Knob assembly and cooking appliance comprising same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a knob assembly and a cooking appliance comprising same. The knob assembly of the present invention may comprise: a first knob body (120) that rotates around a driving shaft (71) protruding from an operation panel (30); and a second knob body (130) coupled to the first knob body (120). The second knob body (130) can define an operation space (121b) together with the first knob body (120). The knob assembly can further comprise a locking button (140) having an operation portion (143) exposed outside of the operation space (121b). The locking button (140) can include a safety pin (150) protruding in the axial direction of the driving shaft (71). The operation unit (143) can move along the operation space (121b), and the safety pin (150) can be interlocked with the operation unit (143) at a position outside the operation space (121b). The safety pin (150) can have a knob lock position that restricts axial-direction movement of the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) and a knob release position that permits the axial-direction movement of same.

Description

Knob assembly and cooking appliance including the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a knob assembly and a cooking appliance including the same.

[0002] Cooking appliances are used to prepare food by cooking ingredients. They can also be used to heat food to an appropriate temperature for consumption. These cooking appliances can be categorized by the type of heat source used, the type of fuel, and other factors. For example, cooking appliances can be classified as open or enclosed based on the space in which the food is placed. Enclosed cooking appliances include ovens and microwave ovens, while open cooking appliances include cooktops and griddles.

[0003] Closed cooking appliances seal the space containing food with a door, and cook food by heating the enclosed space. Open cooking appliances heat the food or containers in an open space, and cook food by heating the food or containers. Recently, hybrid cooking appliances that combine closed and open cooking appliances have also become popular. Hybrid cooking appliances combine multiple heat sources to cook a variety of ingredients and multiple dishes simultaneously.

[0004] Such a cooking appliance may be equipped with a knob for operation. The knob may be used to turn the cooking appliance on and off or to set a cooking mode. The knob may also be used to adjust the heating temperature.

[0005] For example, in the case of a gas range or electric range, the knob can be operated in a push-and-turn manner to operate the cooking appliance. The push-and-turn knob is designed so that the user can operate the cooking appliance only when the user presses and turns the knob. At this time, the user can adjust the heating temperature or select a cooking mode by adjusting the amount of rotation around the drive shaft while pressing the knob. This push-and-turn knob can operate the cooking appliance only when both steps are completed, thereby enhancing the safety of the cooking appliance.

[0006] However, because these push-and-turn knobs protrude outward, users can unintentionally rotate them while pressing them. For example, the user may unknowingly touch the knob and simultaneously press and rotate it. Furthermore, there are cases where infants operate the knob and use it to operate the appliance. Since such unintentional manipulation of the knob can lead to fire or burns, the safety of the appliance needs to be further improved.

[0007] The present invention is intended to solve the problems of the prior art as described above, and the purpose of the present invention is to prevent the knob assembly from operating when the lock button (safety button) provided on the knob assembly is not pressed.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to prevent the formation of sink marks or flow marks of resin due to a complex shape during the injection molding process of a knob body forming the skeleton of a knob assembly.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method in which a first knob body and a second knob body constituting a knob body are assembled together without being fastened with separate fasteners, but a high bonding force is maintained between the two knob bodies.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to make one end of the second knob body engage with the first knob body as a rotation point, so that the other end of the second knob body is rotatably coupled to the first knob body.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to have the second knob body be assembled on each side of the operating space across the operating space of the first knob body.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to enable the second knob body constituting the knob body to perform various functions, such as coupling with the driving shaft, forming an operating space for the lock button, and fixing the weight plate.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to enable a lock button to move between a first knob body and a weight plate in a spaced apart movement space, while ensuring sufficient movement space between the first knob body and the weight plate.

[0014] According to a feature of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose, the knob assembly of the present invention may include a first knob body that rotates around a driving shaft protruding from an operation panel, and a second knob body coupled to the first knob body. The second knob body may define an operating space together with the first knob body.

[0015] The above knob assembly may further include a lock button having an operating portion exposed to the outside of the operating space. The lock button may be provided with a safety pin protruding in the axial direction of the drive shaft. The operating portion moves along the operating space, and the safety pin may engage with the operating portion at a position outside the operating space. In this way, the operating portion and the safety pin are distributed along the axial direction, so that the internal space of the narrow knob body can be effectively utilized.

[0016] The safety pin may have a knob lock position that restricts axial movement of the first knob body and the second knob body, and a knob release position that allows axial movement. In this way, the lock button can prevent arbitrary manipulation or malfunction of the knob assembly.

[0017] The first knob body may include a knob ring defining a joint space within which the second knob body is arranged, and a grip portion protruding axially from the knob ring. The grip portion may define the operating space within, and may have an operating hole through which the operating portion is exposed.

[0018] The above first knob body may further include a knob top plate connecting the knob ring and the grip portion. The operating portion and the safety pin may be arranged on opposite sides with respect to the knob top plate.

[0019] The first knob body may include a hook into which one end of the second knob body is inserted and engaged, and a hook into which the other end of the second knob body is rotated and engaged.

[0020] With one end of the second knob body inserted into the hook as a rotation point, the other end of the second knob body can be rotated toward the hook to be caught and fixed on the hook.

[0021] The above-mentioned hanging jaw and the above-mentioned hanging hook may be respectively arranged on opposite sides with the above-mentioned operating space between them.

[0022] At least one of the surfaces of the second knob bodies facing each other or the edge of the entrance of the operating space may be provided with a guide surface. When the other end of the second knob body rotates and is caught on the hanging hook, the second knob body may be guided by the guide surface.

[0023] The first knob body may have a first engagement surface and a second engagement surface that are spaced apart from each other with the operating space therebetween.

[0024] The second knob body may include a fastening plate that is in close contact with the first coupling surface, and a body plate that is connected to the fastening plate and in close contact with the second coupling surface.

[0025] The above fastening plate can extend across the operating space from one end of the body plate.

[0026] The above fastening plates can be placed on each side of the driving shaft with the driving shaft interposed therebetween.

[0027] The second knob body may include a second-first fastening portion fastened to a first-first fastening portion provided on the first coupling surface, and a second-second fastening portion fastened to a first-second fastening portion provided on the second coupling surface.

[0028] A first separation distance may be formed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction between one end of the 1-1 fastening portion and one end of the 1-2 fastening portion facing each other. A second separation distance may be formed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction between the ends of the 2-1 fastening portion and the 2-2 fastening portion facing opposite each other. In this case, the second separation distance may be longer than the first separation distance.

[0029] The second knob body may be provided with a shaft coupling portion coupled to the driving shaft. The shaft coupling portion may be arranged to be aligned with the operating space along the axial direction.

[0030] The above lock button may have an inner surface facing the outer surface of the shaft coupling portion. The inner surface of the button may have a sunken shape along the direction of movement of the lock button so as to correspond to the outer surface of the shaft coupling portion.

[0031] The second knob body may further include a weight plate coupled in the axial direction.

[0032] The above lock button may include a button body disposed at a position outside the coupling space, and the operating part connected to the button body and moving along the operating space. The above lock button may further include the safety pin disposed in the button body.

[0033] The above button body can be placed between the weight plate and the first knob body.

[0034] A spacer may be protruded toward the opposite side of the first knob body or the weight plate. The spacer may be arranged to surround the periphery of the button body. The axial height of the spacer may be equal to or greater than the axial thickness of the button body.

[0035] The above weight plate can be arranged to overlap the second knob body and the lock button in the axial direction.

[0036] The weight plate may be formed with a pin passage hole for passing the safety pin in the axial direction. The safety pin may be moved between the knob-locked position and the knob-released position while passing through the pin passage hole.

[0037] The first knob body may have a first engagement surface and a second engagement surface that are spaced apart from each other with the operating space therebetween. The second knob body may be coupled to the first engagement surface or the second engagement surface by a fastener.

[0038] The second knob body may be arranged to span the operating space and include a fastening plate that is in close contact with the first coupling surface. The second knob body may include a body plate that is connected to the fastening plate and in close contact with the second coupling surface. The fastening member may pass through the body plate and be assembled to the second coupling surface.

[0039] The above lock button may be provided with at least one of a first button rib protruding toward the surface of the first knob body or a second button rib protruding toward the surface of the weight plate.

[0040] The above 1-1 fastening portion is configured as a hooking protrusion on the first coupling surface, and the 2-1 fastening portion can be fixed by engaging with the hooking protrusion. The above 1-2 fastening portion is configured as a hooking hook on the second coupling surface, and the above 2-2 fastening portion can be fixed by elastically deforming the hooking protrusion.

[0041] The knob assembly according to the present invention and the cooking appliance including the same as described above have the following effects.

[0042] In the present invention, the knob body (handle) is not pressed in the axial direction unless the lock button is pressed. The user must first press the lock button to press the knob body in the axial direction to operate the cooking appliance. That is, according to the present invention, the cooking appliance can be operated through a total of three operations consisting of operating the lock button (step 1), pressing the knob assembly (step 2), and rotating the knob assembly (step 3). In this way, the lock button can prevent arbitrary manipulation or malfunction of the knob assembly, and thus the stability of the cooking appliance can be improved.

[0043] In addition, in the present invention, the knob body constituting the knob assembly may include a first knob body defining an appearance and a second knob body disposed inside. At this time, the second knob body may be dedicated to various functions such as coupling with a driving shaft, forming an operating space for a lock button, and fixing a weight plate. In this way, the second knob body may be responsible for a complex structure for coupling with other parts. Through this, the structure of the first knob body can be implemented relatively simply, and during the injection molding process of the first knob body, the formation of sink marks or flow marks due to a complex shape can be prevented. Therefore, the aesthetics of the knob assembly can be improved.

[0044] Additionally, the lock button of the present invention comprises an operating portion and a safety pin. The operating portion is positioned in the operating space and moves along the operating space, and the safety pin is engaged with the operating portion at a location outside the operating space. In this way, the operating portion and the safety pin are distributed axially, allowing for effective utilization of the narrow internal space of the knob body.

[0045] Furthermore, in the present invention, the operating unit and the safety pin are positioned at a distance from each other in the axial direction, thereby enabling a relatively simple implementation of the peripheral structure of the operating unit and facilitating the enlargement of the operating unit. Consequently, the user can easily operate the operating unit, thereby enhancing usability.

[0046] Furthermore, in the present invention, the first knob body and the second knob body constituting the knob body can be assembled to each other via fastening members. At this time, the plurality of fastening members can firmly secure the two knob bodies at multiple points through a hooking structure. This enables the two knob bodies to be firmly secured together without the need for separate fasteners such as screws, thereby reducing the number of parts and labor, and also reducing the weight of the knob assembly.

[0047] In particular, a plurality of fasteners may be distributed and arranged in a plurality of joint areas formed between the two knob bodies. This not only allows for a more robust joint between the two knob bodies, but also increases the durability of the knob assembly by increasing the joint area between the two knob bodies together with the adhesive.

[0048] In addition, in the present invention, one end of the second knob body can be rotatably coupled to the first knob body with the state in which it is engaged with the first knob body as a rotation point. In this way, the first fastening portion between the first knob body and the second knob body, which serves as a rotation point, can be strongly fixed through a hooking structure without an elastically deformable structure. Accordingly, a high coupling force can be maintained between the first knob body and the second knob body.

[0049] In addition, in the present invention, since one end of the second knob body is rotatably coupled to the first knob body with the other end of the second knob body being engaged with the first knob body as a rotation point, the coupling direction between the first knob body and the second knob body can be accurately set. In this way, the worker can easily recognize the coupling direction of the first knob body and the second knob body, and the assembly workability can be improved.

[0050] In addition, in the present invention, the second knob body can be assembled on both sides of the operating space, crossing the operating space of the first knob body. In this way, even if the joint area of ​​the two knob bodies is reduced due to the existence of the operating space, the two knob bodies can maintain a high joint strength through a plurality of fastening portions distributed over a wide area, thereby increasing the durability of the knob assembly.

[0051] In addition, in the present invention, the first fastening member can provide a simple hooking structure, and the second fastening member can naturally elastically deform and then restore itself during the process of joining the two knob bodies, thereby connecting the two knob bodies. Therefore, the worker only needs to assemble the two knob bodies together without any separate work or manipulation. Consequently, the assembly efficiency of the two knob bodies can be improved.

[0052] In addition, in the present invention, the lock button can be operated while being positioned between the weight plate and the knob body. At this time, a spacer may be protruded from the knob body toward the weight plate to secure a height of movement space for the lock button. This prevents the weight plate from being excessively pressed against the knob body, thereby preventing the lock button from being caught between the weight plate and the knob body. This has the effect of improving the operational reliability of the lock button and the quality of the knob assembly.

[0053] In addition, in the present invention, the lock button can be linearly moved between a knob-locked position where axial movement is interfered with and a knob-released position where axial movement is possible. At this time, the lock button directly interferes with the base of the knob assembly or the operating panel on which the knob assembly is mounted in the knob-locked position, thereby restricting axial movement. Therefore, a structure for restricting operation of the knob assembly can be implemented very simply, and the number of additional parts due to the lock button can be minimized.

[0054] Furthermore, the present invention includes a button holder that operates independently of the lock button, thereby eliminating the need for lock button operation (Step 1) depending on the rotational position of the button holder. Furthermore, conventional push-and-turn knob operation is possible without the user having to separately operate the lock button, depending on the rotational position of the button holder. Accordingly, the lock function can be flexibly set or released according to the user's convenience, ensuring both convenience and safety.

[0055] In particular, when the button holder of the present invention is rotated, the button holder (i) releases the lock function of the lock button so that the knob assembly can be operated without operating the lock button, and (ii) fixes the lock button at a specific position so that the lock button is not pressed arbitrarily. In this way, the button holder of the present invention can simultaneously implement two functions of releasing the lock function and fixing the lock button, thereby improving usability.

[0056] Furthermore, in the present invention, the operating portion of the lock button can move in a straight or curved path in the axial direction (first direction), which is the linear movement direction of the knob body, and in a direction different from the rotational direction of the knob body (second direction). Accordingly, the possibility of the knob assembly being operated arbitrarily due to user error or interference with objects surrounding the cooking appliance can be further reduced.

[0057] In addition, in the present invention, an avoidance portion is formed on the second knob body to provide a movement path for the lock button. The lock button can move in a certain direction along the movement path provided by the avoidance portion, thereby improving the operational reliability of the lock button.

[0058] Additionally, in the present invention, a plurality of ribs (body ribs and button ribs) may be provided between the knob body and the lock button. These plurality of ribs can reduce the contact area between the knob body and the lock button, thereby reducing the frictional force generated during the movement of the lock button. Accordingly, the present invention can achieve the effect of improving the operability of the lock button.

[0059] Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a cooking appliance to which a knob assembly according to the present invention is applied.

[0060] Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing the structure of an operation panel and a knob assembly constituting an example of the cooking appliance illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0061] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the components constituting one embodiment of the present invention in an exploded manner.

[0062] Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing the disassembled parts constituting one embodiment of the present invention from a different angle than Fig. 3.

[0063] Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing a first knob body constituting an example of a knob assembly according to the present invention, and a weight plate omitted.

[0064] Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing the lower structure, omitting the weight plate and button holder constituting one example of a knob assembly according to the present invention.

[0065] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII' of Fig. 6.

[0066] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII' of Figure 6.

[0067] Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing the first knob body and the second knob body constituting one embodiment of the present invention separated.

[0068] Figure 10 is an assembly flowchart sequentially showing the process of combining a first knob body and a second knob body constituting one embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing a first knob body and a lock button that constitute an embodiment of the present invention assembled together.

[0070] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII' of Fig. 2.

[0071] Fig. 13 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of the present invention in a first state (knob-locked state).

[0072] Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIV-XIV' of Fig. 13.

[0073] Fig. 15 is a perspective view showing an example of a knob assembly according to the present invention in a second state (knob-released state).

[0074] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVI-XVI' of Fig. 15.

[0075] Fig. 17 is a perspective view showing an example of a knob assembly according to the present invention in a third state (knob pressed state).

[0076] Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVIII-XVIII' of Fig. 17.

[0077] Fig. 19 is a perspective view showing an example of a knob assembly according to the present invention in a rotated state.

[0078] FIG. 20 and FIG. 21 are perspective views and bottom views, respectively, showing a lock button constituting an embodiment of the present invention being positioned in a knob lock position and a button holder being positioned in a button release position.

[0079] FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 are perspective views and bottom views, respectively, showing a lock button constituting an embodiment of the present invention being positioned in a knob-released position and a button holder being positioned in a button-released position.

[0080] FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 are perspective views and bottom views, respectively, showing a lock button constituting an embodiment of the present invention being positioned in a knob release position and a button holder being positioned in a button restraint position.

[0081] Fig. 26 is a bottom view showing a second knob body assembled to a first knob body constituting a knob assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Fig. 27 is a bottom view showing a second knob body assembled to a first knob body constituting a knob assembly according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] Fig. 28 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a knob assembly according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Fig. 29 is an exploded perspective view showing the components constituting the knob assembly according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Fig. 30 is a perspective view showing the disassembled parts of a knob assembly according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention from a different angle than Fig. 29.

[0086] Fig. 31 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXXI-XXXI' of Fig. 28.

[0087] Fig. 32 is a perspective view showing the structure of a lock button and a safety pin constituting a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Fig. 33 is a perspective view showing the structure of a lock button and a safety pin constituting a fourth embodiment of the present invention from a different angle than Fig. 32.

[0089] Fig. 34 is a perspective view showing the lock button and safety pin constituting the fourth embodiment of the present invention in an exploded state.

[0090] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When designating components in each drawing, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components will be given the same reference numerals, even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, if a detailed description of a related known structure or function is deemed to hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, such detailed description will be omitted.

[0091] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When designating components in each drawing, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components will be given the same reference numerals, even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, if a detailed description of a related known structure or function is deemed to hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, such detailed description will be omitted.

[0092] The present invention relates to a knob assembly (100) and a cooking appliance including the same, wherein a cooktop portion (20) including a plurality of heating devices (28) may be provided on the upper portion of the cooking appliance. The heating devices (28) may be a gas heating device (28) that uses gas as an energy source, an electric cooktop, or an induction device. In Fig. 1, among the heating devices (28) on the cooktop portion (20), a gas heating device (28) is illustrated as an example. As shown in Fig. 1, the heating device (28) may be arranged to be exposed on the upper portion of the cooking appliance. As another example, the heating devices (28) may be arranged inside the cooking appliance, or may be arranged respectively inside and outside the cooking appliance.

[0093] The above knob assembly (100) is used to operate the heating device (28). A user can operate the knob assembly (100) to turn the heating device (28) on / off. A user can also operate the knob assembly (100) to adjust the amount of heat provided by the heating device (28). Alternatively, a user can operate the oven section (40, 50) or select a cooking mode of the cooking appliance by operating the knob assembly (100).

[0094] The user can control the heating device (28) by pressing and rotating the knob assembly (100). At this time, as shown in FIG. 2, in order to prevent the knob assembly (100) from being arbitrarily manipulated due to a user's mistake or interference with surrounding objects, a lock button (140) is provided in the present invention. Depending on the position of the lock button (140), the pushing operation of the knob assembly (100) can be selectively enabled. In addition, a button holder (170) is provided to release the function of the lock button (140) or to fix the lock button (140) to a specific position. Hereinafter, the knob assembly (100) will be described focusing on the lock button (140), the button holder (170), and the malfunction prevention structure.

[0095] In this embodiment, the lock button (140) can have a first button position and a second button position through linear movement. The button holder (170) can have a first holder position and a second holder position through rotation. FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate the lock button (140) at the first button position, and FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate the lock button (140) at the second button position. FIG. 20 illustrates the button holder (170) at the first holder position, and FIG. 22 illustrates the button holder (170) at the second holder position. The operations of the lock button (140) and the button holder (170) will be described in detail below.

[0096] Looking at the structure of the above cooking appliance, the exterior of the cooking appliance is formed by an outer body (10). The outer body (10) may form the skeleton of the cooking appliance, excluding the door positioned at the front. A separate inner housing (not shown) may be positioned inside the outer body (10).

[0097] At least one heating device (28) for heating food to be cooked or a container containing food is arranged in the above cooktop unit (20). In the present embodiment, a total of four heating devices (28) are arranged in the cooktop unit (20).

[0098] The above cooktop unit (20) may be equipped with a grate (25). The grate (25) is a frame on which a cooking vessel can be placed on top of a heating device (28). The grate (25) is detachably mounted on the cooktop unit (20). The grate (25) may be positioned on top of the heating device (28).

[0099] An operation panel (30) may be arranged above the oven section (40, 50) and in front of the cooktop section (20). The operation panel (30) may include a knob assembly (100) for operating the oven section (40, 50) and the cooktop section (20). Each of the plurality of knob assemblies (100) may operate separate heating devices (28) and the oven device. The operation panel (30) may be viewed as an operation device or may be referred to as a front panel. The operation panel (30) may be arranged in various locations, such as the lower part of the cooking device, the side of the cooking device, or the upper surface of the cooking device, rather than in front of the cooktop section (20).

[0100] The above operation panel (30) may be equipped with a display unit (60). The display unit (60) may display information about the cooking appliance. The display unit (60) may be configured as a touch panel and may be used by a user to operate the cooking appliance. In other words, the display unit (60) may also be a type of operation unit (143). As another example, the display unit (60) may be omitted.

[0101] Looking at the above oven section (40, 50), the oven section (40, 50) may include a plurality of oven devices. In the present embodiment, the oven section (40, 50) includes a first oven device (40) and a second oven device (50). The first oven device (40) and the second oven device (50) are arranged at different heights. The first oven device (40) and the second oven device (50) may each be formed with separate cooking chambers that are partitioned from each other.

[0102] The first door (45) of the first oven device (40) may be operated in a pull-down manner in which the upper portion rotates up and down around the lower portion. As another example, the first door (45) may be operated in a side-swing manner in which it opens sideways. Drawing reference numeral 47 indicates a handle for opening and closing the first door (45).

[0103] The second door (55) of the second oven device (50) may be operated in a manner that slides forward and backward. As another example, similar to the first door (45) above, the second door (55) may also be operated in a type of pull-down manner in which the upper portion rotates up and down around the lower portion. Drawing reference numeral 57 indicates a handle for opening and closing the first door (55).

[0104] Next, the knob assembly (100) will be examined. For reference, as shown in FIG. 1, in the present embodiment, six knob assemblies (100) are arranged on the operation panel (30). This is merely an example, and the operation panel (30) may be provided with one to five or seven or more knob assemblies (100). As another example, the knob assembly (100) may be arranged directly on the top or side of the cooking appliance, rather than on the operation panel (30). As yet another example, the knob assembly (100) may be arranged on the front lower portion of the cooking appliance.

[0105] As shown in Fig. 2, the knob assembly (100) may include a generally circular body and a portion protruding from the circular body to facilitate gripping. In the present embodiment, a lock button (140) is provided on a side of the knob assembly (100). The operation of the knob assembly (100), more precisely, axial operation, is possible only when the user first presses the lock button (140).

[0106] For reference, the axial direction hereinafter refers to the longitudinal direction of the drive shaft (71, see FIG. 3), which is the X-axis direction in FIGS. 2 to 4. The rotational direction hereinafter refers to the direction in which the knob assembly (100) rotates with the drive shaft (71) as the center (see the arrow in FIG. 20). In addition, the radial direction hereinafter refers to the radial direction of the drive shaft (71), which is the same as the radial direction of the rotational path of the knob assembly (100). Hereinafter, the direction in which the lock button (140) moves linearly refers to the Y-axis direction in FIGS. 2 to 4. Of course, when the knob assembly (100) is rotated, the linear movement direction of the lock button (140) may also change. In addition, in the present embodiment, the height direction (based on FIG. 2) of the knob assembly (100) refers to the Z-axis direction. The X-axis direction refers to the rotational axis direction of the button holder (170) to be described below.

[0107] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the components of the knob assembly (100) are illustrated in an exploded state. For convenience of explanation, the drive shaft (71) will be first examined. The drive shaft (71) is coupled to the knob assembly (100). The drive shaft (71) becomes the center of rotation of the knob assembly (100). The drive shaft (71) can rotate together when the knob assembly (100) rotates. The drive shaft (71) can move linearly together when the knob assembly (100) moves in the axial direction.

[0108] The above driving shaft (71) may be provided in a heating driving unit (70, see FIG. 4). The heating driving unit (70) may serve to supply an energy source to the heating device (28). For example, the heating driving unit (70) may be configured to control the heating device (28) while being driven by the driving shaft (71). Therefore, the driving shaft (71) may also be viewed as a valve shaft.

[0109] Here, the energy source can be gas or electricity. When the energy source is electricity, the heating drive unit (70) can be called a regulator, and when the energy source is gas, the heating drive unit (70) can be called a valve assembly. The drive shaft (71) can be a component constituting the knob assembly (100). As another example, the drive shaft (71) can be viewed as a part of the heating drive unit (70). Drawing reference numeral 32 indicates a through hole of the front plate (31) through which the drive shaft (71) passes.

[0110] More specifically, the driving shaft (71) can be coupled to the heating driving unit (70) in a push-and-rotate manner. At this time, the heating driving unit (70) can prevent the driving shaft (71) from rotating when the driving shaft (71) is not pushed. As the driving shaft (71) is pushed and rotated with respect to the heating driving unit (70), the heating driving unit (70) can supply an energy source to the heating device (28).

[0111] The driving shaft (71) may be provided with a coupling member (75). The coupling member (75) may surround an outer circumferential surface of the driving shaft (71). The coupling member (75) may be made of an elastic material such as a plate spring. The coupling member (75) may be disposed between the driving shaft (71) and a shaft coupling hole (132) of a second knob body (130) to be described later, and may provide elastic force between the driving shaft (71) and the shaft coupling hole (132). Accordingly, the driving shaft (71) may be prevented from easily coming off from the shaft coupling hole (132), and the driving shaft (71) may be moved in the axial direction together with the second knob body (130) and may be rotated together.

[0112] The above driving shaft (71) can be manipulated through the knob assembly (100). More precisely, the driving shaft (71) is coupled to the knob body (NB) and can rotate together with the knob body (NB). The driving shaft (71) can move linearly in the axial direction together with the knob body (NB). Therefore, when a user manipulates the knob assembly (100), the heating driving unit (70) is driven via the driving shaft (71), and thereby the heating device (28) is operated.

[0113] Looking at the structure of the above knob assembly (100), the knob assembly (100) may be provided with a base portion (110). The base portion (110) may be placed on the front plate (31) of the operation panel (30). A base hole (111) through which the drive shaft (71) passes may be formed in the base portion (110), thereby supporting the rotation of the drive shaft (71). That is, the base portion (110) may allow the drive shaft (71) to rotate stably and move linearly in the axial direction.

[0114] As another example, the base hole (111) may be omitted from the base portion (110). In this case, the driving shaft (71) may pass directly through the front plate (31) without passing through the base portion (110).

[0115] The above base portion (110) may have a roughly circular plate structure. A base fixing hole (112, illustrated in FIG. 3) is formed on the outside of the base hole (111) with the base hole (111) formed at the center of the base portion (110) as the center. The base fixing hole (112) is a portion through which the first fastener (B1) passes, and the first fastener (B1) can assemble the base portion (110) to the front plate (31).

[0116] As another example, the base portion (110) may be omitted. As another example, the base portion (110) may be formed integrally with the operation panel (30). That is, the base portion (110) may be viewed as a part of the operation panel (30). As another example, the base portion (110) may have various polygonal shapes rather than a circular shape.

[0117] The skeleton of the above knob assembly (100) may be formed by a knob body (NB). The knob body (NB) may surround the driving shaft (71) and the base portion (110). The knob body (NB) is a portion that a user holds. In the present embodiment, the knob body (NB) is composed of a first knob body (120) and a second knob body (130). The first knob body (120) may be exposed to the outside. The second knob body (130) may be arranged inside the first knob body (120).

[0118] In this embodiment, the first knob body (120) may be exposed to the outside and may be a part through which the user operates the knob assembly (100). The second knob body (130) may be arranged inside the first knob body (120) and may perform various functions. For example, the second knob body (130) may perform various functions, such as (i) coupling with the driving shaft (71), (ii) forming an operating space (121b), (iii) supporting an elastic member (S) and a button holder (170), and (iv) fixing a weight plate (160). The function and structure of the second knob body (130) will be examined again below.

[0119] The first knob body (120) may have a roughly cylindrical shape. A coupling space (121a, illustrated in FIG. 4), which is a kind of empty space, may be formed inside the first knob body (120). The coupling space (121a) may be opened toward the operation panel (30). A second knob body (130), a part of the lock button (140), a weight plate (160), a button holder (170), and the like may be arranged in the coupling space (121a). The coupling space (121a) may also be viewed as a kind of internal space or storage space.

[0120] The first knob body (120) may include a first knob ring (121) in the shape of a cone or cylinder. The first knob ring (121) is positioned to face the front plate (31). The first knob ring (121) may wrap a portion of a side surface of the second knob body (130) so as not to expose the second knob body (130) to the outside or to minimize the area exposed to the outside.

[0121] A grip portion (123) may protrude from the upper portion of the knob ring (121). The grip portion (123) protrudes axially from the upper portion of the knob ring (121). The grip portion (123) may be a portion that a user grips. The grip portion (123) may extend long in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction (see the Z-axis direction of FIG. 2). The grip portion (123) has a narrower width than the knob ring (121) and protrudes axially. Reference numeral 123a denotes a reference scale formed on the grip portion (123). Although not shown, a scale may also be indicated on the surface of the knob ring (121).

[0122] A knob top plate (122) may be provided between the knob ring (121) and the grip portion (123). The knob top plate (122) has a plate-like structure formed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. The knob top plate (122) may be provided on each side of the grip portion (123) with the grip portion (123) as the center. Referring to Fig. 4, the coupling space (121a) can be viewed as a space defined by the knob ring (121) and the knob top plate (122).

[0123] An operating space (121b) may be formed inside the grip portion (123). The operating space (121b) is a space formed by the inside of the grip portion (123) being sunken. A part of the lock button (140) may be arranged in the operating space (121b). In the present embodiment, an operating portion (143), which is a part of the lock button (140), is arranged in the operating space (121b). The operating portion (143) may move linearly along the operating space (121b). The operating space (121b) may be connected to the coupling space (121a). Since a fastening plate (FP, see FIG. 6) to be described later blocks a part of the inlet across the operating space (121b), the operating space (121b) may be considered to be defined by the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130).

[0124] As shown in Fig. 4, a first coupling surface (122a) and a second coupling surface (122b) may be formed on the knob top plate (122). The first coupling surface (122a) and the second coupling surface (122b) may be spaced apart from each other with an operating space (121b) therebetween. A fastening plate (FP, see Fig. 10) and a body plate (133) of a second knob body (130) may be in close contact with the first coupling surface (122a) and the second coupling surface (122b) spaced apart from each other with the operating space (121b) therebetween, respectively. This structure will be described again below.

[0125] An operation hole (125) may be formed through the above knob body (NB) in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. In the present embodiment, the operation hole (125) is formed in the first knob body (120). Referring to FIG. 14, the operation portion (143) of the lock button (140) is exposed to the outside through the operation hole (125), so that the operation portion (143) may form the exterior of the knob assembly (100) together with the knob body (NB). That is, it can be seen that a portion of the lock button (140) fills the operation hole (125).

[0126] The above lock button (140) may be restricted from moving due to interference with the edge of the operation hole (125) during the process of moving from the second button position (knob unlocked position) to the first button position (knob locked position). The lock button (140) may be caught on the edge of the operation hole (125) and may not be completely separated from the knob body (NB) and may remain in the operation space (121b) formed inside the first knob body (120).

[0127] The above-mentioned operation hole (125) may be formed on only one of the left and right sides of the first knob body (120). In the present embodiment, the operation hole (125) is formed on the left side of the first knob body (120). In the present embodiment, since only one lock button (140) is provided, the operation hole (125) may also be formed on only one side of the first knob body (120). As another example, the operation hole (125) may be formed on the right side of the first knob body (120). As yet another example, the operation hole (125) may be formed on each of the left and right sides of the first knob body (120).

[0128] Referring to Fig. 12, the first knob body (120) may be provided with a body rib (126) that protrudes in the axial direction toward the surface of the lock button (140). The body rib (126) may be provided on the first coupling surface (122a) of the first knob body (120). The body rib (126) reduces the contact area with the button body (141) of the lock button (140), thereby reducing the frictional force during the movement of the lock button (140).

[0129] The above body rib (126) can extend in the movement direction of the lock button (140). The body rib (126) can extend in the same direction as the extension direction of the first button rib (141a) provided on the lock button (140) to be described below. Here, the extension direction of the first button rib (141a) becomes the movement direction of the lock button (140).

[0130] By the above body rib (126), a first movement space (MS1) can be formed between the first coupling surface (122a) of the first knob body (120) and the upper surface (141a') of the button body (141). The first movement space (MS1) can be viewed as a free space formed so that the lock button (140) can move in a straight line. The first movement space (MS1) can be formed around the body rib (126).

[0131] Referring to Fig. 6, the first coupling surface (122a) of the first knob body (120) may be provided with a 1-1 coupling portion (127a) forming a first coupling portion (FM1). The 2-1 coupling portion (137a) of the second knob body (130), which will be described below, may be assembled by being hooked onto the 1-1 coupling portion (127a), thereby forming the first coupling portion (FM1). In the present embodiment, a pair of 1-1 coupling portions (127a) are spaced apart from each other on the first coupling surface (122a). The first coupling portion (FM1) will be described again below.

[0132] The second coupling surface (122b) of the first knob body (120) may be provided with a first-second coupling portion (127b) constituting a second coupling portion (FM2). The first-second coupling portion (127b) is spaced apart from the first-first coupling portion (127a) with the operating space (121b) interposed therebetween. The first-second coupling portion (127b) may form the second coupling portion (FM2) by engaging the second-second coupling portion (137b) of the second knob body (130), which will be described below. In the present embodiment, one first-second coupling portion (127b) is disposed on the second coupling surface (122b). The second coupling portion (FM2) will be described again below.

[0133] Referring to Fig. 12, a guide rib (128) may be provided on the outside of the body rib (126). The guide rib (128) may wrap around the side of the button body (141) provided in the lock button (140). The guide rib (128) may wrap around the button body (141) to guide the movement direction of the lock button (140). The guide ribs (128) may be configured as a pair on the second coupling surface (122b), and the button body (141) may be placed between the pair of guide ribs (128).

[0134] The above guide rib (128) may be provided with a spacer (128a). The spacer (128a) further protrudes in the axial direction from the guide rib (128). The spacer (128a) protrudes toward the surface of the weight plate (160) to be described below. The spacer (128a) maintains an axial gap between the first coupling surface (122a), which is the surface of the first knob body (120), and the weight plate (160). Accordingly, the phenomenon in which the weight plate (160) is excessively pressed toward the first knob body (120) and the button body (141) is caught between the weight plate (160) and the first knob body (120) can be prevented.

[0135] More precisely, the spacer (128a) may be arranged to surround the periphery of the button body (141). The axial height of the spacer (128a) may be equal to or greater than the axial thickness of the button body (141). In the present embodiment, the axial height of the spacer (128a) is greater than the axial thickness of the button body (141). The reference numeral K indicates a height at which the spacer (128a) protrudes further in the axial direction than the bottom surface (141b') of the button body (141). A second moving space (MS2) may be secured between the button body (141) and the weight plate (160) by the spacer (128a). As another example, the guide rib (128) may be omitted from the first knob body (120) and only the spacer (128a) may be provided. As another example, the spacer (128a) may protrude from the weight plate (160) toward the first knob body (120).

[0136] Looking at the second knob body (130), the second knob body (130) can be placed in the joining space (121a) of the first knob body (120). The second knob body (130) can be joined to the first knob body (120) through the first joining portion (FM1) and the second joining portion (FM2). In addition, the second knob body (130) can be bonded to the first knob body (120) by an adhesive layer. Accordingly, the first knob body (120), the second knob body (130), and the weight plate (160) to be described later can be assembled with each other and operated together.

[0137] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the second knob body (130) may be provided with a shaft coupling portion (131) to which one end of the driving shaft (71) is coupled. The shaft coupling portion (131) may have an approximately cylindrical shape. The shaft coupling portion (131) may be positioned at the center of the knob body (NB). A shaft coupling hole (132) is formed in the shaft coupling portion (131), and the driving shaft (71) may be inserted into the shaft coupling hole (132). The driving shaft (71) may be fixed within the shaft coupling hole (132) without rotating within the shaft coupling hole (132).

[0138] When one end of the driving shaft (71) is inserted into the shaft coupling hole (132), the driving shaft (71) can rotate together with the second knob body (130) and move axially together with the second knob body (130). That is, when the second knob body (130) is driven together with the first knob body (120), the driving shaft (71) is also driven together. For example, when the second knob body (130) is pushed axially together with the first knob body (120), the driving shaft (71) also moves axially. When the second knob body (130) is rotated around the driving shaft (71) together with the first knob body (120), the driving shaft (71) also rotates together. Therefore, the driving shaft (71) may also be referred to as a rotational shaft.

[0139] The second knob body (130) is coupled to the driving shaft (71) and can also be coupled to the weight plate (160). Since the second knob body (130) has a coupling structure with other components, the first knob body (120) can be made with a relatively simple and thin structure. Accordingly, when the first knob body (120) is injection-molded, a phenomenon in which a part of the first knob body (120) shrinks due to its complex shape, thereby creating a sink mark or a flow mark can be prevented.

[0140] The outer circumferential surface (139) of the shaft coupling portion (131) may have a shape corresponding to the button inner surface (149) of the lock button (140) to be described below. Referring to FIG. 12, the outer circumferential surface (139) of the shaft coupling portion (131) has a curved shape, and the button inner surface (149) of the lock button (140) has a sunken structure with a corresponding curved shape. When the lock button (140) moves linearly in the direction of the shaft coupling portion (131), the outer circumferential surface (139) of the shaft coupling portion (131) may be seated on the button inner surface (149) of the lock button (140), and the movement distance of the lock button (140) may increase.

[0141] Referring to Fig. 6, the second knob body (130) may be provided with an avoidance portion (133') that is sunken along the movement direction of the lock button (140). The avoidance portion (133') may provide a movement path to the lock button (140). The avoidance portion (133') may guide the movement of the lock button (140) so that the lock button (140) moves in a straight line in a certain direction without being twisted to one side. In Fig. 6, reference numeral D indicates a movable space of the lock button (140) formed by the first coupling surface (122a) and the surface of the avoidance portion (133') being spaced apart from each other.

[0142] The second knob body (130) may be provided with a body plate (133). The body plate (133) has a substantially plate-like structure. The shaft coupling portion (131) is connected to the body plate (133). The body plate (133) is a portion that is coupled to the first knob body (120) and the weight plate (160). To this end, the body plate (133) may (i) be coupled to the first knob body (120) by the second coupling portion (FM2), (ii) be adhered to the first knob body (120), and (iii) be coupled to the weight plate (160) by a second coupling member (B2). A coupling member passage hole (134) into which the second coupling member (B2) is assembled is formed in the body plate (133).

[0143] In the present embodiment, the body plate (133) has an approximately semicircular shape corresponding to the shape of the coupling space (121a). That is, a portion of the side surface of the second knob body (130) facing the inner surface of the coupling space (121a) has a curved shape, and another portion of the side surface of the second knob body (130) facing the lock button (140) has a flat shape. The curved portion faces the inner surface of the coupling space (121a), and the flat portion faces the lock button (140). A portion of the lock button (140) may interfere with the flat portion of the second knob body (130).

[0144] Referring to Fig. 14, the plate upper surface (133a'), which is a surface formed on the upper portion of the body plate (133), faces the second coupling surface (122b) of the first knob body (120). The plate lower surface (133b'), which is a surface formed on the lower portion of the body plate (133), faces the surface of the weight plate (160). Accordingly, both surfaces of the body plate (133) face the first knob body (120) and the weight plate (160), respectively.

[0145] Referring to Fig. 5, the edge of the second knob body (130) may be provided with a flow-preventing fence (135) protruding along the axial direction. The surface of the flow-preventing fence (135) is arranged to face the surface of the first knob body (120), so that the second knob body (130) can be maintained in a state of being firmly in contact with the first knob body (120) in the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction.

[0146] Referring to Fig. 10, the second knob body (130) may be provided with a supporter portion (136). The supporter portion (136) protrudes toward the opposite side of the base portion (110) along the axial direction. The supporter portion (136) protrudes in a raised shape from the body plate (133). The supporter portion (136) may extend in the same direction as the grip portion (123), i.e., in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0147] The above supporter portion (136) may be arranged at the bottom of a pair of elastic members (S) to be described later. Referring to Fig. 5, a pair of elastic members (S) may be arranged at the top of the supporter portion (136) to support the pair of elastic members (S) from below. That is, the supporter portion (136) may prevent the pair of elastic members (S) from being twisted to one side during the process of contraction / relaxation.

[0148] The remaining portion of the second knob body (130) except for the shaft coupling portion (131) and the lock button (140) may be arranged on opposite sides with respect to the shaft coupling portion (131). More precisely, the body plate (133) and the lock button (140) may be arranged on opposite sides with respect to the drive shaft (71). Referring to Fig. 14, the body plate (133) is arranged on the left side and the lock button (140) is arranged on the right side with respect to the drive shaft (71). In this way, the center of gravity of the knob assembly (100) can be prevented from being tilted to one side due to the lock button (140). In addition, since the body plate (133) fills an empty space on one side of the coupling space (121a) where the lock button (140) is not present, the overall durability of the knob assembly (100) can be increased.

[0149] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the second knob body (130) may be provided with a fastening plate (FP). The fastening plate (FP) is connected to the body plate (133) and may be in close contact with the first coupling surface (122a). The fastening plate (FP) may be in close contact with the first coupling surface (122a) across the operating space (121b). It can be seen that the body plate (133) is connected to one end of the fastening plate (FP). The fastening plates (FP) may be provided on both sides of the avoidance portion (133') with the avoidance portion (133') as the center.

[0150] The above-described fastening plate (FP) may be provided with a second-first fastening portion (137a) that is hooked and fixed to the first knob body (120). The second-first fastening portion (137a) constitutes a part of the first fastening portion (FM1). The second-first fastening portion (137a) that is hooked to the first-first fastening portion (127a) by rotation may also be referred to as a hooking projection (137a). Drawing reference numeral 137a' indicates a hooking surface of the second-first fastening portion (137a) that is supported by the first-first fastening portion (127a) when the first-first fastening portion (127a) is engaged with the second-first fastening portion (137a).

[0151] The second knob body (130) may be provided with a second-second fastening portion (137b). The second-second fastening portion (137b) may form the second fastening portion (FM2) together with the first-second fastening portion (127b) of the first knob body (120). In the present embodiment, the second-second fastening portion (137b) is provided at one end of the body plate (133). The second-second fastening portion (137b) may be fixed by being hooked onto the first-second fastening portion (127b). The second-second fastening portion (137b) may have a step structure or may be configured with a hook structure capable of elastic deformation.

[0152] As shown in Fig. 6, a first separation distance (A1) is formed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction between one end of the 1-1 fastening portion (127a) facing each other and one end of the 1-2 fastening portion (127b). A second separation distance (A2) is formed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction between the end of the 2-1 fastening portion (137a) facing oppositely and the end of the 2-2 fastening portion (137b). At this time, the second separation distance (A2) may be longer than the first separation distance (A1). In this case, when the second knob body (130) is axially coupled to the first knob body (120), the distal end of the second-first fastening portion (137a) and the distal end of the second-second fastening portion (137b) cannot be coupled to one end of the first-first fastening portion (127a) and one end of the first-second fastening portion (127b), respectively. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the second knob body (130) can be assembled to the first knob body (120) along the rotational path. This structure will be described in detail below.

[0153] Referring to Fig. 5, the second knob body (130) may be provided with a support protrusion (138) protruding along the axial direction. The support protrusion (138) protrudes from the body plate (133) in the axial direction. The support protrusion (138) may protrude in the same direction as the movement prevention fence (135) and the supporter portion (136). The support protrusion (138) may be connected to the supporter portion (136) so as to be adjacent to the supporter portion (136).

[0154] As shown in Fig. 5, the support protrusion (138) is disposed below the elastic member (S) to support the elastic member (S). The elastic member (S) may be disposed between the upper surface (138a) of the support protrusion (138) and the surface of the first knob body (120). Reference numeral 138a indicates the upper surface of the support protrusion (138), and the upper surface (138a) may be a support surface of the elastic member (S). The upper surface (138a) may have an inclined surface structure along the elastic deformation direction of the elastic member (S).

[0155] Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 4, the knob assembly (100) is provided with a lock button (140). The lock button (140) may be arranged on the knob body (NB) and may be dependent on the operation of the knob body (NB). Basically, when the knob body (NB) moves linearly in the axial direction or rotates around the drive shaft (71), the lock button (140) may move linearly and rotate together with the knob body (NB). However, the lock button (140) may move independently from the knob body (NB) in a direction other than the axial direction.

[0156] The above lock button (140) may constitute a part of the grip surface that the user grips when gripping the knob assembly (100). For example, when the user grips the knob assembly (100) with the thumb and index finger, the user may grip the surface of the grip portion (123) with the index finger and simultaneously grip the operating portion (143) of the lock button (140) with the thumb. In this state, when the user presses the knob assembly (100) with the thumb and index finger, the surface of the grip portion (123) is fixed, but the operating portion (143) formed on the opposite side may be pressed and moved toward the inside of the knob body (NB).

[0157] As shown in Fig. 14, the lock button (140) may be positioned on the opposite side of the remaining portion of the second knob body (130) excluding the shaft coupling portion (131) based on the shaft coupling portion (131). More precisely, the body plate (133) and the lock button (140) may be positioned on opposite sides with the drive shaft (71) as the center.

[0158] The above lock button (140) can restrict movement of the knob body (NB), the weight plate (160), and the lock button (140) constituting the knob assembly (100) in the axial direction, i.e., in the direction of the operation panel (30), or can release the restriction of movement. The lock button (140) can have a first button position where the axial movement is restricted by interference from the base portion (110), and a second button position where the axial movement is possible. Therefore, the first button position can be referred to as a knob lock position, and the second button position can be referred to as a knob release position.

[0159] Here, the knob lock position is a state in which the lock button (140) protrudes relatively from the knob body (NB), as in the states of FIGS. 13 and 14. The lock button (140) is disposed at the furthest position in the radial direction from the drive shaft (71) at the knob lock position. At the same time, the knob lock position means a position in which the safety pin (150) is disposed at the furthest position in the radial direction from the drive shaft (71). The knob release position is a position to which the lock button (140) moves when pressed from the knob lock position, as in the states of FIGS. 15 and 16. The lock button (140) is disposed closest to the drive shaft (71) in the radial direction at the knob release position. At the same time, the knob release position means a position in which the safety pin (150) is disposed closest to the drive shaft (71) in the radial direction.

[0160] The above lock button (140) may interfere with the base portion (110) in the axial direction at the knob lock position. Here, interference means that the axial movement of the lock button (140) is restricted. When the lock button (140) is axially interfered with by the base portion (110), the lock button (140) may not be able to move in the axial direction toward the operation panel (30), or the movement distance may be restricted.

[0161] The above knob body (NB) and the lock button (140) are mutually constrained in the axial direction, so that the knob body (NB) and the lock button (140) can move linearly together along the axial direction. Since the lock button (140) and the knob body (NB) are mutually constrained in the axial direction, if the axial movement of the lock button (140) is restricted, the axial movement of the entire knob body (NB) is also restricted.

[0162] At this time, the lock button (140) can move linearly in a direction different from the axial direction between the knob-locked position and the knob-released position. In the present embodiment, the lock button (140) can reciprocate between the knob-locked position and the knob-released position while moving in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. As another example, the lock button (140) can move in an oblique direction while having a predetermined angle with respect to the axial direction. As yet another example, the lock button (140) can move along a curved path with respect to the axial direction.

[0163] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the lock button (140) may include a button body (141). The button body (141) may be inserted into the coupling space (121a). The button body (141) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. The side surface of the button body (141) may have a curved shape corresponding to the inner surface of the coupling space (121a).

[0164] Referring to Fig. 12, the lock button (140) may be provided with a first button rib (141a) that protrudes toward the surface of the first knob body (120). The first button rib (141a) is provided on the button body (141). The first button rib (141a) may extend along the direction in which the lock button (140) moves between the knob locked position and the knob released position.

[0165] More precisely, the button body (141) is formed with a first button surface (141a') facing the first engagement surface (122a) of the first knob body (120), and the first button rib (141a) is provided on the first button surface (141a'). The first button rib (141a) can serve to reduce the contact area between the lock button (140) and the first knob body (120), thereby lowering friction.

[0166] At this time, the body rib (126) and the first button rib (141a) can extend in the same direction. As shown in Fig. 12, the body rib (126) and the first button rib (141a) overlap in the axial direction and can maintain a state of contact with each other. In this way, even if the thickness of the button body (141) constituting the lock button (140) is reduced, the button body (141) and the first knob body (120) can maintain a state of contact with each other.

[0167] The lock button (140) may be provided with a second button rib (141b) protruding toward the surface of the weight plate (160). The second button rib (141b) may extend along the direction in which the lock button (140) moves between the knob-locked position and the knob-released position. In the present embodiment, the button body (141) is formed with a second button surface (141b') facing the surface of the weight plate (160), and the second button rib (141b) is provided on the second button surface (141b'). The second button rib (141b) may serve to reduce the contact area between the lock button (140) and the weight plate (160), thereby lowering friction.

[0168] The button body (141) may be provided with an operation part (143). The operation part (143) is a portion that a user presses to operate the button body (141). At least a portion of the operation part (143) may be exposed to the outside of the knob assembly (100) through the operation hole (125) to form a grip surface.

[0169] The above-mentioned operating unit (143) can extend in an erecting direction from the button body (141). Here, the erecting direction is the up-down direction with reference to FIG. 5. The above-mentioned operating unit (143) is arranged in the operating space (121b) and can be moved along the operating space (121b).

[0170] The above-described operation part (143) may be provided with the above-described protrusion (145). The above-described protrusion (145) may extend from the operation part (143) in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the operation part (143) extends from the button body (141). The above-described protrusion (145) may increase the support area between the surface of the operation part (143) and the surface of the knob body (NB). Referring to FIG. 9, the upper surface of the above-described protrusion (145) and the inner surface (121b) of the operating space (121b) inside the first knob body (120) constituting the knob body (NB) face each other. By the above-described protrusion (145), the lock button (140) may be stably operated in a certain direction (left and right directions based on FIG. 14).

[0171] Referring to FIG. 5, the protruding end (145) may be provided with a protruding rib (145a). The protruding rib (145a) may reduce the contact area between the protruding end (145) and the inner surface of the first knob body (120), thereby reducing friction during the movement of the lock button (140). The protruding rib (145a) may extend along the movement direction of the lock button (140). The protruding rib (145a) protrudes toward the inner surface of the operating space (121b) of the first knob body (120). Therefore, among the protruding end (145), a portion that comes into contact with the inner surface of the operating space (121b) of the first knob body (120) may be concentrated on the protruding rib (145a). The protruding rib (145a) may be configured in multiple numbers to prevent the lock button (140) from leaning to one side.

[0172] Referring again to FIGS. 12 and 14, the lock button (140) may be provided with a safety pin (150) that interferes with or releases interference with the base portion (110, not shown in FIG. 12). The safety pin (150) may protrude further toward the base portion (110) along the axial direction than the lock button (140). The safety pin (150) may protrude from the button body (141) in an approximately cantilevered shape. At the knob locking position, the safety pin (150) becomes a portion that substantially interferes with the base portion (110). The safety pin (150) may be formed integrally with the button body (141), or the safety pin (150) may be formed as a separate part and assembled to the button body (141).

[0173] As shown in Fig. 14, the safety pin (150) may interfere with the stopper (115) of the base portion (110). In the knob-locked position, the stopper (115) is aligned with the safety pin (150) in the axial direction and interferes with it. Referring to Fig. 16, in the knob-released position, the stopper (115) is misaligned with the safety pin (150) in the axial direction, thereby releasing the interference. In this way, depending on the position of the lock button (140), the safety pin (150) may interfere with the stopper (115) or the interference may be released.

[0174] Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 4, a weight plate (160) that rotates and moves together with the knob body (NB) may be coupled to the knob body (NB). The weight plate (160) may have a circular plate structure corresponding to the coupling space (121a). The weight plate (160) may increase the overall weight of the knob assembly (100), thereby improving the operating feel of the knob assembly (100). For this purpose, the weight plate (160) may be made of a metal material.

[0175] The center of the weight plate (160) may be provided with a shaft through hole (161) through which the driving shaft (71) is inserted. A plate fastening hole (167) through which a second fastening member (B2) passes may be formed around the shaft through hole (161) with the shaft through hole (161) as the center. In the present embodiment, the weight plate (160) is assembled to the second knob body (130) by the second fastening member (B2).

[0176] The weight plate (160) is positioned below the lock button (140) to prevent disassembly of the lock button (140). The weight plate (160) may interfere with the lock button (140) in the axial direction to prevent the lock button (140) from being separated in the axial direction.

[0177] The weight plate (160) may have a pin through hole (165) that passes through the pin through hole (165). The pin through hole (165) is a portion through which the safety pin (150) passes. Since the safety pin (150) must move between the knob-locked position and the knob-released position, the pin through hole (165) may extend along the radial direction of the weight plate (160). The safety pin (150) may move between the knob-locked position and the knob-released position while being inserted into the pin through hole (165). The pin through hole (165) may also be connected to the shaft through hole (161).

[0178] The above knob body (NB) is provided with a button holder (170). The button holder (170) is used to bind or release the lock button (140) at a specific position. More precisely, the button holder (170) releases the function of the lock button (140), so that even when the lock button (140) is not operated, the knob assembly (100) can be operated in a general push-and-turn manner. As another example, the button holder (170) may be omitted.

[0179] The button holder (170) can move between a button release position (first holder position) and a button binding position (second holder position) while being rotated while being placed on the knob assembly (100). Here, the button release position refers to a state in which the lock button (140) can move between the knob lock position and the knob release position. The button binding position refers to a state in which the button holder (170) interferes with the lock button (140) so that the lock button (140) is bound to a specific position, for example, the knob release position. In this way, in the present embodiment, the button holder (170) can deactivate the function of the lock button (140) by binding the lock button (140) to a specific position. If the user does not want the function of the lock button (140), i.e., does not want the knob assembly (100) to be in a locked state, the user can move the button holder (170) to the button release position.

[0180] The button holder (170) may not be exposed to the outside of the knob body (NB). More precisely, when the knob assembly (100) is mounted on the operation panel (30) as shown in FIG. 2, the button holder (170) is not exposed to the outside. This is because the knob body (NB) surrounds the button holder (170). Therefore, in order for a user to operate the button holder (170), the user must first separate the knob assembly (100) from the drive shaft (71) and then operate the button holder (170). This structure will be described again below.

[0181] The button holder (170) can be rotated independently of the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130). The button holder (170) can also be rotated independently of the lock button (140). A user can restrict the operation of the lock button (140) by rotating only the button holder (170) in the knob assembly (100).

[0182] When the weight plate (160) is viewed as a part of the knob body (NB), the button holder (170) may be viewed as being arranged in the knob body (NB). As another example, the weight plate (160) may be omitted, and the button holder (170) may be arranged in the knob body (NB). When the button holder (170) is arranged in the knob body (NB), the button holder (170) may be guided by the knob body (NB) and rotate to move between the button release position and the button engagement position.

[0183] Looking at the structure of the button holder (170), the button holder (170) includes a holder body (172) having a roughly ring shape. A holder penetration portion (170a) is formed at the center of the holder body (172). The holder body (172) can surround the outer circumference of the weight plate (160). The holder body (172) can rotate along the outer circumference of the weight plate (160). That is, the button holder (170) is coupled to surround the outer circumference of the weight plate (160) and can rotate around the weight plate (160). Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the holder body (172) has a larger diameter than the weight plate (160). At the same time, the holder body (172) can have a smaller diameter than the knob ring (121) of the first knob body (120). Accordingly, the holder body (172) may be surrounded by the knob ring (121) and not be exposed.

[0184] The holder body (172) may be provided with a rotation guide (172a). The rotation guide (172a) protrudes radially from one end of the holder body (172) toward the center of the button holder (170). The rotation guide (172a) is mounted on the surface of the weight plate (160). Referring to FIG. 12, the rotation guide (172a) is mounted on the upper surface of the weight plate (160). The rotation guide (172a) can prevent the button holder (170) from being deviated in the direction toward the operation panel (30) (downward in FIG. 12). The rotation guide (172a) may be provided in a circular shape continuously formed on the edge of the holder body (172), or may be in a discontinuously formed arc shape.

[0185] A part of the button holder (170) may be placed between the weight plate (160) and the first knob body (120). Referring to FIG. 12, a rotation guide (172a) of the button holder (170) is placed between the weight plate (160) and the first knob body (120). The button holder (170) may be placed in a rotatably state between the weight plate (160) and the first knob body (120).

[0186] Alternatively, the button holder (170) may be disposed between the weight plate (160) and the second knob body (130). Referring to FIG. 14, the rotation guide (172a) provided on the left side of the drawing is disposed between the second knob body (130) and the weight plate (160). The button holder (170) may be disposed in a rotatably manner between the weight plate (160) and the second knob body (130). In the present embodiment, a part of the button holder (170) is disposed between the weight plate (160) and the first knob body (120), and another part of the button holder (170) is disposed between the weight plate (160) and the second knob body (130).

[0187] Referring to Fig. 21, the button holder (170) may be provided with a catch rib (173). The catch rib (173) protrudes further toward the center of rotation of the button holder (170) than the rotation guide (172). The catch rib (173) increases the area where the button holder (170) catches the surface of the weight plate (160), thereby allowing the button holder (170) to rotate more stably. In addition, the catch rib (173) may serve to limit the rotation angle of the button holder (170) when the button holder (170) rotates relative to the knob body (NB). This structure will be described again below.

[0188] Referring again to FIG. 4, the button holder (170) may be provided with a holder handle (174). The holder handle (174) may protrude in the axial direction from the edge of the button holder (170) toward the operation panel (30). The holder handle (174) becomes a portion that a user holds when rotating the button holder (170). The holder handle (174) may be made to protrude in the axial and radial directions so that the user can easily hold it. As another example, the holder handle (174) may be omitted, and the user may rotate the button holder (170) itself.

[0189] The holder body (172) may be provided with an interference portion (175). The interference portion (175) is positioned in the movement path of the lock button (140) at the button restraint position of the button holder (170). The interference portion (175) supports one side of the lock button (140) that has moved to the knob lock position, thereby preventing the lock button (140) from moving back to the knob release position.

[0190] The above interference portion (175) may protrude radially toward the center of rotation of the button holder (170). When the button holder (170) protrudes radially, the direction in which the interference portion (175) faces may also change depending on the rotation angle of the button holder (170). For example, the interference portion (175) may be positioned in the movement path of the lock button (140) at the button restraint position of the button holder (170) and may protrude toward the lock button (140).

[0191] The above interference portion (175) may have a length protruding in the radial direction along the circumferential direction of the button holder (170). Referring to FIG. 21, the length protruding in the radial direction of the interference portion (175) gradually increases in the clockwise direction. More precisely, the length protruding in the radial direction of the interference portion (175) increases in the direction opposite to the direction in which the button holder (170) rotates toward the button restraint position (counterclockwise in FIG. 21). In this way, when the button holder (170) is rotated, the force for overcoming the elastic force by the elastic member (S) is distributed, thereby improving operability.

[0192] A position fixing portion (178) may be formed in the radial direction of the button holder (170) in the above interference portion (175). The position fixing portion (178) may allow the interference portion (175) to be fixed at the button-locked position or the button-released position. In the present embodiment, the position fixing portion (178) is recessed from the surface of the interference portion (175) to the radial outer side of the button holder (170). Referring to Fig. 21, the position fixing portion (178) is recessed in the radial direction from the outer surface of the interference portion (175).

[0193] The above position fixing part (178) can be coupled to a relative fixing part (138, 148) provided in at least one of the knob body (NB) or the lock button (140). The relative fixing part (138, 148) can be inserted into the position fixing part (178) to fix the button holder (170) in the circumferential direction. The button holder (170) caught in the relative fixing part (138, 148) cannot be rotated arbitrarily along the circumferential direction, and can only be rotated when a user applies an external force.

[0194] The above relative fixing part (138, 148) may include a first relative fixing part (138) and a second relative fixing part (148). The first relative fixing part (138) is provided at a position facing the position fixing part (178) in the knob body (NB). The first relative fixing part (138) may be inserted into the position fixing part (178) to fix the button holder (170) to the button release position.

[0195] The second relative fixing part (148) may be provided on the lock button (140). The second relative fixing part (148) may protrude from the lock button (140) in the movement direction of the lock button (140). The second relative fixing part (148) may be coupled with the position fixing part (178) at the button binding position, so that the button holder (170) may be fixed at the button binding position. Referring to FIG. 25, the position fixing part (178) may be coupled to the second relative fixing part (148).

[0196] Referring to FIG. 5, the operation of the knob body (NB) and the lock button (140) can be examined. The lock button (140) can be pressed in the direction of arrow ①. When the lock button (140) is pressed in the direction of arrow ①, the lock button (140) moves from the knob-locked position to the knob-released position. For reference, in FIG. 5, the lock button (140) is positioned at the knob-locked position, and its movement in the axial direction is restricted. When the lock button (140) moves in the direction of arrow ①, the second knob body (130), the lock button (140), and the button holder (170) can move in the axial direction (direction of arrow ②), except for the base portion (110, not shown in FIG. 5) fixed to the operation panel (30).

[0197] The knob assembly (100) moved in the axial direction in this way can be rotated in the direction of arrow ③. At this time, together with the second knob body (130), the first knob body (120, omitted in FIG. 5) and the lock button (140) are also rotated together. They can also be rotated in the direction opposite to the direction of arrow ③. Meanwhile, when the user removes the external force pressing the lock button (140), the lock button (140) can be moved in the direction of arrow ④ by the elastic member (S) and returned to the knob lock position.

[0198] At this time, when the button holder (170) rotates in the direction of arrow ⑤, the button holder (170) can be placed in the button locking position. In the button locking position, the button holder (170) interferes with the locking button (140), thereby restricting the locking button (140) from moving back to its original position, i.e., in the direction of arrow ④ toward the knob locking position. This structure will be examined in more detail below.

[0199] Next, the coupling structure of the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) will be described. The first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) can be coupled to each other in the axial direction. Referring to Fig. 6, the second knob body (130) is laminated to the first knob body (120) in the axial direction.

[0200] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, a joining area may be formed between the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130). The joining area refers to a portion where the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) are assembled and tightly attached to each other. The joining area is formed (i) between the first joining surface (122a) and the fastening plate (FP), and (ii) between the second joining surface (122b) and the body plate (133).

[0201] An adhesive may be applied to the above-described bonding area to form an adhesive layer. The adhesive is applied to the above-described bonding area to bond the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130). In the present embodiment, the adhesive layer is formed between the second bonding surface (122b) and the body plate (133). As another example, the adhesive layer may also be formed between the first bonding surface (122a) and the fastening plate (FP).

[0202] Referring to FIG. 6, the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) can be assembled to each other through a plurality of fastening parts (FM1, FM2). The plurality of fastening parts (FM1, FM2) are distributed to each other, so that the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) can be assembled at a plurality of locations. In the present embodiment, the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) are assembled to each other through the first fastening part (FM1) and the second fastening part (FM2).

[0203] The above-described joining area may be provided with a plurality of fastening parts (FM1, FM2) spaced apart from each other. The plurality of fastening parts (FM1, FM2) may be capable of axially joining the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130). The plurality of fastening parts (FM1, FM2) may be joined through elastic deformation, thereby allowing the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) to remain in close contact with each other. In the present embodiment, a part of the joining area becomes an adhesive area, and the plurality of fastening parts (FM1, FM2) are arranged to surround the adhesive area, thereby temporarily fixing the two knob bodies (120, 130) between them during a time when an adhesive applied to the adhesive area is cured.

[0204] The above-described plurality of fastening parts (FM1, FM2) may include a first fastening part (FM1) and a second fastening part (FM2). The first fastening part (FM1) is provided on the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130), and can hook and fix one end of the second knob body (130) through a hooking structure. The second fastening part (FM2) is provided to be spaced apart from the first fastening part (FM1), and can hook and fix the other end of the second knob body (130) through elastic deformation. Either the first fastening part (FM1) or the second fastening part (FM2) may wrap and fix the edge of the second knob body (130), and in the present embodiment, the first fastening part (FM1) and the second fastening part (FM2) wrap and fix both ends of the second knob body (130), respectively.

[0205] The first fastening portion (FM1) may be composed of a pair of first fastening portions (FM1). The pair of first fastening portions (FM1) are spaced apart from each other with the avoidance portion (133') of the second knob body (130) to be described below interposed therebetween. The pair of first fastening portions (FM1) and the second fastening portion (FM2) may be distributed to each other to firmly contact the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) at multiple locations. As another example, the first fastening portion (FM1) may be composed of only one.

[0206] The first fastening portion (FM1) is illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7. The first fastening portion (FM1) includes a first-first fastening portion (127a) of the first knob body (120) and a second-first fastening portion (137a) of the second knob body (130). The first-first fastening portion (127a) may have a hooking projection (127a) structure, and the second-first fastening portion (137a) may be configured as a protrusion that hooks onto the hooking projection (127a). Accordingly, the second-first fastening portion (137a) may be fitted into the first-first fastening portion (127a) along the direction of arrow ① in FIG. 7, and the second-first fastening portion (137a) may be engaged with the first-first fastening portion (127a). In this way, based on Fig. 7, the 2-1 fastening part (137a) is supported by the 1-1 fastening part (127a) and is not separated downward.

[0207] In Fig. 7, reference numeral 127a' represents a first engaging surface formed on the 1-1 fastening portion (127a), and reference numeral 137a' represents a second engaging surface (137a') of the 2-1 fastening portion (137a) that is engaged with the first engaging surface (127a'). The first engaging surface (127a') and the second engaging surface (137a') can maintain a state of surface contact with each other. The 1-1 fastening portion (127a) can have an approximately L-shaped structure including the first engaging surface (127a'). The 2-1 fastening portion (137a) can have an approximately L-shaped structure including the second engaging surface (137a'). These can be interlocked with each other to secure a sufficiently long engaging length (FD).

[0208] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the first bonding surface (122a) provides a relatively narrow area compared to the second bonding surface (122b). Accordingly, the first bonding surface (122a) may have a narrow area of ​​an adhesive layer, may not be able to form an adhesive layer, and may not be able to secure an area for assembling a separate fastener (screw, etc.). Therefore, it is preferable that the first fastening portion (FM1) arranged on the first bonding surface (122a) be configured as a relatively more rigid fastening device than the second fastening portion (FM2). To this end, in the present embodiment, the 1-1 fastening portion (127a) is not configured as an elastically deformable hook structure or snap-fit ​​structure, but as a catching protrusion (127a) structure, and the 2-1 fastening portion (137a) is also configured as a simple protrusion structure that catches the catching protrusion (127a).

[0209] In this state, the second knob body (130) can be rotated in the direction of arrow ② so that assembly can be performed at the second fastening portion (FM2). The second fastening portion (FM2) is illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 8. As seen in FIG. 6, the second fastening portion (FM2) is arranged to be spaced apart from the first fastening portion (FM1). The second fastening portion (FM2) may be provided on the opposite side of the first fastening portion (FM1). More precisely, with respect to the shaft coupling portion (131) of the second knob body (130), the second fastening portion (FM2) is arranged on the opposite side of the first fastening portion (FM1).

[0210] Referring to Fig. 8, the second fastening portion (FM2) includes the 1-2 fastening portion (127b) of the first knob body (120) and the 2-2 fastening portion (137b) of the second knob body (130). The 1-2 fastening portion (127b) may be a hook structure that is a cantilever that can be elastically deformed. Accordingly, when the second knob body (130) is assembled to the first knob body (120) in the axial direction (arrow ①), the 1-2 fastening portion (127b) is elastically deformed in a direction other than the axial direction (arrow ②) and then restored to hook the 2-2 fastening portion (137b), thereby defining a hooked state.

[0211] In this way, in the present embodiment, the coupling area is provided with a plurality of mutually spaced fastening parts (FM1, FM2). The plurality of fastening parts (FM1, FM2) can couple the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) in the axial direction.

[0212] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the assembly process of the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) will be examined in more detail. First, referring to FIG. 9, the operating space (121b) is a kind of empty space, and the operating space (121b) cannot form the joining area, and the joining force between the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) may be weakened due to the existence of the operating space (121b). In the present embodiment, the 1-1 fastening portion (127a) and the 1-2 fastening portion (127b) are arranged on opposite sides with the operating space (121b) therebetween. In this way, since the 1-1 fastening portion (127a) is arranged across the operating space (121b), both surfaces of the operating space (121b) can become joining areas. Through this, the bonding force between the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) can be maintained at a high level.

[0213] Referring to Fig. 9, the assembly direction for the second knob body (130) to cross the operating space (121b) and be fixed to both sides of the operating space (121b) is illustrated by arrows. That is, the second knob body (130) can be assembled to the first knob body (120) with the 2-1 fastening portion (137a) of the second knob body (130) facing the 1-1 fastening portion (127a). As described above, since the first fastening portion (FM1) has a structure that does not undergo elastic deformation or has a very small amount of elastic deformation, it is necessary to assemble the first fastening portion (FM1) first.

[0214] FIG. 10 sequentially illustrates a process of completely assembling the second knob body (130) to the first knob body (120). First, referring to FIG. 10(A), a worker can move the second knob body (130) in the direction of the arrow toward the first knob. At this time, the 2-1 fastening portion (137a) of the second knob body (130) is oriented toward the 1-1 fastening portion (127a) of the first knob body (120). In this way, the second knob body (130) can be assembled to the first knob body (120) in an oblique direction.

[0215] Referring to Fig. 10(B), the state of the 2-1 fastening part (137a) just before being coupled to the 1-1 fastening part (127a) is illustrated. Since neither the 2-1 fastening part (137a) nor the 1-1 fastening part (127a) undergoes elastic deformation or undergoes very little deformation, it is necessary to fit them obliquely in this manner to form an interlocking state. In other words, the 2-1 fastening part (137a) is first interlocked with the 1-1 fastening part (127a) so that the first fastening part (FM1) can be assembled.

[0216] In this state, the worker can rotate the other end of the second knob body (130), i.e., the 2-2 fastening part (137b), in the direction of the arrow in Fig. 10(C). At this time, with the state in which one end (137a) of the second knob body (130) is inserted into the hooking jaw (127a) as the rotation point, the other end (137b) of the second knob body (130) rotates toward the hooking hook (127b), thereby being caught and fixed on the hooking hook (127b). That is, the first fastening part (FM1) assembled in advance becomes the center of rotation, so that the second knob body (130) can rotate, and thereby the second fastening part (FM2) is assembled. The second fastening part (FM2) can be assembled through elastic deformation as described above.

[0217] In this way, the second knob body (130) can be assembled to the first knob body (120) through rotation. At this time, in the process of rotating the second knob body (130), the surfaces of the second knob body (130) and the first knob body (120) can be naturally guided to rotate through a curved or inclined surface structure. A guide surface (122c, 136a) may be provided on at least one of the surfaces of the second knob body (130) facing each other or the edge of the entrance of the operating space (121b). In the process of the other end of the second knob body (130) rotating and being caught on the hanging hook (127b), the second knob body (130) can be guided by the guide surface (122c, 136a).

[0218] Referring to Fig. 5, the supporter portion (136) of the second knob body (130) is provided with a second guide surface (136a). The second guide surface (136a) can come into contact with the first knob body (120) during the rotation of the second knob body (130). Referring to Fig. 12, in the present embodiment, the second guide surface (136a) comes into contact with the first guide surface (122c) of the first knob body (120) during the rotation of the second knob body (130). That is, when the two guide surfaces (122c, 136a) come into contact with each other, friction is reduced, and the rotational direction of the second knob body (130) can be naturally guided. For reference, Fig. 12 shows a state in which the second guide surface (136a) is guided to the first guide surface (122c) and the rotation of the second knob body (130) is completed. As another example, either the first guide surface (122c) or the second guide surface (136a) may be omitted.

[0219] Fig. 11 illustrates a state in which a lock button (140) constituting the present embodiment is mounted on the first knob body (120). For reference, the second knob body (130) and the weight plate (160) are omitted in Fig. 11. As can be seen, an operating space (121b) is arranged above the knob top plate (122), and a coupling space (121a) is arranged below. The operating portion (143) of the lock button (140) is arranged in the operating space (121b) and moves along the operating space (121b), and the safety pin (150) is linked to the operating portion (143) at a position outside the operating space (121b). In the present embodiment, the safety pin (150) is operated within the coupling space (121a).

[0220] More precisely, with respect to the knob top plate (122) of the first knob body (120), the operation portion (143) of the lock button (140) and the safety pin (150) are arranged on opposite sides. Referring to the drawing, the operation portion (143) is arranged above, and the safety pin (150) is arranged below. Here, the operating space (121b) is formed above, and the coupling space (121a) is formed below. In this way, the operation portion (143) and the safety pin (150) are arranged in a distributed manner along the axial direction, so that the internal space of the narrow knob body (NB) can be effectively utilized. In addition, since the safety pin (150) is arranged at a distant position along the axial direction from the operation portion (143), the peripheral structure of the operation portion (143) can be implemented relatively simply, and it becomes easy to make the size of the operation portion (143) large.

[0221] Referring to the enlarged view of Fig. 11, the guide rib (128) of the first knob body (120) may be provided with a spacer (128a). The spacer (128a) protrudes further in the axial direction from the guide rib (128). The spacer (128a) may protrude further in the axial direction than the bottom surface of the button body (141). The enlarged view of Fig. 12 illustrates that the upper surface (141a') and the lower surface (141b') of the button body (141) are spaced apart from the first coupling surface (122a) of the first knob body (120) and the top surface of the weight plate (160), respectively, by the spacer (128a).

[0222] FIGS. 13 to 19 sequentially illustrate the operations of components constituting the present embodiment. First, FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate a state in which the lock button (140) is in the knob lock position. When the lock button (140) is in the knob lock position, the button operation portion (143) protrudes outward from the operation hole (125). When the lock button (140) is in the knob lock position, the safety pin (150) is axially aligned with the stopper (115) of the base portion (110), so that the axial movement of the safety pin (150) is restricted. In FIG. 14, the first distance (H1) between the safety pin (150) and the stopper (115) is shorter than a distance that is sufficient for the knob assembly (100) to press the drive shaft (71) to activate the operation of the cooking appliance. Drawing symbol L1 indicates the distance between the protruding end (145) of the lock button (140) and the inner surface of the first knob body (120).

[0223] In this state, when the user presses the button operation unit (143) in the direction of the arrow in Fig. 15, the lock button (140) can be inserted into the inside of the knob body (NB). At this time, the user must press the button operation unit (143) while overcoming the elastic force of the elastic member (S). In this way, the lock button (140) can move to the knob release position. In this way, the lock button (140) protruding laterally can be naturally pressed by the user while holding the knob body (NB). Therefore, even if the lock button (140) is added, the operability of the knob assembly (100) is not reduced, and the user can easily operate the cooking appliance.

[0224] Referring to Fig. 16, the safety pin (150) is not axially aligned with the stopper (115) of the base portion (110), but is arranged in a state of being axially misaligned with the stopper (115). Here, the misaligned state means that the safety pin (150) and the stopper (115) do not have positions where they face each other in the axial direction. In this case, the safety pin (150) can move in the axial direction without interference from the stopper (115). In Fig. 16, H2 represents the distance between the safety pin (150) and the base portion (110), and G1 represents the distance between the center of the knob body (NB) and the base portion (110). G1 is the distance at which the knob body (NB) can move in the axial direction. Drawing symbol L2 indicates the distance between the protruding end (145) of the lock button (140) and the inner surface of the first knob body (120), and it can be seen that it is shorter than the previous distance (L1, see FIG. 14).

[0225] The user can hold the grip portion (123) and press the knob body (NB) in the axial direction while pressing the lock button (140). In Fig. 17, the arrow represents the direction in which the knob body (NB) is pressed in the axial direction. In this way, the knob body (NB), the lock button (140), and the weight plate (160) can simultaneously move toward the base portion (110).

[0226] In this way, in the present embodiment, the lock button (140) can be operated in a direction different from the axial movement of the knob body (NB). If the direction in which the lock button (140) is pressed and the direction in which the knob body (NB) is pressed are formed differently, the possibility of the user accidentally operating the knob assembly (100) is reduced.

[0227] More specifically, the button operation part (143) of the lock button (140) can move linearly in the axial direction (first direction, up-down direction in FIG. 16), which is the linear movement direction of the knob body (NB), and in the second direction (left-right direction in FIG. 16) which is different from the rotational direction of the knob body (NB). Accordingly, the possibility of the knob assembly (100) being operated arbitrarily due to a user's mistake or interference with objects around the cooking appliance can be further reduced.

[0228] Referring to Fig. 18, compared to Fig. 16, the knob body (NB), the lock button (140), and the weight plate (160) are shown to have moved closer to the operation panel (30) and the base portion (110). The safety pin (150) can pass the upper end of the stopper (115) and move closer to the base portion (110). At the knob-pressed position, the lock button (140) can be spaced apart from the base portion (110) in the axial direction by a third distance (H3). In Fig. 18, G2 represents the distance between the center of the knob body (NB) and the base portion (110), and it can be confirmed that this distance is also reduced compared to the previous distance (G1, see Fig. 16).

[0229] When the knob body (NB), the lock button (140), and the weight plate (160) move in the axial direction in this way, the second knob body (130) that fixes the driving shaft (71) through the shaft coupling part (131) moves the driving shaft (71) together in the axial direction. The driving shaft (71) that moves in the axial direction can drive the heating drive unit (70) of the cooking device. Here, the driving of the heating drive unit (70) includes various operations such as turning the cooking device on / off and selecting a cooking mode of the cooking device.

[0230] When the driving shaft (71) moves in the axial direction by a reference distance, the driving shaft (71) can rotate. In the present embodiment, the heating drive unit (70) restricts the driving shaft (71) to rotate only when it moves in the axial direction by a reference distance. Fig. 19 shows the knob body (NB) rotated clockwise, and the driving shaft (71) can also rotate clockwise together with the knob body (NB). When the knob body (NB) rotates in this way, the operation button (140) can move to the third position. At this time, when the driving shaft (71) is rotated together with the knob body (NB), functions such as controlling the heat power of the cooking appliance, the number of heating devices (28) to be driven, and selecting a cooking mode can be implemented.

[0231] In this way, in the present embodiment, the operation of the lock button (140) precedes the operation of the subsequent knob body (NB). The axial movement and rotation of the knob body (NB) can be achieved only when the lock button (140) moves to the knob release position, and in the process, the drive shaft (71) dependent on the knob body (NB) can also be operated.

[0232] Next, with reference to FIGS. 20 to 25, the process of the lock button (140) being restrained by the button holder (170) will be examined. For reference, in FIGS. 20 to 25, the first knob body (120) and the weight plate (160) are omitted to clearly show the button holder (170).

[0233] The user can first separate the entire knob assembly (100) from the operation panel (30). When the knob assembly (100) is pulled axially from the operation panel (30), the knob assembly (100) and the drive shaft (71) are separated from each other, and the knob assembly (100) is detached from the operation panel (30). This appearance is illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0234] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, the lock button (140) is in the knob lock position, and the button holder (170) is in the button release position. The interference portion (175) of the button holder (170) is positioned downward with respect to FIG. 21. That is, the interference portion (175) of the button holder (170) is not yet positioned in the movement path of the lock button (140). At this time, the position fixing portion (178) of the interference portion (175) can be maintained in a fixed state by being caught on the first relative fixing portion (138) of the second knob body (130).

[0235] In this state, the user can press the lock button (140) of the separated knob assembly (100) inwardly (in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 22) to move the lock button (140) to the knob release position. At this time, the button body (141) moves inwardly of the avoidance part (133'). Referring to FIG. 23, the button stopper (147) of the lock button (140) comes into contact with the surface of the second knob body (130), so that the lock button (140) can no longer move. However, in this state, when the user removes the external force pressing the lock button (140), the lock button (140) can move back to the knob lock position by the elastic member (S).

[0236] Referring to FIGS. 24 and 25, the lock button (140) moves in a direction toward the knob release position (to the left based on the drawing), so that an empty space is formed between the button body (141) of the lock button (140) and the first knob body (120). This empty space is the space occupied by the lock button (140), and can be said to be a part of the movement path of the lock button (140).

[0237] The user can rotate the button holder (170) while pressing the lock button (140). More precisely, the user can rotate the button holder (170) in the direction of the arrows in FIGS. 24 and 25 while pressing the lock button (140). At this time, the user can hold and fix the first knob body (120) with the other hand and rotate the holder handle (174).

[0238] In this way, the interference part (175) fills the empty space between the button body (141) of the lock button (140) and the first knob body (120). That is, the interference part (175) moves to the button restraining position. When moved to the button restraining position, the button holder (170) interferes with the button body (141) of the lock button (140), thereby restraining the lock button (140) from moving to the knob locking position.

[0239] In this way, when the button holder (170) rotates with a center of rotation concentric with the driving shaft (71) and moves to the knob locking position, the elastic member (S), the locking button (140), and the button holder (170) can be aligned in the radial direction of the knob body (NB).

[0240] Looking more closely, the user can rotate the button holder (170) while overcoming the elastic force of the elastic member (S) and moving the button holder (170) forward (leftward with reference to FIG. 25). When the position fixing portion (178) of the interference portion (175) reaches the position where the second relative fixing portion (148) of the lock button (140) is formed, the second relative fixing portion (148) is naturally fitted into the position fixing portion (178), so that the position of the button holder (170) can be fixed.

[0241] In this state, when the user removes the force pushing the button holder (170), the lock button (140) can be brought into close contact with the surface of the button holder (170) by the elastic force of the elastic member (S). More precisely, the position fixing part (178) of the button holder (170) is brought into close contact with the second relative fixing part (148) of the lock button (140). Accordingly, the button holder (170) can be maintained in a state in which it has been moved to the button restraint position.

[0242] That is, when the button holder (170) is positioned at the button restraint position, the interference portion (175) of the button holder (170) contacts the button body (141) and supports the lock button (140). In this way, even if the elastic member (S) pushes the lock button (140) in the direction of the knob lock position (rightward with reference to FIG. 25), the lock button (140) does not move and can be maintained in the knob release position by the button holder (170).

[0243] In this state, when the user re-attaches the knob assembly (100) to the drive shaft (71), the knob assembly (100) can be placed in front of the base portion (110). At this time, since the lock button (140) is in a pressed state, i.e., moved to the knob release position and is thus restrained, the user does not need to press the lock button (140) to operate the cooking appliance. That is, the lock button (140) operation (step 1) is omitted, and the knob assembly (100) can be operated in a push-and-turn manner. The user can activate the lock button (140) only when necessary by operating the button holder (170), thereby increasing the convenience of the knob assembly (100).

[0244] Meanwhile, unlike the above operation sequence, the user may rotate only the button holder (170) without pressing the lock button (140). Even if the user rotates only the button holder (170) without pressing the lock button (140), the interference part (175) may press the lock button (140) from the knob-locked position to the knob-released position when the button holder (170) rotates.

[0245] At this time, as previously described, the protruding length of the interference portion (175) increases in the direction opposite to the direction in which the button holder (170) rotates toward the button restraint position (counterclockwise in FIG. 25). Accordingly, when the button holder (170) is rotated, the force to overcome the elastic force of the elastic member (S) is distributed, so that the user can move the lock button (140) together in the process of rotating the button holder (170) without applying a large force.

[0246] FIG. 26 illustrates a second embodiment of a knob assembly (100) according to the present invention. Descriptions of structures identical to those of the previously described embodiments will be omitted. In particular, the present embodiment will focus on the assembly structure between the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) constituting the knob assembly (100).

[0247] A first fastening portion (FM1) and a second fastening portion (FM2) are provided between the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130). The first fastening portion (FM1) can wrap and fix the second-first fastening portion (137a) formed at one end of the second knob body (130). The second fastening portion (FM2) can hook and fix a part of the second knob body (130). In this embodiment, as in the previous embodiment, the second knob body (130) can be assembled to the first knob body (120) by rotation.

[0248] At this time, the second fastening part (FM2) includes a second-first fastening part (137a) of a cantilever hook structure provided in the first knob body (120), and a second-second fastening part (137b) of a hanging hole structure provided in the second knob body (130). The second-second fastening part (137b) may be formed by penetrating a part of the second knob body (130) in the axial direction, rather than the other end of the second knob body (130). Compared to the previous embodiment, the first fastening part (FM1) and the second fastening part (FM2) are arranged on opposite sides with respect to the shaft coupling part (131), but the second fastening part (FM2) is arranged offset in the central direction closer to the shaft coupling part (131).

[0249] FIG. 27 illustrates a third embodiment of a knob assembly (100) according to the present invention. Descriptions of structures identical to those of the previously described embodiments will be omitted. In particular, the present embodiment will focus on the assembly structure between the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) constituting the knob assembly (100).

[0250] A first fastening portion (FM1) and a second fastening portion (FM2) are provided between the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130). The first fastening portion (FM1) can wrap and fix the second-first fastening portion (137a) formed at one end of the second knob body (130). The second fastening portion (FM2) can hook and fix a part of the second knob body (130). In this embodiment, as in the previous embodiment, the second knob body (130) can be assembled to the first knob body (120) by rotation.

[0251] The first fastening portion (FM1) and the second fastening portion (FM2) are arranged on opposite sides with respect to the shaft coupling portion (131). This structure is similar to the previous embodiments, but the difference from the previous embodiments is that both the first fastening portion (FM1) and the second fastening portion (FM2) are arranged on the second fastening surface (122b) rather than the first coupling surface (122a). Specifically, with reference to FIG. 27, the first fastening portion (FM1) and the second fastening portion (FM2) are arranged in the 12 o'clock direction and the 6 o'clock direction, respectively. Therefore, the rotation direction when assembling the second knob body (130) to the first knob body (120) is also formed differently from the previous one.

[0252] A fourth embodiment of a knob assembly (100) according to the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 28 to 34. Descriptions of structures identical to those of the previously described embodiments will be omitted. In particular, the present embodiment will focus on the assembly structure between the first knob body (120) and the second knob body (130) constituting the knob assembly (100).

[0253] Referring to FIGS. 29 and 30, the second knob body (130) is assembled to the first knob body (120) through the knob fastening member (B3). A second knob fastening hole (1138) through which the knob fastening member (B3) passes is formed in the second knob body (130), and a first knob fastening hole (1128) into which the knob fastening member (B3) is assembled is formed in the first knob body (120). The knob fastening member (B3) can be assembled to the first knob fastening hole (1128) by passing through the knob fastening member (B3). Reference numeral 1168 denotes a head mounting groove in which the head portion of the knob fastening member (B3) is mounted, and the head mounting groove (1168) can be sunken in the surface of the weight plate (160).

[0254] Referring to Fig. 31, the knob fastener (B3) is illustrated as assembling the second knob body (130) to the first knob body (120). As can be seen, the first knob fastening hole (1128) is positioned inside the second knob fastening hole (1138), the knob fastening hole is assembled to the first knob fastening hole (1128), and the head of the knob fastening member (B3) is caught on the edge of the second knob fastening hole (1138).

[0255] Meanwhile, the weight plate (160) is assembled to the second knob body (130) through the second fastener (B2). The second fastener (B2) is assembled in the same direction as the knob fastener (B3), but is spaced apart from each other. In the present embodiment, the second fastener (B2) is longer in the axial length than the knob fastener (B3) and is inserted further into the operating space (121b).

[0256] Referring to FIGS. 32 to 34, the lock button (140) and the safety pin (150) structure are illustrated. First, referring to FIGS. 32 and 33, the lock button (140) may be provided with an elastic support portion (145). The elastic support portion (145) supports one end of the elastic member (S). The elastic support portions (145) are provided on each side of the operating portion (143) to support one end of each of the pair of elastic members (S). The elastic support portions (145) may protrude further toward the center of the internal space (121a) than the operating portion (143). The surface of the elastic support portions (145) may be formed in a flat structure.

[0257] A pin connection portion (142) may be provided at the lower portion of the button body (141). The pin connection portion (142) is a portion for connection with a safety pin (150). The safety pin (150) may be connected to the pin connection portion (142). The pin block (152) provided on the safety pin (150) may be slidably connected to the pin connection portion (142) along a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. In this way, in the present embodiment, the safety pin (150) may be configured as a separate object from the lock button (140) and may be assembled to the lock button (140). Fig. 34 illustrates a state in which the safety pin (150) is separated from the lock button (140).

[0258] As another example, the pin block (152) of the safety pin (150) may be bonded to the pin connecting portion (142). As another example, the pin block (152) of the safety pin (150) may be screw-fastened to the pin connecting portion (142).

[0259] Referring to FIGS. 33 and 34, the safety pin (150) may protrude further in the axial direction toward the base portion (110, see FIG. 3) than the lock button (140). The pin portion (155) of the safety pin (150) may have a substantially cantilevered shape. In the first position (knob locking position), the pin portion (155) substantially interferes with the base portion (110).

[0260] The safety pin (150) can move along the lock button (140) in conjunction with the lock button (140). The pin portion (155) of the safety pin (150) protrudes in the first direction, and the protruding pin portion (155) can be moved linearly between the first position and the second position by the lock button (140).

[0261] The above description is merely an illustrative illustration of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the essential characteristics of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are intended to illustrate, rather than limit, the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention is not limited by these embodiments. The scope of protection of the present invention should be interpreted by the following claims, and all technical ideas within a scope equivalent thereto should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the rights of the present invention.

Claims

1. A first knob body that rotates around a drive shaft protruding from the operation panel; A second knob body coupled to the first knob body and defining an operating space together with the first knob body; and A lock button having an operating part exposed to the outside of the above-mentioned operating space and having a safety pin protruding in the axial direction of the above-mentioned driving shaft; The above operating part moves along the operating space, and the safety pin is linked to the operating part at a position outside the operating space, A knob assembly having a knob lock position that restricts axial movement of the first knob body and the second knob body, and a knob release position that allows axial movement of the safety pin.

2. In claim 1, the first knob body A knob ring defining a joint space within which the second knob body is placed; A grip portion that protrudes axially from the knob ring, defines the operating space inside, and has an operating hole formed to expose the operating portion; and including a knob top plate connecting the knob ring and the grip portion; A knob assembly in which the operating part and the safety pin are positioned on opposite sides with respect to the knob top plate.

3. In claim 1, the first knob body A catch jaw that is inserted and engaged with one end of the above second knob body; and A knob assembly including a hanging hook that is coupled by rotating the other end of the second knob body.

4. In claim 3, a knob assembly in which one end of the second knob body is engaged with the hooking jaw as a rotation point, and the other end of the second knob body is rotated toward the hooking hook so as to be caught and fixed on the hooking hook.

5. In claim 3, the knob assembly in which the catch jaw and the catch hook are respectively positioned on opposite sides with the operating space therebetween.

6. In claim 3, a guide surface is provided on at least one of the surfaces of the second knob bodies facing each other or the entrance edge of the operating space, A knob assembly in which the second knob body is guided on the guide surface during the process in which the other end of the second knob body rotates and is caught on the hanging hook.

7. In claim 1, the first knob body has a first engagement surface and a second engagement surface that are spaced apart from each other with the operating space therebetween, The above second knob body A fastening plate that is in close contact with the first bonding surface; and A body plate connected to the above-mentioned fastening plate and in close contact with the second bonding surface; The above fastening plate is a knob assembly extending from one end of the body plate across the operating space.

8. In claim 7, the fastening plates are a knob assembly arranged on both sides of the driving shaft with the driving shaft interposed therebetween.

9. In claim 1, the first knob body has a first engagement surface and a second engagement surface spaced apart from each other with the operating space therebetween, The above second knob body A 2-1 fastening part fastened to a 1-1 fastening part provided on the first bonding surface; and A knob assembly including a second-second fastening portion fastened to a first-second fastening portion provided on the second bonding surface.

10. In claim 9, a first separation distance is formed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction between one end of the 1-1 fastening portion and one end of the 1-2 fastening portion facing each other, A second separation distance is formed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction between the ends of the second-first fastening portion and the second-second fastening portion facing opposite to each other. A knob assembly wherein the second separation distance is longer than the first separation distance.

11. In claim 1, the second knob body is provided with a shaft coupling portion coupled to the driving shaft, A knob assembly in which the above-mentioned shaft coupling portion is arranged to be aligned with the above-mentioned operating space and along the above-mentioned axial direction.

12. In claim 1, the lock button has an inner surface of the button facing the outer surface of the shaft coupling portion, A knob assembly having a recessed shape along the movement direction of the lock button so that the inner surface of the button corresponds to the outer surface of the shaft coupling portion.

13. In claim 1, further comprising a weight plate coupled in the axial direction to the second knob body, The above lock button A button body positioned outside the above-mentioned bonding space; The operating part connected to the above button body and moving along the operating space; and including the safety pin arranged on the above button body; The above button body is a knob assembly disposed between the weight plate and the first knob body.

14. In claim 1, the first knob body or the weight plate has a spacer protruding toward the opposite side, The above spacer is positioned to surround the periphery of the button body, A knob assembly wherein the axial height of the spacer is equal to or greater than the axial thickness of the button body.

15. In claim 1, a weight plate is further included that is axially coupled to the second knob body, A knob assembly in which the weight plate is arranged to overlap the second knob body and the lock button in the axial direction.

16. In claim 15, a pin passage hole is formed in the weight plate to pass the safety pin in the axial direction, A knob assembly in which the safety pin passes through the pin passage hole and moves between the knob locked position and the knob released position.

17. In claim 1, the first knob body has a first engagement surface and a second engagement surface that are spaced apart from each other with the operating space therebetween, The second knob body is a knob assembly that is coupled to the first coupling surface or the second coupling surface by a fastener.

18. In claim 17, the second knob body A fastening plate arranged to cross the above-mentioned operating space and in close contact with the first bonding surface; and a body plate connected to the above-mentioned fastening plate and in close contact with the second bonding surface; The above fastener is a knob assembly that passes through the body plate and is assembled to the second joining surface.

19. A first knob body having a locking jaw and a locking hook spaced apart from each other and rotating around a drive shaft protruding from the operation panel; A second knob body coupled to the first knob body and defining an operating space together with the first knob body; and A lock button having an operating part that moves along the operating space and a safety pin that protrudes in the axial direction of the driving shaft at a position outside the operating space; The safety pin has a knob lock position that restricts axial movement of the first knob body and the second knob body, and a knob release position that allows axial movement. A knob assembly in which one end of the second knob body is engaged with the hooking jaw as a rotation point, and the other end of the second knob body rotates to be caught and fixed on the hooking hook.

20. Heating device; and A cooking appliance comprising a knob assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 19 for operating the heating device.

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