Cooking apparatus

Abstract

A cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a case; a heating unit disposed inside the case; and a top plate which is mounted on the case to shield the heating unit from above and on which a container for cooking is seated, wherein a container guide indicating a seating position of the container is formed on the upper surface of the top plate at a position corresponding to the heating unit, and a plurality of guide patterns, which come into contact with the bottom surface of the container, are radially formed toward the container guide on the basis of the center of the container guide.

Description

Cooking appliances

[0001] The present invention relates to a cooking appliance.

[0002] Cooking appliances are a type of home appliance used for cooking food. They are installed in the kitchen and cook food according to the user's preferences. These cooking appliances can be categorized in various ways based on the heat source, form, or type of fuel used.

[0003] Among these cooking appliances, there's the cooktop, which heats the food by placing it on a surface and utilizing a heat source below. Depending on the heat source, cooktops can utilize gas burners powered by gas combustion, radiants powered by electric heaters, or induction heating. Radiants and induction, in particular, are favored by users for their aesthetic appeal, as they prevent direct exposure to the heat source, and they don't produce combustion gases.

[0004] However, in the case of radiant and induction cooktops, if the cooking container is not placed in the correct position on the top, the heating efficiency will decrease.

[0005] Also, if there is moisture on the top plate, there is a problem that the container may move during the process of heating the water on the top plate even if the container is placed in the correct position.

[0006] In addition, there is a problem that the container can easily move while cooking while placed on the top plate, causing it to deviate from the correct heating position.

[0007] As a structure to prevent such problems, U.S. Patent No. 1175159 discloses an induction cooktop, in which a groove is formed on the upper surface of the cooktop into which a silicone pad can be placed, and a structure is disclosed in which a container is placed on the silicone pad.

[0008] This structure can prevent the container from slipping and ensure that the container is maintained in the correct position for heating.

[0009] However, the cooktop suffers from poor cleanability when food gets stuck in the grooves formed on the cooktop. Furthermore, the size of the grooves or pads on the cooktop limits the size of the containers that can be used. Furthermore, the need to find and place the appropriate pad for each container reduces usability.

[0010] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a cooking appliance having a pattern formed thereon that can prevent scratching and slipping of the top plate.

[0011] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a cooking appliance having a top plate having a pattern formed thereon so that the container can be easily aligned at an accurate position for heating.

[0012] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a cooking appliance having a pattern formed thereon that prevents a container from moving away from the center of a heating element of a top plate and allows the container to be easily moved toward the center of the heating element.

[0013] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a cooking appliance having a pattern formed on a top plate so as not to deteriorate the heating performance of various heat sources.

[0014] A cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a case; a heating unit disposed inside the case; and a top plate mounted on the case to shield the heating unit from above and on which a container for cooking is placed; wherein a container guide is formed on an upper surface of the top plate to indicate a position of placement of the container at a position corresponding to the heating unit, and a plurality of guide guides are formed radially toward the container guide based on the center of the container guide, and a guide pattern that is in contact with the bottom surface of the container may be formed.

[0015] The above guide pattern can be formed from the same material as the top plate.

[0016] The above top plate is formed of ceramic glass, and the guide pattern can be formed by super-sensitive printing.

[0017] The above container guide and the above guide pattern can be formed of the same material.

[0018] A plurality of the above guide patterns can be arranged in rotation at regular intervals from the center to the container guide.

[0019] The above guide pattern is formed in a polygonal shape having at least one vertex, and the vertex may be arranged so as to face the outside of the container guide.

[0020] The illuminance of the above guide pattern can be formed to be greater than the illuminance of the above top plate.

[0021] The above guide pattern may have at least one vertex formed by two sides coming into contact, and the vertex may be arranged to face away from the center.

[0022] A plurality of guide patterns are continuously arranged along an extension line extending radially from the center, and the vertices of the plurality of guide patterns can face the same direction.

[0023] A plurality of guide patterns are rotated and arranged based on the center, and the vertices of the plurality of guide patterns can face different directions.

[0024] The number of guide patterns at locations far from the center may be greater than the number of guide patterns at locations close to the center.

[0025] A plurality of the above guide patterns may be rotated and arranged at regular intervals based on the center, and may be formed to have a larger area as they get farther away from the center.

[0026] A plurality of the above guide patterns are rotated and arranged at regular intervals based on the center, and a greater number of guide patterns can be formed as they move away from the center.

[0027] The above guide pattern can be formed by a plurality of circles having different diameters and being concentric with the center.

[0028] The distance between the guide patterns and neighboring guide patterns may become narrower as the guide patterns move away from the center.

[0029] A portion of the above guide pattern may be short-circuited to form a drainage portion through which water or foreign matter on the top plate passes.

[0030] The above heating unit may be a radiant burner including a heating coil that generates heat by electrical resistance.

[0031] The above heating coil is formed of a plurality of circles with different diameters, and the guide pattern can be placed between the plurality of circles.

[0032] The above guide pattern can be formed so that the radiant light of the heating unit is transmitted through it.

[0033] The above heating unit may be an induction burner that heats the container by induced electromotive force.

[0034] The following effects can be expected from the cooking appliance according to the proposed embodiment.

[0035] In a cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention, a protruding guide pattern is formed on the inside of a container guide on which a container is placed, so that scratches on the top plate can be prevented even when the container is repeatedly placed and moved.

[0036] In addition, a space is formed between the top plate and the container by the protruding height of the guide pattern, which has the advantage of preventing the container from slipping or moving during cooking even if moisture exists on the top plate.

[0037] In addition, the roughness of the above guide pattern is formed to be higher than that of the top plate, which has the advantage of more effectively preventing slipping of the container.

[0038] In addition, the above guide patterns are arranged radially in multiple numbers from the center of the container guide, and there is an advantage in that the container can be maintained in an aligned state within the container guide by the shape of the guide pattern and the arrangement of the guide pattern.

[0039] In particular, the guide pattern has a shape and arrangement that relatively increases friction when the container moves away from the center of the container guide, thereby limiting the container from moving away from the container guide during cooking.

[0040] In addition, the above guide pattern has a shape and arrangement that relatively reduces friction when the container is moved toward the center of the container guide, thereby providing the advantage of allowing the container to be moved more easily toward the center of the container guide. In addition, by reducing friction when the container is moved toward the center of the container guide, the food inside the container can be prevented from flowing and overflowing when the container is moved.

[0041] In addition, the above guide pattern is formed by super-printing, which has the advantage of enabling cooking without lowering the heating performance of the container regardless of the type of the lower heating section.

[0042] And, when the heating coil generates heat, the heating coil appears red through the top plate. At this time, the heating coil is not covered by the guide pattern, and therefore, the user has the advantage of being able to fully check the heating state of the heating coil when looking at the top plate from above. In addition, the heating coil glowing red can be seen through the top plate without being covered by the guide pattern, which can have an aesthetic effect.

[0043] Additionally, the radially arranged insulation pattern allows the user to more clearly visualize the center position of the heating element, which has the advantage of allowing the user to intuitively align and judge the center position of the heating element and the seating position of the container.

[0044] Figure 1 is a front view of a cooking appliance according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a cooktop according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the heating unit of the cooktop.

[0047] Figure 4 is a plan view of the top plate of the above cooktop.

[0048] Figure 5 is an enlarged view showing the arrangement of the guide pattern formed on the upper plate.

[0049] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a container mounted on the top plate.

[0050] Figure 7 is a drawing showing the change in frictional force when the container moves on the above-mentioned upper plate.

[0051] Fig. 8 is a plan view showing the arrangement relationship between the guide pattern and the heating coil.

[0052] Figure 9 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Fig. 10 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Fig. 11 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Fig. 12 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Fig. 13 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Fig. 14 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Fig. 15 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Fig. 16 is an exploded perspective view of a cooktop according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 17 is an enlarged view showing the arrangement of patterns formed on the top plate of the cooktop.

[0061] Fig. 18 is a plan view of the top plate of a cooktop according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Fig. 19 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to the 11th embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments that present the spirit of the present invention, and other regressive inventions or embodiments within the scope of the present invention can be easily proposed by adding, modifying, or deleting other components.

[0064] Before explaining, let's define the direction. In an embodiment of the present invention, based on the center of the cooking appliance shown in Fig. 1, the direction toward the oven door can be defined as front, the direction toward the main body based on the front of the door can be defined as rear, the direction toward the top plate can be defined as upward, and the direction away from the top plate can be defined as downward.

[0065] Figure 1 is a front view of a cooking appliance according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] As illustrated, a cooking appliance (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cooktop (20). For example, the cooking appliance (1) may be a composite cooking appliance (1) including the cooktop (20) and an oven section (10), and the cooktop (20) may be placed above the oven section (10). Of course, the cooking appliance (1) may be composed of the cooktop (20) alone, may be built-in to a piece of furniture such as a sink, or may be placed as a freestanding type.

[0067] Below, the structure of a composite cooking appliance in which the cooktop (20) is positioned above the oven section (10) will be described in detail.

[0068] The above oven section (10) may include a main body (11) having a cavity formed with an open front, and a door (12) connected to the main body (11) to open and close the cavity. The cavity forms a cooking space, and a heating source such as a heater or burner is placed to heat the cooking space and cook food.

[0069] And, the cooktop (20) can be placed above the oven section (10). The cooktop (20) can have a container (2 in FIG. 6) containing food for cooking placed on the top plate (23), and the container (2) can be heated by a heating section (22) placed below the top plate (23).

[0070] The above cooking appliance (1) may include an operation unit (30). For example, the operation unit (30) may be composed of a plurality of knobs (31) and may control the operation of the oven unit (10) and the cooktop (20). If necessary, the operation unit (30) may be composed of a button, a switch, or a touch operation device. The operation unit (30) may be placed on the cooktop (20). In addition, a display (32) that displays the operation status of the cooking appliance (1) may be provided on one side of the operation unit (30).

[0071] Below, the structure of the cooktop (20) is described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0072] Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a cooktop according to a first embodiment of the present invention. And, Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a heating unit of the cooktop.

[0073] As illustrated, the cooktop (20) may include a top plate (21), a heating unit (22), and a top plate (23). The top plate (21) is formed in a rectangular shape and may form the overall frame of the cooktop (20). In addition, the top plate (21) may provide a structure on which the heating unit (22) and the top plate (23) may be mounted.

[0074] For example, the top plate (21) may be formed of a metal material and may form the lower portion of the cooktop (20). In a structure in which the cooktop (20) is installed independently, the top plate (21) may form the exterior of the remaining portion of the cooktop (20) except for the upper surface. The top plate (21) may also be called a case.

[0075] The cooktop (20) may be provided with a mounting hole (212) for mounting the heating unit (22). The heating unit (22) may be positioned inside the mounting hole (212). A plurality of heating units (22) may be mounted on the cooktop (20). The mounting holes (212) may be formed in a number corresponding to the number of heating units (22) on the top plate (21).

[0076] The heating unit (22) may be mounted on the inside of the mounting hole (212) and may be fixedly mounted on the top plate (21). The heating unit (22) may be configured in various ways depending on the type of heat source. It may be configured to heat a container (2) placed on the upper surface of the top plate (23). The heating unit (22) may also be referred to as a burner unit. The heating unit (22) may be configured as at least one of a sealed burner, a radiant burner, or an induction burner depending on the heat source.

[0077] For example, the heating unit (22) may include a heating unit case (221) and a heating coil (223). The heating unit case (221) may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an open upper surface, and a heating coil (223) may be provided inside the mounting hole (212). The heating unit case (221) may include a circular bottom surface (221a) and a peripheral surface (221b) extending upward along the perimeter of the bottom surface (221a).

[0078] In addition, the heating coil (223) can be heated by power supply and heat the container (2). At this time, the heat generated from the heating coil (223) can pass through the upper plate (23) and heat the container (2) by radiation or conduction.

[0079] In detail, an insulating pad (222) may be provided inside the top plate (21). The insulating pad (222) may be placed on the inner lower surface of the heating unit case (221) and may be formed of an insulating material. Accordingly, heat may be prevented from being transferred downward when the heating coil (223) generates heat. In addition, the heating coil (223) may be placed on the upper surface of the insulating pad (222).

[0080] The above heating coil (223) is configured to generate heat by electrical resistance, and can be formed by winding multiple times in a circular shape with different inner diameters. In detail, the heating coil (223) is not formed in a perfect circular shape, but can have an overall circular shape.

[0081] The above heating coil (223) may have a repeatedly bent shape to increase the surface area and thus the heat generation amount. For example, the heating coil (223) may be repeatedly bent in a zigzag shape when viewed from above, and the overall shape may be a circular ring shape.

[0082] The heating coil (223) may be arranged so that the circular ring shapes with different diameters are concentric. The heating coil (223) may be mounted on the upper surface of the insulating pad (222) and may be supported by the insulating pad (222). In addition, the heating coil (223) may be configured to be divided into an inner coil (224) and an outer coil (225). Therefore, the amount of heat for heating the container (2) may be controlled and provided according to the combination of the on / off operations of the inner coil (224) and the outer coil (225).

[0083] A thermistor (227) may be provided on one side of the top plate (21). The thermistor (227) may be fixed to the circumferential surface (221b) of the top plate (21) and may extend toward the center of the heating coil (223). The thermistor (227) may extend across a portion of the heating coil (223) and may detect the temperature above the heating coil (223). The thermistor (227) may be connected to a switch that selectively cuts off power connected to the heating coil (223). Therefore, when the temperature of the heating unit (22) reaches a set temperature, the heating of the heating coil (223) may be stopped.

[0084] An insulating ring (226) may be provided on the upper end of the top plate (21). The insulating ring (226) may be formed of an insulating material and may be arranged along the upper end of the circumference of the top plate (21). In addition, the upper end of the insulating ring (226) may be in contact with the lower surface of the upper plate (23). Accordingly, the space between the top plate (21) and the upper plate (23) may be sealed, thereby preventing heat inside the top plate (21) from leaking out to the outside of the top plate (21).

[0085] Meanwhile, a top plate (23) may be mounted on the upper surface of the cooktop (20). The top plate (23) forms the upper surface of the cooktop (20) and, when mounted, may shield the heating unit (22) from above. For mounting the top plate (23), a bottom-sunken top plate mounting portion (211) may be formed on the upper surface of the top plate (21). The top plate mounting portion (211) may be sunken to a size corresponding to that of the top plate (23). In addition, the sunken depth of the top plate mounting portion (211) may correspond to the thickness of the top plate (23). In addition, a plurality of mounting holes (212) may be located in an inner region of the top plate mounting portion (211).

[0086] Fig. 4 is a plan view of the top plate of the cooktop. Fig. 5 is an enlarged view showing the arrangement of the guide pattern formed on the top plate.

[0087] The above top plate (23) is formed in a flat shape to form the upper surface of the cooktop (20) and at the same time, a container (2) for heating can be placed thereon. Therefore, the top plate (23) can be formed of a material that can be molded into a plate shape having heat resistance and high flatness. For example, the top plate (23) can be formed of heat-resistant glass, tempered glass, ceramic glass, etc. In addition, the top plate (23) can be formed to be opaque so as to shield the internal structure of the top plate (21). In addition, the top plate (23) can be formed to have a smooth surface so as to prevent contamination and discoloration and maintain excellent cleanability.

[0088] In addition, a container guide (232) may be formed on the upper plate (23) at a position corresponding to the heating unit (22). The container guide (232) is formed vertically above the heating unit (22) and may be formed along the circumference of the heating unit (22). For example, the container guide (232) may be formed in a circular shape corresponding to the heating unit (22). As another example, the container guide (232) may be formed in a circular shape corresponding to the circumference of the heating coil (223). Therefore, when a user places the container (2) within the container guide (232), the heating unit (22) can effectively heat the container (2).

[0089] The container guide (232) may be formed by surface processing of the upper plate (23). For example, the container guide (232) may be formed by printing on the upper plate (23). The container guide (232) may be printed by super-printing and may be firmly attached to the upper plate (23) of the same material. The container guide (232) may be formed in a color different from that of the upper plate (23) so that the user can easily identify it with the naked eye. In addition, the container guide (232) may be formed of the same material as the guide pattern (233) to be described below. In addition, the container guide (232) may be formed lower than the height of the guide pattern (233). In another example, the container guide (232) may be formed in an identifiable form on the upper plate by direct attachment, surface processing, or other methods other than printing.

[0090] The above guide pattern (233) is intended to guide the container (2) to be aligned within the container guide (232), and a plurality of the guide patterns (233) may be arranged in the inner region of the container guide (232). That is, a plurality of the guide patterns (233) may be arranged within the container guide (232). In addition, the plurality of guide patterns (233) may be formed to have a directionality from the center of the container guide (232) toward the container guide (232).

[0091] The above guide pattern (233) can be formed by super-printing and can protrude further than the upper surface of the upper plate (23). Therefore, when the container (2) is placed on the upper plate (23), the lower surface of the container (2) can come into contact with the guide pattern (233).

[0092] At this time, due to the height of the guide pattern (233), the lower surface of the container (2) can be slightly spaced apart from the upper surface of the upper plate (23). Therefore, even if water exists between the container (2) and the upper plate (23) while the container (2) is seated on the upper plate, the container (2) can be prevented from flowing due to bubbles of the heated water. In addition, a spaced space is formed between the plurality of guide patterns (233), so that the water of the upper plate (23) can be easily discharged, and foreign substances can be easily discharged during cleaning. The spaced portion between the guide patterns (233) may also be called a drainage portion (234).

[0093] The roughness (R3) of the guide pattern (233) may be formed to be greater than the roughness (R2) of the upper plate (23). In detail, the roughness (R3) of the guide pattern (233) may be formed to be greater than the roughness (R3) of a portion of the inner surface (235) of the upper plate (23) where the guide pattern (233) is not formed. Accordingly, when the bottom surface of the container (2) is in contact with the guide pattern (233), the container (2) may be prevented from leaving the guide by the frictional force between the container (2) and the guide pattern (233). In addition, the roughness (R3) of the guide pattern (233) may be formed to be greater than the roughness (R1) of the outer surface (231) of the upper plate (23). At this time, the roughness (R1) of the outer surface (231) of the upper plate (23) may be formed to be greater than the roughness (R2) of the inner surface (235) of the upper plate (23). Therefore, in a state where the container (2) is secured to the upper plate (23), the container (2) can be restricted from leaving the container guide (232) by the frictional force of the guide pattern (233).

[0094] In addition, the guide pattern (233) may be formed in multiple radial directions from the center of the heating unit (22), i.e., the center (C) of the container guide (232). The multiple guide patterns (233) may be arranged continuously in a direction away from the center (C) inside the container guide (232). That is, the center of the heating unit (22) and the center of the container guide (232) may be at the same position when viewed from above.

[0095] At this time, the sizes of the plurality of guide patterns (233) may be the same. Accordingly, the number of guide patterns (233) formed inside the container guide (232) may be smaller as it gets closer to the center (C) of the heating unit (22), and may increase as it goes outward.

[0096] In addition, the guide pattern (233) is arranged in a polygonal shape and may be arranged to have directionality. In detail, the guide pattern (233) has at least two sides (233a, 233b), and a vertex (233c) where the two sides (233a, 233b) meet may be formed. At this time, the vertex (233c) may be located on an extension line (L) extending radially outward from the center (C) of the container guide (232). In addition, the vertex (233c) may be arranged to face the outside of the container guide (232).

[0097] For example, the guide pattern (233) may be formed in a triangular shape. At this time, it may be an isosceles triangle in which two sides (233a, 233b) have the same length. The length of the two sides (233a, 233b) may be formed longer than the length of the remaining side, and the angle between the two sides (233a, 233b) may form an acute angle. The plurality of guide patterns (233) may be aligned in a rotational direction with the center (C) of the container guide (232) as an axis. In addition, among the extension lines (L) extending radially from the center (C) of the container guide (232), the guide patterns (233) positioned on the same extension line (L) may be arranged so that all of the vertices (233c) face the same direction.

[0098] Accordingly, when the container (2) is seated on the upper plate (23) so as to be in contact with the guide pattern (233), the container (2) can be prevented from moving out of the container guide (232) due to frictional force with the guide pattern (233), and the container (2) can be aligned inside the container guide (232).

[0099] Below, the operation of the cooking appliance (1) having the above structure will be examined in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0100] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a container mounted on the upper plate. Fig. 7 is a drawing showing changes in frictional force when the container moves on the upper plate.

[0101] As illustrated, in order to cook food, the user places the container (2) on the top plate. At this time, the user can recognize the exact position of the heating unit (22) through the container guide (232), and place the container (2) on the top plate (23) so that it is positioned on the container guide (232).

[0102] When the container (2) is placed on the container guide (232), the bottom surface of the container (2) comes into contact with the guide pattern (233). At this time, due to the height of the guide pattern (233), the bottom of the container (2) may be somewhat spaced apart from the upper plate (23). Therefore, even if there is water between the container (2) and the upper plate (23), the container (2) may not flow, and water or foreign substances may be discharged through the drainage portion (235) between the guide patterns (233).

[0103] Meanwhile, the container (2) can be maintained in a state of being positioned inside the container guide (232) without flowing due to the frictional force generated when in contact with the guide pattern (233). In addition, due to the shape characteristics of the guide pattern (233), the frictional force (FA) applied to the container (2) toward the outside of the container guide (232) can be relatively greater. Therefore, the container (2) can be prevented from slipping outside the container guide (232) and being separated from the outside of the container guide (232). In addition, by preventing the container (2) from slipping, the food in the container (2) can be prevented from sloshing or overflowing.

[0104] In detail, the guide pattern (233) may be arranged so that the vertex (233c) faces outward from the center of the container guide (232). At this time, the two sides (233a, 233b) of the guide pattern (233) may become closer together as they extend outward. Accordingly, when the container (2) is to be moved outward while in contact with the guide pattern (233), the shear force applied along the oblique sides (233a, 233b) on both sides is concentrated, thereby increasing the frictional force when the container (2) moves outward.

[0105] And, due to the shape characteristics of the guide pattern (233), when the container (2) moves toward the center (C) of the container guide (232), the frictional force (FB) can be applied relatively smaller. Therefore, the container (2) can be moved toward the center of the container guide (232) with less force and aligned with the heating unit (22). And, when the container (2) is heated by the heat generation of the heating unit (22), the bottom of the container (2) can be effectively heated without heat loss.

[0106] And, due to the arrangement and shape of the guide pattern (233) as described above, the container (2) can be restricted from flowing outwardly of the container guide (232). In particular, even if the water on the upper plate (23) boils and causes the container (2) to flow, the container (2) can be guided to be aligned toward the center (C) of the container guide (232) without being pushed outward.

[0107] Meanwhile, since the guide pattern (233) is formed by super-printing, it is not easily peeled off due to repeated friction with the container (2). In addition, since heat can be conducted through the guide pattern (233) when the heating coil (223) generates heat, heat loss due to the guide pattern (233) can be minimized. In addition, the guide pattern (233) can be protected from damage or peeling even when the upper plate is raised to a high temperature by a heating source because its heat resistance is secured.

[0108] In addition, the guide pattern (233) may be formed transparently or semi-transparently so that the radiant heat, i.e., radiant light generated when the heating coil (223) is heated can be transmitted.

[0109] Meanwhile, when looking at the arrangement of the guide pattern (233) with reference to FIG. 6, the outer end (Lb) of the guide pattern (233) located at the outermost side among the plurality of guide patterns (233) may be located further outward (away from the center of the heating unit) than the outer end (La) of the heating coil (223).

[0110] And, the outer end (Lb) of the guide pattern (233) may be formed at a position corresponding to the outer end (Lc) of the insulating pad (222) or the insulating ring (226). Of course, even if the outer end (Lb) of the guide pattern (233) does not exactly correspond to the outer end (Lc) of the insulating pad (222) or the insulating ring (226), it may be positioned on the outer or inner side adjacent to the position of the outer end (Lc) of the insulating pad (222) or the insulating ring (226). And, it may be said that the outer end (Lb) of the guide pattern (233) is formed at a position corresponding to the outer end of the heating unit (22).

[0111] Accordingly, the guide pattern (233) can simultaneously perform the display function of the container guide (232), and the container guide (232) can be omitted. Even when only the guide pattern (233) exists on the upper plate, the outer end (Lc) of the guide pattern (233) located at the outermost side substantially corresponds to the position of the end of the heating unit, and thus can function as the container guide (232).

[0112] Fig. 8 is a plan view showing the arrangement relationship between the guide pattern and the heating coil.

[0113] As illustrated, the guide pattern (233) can be positioned so as not to block the radiant heat generated from the heating coil (223).

[0114] In detail, the guide pattern (233) may be formed in an opaque color. Since the guide pattern (233) is radially arranged within the container guide (232), the user can easily recognize the center (C) of the container guide (232), i.e., the correct position of the heating unit (22), by visualizing the guide pattern (233), and can place the container (2) in alignment with the center (C) of the container guide (232).

[0115] At this time, the guide pattern (233) may be placed in the area between the heating coils (223) so as not to block the radiant heat of the heating coils (223). That is, when the upper plate (23) is viewed from above, the guide pattern (233) may be formed so as not to overlap with the heating coils (223).

[0116] The above guide patterns (233) are arranged radially from the center (C) of the container guide (232), and a plurality of them can be arranged at regular intervals in a direction away from the center (C) of the container guide (232). In addition, the heating coils (223) can be formed as a plurality of circles whose diameters gradually increase in a direction away from the center (C) of the heating part (22). In addition, the guide patterns (233) can be positioned between the heating coils (223) arranged at regular intervals. In addition, the length (L1) of the guide patterns (233) can be formed to be smaller than the length (L2) of the interval (223a) between the neighboring heating coils (223).

[0117] Accordingly, the radiant heat generated when the heating coil (223) is heated can be completely transmitted to the container (2) without being blocked by the guide pattern (233).

[0118] Meanwhile, the heating coil (223) may have a shape that is repeatedly bent overall. In detail, the heating coil (223) may have a pattern in which a shape that protrudes in the radial direction or is sunken in the center is repeated. When the upper plate is viewed from above, the guide pattern (232) may be arranged to be completely inserted between the adjacent heating coils (223). However, when considering practical matters such as formation on the heating coil (223), a part of the guide pattern (232) may appear to overlap with the heating coil (223).

[0119] Meanwhile, the present invention may have various other embodiments despite the aforementioned exceptions. Below, other embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Components not described below are identical to those of the aforementioned embodiments, and thus, to avoid redundancy, their detailed descriptions and illustrations may be omitted, and the same reference numerals may be used for description. In other words, below, only components that differ from the aforementioned embodiments will be described in detail.

[0120] Below, various other embodiments of the above guide pattern are described with reference to the drawings.

[0121] Figure 9 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0122] As illustrated, a circular container guide (232) may be formed on the top plate (23) of the cooking appliance (1) according to the second embodiment of the present invention at a position corresponding to the heating unit (22). Accordingly, when the heating unit (22) is operated while the container (2) is positioned on the container guide (232), the container (2) can be heated.

[0123] Meanwhile, in order to guide the container (2) to be aligned with the center of the heating unit (22), a plurality of guide patterns (1233) may be formed on the inside of the container guide (232). The guide patterns (1233) may be formed in a radial manner with respect to the center (C) of the container guide (232). In addition, the guide patterns (1233) may be continuously arranged in a plurality along an extension line (L) that extends radially outward from the center (C) of the container guide (232).

[0124] The above guide pattern (1233) may be formed by super-printing using the same or a similar material as the upper plate (23). Therefore, it may remain attached to the smooth upper plate (23) even in a high-temperature environment. In addition, the guide pattern (1233) may be printed on the upper plate (23) and protrude upward.

[0125] In addition, the illuminance of the guide pattern (1233) may be formed to be higher than the illuminance of the upper plate (23). At this time, the illuminance of the guide pattern (1233) may be formed to be higher than the illuminance of the inner surface (235) of the upper plate (23) and the illuminance of the outer surface (231) of the upper plate (23). Therefore, when the bottom surface of the container (2) is in contact with the guide pattern (1233), the container (2) can be prevented from slipping due to frictional force with the guide pattern (1233).

[0126] Meanwhile, a plurality of guide patterns (1233) may be arranged in a direction. For example, the guide pattern (1233) may be formed in a wedge-like shape. In detail, the guide pattern (1233) may include two inclined sides (1233a, 1233b). In addition, the ends of the two sides (1233a, 1233b) may be in contact with each other to form a vertex (1233c). In addition, one side of the guide pattern opposite the vertex (1233c) may be sunken toward the vertex (1233c).

[0127] In addition, the guide pattern (1233) may be positioned so that the vertex (1233c) faces outward, positioned on an extension line (L) extending radially outward from the center of the container guide (232). That is, the vertices of the guide patterns (1233) positioned on the same extension line (L) from the center (C) may face the same direction. In addition, the vertices (1233c) of the guide patterns (1233) that are rotationally positioned along the circumference of the container guide (232) may all be positioned so as to face different outward sides.

[0128] In addition, when the container (2) moves inward toward the center (C) of the guide (1233), a relatively small frictional force can be applied due to the shape of the guide pattern (1233). Accordingly, the container (2) can be aligned at the center of the guide (1233) without leaving the guide (1233).

[0129] Meanwhile, a space may be formed between the guide patterns (1233) that are spaced apart from each other. That is, a space where the guide pattern (1233) is not formed may be formed on the inner surface (235) of the upper plate (23), and a drainage portion (234) may be formed. The drainage portion (234) may guide water so that, when water falls on the upper plate (23), it is drained to the outside of the container guide (232).

[0130] Fig. 10 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0131] As illustrated, a circular container guide (232) may be formed on the top plate (23) of the cooking appliance (1) according to the third embodiment of the present invention at a position corresponding to the heating unit (22). Accordingly, when the heating unit (22) is operated while the container (2) is positioned on the container guide (232), the container (2) can be heated.

[0132] Meanwhile, in order to guide the container (2) to be aligned with the center of the heating unit (22), a plurality of guide patterns (2233) may be formed on the inside of the container guide (232). The guide patterns (2233) may be formed in a radial manner based on the center of the container guide (232). In addition, the guide patterns (2233) may be continuously arranged along an extension line (L) extending radially outward from the center of the container guide (232).

[0133] The above guide pattern (2233) may be formed by super-printing using the same material or a material of the same series as the upper plate (23). In addition, the roughness of the guide pattern (2233) may be formed to be higher than the roughness of the inner surface (235) and the outer surface (231) of the upper plate (23).

[0134] Meanwhile, a plurality of guide patterns (2233) may be arranged in a direction. The guide patterns (2233) may be formed in a polygonal shape with a plurality of vertices. For example, the guide patterns (2233) may be formed in a pentagonal shape.

[0135] In detail, the guide pattern (2233) can form a plurality of inclined sides, and a vertex (2233c) can be formed by at least two sides (2233a, 2233b) that are in contact with each other. At this time, the two sides (2233a, 2233b) can be formed longer than the other sides. In addition, the vertex (2233c) can be located on an extension line (L) that faces outward from the center of the container guide (232). In addition, a plurality of guide patterns (2233) arranged on the extension line (L) are located on the same extension line (L), and the vertices (2233c) can extend toward the outside of the container guide (232). In addition, the vertices (2233c) of the guide patterns (2233) that are rotated along the circumference of the container guide (232) can all be arranged to face different outward directions.

[0136] Accordingly, when the container (2) faces outward from the guide pattern (2233), a shear force may be applied along the two inclined sides (2233a, 2233b) to increase the frictional force. That is, due to the shape of the guide pattern (2233), a relatively greater frictional force may be generated when the container (2) moves away from the center of the container guide (232).

[0137] In addition, when the container (2) moves inward toward the center (C) of the guide (2233), a relatively small frictional force can be applied due to the shape of the guide pattern (2233). Accordingly, the container (2) can be aligned at the center of the guide (2233) without leaving the guide (2233).

[0138] Meanwhile, a space may be formed between the guide patterns (2233) that are spaced apart from each other. That is, a drainage portion (234) may be formed on the inner surface (235) of the upper plate (23) by the space between the guide patterns (2233) where the guide patterns (2233) are not formed. Accordingly, when water falls on the upper plate (23), it can be drained through the drainage portion (234).

[0139] Fig. 11 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0140] As illustrated, a circular container guide (232) may be formed on the top plate (23) of the cooking appliance (1) according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention at a position corresponding to the heating unit (22). Accordingly, when the heating unit (22) is operated while the container (2) is positioned on the container guide (232), the container (2) can be heated.

[0141] Meanwhile, in order to guide the container (2) to be aligned with the center of the heating unit (22), a plurality of guide patterns (3323) may be formed on the inside of the container guide (232). The guide patterns (3323) may be formed in a radial manner based on the center (C) of the container guide (232). In addition, the guide patterns (3323) may be continuously arranged along an extension line (L) extending radially outward from the center (C) of the container guide (232).

[0142] The above guide pattern (3323) may be formed by super-printing using the same material as or of the same series as the upper plate (23). In addition, the roughness of the guide pattern (3323) may be formed to be higher than the roughness of the inner surface (235) and outer surface (231) of the guide.

[0143] Meanwhile, a plurality of guide patterns (3323) may be arranged in a direction. For example, the guide pattern (3323) may be formed in a star shape with a plurality of vertices (3233c). In this case, although the guide pattern (3323) has a plurality of vertices, one vertex (3233c) may be arranged so that it faces the outside of the container guide (232).

[0144] In detail, the guide pattern (3323) can form a plurality of inclined sides (3233a, 3233b), and a vertex (3233c) can be formed by two sides (3233a, 3233b) that are in contact with each other. In addition, the vertex (3233c) can be located on an extension line (L) that faces outward from the center (C) of the container guide (232).

[0145] And, among the guide patterns (3323), all of the guide patterns (3323) positioned on the same extension line (L) can be extended so that the vertices (3233c) face the outside of the container guide (232). And, the vertices (3233c) of the guide patterns (3323) that are rotated along the circumference of the container guide (232) can all be positioned to face different outsides.

[0146] Accordingly, when the container (2) is directed toward the outside of the container guide (232), a shear force may be applied along the two inclined sides (3233a, 3233b) to increase the frictional force. That is, due to the shape of the guide pattern (3323), a relatively greater frictional force may be generated when the container (2) moves away from the center (C) of the container guide (232).

[0147] And, when the container (2) moves inward toward the center (C) of the container guide (232), a relatively small frictional force can be applied due to the shape of the guide pattern (3323). Therefore, the container (2) can be aligned with the center (C) of the container guide (232) without leaving the container guide (232).

[0148] Meanwhile, a drainage portion (234) may be formed between the guide patterns (3323) on the inner surface of the container guide (232). That is, a space in which the guide patterns (3323) are not formed may be formed on the inner surface (235) of the upper plate (23), and when water falls on the upper plate (23), it may be drained to the outside of the container guide (232) through the drainage portion (234).

[0149] Fig. 12 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0150] As illustrated, a circular container guide (232) may be formed on the top plate (23) of the cooking appliance (1) according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention at a position corresponding to the heating unit (22). Accordingly, when the heating unit (22) is operated while the container (2) is positioned on the container guide (232), the container (2) can be heated.

[0151] Meanwhile, in order to induce the container (2) to be aligned with the center of the heating unit (22), a plurality of guide patterns (4233) may be formed on the inner surface (235) of the container guide (232). The guide patterns (4233) may be formed in a radial manner based on the center (C) of the container guide (232). In addition, the guide patterns (4233) may be continuously arranged along an extension line (L) extending radially outward from the center of the container guide (232).

[0152] The above guide pattern (4233) may be formed by super-printing using the same material or a material of the same series as the upper plate (23). In addition, the roughness of the guide pattern (4233) may be formed to be higher than the roughness of the inner surface (235) and the outer surface (231) of the upper plate (23).

[0153] Meanwhile, a plurality of guide patterns (4233) may be arranged in a direction. For example, the guide pattern (4233) may be formed in a diamond shape having a plurality of vertices (4233c). In this case, the guide pattern (4233) may have a plurality of vertices (4233c), but may be arranged such that one of the vertices (4233c) faces the outside of the container guide (232).

[0154] In detail, the guide pattern (4233) may form a plurality of inclined sides (4233a, 4233b), and a vertex (4233c) may be formed by two sides (4233a, 4233b) that are in contact with each other. In addition, the vertex (4233c) may be located on an extension line extending outward from the center of the container guide (232).

[0155] In addition, a plurality of the above guide patterns (4233) may be positioned on the same extension line, and the vertices (4233c) may extend so as to face the outside of the container guide (232). In addition, the vertices (4233c) of the guide patterns (4233) that are rotated along the circumference of the container guide (232) may all be positioned so as to face the outside.

[0156] When the container (2) is directed toward the outside of the container guide (232), a shear force may be applied along the two inclined sides (4233a, 4233b) of the guide pattern (4233), thereby increasing the frictional force. That is, due to the shape of the guide pattern (4233), a relatively greater frictional force may be generated when the container (2) moves away from the center of the container guide (232).

[0157] And, when the container (2) moves inward toward the center (C) of the container guide (232), a relatively small frictional force can be applied due to the shape of the guide pattern (4233). Therefore, the container (2) can be aligned with the center (C) of the container guide (232) without leaving the container guide (232).

[0158] Meanwhile, a drainage portion (234) may be formed between the guide patterns (4233) on the inner surface of the container guide (232). That is, a space in which the guide patterns (4233) are not formed may be formed on the inner surface (235) of the upper plate (23), and when water falls on the upper plate (23), it may be drained to the outside of the container guide (232) through the drainage portion (234).

[0159] Fig. 13 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0160] As illustrated, a circular container guide (232) may be formed on the top plate (23) of the cooking appliance (1) according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention at a position corresponding to the heating unit (22). Accordingly, when the heating unit (22) is operated while the container (2) is positioned on the container guide (232), the container (2) can be heated.

[0161] Meanwhile, in order to induce the container (2) to be aligned with the center of the heating unit (22), a plurality of guide patterns (5233) may be formed on the inner surface (235) of the container guide (232). The guide patterns (5233) may be formed in a plurality radially based on the center (C) of the container guide (232).

[0162] The above guide pattern (5233) may be formed by super-printing using the same material or a material of the same series as the upper plate (23). In addition, the roughness of the guide pattern (5233) may be formed to be higher than the roughness of the inner surface (235) and the outer surface (231) of the upper plate (23).

[0163] Meanwhile, a plurality of guide patterns (5233) may be formed in a circular shape without directionality. The guide patterns (5233) may be arranged in a plurality of successive rows along an extension line (L) extending radially outward from the center of the container guide (232). In addition, the guide patterns (5233) may be arranged in a plurality of rows at regular intervals along a circumference at different distances based on the center of the container guide (232).

[0164] At this time, among the plurality of guide patterns (5233), the area (A2) of the guide pattern (5233b) at a position farther from the guide center (C) may be formed larger than the area (A1) of the guide pattern (5233a) at a position closer to the center of the container guide (232).

[0165] And, among the plurality of guide patterns (5233), the number of guide patterns (5233) at a position farther from the center (C) of the container guide (232) may be formed more than the number of guide patterns (5233) at a position close to the center of the container guide (232).

[0166] Accordingly, when the container (2) is mounted on the upper plate (23) and aligned with the center (C) of the container guide (232), and moves outward of the container guide (232) due to the flow, the contact area with the plurality of guide patterns (5233) increases, and thus a greater frictional force can be applied. Conversely, when the container (2) is not mounted in an aligned state on the container guide (232), the container (2) can be moved by pulling it toward the center of the container guide (232), and at this time, the contact area with the plurality of guide patterns (5233) decreases, and thus the frictional force can be reduced. Therefore, the container (2) can be induced to be aligned within the container guide (232).

[0167] Meanwhile, a drainage portion (234) spaced apart from each other between the guide patterns (5233) may be formed on the inner surface of the container guide (232). That is, a drainage portion without the guide pattern (5233) may be formed on the inner surface (235) of the upper plate (23), and when water falls on the upper plate (23), it may be drained to the outside of the container guide (232) through the drainage portion (234).

[0168] Fig. 14 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0169] As illustrated, a circular container guide (232) may be formed on the top plate (23) of the cooking appliance (1) according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention at a position corresponding to the heating unit (22). Accordingly, when the heating unit (22) is operated while the container (2) is positioned on the container guide (232), the container (2) can be heated.

[0170] Meanwhile, in order to guide the container (2) to be aligned at the center of the heating unit (22), a plurality of guide patterns (6233) may be formed on the inner surface (235) of the container guide (232). The guide patterns (6233) may be formed by super-printing using the same or the same type of material as the upper plate (23). In addition, the roughness of the guide patterns (6233) may be formed to be higher than the roughness of the inner surface (235) and the outer surface (231) of the upper plate (23).

[0171] The plurality of guide patterns (6233) may be formed in a plurality of ring shapes with different diameters and may be formed to have a predetermined width. In addition, the guide patterns (6233) may be arranged concentrically with the center (C) of the container guide (232). That is, the plurality of guide patterns (6233) may be formed to have different diameters based on the same center (C). In addition, the plurality of guide patterns (6233) may be formed such that the distance between them and neighboring guide patterns (6233) gradually decreases as they get farther from the center.

[0172] For example, the distance (D1) between the center (C) and the first guide pattern (6233a) may be formed to be greater than the distance (D2) between the first guide pattern (6233a) and the second guide pattern (6233b). In addition, the distance (D4) between the eighth guide pattern (6233e) closest to the container guide (232) and the seventh guide pattern (6233d) may be formed to be smaller than the distance (D3) between the seventh guide pattern (6233d) and the sixth guide pattern (6233c). That is, the farther away from the center (C) of the container guide (232), the narrower the gap between the neighboring guide patterns (6233).

[0173] When the container (2) is positioned on the upper plate (23) and aligned at the center of the container guide (232), and the container (2) moves outward of the container guide (232) due to the flow, the contact area with the plurality of guide patterns (6233) increases, and thus a greater frictional force can be applied. Accordingly, the container (2) can be restricted from moving outward of the container guide (232).

[0174] Conversely, in a state where the container (2) is not mounted in an aligned state on the container guide (232), the container (2) can be moved by pulling it toward the center (C) of the container guide (232), and at this time, the frictional force can be reduced as the contact area with the plurality of guide patterns (6233) is reduced. Accordingly, the container (2) can be guided to be aligned within the container guide (232).

[0175] Fig. 15 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0176] As illustrated, a circular container guide (232) may be formed on the top plate (23) of the cooking appliance (1) according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention at a position corresponding to the heating unit (22). Accordingly, when the heating unit (22) is operated while the container (2) is positioned on the container guide (232), the container (2) can be heated.

[0177] Meanwhile, in order to guide the container (2) to be aligned with the center (C) of the heating unit (22), a plurality of guide patterns (7233) may be formed on the inner surface (235) of the container guide (232). The guide patterns (7233) may be formed by super-printing using the same or the same type of material as the upper plate (23). In addition, the roughness of the guide patterns (7233) may be formed to be higher than the roughness of the inner surface (235) and the outer surface (231) of the upper plate (23). Meanwhile, the overall shape of the guide patterns (7233) may be similar to the guide patterns (6233) of the above-described embodiment.

[0178] For example, the distance (D1) between the center (C) and the first guide pattern (7233a) may be formed to be greater than the distance (D2) between the first guide pattern (7233a) and the second guide pattern (7233b). In addition, the distance (D4) between the eighth guide pattern (7233e) closest to the container guide (232) and the seventh guide pattern (7233d) may be formed to be smaller than the distance (D3) between the seventh guide pattern (7233d) and the sixth guide pattern (7233c). That is, the farther away from the center (C) of the container guide (232), the narrower the gap between the neighboring guide patterns (7233).

[0179] That is, among the plurality of guide patterns (7233), the closer it is to the center (C) of the container guide (232), the smaller the diameter, and the wider the gap with the neighboring guide pattern (7233). Accordingly, when the container (2) tries to move outward away from the container guide (232), the number of guide patterns (7233) in contact with the container (2) increases, resulting in a greater frictional force.

[0180] Conversely, in a state where the container (2) is not mounted in an aligned state on the container guide (232), the container (2) can be moved by pulling it toward the center (C) of the container guide (232). At this time, the frictional force can be reduced as the contact area with the plurality of guide patterns (7233) is reduced. Accordingly, the container (2) can be guided to be aligned within the container guide (232).

[0181] Meanwhile, the guide pattern (7233) may be formed with at least one short-circuited drainage portion (7234). The drainage portions (7234) formed on the plurality of guide patterns (7233) may be opened along the same extension line. In addition, the drainage portions (7234) may be formed in multiple numbers on the guide pattern (7233). For example, the drainage portions (7234) may be formed on multiple extension lines extending radially from the center of the container guide (232).

[0182] Accordingly, even if water exists between the upper surface of the upper plate (23) and the container (2), the water between the container (2) and the upper plate (23) can be drained by the thickness of the guide pattern (7233). In particular, the water inside the container guide (232) can be effectively discharged along the drainage portion (7234). For example, the thickness (T) of the guide pattern can be 0.1 to 2 mm.

[0183] Meanwhile, the cooking appliance of the present invention has a different structure in addition to the above-described embodiment, which will be examined below with reference to the drawings.

[0184] Fig. 16 is an exploded perspective view of a cooktop according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 17 is an enlarged view showing the arrangement of patterns formed on the top plate of the cooktop.

[0185] As illustrated, the cooking appliance (1) according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention may be a cooktop (40) having an induction heating element (42). In addition, the cooktop (40) may be configured as a freestanding type and may be independently placed and used.

[0186] In detail, the cooktop (40) may include a base (41) forming an exterior, a heating unit (42) provided inside the base (41), a mounting plate (44) on which the heating unit (42) is mounted, and a top plate (43) forming an upper surface.

[0187] The above base (41) may be formed of a metal material and may be formed in a box shape with an open upper surface. In addition, the base (41) may form the lower surface and the peripheral outer surface of the cooktop (40). In addition, a number of electrical components for the operation of the heating unit (42) may be provided inside the base (41). The base (41) may be referred to as a case.

[0188] The above mounting plate (44) is provided inside the base (41) and can support the heating unit (42). The mounting plate (44) can be configured to divide the inside of the base (41) into upper and lower parts, so that the electrical components are provided at the lower part and the heating unit (42) is arranged at the upper part.

[0189] The above heating unit (42) may be provided in multiple numbers inside the base (41). The multiple heating units (42) may each be mounted on a mounting unit provided on the mounting plate (44). The heating unit (42) may be configured in an induction manner capable of heating a container (2) mounted on the upper plate by induced electromotive force.

[0190] For example, the heating unit (42) may include a plurality of radially arranged ferrite cores (421) and a working coil (422) arranged above the ferrite cores (421). In addition, the working coil (422) may be positioned at a position corresponding to a guide of the upper plate (43) to heat a container (2) arranged on the guide (432). Of course, the heating unit (42) may have various other structures capable of heating the container (2) by an induced electromotive force method.

[0191] The above top plate (43) is formed in a rectangular plate shape and can shield the open upper surface of the base (41). The top plate (43) forms the upper surface of the cooktop (40) and at the same time can provide a surface on which a container (2) for heating is seated. For example, the top plate (43) can be formed of heat-resistant glass, tempered glass, or ceramic glass. In addition, the top plate (43) can be formed opaque so as to shield the internal structure of the base (41).

[0192] In addition, a guide (432) may be formed on the upper plate (43) at a position corresponding to the heating unit (42). The guide (432) is formed vertically above the heating unit (42) and may be formed along the circumference of the heating unit (42). For example, the guide (432) may be formed in a circular shape corresponding to the heating unit (42). Therefore, when a user places the container (2) within the guide (432), the container (2) may be aligned with the heating unit (42) and may be effectively heated.

[0193] The above guide (432) can be formed by surface processing the upper plate (43). For example, the guide (432) can be formed by printing on the upper plate (43). The guide (432) can be printed by super-printing and can be firmly attached to the upper plate (43) made of glass or ceramic. The guide (432) can be formed in a color different from that of the upper plate (43) so that the user can easily identify it with the naked eye. In addition, the guide (432) can also be formed of the same material as the guide pattern (433) to be described below.

[0194] The above guide pattern (433) can be printed by super-magnetic printing and can be formed of glass or ceramic material. Therefore, the guide pattern (433) can remain attached to the upper plate (43) without being separated from it even when subjected to repeated friction. In addition, the guide pattern (433) can be formed of a material that does not affect the change in the magnetic field generated from the heating unit (42) and does not interfere with the transmission of the induced electromotive force. For example, the guide pattern (433) can be formed of a non-magnetic material. That is, the guide pattern (433) can satisfy these conditions when super-magnetic printing is performed on a ceramic material.

[0195] The above guide pattern (433) is intended to guide the container (2) to be aligned within the guide (432), and a plurality of guide patterns (433) may be arranged on the inner surface (435) of the guide (432). Accordingly, when the container (2) is placed on the upper plate, the lower surface of the container (2) can come into contact with the guide pattern (433).

[0196] At this time, due to the height of the guide pattern (433), the lower surface of the container (2) can be slightly spaced apart from the upper surface of the upper plate (43). Therefore, even if water exists between the container (2) and the upper plate (43) while the container (2) is seated on the upper plate (43), the container (2) can be prevented from flowing due to bubbles caused by heating of the water. In addition, the plurality of guide patterns (433) are spaced apart from each other to form a drainage portion (434), so that the water of the upper plate (43) can be easily discharged to the outside of the guide (432).

[0197] The roughness of the above guide pattern (433) can be formed to be greater than the roughness of the inner surface (435) and the outer surface (431) of the upper plate (43). Therefore, when the bottom surface of the container (2) is in contact with the guide pattern (433), the container (2) can be prevented from leaving the guide (432) by the frictional force between the container (2) and the guide pattern (433).

[0198] In addition, the guide pattern (433) may be formed in multiple numbers radially from the center of the heating unit (42), i.e., the center (C) of the guide (432). The multiple guide patterns (433) may be arranged continuously in a direction away from the center (C) of the guide (432).

[0199] At this time, the size of the guide pattern (433) may be the same. Accordingly, the number of guide patterns (433) formed inside the guide (432) may be smaller as it approaches the center of the heating part (42), and may increase as it goes outward.

[0200] In addition, the guide pattern (433) is arranged in a polygonal shape and can be arranged to have directionality. In detail, the guide pattern (433) has at least two sides (433a, 433b) and can form a vertex (433c) where the two sides (433a, 433b) meet. At this time, the vertex (433c) can be located on an extension line (L) that radially faces outward from the center (C) of the guide (432). In addition, the vertex (433c) can be arranged to face the outside of the guide (432).

[0201] For example, the guide pattern (433) may be formed in a triangular shape. At this time, it may be an isosceles triangle in which two sides (433a, 433b) have the same length. The length of the two sides (433a, 433b) may be formed longer than the length of the remaining side, and the angle between the two sides (433a, 433b) may form an acute angle. The plurality of guide patterns (433) may be aligned in a rotational direction based on the center of the guide (432). In addition, the guide patterns (433) positioned on an extension line (L) extending radially from the center (C) of the guide (432) may be arranged so that all of the vertices (433c) face the same direction.

[0202] Accordingly, when the container (2) is seated on the upper plate (43) so as to be in contact with the guide pattern (433), it can be prevented from moving out of the guide (432) due to the relatively large frictional force of the guide pattern (433).

[0203] And, when the container (2) is positioned at a position away from the center (C) of the guide (432), when the container (2) moves toward the center (C) of the guide (432), the guide pattern (433) can be aligned with a relatively small frictional force so that the container (2) is aligned inside the guide (432).

[0204] And, the shape and function of the above guide pattern (433) may be the same as the various embodiments described above.

[0205] Fig. 18 is a plan view of the top plate of a cooktop according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0206] As illustrated, a cooking appliance (1) according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of heating elements (842) and may include a top plate (43) that shields the plurality of heating elements (842) from above. The top plate (43) may have the same structure as the embodiment described above.

[0207] The above heating unit (842) may be provided in multiple numbers, and at least one of the heating units (842) may be formed in a rectangular shape when viewed from above. That is, the heating unit (842) may be an induction burner of an induction heating method or a radiant burner by electric resistance, and may be formed in a rectangular shape.

[0208] In addition, the heating unit (842) may be configured to generate heat across the entire rectangular area, or may be configured to be divided into multiple zones to generate heat as needed. For example, the heating unit (842) may be divided into three sections in the vertical direction.

[0209] In addition, the cooking appliance (1) may further include a circular heating element (42) and guide (432) as in the above-described embodiment.

[0210] Meanwhile, a guide (8432) may be formed on the upper plate (43). The guide (8432) may be formed on the upper surface of the upper plate (43) and may be formed in a size corresponding to a position corresponding to the heating part (842). The guide (8432) may be formed by super-printing.

[0211] Accordingly, a square guide (8432) can be formed at a position corresponding to the square heating portion (842). And, a circular guide (432) can be formed at a position corresponding to the circular heating portion (42).

[0212] Since the heating unit (842) is positioned in the inner area of ​​the guide (8432), when a user places the container (2) on the guide (8432), the container (2) can be aligned with the heating unit (842).

[0213] Meanwhile, a plurality of guide patterns (8433) may be formed on the inner surface (8435) of the guide (8432). The guide patterns (8433) are intended to guide the container (2) to be aligned within the guide (8432), and a plurality of them may be arranged on the inner surface (8435) of the guide (8432).

[0214] The above guide pattern (8433) can be formed by super-printing. When the container (2) is placed on the upper plate, the lower surface of the container (2) can come into contact with the guide pattern.

[0215] The roughness of the above guide pattern (8433) can be formed to be greater than the roughness of the inner surface (8435) and the outer surface (8431) of the upper plate (43). Therefore, when the container (2) is secured to the upper plate (43), the frictional force of the guide pattern (8433) can prevent the container (2) from moving out of the guide (8432).

[0216] And, the guide pattern (8433) may be arranged in multiple numbers from the center of the heating unit (842), that is, the center (C) of the guide (8432) toward the outer end of the guide (8432). The multiple guide patterns (8433) may be arranged continuously in a direction away from the center (C) of the guide (8432).

[0217] In addition, the guide pattern (8433) is arranged in a polygonal shape and may be arranged to have directionality. In detail, the guide pattern (8433) has at least two sides, and a vertex (8433c) where the two sides (8433a, 8433b) meet may be formed. At this time, the vertex (8433c) may be arranged to face the outside of the guide (8432).

[0218] For example, the guide pattern (8433) may be formed in a triangular shape. At this time, it may be an isosceles triangle in which two sides (8433a, 8433b) have the same length. The lengths of the two sides (8433a, 8433b) may be formed longer than the length of the remaining side (8433a, 8433b), and the angle between the two sides (8433a, 8433b) may form an acute angle. The guide pattern (8433) may be continuously arranged along the outer end of the guide (8432), and at this time, the vertex (8433c) may be aligned so as to face the outer end of the guide (8432). In addition, the guide pattern (8433) may be arranged in multiple numbers at regular intervals in a direction away from the center of the guide (8432).

[0219] Accordingly, when the container (2) is seated on the upper plate so as to be in contact with the guide pattern (8433), when the container (2) tries to move outward away from the guide (8432), a relatively greater frictional force is applied from the guide pattern (8433) to restrict the movement of the container (2).

[0220] Conversely, when the container (2) is not aligned with the guide (8432) and a part of the container (2) is out of alignment with the guide (8432), when the container (2) is to be moved to the center of the guide (8432), a relatively smaller frictional force is applied from the guide pattern (8433) to induce movement of the container (2) and alignment to the center of the guide (8432).

[0221] In addition, a space in which a plurality of guide patterns (8433) are not formed may be formed on the inner surface of the guide (8432). That is, a drainage portion (8434) through which water or foreign substances are discharged may be formed between the spaced apart portions of the plurality of guide patterns (8433).

[0222] Fig. 19 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a pattern according to the 11th embodiment of the present invention.

[0223] As illustrated, a cooking appliance (1) according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention includes a top plate that shields a heating unit (842) from above. In addition, a square-shaped heating unit (842) may be provided below the top plate (43), and the heating unit (842) may have the same structure as the embodiment described above. In addition, the top plate (43) shields the heating unit (842) from above, and a guide (8432) may be formed on the top plate (43).

[0224] The above guide (8432) can be formed to a size corresponding to a position corresponding to the heating unit (842). Accordingly, the user can place the container (2) on the guide (8432) so that the heating unit (842) and the container (2) are aligned.

[0225] Meanwhile, in order to guide the container (2) to be aligned at the center of the heating unit (842), a plurality of guide patterns (8433) may be formed on the inside of the guide (8432). The guide patterns (8433) may be formed by super-printing using the same or the same type of material as the upper plate (43). In addition, the roughness of the guide patterns (8433) may be formed to be higher than the roughness of the inner surface (8435) and the outer surface (8431) of the upper plate (43).

[0226] The plurality of guide patterns (8433) may be formed into a plurality of different rectangular shapes with different lengths and widths, and may be arranged concentrically with the center (C) of the guide (8432). That is, the plurality of guide patterns (8433) may be formed into rectangular shapes with different intervals based on the same center (C). In addition, the plurality of guide patterns (8433) may be formed such that the intervals between adjacent guide patterns (8433) gradually decrease as they get farther from the center (C).

[0227] For example, the distance (D1) between the center (C) and the first guide pattern (9433a) may be formed to be greater than the distance (D2) between the first guide pattern (9433a) and the second guide pattern (9433b). In addition, the distance (D4) between the fifth guide pattern (9433e) closest to the guide (8432) and the fourth guide pattern (9433d) may be formed to be smaller than the distance (D3) between the fourth guide pattern (9433d) and the third guide pattern (9433c). That is, the farther away from the center (C) of the guide (8432), the narrower the gap between the neighboring guide patterns (8433).

[0228] Accordingly, when the container (2) is aligned with the center (C) of the guide (8432) and moves to the outside of the guide (8432) by the flow, the contact area of ​​the container (2) with the plurality of guide patterns (8433) increases, and thus a relatively large frictional force is applied, which can restrict the container (2) from moving out of the guide (8432).

[0229] Conversely, when the container (2) is not mounted in an aligned state on the guide (8432), the container (2) can be moved by pulling it toward the center of the guide (8432). At this time, the frictional force of the container (2) can be relatively reduced as the contact area with the plurality of guide patterns (8433) is reduced. Accordingly, the container (2) can be guided to be aligned within the guide (8432).

[0230] The cooking appliance according to the embodiment of the present invention has high industrial applicability because it can guarantee cooking performance and improve convenience of use by preventing movement of a container for heating and maintaining alignment.

Claims

1. Case; A heating unit placed inside the case; and It includes a top plate mounted on the case and shielding the heating element from above, and on which a container for cooking is placed; A container guide is formed on the upper surface of the above top plate to indicate the position of the container to be installed at a position corresponding to the heating unit. A cooking appliance in which a plurality of guides are formed radially toward the container guide based on the center of the container guide and a guide pattern is formed that comes into contact with the bottom surface of the container.

2. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance in which the top plate is formed of ceramic glass and the guide pattern is formed by super-magnetic printing.

3. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance in which a plurality of said guide patterns are arranged in rotation at regular intervals from the center to the container guide.

4. In paragraph 1, The above guide pattern is formed in a polygonal shape having at least one vertex, A cooking appliance wherein the top end is positioned so as to face the outside of the container guide.

5. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance in which the illuminance of the above guide pattern is formed to be greater than the illuminance of the above top plate.

6. In paragraph 1, The above guide pattern has at least one vertex formed by two edges joining together, A cooking appliance wherein the top end is positioned so as to face away from the center.

7. In paragraph 6, A plurality of guide patterns are arranged continuously along an extension line extending radially from the center above. A cooking appliance in which the vertices of the above multiple guide patterns face in the same direction.

8. In paragraph 1, A number of guide patterns are arranged in rotation based on the above center. A cooking appliance in which the vertices of the above multiple guide patterns face in different directions.

9. In paragraph 1, A plurality of the above guide patterns are rotated and arranged at regular intervals based on the center. A cooking appliance formed to have a larger surface area the farther away it is from the center.

10. In paragraph 1, A plurality of the above guide patterns are rotated and arranged at regular intervals based on the center. A cooking appliance in which a greater number of guide patterns are formed the farther away from the center.

11. In paragraph 1, The above guide pattern is formed in a number of circular shapes concentric with the center and having different diameters, A cooking appliance in which the distance between adjacent guide patterns becomes narrower as the guide pattern moves away from the center.

12. In paragraph 11, A cooking appliance in which a portion of the above guide pattern is short-circuited to form a drainage portion through which water or foreign matter on the top plate passes.

13. In paragraph 1, The above heating unit includes a heating coil that generates heat by electrical resistance, The above heating coil is formed of a number of circles with different diameters, A cooking appliance in which the above guide pattern is placed between the plurality of circles.

14. In paragraph 13, A cooking appliance in which the above guide pattern is formed so that the radiant light of the above heating unit is transmitted.

15. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance in which the above heating part is an induction burner that heats the container by induced electromotive force.

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