Cooking apparatus

Abstract

This cooking apparatus comprises: a cooktop including a plate and a heating unit provided below the plate; and a hood disposed below the cooktop and including a blowing fan. The cooktop comprises: a first suction port provided at an edge portion of the plate; and a second suction port provided at the edge portion of the plate and provided separately from the first suction port. The hood comprises: a first opening and closing device capable of opening a first flow path between the first suction port and the blowing fan to suction air through the first suction port while the blowing fan operates; and a second opening and closing device capable of opening a second flow path between the second suction port and the blowing fan to suction air through the second suction port while the blowing fan operates.

Description

cooking appliances

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cooking appliance including a hood.

[0002] A cooking appliance is a device designed to heat and cook food or other food items. It can provide various cooking-related functions, such as heating, defrosting, drying, and sterilizing the food. Cooking appliances may include cooktops, which use electricity or gas to heat cooking containers containing food.

[0003] A gas cooktop is a gas range that cooks food by turning a lever to ignite gas from a small generator and then burning it.

[0004] An electric cooktop is an induction cooktop that uses electricity to generate an electromagnetic field in an internal coil, and uses the laws of electromagnetic induction to induce eddy currents in a cooking vessel, generating heat and using that heat to cook food.

[0005] Cooktops can produce contaminants like oil mist, unburned gases, and odors during the cooking process. A hood is needed to exhaust the air containing these contaminants to the outside.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a cooking appliance having a hood that can be used efficiently.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a cooking appliance having a cooktop with improved usability.

[0008] 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 disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0009] A cooking appliance according to the invention comprises a cooktop including a plate and a heating element provided at a lower portion of the plate, and a hood disposed below the cooktop and including a blower fan. The cooktop includes a first suction port provided at a rim of the plate and a second suction port provided at a rim of the plate but separately provided from the first suction port. The hood includes a first opening / closing device capable of opening a first passage between the first suction port and the blower fan so as to suck air through the first suction port while the blower fan operates, and a second opening / closing device capable of opening a second passage between the second suction port and the blower fan so as to suck air through the second suction port while the blower fan operates.

[0010] A cooking appliance according to the invention comprises a cooktop including a plate and a heating element provided at a lower portion of the plate, and a hood disposed below the cooktop. The cooktop comprises a first suction port provided at a rim portion of the plate and a second suction port provided at a rim portion of the plate but separate from the first suction port. The hood comprises a first blower fan operable to draw air through the first suction port, and a second blower fan operable to draw air through the second suction port.

[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates the lower portion of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates the interior of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 4 is an exploded view showing the internal configuration of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 6 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a first position of the cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 7 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned in a second position of the cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 8 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a first position of the cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 9 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned in a second position of the cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 10 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a first position of the cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 11 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned in a second position of the cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 12 schematically illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a first position and a second position of the cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 13 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a first position of the cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 14 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned in a second position of the cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 15 illustrates a closed state of a first opening / closing device and a second opening / closing device of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 16 illustrates an open state of a first opening / closing device of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 17 illustrates an open state of a second opening / closing device of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 18 illustrates a state in which the first opening / closing device and the second opening / closing device of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure are opened.

[0029] FIG. 19 is a control block diagram of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 20 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a method for controlling a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 21 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a first position of the cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 22 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned in a second position of the cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 23 schematically illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned in a first position and a second position of the cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 24 schematically illustrates the interior of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 25 schematically illustrates the interior of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 26 is a control block diagram of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 27 illustrates a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 28 illustrates a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0040] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0041] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0042] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0043] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0044] The terms "part," "module," and "member" may be implemented in hardware or software. Depending on the embodiments, multiple "parts," "modules," or "members" may be implemented as a single component, or a single "part," "module," or "member" may include multiple components.

[0045] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0046] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0047] The terms "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0052] FIG. 1 illustrates a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a lower portion of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates the interior of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of the internal configuration of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] The cooking appliance (1) may include a cooktop (10). The cooktop (10) may be provided to cook food. The cooktop (10) may be provided to heat food.

[0054] The cooktop (10) may include a plate (11) on which a cooking vessel (90, see FIG. 6) may be placed. For example, the plate (11) may have a generally flat shape. For example, the plate (11) may include tempered glass such as ceramic glass.

[0055] The cooktop (10) may include a suction port (12). The suction port (12) may be formed in the plate (11). The suction port (12) may be provided to penetrate the plate (11). For example, the suction port (12) may be formed in at least one edge of the plate (11). The suction port (12) may suck in air around the cooktop (10). The suction port (12) may suck in air containing contaminants generated during the cooking process. Here, the contaminants may include harmful gases generated during cooking, combustion gases, fine dust, oil mist, heat, and / or odors.

[0056] For example, the suction port (12) of the cooking appliance (1) may include a first suction port (12a) and a second suction port (12b). The second suction port (12b) may be provided at the edge of the plate (11), but may be provided separately from the first suction port (12a). For example, the first suction port (12a) may be provided at the left edge of the plate (11), and the second suction port (12b) may be provided at the right edge of the plate (11).

[0057] A cooking device (1) according to the invention can use the central portion of the plate (11) as a cooking area in which a cooking vessel (90) can be heated, as the suction port (12) is formed on the edge of the plate (11). For example, the cooking device (1) can be configured to heat a cooking vessel (90) regardless of where the cooking vessel (90) is placed between the first suction port (12a) and the second suction port (12b).

[0058] The cooktop (10) may include a user interface (14) provided on the plate (11). The user interface (14) may be provided to receive commands from a user. The user interface (14) may be provided to display various information of the cooking appliance (1). The user interface (14) may be provided as an area through which at least a portion of the display assembly (15) described below is transparent and displayed to the user.

[0059] The cooktop (10) may include a case (13). The case (13) may be provided below the plate (11). The case (13) may be coupled to the lower part of the plate (11).

[0060] The case (13) may include a shape with a substantially open upper portion. For example, the case (13) may include a bottom portion (13a) and a side portion (13b) extending upward from the bottom portion (13a).

[0061] The case (13) may be provided to accommodate various components constituting the cooktop (10). The case (13) may include an internal space (13c) for accommodating various components. The case (13) may accommodate electrical components. The case (13) may accommodate a display assembly (15) to be described later. The case (13) may accommodate a heating unit (16) to be described later. The case (13) may accommodate a printed circuit board assembly (17) to be described later. The case (13) may include a cooling fan (18) to be described later.

[0062] The cooktop (10) may include a display assembly (15). The display assembly (15) may be configured to implement a user interface (14). The display assembly (15) may be arranged to correspond to the user interface (14). For example, the display assembly (15) may be configured as a printed board assembly (PBA) including a display panel, a switching element, an integrated circuit element, etc., and a printed circuit board (PCB) on which these are installed.

[0063] The cooktop (10) may include a heating element (16). The heating element (16) may be arranged to heat the plate (11). For example, the heating element (16) may include a coil (16a). A current whose magnitude changes over time may be applied to the coil (16a). As the current is applied to the coil (16a), a magnetic field may be formed around the coil (16a). As the current applied to the coil changes, the magnetic field formed around the coil (16a) may also change. An eddy current may flow according to the change in the magnetic field on the surface of the cooking vessel (90) in contact with the plate (11), thereby heating the cooking vessel (90).

[0064] In the drawing, the cooktop (10) is depicted as an induction electric cooktop, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The type of cooktop (10) is not limited as long as the cooktop (10) can heat the cooking vessel (90). For example, the cooktop (10) may be provided as a gas range, highlighter, hybrid, or oven.

[0065] The cooktop (10) may include a printed board assembly (PBA) (17). The printed board assembly (17) may be provided to supply driving current to the heating unit (16). The printed board assembly (17) may be provided to implement a circuit for the operation of the heating unit (16). The printed board assembly (17) may include various components and / or circuits for supplying driving current to the heating unit (16).

[0066] The cooktop (10) may include a cooling fan (18). The cooling fan (18) may be provided for heat dissipation inside the case (10). The cooling fan (18) may blow outside air to lower the temperature of the printed circuit board assembly (17) and / or the display assembly (15). The cooling fan (18) may draw in outside air. The cooling fan (18) may exhaust air flowing inside the case (13). The outside air introduced into the case (13) through the cooling fan (18) may cool the inside of the case (13) and then be exhausted to the outside of the case (13).

[0067] For example, a suction hole (19a) and a discharge hole (19b) may be formed in the case (13). For example, the suction hole (19a) may be formed in the bottom portion (13a) of the case (13). For example, the discharge hole (19b) may be formed in the side portion (13b) of the case (13). External air may be introduced into the case (13) through the suction hole (19a) by the blowing force of the cooling fan (18) and then discharged to the outside of the case (13) through the discharge hole (19b). In the drawing, the suction hole (19a) and the discharge hole (19b) are illustrated as being formed in multiple numbers, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. There is no limitation on the number of each of the suction holes (19a) and the discharge holes (19b).

[0068] The cooking device (1) may include a hood (20). The hood (20) may be provided to allow air introduced through the intake port (12) to flow. The hood (20) may be provided to guide the air introduced through the intake port (12). The hood (20) may be provided to exhaust or circulate the air introduced through the intake port (12). The hood (20) may exhaust the air introduced through the intake port (12) to the outside of a space (e.g., indoors) in which the cooking device (1) is installed. The hood (20) may recirculate the air introduced through the intake port (12) back into the space (e.g., indoors) in which the cooking device (1) is installed. In summary, the hood (20) may guide the air introduced through the intake port (12) to the outside or indoors. As will be described later, at least one filter (61 and / or 71) may be provided inside the hood (20), and air flowing through the hood (20) may be filtered by passing through at least one filter (61 and / or 71). Air passing through at least one filter (61 and / or 71) may be discharged to the outdoors or introduced into the indoors by the hood (20).

[0069] The hood (20) may be placed under the plate (11). The hood (20) may be placed under at least a portion of the cooktop (10). The hood (20) may be placed under the bottom portion (13a) of the case (13). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the cooktop (10) and the hood (20) may be formed integrally.

[0070] By placing the hood (20) under the cooktop (10), the upper space where the cooking device (1) is installed can be secured. The upper portion of the cooking device (1) is provided as an empty space, so that the cooking space is secured and the cooking environment can be improved.

[0071] The hood (20) may include a chamber housing (30). The chamber housing (30) may be positioned below the plate (11). The chamber housing (30) may be detachably coupled to at least a portion of the lower portion of the cooktop (10). For example, the chamber housing (30) may be detachably coupled to the bottom portion (13a) of the case (13).

[0072] The chamber housing (30) may be provided to receive air introduced through the intake port (12). The chamber housing (30) may be provided to form a chamber (31) through which air can flow. The chamber (31) may include a passage for guiding air into a space provided inside the chamber housing (30).

[0073] The cooking device (1) may include a connecting port (13d) for connecting the internal space (13c) of the case (13) and the chamber (31) of the chamber housing (30). The connecting port (13d) may be formed in the bottom portion (13a) of the case (13).

[0074] Various components may be placed in the chamber (31). For example, at least one filter (61 and / or 71) may be placed in the chamber (31). For example, a fan device (50) to be described later may be placed in the chamber (31).

[0075] The chamber housing (30) may be provided to connect the cooktop (10) and the duct (40). The chamber housing (30) may guide air sucked in through the intake port (12) to the duct (40). For example, the chamber housing (30) may include a chamber discharge port (35, see FIG. 4) through which air flows out from the chamber housing (30). The chamber discharge port (35) may be connected to the duct (40).

[0076] The hood (20) may include a duct (40). The duct (40) may receive air discharged from the chamber housing (30). The duct (40) may guide the air discharged from the chamber housing (30) to the outside or to a space in which the cooking device (1) is installed. For example, one end of the duct (40) may be connected to a chamber discharge port (35) of the chamber housing (30). For example, the other end of the duct (40) may be connected to the outdoors or indoors. Accordingly, the duct (40) may discharge air that is drawn in through the intake port (12) and then filtered through at least one filter (61 and / or 71) to the outdoors or recirculate it indoors.

[0077] Although the drawing depicts the chamber housing (30) and the duct (40) as separate components, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Depending on various factors such as the type of cooktop (10) and the installation space, the chamber housing (30) and the duct (40) may be provided as an integrated component.

[0078] The cooking appliance (1) may include a fan device (50). The fan device (50) may be disposed inside the hood (20). Although the drawing illustrates the fan device (50) as being housed in the chamber housing (30), the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the fan device (50) may be housed in the duct (40). For example, the fan device (50) may be provided as a component of the hood (20). For example, the fan device (50) may be positioned below the second suction port (12b).

[0079] The fan device (50) may include a blower fan (51). The blower fan (51) may be configured to force air flow. The blower fan (51) may generate suction force. Air may flow into the cooking appliance (1) through the suction port (12) by the suction force of the blower fan (51).

[0080] The fan device (50) may include a fan motor (53). The fan motor (53) may be arranged to drive a blower fan (51). The fan motor (53) may provide rotational force to the blower fan (51).

[0081] The fan device (50) may include a fan housing (52). The fan housing (52) may be provided to cover a blower fan (51) and a fan motor (53). The fan housing (52) may be provided to accommodate the blower fan (51) and the fan motor (53).

[0082] The cooking appliance (1) may include at least one filter (61 and / or 71).

[0083] The cooking device (1) may include an intake filter (61). The cooking device (1) may include an intake filter bracket (62) on which the intake filter (61) is mounted. The intake filter (61) may be arranged to filter air sucked through the intake (12). The intake filter (61) and the intake filter bracket (62) may be arranged in an internal space (13c) of the case (13).

[0084] For example, the intake filter (61) may be provided to correspond to the number of intake ports (12). The intake filter (61) may include a first intake filter (61a) for filtering foreign substances in air flowing in through the first intake port (12a), and a second intake filter (61b) for filtering foreign substances in air flowing in through the second intake port (12b). The first intake filter (61a) may be mounted on a first intake filter bracket (62a), and the second intake filter (61b) may be mounted on a second intake filter bracket (62b).

[0085] The cooking appliance (1) may include a fan filter (71). The cooking appliance (1) may include a fan filter bracket (72) on which the fan filter (71) is mounted. The fan filter (71) may be provided to filter air passing through the intake filter (61). The fan filter (71) may be disposed downstream of the intake filter (61) along the direction of air flow. The fan filter (71) and the fan filter bracket (72) may be disposed inside the hood (20). For example, the fan filter (71) and the fan filter bracket (72) may be disposed in the chamber (31). For example, the fan filter bracket (72) may be detachably coupled to the chamber housing (30). The fan filter (71) may be provided to filter foreign substances from air flowing into the blower fan (51).

[0086] For example, at least one of the intake filter (61) or the fan filter (62) may be a grease filter for removing oil particles contained in the air. For example, at least one of the intake filter (61) or the fan filter (62) may be a deodorizing filter for removing odor particles contained in the air.

[0087] The cooking device (1) may include a tray (80). The tray (80) may accommodate foreign substances such as powder, crumbs, and water generated during cooking. The tray (80) may be placed below the intake filter (61). The tray (80) may be placed in the internal space (13c) of the case (13). For example, the tray (80) may be placed inside the bottom portion (13a) of the case (13).

[0088] For example, the tray (80) may include a user-gripable handle (81). For example, the user may pull the tray (80) out of the case (13) or insert the tray (80) into the case (13) while holding the handle (81). For example, the handle (81) may have a shape that protrudes toward the suction port (12).

[0089] For example, the tray (80) may be provided to correspond to the number of suction ports (12). The tray (80) may include a first tray (80a) for receiving foreign substances introduced through the first suction port (12a), and a second tray (80b) for receiving foreign substances introduced through the second suction port (12b). The first tray (80a) may include a first handle (81a), and the second tray (80b) may include a second handle (81b).

[0090] Referring to FIG. 5, the cooking appliance (1) may include an opening / closing device (100) provided on a passage between the suction port (12) and the fan device (50). For example, the opening / closing device (100) may include a first opening / closing device (101) provided on a first passage (P1) between the first suction port (12a) and the fan device (50), and a second opening / closing device (102) provided on a second passage (P2) between the second suction port (12b) and the fan device (50).

[0091] The opening / closing device (100) can be configured to open / close a path through which air flowing into the internal space (13c) of the case (13) through the intake port (12) flows toward the fan device (50).

[0092] The first opening / closing device (101) may be configured to open / close the first flow path (P1) through which air flowing into the internal space (13c) of the case (13) through the first intake port (12a) flows toward the fan device (50). The first opening / closing device (101) may open the first flow path (P1) between the first intake port (12a) and the blower fan (51) so as to suck air through the first intake port (12a) while the blower fan (51) is operating.

[0093] The second opening / closing device (102) may be configured to open / close the second flow path (P2) through which air flowing into the internal space (13c) of the case (13) through the second intake port (12b) flows toward the fan device (50). The second opening / closing device (102) may open the second flow path (P2) between the second intake port (12b) and the blower fan (51) so as to suck air through the second intake port (12b) while the blower fan (51) is operating.

[0094] The opening / closing device (100) may be located in the internal space (13c) of the case (13). For example, the opening / closing device (100) may include a valve or a damper.

[0095] FIG. 6 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a first position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a second position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 6, when the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a first position adjacent to the first suction port (12a) of the cooking appliance (1), the cooking appliance (1) can be operated so that the first opening / closing device (101) opens the first flow path (P1) and the second opening / closing device (102) closes the second flow path (P2).

[0097] As the first flow path (P1) is opened and the second flow path (P2) is closed, while the fan device (50) is operating, the air containing contaminants can be mostly sucked in through the first intake port (12a) adjacent to the first location where the cooking vessel (90) is located.

[0098] Air can be introduced into the cooktop (10) through the first intake port (12a). The air introduced through the first intake port (12a) can pass through the first intake port filter (61a). The air that has passed through the first intake port filter (61a) can flow from the internal space (13c) of the case (13) to the chamber housing (30) through the connection port (13d). The air introduced into the chamber housing (30) can pass through the fan filter (71). The air that has passed through the fan filter (71) can flow to the intake side (50a) of the fan device (50). The air introduced into the fan device (50) can be discharged through the discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50). The discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50) can be opened toward the chamber discharge port (35) of the chamber housing (30). Air discharged from the fan device (50) can be discharged from the chamber housing (30) through the chamber discharge port (35). The air discharged from the chamber housing (30) can flow into a duct (40, see FIGS. 1 to 3). The air introduced into the duct (40) can be discharged outdoors or circulated indoors.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 7, when the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a second position adjacent to the second suction port (12b) of the cooking appliance (1), the cooking appliance (1) can operate such that the second opening / closing device (102) opens the second flow path (P2) and the first opening / closing device (101) closes the first flow path (P1).

[0100] As the second flow path (P2) is opened and the first flow path (P1) is closed, while the fan device (50) is operating, the air containing contaminants can be mostly sucked in through the second intake port (12b) adjacent to the second location where the cooking vessel (90) is located.

[0101] Air can be drawn into the cooktop (10) through the second intake port (12b). The air drawn in through the second intake port (12b) can pass through the second intake port filter (61b). The air that has passed through the second intake port filter (61b) can flow from the internal space (13c) of the case (13) to the chamber housing (30) through the connection port (13d). The air drawn into the chamber housing (30) can pass through the fan filter (71). The air that has passed through the fan filter (71) can flow to the intake side (50a) of the fan device (50). The air drawn into the fan device (50) can be discharged through the discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50). The discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50) can be opened toward the chamber discharge port (35) of the chamber housing (30). Air discharged from the fan device (50) can be discharged from the chamber housing (30) through the chamber discharge port (35). The air discharged from the chamber housing (30) can flow into a duct (40, see FIGS. 1 to 3). The air introduced into the duct (40) can be discharged outdoors or circulated indoors.

[0102] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cooking appliance (1) can selectively open a first passage (P1) and a second passage (P2) based on the position of a cooking container (90) through an opening / closing device (100), and can suck in air containing contaminants through an intake port (12) adjacent to the cooking container (90), so that efficient use can be possible.

[0103] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cooking appliance (1) has a suction port (12) for sucking in air containing contaminants located at the edge of the cooktop (10), so that the entire central portion of the cooktop (10) can be used as a cooking area in which a cooking vessel (90) can be heated. Accordingly, the cooking vessel (90) can be heated regardless of where the cooking vessel (90) is placed between the first suction port (12a) and the second suction port (12b), so that usability can be improved.

[0104] FIG. 8 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a first position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a second position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0105] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, unlike the cooking appliance (1) illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 in which the fan device (50) is positioned below the second suction port (12b), the cooking appliance (2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may have the fan device (50) positioned below the first suction port (12a).

[0106] Referring to FIG. 8, when the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a first position adjacent to the first suction port (12a) of the cooking appliance (2), the cooking appliance (2) can be operated so that the first opening / closing device (101) opens the first flow path (P1) and the second opening / closing device (102) closes the second flow path (P2).

[0107] As the first flow path (P1) is opened and the second flow path (P2) is closed, while the fan device (50) is operating, the air containing contaminants can be mostly sucked in through the first intake port (12a) adjacent to the first location where the cooking vessel (90) is located.

[0108] Air can be introduced into the cooktop (10) through the first intake port (12a). The air introduced through the first intake port (12a) can pass through the first intake port filter (61a). The air that has passed through the first intake port filter (61a) can flow from the internal space (13c) of the case (13) to the chamber housing (30) through the connection port (13d). The air introduced into the chamber housing (30) can pass through the fan filter (71). The air that has passed through the fan filter (71) can flow to the intake side (50a) of the fan device (50). The air introduced into the fan device (50) can be discharged through the discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50). The discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50) can be opened toward the chamber discharge port (35) of the chamber housing (30). Air discharged from the fan device (50) can be discharged from the chamber housing (30) through the chamber discharge port (35). The air discharged from the chamber housing (30) can flow into the duct (40). The air introduced into the duct (40) can be discharged outdoors or circulated indoors.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 9, when the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a second position adjacent to the second suction port (12b) of the cooking appliance (2), the cooking appliance (2) can operate such that the second opening / closing device (102) opens the second flow path (P2) and the first opening / closing device (101) closes the first flow path (P1).

[0110] As the second flow path (P2) is opened and the first flow path (P1) is closed, while the fan device (50) is operating, the air containing contaminants can be mostly sucked in through the second intake port (12b) adjacent to the second location where the cooking vessel (90) is located.

[0111] Air can be drawn into the cooktop (10) through the second intake port (12b). The air drawn in through the second intake port (12b) can pass through the second intake port filter (61b). The air that has passed through the second intake port filter (61b) can flow from the internal space (13c) of the case (13) to the chamber housing (30) through the connection port (13d). The air drawn into the chamber housing (30) can pass through the fan filter (71). The air that has passed through the fan filter (71) can flow to the intake side (50a) of the fan device (50). The air drawn into the fan device (50) can be discharged through the discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50). The discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50) can be opened toward the chamber discharge port (35) of the chamber housing (30). Air discharged from the fan device (50) can be discharged from the chamber housing (30) through the chamber discharge port (35). The air discharged from the chamber housing (30) can flow into the duct (40). The air introduced into the duct (40) can be discharged outdoors or circulated indoors.

[0112] FIG. 10 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a first position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a second position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, unlike the cooking appliance (1) illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 in which the fan device (50) is positioned below the second suction port (12b) and the cooking appliance (2) illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9 in which the fan device (50) is positioned below the first suction port (12a), the cooking appliance (3) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may have the fan device (50) positioned below the connection port (13d). For example, the blower fan (51) may be positioned below between the first suction port (12a) and the second suction port (12b).

[0114] A cooking appliance (3) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a fan filter (371) provided between a connection port (13d) and a fan device (50). The fan filter (371) may be arranged to filter foreign substances before air passing through the connection port (13d) flows into the fan device (50). The fan filter (371) may be arranged such that one side faces the connection port (13d) and the other side opposite to the one side faces the suction side (50a) of the fan device (50). The cooking appliance (3) may include a fan filter bracket (372) for mounting the fan filter (371).

[0115] Referring to FIG. 10, when the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a first position adjacent to the first suction port (12a) of the cooking appliance (3), the cooking appliance (3) can be operated so that the first opening / closing device (101) opens the first flow path (P1) and the second opening / closing device (102) closes the second flow path (P2).

[0116] As the first flow path (P1) is opened and the second flow path (P2) is closed, while the fan device (50) is operating, the air containing contaminants can be mostly sucked in through the first intake port (12a) adjacent to the first location where the cooking vessel (90) is located.

[0117] Air can be introduced into the cooktop (10) through the first intake port (12a). The air introduced through the first intake port (12a) can pass through the first intake port filter (61a). The air that has passed through the first intake port filter (61a) can flow from the internal space (13c) of the case (13) to the chamber housing (30) through the connection port (13d). The air introduced into the chamber housing (30) can pass through the fan filter (71). The air that has passed through the fan filter (71) can flow to the intake side (50a) of the fan device (50). The air introduced into the fan device (50) can be discharged through the discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50). The discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50) can be opened toward the chamber discharge port (35) of the chamber housing (30). Air discharged from the fan device (50) can be discharged from the chamber housing (30) through the chamber discharge port (35). The air discharged from the chamber housing (30) can flow into the duct (40). The air introduced into the duct (40) can be discharged outdoors or circulated indoors.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 11, when the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a second position adjacent to the second suction port (12b) of the cooking appliance (3), the cooking appliance (3) can be operated so that the second opening / closing device (102) opens the second flow path (P2) and the first opening / closing device (101) closes the first flow path (P1).

[0119] As the second flow path (P2) is opened and the first flow path (P1) is closed, while the fan device (50) is operating, the air containing contaminants can be mostly sucked in through the second intake port (12b) adjacent to the second location where the cooking vessel (90) is located.

[0120] Air can be drawn into the cooktop (10) through the second intake port (12b). The air drawn in through the second intake port (12b) can pass through the second intake port filter (61b). The air that has passed through the second intake port filter (61b) can flow from the internal space (13c) of the case (13) to the chamber housing (30) through the connection port (13d). The air drawn into the chamber housing (30) can pass through the fan filter (71). The air that has passed through the fan filter (71) can flow to the intake side (50a) of the fan device (50). The air drawn into the fan device (50) can be discharged through the discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50). The discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50) can be opened toward the chamber discharge port (35) of the chamber housing (30). Air discharged from the fan device (50) can be discharged from the chamber housing (30) through the chamber discharge port (35). The air discharged from the chamber housing (30) can flow into the duct (40). The air introduced into the duct (40) can be discharged outdoors or circulated indoors.

[0121] FIG. 12 schematically illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a first position and a second position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a first position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a second position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0122] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 14, a cooking appliance (4) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an opening / closing device (400) disposed adjacent to a suction side (50a) of a fan device (50). The opening / closing device (400) may be arranged to be rotatable with respect to a plate (11). The opening / closing device (400) may include a first opening (401), a second opening (402) positioned on one side of the first opening (401) in a circumferential direction of the opening / closing device (400), and a third opening (403) positioned on the other side opposite to one side of the first opening (401) in a circumferential direction of the opening / closing device (400). The second opening (402) and the third opening (403) may be arranged to face each other. The opening / closing device (400) may include a fourth opening (404) that opens toward the suction side (50a) of the fan device (50). The opening / closing device (400) may include a blocking portion (405) provided at a portion facing the first opening (401).

[0123] Referring to FIG. 12, when the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a first position adjacent to the first suction port (12a) of the cooking device (4) and a second position adjacent to the second suction port (12b), the cooking device (4) can be operated such that the second opening (402) of the opening / closing device (400) faces the first suction port (12a) and the third opening (403) of the opening / closing device (400) faces the second suction port (12b).

[0124] As the opening / closing device (400) operates so that the second opening (402) faces the first suction port (12a) and the third opening (403) faces the second suction port (12b), while the fan device (50) operates, air containing contaminants can be sucked in through the first suction port (12a) adjacent to the first location where the cooking vessel (90) is located and the second suction port (12b) adjacent to the second location.

[0125] Air can be introduced into the cooktop (10) through the first intake port (12a) and the second intake port (12b). Air introduced through the first intake port (12a) can pass through the second opening (402), and air introduced through the second intake port (12b) can pass through the third opening (403). Air that has passed through the second opening (402) and air that has passed through the third opening (403) can flow to the intake side (50a) of the fan device (50) through the fourth opening (404). Air introduced into the fan device (50) can be discharged from the fan device (50) and discharged from the chamber housing (30).

[0126] Referring to FIG. 13, when the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a first position adjacent to the first suction port (12a) of the cooking device (4), the cooking device (4) can be operated so that the first opening (401) of the opening / closing device (400) faces the first suction port (12a) and the blocking portion (405) of the opening / closing device (400) faces the second suction port (12b).

[0127] As the opening / closing device (400) operates so that the first opening (401) faces the first suction port (12a) and the blocking member (405) faces the second suction port (12b), while the fan device (50) operates, air containing contaminants can be sucked in through the first suction port (12a) adjacent to the first location where the cooking vessel (90) is located.

[0128] Air can be introduced into the cooktop (10) through the first intake port (12a). The air introduced through the first intake port (12a) can pass through the first opening (401). The air that has passed through the first opening (401) can flow to the intake side (50a) of the fan device (50) through the fourth opening (404). The air introduced into the fan device (50) can be discharged from the fan device (50) and discharged from the chamber housing (30).

[0129] Referring to FIG. 14, when the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a second position adjacent to the second suction port (12b) of the cooking device (4), the cooking device (4) can be operated so that the first opening (401) of the opening / closing device (400) faces the second suction port (12b) and the blocking portion (405) of the opening / closing device (400) faces the first suction port (12a).

[0130] As the opening / closing device (400) operates so that the first opening (401) faces the second suction port (12b) and the blocking member (405) faces the first suction port (12a), while the fan device (50) operates, air containing contaminants can be sucked in through the second suction port (12b) adjacent to the second location where the cooking vessel (90) is located.

[0131] Air can be drawn into the cooktop (10) through the second intake port (12b). The air drawn in through the second intake port (12b) can pass through the first opening (401). The air that has passed through the first opening (401) can flow to the intake side (50a) of the fan device (50) through the fourth opening (404). The air drawn into the fan device (50) can be discharged from the fan device (50) and discharged from the chamber housing (30).

[0132] FIG. 15 illustrates a state in which the first opening / closing device and the second opening / closing device of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure are closed. FIG. 16 illustrates a state in which the first opening / closing device of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is opened. FIG. 17 illustrates a state in which the second opening / closing device of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is opened. FIG. 18 illustrates a state in which the first opening / closing device and the second opening / closing device of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure are opened.

[0133] Referring to FIGS. 15 to 18, in a cooking device (5) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, unlike the cooking device (1) illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 in which the opening / closing device (100) is positioned adjacent to the connection port (13d), the opening / closing device (500) may be positioned adjacent to the suction port (12).

[0134] Referring to FIG. 15, an opening / closing device (500) of a cooking appliance (5) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first opening / closing device (501) provided adjacent to a first suction port (12a), and a second opening / closing device (502) provided adjacent to a second suction port (12b).

[0135] The first opening / closing device (501) can open / close the first suction port (12a). The first opening / closing device (501) can open / close the first flow path (P1). For example, the first opening / closing device (501) may be provided rotatably on the plate (11), but is not limited thereto and may also be provided slidably. The first opening / closing device (501) may be located at the first suction port (12a).

[0136] The second opening / closing device (502) can open / close the second suction port (12b). The second opening / closing device (502) can open / close the second flow path (P2). For example, the second opening / closing device (502) can be rotatably provided on the plate (11), but is not limited thereto and can also be slidably provided. The second opening / closing device (502) can be located at the second suction port (12b).

[0137] Referring to FIG. 16, when the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a first position adjacent to the first suction port (12a) of the cooking appliance (5), the cooking appliance (5) can be operated to open the first flow path (P1) as the first opening / closing device (501) opens the first suction port (12a), and to close the second flow path (P2) as the second opening / closing device (502) closes the second suction port (12b).

[0138] As the first flow path (P1) is opened and the second flow path (P2) is closed, while the fan device (50) is operating, the air containing contaminants can be mostly sucked in through the first intake port (12a) adjacent to the first location where the cooking vessel (90) is located.

[0139] Air can be introduced into the cooktop (10) through the first intake port (12a). The air introduced through the first intake port (12a) can pass through the first intake port filter (61a). The air that has passed through the first intake port filter (61a) can flow from the internal space (13c) of the case (13) to the chamber housing (30) through the connection port (13d). The air introduced into the chamber housing (30) can pass through the fan filter (71). The air that has passed through the fan filter (71) can flow to the intake side (50a) of the fan device (50). The air introduced into the fan device (50) can be discharged through the discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50). The discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50) can be opened toward the chamber discharge port (35) of the chamber housing (30). Air discharged from the fan device (50) can be discharged from the chamber housing (30) through the chamber discharge port (35). The air discharged from the chamber housing (30) can flow into the duct (40). The air introduced into the duct (40) can be discharged outdoors or circulated indoors.

[0140] Referring to FIG. 17, when the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a second position adjacent to the second suction port (12b) of the cooking appliance (5), the cooking appliance (5) can be operated to open the second flow path (P2) as the second opening / closing device (502) opens the second suction port (12b) and close the first flow path (P1) as the first opening / closing device (501) closes the first suction port (12a).

[0141] As the second flow path (P2) is opened and the first flow path (P1) is closed, while the fan device (50) is operating, the air containing contaminants can be mostly sucked in through the second intake port (12b) adjacent to the second location where the cooking vessel (90) is located.

[0142] Air can be drawn into the cooktop (10) through the second intake port (12b). The air drawn in through the second intake port (12b) can pass through the second intake port filter (61b). The air that has passed through the second intake port filter (61b) can flow from the internal space (13c) of the case (13) to the chamber housing (30) through the connection port (13d). The air drawn into the chamber housing (30) can pass through the fan filter (71). The air that has passed through the fan filter (71) can flow to the intake side (50a) of the fan device (50). The air drawn into the fan device (50) can be discharged through the discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50). The discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50) can be opened toward the chamber discharge port (35) of the chamber housing (30). Air discharged from the fan device (50) can be discharged from the chamber housing (30) through the chamber discharge port (35). The air discharged from the chamber housing (30) can flow into the duct (40). The air introduced into the duct (40) can be discharged outdoors or circulated indoors.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 18, when the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a first position adjacent to the first suction port (12a) of the cooking appliance (5) and a second position adjacent to the second suction port (12b), the cooking appliance (5) can be operated to open the first flow path (P1) as the first opening / closing device (501) opens the first suction port (12a) and to open the second flow path (P2) as the second opening / closing device (502) opens the second suction port (12b).

[0144] As both the first vortex (P1) and the second vortex (P2) are open, while the fan device (50) is operating, air containing contaminants can be sucked in through the first suction port (12a) adjacent to the first location where the cooking vessel (90) is located and the second suction port (12b) adjacent to the second location.

[0145] Air can be introduced into the cooktop (10) through the first intake port (12a) and the second intake port (12b). Air introduced through the first intake port (12a) can pass through the first intake port filter (61a), and air introduced through the second intake port (12b) can pass through the second intake port filter (61b). Air that has passed through the first intake port filter (61a) and air that has passed through the second intake port filter (61b) can flow from the internal space (13c) of the case (13) to the chamber housing (30) through the connection port (13d). Air introduced into the chamber housing (30) can pass through the fan filter (71). Air that has passed through the fan filter (71) can flow to the intake side (50a) of the fan device (50). Air drawn into the fan device (50) can be discharged through the discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50). The discharge side (50b) of the fan device (50) can be opened toward the chamber discharge port (35) of the chamber housing (30). The air discharged from the fan device (50) can be discharged from the chamber housing (30) through the chamber discharge port (35). The air discharged from the chamber housing (30) can flow into the duct (40). The air drawn into the duct (40) can be discharged outdoors or circulated indoors.

[0146] FIG. 19 is a control block diagram of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0147] Referring to FIG. 19, a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment may include a user interface (14), a fan motor (53) that provides driving force to a blower fan (51), a heating unit (16), a first opening / closing device (101), a second opening / closing device (102), a communication unit (99), and / or a control unit (98).

[0148] The user interface (14) can enable interaction between the user and the cooking device (1).

[0149] The cooking device (1) can process user input received through the input interface device (14b) or output information related to the cooking device (1) through the output interface device (14a).

[0150] For example, user input received through the input interface device (14b) can be transmitted to the control unit (98).

[0151] The fan motor (53) can provide driving force to the blower fan (51). The fan motor (53) can include a motor whose rotation speed can be controlled. For example, the fan motor (53) can be a BLDC motor. The control unit (98) can control the rotation speed of the blower fan (51) by controlling the fan motor (53).

[0152] The heating unit (16) may include various devices for heating a cooking vessel placed in the cooking area.

[0153] The heating element (16) may be provided at the bottom of the cooking area. For example, if a plurality of cooking areas are formed on the plate (11), the cooking appliance (1) may include heating elements (16) corresponding to the plurality of cooking areas.

[0154] The heating unit (16) may include, for example, a coil (16a) and a driving circuit for driving the coil (16a). The control unit (98) may operate the heating unit (16) by controlling the driving circuit. For example, the control unit (98) may control the driving circuit so that a driving current is applied to the coil (16a), thereby causing the heating unit (16) to perform a heating operation.

[0155] The control unit (98) can adjust the heating intensity of the heating unit (16) by controlling the driving circuit. For example, the control unit (98) can adjust the heating intensity of the heating unit (16) by controlling the driving circuit to adjust the intensity of the driving current applied to the coil (16a).

[0156] A driving circuit for driving a coil (16a) may include a current sensor (95) for detecting a current applied to the coil (16a). Current data collected by the current sensor (95) may be transmitted to a control unit (98).

[0157] The cooking device (1) may include a communication unit (99) for communicating with an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or other home appliance) via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0158] The communication unit (99) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0159] The communication unit (99) can transmit data to an external device or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication unit (99) can establish communication with a server, a user device, and / or other home appliances, and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0160] To this end, the communication unit (99) 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 (99) can include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with the external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These different types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0161] 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.

[0162] 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 (99). The mobile communication unit (99) transmits and receives a wireless signal with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0163] In one embodiment, the communication unit (99) 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).

[0164] The control unit (98) can process user input received from the input interface device (14b).

[0165] The control unit (98) can process data collected from various sensors (e.g., a current sensor (95) for measuring the current applied to the coil (16a)).

[0166] The control unit (98) can control various components of the cooking device (1) (e.g., user interface (14), fan motor (53), heating unit (16), communication unit (99)).

[0167] For example, the control unit (98) can operate the heating unit (16) in response to receiving a user input to start the heating operation of the heating unit (16) through the input interface device (14b).

[0168] As another example, the control unit (98) can adjust the heating intensity of the heating unit (16) in response to receiving a user input for adjusting the heating intensity of the heating unit (16) through the input interface device (14b).

[0169] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) can control the rotation speed of the blower fan (51) in response to receiving a user input for controlling the rotation speed of the blower fan (51) via the input interface device (14b).

[0170] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) may automatically control the rotation speed of the blower fan (51) based on processing data collected from various sensors (e.g., a current sensor (95) for measuring the current applied to the coil (16a)).

[0171] Controlling the blower fan (51) by the control unit (98) may include controlling the fan motor (53) by the control unit (98).

[0172] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) may automatically control the first switching device (101) and the second switching device (102) based on processing data collected from various sensors (e.g., a current sensor (95) for measuring the current applied to the coil (16a)).

[0173] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) may control the first opening / closing device (101) to open the first flow path (P1) based on determining that the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a first position closer to the first suction port (12a) than to the second suction port (12b).

[0174] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) may control the second opening / closing device (102) to open the second flow path (P2) based on determining that the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a second position closer to the second suction port (12b) than the first suction port (12a).

[0175] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) can control the first opening / closing device (101) and the second opening / closing device (102) to open the first flow path (P1) and the second flow path (P2) based on determining that the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at the first position and the second position, respectively.

[0176] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) can control the first opening / closing device (101) and the second opening / closing device (102) to open the first flow path (P1) and the second flow path (P2) based on determining that the area of ​​the cooking vessel (90) is larger than a preset area.

[0177] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) may control the first opening / closing device (101) and / or the second opening / closing device (102) to open the first flow path (P1) and / or the second flow path (P2) based on the fact that the heating unit (16) has started a heating operation. In one embodiment, the control unit (98) may control the first opening / closing device (101) and / or the second opening / closing device (102) to open the first flow path (P1) and / or the second flow path (P2) based on the fact that the blower fan (51) has started an operation. Conversely, the control unit (98) may control the first opening / closing device (101) and / or the second opening / closing device (102) to close the first flow path (P1) and / or the second flow path (P2) based on the fact that the operation of the blower fan (51) has ended.

[0178] The control unit (98) may include hardware such as a CPU, Micom, or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit (98) may include at least one memory (91) that stores data in the form of a program and an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the cooking device (1), and at least one processor (92) that performs the operations described above and operations to be described later using the data stored in the at least one memory (91). The memory (91) and the processor (92) may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor (92) may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory (91) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory (91) and the processor (92) may be implemented as a single chip.

[0179] At least one memory (91) can store an algorithm for automatically controlling the rotation speed of the blower fan (51). In addition, at least one memory (91) can also temporarily store at least one parameter (e.g., a reference value) for automatically controlling the rotation speed of the blower fan (51).

[0180] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) can determine whether a cooking vessel is placed in the cooking area based on current data collected by a current sensor (95) for detecting the current applied to the coil (16a).

[0181] For this purpose, the memory (91) can store an algorithm for detecting a cooking vessel (90). The algorithm for detecting a cooking vessel (90) can include an algorithm for determining whether a cooking vessel is placed in a cooking area based on current data collected by a current sensor (95) for detecting a current applied to a coil (16a).

[0182] The control unit (98) can apply a test current to the coil (16a) based on a user input received through the input interface device (14b), and can detect whether a cooking vessel (90) is placed in the cooking area by performing a container detection process before operating the cooking area.

[0183] Detecting whether a cooking vessel (90) is placed in the cooking area may include detecting whether a cooking vessel (90) suitable for the cooking appliance (1) is placed in the cooking area.

[0184] A cooking vessel (90) suitable for the cooking device (1) may include, for example, a cooking vessel (90) that can be used in an induction heating device.

[0185] The control unit (98) can operate the cooking area based on the detection that a cooking container (90) is placed in the cooking area.

[0186] The control unit (98) may be mounted on, for example, a printed circuit board assembly (17), but the location of the control unit (98) is not limited thereto.

[0187] The control unit (98) can be electrically connected to the user interface (14), the fan motor (53), the heating unit (16), and / or the communication unit (99).

[0188] The configurations illustrated in FIG. 19 are an example of the configuration of a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment, and the cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment may include some configurations in addition to the configurations illustrated in FIG. 19, and may not include some configurations among the configurations illustrated in FIG. 19.

[0189] For example, the cooking appliance (1) may further include a driving device for driving the first opening / closing device (101) and the second opening / closing device (102).

[0190] FIG. 20 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a method for controlling a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0191] Hereinafter, a control method of a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 20.

[0192] Referring to FIG. 20, the cooking device (1) may be turned on (1010). Once the cooking device (1) is turned on, it is strongly assumed that the user will begin cooking using the cooking device (1). The cooking device (1) may then begin heating operations.

[0193] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) can detect the position of the cooking vessel (90) as measured from the current sensor (95) based on the operation of the heating unit (16) to initiate a heating operation of the cooking appliance (1) (1020).

[0194] The control unit (98) can open the corresponding opening / closing device (100) to allow air to be sucked in through the suction port (12) adjacent to the cooking container (90) based on the position of the cooking container (90) measured by the current sensor (95) (1030).

[0195] The control unit (98) can operate the blower fan (51) at a predetermined rotation speed based on whether the opening / closing device (100) is opened (1040). At this time, the predetermined rotation speed is a rotation speed of the blower fan (51) that can provide only the minimum suction power that does not generate noise, and may be stored in advance in the memory (91). For example, the predetermined rotation speed may be predetermined as a rotation speed at which the air volume of the blower fan (51) can be set to approximately 250 cmh to 350 cmh. That is, the control unit (98) can operate the blower fan (51) at a minimum air volume based on whether the opening / closing device (100) is opened.

[0196] The control unit (98) can compare the area of ​​the cooking vessel (90) measured by the current sensor (95) with a reference area (1050).

[0197] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) may control the opening / closing device (100) to additionally open a closed suction port (12) spaced apart from the cooking vessel (90) based on the determination that the area of ​​the cooking vessel (90) measured by the current sensor (95) is greater than the reference area (1060).

[0198] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) may increase the rotation speed of the blower fan (51) based on additionally opening a closed intake port (12) spaced apart from the cooking vessel (90) (1070). Increasing the speed of the blower fan (51) may include increasing the rotation speed of the blower fan (51) by a predetermined amount. Increasing the rotation speed of the blower fan (51) may include increasing the air volume of the blower fan (51) by a predetermined amount.

[0199] The control unit (98) can determine to stop the heating unit (16) based on information measured from the current sensor (95) (1080).

[0200] The control unit (98) can close the opening / closing device (100) based on the fact that the operation of the heating unit (16) has stopped (1090).

[0201] The control unit (98) can compare the area of ​​the cooking vessel (90) measured by the current sensor (95) with the reference area based on the fact that the operation of the heating unit (16) has not stopped (1050).

[0202] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) can control to open only the suction port (12) adjacent to the cooking vessel (90) and keep the rotation speed of the blower fan (51) to a minimum based on the area of ​​the cooking vessel (90) measured by the current sensor (95) being smaller than the reference area.

[0203] With reference to FIGS. 19 and 20, the control method of the cooking device (1) illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 7 has been described, but is not limited thereto, and the control method illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 20 can also be applied to the cooking devices (2, 3, 4, 5) illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 18.

[0204] FIG. 21 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a first position of the cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 22 illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a second position of the cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 23 schematically illustrates the operation of a cooking appliance when a cooking vessel is positioned at a first position and a second position of the cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 24 schematically illustrates the interior of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 25 schematically illustrates the interior of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0205] Referring to FIGS. 21 to 23, a cooking device (6) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first fan device (650a) and a second fan device (650b), and the opening / closing device (100) of the cooking device (1) illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 may be omitted.

[0206] The first fan device (650a) may include a first blower fan (651a). The first blower fan (651a) may be configured to force air flow. The first blower fan (651a) may generate suction force. Air may flow into the cooking appliance (6) through the first suction port (12a) by the suction force of the first blower fan (651a).

[0207] The first fan device (650a) may include a first fan motor (653a). The first fan motor (653a) may be configured to drive a first blower fan (651a). The first fan motor (653a) may provide rotational force to the first blower fan (651a).

[0208] The first fan device (650a) may include a first fan housing (652a). The first fan housing (652a) may be configured to cover the first fan (651a) and the first fan motor (653a). The first fan housing (652a) may be configured to accommodate the first blower fan (651a) and the first fan motor (653a).

[0209] The second fan device (650b) may include a second blower fan (651b). The second blower fan (651b) may be configured to force air flow. The second blower fan (651b) may generate suction force. Air may flow into the cooking appliance (6) through the second suction port (12b) by the suction force of the second blower fan (651b).

[0210] The second fan device (650b) may include a second fan motor (653b). The second fan motor (653b) may be configured to drive a second blower fan (651b). The second fan motor (653b) may provide rotational force to the second blower fan (651b).

[0211] The second fan device (650b) may include a second fan housing (652b). The second fan housing (652b) may be configured to cover the second fan (651b) and the second fan motor (653b). The second fan housing (652b) may be configured to accommodate the second blower fan (651b) and the second fan motor (653b).

[0212] A cooking appliance (6) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided so as to be divided into a first flow path (P1) and a second flow path (P2). The cooking appliance (6) may include a flow path partitioning portion (613e) for dividing the first flow path (P1) and the second flow path (P2). A first fan device (650a) may be positioned on the first flow path (P1), and a second fan device (650b) may be positioned on the second flow path (P2). When the first fan device (650a) operates, an air flow occurs on the first flow path (P1), and no air flow occurs on the second flow path (P2). When the second fan device (650b) operates, an air flow does not occur on the first flow path (P1), and an air flow occurs on the second flow path (P2). The first fan device (650a) and the second fan device (650b) may be driven independently.

[0213] Referring to FIG. 21, when the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a first position adjacent to the first suction port (12a) of the cooking device (6), the cooking device (6) can operate the first fan device (650a) to draw in air through the first suction port (12a). While the first fan device (650a) is operating, air containing contaminants can be drawn in through the first suction port (12a) adjacent to the first position where the cooking vessel (90) is positioned.

[0214] Air can be introduced into the cooktop (10) through the first intake port (12a). The air introduced through the first intake port (12a) can flow along the first flow path (P1). The air passing through the first connection port (613da) can flow to the first intake side (650aa) of the first fan device (650a). The air introduced into the first fan device (650a) can be discharged from the first fan device (650a) and discharged from the chamber housing (630).

[0215] Referring to FIG. 22, when the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a second position adjacent to the second suction port (12b) of the cooking device (6), the cooking device (6) can operate the second fan device (650b) to draw air through the second suction port (12b). While the second fan device (650b) is operating, air containing contaminants can be drawn in through the second suction port (12b) adjacent to the second position where the cooking vessel (90) is positioned.

[0216] Air can be introduced into the cooktop (10) through the second intake port (12b). The air introduced through the second intake port (12b) can flow along the second flow path (P2). The air passing through the second connection port (613db) can flow to the second intake side (650ba) of the second fan device (650b). The air introduced into the second fan device (650b) can be discharged from the second fan device (650b) and discharged from the chamber housing (630).

[0217] Referring to FIG. 23, when the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a first position adjacent to the first suction port (12a) of the cooking device (6) and at a second position adjacent to the second suction port (12b), the cooking device (6) can operate the first fan device (650a) and the second fan device (650b) to draw air through the first suction port (12a) and the second suction port (12b). While the first fan device (650a) and the second fan device (650b) operate, air containing contaminants can be drawn in through the first suction port (12a) adjacent to the first position where the cooking vessel (90) is positioned and the second suction port (12b) adjacent to the second position.

[0218] Air can be introduced into the cooktop (10) through the first intake port (12a) and the second intake port (12b). Air introduced through the first intake port (12a) can flow along the first flow path (P1), and air introduced through the second intake port (12b) can flow along the second flow path (P2). Air passing through the first connection port (613da) can flow to the first suction side (650aa) of the first fan device (650a), and air passing through the second connection port (613db) can flow to the second suction side (650ba) of the second fan device (650b). Air drawn into the first fan device (650a) can be discharged from the first fan device (650a) and flow out from the chamber housing (630), and air drawn into the second fan device (650b) can be discharged from the second fan device (650b) and flow out from the chamber housing (630).

[0219] Referring to FIG. 24, the chamber housing (630) may include one chamber discharge port (635). The cooking appliance (6) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be arranged so that air discharged from the first fan device (650a) and air discharged from the second fan device (650b) are discharged through one chamber discharge port (635).

[0220] Referring to FIG. 25, a chamber housing (730) of a cooking appliance (7) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first chamber discharge portion (735a) for discharging air discharged from a first fan device (650a) and a second chamber discharge portion (735b) for discharging air discharged from a second fan device (650b). The cooking appliance (7) may include a flow path partition portion (713e) for dividing a first flow path (P1) and a second flow path (P2), and the flow path partition portion (713e) may include an extension partition portion (713e) for dividing the first chamber discharge portion (735a) and the second chamber discharge portion (735b).

[0221] FIG. 26 is a control block diagram of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0222] Referring to FIG. 26, a cooking appliance (6) according to one embodiment may include a user interface (14), a first fan motor (653a) that provides driving force to a first blower fan (651a), a second fan motor (653b) that provides driving force to a second blower fan (651b), a heating unit (16), a communication unit (99), and / or a control unit (98).

[0223] The user interface (14) can enable interaction between the user and the cooking device (6).

[0224] The cooking device (6) can process user input received through the input interface device (14b) or output information related to the cooking device (6) through the output interface device (14a).

[0225] For example, user input received through the input interface device (14b) can be transmitted to the control unit (98).

[0226] The first fan motor (653a) can provide driving force to the first blower fan (651a). The first fan motor (653a) can include a motor whose rotation speed can be controlled. For example, the first fan motor (653a) can be a BLDC motor. The control unit (98) can control the rotation speed of the first blower fan (651a) by controlling the first fan motor (653a).

[0227] The second fan motor (653b) can provide driving force to the second blower fan (651b). The second fan motor (653b) can include a motor whose rotation speed can be controlled. For example, the second fan motor (653b) can be a BLDC motor. The control unit (98) can control the rotation speed of the second blower fan (651b) by controlling the second fan motor (653b).

[0228] The heating unit (16) may include various devices for heating a cooking vessel placed in the cooking area.

[0229] The heating element (16) may be provided at the bottom of the cooking area. For example, if a plurality of cooking areas are formed on the plate (11), the cooking appliance (6) may include heating elements (16) corresponding to the plurality of cooking areas.

[0230] The heating unit (16) may include, for example, a coil (16a) and a driving circuit for driving the coil (16a). The control unit (98) may operate the heating unit (16) by controlling the driving circuit. For example, the control unit (98) may control the driving circuit so that a driving current is applied to the coil (16a), thereby causing the heating unit (16) to perform a heating operation.

[0231] The control unit (98) can adjust the heating intensity of the heating unit (16) by controlling the driving circuit. For example, the control unit (98) can adjust the heating intensity of the heating unit (16) by controlling the driving circuit to adjust the intensity of the driving current applied to the coil (16a).

[0232] A driving circuit for driving a coil (16a) may include a current sensor (95) for detecting a current applied to the coil (16a). Current data collected by the current sensor (95) may be transmitted to a control unit (98).

[0233] The cooking device (6) may include a communication unit (99) for communicating with an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or other home appliance) via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0234] The communication unit (99) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0235] The communication unit (99) can transmit data to an external device or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication unit (99) can establish communication with a server, a user device, and / or other home appliances, and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0236] To this end, the communication unit (99) 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 (99) can include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with the external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These different types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0237] 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.

[0238] 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 (99). The mobile communication unit (99) transmits and receives a wireless signal with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0239] In one embodiment, the communication unit (99) can communicate with external devices such as a server, user devices, 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 (6), other home appliances, and / or user devices are connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The cooking appliance (6), other home appliances, and / or user devices can be connected to the server via the wide area network (WAN).

[0240] The control unit (98) can process user input received from the input interface device (14b).

[0241] The control unit (98) can process data collected from various sensors (e.g., a current sensor (95) for measuring the current applied to the coil (16a)).

[0242] The control unit (98) can control various components of the cooking device (6) (e.g., user interface (14), first fan motor (653a), second fan motor (653b), heating unit (16), communication unit (99)).

[0243] For example, the control unit (98) can operate the heating unit (16) in response to receiving a user input to start the heating operation of the heating unit (16) through the input interface device (14b).

[0244] As another example, the control unit (98) can adjust the heating intensity of the heating unit (16) in response to receiving a user input for adjusting the heating intensity of the heating unit (16) through the input interface device (14b).

[0245] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) can control the rotation speed of the first blower fan (651a) in response to receiving a user input for controlling the rotation speed of the first blower fan (651a) through the input interface device (14b), and can control the rotation speed of the second blower fan (651b) in response to receiving a user input for controlling the rotation speed of the second blower fan (651b).

[0246] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) may automatically control the rotation speed of the blower fan (51) based on processing data collected from various sensors (e.g., a current sensor (95) for measuring the current applied to the coil (16a)).

[0247] Controlling the first blower fan (651a) and the second blower fan (651b) by the control unit (98) may include controlling the first fan motor (653a) and the second fan motor (653b).

[0248] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) may control the first blower fan (651a) to operate based on determining that the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a first position closer to the first suction port (12a) than to the second suction port (12b).

[0249] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) may control the second blower fan (651b) to operate based on determining that the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at a second location closer to the second suction port (12b) than the first suction port (12a).

[0250] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) can control the operation of the first blower fan (651a) and the second blower fan (651b) based on the determination that the cooking vessel (90) is positioned at the first position and the second position, respectively.

[0251] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) can control the first fan motor (653a) to suck air through the first intake port (12a) and the second fan motor (653b) to suck air through the second intake port (12b) based on the heating unit (16) starting the heating operation. The control unit (98) can independently control the first fan motor (653a) and the second fan motor (653b).

[0252] The control unit (98) may include hardware such as a CPU, Micom, or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit (98) may include at least one memory (91) that stores data in the form of a program and an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the cooking device (6), and at least one processor (92) that performs the operations described above and operations to be described below using the data stored in the at least one memory (91). The memory (91) and the processor (92) may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor (92) may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory (91) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory (91) and the processor (92) may be implemented as a single chip.

[0253] At least one memory (91) can store an algorithm for automatically controlling the rotation speed of the blower fan (51). In addition, at least one memory (91) can also temporarily store at least one parameter (e.g., a reference value) for automatically controlling the rotation speed of the blower fan (51).

[0254] In one embodiment, the control unit (98) can determine whether a cooking vessel is placed in the cooking area based on current data collected by a current sensor (95) for detecting the current applied to the coil (16a).

[0255] For this purpose, the memory (91) can store an algorithm for detecting a cooking vessel (90). The algorithm for detecting a cooking vessel (90) can include an algorithm for determining whether a cooking vessel is placed in a cooking area based on current data collected by a current sensor (95) for detecting a current applied to a coil (16a).

[0256] The control unit (98) can apply a test current to the coil (16a) based on a user input received through the input interface device (14b), and can detect whether a cooking vessel (90) is placed in the cooking area by performing a container detection process before operating the cooking area.

[0257] Detecting whether a cooking vessel (90) is placed in the cooking area may include detecting whether a cooking vessel (90) suitable for the cooking appliance (6) is placed in the cooking area.

[0258] A cooking vessel (90) suitable for the cooking device (6) may include, for example, a cooking vessel (90) that can be used in an induction heating device.

[0259] The control unit (98) can operate the cooking area based on the detection that a cooking container (90) is placed in the cooking area.

[0260] The control unit (98) may be mounted on, for example, a printed circuit board assembly (17), but the location of the control unit (98) is not limited thereto.

[0261] The control unit (98) can be electrically connected to the user interface (14), the first fan motor (653a), the second fan motor (653b), the heating unit (16), and / or the communication unit (99).

[0262] The configurations illustrated in FIG. 26 are an example of the configuration of a cooking device (6) according to one embodiment, and the cooking device (6) according to one embodiment may include some configurations in addition to the configurations illustrated in FIG. 26, and may not include some configurations among the configurations illustrated in FIG. 26.

[0263] FIG. 27 illustrates a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0264] Referring to FIG. 27, a cooking device (8) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first suction port (812) located at the left edge portion, a second suction port (812b) located at the right edge portion, and a third suction port (812c) and a fourth suction port (812d) located at the upper edge portion, unlike the suction port (12) of the cooking device (1) illustrated in FIG. 1, which includes a first suction port (12a) and a second suction port (12b). Although FIG. 27 illustrates that four suction ports (812) are provided at the edge portion of the plate (811), the number of suction ports (812) is not limited thereto, and three or five or more may be provided.

[0265] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cooking device (8) has a plurality of suction ports (812) provided on the edge of a plate (811), so that the entire central portion of the plate (811) can be used as a cooking area in which a cooking vessel (90) can be heated, thereby improving usability.

[0266] FIG. 28 illustrates a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0267] Referring to FIG. 28, a cooking device (9) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first suction port (12a) located at the left edge and a second suction port (12b) located at the right edge, unlike the suction port (12) of the cooking device (1) illustrated in FIG. 1, which includes a first suction port (12a) located at the upper edge and a second suction port (912b) located at the lower edge. Accordingly, the user interface (914) may be located at the left edge or the right edge of the plate (911).

[0268] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cooking device (9) has a plurality of suction ports (912) provided on the edge of a plate (911), so that the entire central portion of the plate (911) can be used as a cooking area in which a cooking vessel (90) can be heated, thereby improving usability.

[0269] A cooking appliance according to the invention comprises a cooktop (10) including a plate (11) and a heating element (16) provided at a lower portion of the plate, and a hood (20) disposed below the cooktop and including a blower fan (51). The cooktop comprises a first suction port (12a) provided at a rim portion of the plate and a second suction port (12b) provided at a rim portion of the plate but separately provided from the first suction port. The hood comprises a first opening / closing device (101) capable of opening a first passage between the first suction port and the blower fan so as to suck air through the first suction port while the blower fan operates, and a second opening / closing device (102) capable of opening a second passage between the second suction port and the blower fan so as to suck air through the second suction port while the blower fan operates.

[0270] The above blower fan may be located below the first intake port.

[0271] The above blower fan may be located below the second intake port.

[0272] The above blower fan may be located below between the first suction port and the second suction port.

[0273] The first suction port may be provided at the left edge of the plate. The second suction port may be provided at the right edge of the plate.

[0274] The above cooktop may further include a third suction port provided on the upper edge of the plate.

[0275] The first suction port may be provided at the upper edge of the plate. The second suction port may be provided at the lower edge of the plate.

[0276] The first opening / closing device and the second opening / closing device may include a valve or a damper.

[0277] The cooking appliance may further include a control unit for controlling the first opening / closing device and the second opening / closing device. The control unit may control the first opening / closing device to open the first flow path based on determining that the cooking vessel is positioned at a first position closer to the first suction port than the second suction port, and may control the second opening / closing device to open the second flow path based on determining that the cooking vessel is positioned at a second position closer to the second suction port than the first suction port.

[0278] The control unit can control the first opening / closing device and the second opening / closing device to open the first flow path and the second flow path based on the determination that the cooking container is located at the first position and the second position, respectively.

[0279] The control unit can control the first opening / closing device and the second opening / closing device to open the first flow path and the second flow path based on determining that the area of ​​the cooking vessel is larger than a preset area.

[0280] The above cooking appliance may further include a first suction port filter for filtering foreign substances entering through the first suction port, and a second suction port filter for filtering foreign substances entering through the second suction port.

[0281] The above cooking appliance may further include a first tray for receiving foreign substances introduced through the first suction port, and a second tray for receiving foreign substances introduced through the second suction port.

[0282] The first opening / closing device may be located at the first suction port. The second opening / closing device may be located at the second suction port.

[0283] The hood may include a fan filter for filtering foreign substances from air flowing into the blower fan.

[0284] A cooking appliance according to the invention comprises a cooktop (10) including a plate (11) and a heating element (16) provided at a lower portion of the plate, and a hood (20) disposed below the cooktop. The cooktop comprises a first suction port (12a) provided at a rim portion of the plate and a second suction port (12b) provided at a rim portion of the plate but separately provided from the first suction port. The hood comprises a first blower fan (651a) operable to suck air through the first suction port, and a second blower fan (651b) operable to suck air through the second suction port.

[0285] The above first blower fan can be operated independently from the above second blower fan.

[0286] The cooking appliance may further include a control unit for controlling the first blower fan and the second blower fan. The control unit may control the first blower fan to operate based on a determination that the cooking vessel is positioned at a first position closer to the first suction port than the second suction port, and may control the second blower fan to operate based on a determination that the cooking vessel is positioned at a second position closer to the second suction port than the first suction port.

[0287] The control unit can control the operation of the first blower fan and the second blower fan based on the determination that the cooking container is positioned at the first position and the second position, respectively.

[0288] The hood may include a chamber exhaust port through which air is exhausted by the first blower fan and the second blower fan.

[0289] According to the invention, the cooking appliance can be used efficiently because the opening / closing device can selectively open the first and second passages based on the position of the cooking vessel, and air containing contaminants can be sucked in through the suction port adjacent to the cooking vessel.

[0290] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the cooking appliance can selectively control the first blower fan and the second blower fan based on the position of the cooking container, and can suck in air containing contaminants through the suction port adjacent to the cooking container, thereby enabling efficient use.

[0291] According to the concept of the present disclosure, since the cooking appliance has an intake for sucking in air containing contaminants located at the edge of the cooktop, the entire central portion of the cooktop can be used as a cooking area in which a cooking vessel can be heated, and therefore, the cooking vessel can be heated regardless of where it is placed between the first intake port and the second intake port, so usability can be improved.

[0292] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains from the description below.

[0293] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. A cooktop including a plate and a heating element provided at the bottom of the plate; and A hood is placed below the cooktop and includes a blower fan; The above cooktop includes a first suction port provided on the edge of the plate and a second suction port provided on the edge of the plate but separately from the first suction port. The above hood, A first opening / closing device capable of opening a first passage between the first suction port and the blower fan to suck air through the first suction port while the blower fan is operating; and A cooking appliance comprising a second opening / closing device capable of opening a second passage between the second suction port and the blower fan to suck air through the second suction port while the blower fan is operating.

2. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance wherein the above blower fan is located below the first suction port.

3. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance wherein the above blower fan is located below the second suction port.

4. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance wherein the blower fan is located below between the first suction port and the second suction port.

5. In paragraph 1, The above first suction port is provided on the left edge of the plate, A cooking appliance in which the second suction port is provided on the right edge of the plate.

6. In paragraph 5, A cooking appliance wherein the above cooktop further comprises a third suction port provided on the upper edge of the plate.

7. In paragraph 1, The above first suction port is provided on the upper edge of the plate, A cooking appliance in which the second suction port is provided on the lower edge of the plate.

8. In paragraph 1, A cooking appliance wherein the first opening / closing device and the second opening / closing device include a valve or a damper.

9. In paragraph 1, It further includes a control unit for controlling the first opening / closing device and the second opening / closing device; The above control unit, Controlling the first opening / closing device to open the first flow path based on determining that the cooking vessel is located at a first position closer to the first suction port than the second suction port; A cooking appliance that controls the second opening / closing device to open the second passage based on determining that the cooking container is located at a second position closer to the second suction port than the first suction port.

10. In paragraph 9, A cooking appliance in which the control unit controls the first opening / closing device and the second opening / closing device to open the first flow path and the second flow path based on the determination that the cooking container is located at the first position and the second position, respectively.

11. In paragraph 9, A cooking appliance in which the control unit controls the first opening / closing device and the second opening / closing device to open the first flow path and the second flow path based on determining that the area of ​​the cooking container is larger than a preset area.

12. In paragraph 1, A first suction port filter for filtering foreign substances flowing in through the first suction port; and A cooking appliance further comprising a second suction port filter for filtering foreign substances flowing in through the second suction port.

13. In paragraph 1, A first tray for receiving foreign substances flowing in through the first suction port; and A cooking appliance further comprising a second tray for receiving foreign substances introduced through the second suction port.

14. In paragraph 1, The above first opening / closing device is located in the first suction port, A cooking appliance wherein the second opening / closing device is located in the second suction port.

15. In paragraph 1, The above hood is a cooking appliance including a fan filter for filtering foreign substances from air flowing into the blower fan.

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