Food processor

Abstract

A food processor according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a container comprising a receptacle having an open top; a lid that couples to the receptacle to cover the top of a receiving space and having a first steam discharge hole in the center thereof; a lid cap that couples to the lid to cover the first steam discharge hole; a main body on which the container is seated; and a heating unit provided in the main body so as to surround the lower part of the receptacle and heat the food material in the receiving space, wherein the lid cap comprises: a stem penetrating the first steam discharge hole; stem protrusions protruding from both sides of the stem to couple with the lid; and an elliptical steam shield part covering the top of the stem and extending laterally to cover the top of the first steam discharge hole.

Description

food processor

[0001] The present invention relates to a food processor, and more particularly, to a food processor that performs processing such as grinding, processing, and cooking on food.

[0002] There are a variety of food processors that perform tasks such as grinding, mixing, and juicing food.

[0003] Among food processors, there are cooking devices such as mixers and blenders that cook food by at least one of grinding and stirring, as well as cooking devices such as multi-cookers that heat and cook food during processing such as grinding and stirring.

[0004] In this way, a food processor capable of heating and cooking must be equipped with a structure that discharges steam to prevent the pressure inside the container from becoming excessively high due to the steam generated during the heating process.

[0005] However, the moisture in the food may disappear due to the release of steam generated during the cooking process, resulting in unsatisfactory cooking results.

[0006] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a food processor that prevents excessive evaporation of moisture during the process of heating and processing food.

[0007] Alternatively, it is to provide a food processor with improved insulation performance and a vibration / noise reduction effect by a cover surrounding the container.

[0008] Alternatively, a food processor is provided with increased convenience in opening / closing the cover surrounding the container.

[0009] The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present invention for solving the above problem, a food processor comprises a container including a receiving tank that is opened upwards, a lid coupled to the receiving tank so as to cover an upper portion of the receiving space and having a first steam discharge hole formed in a central portion, a lid cap coupled to the lid so as to cover the first steam discharge hole, a main body on which the container is seated, and a heating unit provided on the main body so as to surround a lower portion of the receiving tank and heats food ingredients in the receiving space, wherein the lid cap includes a stem penetrating the first steam discharge hole, stem protrusions formed protruding on both sides of the stem and coupled to the lid, and an oval-shaped steam blocking unit that covers an upper portion of the stem and extends laterally to cover an upper portion of the first steam discharge hole.

[0011] Other specific details of the present invention are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0012] According to embodiments of the present invention, at least the following effects are achieved.

[0013] Prevents excessive evaporation of moisture during the heating and processing of food.

[0014] Alternatively, the vibration / noise reduction effect and the insulation performance are improved by the cover surrounding the container.

[0015] Alternatively, the convenience of opening / closing the cover surrounding the container is increased.

[0016] The effects according to the present invention are not limited to those exemplified above, and more diverse effects are included in this specification.

[0017] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a closed state of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating an open state of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a lid cap of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a lead cap of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a lid and a lid cap of a food processor are coupled according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a state in which a lid and a lid cap of a food processor are coupled according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 8 is a plan view showing a state in which a lid and a lid cap of a food processor are coupled according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating the internal structure of an upper cover of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a first side cover, a second side cover, and a side cover drive unit of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the upper part of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention, with the first side cover, the second side cover, and the side cover drive unit assembled.

[0028] FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing the lower portion of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention, in an assembled state, of a first side cover, a second side cover, and a side cover drive unit.

[0029] FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the upper cover is removed in a closed state of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing an upper cover linkage, etc. of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 15 is a drawing for explaining the switching operation between the open state and the closed state of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] The advantages and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided solely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined solely by the scope of the claims.

[0033] Furthermore, the embodiments described herein will be described with reference to cross-sectional and / or schematic drawings, which are ideal illustrations of the present invention. Therefore, the form of the illustrations may be modified due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Furthermore, in each drawing illustrated in the present invention, each component may be depicted somewhat enlarged or reduced for convenience of explanation. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals denote the same components.

[0034] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to drawings for explaining a food processor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a closed state of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an open state of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a food processor (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a main body (10), a heating unit (20), a cover receiving unit (30), a container (40), a lid (50), a lid cap (60), a first side cover (70), a second side cover (80), and an upper cover (90).

[0037] The main body (10) is configured such that the container (40) is detachably installed, and may include a power source (e.g., a motor) for driving a processing member (e.g., a blade, etc.) included in the container (40) within the main body (10). The inside of the main body (10) may be provided with a circuit configuration for controlling the power source and the heating unit (20), a heat dissipation configuration for dissipating heat generated from the power source and the heating unit (20) to the outside, etc.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 1 and the like, an operation unit (11) that receives an input for controlling a power source and / or a heating unit (20), etc., may be provided on the outer surface of the main body (10). In FIG. 1 and the like, a touch panel is illustrated as an example of the operation unit (11), but the operation unit (11) is not limited thereto and may include at least one of operation means such as a dial, a button, and a touch panel. In addition, the operation unit (11) may include a display that enables searching and viewing of cooking recipes, and through the display, the manual of the food processor (1) may be viewed, or the control status of the food processor (1), information guiding the cooking progress using the food processor (1), etc. may be displayed.

[0039] Referring to Fig. 3, a heating unit (20) is provided on the upper part of the main body (10) and forms a heating space (21) that accommodates the lower part of the container (40). The heating unit (20) provides heat to a container (41) accommodated in the heating space (21), thereby heating food materials accommodated inside the container (41).

[0040] The heating unit (20) may include a heating coil surrounding a heating space (21). Alternatively, the heating unit (20) may include a coil capable of transferring heat through induction heating. Alternatively, the heating unit (20) may be configured to supply high-temperature air to the heating space (21).

[0041] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the cover receiving portion (30) is formed to extend upward from the main body (10) so as to be located at the rear of the receiving tank (41). The cover receiving portion (30) retractably receives the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80).

[0042] The first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) are accommodated inside the cover receiving portion (30) in the open state (see FIG. 2). In the open state, only a portion of the first side cover (70) is exposed to one side of the cover receiving portion (30) and most of it can be accommodated inside the cover receiving portion (30). In the open state, only a portion of the second side cover (80) is exposed to the other side of the cover receiving portion (30) and most of it can be accommodated inside the cover receiving portion (30).

[0043] In the closed state (see Fig. 1), the first side cover (70) moves from one side of the cover receiving portion (30) along the upper edge of the main body (10) toward the handle (42) of the container (40) and closes one side of the receiving tank (41) from the outside. That is, in the closed state (see Fig. 1), the first side cover (70) is arranged to extend from the cover receiving portion (30) and surround one side of the receiving tank (41).

[0044] In the closed state (see Fig. 1), the second side cover (80) moves from the other side of the cover receiving portion (30) along the upper edge of the main body (10) toward the handle (42) of the container (40) and closes the other side of the receiving tank (41) from the outside. That is, in the closed state (see Fig. 1), the second side cover (80) is arranged to extend from the cover receiving portion (30) and surround the other side of the receiving tank (41).

[0045] Referring to FIG. 3, in the open state, the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) may be arranged to overlap each other inside the cover receiving portion (30). In order to prevent the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) from interfering with each other during the transition between the open state and the closed state, the path along which the first side cover (70) moves and the path along which the second side cover (80) moves may be separated from each other. For example, the path along which the second side cover (80) moves may be formed on the inner side of the path along which the first side cover (70) moves. Conversely, the path along which the second side cover (80) moves may be formed on the outer side of the path along which the first side cover (70) moves.

[0046] A more detailed description of the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) will be provided later.

[0047] *Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the upper cover (90) may be rotatably provided on the upper portion of the cover receiving portion (30). The upper cover (90) may be elastically supported with respect to the cover receiving portion (30) using an elastic member such as a spring provided on the rotation axis, and the elastic member may provide elastic force in the direction in which the upper cover (90) is opened.

[0048] The upper cover (90) may have a second steam discharge hole (94) formed vertically through the central portion. The second steam discharge hole (94) is a space in which at least a portion of the lead cap (60) described later is accommodated.

[0049] The upper cover (90) is in contact with the upper portion of the cover receiving portion (30), the upper portion of the first side cover (70), and the upper portion of the second side cover (80) in the closed state (see Fig. 1). Therefore, in the closed state, the upper cover (90) closes the upper portion of the receiving space surrounded by the cover receiving portion (30), the first side cover (70), and the second side cover (80).

[0050] The upper cover (90) opens the upper portion of the receiving space surrounded by the cover receiving portion (30), the first side cover (70), and the second side cover (80) in an open state (see Fig. 2), thereby enabling the container (40) received within the receiving space to be removed.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 2, the lower surface of the upper cover (90) includes a first lower surface (91) that is in contact with the upper surface of the cover receiving portion (30), and a second lower surface (92) that is in contact with the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80).

[0052] Since the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) are projected from one side and the other side of the cover receiving portion (30), respectively, a step exists between the upper surface of the cover receiving portion (30) and the upper ends of the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80).

[0053] In order to improve the sealing effect of the receiving space, the first lower surface (91) and the second lower surface (92) may also form a step corresponding to the step between the upper surface of the cover receiving portion (30) and the upper ends of the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80).

[0054] Through this structure, the steam generated in the container (40) is prevented from being discharged between the upper cover (90) and the cover receiving portion (30) / first side cover (70) / second side cover (80), thereby preventing the user from being unintentionally burned by the steam.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 2, the first lower surface (91) may be exposed with coupling hooks (96a, 96b) that maintain the coupling between the upper cover (90) and the cover receiving portion (30) in a closed state. In addition, the first lower surface (91) may be provided with unlocking protrusions (95a, 95b) that are connected to the coupling hooks (96a, 96b) and move the coupling hooks (96a, 96b) to a separation position by the opening operation of the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80).

[0056] A flap receiving groove (93) that receives the upper ends of the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) may be formed on the second lower surface (92). In order to prevent steam from leaking between the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) and the second lower surface (92), the flap receiving groove (93) may be formed on a sealing member with excellent sealing and adhesion properties.

[0057] The second steam discharge hole (94) can be formed to penetrate the first lower surface (91) and the second lower surface (92).

[0058] A more detailed description of the upper cover (90) will be provided later.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 3, the container (40) may include a container (41) that is opened upward and accommodates food ingredients, and a handle (42) that protrudes from the container (41). Although not shown, a processing member (e.g., a blade) for processing food ingredients may be provided inside the container (41). The processing member may be connected to a drive shaft exposed on the upper surface of the main body (10) to receive rotational force.

[0060] The main body (10) can be configured so that the container (40) is placed therein with the handle (42) positioned at the front.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the lid (50) seals the upper edge of the container (41) and is detachably coupled to the container (41). The lid cap (60) is detachably coupled to the lid (50) through the first steam discharge hole (58) formed in the central portion of the lid (50).

[0062] The lead (50) and lead cap (60) are described in detail with reference to FIGS. 4 to 8.

[0063] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a lid cap of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a lid cap of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which a lid and a lid cap of a food processor are coupled according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a lid and a lid cap of a food processor are coupled according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a plan view illustrating a state in which a lid and a lid cap of a food processor are coupled according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the lead cap (60) includes a stem (61), a stem projection (62), a vapor barrier (63), and an extension stem (64).

[0065] The stem (61) extends downward from the steam blocking member (63) and is inserted into the first steam discharge hole (58) of the lid (50). The stem (61) is installed so as to form a gap with the first steam discharge hole (58). This is to allow steam generated during the process of heating food ingredients by the heating member (20) inside the container (41) to be discharged to the outside of the lid (50) through the gap between the stem (61) and the first steam discharge hole (58).

[0066] To this end, in this embodiment, the first steam discharge hole (58) is configured in a circular shape, and the stem (61) is configured to have a cross-section of approximately a square. However, if a gap can be formed between the first steam discharge hole (58) and the stem (61), the shapes of the first steam discharge hole (58) and the stem (61) can be modified in various ways.

[0067] The stem protrusion (62) may be formed to protrude on both sides of the stem (61). The stem protrusion (62) is configured to secure the lead cap (60) to the lead (50). A detailed description thereof will be provided later.

[0068] The vapor barrier (63) covers the upper part of the stem (61) and is formed to extend laterally.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 8, the vapor blocking member (63) is positioned above the first vapor discharge hole (58), and can cover the entire vertically upward portion of the first vapor discharge hole (58) so that the first vapor discharge hole (58) is not visible when viewed from above. This is to ensure that the vapor discharged through the first vapor discharge hole (58) is retained and condensed by the vapor blocking member (63). In order to enhance the vapor retention effect, the vapor blocking member (63) can be formed with a curvature that forms a downward slope toward the edge. That is, the vapor blocking member (63) can have an umbrella shape that is convex upward overall.

[0070] Referring to Fig. 8, the vapor barrier (63) may be formed to have different lengths in the horizontal and vertical directions. For example, the vapor barrier (63) may be formed in an oval shape, as illustrated in Fig. 8.

[0071] The steam blocking member (63) may be composed of a first steam blocking member (63a) forming a long axis and a second steam blocking member (63b) forming a short axis.

[0072] The first vapor barrier (63a) may be supported on the upper surface of the lid (50). The lid cap (60) may be fixed to the lid (50) such that the first vapor barrier (63a) is supported on the upper surface of the lid (50) and the stem projection (62) is supported on the lower surface of the lid (50). For the secure fixation of the lid cap (60), the stem projection (62) may be configured to be positioned at the lower portion of the first vapor barrier (63a).

[0073] Referring to Fig. 6, the second vapor barrier (63b) can be formed to be spaced apart from the upper surface of the lid (50). A vapor discharge space (57) is formed between the upper surface of the lid (50) and the second vapor barrier (63b).

[0074] The steam discharged through the first steam discharge hole (58) remains at the bottom of the steam blocking member (63), some of which is condensed and liquefied, and the non-liquefied steam is discharged through the steam discharge space (57).

[0075] Referring to FIG. 5, the extension stem (64) extends upward from the vapor barrier (63).

[0076] The extension stem (64) can be used as a handle during the process of installing / disassembling the lead cap (60) onto the lead (50). To enhance grip, the extension stem (64) can be formed to have a shape that expands laterally as it goes upward. The extension stem (64) can be accommodated within the second steam discharge hole (94) of the upper cover (90).

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 6, the lead (50) may include a rim (51), an insertion portion (52), a sealing member (53), a side portion (54), an upper portion (55), an inclined portion (56), and a first steam discharge hole (58).

[0078] The rim (51) is formed to be seated at the top edge of the receiving tank (41).

[0079] The insertion portion (52) is formed to extend downward from the rim (51). The insertion portion (52) is inserted into the interior of the receiving tank (41) and comes into contact with or is in close contact with the inner wall of the receiving tank (41).

[0080] The sealing member (53) is installed on the outside of the insertion portion (52) and is in close contact with the inner wall of the receiving tank (41). The sealing member (53) improves the sealing force between the lid (50) and the receiving tank (41), thereby preventing liquid or vapor from being discharged between the lid (50) and the receiving tank (41).

[0081] The side portion (54) is formed to extend upward from the rim (51). The side portion (54) may be formed to extend so as to form an upwardly oblique slope. In other words, the side portion (54) may be formed to have a shape in which the diameter decreases as it goes upward. This is to ensure that the vapor rising from the receiving tank (41) is condensed and liquefied in the side portion (54) and then falls back into the receiving tank (41). This can minimize moisture evaporation during the food processing process.

[0082] The upper surface (55) is formed to extend inward from the side surface (54).

[0083] The inclined portion (56) forms a downward slope from the upper surface (55) and extends to the first steam discharge hole (58).

[0084] The space formed by the side portion (54), the upper portion (55), and the inclined portion (56) is positioned higher than the first steam discharge hole (58). Therefore, the steam entering the space formed by the side portion (54), the upper portion (55), and the inclined portion (56) remains in the space to be discharged to the first steam discharge hole (58), and the condensate liquefied during the retention process falls back into the receiving tank (41), thereby minimizing moisture evaporation during the food processing process.

[0085] Also, referring to Fig. 6, the space formed by the inclined portion (56) can form a space in which a lead cap (60) is accommodated. The first vapor barrier (63a) can be supported by the inclined portion (56), and the vapor discharge space (57) can be formed between the inclined portion (56) and the second vapor barrier (63b).

[0086] Referring to Fig. 7, the lead (50) includes a joining groove (59) that is formed by being recessed from the first steam discharge hole (58). The joining groove (59) is a space into which the stem protrusion (62) of the lead cap (60) is inserted.

[0087] A guide groove (59a) extending from the coupling groove (59) on the lower surface of the lead (50) can be formed to guide the stem projection (62) in the coupling direction.

[0088] The lead cap (60) is coupled to the lead (50) in such a way that when the stem projection (62) is inserted into the coupling groove (59) and the lead cap (60) is rotated in the coupling direction, the stem projection (62) moves a certain distance along the guide groove (59a). The lead cap (60) can be coupled to the lead (50) by rotating approximately 90 degrees from the position where the stem projection (62) is inserted into the coupling groove (59).

[0089] Referring to Fig. 7, after the lead cap (60) is coupled to the lead (50), the coupling groove (59) is opened. Accordingly, the condensed water condensed in the vapor barrier (63) can fall to the inclined portion (56) and then flow along the inclined portion (56) to the coupling groove (59) and into the interior of the receiving tank (41).

[0090] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating the internal structure of an upper cover of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 9, the upper cover (90) may include a first coupling hook (96b) provided to be exposed downward on one side and a second coupling hook (96a) provided to be exposed downward on the other side. The first coupling hook (96b) and the second coupling hook (96a) may be exposed through the first lower surface (91) of the upper cover (90).

[0092] A first hook groove (31b) to which a first coupling hook (96b) is coupled and a second hook groove (31a) to which a second coupling hook (96a) is coupled may be formed on the upper surface of the cover receiving portion (30).

[0093] The first coupling hook (96b) and the second coupling hook (96a) can be elastically supported by an elastic member such as a spring, respectively, and the elastic member can provide an elastic force to move the first coupling hook (96b) and the second coupling hook (96a) to the coupling positions with respect to the first hook groove (31b) and the second hook groove (31a), respectively.

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 9, the upper cover (90) may include a first unlock protrusion (95b) provided to be exposed downward on one side and a second unlock protrusion (95a) provided to be exposed downward on the other side. The first unlock protrusion (95b) and the second unlock protrusion (95a) may be exposed through the first lower surface (91) of the upper cover (90).

[0095] A first unlock groove (32b) through which a first unlock protrusion (95b) passes and a second unlock groove (32a) through which a second unlock protrusion (95a) passes may be formed on the upper surface of the cover receiving portion (30). When the upper cover (90) is in a closed state, an end of the first unlock protrusion (95b) may pass through the first unlock groove (32b) and be positioned on the inside of the cover receiving portion (30), and an end of the second unlock protrusion (95a) may pass through the second unlock groove (32a) and be positioned on the inside of the cover receiving portion (30).

[0096] Referring to FIG. 9, the inner side of the upper cover (90) is provided with a first connecting rod (97b) that connects the first unlocking protrusion (95b) and the first coupling hook (96b), and a second connecting rod (97a) that connects the second unlocking protrusion (95a) and the second coupling hook (96a).

[0097] Accordingly, since the first engagement hook (96b) and the first unlocking protrusion (95b) are linked and moved, the first engagement hook (96b) can be moved from the engaged position to the released position by moving the first unlocking protrusion (95b). Similarly, since the second engagement hook (96a) and the second unlocking protrusion (95a) are linked and moved, the second engagement hook (96a) can be moved from the engaged position to the released position by moving the second unlocking protrusion (95a).

[0098] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a first side cover, a second side cover, and a side cover driving unit of a food processor according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating an upper portion of a food processor according to an embodiment of the present invention in an assembled state, FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating a lower portion of a food processor according to an embodiment of the present invention in an assembled state, and FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which an upper cover is removed in a closed state of a food processor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 12, the first side cover (70) can be formed in the shape of an arc of approximately 180 degrees. On one side of the first side cover (70), a first lower flap (71) and a first upper flap (72) are arranged vertically, and a first slit (73) that is formed to be sunken from one side is formed between the first lower flap (71) and the first upper flap (72).

[0100] Referring to FIG. 13, when the first side cover (70) is in a closed state, the first lower flap (71) is located between the handle (42) and the receiving tank (41), the first upper flap (72) is located above the handle (42), and the first slit (73) receives the handle (42) so that the handle (42) passes through it.

[0101] A first unlock tab (74) is formed at the top of the first side cover (70) to have a step.

[0102] The first unlock tab (74) enters the cover receiving portion (30) when the first side cover (70) moves from a closed state to an open state and pushes the first unlock protrusion (95b, see FIG. 9) located on the inside of the cover receiving portion (30). As the first unlock protrusion (95b) moves from a coupled position to a released position by the first unlock tab (74), the first coupling hook (96b) also moves from a coupled position to a released position, thereby enabling the upper cover (90) to be switched to an open state.

[0103] The first upper flap (72) may include a protruding portion (72a) extending forward. The protruding portion (72a) allows a user to easily move the first side cover (70) from a closed state to an open state. The user can move the first side cover (70) from a closed state to an open state by pushing the protruding portion (72a) formed perpendicular to the rotation axis of the first side cover (70).

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 12, the second side cover (80) can be formed in the shape of an arc of approximately 180 degrees. On the other side of the second side cover (80), a second lower flap (81) and a second upper flap (82) are arranged vertically, and a second slit (83) that is formed to be sunken from one side is formed between the second lower flap (81) and the second upper flap (82).

[0105] Referring to Fig. 13, when the second side cover (80) is in the closed state, the second upper flap (82) is located above the handle (42). Also, although not shown, the second lower flap (81) is located between the handle (42) and the container (41), and the second slit (83) accommodates the handle (42) so that the handle (42) passes through it.

[0106] When the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) are in the closed state, the first lower flap (71) and the second lower flap (81) overlap forwardly, and the first upper flap (72) and the second upper flap (82) overlap forwardly. The first upper flap (72) having the protrusion (72a) formed thereon may be positioned forward of the second upper flap (82).

[0107] The first upper flap (72) and the second upper flap (82) can be accommodated in the flap accommodation groove (93) formed on the second lower surface of the upper cover (90) in an overlapping state.

[0108] In the closed state, the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) overlap with the handle (42) as the center, so that the noise blocking effect is increased and the heat retention effect is increased by minimizing the leakage of heat provided from the heating part (20).

[0109] In addition, since the handle (42) is accommodated in the first slit (73) of the first side cover (70) and the second slit (83) of the second side cover (80) in the closed state, the upper, lower, left, and right sides of the handle (42) are all supported by the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80), and vibration of the container (40) can be suppressed more effectively.

[0110] A second unlock tab (84) is formed at the top of the second side cover (80) to have a step.

[0111] The second unlock tab (84) enters the cover receiving portion (30) when the second side cover (80) moves from the closed state to the open state and pushes the second unlock protrusion (95a, see FIG. 9) located on the inside of the cover receiving portion (30). As the second unlock protrusion (95a) moves from the engaging position to the releasing position by the second unlock tab (84), the second engaging hook (96a) also moves from the engaging position to the releasing position, so that the upper cover (90) can be switched to the open state.

[0112] When both the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) move from the closed state to the open state, the coupling between the upper cover (90) and the cover receiving portion (30) is released by the interaction of the first unlock tab (74), the first unlock protrusion (95b), and the first coupling hook (96b) and the interaction of the second unlock tab (84), the second unlock protrusion (95a), and the second coupling hook (96a). Thereafter, the upper cover (90) is automatically switched to the open state by elastic force.

[0113] That is, as the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) move from the closed state to the open state, the upper cover (90) automatically switches from the closed state to the open state.

[0114] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 12, the first side cover (70) is coupled to the first moving part (120), and the second side cover (80) is coupled to the second moving part (130). The first moving part (120) and the second moving part (130) are movably coupled to the linkage part (140).

[0115] The first moving part (120) may be configured in a ring shape, and the first side cover (70) is fixed to one side of the first moving part (120) and is switched between a closed state and an open state by rotation of the first moving part (120).

[0116] A fixing groove (122) into which a fixing pin (114, see FIG. 14) described later is inserted may be formed on one side of the first moving part (120). A first gear (121) that meshes with a linkage gear part (142) may be formed on the side of the first moving part (120).

[0117] The second moving part (130) may also be configured in a ring shape, and the second side cover (80) is fixed to the other side of the second moving part (130) and is switched between a closed state and an open state by the rotation of the second moving part (130).

[0118] A second gear (131) that meshes with a linkage gear (142) can be formed on the side of the second moving part (130).

[0119] The linkage (140) may have a circular guide receiving groove (141) formed on the upper surface to accommodate the first moving part (120) and the second moving part (130) and guide the movement of the first moving part (120) and the second moving part (130). The linkage (140) may include a linkage gear part (142) installed adjacent to the guide receiving groove (141).

[0120] The linkage gear unit (142) allows the movement of the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) to be linked. The linkage gear unit (142) may have a gear structure such that when the first side cover (70) moves from a closed state to an open state, the second side cover (80) also moves from a closed state to an open state, and when the first side cover (70) moves from an open state to a closed state, the second side cover (80) also moves from an open state to a closed state. That is, the linkage gear unit (142) may allow when one of the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) rotates in one direction, the other one rotates in the opposite direction.

[0121] Accordingly, simply by moving only the first side cover (70) from the closed state to the open state, the second side cover (80) moves from the closed state to the open state, and as the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) move from the closed state to the open state, the upper cover (90) is automatically moved from the closed state to the open state as described above. That is, simply by moving only the first side cover (70) from the closed state to the open state, the second side cover (80) and the upper cover (90) are also switched from the closed state to the open state, thereby greatly improving user convenience.

[0122] Referring to Fig. 11, the first moving part (120) and the second moving part (130) can be installed in a stacked manner within the guide receiving groove (141). For example, the second moving part (130) can be located below the first moving part (120).

[0123] Referring to FIG. 11, the first side cover (70) may be provided on the outside of the second side cover, and the movement path of the first side cover (70) and the movement path of the second side cover (80) may be configured so as not to intersect each other to prevent mutual interference between the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80).

[0124] Referring to FIG. 12, the linkage (140) may include an elastic member (143) that stores elastic force when the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) are positioned in an open state. That is, the elastic member (143) may provide elastic force so that the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) move from an open state to a closed state. The elastic member (143) may be a spring that contracts when the first moving part (120) moves from a closed state to an open state.

[0125] Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing an upper cover linkage, etc. of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0126] Referring to Fig. 14, an opening / closing detection unit (111) and a fixing pin (114) that operate in conjunction with the opening / closing of the upper cover (90) are provided inside the cover receiving portion (30).

[0127] The end of the open / close detection unit (111) is exposed through the upper surface of the cover receiving unit (30) (see Fig. 13). The open / close detection unit (111) is lowered by the first lower surface (91) when the upper cover (90) is in the closed state, and is raised by the elastic force of the elastic member (115) when the upper cover (90) is in the open state.

[0128] In conjunction with the lifting and lowering operation of the opening and closing detection unit (111), the fixing pin (114) is lowered and inserted into the fixing groove (122) when the upper cover (90) is in the open state, and is raised and removed from the fixing groove (122) when the upper cover (90) is in the closed state.

[0129] As an example, the opening / closing detection unit (111) and the fixed pin (114) can be connected to each side of a link (113) that performs a seesaw motion around the rotation axis (112), and can be linked as described above.

[0130] The fixed pin (114) can be provided with elastic force in the downward direction by the elastic member (116).

[0131] FIG. 15 is a drawing for explaining the switching operation between the open state and the closed state of a food processor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0132] When the first side cover (70), the second side cover (80), and the upper cover (90) are in the open state, the fixing pin (114) is inserted into the fixing groove (122) to prevent the first moving part (120) from moving to the closed state by the elastic force of the elastic member (143, see FIG. 12). Since the movement of the first moving part (120) is restricted, the second moving part (130) also maintains the open state. Accordingly, as long as the upper cover (90) maintains the open state, the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) also maintain the open state.

[0133] When the user switches the upper cover (90) from the open state to the closed state (C1), the open / close detection unit (111) descends and the fixing pin (114) rises and is released from the fixing groove (122). The first moving unit (120) and the second moving unit (130) are moved to the closed state by the elastic force of the elastic member (143, see FIG. 12), so that the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) are switched from the open state to the closed state (C2).

[0134] That is, by simply switching the upper cover (90) from an open state to a closed state, the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) are automatically switched from an open state to a closed state.

[0135] When the first side cover (70), the second side cover (80), and the upper cover (90) are in a closed state, the user moves the first side cover (70) from the closed state to the open state using the protrusion (72a), and the second side cover (80) moves from the closed state to the open state in conjunction with the first side cover (70) (O1).

[0136] When both the first side cover (70) and the second side cover (80) move from the closed state to the open state, the coupling between the upper cover (90) and the cover receiving portion (30) is released by the interaction of the first unlock tab (74), the first unlock protrusion (95b), and the first coupling hook (96b) and the interaction of the second unlock tab (84), the second unlock protrusion (95a), and the second coupling hook (96a). Thereafter, the upper cover (90) is automatically switched to the open state by elastic force (O2).

[0137] That is, by simply switching the first side cover (70) from a closed state to an open state, the upper cover (90) and the second side cover (80) are automatically switched from a closed state to an open state.

[0138] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without altering its technical spirit or essential characteristics. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims below rather than the detailed description above, and all changes or modifications derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and their equivalents should be construed as being included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A container including a receiving tank opened upward and a handle formed to protrude from the receiving tank; A lid coupled to the tank so as to cover the upper portion of the tank and having a first steam discharge hole formed in the central portion; A lead cap coupled to the lead so as to cover the first steam discharge hole; A body in which the container is mounted so that the handle is positioned at the front; A heating unit provided in the main body to surround the lower part of the tank and heat the food material in the tank; A cover receiving portion formed to extend upward from the main body so as to be located at the rear of the receiving tank; A first side cover configured to be retractable from one side of the cover receiving portion to open or close one side of the receiving tank; A second side cover that is provided to be retractable from the other side of the cover receiving portion to open or close the other side of the receiving tank; and An upper cover rotatably provided on the upper portion of the cover receiving portion to receive the receiving tank, the lead and the lead cap, and to open and close the upper portion of the receiving space surrounded by the cover receiving portion, the first side cover and the second side cover; The above lead cap, A stem penetrating the first steam discharge hole, Stem projections formed on both sides of the stem and joined to the lead, It includes an oval-shaped vapor barrier that covers the upper part of the above stem and extends laterally to cover the upper part of the first vapor discharge hole. The above leads, A joining groove formed by sinking from the first steam discharge hole and into which the stem projection is inserted; and It includes a guide groove extending from the above joining groove to the lower surface of the lead and guiding the stem projection in the joining direction, The above steam barrier, A first vapor barrier formed along the longitudinal axis of the vapor barrier and supported on the upper surface of the lead; and A second vapor barrier is formed by forming a shortened portion of the above vapor barrier and is located on the upper portion of the above joining groove and spaced apart from the upper surface of the lead to form a vapor discharge space. Some of the steam discharged between the above stem and the first steam discharge hole is discharged through the steam discharge space, and the other part is condensed and liquefied by the first steam blocking part and the second steam blocking part and then flows into the interior of the receiving tank through the joining groove. The above first side cover, In a state where the first side cover closes one side of the container, the container comprises a first lower flap positioned between the handle and the container, a first upper flap positioned above the handle, and a first slit provided between the first upper flap and the first lower flap and through which the handle passes. The above second side cover, In a state where the second side cover closes the other side of the container, the second lower flap is positioned between the handle and the container, the second upper flap is positioned above the handle, and the second slit is provided between the second upper flap and the second lower flap and through which the handle passes. In a state where the first side cover closes one side of the tank and the second side cover closes the other side of the tank, The above first lower flap and the above second lower flap overlap each other toward the front. The above first upper flap and the above second upper flap overlap forward, The lower part of the upper cover is The first lower surface in contact with the upper surface of the cover receiving portion, Including a second lower surface in contact with the first side cover and the second side cover, The second lower surface forms a step with the first lower surface, and a flap receiving groove is formed on the second lower surface to receive the first upper flap and the second upper flap. The first side cover is moved to close one side of the tank in conjunction with the movement of the second side cover to close the other side of the tank, The first side cover is moved to open one side of the tank in conjunction with the movement of the second side cover to open the other side of the tank, In a state where the first side cover closes one side of the receiving tank and the second side cover closes the other side of the receiving tank, at least one of the first side cover and the second side cover is elastically supported, and in conjunction with the operation of the upper cover opening the receiving space, the first side cover and the second side cover are moved by elastic force to close one side and the other side of the receiving tank. A food processor, wherein the upper cover is elastically supported while the upper cover closes the receiving space, and the upper cover is moved by elastic force to open the receiving space in conjunction with the operation of the first side cover opening one side of the receiving tank and the operation of the second side cover opening the other side of the receiving tank.

2. In paragraph 1, A food processor, wherein the upper cover has a second steam exhaust hole formed in the upper portion of the lid cap through which steam is exhausted.

3. In paragraph 2, A food processor, wherein the second steam discharge hole penetrates the first lower surface and the second lower surface.

4. In paragraph 2, A food processor, wherein the lead cap further includes an extension stem extending upwardly from the vapor barrier and accommodated within the second vapor discharge hole.

5. In paragraph 1, In a state where the first side cover closes one side of the tank and the second side cover closes the other side of the tank, The above first upper flap is positioned forward of the above second upper flap, A food processor, wherein the first upper flap further comprises a protrusion extending forward.

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