fan (51).

[0164] For example, the control unit (110) can determine a reference value for determining the start time of automatic control of the fan (51) based on processing data collected from the gas sensor (90), and temporarily store the determined reference value in memory.

[0165] 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).

[0166] 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).

[0167] 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).

[0168] Detecting whether a cooking vessel is placed in the cooking area (ca) may include detecting whether a cooking utensil suitable for a cooking appliance (1) is placed in the cooking area (ca).

[0169] Cooking containers suitable for the cooking appliance (1) may include, for example, cooking containers that can be used in an induction heating device.

[0170] The control unit (110) can operate the cooking area (ca) based on the detection that a cooking container is placed in the cooking area (ca).

[0171] The control unit (110) may be mounted on, for example, a printed circuit board assembly (17), but the location of the control unit (110) is not limited thereto.

[0172] The control unit (110) may be electrically connected to a user interface device (14), a gas sensor (90), a fan motor (53), a heating device (16), and / or a communication unit (120).

[0173] The configurations illustrated in FIG. 10 are an example of the configuration of a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment, and the cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment may include some configurations in addition to the configurations illustrated in FIG. 10, and may not include some of the configurations illustrated in FIG. 10.

[0174] For example, if the cooking appliance (1) includes a cover (100) for covering the suction port (12), the cooking appliance (1) may further include a driving device (200) for moving the cover (100).

[0175] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may control the drive unit (200) to open the suction port (12) based on the power of the cooking appliance (1) being turned on. In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may also control the drive unit (200) to open the suction port (12) based on the cooking area (ca) starting a heating operation. In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may also control the drive unit (200) to open the suction port (12) based on the fan (51) device starting an operation. Conversely, the control unit (110) may also control the drive unit (200) to close the suction port (12) based on the fan (51) device ending an operation.

[0176] Fig. 11 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a method for controlling a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. Figs. 12 and 13 are drawings for schematically explaining the flowchart of Fig. 11 from a time perspective.

[0177] More specifically, FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a control method of a cooking appliance (1) when the automatic mode of the fan (51) is activated. A user can activate or deactivate the automatic mode of the fan (51) through a user interface device (14) (e.g., a setting button (k4) or a hood button (k6)). When the automatic mode of the fan (51) is deactivated, the rotation speed of the fan (51) can be changed only according to a user input through the input interface device (14b).

[0178] Hereinafter, a control method of a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 13.

[0179] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13, the cooking appliance (1) may be turned on (1010). For example, the cooking appliance (1) may be turned on based on the selection of the power button (k2).

[0180] It is strongly assumed that when the cooking appliance (1) is turned on, the user will start cooking using the cooking appliance (1).

[0181] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can store the air contamination level measured from the gas sensor (90) in real time in the memory (112) based on the power of the cooking appliance (1) being turned on.

[0182] For example, the control unit (110) can accumulate the air contamination level measured from the gas sensor (90) based on the power of the cooking appliance (1) being turned on and store it in the memory (112).

[0183] The cooking appliance (1) can initiate a heating operation (1020). For example, the cooking appliance (1) can initiate a heating operation of the cooking area (ca) based on a user input received to operate the cooking area (ca) via a control button (k1).

[0184] When a user input for operating a first cooking area (ca) among a plurality of cooking areas (ca) is received through a control button (k1), the control unit (110) can operate a first heating device (16) corresponding to the first cooking area (ca) among a plurality of heating devices (16).

[0185] When a user input for operating a second cooking area (ca) among a plurality of cooking areas (ca) is received through a control button (k1), the control unit (110) can operate a second heating device (16) corresponding to the second cooking area (ca) among a plurality of heating devices (16).

[0186] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may operate the fan (51) at a predetermined rotation speed (1030) based on the heating device (16) initiating a heating operation (e.g., 1020). The control unit's ability to operate the fan (51) at a predetermined speed when the heating device is activated allows for continuous air intake into the cooking area even before contaminants accumulate. This preventative measure can improve user comfort and mitigate potential air quality issues by reducing the buildup of smoke or odors from the start of cooking.

[0187] At this time, the predetermined rotation speed may be stored in advance in the memory (112) as the rotation speed of the fan (51) that can provide only the minimum suction power that does not generate noise. For example, the predetermined rotation speed may be preset as a rotation speed at which the air volume of the fan (51) can be set to approximately 250 cmh to 350 cmh. In addition, other reasonable sub-ranges may be considered, such as 260 cmh to 340 cmh for more targeted efficiency, and 275 cmh to 325 cmh to ensure consistent performance in a standard cooking scenario. In addition, a range such as 300 cmh to 350 cmh may be advantageous if higher suction power is desired, and a wider range such as 200 cmh to 400 cmh is suitable for various fan models to flexibly balance power and energy efficiency.

[0188] That is, the control unit (110) can operate the fan (51) with the minimum wind volume based on the fact that the heating device (16) has started the heating operation (example of 1020).

[0189] The fact that the heating device (16) has started the heating operation may include receiving a command for the heating operation of the heating device (16), the heating device (16) being ready for the heating operation, or the heating device (16) actually starting the heating operation.

[0190] In one embodiment, operating the fan (51) based on the heating device (16) initiating a heating operation may include operating the fan (51) in response to receiving a user input to operate the heating device (16) via a control button (k1).

[0191] In one embodiment, operating the fan (51) based on the heating device (16) initiating a heating operation may include operating the fan (51) in response to the start of application of a driving current to the coil (16a).

[0192] In one embodiment, operating the fan (51) based on the heating device (16) initiating a heating operation may include operating the fan (51) in response to detecting that a cooking vessel is placed in the cooking area (ca) by applying a test current to the coil (16a).

[0193] According to the present disclosure, when the heating device (16) starts heating operation, the fan (51) is automatically operated at a minimum wind speed, so that the air pollution level before cooking starts can be measured in advance.

[0194] The control unit (110) can determine a reference contamination level based on the first contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) for a first predetermined time period (pd1) after operating the fan (51) at a predetermined rotation speed (after t1) (1040). Determining the reference contamination level after the first predetermined time period (pd1) allows the fan (51) to start at a basic level of air cleanliness. By setting a reference level, the system can accurately detect deviations due to contaminants during cooking. Accordingly, according to the present disclosure, unnecessary adjustments to the speed of the fan (51) can be prevented when there are no contaminants, and changes in the speed of the fan (51) can be made according to the actual contamination level.

[0195] Here, the first predetermined time (pd1) can be preset to a time sufficient to measure the air pollution level before cooking begins. For example, the first predetermined time (pd1) can be set to approximately 30 seconds, but the first predetermined time (pd1) is not limited thereto. Furthermore, other reasonable sub-ranges, such as 25 to 35 seconds for flexibility in various cooking scenarios, or 28 to 32 seconds for a more precise measurement period, can also be considered. Wider ranges, such as 20 to 60 seconds or 30 to 45 seconds, can also be used to accommodate various environments or fan system configurations. In special cases, alternative ranges, such as 15 to 30 seconds for faster detection, or 30 to 90 seconds for more sensitive systems, can be applied.

[0196] The first contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) during the first predetermined time (pd1) may include an average value of the contamination level values ​​measured by the gas sensor (90) during the first predetermined time (pd1).

[0197] Determining the reference contamination level based on the first contamination level may include determining the first contamination level as the reference contamination level.

[0198] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can determine the first contamination level as the reference contamination level.

[0199] According to the present disclosure, the cooking appliance (1) operates the fan (51) at a minimum wind speed to cause air to flow inside the hood, and sets the contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) as a reference contamination level before contaminants are generated by cooking, so that when performing automatic control of the fan (51) later, the atmospheric conditions before contaminants are generated by cooking can be taken into account.

[0200] As another example, determining the reference contamination level based on the first contamination level may include comparing the initial contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) before the heating operation of the heating device (16) begins (before t1) with the first contamination level, and determining the initial contamination level or the first contamination level as the reference contamination level based on the comparison result.

[0201] The initial contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) before the heating operation of the heating device (16) starts (No of 1020) may include, for example, an average value of the contamination level values ​​measured by the gas sensor (90) from the time the cooking device (1) is turned on (t0) to the time the heating operation starts (t1).

[0202] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may determine the first contamination level as the reference contamination level if the first contamination level is lower than or equal to the initial contamination level.

[0203] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may determine the initial contamination level as the reference contamination level if the first contamination level is greater than the initial contamination level. That is, the control unit (110) may determine the smaller of the first contamination level and the initial contamination level as the reference contamination level.

[0204] In general, if the cooking appliance (1) operates the fan (51) at a minimum air volume before starting cooking to cause air to flow inside the hood, fresh air from the space where the cooking appliance (1) is installed is drawn into the hood, so that the contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) does not increase.

[0205] However, if the contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) increases compared to the contamination level before the fan (51) was operated despite the air being circulated inside the hood by operating the fan (51) at the minimum wind speed before starting cooking, it can be assumed that an unexpected change in the air occurred, such as the user quickly starting cooking.

[0206] Therefore, even though the fan (51) is operated at a minimum air volume before cooking begins to circulate air inside the hood, if the contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) increases compared to the contamination level before the fan (51) is operated, the conditions of the atmosphere before pollutants are generated by cooking can be more accurately considered by setting the reference contamination level to the initial contamination level.

[0207] The reference contamination level can be used as a criterion for determining whether to initiate automatic control of the fan (51) in the future. As will be described later, the control unit (110) can control the rotation speed of the fan (51) by comparing the contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) after cooking begins with the reference contamination level.

[0208] The control unit (110) can temporarily store the determined reference contamination level in the memory (112). In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the rotation speed of the fan (51) based on the reference contamination level stored in the memory (112) when the heating device (16) starts the heating operation again within a predetermined time (e.g., 1 hour) after the heating operation of the heating device (16) ends. That is, when the heating device (16) starts the heating operation again within a predetermined time (e.g., 1 hour) after the heating operation of the heating device (16) ends, the process (1040) of determining the reference contamination level may be omitted.

[0209] The control unit (110) can compare the second contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) for a second predetermined time (pd2) after the time point (t2) at which the standard contamination level is determined with the standard contamination level (1050).

[0210] The second contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) for a second predetermined time (pd2) after the standard contamination level is determined may include an average value of the contamination level values ​​measured by the gas sensor (90) for the second predetermined time (pd2).

[0211] The control unit (110) can operate the fan (51) at a predetermined rotation speed until a time point (t3) after a second predetermined time (pd2) has elapsed since the standard contamination level has been determined. That is, the control unit (110) can operate the fan (51) at a minimum wind speed until a time point (t3) after a second predetermined time (pd2) has elapsed since the standard contamination level has been determined.

[0212] In one embodiment, the second predetermined time (pd2) may be determined as an appropriate time required for contaminants to be generated by cooking using the cooking appliance (1).

[0213] Since it takes some time from when the user starts cooking until the contaminants are generated from the cooking vessel, the second predetermined time (pd2) may be set longer than the first predetermined time (pd1).

[0214] According to the present disclosure, by setting the second predetermined time (pd2) to be longer than the first predetermined time (pd1), it is possible to prevent the rotation speed of the fan (51) from being automatically adjusted due to an unexpected increase in the contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) even when the user has not started cooking or no contaminants are generated by cooking.

[0215] However, if the second predetermined time (pd2) is set too long, the rotation speed of the fan (51) may not change even though a considerable amount of time has passed since the start of cooking and contaminants are generated.

[0216] Meanwhile, it is assumed that the more heating devices (16) performing the heating operation, the shorter the time required for pollutants to be generated due to cooking, and the fewer heating devices (16) performing the heating operation, the longer the time required for pollutants to be generated due to cooking.

[0217] In one embodiment, when the cooking appliance (1) includes a plurality of cooking zones (ca), the control unit (110) can determine the second predetermined time (pd2) based on the number of cooking zones (ca) in operation among the plurality of cooking zones (ca).

[0218] That is, the control unit (110) can set the second predetermined time (pd2) based on the number of heating devices (16) performing a heating operation among a plurality of heating devices (16).

[0219] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can set the second predetermined time (pd2) to be shorter as the number of heating devices (16) performing a heating operation among the plurality of heating devices (16) increases.

[0220] For example, if there is one cooking area (ca) in operation, the control unit (110) can determine the first period as the second predetermined time (pd2), if there are two cooking areas (ca) in operation, the control unit (110) can determine the second period as the second predetermined time (pd2), if there are three cooking areas (ca) in operation, the control unit (110) can determine the third period as the second predetermined time (pd2), and if there are four cooking areas (ca) in operation, the control unit (110) can determine the fourth period as the second predetermined time (pd2). In this case, the first period may be set to approximately 2 minutes, the second period may be set to approximately 1.5 minutes, the third period may be set to approximately 1 minute, and the fourth period may be set to approximately 1 minute, but examples of the first to fourth periods are not limited thereto.

[0221] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may determine a second predetermined time (pd2) depending on the point in time at which the cooking zone (ca) is operated and the number of cooking zones (ca) in operation.

[0222] For example, if one cooking area (ca) has been in operation for 1 minute and then another cooking area (ca) starts operating, a fifth period shorter than the first period and longer than the second period can be determined as the second predetermined time (pd2).

[0223] According to the present disclosure, the second predetermined time (pd2) is changed depending on the number of cooking areas (ca) in operation, so that it can be determined whether to start automatic control of the fan (51) at an optimal time.

[0224] Since the fan (51) operates at the minimum wind speed until the time point (t3) when the second predetermined time (pd2) has elapsed after the standard contamination level is determined, the user may hardly perceive the noise generated by the rotation of the fan (51).

[0225] Meanwhile, since the gas sensor (90) according to one embodiment is placed inside the chamber housing (30), it is possible to collect accurate data on the air above the cooking plate (11) only when the fan (51) is operated. To this end, the cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment can continuously collect accurate data on the air above the cooking plate (11) by operating the fan (51) at a minimum air volume based on the heating device (16) starting the heating operation.

[0226] The control unit (110) can control the rotation speed of the fan (51) based on comparing the second contamination level with the reference contamination level.

[0227] In the present disclosure, one contamination level being greater than another contamination level may include one contamination level being greater than the other contamination level by a first margin contamination level.

[0228] That is, in the present disclosure, a contamination level greater than another contamination level may include a contamination level greater than (another contamination level + a first margin contamination level).

[0229] In the present disclosure, a contamination level that is less than or equal to another contamination level may include a contamination level that is not greater than the other contamination level by a first margin contamination level.

[0230] That is, in the present disclosure, a certain contamination level being less than or equal to another contamination level may include a certain contamination level being less than or equal to (another contamination level + a first margin contamination level).

[0231] In the present disclosure, a contamination level being less than another contamination level may include a contamination level being less than another contamination level by a second margin contamination level.

[0232] That is, in the present disclosure, a contamination level that is less than another contamination level may include a contamination level that is less than (another contamination level - a second margin contamination level).

[0233] In the present disclosure, a contamination level being equal to another contamination level may include a contamination level being not greater than a first margin contamination level or not less than a second margin contamination level than the other contamination level.

[0234] That is, in the present disclosure, a contamination level that is equal to another contamination level may include a contamination level that is less than (another contamination level + a first margin contamination level) and greater than (another contamination level - a second margin contamination level).

[0235] At this time, the first and second margin contamination levels may be stored in advance in the memory (112) or may be determined according to a ratio (e.g., about 10%) with respect to a contamination level to be compared.

[0236] Additionally, the first and second margin contamination levels may be different from each other. For example, the first margin contamination level may be lower than the second margin contamination level. According to the present disclosure, by setting the first margin contamination level to be lower than the second margin contamination level, the rotation speed of the fan (51) can be rapidly increased in response to an increase in contaminants, and the rotation speed of the fan (51) can be gradually decreased in response to a decrease in contaminants.

[0237] According to various embodiments, the first and second margin contamination levels may be set by the user via the user interface device (14).

[0238] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may adjust the rotation speed of the fan (51) upwardly (1060) based on whether the second contamination level is greater than the reference contamination level (example of 1050).

[0239] Increasing the rotation speed of the fan (51) may include increasing the rotation speed of the fan (51) by a predetermined speed (e.g., about 5% to 10% of the maximum rotation speed). Increasing the rotation speed of the fan (51) may include increasing the air volume of the fan (51) by a predetermined air volume (e.g., about 5% to 10% of the maximum air volume).

[0240] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may initiate automatic control of the fan (51) based on the second contamination level being greater than the reference contamination level.

[0241] Regarding automatic control of the fan (51), this will be described later with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16.

[0242] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may increase the rotation speed of the fan (51) and initiate automatic control of the fan (51) based on the second contamination level being greater than the reference contamination level.

[0243] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may initiate automatic control of the fan (51) without upwardly adjusting the rotation speed of the fan (51) based on the second contamination level being greater than the reference contamination level.

[0244] When automatic control of the fan (51) starts, the control unit (110) can control the cooking appliance (1) based on the flowchart of FIG. 15.

[0245] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can maintain the rotation speed of the fan (51) based on whether the second contamination level is below the reference contamination level (No of 1050) (1055).

[0246] The control unit (110) can repeatedly perform a process (1057) of comparing the third contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) with the reference contamination level for a third predetermined time (pd3) from the time point (t3) at which the rotation speed of the fan (51) is maintained based on the comparison result between the second contamination level and the reference contamination level.

[0247] For example, the control unit (110) can repeatedly perform the process (1057) of comparing the third contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) with the reference contamination level for a third predetermined time (pd3) until the third contamination level is determined to be greater than the reference contamination level.

[0248] The third contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) during the third predetermined time (pd3) may include an average value of the contamination level values ​​measured by the gas sensor (90) during the third predetermined time (pd3).

[0249] Assuming that time t4 is the current time, the third contamination level can be obtained at the current time (t4). Assuming that time t5 is the current time, the third contamination level can be obtained at the current time (t5). Accordingly, the third contamination level can also be defined as the current contamination level.

[0250] That is, the control unit (110) can perform a process of comparing the current contamination level with the reference contamination level every third predetermined time (pd3).

[0251] At time t4, the control unit (110) can perform the process (1057) of comparing the third contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) for a third predetermined time (pd3) with the reference contamination level again at time t5, based on the fact that the current contamination level is lower than the reference contamination level.

[0252] At time t5, the control unit (110) can perform process 1060 based on the current contamination level being greater than the reference contamination level.

[0253] That is, the control unit (110) can adjust the rotation speed of the fan (51) upward, start automatic control of the fan (51), or adjust the rotation speed of the fan (51) upward and start automatic control of the fan (51) based on whether the current contamination level is greater than the reference contamination level.

[0254] The point in time (t3) at which the control unit (110) maintains the rotation speed of the fan (51) based on the comparison result between the second contamination level and the reference contamination level is a point in time after a considerable amount of time has passed since the cooking area (ca) began operating. In other words, it is assumed that point in time t3 is a sufficient amount of time for contaminants to be generated by cooking. Accordingly, the third predetermined time (pd3) may be set to a shorter time than the second predetermined time (pd2).

[0255] The third predetermined time (pd3) may be set to, for example, 10 seconds, but is not limited thereto.

[0256] According to the present disclosure, automatic control of the fan (51) is not started until sufficient time has elapsed for contaminants to be generated by cooking, whereas after sufficient time has elapsed for contaminants to be generated by cooking, automatic control of the fan (51) can be started at an optimal timing by determining whether to start automatic control of the fan (51) in short cycles.

[0257] According to the present disclosure, efficient air management is possible through a function that dynamically controls fan speed by comparing measured pollution levels over time. When pollution levels rise, the system increases fan speed to remove pollutants more quickly, and when pollution levels decrease, it reduces fan speed to save energy and reduce noise. This provides an intelligent air extraction system that adapts to real-time conditions, improving both energy efficiency and user experience.

[0258] Fig. 14 is a flowchart illustrating automatic control of a fan of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. Fig. 15 is a drawing schematically illustrating the flowchart of Fig. 14 from a time perspective.

[0259] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, an example of a process in which a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment performs automatic control of a fan (51) is described.

[0260] Referring to Fig. 14, the cooking appliance (1) can start automatic control of the fan (51) (1060).

[0261] As described above, the control unit (110) can start automatic control of the fan (51) based on the satisfaction of the automatic control start condition of the fan (51).

[0262] For example, the control unit (110) can start automatic control of the fan (51) from time t3 of FIG. 12 or time t5 of FIG. 13.

[0263] Based on the start of automatic control of the fan (51), the control unit (110) can repeatedly perform an operation (1070) of comparing the past contamination level with the current contamination level.

[0264] At this time, the past contamination level may include the contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) from the first time point in the past to the second time point in the past, and the present contamination level may include the contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) from the second time point in the past to the present.

[0265] The contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) from the first point in time in the past to the second point in time in the past may include an average value of the contamination level values ​​measured by the gas sensor (90) from the first point in time in the past to the second point in time in the past.

[0266] The contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) from the second point in time in the past to the present point in time may include an average value of the contamination level values ​​measured by the gas sensor (90) from the second point in time in the past to the present point in time.

[0267] The time between the first time point and the second time point may be the same as the time between the second time point and the present time point.

[0268] That is, the control unit (110) can compare the contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) during the fourth predetermined period (pd4) with the contamination level to be measured by the gas sensor (90) during the fourth predetermined period (pd4) in the future.

[0269] The fourth predetermined period (pd4) may be similar to the third predetermined period (pd3). For example, the fourth predetermined period (pd4) may be set to approximately 10 seconds.

[0270] Assuming that time point t6 is the current time point, the current contamination level may correspond to the contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) during the fourth predetermined period (pd4) between time points t5 and t6, and the past contamination level may correspond to the contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) during the fourth predetermined period (pd4) between time points prior to time point t5 and time point t5.

[0271] Assuming that time point t7 is the current time point, the current contamination level may correspond to the contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) during the fourth predetermined period (pd4) between time points t6 and t7, and the past contamination level may correspond to the contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) during the fourth predetermined period (pd4) between time points t5 and t6.

[0272] Assuming that time point t8 is the current time point, the current contamination level may correspond to the contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) during the fourth predetermined period (pd4) between time points t7 and t8, and the past contamination level may correspond to the contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) during the fourth predetermined period (pd4) between time points t6 and t7.

[0273] The control unit (110) can maintain the rotation speed of the fan (51) based on whether the current contamination level and the past contamination level are the same (example of 1080) (1085).

[0274] The control unit (110) can adjust the rotation speed of the fan (51) upward based on whether the current contamination level is greater than the past contamination level (example of 1090) (1095).

[0275] The control unit (110) can adjust the rotation speed of the fan (51) downward based on whether the current contamination level is lower than the past contamination level (No of 1090) (1096).

[0276] That is, based on the start of automatic control of the fan (51), the control unit (110) can repeatedly perform a process of maintaining the rotation speed of the fan (51), increasing the rotation speed of the fan (51), or decreasing the rotation speed of the fan (51) based on a comparison of the current contamination level and the past contamination level.

[0277] According to the present disclosure, after the automatic control of the fan (51) is started, the fan (51) changes the air volume in short cycles (fourth predetermined time (pd4)) according to the degree of air contamination, thereby effectively sucking in pollutants generated from the upper side of the cooking plate (11) through the suction port (12).

[0278] According to the present disclosure, convenience for the user is increased because the cooking appliance (1) automatically adjusts the wind speed of the fan (51) without the user having to adjust the wind speed of the fan (51).

[0279] Fig. 16 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a method for controlling a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0280] Referring to Fig. 16, the cooking appliance (1) can determine the end of cooking using the cooking appliance (1) (2010).

[0281] For example, the cooking appliance (1) can determine that cooking is finished based on the termination of the heating operation of the heating device (16).

[0282] As another example, the cooking appliance (1) may determine that cooking is finished based on the cooking appliance (1) being turned off.

[0283] As another example, the cooking appliance (1) can determine that cooking is finished based on the change in the decrease in the contamination level over a unit time period after the contamination level collected by the gas sensor (90) becomes greater than the reference contamination level, and then becomes greater than a predetermined change amount.

[0284] The control unit (110) can adjust the rotation speed of the fan (51) downward based on the completion of cooking and operate it for a predetermined period of time (2020).

[0285] For example, the control unit (110) can adjust the rotation speed of the fan (51) downward based on the termination of the heating operation of the heating device (16) and operate it for a predetermined period of time (e.g., about 10 minutes).

[0286] At this time, lowering the rotation speed of the fan (51) may include reducing the rotation speed of the fan (51) by a predetermined ratio (e.g., 0.5 times).

[0287] According to the present disclosure, the cooking appliance (1) can effectively suck up pollutants scattered in the air through the suction port (12) after cooking is completed.

[0288] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can adjust the rotation speed of the fan (51) downward and operate it for a predetermined period of time, and then perform an after run operation (2030).

[0289] The after-run operation may include operating the fan (51) at a predetermined rotational speed for a predetermined period of time. The predetermined rotational speed in the after-run operation may be the same as the predetermined rotational speed in operation 1030 of FIG. 11.

[0290] That is, the cooking appliance (1) can perform an operation to effectively remove pollutants scattered in the air after cooking is completed, and then perform an after-run operation to remove the remaining pollutants with minimal noise.

[0291] The control unit (110) can automatically stop the fan (51) after the after-run operation.

[0292] According to the present disclosure, even when cooking is finished, the fan (51) automatically removes air pollutants and stops, thereby improving user convenience.

[0293] In the above, a control method of a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment has been described. The processes illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 14 are examples of processes of a control method of a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment. The control method of a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment may include some processes in addition to the processes illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 14, and conversely, some of the processes illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 14 may be omitted.

[0294] For example, the control method of the cooking appliance (1) may further include a process of the cooking appliance (1) determining whether the gas sensor (90) is broken.

[0295] The control unit (110) may determine that the gas sensor (90) is broken if the automatic control of the fan (51) does not start even though the heating device (16) of the cooking appliance (1) has been operated a predetermined number of times or for a predetermined period of time or more.

[0296] Based on the determination that the gas sensor (90) is faulty, the control unit (110) can output information notifying the fault of the gas sensor (90) through the output interface device (14a), or transmit information notifying the fault of the gas sensor (90) to an external device through the communication unit (120).

[0297] FIG. 17 illustrates an example of an interface provided by a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0298] Referring to FIG. 17, a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment can provide an interface for setting a hood (20).

[0299] For example, an interface for setting the hood (20) may be provided by an output interface device (14a).

[0300] The interface for setting the hood (20) may include an element for adjusting the control sensitivity of the fan (51), an element for turning on / off the automatic mode of the fan (51), and / or an element for setting the after-run operation time.

[0301] The user can change the first margin contamination level and / or the second margin contamination level described above through an element for adjusting the control sensitivity of the fan (51).

[0302] For example, the first margin contamination level and the second margin contamination level when the control sensitivity of the fan (51) is set high may be lower than the first margin contamination level and the second margin contamination level when the control sensitivity of the fan (51) is set low.

[0303] That is, the higher the control sensitivity of the fan (51) is set, the more the rotation speed of the fan (51) can be changed even if the contamination level changes slightly.

[0304] The control unit (110) can change the first margin contamination level and the second margin contamination level according to the control sensitivity of the fan (51) changed based on user input.

[0305] The user can activate or deactivate the automatic mode of the fan (51) through an element for turning the automatic mode of the fan (51) on / off.

[0306] The control unit (110) can perform a process (1030 in FIG. 11) of operating the fan (51) at a predetermined rotation speed based on the fact that the heating device (16) has started the heating operation only when the automatic mode of the fan (51) is activated.

[0307] The user can change the after-run operation time of the fan (51) through an element for setting the after-run operation time of the fan (51).

[0308] The control unit (110) can perform an after-run operation (2030 in FIG. 17) during the after-run operation time set by the user.

[0309] According to the present disclosure, in a hood-integrated cooking appliance (1) provided with a cooktop (10) and a hood (20), a gas sensor (90) can be installed at an optimal position to ensure a long lifespan.

[0310] According to the present disclosure, in a cooking appliance (1) equipped with a cooktop (10) and a hood (20), the speed of the fan (51) can be increased only when contaminants are generated during cooking.

[0311] According to the present disclosure, in a hood-integrated cooking appliance (1) provided with a cooktop (10) and a hood (20), the convenience of use of the hood (20) can be increased.

[0312] A cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a cooktop (10) including a cooking plate (11) having a cooking area (ca) and an intake port (12), and a heating device (16) provided at a lower portion of the cooking plate (11) with respect to the cooking area (ca); a chamber housing (30) disposed below the cooktop (10) and having an exhaust port (35); a fan (51) provided inside the chamber housing (30) and configured to suck air on the cooking plate (11) through the intake port (12) and discharge it to the exhaust port (35); and a hood (20) including a gas sensor (90) provided inside the chamber housing (30) and configured to measure the level of contamination of the air. And it may include a control unit (110) that operates the fan (51) at a predetermined rotation speed based on the fact that the heating device (16) has started a heating operation, determines a reference contamination level based on a first contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) for a first predetermined time (pd1) after operating the fan (51) at the predetermined rotation speed, and compares the second contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) for a second predetermined time (pd2) after determining the reference contamination level with the reference contamination level to control the rotation speed of the fan (51).

[0313] The above control unit (110) can upwardly adjust the rotation speed of the fan (51) based on the second contamination level being greater than the reference contamination level.

[0314] The above control unit (110) can maintain the rotation speed of the fan (51) based on the second contamination level being lower than or equal to the reference contamination level.

[0315] The above control unit (110) can determine the first contamination level as the reference contamination level.

[0316] The control unit (110) may compare the initial contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) before the heating device (16) starts the heating operation with the first contamination level, and if the first contamination level is lower than the initial contamination level, determine the first contamination level as the reference contamination level, and if the first contamination level is higher than the initial contamination level, determine the initial contamination level as the reference contamination level.

[0317] The above control unit (110) can set the second predetermined time (pd2) based on the number of heating devices (16) performing a heating operation among the plurality of heating devices (16).

[0318] The above control unit (110) can set the second predetermined time (pd2) to be shorter as the number of heating devices (16) performing a heating operation among the plurality of heating devices (16) increases.

[0319] The above control unit (110) can start automatic control of the fan (51) based on the second contamination level being greater than the reference contamination level.

[0320] The control unit (110) may repeatedly perform a process of comparing the third contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) with the reference contamination level for a third predetermined time (pd3) based on the second contamination level being lower than or equal to the reference contamination level.

[0321] Automatic control of the fan (51) can be started based on the third contamination level being greater than the reference contamination level.

[0322] Based on the start of automatic control of the fan (51), the control unit (110) can compare the past contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) from the first time point in the past to the second time point in the past with the current contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) from the second time point in the past to the present time point.

[0323] The above control unit (110) can maintain the rotation speed of the fan (51) if the current contamination level and the past contamination level are the same.

[0324] The above control unit (110) can adjust the rotation speed of the fan (51) upward if the current contamination level is greater than the past contamination level.

[0325] The above control unit (110) can adjust the rotation speed of the fan (51) downward if the current contamination level is lower than the past contamination level.

[0326] The above control unit (110) can adjust the rotation speed of the fan (51) downward and operate it for a predetermined period of time based on the termination of the heating operation of the heating device (16).

[0327] The control unit (110) stores the reference contamination level in the memory (112), and when the heating device (16) starts the heating operation again within a predetermined time after the heating operation of the heating device (16) is finished, the control unit (110) can compare the reference contamination level stored in the memory with the second contamination level to control the rotation speed of the fan (51).

[0328] The control unit (110) can perform a process of operating the fan (51) at the predetermined rotation speed based on the fact that the heating device (16) has started the heating operation only when the automatic mode is activated according to a user input.

[0329] The above-mentioned exhaust port (35) is formed toward the rear side of the chamber housing (30) with respect to the fan (51), and the gas sensor (90) can be provided at the front side of the chamber housing (30) with respect to the fan (51).

[0330] A control method of a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: operating the fan (51) at a predetermined rotation speed based on the heating device (16) starting a heating operation; determining a reference contamination level based on a first contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) for a first predetermined time (pd1) after operating the fan (51) at the predetermined rotation speed; and controlling the rotation speed of the fan (51) by comparing a second contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) for a second predetermined time (pd2) with the reference contamination level after determining the reference contamination level.

[0331] Controlling the rotation speed of the fan (51) may include upwardly adjusting the rotation speed of the fan (51) based on the second contamination level being greater than the reference contamination level, and starting automatic control of the fan (51).

[0332] Controlling the rotation speed of the fan (51) may include repeatedly performing a process of maintaining the rotation speed of the fan (51) based on the second contamination level being lower than or equal to the reference contamination level, comparing the third contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) with the reference contamination level for a third predetermined time (pd3), and starting automatic control of the fan (51) based on the third contamination level being higher than the reference contamination level.

[0333] The control method of the above cooking appliance (1) may further include comparing the past contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) from a first time in the past to a second time in the past with the current contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) from the second time in the past to the present time based on the start of automatic control of the fan (51).

[0334] The control method of the above cooking appliance (1) may further include maintaining the rotation speed of the fan (51) when the current contamination level and the past contamination level are the same.

[0335] The control method of the above cooking appliance (1) may further include upwardly adjusting the rotation speed of the fan (51) when the current contamination level is greater than the past contamination level.

[0336] The control method of the above cooking appliance (1) may further include adjusting the rotation speed of the fan (51) downward when the current contamination level is lower than the past contamination level.

[0337] Determining the reference contamination level may include comparing the initial contamination level measured by the gas sensor (90) before the heating device (16) starts a heating operation with the first contamination level; determining the first contamination level as the reference contamination level if the first contamination level is lower than the initial contamination level; and determining the initial contamination level as the reference contamination level if the first contamination level is higher than the initial contamination level.

[0338] The control method of the above cooking appliance (1) may further include setting the second predetermined time (pd2) based on the number of heating devices (16) performing a heating operation among the plurality of heating devices (16).

[0339] 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.

[0340] 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.

[0341] 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.

[0342] 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.

[0343] 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 cooktop including a cooking plate having a cooking area and an intake, and a heating device provided at a lower portion of the cooking plate with respect to the cooking area; A hood comprising a chamber housing disposed below the cooktop and having an exhaust port, a fan provided inside the chamber housing and configured to suck air on the cooking plate through the intake port and exhaust it through the exhaust port, and a gas sensor provided on a side of the chamber housing where the exhaust port is not formed and configured to measure the level of contamination of the air; and A cooking appliance comprising: a control unit that operates the fan at a predetermined rotation speed based on the fact that the heating device has started a heating operation, determines a reference contamination level based on a first contamination level measured by the gas sensor for a first predetermined period of time after operating the fan at the predetermined rotation speed, and compares a second contamination level measured by the gas sensor for a second predetermined period of time with the reference contamination level after determining the reference contamination level to control the rotation speed of the fan.

2. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A cooking appliance that adjusts the rotation speed of the fan upward based on the second contamination level being greater than the reference contamination level.

3. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A cooking appliance that maintains the rotation speed of the fan based on the second contamination level being lower than or equal to the standard contamination level.

4. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A cooking appliance that determines the first contamination level as the reference contamination level.

5. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A cooking appliance wherein the initial contamination level measured by the gas sensor before the heating device starts a heating operation is compared with the first contamination level, and if the first contamination level is lower than or equal to the initial contamination level, the first contamination level is determined as the reference contamination level, and if the first contamination level is higher than the initial contamination level, the initial contamination level is determined as the reference contamination level.

6. In paragraph 1, The above cooking area includes multiple cooking areas, The above heating device includes a plurality of heating devices corresponding to the plurality of cooking areas, The above control unit, A cooking appliance that sets the second predetermined time based on the number of heating devices performing a heating operation among the plurality of heating devices.

7. In paragraph 6, The above control unit, A cooking appliance in which the second predetermined time is set shorter as the number of heating devices performing a heating operation among the plurality of heating devices increases.

8. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A cooking appliance that starts automatic control of the fan based on the second contamination level being greater than the reference contamination level.

9. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, Based on the above second contamination level being lower than or equal to the reference contamination level, a process of repeatedly comparing the third contamination level measured by the gas sensor with the reference contamination level for a third predetermined time period is performed, A cooking appliance that starts automatic control of the fan based on the third contamination level being greater than the reference contamination level.

10. In clause 8 or 9, Based on the start of automatic control of the above fan, the control unit, A cooking appliance which compares the past contamination level measured by the gas sensor from a first point in time in the past to a second point in time in the past with the present contamination level measured by the gas sensor from the second point in time in the past to the present, and maintains the rotation speed of the fan if the present contamination level and the past contamination level are the same, and adjusts the rotation speed of the fan upward if the present contamination level is greater than the past contamination level, and adjusts the rotation speed of the fan downward if the present contamination level is less than the past contamination level.

11. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A cooking appliance that operates for a predetermined period of time by lowering the rotation speed of the fan based on the termination of the heating operation of the heating device.

12. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, Store the above standard contamination level in memory, A cooking appliance that controls the rotation speed of the fan by comparing the reference contamination level stored in the memory with the second contamination level when the heating device starts heating again within a predetermined time after the heating operation of the heating device ends.

13. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A cooking appliance that performs a process of operating the fan at the predetermined rotation speed based on the heating device starting the heating operation only when the automatic mode is activated based on user input.

14. In paragraph 1, The above exhaust port is formed toward the rear of the chamber housing based on the above fan, A cooking appliance in which the gas sensor is provided on the front side of the chamber housing with respect to the fan.

15. A control method for a cooking appliance, comprising: a cooktop including a cooking plate having a cooking area and an intake port, and a heating device provided at a lower portion of the cooking plate with respect to the cooking area; and a chamber housing disposed below the cooktop and having an exhaust port, a fan provided inside the chamber housing and configured to suck in air on the cooking plate through the intake port and exhaust it through the exhaust port, and a hood including a gas sensor provided inside the chamber housing and configured to measure the level of contamination of the air; The fan is operated at a predetermined rotation speed based on the fact that the heating device has started heating operation; After operating the fan at the predetermined rotation speed, a reference contamination level is determined based on the first contamination level measured by the gas sensor for a first predetermined time; A method for controlling a cooking appliance, comprising: controlling the rotation speed of the fan by comparing a second contamination level measured by the gas sensor for a second predetermined period of time with the reference contamination level after determining the reference contamination level.

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