Cooking apparatus and method for controlling cooking apparatus

Abstract

A cooking apparatus according to the present invention comprises: a main body having a chamber formed therein; a heater for heating the air in the chamber; a fan for circulating the air in the chamber; a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the chamber; a user interface device for receiving a user input for selecting a cooking mode including an eco mode and a normal mode; and a control unit for turning the fan on on the basis that the cooking mode has been selected and cooking has started, keeping the heater on until the temperature of the chamber reaches a set temperature, controlling the heater to maintain the temperature of the chamber at the set temperature on the basis that the temperature of the chamber has reached the set temperature, and turning the fan off on the basis that the cooking time has reached a set time, wherein, on the basis of the eco mode being selected as the cooking mode, the control unit can turn the heater off on the basis that the cooking time has reached a predetermined fraction of the set time.

Description

Cooking appliances and methods for controlling cooking appliances

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cooking appliance capable of operating in eco mode and a method for controlling the cooking appliance.

[0002] In general, a cooking appliance is a device that cooks food by having a cooking chamber, a heating device that applies heat to the cooking chamber, and a circulation fan that circulates the heat generated by the heating device within the cooking chamber.

[0003] Cooking appliances are devices that seal and heat food for cooking. They can generally be categorized as electric, gas, or electronic based on their heat source. Electric ovens use heaters as their heat source, while gas ovens and microwave ovens use gas heat and the frictional heat of water molecules caused by high-frequency waves, respectively.

[0004] In general, a cooking appliance includes a main body having an exterior appearance and an open front to form a cooking chamber into which food to be cooked is placed, a door installed on the front of the main body to selectively open and close the cooking chamber, and a control panel installed on the front of the main body to set a desired cooking mode or various conditions necessary for cooking.

[0005] When a cooker uses a heater as its heat source, most of the electrical energy consumed by the cooker is used to operate the heater.

[0006] The present disclosure provides a cooking appliance and a method of controlling the cooking appliance that provides an eco mode that achieves cooking results similar to those in a normal mode but saves energy.

[0007] The present disclosure provides a cooking appliance and a method for controlling the cooking appliance that can maximize energy savings and ensure satisfactory cooking performance.

[0008] The present disclosure provides a cooking appliance and a control method for the cooking appliance that can maximize the efficiency of the eco mode by allowing the eco mode to be selected only under certain conditions.

[0009] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cooking appliance comprises: a main body having a chamber formed therein; a heater for heating air in the chamber; a fan for circulating air in the chamber; a temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of the chamber; a user interface device for receiving a user input for selecting a cooking mode including an eco mode and a normal mode; and a control unit for turning on the fan based on the selection of the cooking mode and the start of cooking, turning on the heater until the temperature of the chamber reaches a set temperature, controlling the heater so that the temperature of the chamber maintains the set temperature based on the temperature of the chamber reaching the set temperature, and turning off the fan based on the cooking progress time reaching a set time; wherein, based on the selection of the cooking mode as the eco mode, the control unit can turn off the heater based on the cooking progress time reaching a predetermined percentage of the set time.

[0011] A control method of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: receiving a user input for selecting a cooking mode including an eco mode and a normal mode; turning on a fan based on the selection of the cooking mode and the start of cooking, turning on a heater until a temperature of a chamber reaches a set temperature, controlling the heater to maintain the temperature of the chamber at the set temperature based on the temperature of the chamber reaching the set temperature, turning off the fan based on the cooking progress time reaching a set time; and turning off the heater based on the selection of the cooking mode as the eco mode and the cooking progress time reaching a predetermined percentage of the set time.

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

[0013] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 3 illustrates a probe device connectable to a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 4 illustrates an example of a control block diagram of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a method for controlling a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of operation of a heater when a cooking appliance according to one embodiment operates in normal mode.

[0018] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of the operation of a heater when a cooking appliance according to one embodiment operates in eco mode.

[0019] FIG. 8a illustrates an example of how the off point of a heater changes when a cooking appliance according to one embodiment operates in eco mode.

[0020] FIG. 8b illustrates another example in which the off timing of the heater is changed when the cooking appliance according to one embodiment operates in eco mode.

[0021] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a cooking end point being changed when a cooking appliance according to one embodiment operates in eco mode.

[0022] Fig. 10 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a method for controlling a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a first interface provided by a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a second interface provided by a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0025] Figure 13 illustrates examples of interfaces for directly inputting set time and set temperature according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 14 illustrates examples of interfaces for indirectly inputting set time and set temperature by inputting information on a cooking material according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 15 illustrates an example of an interface for indirectly inputting a set time and set temperature by receiving a recipe from an external device according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 16 illustrates an example of an interface provided by a cooking appliance operating in eco mode according to one embodiment.

[0029] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely preferred examples of the disclosed invention, and there may be various modified examples that can replace the embodiments and drawings of this specification at the time of filing of this application.

[0030] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments only and is not intended to limit and / or restrict the disclosed invention.

[0031] For example, in this specification, a singular expression may include a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0032] Additionally, terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to express the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not exclude the possibility of the additional presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0033] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0034] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0035] Meanwhile, the terms "front", "back", "left", "right", "upper", "lower", etc. used in the following description are defined based on the drawing, but the shape and position of each component are not limited by the above terms. For example, the front side may be defined as the +X side, and the rear side may be defined as the -X side. For example, based on the drawing, the right side may be defined as the +Y side, and the left side may be defined as the -Y side. For example, based on the drawing, the upper side may be defined as the +Z side, and the lower side may be defined as the -Z side.

[0036] Additionally, terms that include ordinal numbers, such as “first,” “second,” etc., are used to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit one component.

[0037] Additionally, terms such as "~part", "~device", "~block", "~absence", and "~module" may refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, the terms may refer to at least one piece of hardware such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) / ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), at least one piece of software stored in memory, or at least one process processed by a processor.

[0038] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the disclosed invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. The same reference numbers or symbols used in the attached drawings may represent parts or components that perform substantially the same functions.

[0039] The operating principle and embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0040] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0041] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a cooking appliance (1) may include a main body (1h) forming an exterior, and a door (20) provided to open and close an opening of the main body (1h). A window (30) may be provided in the door (20). The window (30) may be formed of a transparent material. A user may observe the chamber (50) through the window (30) when the door (20) is closed. The window (30) may be formed of a translucent member, an opaque member, or a transparent display.

[0042] The term chamber (50) may be replaced with the term cooking room or cooking space from the perspective that it is a space where food (ob) is cooked, and may also be replaced with the term cavity, etc. from the perspective that it is an internal space of a cooking device (1) that is partitioned from the outside.

[0043] A cooking appliance (1) may be provided with a user interface device (40) for displaying information related to the operation of the cooking appliance (1) and obtaining user input. The user interface device (40) may include an output interface device (41) for displaying information related to the operation of the cooking appliance (1) and an input interface device (42) for obtaining user input. The output interface device (41) and the input interface device (42) may be provided at various locations of the main body (1h). For example, the output interface device (41) and the input interface device (42) may be located on the upper front side of the main body (1h).

[0044] The output interface device (41) may be provided as a variety of display panels. For example, the output interface device (41) may include a liquid crystal display panel (LCD Panel), a light emitting diode panel (LED Panel), an organic light emitting diode panel (OLED Panel), or a micro LED panel. The output interface device (41) may also be used as an input device, including a touch screen.

[0045] The output interface device (41) can display information input by the user or information provided to the user on various screens. The output interface device (41) can display information related to the operation of the cooking appliance (1) in the form of at least one of an image or text. In addition, the output interface device (41) can display a graphical user interface (GUI) that enables control of the cooking appliance (1). That is, the output interface device (41) can display a UI element (User Interface Element) such as an icon.

[0046] The input interface device (42) can generate an electrical signal (voltage or current) corresponding to a user input. The input interface device (42) can include various buttons and / or dials. For example, the input interface device (42) can include at least one of a power button for turning the power of the cooking appliance (1) on or off, a start button for starting a cooking operation, a stop button for stopping a cooking operation, a temperature button for setting a cooking temperature, and a time button for setting a cooking time. The various buttons can be provided as physical buttons or touch buttons.

[0047] The dial included in the input interface device (42) may be configured to be rotatable. Rotating the dial may select one of a plurality of recommended items related to the food. UI elements displayed on the output interface device (41) may sequentially move according to the rotation of the dial. Rotating the dial may change the set temperature and / or set time.

[0048] A cooking appliance (1) may include a chamber (50) provided inside a main body (1h) and in which a food (ob) may be positioned. An opening may be provided at the front of the main body (1h). A user may position the food (ob) in the chamber (50) through the opening of the main body (1h). The chamber (50) may be provided in a rectangular parallelepiped shape.

[0049] A plurality of rails (51, 52) for mounting a tray (55) may be provided on the left and right inner surfaces of the chamber (50). The rails may also be referred to as 'supports'. For example, the plurality of rails (51, 52) may be formed to protrude from the left and right inner walls of the chamber (50). As another example, the plurality of rails (51, 52) may be provided as separate structures so as to be mountable on the left and right inner walls of the chamber (50).

[0050] Each of the plurality of rails (51, 52) has a predetermined length in the front-back direction. The plurality of rails (51, 52) may be provided at positions spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction. For example, the plurality of rails (51, 52) may include a first rail (51) and a second rail (52) formed at a position higher than the position of the first rail (51). The first rail (51) may be positioned at a first height from the floor of the chamber (50), and the second rail (52) may be positioned at a second height higher than the first height from the floor of the chamber (50).

[0051] The first rail (51) may refer to a pair of rails positioned at a first height on each of the left and right inner surfaces of the chamber (50). The second rail (52) may refer to a pair of rails positioned at a second height on each of the left and right inner surfaces of the chamber (50). A tray (55) may be placed at various heights in the chamber (50) by means of a plurality of rails (51, 52). A food (ob) may be positioned on the upper surface of the tray (55). The tray (55) may also be positioned on the bottom surface of the chamber (50).

[0052] Although two rails (51, 52) are provided as an example, this is not a limitation. Depending on the design, a different number of rails may be provided.

[0053] The user can place the food (ob) on the tray (55) and place the tray (55) with the food (ob) placed thereon into the chamber (50). For example, the user can place the food (ob) on the tray (55) and place the tray (55) with the food (ob) placed thereon on the floor of the chamber (50). As another example, the user can place the food (ob) on the tray (55) and place the tray (55) with the food (ob) placed thereon on the lower rail (51). As another example, the user can place the food (ob) on the tray (55) and place the tray (55) with the food (ob) placed thereon on the upper rail (52).

[0054] When the tray (55) is placed on the upper rail (52), the chamber (50) can be divided into an upper chamber (L1) and a lower chamber (L2).

[0055] A cooking object (ob) is an object to be cooked and may include food.

[0056] Various components necessary for the operation of the cooking device (1) may be placed between the chamber (50) and the main body (1h). In one embodiment, the cooking device (1) may include a camera (60), lighting (70), a heater (80), a fan (90), and / or various electrical components.

[0057] The camera (60) can acquire an image of the chamber (50). To this end, the camera (60) can have a shooting direction facing the chamber (50). To secure the field of view (FOV) of the camera (60), a portion of the upper surface of the chamber (50) adjacent to the position of the camera (60) can be formed of a transparent material (e.g., transparent heat-resistant glass).

[0058] The light (70) can emit light into the chamber (50). The chamber (50) can be brightened by the light emitted from the light (70). Accordingly, the brightness, contrast, and / or clarity of the image acquired by the camera (60) can be increased, and the discernibility of the food (ob) can be improved. A diffusion material can be provided on another part of the upper surface of the chamber (50) adjacent to the position of the light (70) to transmit and diffuse the light of the light (70) into the interior of the chamber (50).

[0059] A heater (80) may be provided on one side (e.g., upper side, rear side, and / or lower side) of the chamber (50). The heater (80) may supply heat to the chamber (50). The heater (80) may heat the air in the chamber (50). The food (ob) may be cooked by the heat generated by the heater (80). One or more heaters (80) may be provided. The output and heating time of the heater (80) may be adjusted differently depending on the type, number, and / or size of the food (ob). That is, the operation of the heater (80) may be controlled differently depending on the cooking course.

[0060] The fan (90) can circulate air in the chamber (50). The fan (90) can include a motor and blades. One or more fans (90) can be provided. As the fan (90) operates, air heated by the heater (80) can circulate in the chamber (50). As the fan (90) operates, heat generated by the heater (80) can be evenly transferred from the top to the bottom of the chamber (50). The rotation speed and rotation time of the fan (90) can be adjusted. For example, the output and rotation time of the fan (90) can be adjusted differently depending on the type, number, and / or size of the food (ob). That is, the operation of the fan (90) can be controlled differently depending on the cooking course.

[0061] FIG. 3 illustrates a probe device connectable to a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0062] Referring to Fig. 3, the probe device (2) can measure the temperature of the food (ob).

[0063] In one embodiment, the probe device (2) may be configured to measure the deep temperature of the food (ob).

[0064] In one embodiment, the probe device (2) may include a probe that can be inserted into the food. The probe may have a pointed shape so that it can be inserted into the food and may be made of metal. The probe device (2) may include a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the probe.

[0065] By inserting the probe of the probe device (2) into the food (ob), the temperature sensor of the probe device (2) can measure the deep temperature of the food (ob).

[0066] The probe device (2) can communicate with the cooking appliance via wires and / or wirelessly. For example, the probe device (2) may include a communication line, and this communication line may be connected to a communication terminal provided in the chamber (50) of the cooking appliance (1).

[0067] As another example, the probe device (2) may include a wireless communication module capable of communicating with the wireless communication module of the cooking appliance (1).

[0068] The probe device (2) can transmit information related to the deep temperature of the food (ob) to the cooking device (1). For example, the probe device (2) can transmit information related to the deep temperature of the food (ob) to the cooking device (1) via wired or wireless communication.

[0069] The cooking device (1) can receive information related to the deep temperature of the food (ob) from the probe device (2) via wired or wireless communication.

[0070] FIG. 4 illustrates an example of a control block diagram of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 4, the cooking appliance (1) may include a user interface device (40), a sensor unit (100), a heater (80), a fan (90), a communication unit (300), and / or a control unit (200). The control unit (200) is electrically connected to components of the cooking appliance (1) and may control the components of the cooking appliance (1).

[0072] The user interface device (40) can enable the user and the cooking appliance (1) to interact with each other.

[0073] The user interface device (40) may include an output interface device (41) and an input interface device (42).

[0074] At least one input interface device (42) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0075] At least one input interface device (42) can receive user input.

[0076] At least one input interface device (42) may include a start / select button, a dial, a set / cancel button, an auto-cook button, and / or a dial.

[0077] The Start / Select button can receive commands to select the setting selected by the dial and to start cooking.

[0078] The stop / cancel button can receive a command to cancel the setting selected by the dial and a command to stop cooking.

[0079] The auto-cook button can receive commands to input information about the dish (ob). If the user is unsure about the recipe for a dish, the auto-cook button allows the user to input information about the dish (ob) they wish to cook.

[0080] In various embodiments, at least one input interface device (42) may include a communication unit (300), in view of the fact that user input may be received from an external device (e.g., a smartphone, a server) via the communication unit (300).

[0081] Each button and / or dial may include a visual indicator (e.g., a phrase, an icon, etc.) that may indicate its function.

[0082] Here, terms such as "button" and "dial" can be replaced with "input device" in the sense that they receive user input. Furthermore, input devices such as "button" and "dial" can be replaced with various types of input devices.

[0083] For example, a button or dial may be replaced with a UI element (User Interface Element), a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0084] At least one input interface device (42) may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0085] At least one output interface device (41) can transmit various information related to the operation of the cooking appliance (1) to the user by generating sensory information.

[0086] For example, at least one output interface device (41) can transmit information related to the operation time of the cooking appliance (1), the settings of the cooking appliance (1), etc. to the user. Information related to the operation of the cooking appliance (1) can be output by a display, an indicator, a voice, etc. At least one output interface device (41) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an indicator, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0087] At least one output interface device (41) can display information related to the operation of the cooking appliance (1). At least one output interface device (41) can display information input by a user or information provided to a user on various screens.

[0088] The user interface device (40) can receive user input for selecting a cooking mode including an eco mode and a normal mode.

[0089] The control unit (200) can control the operation of the cooking appliance (1) by processing commands received through the input interface device (42).

[0090] The sensor unit (100) can collect information related to the cooking appliance (1). The information related to the cooking appliance (1) may include not only information directly related to the cooking appliance (1), but also information on the food (ob).

[0091] The sensor unit (100) may include a temperature sensor (101) that measures the temperature of the chamber (50).

[0092] The temperature sensor (101) can be installed at various locations inside the main body (1h). The temperature sensor (101) can transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the detected temperature to the control unit (200). The control unit (200) can control at least one of the heater (80) and the fan (90) based on the temperature of the chamber (50) measured by the temperature sensor (101).

[0093] The sensor unit (100) may include a first sensor (103) that detects the tray (55).

[0094] The first sensor (103) that detects the tray (55) can collect information related to whether the tray (55) is mounted.

[0095] The first sensor (103) can detect whether the tray (55) is placed on a plurality of rails (51, 52) for placing the tray (55).

[0096] The first sensor (103) may also be called a tray (55) sensor from the perspective of detecting whether the tray (55) is mounted.

[0097] The first sensor (103) can detect whether a tray (55) is placed on the lower rail (51). The first sensor (103) can detect whether a tray (55) is placed on the upper rail (52). As described above, when a tray (55) is placed on the upper rail (52), the chamber (50) can be partitioned into an upper chamber (L1) and a lower chamber (L2). That is, the first sensor (103) can detect the tray (55) that partitions the chamber (50) into an upper chamber (L1) and a lower chamber (L2).

[0098] The first sensor (103) can detect the tray (55) in various ways. For example, the first sensor (103) can detect the tray (55) by measuring the electrostatic capacitance that changes depending on the placement of the tray (55). As another example, the first sensor (103) can detect the tray (55) by measuring the load that changes depending on the placement of the tray (55). As another example, the first sensor (103) can be implemented as an optical sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an infrared sensor, or the like.

[0099] According to various embodiments, the first sensor (103) may include a camera (60).

[0100] The first sensor (103) can transmit information related to whether the tray (55) is detected to the control unit (200).

[0101] The detection of the tray (55) by the first sensor (103) may include not only the first sensor (103) directly detecting the tray (55), but also the first sensor (103) transmitting information related to whether the tray (55) is mounted to the control unit (200), and the control unit (200) identifying whether the tray (55) is mounted based on the information related to whether the tray (55) is mounted.

[0102] The sensor unit (100) may include a second sensor (105) that collects information on the food (ob) placed in the chamber (50).

[0103] The second sensor (105) can collect information on the food (ob) placed in the chamber (50).

[0104] The second sensor (105) can measure the degree of browning of the food (ob) placed in the chamber (50).

[0105] For example, the second sensor (105) can collect information related to the degree of browning of the food (ob).

[0106] The second sensor (105) may also be called a browning sensor from the perspective of measuring the degree of browning of the food (ob).

[0107] The second sensor (105) can measure the degree of browning of the food (ob) in various ways. For example, the second sensor (105) can include a camera (60) that acquires an image of the food (ob). As another example, the second sensor (105) can include a chromameter that acquires color information of the food (ob). As another example, the second sensor (105) can acquire information related to factors generated according to the browning of the food (ob). For example, the second sensor (105) can include a carbon monoxide measurement sensor and / or a vapor sensor.

[0108] The second sensor (105) can transmit information related to the degree of browning of the food (ob) to the control unit (200). The information related to the degree of browning of the food (ob) can include image information of the chamber (50) in which the food (ob) is placed, color information, carbon monoxide information of the chamber (50), and / or vapor information of the chamber (50).

[0109] The measurement of the browning degree of the food (ob) by the second sensor (105) may include not only the direct measurement of the browning degree of the food (ob) by the second sensor (105), but also the identification of the browning degree of the food (ob) based on the information related to the browning degree of the food (ob) by the second sensor (105) to the control unit (200).

[0110] For example, the control unit (200) can identify the degree of browning of the food (ob) included in the image acquired by the second sensor (105) (e.g., camera (60)) using a learning model and / or a lookup table.

[0111] As another example, the control unit (200) can identify the degree of browning of the food (ob) based on carbon monoxide information obtained by the second sensor (105) (e.g., carbon monoxide measurement sensor) using a learning model and / or a lookup table.

[0112] As another example, the control unit (200) can identify the degree of browning of the food (ob) based on steam information acquired by the second sensor (105) (e.g., steam sensor) using a learning model and / or a lookup table.

[0113] The control unit (200) may use a learning model, which may include using a learning model stored in the cooking device (1) and / or using a learning model stored in an external device (e.g., a server) via the communication unit (300).

[0114] The learning model includes an artificial intelligence model. The learning model may be generated through machine learning and / or deep learning. The learning model may be generated by the server (3) and stored in the memory (220) of the cooking appliance (1). The learning algorithm may include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples provided.

[0115] The learning model may include multiple artificial neural network layers. The artificial neural network may include, but is not limited to, a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), and / or deep Q-networks. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, the artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0116] According to various embodiments, the control unit (200) may acquire information about the food (ob) included in an image acquired by two sensors (e.g., a camera (60)) placed in the chamber (50) using a learning model. The information about the food (ob) may include the type of the food (ob), the weight of the food (ob), and / or the recipe of the food (ob).

[0117] In addition, the sensor unit (100) may include various sensors. For example, the cooking appliance (1) may include a current sensor and a voltage sensor. The current sensor may measure the current applied to the electronic components of the cooking appliance (1). The voltage sensor may measure the voltage applied to the electronic components of the cooking appliance (1).

[0118] According to various embodiments, the sensor unit (100) may not include some of the sensors described above.

[0119] The heater (80) can heat the air in the chamber (50).

[0120] The heater (80) may include a light wave heater (80) and / or an electric heater (80).

[0121] The control unit (200) can control the operation of the heater (80).

[0122] For example, the control unit (200) can turn on the heater (80). The control unit (200) can turn off the heater (80). The control unit (200) can control the heater (80) to turn on / off.

[0123] Turning on the heater (80) may include changing the heater (80) from an off state to an on state.

[0124] Turning off the heater (80) may include changing the heater (80) in the on state or the heater (80) under on / off control to the off state.

[0125] Controlling the heater (80) on / off may include repeatedly controlling the heater (80) on / off to achieve a predetermined purpose (e.g., maintaining the temperature of the chamber (50)).

[0126] According to various embodiments, the control unit (200) can adjust the heating level and heating time of the heater (80) according to the type, number, size and / or cooking course of the food (ob).

[0127] A fan (90) can circulate air in the chamber (50).

[0128] The fan (90) may also be called a convection fan (90) from the perspective that it transfers air heated by the heater (80) to the food (ob) through a convection phenomenon.

[0129] The control unit (200) can control the operation of the fan (90).

[0130] For example, the control unit (200) can turn on the fan (90). The control unit (200) can turn off the fan (90).

[0131] Turning on the fan (90) may include changing the fan (90) from an off state to an on state.

[0132] Turning off the fan (90) may include changing the fan (90) from an on state to an off state.

[0133] According to various embodiments, the control unit (200) can adjust the rotation speed and rotation time of the fan (90) according to the type, number, size and / or cooking course of the food (ob).

[0134] The communication unit (300) can communicate with an external device (e.g., a probe device (2), a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance) via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0135] The communication unit (300) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0136] The communication unit (300) can transmit data to an external device or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication unit (300) can establish communication with a server, a user device, and / or other home appliances, and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0137] To this end, the communication unit (300) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication unit (300) can include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, a corresponding communication module can communicate with the external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These different types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0138] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0139] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit (300). The mobile communication unit (300) transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0140] In one embodiment, the communication unit (300) can communicate with external devices such as a server, a user device, and other home appliances via a surrounding access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the cooking appliance (1), other home appliances, and / or user devices are connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The cooking appliance (1), other home appliances, and / or user devices can be connected to the server via the wide area network (WAN).

[0141] The control unit (200) can receive recipe information from an external device through the communication unit (300). The control unit (200) can receive a command for controlling the cooking device (1) from the external device through the communication unit (300). The control unit (200) can receive information on the food (ob) from the external device through the communication unit (300). The control unit (200) can receive information on the core temperature of the food (ob) from the probe device (2) through the communication unit (300).

[0142] The control unit (200) may include a processor (201) and a memory (202). The processor (201) may be hardware and include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor (201) may control electrically connected components of the cooking device (1) using programs, instructions, and / or data stored in the memory (202) for the operation of the cooking device (1). The control unit (200) may be implemented as a control circuit including circuit elements such as capacitors, inductors, and resistors. The processor (201) and the memory (202) may be implemented as separate chips or as a single chip. In addition, the control unit (200) may include a plurality of processors and a plurality of memories.

[0143] The memory (202) can store programs, applications, and / or data for the operation of the cooking appliance (1), and can store data generated by the processor (201). The memory (202) can include non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and flash memory for storing data for a long period of time. The memory (202) can include volatile memory such as S-RAM (Static Random Access Memory) and D-RAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing data.

[0144] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) can control various configurations of the cooking appliance (1) according to various cooking modes.

[0145] The various cooking modes may include normal mode and eco mode.

[0146] Normal mode is a mode for general cooking, and Eco mode is a mode that can minimize energy consumption compared to Normal mode and achieve the same cooking efficiency as Normal mode.

[0147] Eco mode may be called an energy saving mode in that it minimizes energy use, a heater (80) usage restriction mode in that it minimizes the use of the heater (80), or a maturation mode in that there is a section in which the heater (80) is turned off and only the fan (90) operates.

[0148] The components of the cooking appliance (1) are not limited to those described above. The cooking appliance (1) may further include various components in addition to the components described above, and some of the components described above may be omitted.

[0149] Fig. 5 shows an example of a flowchart of a control method of a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment.

[0150] Referring to Fig. 5, the cooking appliance (1) can start eco mode according to user input (1000).

[0151] Before entering the start command for eco mode, the user can enter the set temperature (sp) and set time (st).

[0152] In one embodiment, the eco mode may include a set temperature (sp) and a set time (st).

[0153] The fact that the eco mode includes a set temperature (sp) and a set time (st) may include that the user inputs the set temperature (sp) and the set time (st) before starting the eco mode.

[0154] Entering the set temperature (sp) and set time (st) may include entering information on the food to be cooked (ob).

[0155] Information on the food (ob) may include the type of the food (ob) and the weight of the food (ob). The memory (202) may store a lookup table that matches the set temperature (sp) and the set time (st) according to the information on the food (ob), and when the information on the food (ob) is input, the control unit (200) may identify the set time (st) and the set temperature (sp) corresponding to the information on the food (ob) based on the lookup table.

[0156] In one embodiment, the cooker (1) can receive a command to start eco mode via the input interface device (42).

[0157] In one embodiment, the cooking appliance (1) can receive a command to start eco mode from an external device through the communication unit (300).

[0158] The control unit (200) can start cooking in eco mode based on receiving a command to start eco mode.

[0159] The control unit (200) can turn on the fan (90) based on the start of the eco mode (1100). The control unit (200) can turn on the fan (90) until cooking in the eco mode is finished.

[0160] The control unit (200) can turn on the heater (80) based on the start of the eco mode and maintain the on state of the heater (80) until the temperature of the chamber (50) reaches the set temperature (sp) (1200).

[0161] The control unit (200) can turn on the heater (80) based on the start of the eco mode.

[0162] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) can turn on the heater (80) based on the start of the eco mode and identify the start point of the on / off control of the heater (80) based on the temperature measured from the temperature sensor (101).

[0163] For example, the control unit (200) can start on / off control of the heater (80) when the temperature of the chamber (50) measured by the temperature sensor (101) reaches the set temperature (sp).

[0164] That is, the control unit (200) can turn on the heater (80) based on the start of the eco mode and maintain the on state of the heater (80) until the temperature of the chamber (50) reaches the set temperature (sp) (1200).

[0165] The control unit (200) can control the heater (80) to maintain the temperature of the chamber (50) at the set temperature (sp) based on the temperature of the chamber (50) reaching the set temperature (sp) (1300).

[0166] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) can control the heater (80) to turn on / off so that the temperature measured by the temperature sensor (101) maintains the set temperature (sp).

[0167] For example, the control unit (200) can control the heater (80) to turn on / off based on the deviation between the temperature measured by the temperature sensor (101) and the set temperature (sp).

[0168] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) may perform control to turn off the heater (80) when the temperature measured by the temperature sensor (101) is higher than the set temperature (sp) by a predetermined value, and to turn on the heater (80) when the temperature measured by the temperature sensor (101) is lower than the set temperature (sp) by a predetermined value.

[0169] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) can control the heater (80) on / off using a PID control (Proportional Integral Derivation Control) method based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor (101) and the set temperature (sp).

[0170] When the heater (80) is turned on / off using the PID control method based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor (101) and the set temperature (sp), unlike the conventional on / off control, unnecessary overshoot and undershoot can be minimized, thereby minimizing the energy usage of the heater (80).

[0171] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) may perform on / off control of the heater (80) and turn off the heater (80) based on a predetermined condition being satisfied.

[0172] Turning off the heater (80) may include changing the heater (80) under on / off control to the off state.

[0173] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) may compare the cooking progress time with a predetermined ratio (pd) of the set time (st) (1350). The predetermined ratio (pd) of the set time (st) may mean a value obtained by multiplying the set time (st) by the predetermined ratio (pd).

[0174] Cooking time may include the time between when Eco Mode was started and the current time.

[0175] The time between the start of the eco mode and the present time may include the time between the start of the fan (90) (1100) and the present time.

[0176] The time between the start of eco mode and the present time may include the time between the first time the heater (80) was turned on (1200) and the present time.

[0177] A predetermined ratio (pd) may be stored in the memory (202). The predetermined ratio (pd) may be determined in advance through experimentation.

[0178] To determine the desired ratio (pd), experiments were conducted on the cooking material (ob) under various conditions.

[0179] Since hot heat rises, a tray (55) that divides the chamber (50) into an upper chamber (L1) and a lower chamber (L2) is inserted into the upper rail (52), and when cooking food (ob) in the upper chamber (L1), heat can be efficiently transferred to the food (ob) even with a shorter heater (80) operating time.

[0180] That is, when cooking food (ob) placed on a tray (55) inserted into the upper rail (52), the operating time of the heater (80) can be minimized.

[0181] According to a study by the United States Department of Agriculture, cooked food (ob) is safe to eat if its core temperature is 165°F (73.9°C) or higher.

[0182] In order to achieve cooking performance similar to that in normal mode while minimizing the operating time of the heater (80), an experiment was conducted by changing a predetermined ratio (pd) so that the deep temperature of the food (ob) satisfies the minimum condition.

[0183] As a result of the experiment, the deep temperature of the food (ob) was related to the degree of browning of the food (ob), and the deep temperature of the food (ob) was measured using a probe device (2), and the degree of browning of the food (ob) was measured using a second sensor (105) (e.g., a colorimeter).

[0184] In addition, as a result of the experiment, it was confirmed that even if the heater (80) is turned off when the browning degree of the food (ob) reaches a predetermined degree (when the browning of the food (ob) is completed), if the food (ob) remains in the chamber (50) of the cooking appliance (1) in which the fan (90) is operating, the temperature of the inner part of the food (ob) reaches an appropriate temperature.

[0185] Accordingly, if the heater (80) is turned off when the browning degree of the food (ob) reaches a predetermined level and only the fan (90) is kept in operation for a predetermined period of time, the food (ob) can be cooked efficiently with the minimum heater (80) operation time.

[0186] To determine the point at which the browning degree of the food (ob) reaches a certain level, experiments were conducted on various food (ob).

[0187] For example, assuming that the desired set temperature (sp) for cooking 500 g of steak is 180°C and the desired set time (st) is 30 minutes, it was confirmed that the degree of browning of the steak reached the desired degree when about 75% to 80% of the set time (st) (about 22.5 to 24 minutes) was reached.

[0188] As another example, assuming that the desired set temperature (sp) for cooking 1 kg of chicken is 200°C and the desired set time (st) is 1 hour, it was confirmed that the browning degree of the chicken reached the desired degree when about 75% to 80% of the set time (st) (about 45 to 48 minutes) was reached.

[0189] In this way, it was confirmed that for most of the dishes (ob), the browning degree of the dish (ob) reached a predetermined level after about 75% to 80% of the set time (st).

[0190] Based on these experimental results, it was confirmed that if the heater (80) is turned off when a predetermined ratio (pd) of the set time (st) has elapsed and only the fan (90) is operated for the remaining time, it is possible to achieve cooking performance similar to that in the normal mode while minimizing the operation time of the heater (80).

[0191] Accordingly, the predetermined ratio (pd) is set to approximately 75% to 80%. More preferably, the predetermined ratio (pd) may be 78%.

[0192] Meanwhile, according to various embodiments, the predetermined ratio (pd) may be continuously updated to an optimal value. For example, the memory (202) may store an artificial intelligence model configured to obtain an optimal predetermined ratio (pd) by using image information acquired from the camera (60) and cooking progress time information (and / or heater (80) operating time information) as learning data.

[0193] The artificial intelligence model can be trained to produce an optimal predetermined ratio (pd) according to information on the food (ob) by using image information obtained from the camera (60) and cooking progress time information (and / or operation time information of the heater (80)) as learning data.

[0194] As another example, the control unit (200) can control the communication unit (300) to transmit image information and cooking progress time information acquired from the camera (60) to an external device storing an artificial intelligence model configured to obtain an optimal predetermined ratio (pd) by using the image information and cooking progress time information acquired from the camera (60) as learning data.

[0195] The artificial intelligence model stored in the external device can be trained to produce an optimal predetermined ratio (pd) according to information on the food (ob) by using image information and cooking progress time information obtained from the camera (60) as learning data.

[0196] The control unit (200) can input information about the food (ob) into an artificial intelligence model to determine a predetermined ratio (pd).

[0197] In one embodiment, information about the food (ob) may be obtained based on user input. For example, a user may input information about the food (ob) through a user interface device (40), and the control unit (200) may determine a predetermined ratio (pd) based on the information about the food (ob) received through the user interface device (40).

[0198] In one embodiment, information about the food (ob) may be acquired based on an image captured by the camera (60). For example, the control unit (200) may acquire information about the food (ob) placed in the chamber (50) based on processing an image acquired through the camera (60), and may determine a predetermined ratio (pd) based on the information about the food (ob).

[0199] In the operation of acquiring information on the food (ob) placed in the chamber (50) based on processing the image acquired through the camera (60), an artificial intelligence model stored in the cooking device (1) and / or an artificial intelligence model stored in an external device can be used.

[0200] For example, the control unit (200) can obtain information on the food (ob) by inputting an image obtained through the camera (60) into an artificial intelligence model configured to identify information on the food (ob) based on the image obtained through the camera (60).

[0201] According to the present disclosure, by determining a predetermined ratio (pd) using an artificial intelligence model, the heater (80) can be turned off at a more accurate time depending on the type of food (ob).

[0202] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) can control the heater (80) to maintain the temperature of the chamber (50) at the set temperature (sp) until the cooking progress time reaches a predetermined ratio (pd) of the set time (st) (No of 1350, 1300).

[0203] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) can turn off the heater (80) (1400) based on the cooking progress time reaching a predetermined percentage (pd) of the set time (st) (example of 1350).

[0204] For example, if the set time (st) is 100 minutes, the predetermined ratio (pd) of the set time (st) may be 75 to 80 minutes.

[0205] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) can turn off the heater (80) and maintain only the fan (90) on for a set period of time (st). That is, the control unit (200) can maintain the heater (80) off and only the fan (90) on for the remaining percentage (e.g., 25% to 20%) of the set period of time (st).

[0206] The control unit (200) can turn off the fan (90) (1500) based on the cooking progress time reaching the set time (st) (example of 1450).

[0207] Cooking in eco mode can be terminated by turning off the fan (90) (1600).

[0208] The cooking appliance (1) can notify that cooking is finished based on the completion of cooking.

[0209] For example, the control unit (200) can control the output interface device (41) to output sensory information indicating that cooking has been completed.

[0210] As another example, the control unit (200) can transmit a signal indicating that cooking is complete to an external device through the communication unit (300).

[0211] According to the present disclosure, by turning off the heater (80) and operating only the fan (90) when the cooking progress time has elapsed by a predetermined ratio (pd) of the set time (st), the electric energy consumed by the heater (80) can be minimized, while obtaining satisfactory results in both browning and deep temperature of the food (ob).

[0212] According to the present disclosure, a cooking appliance (1) is provided that provides an eco mode that can achieve cooking performance similar to that of a normal mode while consuming less energy.

[0213] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of operation of a heater (80) when a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment operates in normal mode.

[0214] Referring to FIG. 6, the control unit (200) can turn on the heater (80) until the temperature of the chamber (50) reaches the set temperature (sp) based on the start of the normal mode.

[0215] At this time, the control unit (200) can turn on the fan (90) based on the start of the normal mode. The control unit (200) can maintain the on state of the fan (90) until cooking in the normal mode is finished.

[0216] Meanwhile, in the normal mode of cooking, the control unit (200) can control the heater (80) to maintain the temperature of the chamber (50) at the set temperature (sp) until the normal mode of cooking is completed, based on the temperature of the chamber (50) reaching the set temperature (sp).

[0217] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) can turn off the heater (80) and the fan (90) based on the cooking progress time reaching the set time (st).

[0218] That is, the control unit (200) can continuously perform on / off control of the heater (80) until cooking in the normal mode is finished, and can turn off the heater (80) based on the end of cooking in the normal mode.

[0219] In normal mode, the heater (80) is turned on for approximately 25% to 20% of the set time (st) compared to the eco mode. Accordingly, in normal mode, the power consumption by the heater (80) is greater than in the eco mode.

[0220] Fig. 7 illustrates an example of operation of a heater (80) when a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment operates in eco mode.

[0221] Referring to FIG. 7, the control unit (200) can turn on the heater (80) until the temperature of the chamber (50) reaches the set temperature (sp) based on the start of the eco mode.

[0222] At this time, the control unit (200) can turn on the fan (90) based on the start of the eco mode. The control unit (200) can maintain the on state of the fan (90) until the cooking in the normal mode is finished.

[0223] Meanwhile, in cooking in eco mode, the control unit (200) can control the heater (80) to maintain the temperature of the chamber (50) at the set temperature (sp) for a predetermined ratio (pd) of the set time (st) based on the temperature of the chamber (50) reaching the set temperature (sp).

[0224] In the present disclosure, since it is estimated that the degree of browning reaches a predetermined degree at a point in time corresponding to a predetermined ratio (pd) of the set time (st), the point in time corresponding to the predetermined ratio (pd) of the set time (st) can be expressed as the end point of surface cooking.

[0225] The end point of surface cooking may correspond to the value obtained by multiplying the set time (st) by a predetermined ratio (pd).

[0226] From the time the surface cooking is finished until the cooking time reaches the set time (st), only the fan (90) can remain on while the heater (80) is off.

[0227] Accordingly, the deep temperature of the food (ob) rises due to the latent heat within the chamber (50).

[0228] In the present disclosure, the section from the end of surface cooking to the end of cooking in eco mode is a section for increasing the deep temperature and can be expressed as a deep cooking section.

[0229] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) can turn off the fan (90) based on the cooking progress time reaching the set time (st).

[0230] According to the present disclosure, the eco mode is a cooking mode that does not require a preheating operation, so that the user can start cooking immediately after placing the food (ob) into the chamber (50), thereby improving the user's convenience.

[0231] In addition, according to the present disclosure, by using a predetermined ratio (pd) that has been experimentally proven, the state of the food (ob) can be indirectly estimated without a sensor for identifying the state of the food (ob), thereby determining the off point of the heater (80).

[0232] FIG. 8a illustrates an example in which the off point of the heater (80) is changed when the cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment operates in eco mode.

[0233] According to various embodiments, the control unit (200) may adjust the surface cooking end time based on whether a predetermined condition is satisfied. For example, assuming that the surface cooking end time is preset to 78% of the set time (st), the surface cooking end time may be advanced by a ratio less than 78% of the set time (st) or delayed by a ratio greater than 78% of the set time (st) based on whether the predetermined condition is satisfied.

[0234] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) may determine the expected surface cooking end time as a predetermined ratio (pd) of the set time (st). However, the control unit (200) may adjust the surface cooking end time based on data collected from a second sensor (105) configured to measure the degree of browning of the food (ob) placed in the chamber (50).

[0235] Referring to FIG. 8a, in one embodiment, the control unit (200) can turn off the heater (80) if the browning degree of the food (ob) measured by the second sensor (105) exceeds a predetermined degree even if the cooking progress time does not reach a predetermined ratio (pd) of the set time (st).

[0236] That is, even if the cooking progress time does not reach a predetermined ratio (pd) of the set time (st), if the control unit (200) determines that the browning degree of the food (ob) measured by the second sensor (105) exceeds a predetermined degree, the control unit (200) can terminate surface cooking.

[0237] Depending on the various embodiments, the power consumed to operate the sensor may also need to be minimized as the cooking mode corresponds to the eco mode.

[0238] In one embodiment, if the control unit (200) considers that the expected surface cooking end time is determined as a first predetermined ratio (e.g., 78%) of the set time (st), the control unit (200) can determine the operating time of the second sensor (105) based on a second predetermined ratio (e.g., 75%) that is smaller than the first predetermined ratio.

[0239] For example, the control unit (200) may turn on the second sensor (105) so that the second sensor (105) collects data of the food (ob) based on the cooking progress time reaching a second predetermined ratio of the set time (st).

[0240] The control unit (200) can turn off the heater (80) when the browning degree of the food (ob) measured by the second sensor (105) exceeds a predetermined degree, even if the cooking time has not reached a first predetermined ratio of the set time (st). At this time, the control unit (200) can also turn off the second sensor (105).

[0241] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) may not turn off the heater (80) if it is determined that the browning degree of the food (ob) measured by the second sensor (105) does not exceed a predetermined degree even if the cooking progress time reaches a first predetermined percentage of the set time (st). In this case as well, the control unit (200) may turn off the heater (80) if the cooking progress time reaches a third predetermined percentage (e.g., 80%) of the set time (st).

[0242] That is, in one embodiment, even if the cooking time reaches the first predetermined ratio of the set time (st), if it is determined that the browning degree of the food (ob) measured by the second sensor (105) does not exceed the predetermined degree, the heater (80) is not turned off; if it is determined that the browning degree of the food (ob) measured by the second sensor (105) exceeds the predetermined degree, the heater (80) is turned off; and if the cooking time reaches the third predetermined ratio of the set time (st) without it being determined that the browning degree of the food (ob) measured by the second sensor (105) exceeds the predetermined degree, the heater (80) can be turned off.

[0243] According to the present disclosure, the end point of surface cooking can be more accurately determined using a sensor capable of measuring the degree of browning of a food (ob). That is, according to the present disclosure, the end point of surface cooking can be more accurately determined using a sensor as an auxiliary means.

[0244] FIG. 8b illustrates another example in which the off point of the heater (80) is changed when the cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment operates in eco mode.

[0245] Referring to Fig. 8b, the cooking appliance (1) can perform a preheating operation in a preheating mode. The user can input a command to the cooking appliance (1) to start the preheating operation for the purpose of preheating the chamber (50) before placing the food (ob) into the chamber (50).

[0246] Meanwhile, since cooking in eco mode does not require a preheating operation and the purpose is to minimize the electric energy consumed by the heater (80), there is a need to adjust the surface cooking completion time when the preheating operation precedes cooking in eco mode.

[0247] The control unit (200) can change a predetermined ratio (pd) based on the completion of the preheating operation for turning on the heater (80) before the eco mode starts.

[0248] For example, if the heater (80) is turned on by starting the preheating operation at a first time point (-t1) before the cooking in eco mode starts, and the preheating operation is ended at a second time point (-t2), the control unit (200) can change a predetermined ratio (pd) based on the length of time between the first time point (-t1) and the second time point (-t2).

[0249] If the control unit (200) is configured to determine the expected surface cooking completion time as a first predetermined ratio (e.g., 78%) of the set time (st), the control unit (200) can change the first predetermined ratio to a second predetermined ratio (e.g., 75%) that is smaller than the first predetermined ratio based on the length of time between the first time point (-t1) and the second time point (-t2).

[0250] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) may change the predetermined ratio (pd) only if the time between the start time of the eco mode and the second time point (-t2) is within a predetermined time.

[0251] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) may not change the predetermined ratio (pd) based on the time between the start time of the eco mode and the second time (-t2) exceeding a predetermined time.

[0252] According to the present disclosure, when a heater (80) is used to preheat a chamber (50) before cooking in eco mode begins, the purpose of energy reduction in eco mode can be achieved by advancing the off time of the heater (80) in consideration of the energy consumed by the heater (80) during that period.

[0253] FIG. 9 illustrates an example in which the cooking end time is changed when the cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment operates in eco mode.

[0254] According to one embodiment, a cooking appliance (1) can save a user's time by ending cooking without further cooking when the inner temperature of the food (ob) satisfies a minimum condition.

[0255] The reason why the cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment does not end cooking for the remaining time even after the heater (80) is turned off is to raise the deep temperature of the food (ob) by using the latent heat inside the chamber (50).

[0256] Meanwhile, when the deep temperature of the food (ob) satisfies the minimum condition, there is no longer any need for the cooking device (1) to maintain the cooking state.

[0257] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) can turn off the fan (90) if the core temperature of the food (ob) measured by the probe device exceeds a predetermined level even if the cooking progress time does not reach the set time (st). That is, the control unit (200) can end cooking if the core temperature of the food (ob) measured by the probe device exceeds a predetermined level even if the cooking progress time does not reach the set time (st).

[0258] According to the present disclosure, the cooking completion time can be advanced depending on the deep temperature of the food (ob), thereby improving user convenience.

[0259] Fig. 10 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a control method of a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment. Fig. 11 illustrates an example of a first interface provided by a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment. Fig. 12 illustrates an example of a second interface provided by a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment.

[0260] As explained above, when cooking the food (ob) in the upper chamber (L1), heat could be efficiently transferred to the food (ob) even with a shorter heater (80) operation time.

[0261] Accordingly, in eco mode, the food (ob) needs to be placed in the upper chamber (L1).

[0262] In one embodiment, the cooking appliance (1) can prevent the user from expressing dissatisfaction with the cooking performance in the eco mode by indirectly forcing the user to place the food (ob) in the upper chamber (L1) as a prerequisite for using the eco mode.

[0263] Referring to FIG. 10, in one embodiment, the first sensor (103) can detect whether a tray (55) is placed in the chamber (50).

[0264] For example, the first sensor (103) can detect whether a tray (55) is placed on the upper rail (52). At this time, the tray (55) can divide the chamber (50) into an upper chamber (L1) and a lower chamber (L2).

[0265] Referring to FIG. 11, the user interface device (40) may include an output interface device (41) configured to provide various interfaces for setting the cooking appliance (1), and an input interface device (42) for receiving user input for setting the cooking appliance (1).

[0266] In one embodiment, the output interface device (41) may include a display. The display may provide various visual interfaces.

[0267] In one embodiment, the input interface device (42) may include a start / select button (42a). The start / select button (42a) may be a button for starting a cooking operation or for selecting a setting provided by the output interface device (41).

[0268] In one embodiment, the input interface device (42) may include a stop / cancel button (42b). The stop / cancel button (42b) may be a button for stopping a cooking operation or canceling a selection of a setting provided by the output interface device (41).

[0269] In one embodiment, the input interface device (42) may include a dial (42c). The dial (42c) may be a device for changing settings provided by the output interface device (41). For example, the settings provided by the output interface device (41) may be changed by rotating the dial (42c).

[0270] In one embodiment, the input interface device (42) may include an auto-cook button (42d). Based on the selection of the auto-cook button (42d), the output interface device (41) may provide an interface for selecting auto-cooking.

[0271] In one embodiment, the input interface device (42) may include a communication button (42e). Based on the selection of the communication button (42e), the output interface device (41) may provide an interface for establishing communication with an external device and / or an interface for receiving a recipe from the external device.

[0272] The control unit (200) can provide a first interface (U1) for selection of the cooking chamber (50) in response to the detection of the tray (55) by the first sensor (103) (example of 2010) (2100).

[0273] For example, the control unit (200) can control the output interface device (41) to provide the first interface (U1) based on the selection of the power button (not shown) or the start / select button (42a) of the input interface device (42) in a state where the tray (55) is detected by the first sensor (103).

[0274] The first interface (U1) can guide selection of at least one of the upper chamber (L1) and the lower chamber (L2) as the cooking chamber (50).

[0275] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) may not provide the first interface (U1) based on the selection of the power button (not shown) or the start / select button (42a) of the input interface device (42) (No of 2010) while the tray (55) is not detected by the first sensor (103).

[0276] For example, the control unit (200) may provide one of the interfaces (U3, U4, U5, U6, U7, U8, see FIGS. 13 to 16) to be described later based on whether the power button (not shown) or the start / select button (42a) of the input interface device (42) is selected in a state where the tray (55) is not detected by the first sensor (103).

[0277] According to various embodiments, the control unit (200) may also provide a second interface (U2) that does not provide an option to select an eco mode based on whether the power button (not shown) or the start / select button (42a) of the input interface device (42) is selected (No of 2010) while the tray (55) is not detected by the first sensor (103).

[0278] According to the present disclosure, the option to select the eco mode is not provided by the cooking appliance (1) when the tray (55) is not detected by the first sensor (103).

[0279] In one embodiment, the eco mode may be selectable only when the tray (55) is detected by the first sensor (103).

[0280] According to the present disclosure, by not providing the eco mode as an option when the tray (55) is not detected, the eco mode is prevented from being executed in a situation where the eco mode cannot be realized, thereby preventing complaints from users about the cooking performance of the eco mode.

[0281] Meanwhile, according to various embodiments, the eco mode may be selectable even when the tray (55) is not detected by the first sensor (103).

[0282] The user can select at least one of the upper chamber (L1) or the lower chamber (L2) using the input interface device (42).

[0283] Referring to FIG. 12, the control unit (200) may provide a second interface (U2) that guides selection of either the normal mode or the eco mode in response to selection of the upper chamber (L1) as the cooking chamber (50) (2200).

[0284] For example, the control unit (200) can control the output interface device (41) to provide the second interface (U2) in response to the upper chamber (L1) being selected via the input interface device (42).

[0285] The second interface (U2) is for setting the cooking mode and can guide you to select either normal mode or eco mode.

[0286] The user can select either the normal mode or the eco mode using the input interface device (42).

[0287] Depending on the various embodiments, it is of course possible to implement more modes as cooking modes other than normal mode and eco mode.

[0288] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) may, in response to the selection of the lower chamber (L2) as the cooking chamber (50), provide any one of the interfaces (U3, U4, U5, U6, U7, see FIGS. 13 to 15) to be described below.

[0289] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) may provide an interface that does not provide an option to select an eco mode in response to the lower chamber (L2) being selected as the cooking chamber (50).

[0290] According to the present disclosure, when the upper chamber (L1) is not selected as the cooking chamber (50), the option to select the eco mode is not provided by the cooking appliance (1).

[0291] In one embodiment, the eco mode may be selectable only when the upper chamber (L1) is selected as the cooking chamber (50).

[0292] According to the present disclosure, when the upper chamber (L1) is not selected as the cooking chamber (50), the eco mode is not provided as an option, thereby preventing the eco mode from being executed in a situation where the eco mode cannot be realized, thereby preventing complaints from the user about the cooking performance in the eco mode.

[0293] Meanwhile, according to various embodiments, the control unit (200) may provide a second interface (U2) that provides an option to select the eco mode even when the lower chamber (L2) is selected as the cooking chamber (50).

[0294] The control unit (200) may determine a predetermined ratio (pd) as a first value based on the selection of the upper chamber (L1) as the cooking chamber (50) and the selection of the eco mode as the cooking mode, and may determine a predetermined ratio (pd) as a second value based on the selection of the lower chamber (L2) as the cooking chamber (50) and the selection of the eco mode as the cooking mode. At this time, the second value may be greater than the first value. For example, the second value may be 80% to 85%, which is greater than 75% to 80%.

[0295] According to the present disclosure, even if the lower chamber (L2) is selected as the cooking chamber (50), the user can select the eco mode, but the cooking performance can be maintained by making the size of a predetermined ratio (pd) larger than when the upper chamber (L1) is selected as the cooking chamber (50).

[0296] According to various embodiments, the control unit (200) may provide a second interface (U2) for setting the screen for the upper chamber (L1) in response to all chambers (50) being selected as the cooking chamber (50), in which an option for selecting the eco mode is provided, and a second interface (U2) for setting the screen for the lower chamber (L2) in which an option for selecting the eco mode is not provided.

[0297] That is, according to various embodiments, the cooking appliance (1) can set the cooking mode for the upper chamber (L1) and the cooking mode for the lower chamber (L2) to be different from each other.

[0298] The control unit (200) receives the set time (st) and set temperature (sp) based on the selection of the normal mode as the cooking mode (2300), and can start cooking in the normal mode (2350). The description of operation 2300 overlaps with the description of operation 2400, and is therefore omitted.

[0299] Here, the normal mode is a separate cooking mode distinct from the eco mode, and may be a concept that includes various modes (e.g., steam mode, direct fire mode, grill mode, etc.).

[0300] The cooking appliance (1) can receive the set time (st) and set temperature (sp) based on the eco mode being selected as the cooking mode (2400).

[0301] The cooking appliance (1) can receive the set time (st) and set temperature (sp) through various methods.

[0302] Hereinafter, various methods for receiving the set time (st) and set temperature (sp) will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 15.

[0303] Fig. 13 illustrates examples of interfaces for directly inputting a set time (st) and a set temperature (sp) according to one embodiment. Fig. 14 illustrates examples of interfaces for indirectly inputting a set time (st) and a set temperature (sp) by inputting information on a food (ob) according to one embodiment. Fig. 15 illustrates examples of interfaces for indirectly inputting a set time (st) and a set temperature (sp) by receiving a recipe from an external device according to one embodiment.

[0304] Referring to Fig. 13, the cooking appliance (1) can provide an interface (U3, U4) for setting the set time (st) and set temperature (sp).

[0305] The cooking appliance (1) can receive the set time (st) and the set temperature (sp) through an interface (U3, U4) for setting the set time (st) and the set temperature (sp) (2400).

[0306] The control unit (200) can control the cooking appliance (1) to start the eco mode including the set time (st) and the set temperature (sp) in response to receiving a user input for starting the eco mode after the set time (st) and the set temperature (sp) are received (2450).

[0307] The interface (U3) for setting the set time (st) may include a visual display (e.g., a number) corresponding to the set time (st). The user can set the set time (st) by manipulating the input interface device (42) to change the set time (st) and then selecting it.

[0308] The interface (U3) for setting the set temperature (sp) may include a visual display (e.g., a number) corresponding to the set temperature (sp). The user can set the set temperature (sp) by manipulating the input interface device (42) to change the set temperature (sp) and then selecting it.

[0309] Once the selection of the set time (st) and set temperature (sp) is completed, the cooking appliance (1) can provide a visual indication asking whether to start the eco mode, and the user can input a command to start the eco mode by selecting the start / select button (42a).

[0310] Referring to Fig. 14, the cooking appliance (1) can provide an interface (U5, U6) for inputting information on the food to be cooked (ob) as an interface for setting the set time (st) and the set temperature (sp).

[0311] For example, the control unit (200) can control the output interface device (41) to provide an interface (U5, U6) for inputting information on the food (ob) based on the selection of the automatic cooking button (42d).

[0312] The cooking appliance (1) can indirectly receive the set time (st) and the set temperature (sp) by receiving information about the food (ob) through the interface (U5, U6) for inputting information about the food (ob) (2400). As described above, according to various embodiments, the control unit (200) can input information about the food (ob) into an artificial intelligence model to determine a predetermined ratio (pd).

[0313] The interface (U5, U6) for inputting information of the food (ob) may include an interface (U5) for inputting the type of the food (ob) and an interface (U6) for inputting the weight of the food (ob).

[0314] The user can input information about the food (ob) by inputting the type of the food (ob) and the weight of the food (ob) through the input interface device (42).

[0315] The cooking appliance (1) can obtain information on the food (ob) according to user input received through the user interface device (40).

[0316] The control unit (200) can determine the set time (st) and set temperature (sp) based on information about the food (ob) acquired according to user input. To this end, the memory (202) can store a lookup table in which the set time (st) and set temperature (sp) are mapped according to information about the food (ob).

[0317] The control unit (200) can determine the set time (st) and set temperature (sp) mapped to the information of the food (ob) based on the lookup table as the set time (st) and set temperature (sp) used in the eco mode.

[0318] The control unit (200) can control the cooking appliance (1) to start the eco mode including the set time (st) and the set temperature (sp) in response to receiving a user input for starting the eco mode after the set time (st) and the set temperature (sp) are determined (2450).

[0319] The interface (U5) for setting the type of food (ob) may include a visual indication (e.g., a phrase) corresponding to the name of the food (ob). The user can input the type of food (ob) by manipulating the input interface device (42) to change the type of food (ob) and then selecting it.

[0320] The interface (U6) for setting the weight of the food (ob) may include a visual indication (e.g., a number) corresponding to the weight. The user can input the weight of the food (ob) by manipulating the input interface device (42) to change the weight of the food (ob) and then selecting it.

[0321] When the type and weight of the food (ob) are entered, the cooking appliance (1) can provide a visual indication asking whether to start the eco mode, and the user can input a command to start the eco mode by selecting the start / select button (42a).

[0322] Referring to Fig. 15, the cooking appliance (1) can provide an interface (U7) for using a recipe received from an external device as an interface for setting a set time (st) and a set temperature (sp).

[0323] For example, the control unit (200) can control the output interface device (41) to provide an interface (U7) for using a recipe received from an external device based on the selection of the communication button (42e).

[0324] The cooking appliance (1) can indirectly receive the set time (st) and the set temperature (sp) by receiving information on the food (ob) from an external device through an interface (U7) for using a recipe received from the external device (2400). At this time, the information on the food (ob) may include recipe information on the food (ob) or information on the type and weight of the food (ob). As described above, according to various embodiments, the control unit (200) may input the information on the food (ob) into an artificial intelligence model to determine a predetermined ratio (pd).

[0325] An interface (U7) for using a recipe received from an external device may include an element for confirming a positive intent to use a recipe received from an external device and an element for confirming a negative intent.

[0326] A user may transmit searched recipe information to a cooking device (1) in advance using an external device (e.g., a user device). As another example, a user may transmit information about the type and weight of a cooking material (ob) to a cooking device (1) in advance using an external device (e.g., a user device).

[0327] The communication unit (300) can receive information on the food (ob) transmitted from an external device according to the user's intention (e.g., recipe information and / or information on the type and weight of the food (ob)).

[0328] The cooking appliance (1) can receive information on the food (ob) received through the communication unit (300).

[0329] The control unit (200) can determine the set time (st) and set temperature (sp) based on information about the food (ob) obtained from an external device. To this end, the memory (202) can store a lookup table in which the set time (st) and set temperature (sp) are mapped according to the information about the food (ob).

[0330] The control unit (200) can determine the set time (st) and set temperature (sp) mapped to the information of the food (ob) based on the lookup table as the set time (st) and set temperature (sp) used in the eco mode.

[0331] As another example, information on a cooking material (ob) obtained from an external device may include recipe information, and the recipe information may include information on a set time (st) and a set temperature (sp).

[0332] The control unit (200) can control the cooking appliance (1) to start the eco mode including the set time (st) and the set temperature (sp) in response to receiving a user input for starting the eco mode after the set time (st) and the set temperature (sp) are determined (2450).

[0333] When information on the food (ob) is received from an external device, the cooking appliance (1) can provide a visual indication asking whether to start the eco mode, and the user can input a command to start the eco mode by selecting the start / select button (42a).

[0334] According to the present disclosure, the cooking appliance (1) can receive the set time (st) and the set temperature (sp) according to various methods.

[0335] According to the present disclosure, a cooking appliance (1) can perform cooking in eco mode based on a set time (st) and a set temperature (sp) selected according to various methods.

[0336] Fig. 16 illustrates an example of an interface provided by a cooking appliance (1) operating in eco mode according to one embodiment.

[0337] Referring to Fig. 16, the cooking appliance (1) can output a visual indication to keep the door (20) closed when cooking is in progress in eco mode.

[0338] The control unit (200) can control the output interface device (41) to provide an interface (U8) for keeping the door (20) closed based on the start of the eco mode.

[0339] The interface (U8) for keeping the door (20) closed may include a visual indication indicating that the eco mode is in progress, a visual indication indicating the purpose of keeping the door (20) closed, and / or a visual indication guiding to keep the door (20) closed.

[0340] According to the present disclosure, the user is guided not to open the door (20) while the eco mode is in progress, and the electric energy consumed by the cooking appliance (1) while the eco mode is in progress can be minimized.

[0341] A cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a main body (1h) having a chamber (50) formed therein; a heater (80) for heating air in the chamber (50); a fan (90) for circulating air in the chamber (50); a temperature sensor (101) for measuring the temperature of the chamber (50); A user interface device (40) for receiving a user input for selecting a cooking mode including an eco mode and a normal mode, and a control unit (200) for turning on the fan (90) based on the selection of the cooking mode and the start of cooking, turning on the heater (80) until the temperature of the chamber (50) reaches a set temperature (sp), controlling the heater (80) so that the temperature of the chamber (50) maintains the set temperature (sp) based on the temperature of the chamber (50) reaching the set temperature (sp), and turning off the fan (90) based on the cooking progress time reaching the set time (st); and based on the selection of the cooking mode as the eco mode, the control unit (200) can turn off the heater (80) based on the cooking progress time reaching a predetermined ratio (pd) of the set time (st).

[0342] In one embodiment, based on the cooking mode being selected as the general mode, the control unit (200) can turn off the heater (80) based on the cooking progress time reaching the set time (st).

[0343] In one embodiment, the cooking appliance (1) may further include a sensor (103) that detects a tray (55) configured to partition the chamber (50) into an upper chamber (L1) and a lower chamber (L2).

[0344] In one embodiment, the eco mode may be selectable only when the tray (55) is detected by the sensor (103).

[0345] In one embodiment, in response to the tray (55) being detected by the sensor (103), the user interface device (40) may be controlled to provide a first interface that guides selection of at least one of the upper chamber (L1) and the lower chamber (L2) as the cooking chamber (50), and in response to the upper chamber (L1) being selected, the user interface device (40) may be controlled to provide a second interface that guides selection of either the normal mode or the eco mode.

[0346] The control unit (200) determines the predetermined ratio (pd) as a first value based on the selection of the upper chamber (L1) and the selection of the cooking mode as the eco mode, and determines the predetermined ratio (pd) as a second value based on the selection of the lower chamber (L2) and the selection of the cooking mode as the eco mode, wherein the second value may be greater than the first value.

[0347] In one embodiment, the predetermined ratio (pd) may be 75% to 80%.

[0348] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) can determine the set time (st) and the set temperature (sp) based on information on the food (ob) input through the user interface device (40).

[0349] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) can input information about the food (ob) into an artificial intelligence model to determine the predetermined ratio (pd).

[0350] In one embodiment, the cooking appliance (1) may further include a sensor (105) configured to measure the degree of browning of the food (ob) placed in the chamber (50).

[0351] In one embodiment, based on the cooking mode being selected as the eco mode, the control unit (200) can turn off the heater (80) if the browning degree of the food (ob) measured by the sensor (105) exceeds a predetermined degree even if the cooking progress time does not reach the predetermined ratio (pd) of the set time (st).

[0352] In one embodiment, the cooking appliance (1) may further include a communication unit (300) configured to communicate with a probe device (2) inserted into the food (ob) and configured to measure the deep temperature of the food (ob).

[0353] In one embodiment, based on the fact that the cooking mode is selected as the eco mode, the control unit (200) can turn off the fan (90) if the deep temperature of the food (ob) measured by the probe device (2) exceeds a predetermined level even if the cooking progress time does not reach the set time (st).

[0354] In one embodiment, the control unit (200) may change the predetermined ratio (pd) based on the completion of a preheating operation that turns on the heater (80) before the eco mode is started.

[0355] A control method of a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: receiving a user input for selecting a cooking mode including an eco mode and a normal mode; turning on a fan (90) based on the selection of the cooking mode and the start of cooking, turning on a heater (80) until the temperature of a chamber (50) reaches the set temperature (sp); controlling the heater (80) so that the temperature of the chamber (50) maintains the set temperature (sp) based on the temperature of the chamber (50) reaching the set temperature (sp); turning off the fan based on the cooking progress time reaching the set time; and turning off the heater (80) based on the selection of the cooking mode as the eco mode and the cooking progress time reaching a predetermined percentage (pd) of the set time (st).

[0356] In one embodiment, the control method of the cooking appliance (1) may further include turning off the heater (80) based on the cooking mode being selected as the general mode and the cooking progress time reaching the set time (st).

[0357] In one embodiment, the eco mode may be selectable only when a tray (55) configured to partition the chamber (50) into an upper chamber (L1) and a lower chamber (L2) is detected.

[0358] In one embodiment, the control method of the cooking appliance (1) may further include providing a first interface that guides selection of at least one of the upper chamber (L1) and the lower chamber (L2) as a cooking chamber (50) in response to detection of a tray (55) configured to divide the chamber (50) into an upper chamber (L1) and a lower chamber (L2); and providing a second interface that guides selection of one of the normal mode and the eco mode in response to selection of the upper chamber (L1).

[0359] In one embodiment, the control method of the cooking appliance (1) further includes determining the predetermined ratio as a first value based on the upper chamber being selected and the cooking mode being selected as the eco mode; and determining the predetermined ratio as a second value based on the lower chamber being selected and the cooking mode being selected as the eco mode; wherein the second value may be greater than the first value.

[0360] In one embodiment, the predetermined ratio (pd) may be 75% to 80%.

[0361] In one embodiment, the control method of the cooking appliance (1) may further include determining the set time (st) and the set temperature (sp) based on information on the food (ob) obtained according to user input.

[0362] In one embodiment, the control method of the cooking appliance (1) may further include inputting information on the food (ob) obtained according to a user input into an artificial intelligence model to determine the predetermined ratio (pd).

[0363] In one embodiment, the control method of the cooking appliance (1) may further include turning off the heater (80) when the browning degree of the food (ob) placed in the chamber (50) exceeds a predetermined degree, even if the cooking progress time does not reach the predetermined ratio (pd) of the set time (st), based on the cooking mode being selected as the eco mode.

[0364] In one embodiment, the control method of the cooking appliance (1) may further include turning off the fan (90) when the core temperature of the food (ob) placed in the chamber (50) exceeds a predetermined level, even if the cooking progress time does not reach the set time (st), based on the cooking mode being selected as the eco mode.

[0365] In one embodiment, the control method of the cooking appliance (1) may further include changing the predetermined ratio (pd) based on the completion of a preheating operation for turning on the heater (80) before the eco mode is started.

[0366] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0367] Computer-readable storage media include all types of storage media that store instructions that can be deciphered by a computer. Examples include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disks, flash memory, and optical data storage devices.

[0368] Additionally, a computer-readable recording medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0369] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable recording medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated on a machine-readable recording medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0370] The disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the attached drawings as described above. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in forms other than the disclosed embodiments without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. A body having a chamber formed inside; A heater for heating the air in the chamber; A fan for circulating the air in the chamber; A temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the above chamber; A user interface device for receiving user input for selecting a cooking mode including an eco mode and a normal mode; and A control unit is included, which turns on the fan based on the selection of the cooking mode and the start of cooking, turns on the heater until the temperature of the chamber reaches the set temperature, controls the heater to maintain the temperature of the chamber at the set temperature based on the temperature of the chamber reaching the set temperature, and turns off the fan based on the cooking progress time reaching the set time; Based on the above cooking mode being selected as the eco mode, the control unit, A cooking appliance that turns off the heater based on the cooking time reaching a predetermined percentage of the set time.

2. In paragraph 1, Based on the above cooking mode being selected as the general mode, the control unit, A cooking appliance that turns off the heater based on the cooking time reaching the set time.

3. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a sensor for detecting a tray configured to divide the chamber into an upper chamber and a lower chamber; The above eco mode is a cooker that can be selected only when the tray is detected by the above sensor.

4. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a sensor for detecting a tray configured to divide the chamber into an upper chamber and a lower chamber; The above control unit, In response to the tray being detected by the sensor, control the user interface device to provide a first interface that guides selection of at least one of the upper chamber and the lower chamber as a cooking chamber; A cooking appliance controlling the user interface device to provide a second interface responsive to the selection of the upper chamber to select either the normal mode or the eco mode.

5. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a sensor for detecting a tray configured to divide the chamber into an upper chamber and a lower chamber; The above control unit, In response to the tray being detected by the sensor, controlling the user interface device to provide an interface that guides selection of at least one of the upper chamber and the lower chamber as a cooking chamber; The predetermined ratio is determined as a first value based on the selection of the upper chamber and the selection of the cooking mode as the eco mode, A cooking appliance wherein the predetermined ratio is determined as a second value based on the lower chamber being selected and the cooking mode being selected as the eco mode, wherein the second value is greater than the first value.

6. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance wherein the above-mentioned predetermined ratio is 75% to 80%.

7. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A cooking appliance that inputs information on the food inputted through the user interface device into an artificial intelligence model to determine the predetermined ratio.

8. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a sensor configured to measure the degree of browning of the food placed in the chamber; Based on the above cooking mode being selected as the eco mode, the control unit, A cooking appliance that turns off the heater when the browning degree of the food measured by the sensor exceeds a predetermined degree even if the cooking progress time does not reach the predetermined percentage of the set time.

9. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a communication unit communicating with a probe device inserted into a cooking material and configured to measure a core temperature of the cooking material; Based on the above cooking mode being selected as the eco mode, the control unit, A cooking appliance that turns off the fan when the core temperature of the food measured by the probe device exceeds a predetermined level even if the cooking progress time does not reach the set time.

10. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A cooking appliance that changes the predetermined ratio based on the completion of a preheating operation that turns on the heater before the eco mode starts.

11. Receive user input to select a cooking mode including eco mode and normal mode; Based on the above cooking mode being selected and cooking starting, the fan is turned on, the heater is turned on until the temperature of the chamber reaches the set temperature, based on the temperature of the chamber reaching the set temperature, the heater is controlled to maintain the temperature of the chamber at the set temperature, and based on the cooking progress time reaching the set time, the fan is turned off; A control method for a cooking appliance, comprising: turning off the heater based on the cooking mode being selected as the eco mode and the cooking progress time reaching a predetermined percentage of the set time; 12. In paragraph 11, A control method for a cooking appliance further comprising: turning off the heater based on the cooking mode being selected as the general mode and the cooking progress time reaching the set time; 13. In paragraph 11, A control method of a cooking appliance wherein the above eco mode is selectable only when a tray configured to divide the chamber into an upper chamber and a lower chamber is detected.

14. In paragraph 11, Providing a first interface for guiding selection of at least one of the upper chamber and the lower chamber as a cooking chamber in response to detection of a tray configured to partition the chamber into an upper chamber and a lower chamber; A method of controlling a cooking appliance, further comprising: providing a second interface for guiding selection of one of the normal mode and the eco mode in response to the selection of the upper chamber.

15. In paragraph 11, Providing an interface that guides selection of at least one of the upper chamber and the lower chamber as a cooking chamber in response to detection of a tray configured to partition the chamber into an upper chamber and a lower chamber; The predetermined ratio is determined as a first value based on the upper chamber being selected and the cooking mode being selected as the eco mode; A control method for a cooking appliance further comprising: determining the predetermined ratio as a second value based on the selection of the lower chamber and the selection of the cooking mode as the eco mode; wherein the second value is greater than the first value.

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