Cooking apparatus

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cooking apparatus. According to the present invention, a camera mounting part may be provided on an upper portion of a housing. The camera mounting part may protrude from a cooking chamber in the direction toward an electrical component chamber. A camera module may be mounted to the camera mounting part and obtain an image of the cooking chamber. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to secure an appropriate angle of view for capturing an image while minimizing an additional structure for mounting a camera module.

Description

Cooking appliances

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

[0002] A cooking appliance has a storage space for food preparation. Furthermore, the cooking appliance may be equipped with a door for opening and closing the storage space. In some cases, such a cooking appliance may be equipped with two or more storage spaces and two or more doors for opening and closing each of the storage spaces.

[0003] Cooking appliance doors are typically opaque. Therefore, when the door is closed, it's difficult for the user to see what's inside. Therefore, opening the door is essential to check the contents. However, opening the door allows heat and moisture from the cooking chamber to escape, resulting in unnecessary energy loss.

[0004] To address this, some cookware doors are equipped with viewing windows. This allows the user to view the food being cooked through the window. However, even with a viewing window, if the interior of the cookware is dark, it can be difficult to clearly observe the food being cooked through the window.

[0005] Accordingly, cooking appliances are increasingly equipped with doors equipped with viewing windows, and some even feature cameras installed to illuminate the interior of the appliance. In these cases, even when the door is closed, the camera can capture images or videos of the interior of the appliance, providing the user with the captured images or videos.

[0006] Installing a camera in a cooking appliance requires ensuring the camera is not directly exposed to the cooking chamber, while still ensuring an appropriate angle of view. This requires separate structures for camera installation, which not only complicates the cooking appliance's design but also increases manufacturing costs.

[0007] Furthermore, the cooking appliance's storage space is heated, resulting in a very high temperature environment. The temperature in the electrical compartment, where the heating components for heating the storage space are located, can also be very high. Therefore, even if the camera is placed in the electrical compartment, avoiding the storage space, the heat from the heating components can reduce the camera's durability.

[0008] In particular, moisture generated during the cooking process can be transferred to the upper electrical compartment, potentially damaging the camera. Cameras, as electronic components, are highly vulnerable to high temperatures and moisture, making it crucial to enhance the durability of cameras installed in cooking appliances.

[0009] Meanwhile, in addition to heat sources like heaters, cooking appliances may also incorporate a microwave function utilizing a magnetron. When implementing a microwave function, it's necessary to ensure that no metal is exposed inside the cooking chamber to prevent electric arcs caused by electromagnetic waves. Consequently, the use of fasteners like screws for camera installation is restricted, making it difficult to securely install the camera.

[0010] 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 secure an appropriate angle of view for shooting while minimizing the addition of a structure for mounting the camera module by mounting a camera module on a camera mounting portion protruding toward the electric chamber of a cooking appliance.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to increase the durability of the camera module by arranging the window module in a recessed portion opposite the camera mounting portion.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to securely fix a camera module and a window module while minimizing the exposure of fasteners such as screws inside a cooking chamber.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to block heat and moisture transmitted to the camera module through a window sealing portion surrounding the window module.

[0014] According to a feature of the present invention to achieve the above-described purpose, the present invention may include a camera mounting portion provided on the upper portion of the housing. The camera mounting portion may protrude from the cooking chamber toward the electrical compartment. A camera module may be mounted on the camera mounting portion to capture images of the cooking chamber. Accordingly, an appropriate angle of view for shooting can be secured while minimizing additional structures for mounting the camera module.

[0015] The camera mounting portion may protrude in the direction of the main chamber, and a window module may be placed on the surface of the relatively sunken cooking chamber. The window module may transmit light from the cooking chamber toward the camera module between the camera module and the cooking chamber.

[0016] The above camera module can be coupled to the upper portion of the camera mounting portion in a first direction. The above window module can be coupled to the lower portion of the camera mounting portion in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0017] The above camera mounting portion may include a mounting base protruding from the upper portion of the housing toward the electrical compartment, and a mounting protrusion further protruding from the mounting base toward the electrical compartment. A photographing hole may be opened in the mounting protrusion. In this case, the camera sensor of the camera module may be positioned in the camera mounting portion so as to face the photographing hole.

[0018] The above-mentioned mounting portion may be formed with an inclined surface inclined toward the center of the cooking chamber. The above-mentioned shooting hole may be opened on the inclined surface.

[0019] The above-mentioned mounting portion may be provided with a plurality of inclined surfaces having different inclination angles. Among the plurality of inclined surfaces, the inclined surface on which the photographing hole is formed may have a greater inclination angle than the remaining inclined surfaces.

[0020] A camera bracket may be placed on the above camera mounting portion. The camera module may be coupled to the camera bracket.

[0021] The above camera bracket may include a mounting member supported by the camera mounting member and a bracket body connected to the mounting member. The bracket body may be positioned on an upper portion of a mounting protrusion of the camera mounting member. The camera module may be coupled to the bracket body. At this time, the camera sensor of the camera module may be positioned to face a photographing hole formed in the mounting protrusion.

[0022] A pair of the above-described mounting ends may be arranged on the above-described camera bracket. The above-described mounting protrusion may be arranged between the pair of the above-described mounting ends.

[0023] The above camera module may include a camera casing having an open camera hole and a camera substrate housed in the camera casing. A camera sensor may be coupled to the camera substrate, and the camera sensor may be positioned to face the camera hole.

[0024] The above camera casing may include a storage body having a storage space in which the camera substrate is stored, and a supporter portion coupled to the camera mounting portion.

[0025] The above storage body and the above supporter portion may be formed to have different angles with respect to the camera mounting portion.

[0026] A camera bracket may be coupled to the above camera mounting portion. The support portion may be coupled to the camera bracket. The storage body may extend in an inclined direction from the support portion.

[0027] The above camera casing may be provided with a fixing hook along an edge of the camera casing. The fixing hook may hook onto a surface of the camera substrate to fix the camera substrate to the camera casing.

[0028] The above storage body may have an alignment protrusion protruding therefrom. An alignment hole into which the alignment protrusion is fitted may be formed in the above camera substrate. The alignment protrusion may be provided with a step structure that maintains a distance between the camera sensor and the camera hole.

[0029] A camera bracket may be coupled to the above camera mounting portion. An assembly protrusion and a first bracket hole may be formed between the camera casing and the camera bracket to be coupled to each other.

[0030] The camera casing has a protruding rib protruding in the direction of the camera mounting portion, and the protruding rib can maintain a distance between the surface of the camera mounting portion and the camera sensor.

[0031] The above camera casing may be provided with a sensor cover that transmits light in the direction of the camera sensor. The sensor cover may be positioned between the photographing hole of the camera mounting portion and the camera sensor.

[0032] The window module may be coupled to the lower portion of the camera mounting portion by a first fastener that is coupled in a direction from the cooking chamber toward the electrical compartment. The camera module may be coupled to the upper portion of the camera mounting portion by a second fastener that is assembled in a direction from the electrical compartment toward the cooking chamber.

[0033] A frame fastening portion may protrude from the edge of the above-mentioned camera mounting portion in a direction in which the width of the above-mentioned camera mounting portion increases. A window frame provided in the above-mentioned window module may be provided with a frame extension portion that is coupled to the frame fastening portion. The frame extension portion may protrude in a direction away from the edge of the above-mentioned window frame.

[0034] The window module may be assembled to the camera mounting portion and include a window frame having a window hole formed in the center. A window panel may be arranged in the window hole to transmit light from the cooking chamber to the camera module. The periphery of the window panel may be surrounded by a window sealing member. The window sealing member may seal between the window panel and the window frame.

[0035] The above-mentioned battle room may be provided with an air intake opening open to the outside. The camera mounting unit may be positioned facing the air intake opening.

[0036] The window frame may include a first frame rib protruding around the edge of the window hole, and a second frame rib protruding in the same direction as the first frame rib while surrounding the first frame rib. At this time, a sealing receiving groove in which the window sealing portion is received may be formed between the first frame rib and the second frame rib.

[0037] The camera mounting portion may be recessed from the surface of the cooking chamber toward the main chamber. The camera module may be positioned above the camera mounting portion. The window module may be positioned below the camera mounting portion.

[0038] The cooking appliance according to the present invention as discussed above has the following effects.

[0039] In the present invention, a camera mounting portion may be provided on the upper portion of the housing forming the cooking chamber. The camera mounting portion protrudes from the cooking chamber toward the main chamber, and a camera module may be positioned on this protruding portion. Since the camera mounting portion is formed integrally with the upper portion of the housing, additional structures for mounting the camera module can be minimized, while also ensuring an appropriate angle of view for shooting.

[0040] In addition, in the present invention, a camera module may be placed on the upper portion of the camera mounting portion, while a window module may be placed on the lower portion of the camera mounting portion. The window module can enhance the durability of the camera module by preventing the camera module from being directly exposed to the cooking chamber.

[0041] In particular, since the present invention can mount not only a camera module but also a window module using a single camera mounting portion, the number of parts required to install the camera module and the window module can be minimized, and the structure of the cooking appliance can be simplified.

[0042] Additionally, the camera mounting portion of the present invention may have a recessed structure when viewed from the cooking chamber. Accordingly, even if a window module is positioned below the camera mounting portion, the window module may not protrude toward the cooking chamber, and may form the surface of the cooking chamber. This prevents a reduction in the cooking chamber volume and provides a unified aesthetic to the cooking appliance.

[0043] In addition, in the present invention, a camera bracket may be attached to the camera mounting portion, and a camera module may be placed on the camera bracket. This not only facilitates and secures the mounting of the camera module, but also enhances the durability of the camera module by blocking heat conduction between the upper surface (top plate) of the housing and the camera module.

[0044] Furthermore, in the present invention, the camera module is positioned in a camera mounting portion protruding upward from the main chamber. Therefore, even if a fastener (screw, etc.) is used to secure the camera module, the fastener does not protrude into the cooking chamber. Therefore, there is an advantage in that the camera module can be securely secured while still providing microwave oven functionality to the cooking appliance.

[0045] Additionally, in the present invention, the camera module and window module can be fastened to the camera mounting portion in opposite directions. This reduces the area of ​​the window module fastening hole (screw) exposed toward the cooking chamber, thereby enhancing the stability and aesthetic appeal of the cooking appliance.

[0046] In addition, in the present invention, the camera mounting portion has a protruding mounting protrusion, and the camera module can capture images of the kitchen through a shooting hole opened in an inclined direction on the mounting protrusion. Even without the addition of a separate component, the inclined structure formed in the camera mounting portion can naturally provide the camera module with an optimal angle of view.

[0047] In addition, the camera casing constituting the camera module of the present invention may be connected in an inclined direction with a portion for mounting (support portion) and a portion for storing the camera sensor (storage body). In this case, since the portion for storing the camera sensor has an inclined structure toward the center of the cooking chamber, the installation angle of the camera module can be set simply by installing the camera module in the camera mounting portion. Accordingly, the convenience of installing the camera module can also be improved.

[0048] Additionally, in the present invention, the window sealing portion surrounding the window module can block the gap connecting the cooking chamber to the camera module. As such, the window sealing portion blocks heat and moisture from being transmitted to the camera module, thereby further enhancing the durability of the camera module.

[0049] In addition, the window sealing portion can be installed on the window frame constituting the window module, and in particular, the frame ribs provided on the window frame can wrap around the window sealing portion, thereby facilitating installation of the window sealing portion. In this case, since three different sides of the window sealing portion are wrapped by the frame ribs and the camera mounting portion, the sealing effect of the window sealing portion can be further enhanced.

[0050] Additionally, the camera mounting portion of the present invention can be positioned facing the air intake of the main body. This allows outside air to pass through the camera module, removing moisture from the module. This removal of moisture not only enhances the durability of the camera module, but also prevents condensation on the camera sensor, thereby improving the quality of images captured by the camera module.

[0051] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a cooking appliance according to the present invention.

[0052] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the components constituting an example of a cooking appliance according to the present invention in an exploded manner.

[0053] Figure 3 is a plan view showing the configuration of a battle room with the outer case constituting one embodiment of the present invention removed.

[0054] Figure 4 is a plan view showing the configuration of a battle room with the outer case and some parts constituting one embodiment of the present invention removed.

[0055] Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the inner case with the outer case constituting one embodiment of the present invention removed.

[0056] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the inner case from a different angle than FIG. 5, with the outer case constituting one embodiment of the present invention removed.

[0057] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing an upper plate, an insulating cover, and an insulating member disposed therebetween, which constitute one embodiment of the present invention, in an exploded state.

[0058] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII' of Fig. 4.

[0059] Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing the structure of an upper plate constituting one embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing the interior of a battle room constituting one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing the interior of a battle room constituting one embodiment of the present invention in cross-section.

[0062] Fig. 12 is a plan view showing a camera module arranged in a battle room constituting an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Fig. 13 is an enlarged bottom view showing a window module mounted on a camera mounting unit constituting an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Fig. 14 is an enlarged perspective view showing a camera module mounted on a camera mounting unit constituting an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Fig. 15 is a perspective view showing a mounting bracket arranged on a camera mounting portion constituting an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Fig. 16 is an enlarged perspective view showing a camera module mounted on a camera mounting unit constituting another embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing the angle of view of a camera module mounted on a camera mounting unit constituting an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a camera module and a window module mounted on a camera mounting portion constituting an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Fig. 19 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module and a window module mounted on a camera mounting unit constituting an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Fig. 20 is a perspective view showing an exploded view of a camera module and a mounting bracket constituting an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXI-XXI' of Fig. 20.

[0072] Fig. 22 is a perspective view showing the structure of a window module constituting one embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Fig. 23 is a perspective view showing the window panel and window sealing portion of a window module constituting an embodiment of the present invention in an exploded state.

[0074] 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.

[0075] The cooking appliance of the present invention is for cooking food (hereinafter referred to as "food") using one or more heat sources. The plurality of heat sources may be distributed and individually arranged in the cooking appliance, and may be composed of different types of heat sources.

[0076] When heat sources are used in this way, not only the temperature inside the cooking chamber (S1) but also the temperature of the cavity surrounding the cooking chamber (S1) is formed high. If the image acquisition device (200, see FIG. 3) is placed in a cooking appliance having such a high temperature, the durability of the image acquisition device (200) may decrease due to the high temperature environment. In addition, moisture generated during the cooking process may be transferred to the image acquisition device (200), which may decrease the durability of the image acquisition device (200). Therefore, a structure for protecting the image acquisition device (200) from heat and moisture needs to be implemented in the cooking appliance. In the present embodiment, the image acquisition device (200) includes a camera module (CM) and a window module (WM). Hereinafter, the cooking appliance will be described with a focus on the structure related to the installation structure of the image acquisition device (200).

[0077] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a cooking appliance according to the present invention. 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 a door (15) positioned at the front. A housing (50), which will be described below, may be positioned inside the outer body (10).

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the outer body (10) may include a top cover (11), a front cover (12), and a side cover (13). A cover penetration hole (11a) may be formed in the top cover (11). Through the cover penetration hole (11a), heat-generating components (HP) to be described below may be exposed. The cover penetration hole (11a) may serve to prevent interference between some tall components and the top cover (11) in addition to the function of heat dissipation.

[0079] The front cover (12) is provided in front of the upper cover (11). The front cover (12) is positioned at the rear of the front panel (18). The front cover (12) may be positioned on the upper portion of the front frame (40) to be described below. The front cover (12) may, together with the upper cover (11), form the upper surface of the electrical compartment (S2). The cross-section of the front cover (12) may be approximately in the shape of the letter "ㄱ". The front cover (12) may also be viewed as a part of the upper cover (11).

[0080] A door (15) may be provided at the front of the outer body (10). The door (15) may shield the cooking chamber (S1). The door (15) 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 door (15) may be operated in a side swing manner in which it opens sideways. In the present embodiment, the door (15) is configured as one, but as another example, the door (15) may be configured as an upper door (15) and a lower door (15). Reference numeral 16 of the drawing denotes a viewing portion, through which the user can observe the inside of the cooking chamber (S1). Reference numeral 17, which is not described, denotes a handle for opening and closing the door (15).

[0081] A front panel (18) is arranged at the front of the outer body (10). The front panel (18) may form the front of the cooking appliance together with the door (15). The front panel (18) may be arranged on the upper portion of the door (15). A display unit (19) is provided on the front panel (18) to display information about the cooking appliance. The display unit (19) 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 (19) may be a type of operating unit. As another example, the display unit (19) may be omitted, and an input unit such as a dial, a switch, a mechanical or electronic button, etc. may be provided on the front panel (18).

[0082] In this embodiment, air is introduced into and discharged from the cooking appliance. The outside air of the cooking appliance (hereinafter referred to as "outside air") can be introduced into the inside of the cooking appliance, and the inside air of the cooking appliance (hereinafter referred to as "inside air") can be discharged back to the outside of the cooking appliance. Referring to Fig. 1, the path through which outside air is introduced into the inside of the cooking appliance is indicated by arrow ①, and the path through which inside air is discharged to the outside of the cooking appliance is indicated by arrow ②.

[0083] As can be seen here, outside air can be introduced into the first gap (G1) between the front panel (18) and the door (15). Inside air can be discharged into the second gap (G2) between the lower frame (14) disposed at the lower portion of the door (15) and the door (15). An upper vent hole (43) of the front frame (40), which will be described below, can be disposed at the rear of the first gap (G1). A lower vent hole (44) of the front frame (40), which will be described below, can be disposed at the rear of the second gap (G2). As another example, the lower frame (14) may be omitted, and the second gap (G2) may be formed at the lower portion of the door (15).

[0084] Referring to Fig. 2, a cooking chamber (S1) is formed inside the cooking appliance. The cooking chamber (S1) can be opened and closed by the door (15). The cooking chamber (S1) can be defined by a housing (50). The housing (50) can surround the remaining portion of the cooking chamber (S1) except for the front.

[0085] For reference, the "front" here refers to the direction facing the user when the user is positioned in front of the cooking appliance. Referring to Fig. 1, the X-axis direction can be the front. The Y-axis direction is the left-right width direction of the cooking appliance. The Z-axis direction is the vertical width direction, which is the height direction of the cooking appliance. The following explanation will be based on these directions.

[0086] A lower frame (20) is provided at the bottom of the housing (50). The lower frame (20) can surround the bottom surface of the housing (50). The lower frame (20) is coupled to the side cover (13) of the outer body (10). The lower frame (20) can be viewed as a part of the outer body (10). A hinge device (25) for opening the door (15) can be arranged on the lower frame (20).

[0087] A rear frame (30) is provided at the rear of the housing (50). The rear frame (30) can surround the rear of the housing (50). The rear frame (30) is coupled to the outer body (10). The rear frame (30) can also be viewed as a part of the outer body (10). The rear frame (30) is provided with a rear cover (31) that is recessed toward the rear. A convection installation space (32) is provided in the recessed portion of the rear cover (31).

[0088] A convection heater may be placed in the convection installation space (32). The convection heater includes a convection housing (35) and a convection heating unit (36) provided in the convection housing (35). The convection heating unit (36) may be a sheath heater in which the protection tube of the heating wire is made of metal. Alternatively, the convection heating unit (36) may be a carbon heater, ceramic heater, or halogen heater in which a filament is sealed inside a tube made of a transparent or translucent material.

[0089] A convection motor (not shown) may be mounted on the convection housing (35). The convection motor may rotate a convection fan (37) inside the convection housing (35). When the convection fan (37) rotates by the convection motor, the heat of the convection heating unit (36) may convect within the cooking chamber (S1) to heat food.

[0090] A front frame (40) is provided at the front of the housing (50). The front frame (40) may be arranged around the edge of the entrance to the cooking chamber (S1). The front frame (40) may be arranged between the housing (50) and the door (15). The front side (41) of the front frame (40) may face the door (15). The front frame (40) may be coupled to the outer body (10) via side brackets (45) arranged on both sides of the front frame (40). As another example, the front frame (40) may be directly connected to the housing (50). Reference numeral 42 shows a viewing window formed through the center of the front frame (40). The viewing window (42) is arranged at the rear of the viewing portion (16) of the door (15) described above.

[0091] The front frame (40) is formed with an upper vent hole (43) and a lower vent hole (44). The upper vent hole (43) can transmit outside air to the electrical room (S2). The lower vent hole (44) can discharge inside air of the lower space to the outside. As another example, at least one of the upper vent hole (43) or the lower vent hole (44) may be omitted. Instead of the upper vent hole (43) or the lower vent hole (44), the front frame (40) may be formed in a form in which a portion thereof is omitted or is sunken in toward the center of the viewing window (42).

[0092] At this time, referring to FIG. 5, the upper vent hole (43) can be divided into a first upper vent hole (43A) and a second upper vent hole (43B). When viewed from the front, the first upper vent hole (43A) is formed on the right side relative to the second upper vent hole (43B). A front wall (100), which will be described later, is arranged behind the first upper vent hole (43A). The front intake port (103A) of the front wall (100) is connected to the first upper vent hole (43A). Accordingly, outside air can be introduced into the electrical compartment (S2) while continuously passing through the first upper vent hole (43A) and the front intake port (103A). On the other hand, the front wall (100) positioned behind the second upper vent hole (43B) has no forward-opening intake port, and only a second air intake port (106) open upwards is formed. Accordingly, outside air entering the second upper vent hole (43B) is guided upwards. This structure will be described again below.

[0093] Looking at the housing (50), the housing (50) can form the remaining inner wall of the cooking chamber (S1) except for the front, which is the entrance to the cooking chamber (S1). Specifically, the housing (50) includes a housing upper surface (51), a housing lower surface (52), a housing rear surface (53), and a pair of housing side surfaces (54, 55). The housing upper surface (51), the housing lower surface (52), the housing rear surface (53), and the pair of housing side surfaces (54, 55) define the cooking chamber (S1). Drawing reference numeral 52a indicates the bottom surface of the cooking chamber (S1), which becomes a portion where food is placed.

[0094] At this time, the upper surface (51) of the housing is formed by the upper plate (51). The upper plate (51) may be a thin plate-like structure covering the upper surface of the housing (50). As will be described below, a camera mounting portion (60), a waveguide outlet (57A), etc. may be formed on the upper plate (51). Since the heat of the cooking chamber (S1) is directly transferred to the upper plate (51), it may be in a high temperature state. However, an insulating cover (80) to be described below may be laminated on the upper plate (51) to reduce the heat transferred to the electrical compartment (S2). This structure will be described again below.

[0095] An electrical compartment (S2) is formed between the housing (50) and the outer body (10). More precisely, the upper plate (51) of the housing (50) and the upper cover (11) of the outer body (10) may be spaced apart from each other, and the electrical compartment (S2) may be formed therebetween. The electrical compartment (S2) is a space separated from the cooking chamber (S1). In the electrical compartment (S2), heat-generating components (HP) to be described below, an upper heater (not shown) and a heater cover (180) covering the upper heater, and electrical compartment cooling fans (150, 155), etc. may be arranged. Among the heat-generating components (HP), a high-voltage transformer and a magnetron (170) are illustrated in FIG. 2. Although not illustrated, a lower heater may be arranged at the lower portion of the cooking chamber (S1) opposite the electrical compartment (S2). The lower heater heats the lower portion of the cooking chamber (S1).

[0096] The above-mentioned electric power chamber (S2) and the above-mentioned cooking chamber (S1) are separated from each other, but can be connected to each other through an air duct (70). The air duct (70) can supply air discharged from the first electric power chamber cooling fan (150) among the electric power chamber cooling fans (150, 155) to the interior of the cooking chamber (S1) through the cooking chamber intake (IH). The air supplied to the cooking chamber (S1) in this way can pass through the interior of the cooking chamber (S1) and be discharged through the cooking chamber exhaust port (OH, see FIG. 5) described below.

[0097] Looking at the structure of the air duct (70), one end (71) of the air duct (70) is placed in the electric power compartment (S2). The other end (73) of the air duct (70) is connected to the side surface (54) of the housing. More precisely, the other end (73) of the air duct (70) is connected to the cooking chamber intake port (IH) formed in the side surface (54) of the housing. Accordingly, the air of the electric power compartment (S2) moves along the air duct (70) and is then supplied into the cooking chamber (S1) through the cooking chamber intake port (IH).

[0098] A front wall (100) may be arranged in front of the above-described electrical room (S2). The front wall (100) is arranged in front of the electrical room (S2) so as to face the front frame (40). Outside air passing through the upper vent hole (43) formed in the front frame (40) may pass through the front wall (100). For this purpose, air intakes (102A, 103A, 106) may be formed in the front wall (100). The first wall (101) and the second wall (105) constituting the front wall (100) may extend along the left-right width direction of the cooking appliance. The structure of the front wall (100) will be described again below.

[0099] Referring to Fig. 3, the appearance of the electrical room (S2) is illustrated in a plan view. The floor of the electrical room (S2) may be formed by the insulating cover (80). A plurality of components may be arranged on the upper portion of the insulating cover (80). The plurality of components may include an electrical room cooling fan (150, 155), heat-generating components (HP), an upper heater, and a camera module (CM). For reference, in Fig. 7, reference numeral 81A indicates the upper surface of the insulating cover (80), and the upper surface (81A) of the insulating cover (80) becomes the floor surface of the electrical room (S2).

[0100] The front wall (100) is arranged at the front (lower side based on FIG. 3) of the above-mentioned electrical room (S2). Air intakes (102A, 103A, 106) can be opened in the front wall (100). FIG. 3 illustrates an upper intake (102A) and a second air intake (106) among the first air intakes (102A, 103A) constituting the air intakes (102A, 103A, 106). The upper intake (102A) and the second air intake (106) each form a path through which outside air is introduced toward the upper side of the front wall (100).

[0101] In the above-described electrical room (S2), a guide fence (110) may be placed adjacent to the front wall (100). The guide fence (110) may partition an area surrounding the electrical room cooling fan (150, 155) and the camera module (CM) and the remaining area. More precisely, in the present embodiment, the guide fence (110) partitions an area surrounding the first electrical room cooling fan (150), the lighting module (140), and the camera module (CM) and the remaining area. The guide fence (110) may prevent high-temperature / high-humidity air from being transferred from the remaining area to the partitioned area. Of course, even if the guide fence (110) cannot completely block air transferred from the remaining area to the partitioned area, it may block a large amount of heat / humidity.

[0102] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 5, the guide fence (110) includes a first fence portion (111) and a second fence portion (115). The first fence portion (111) extends in the left-right width direction of the cooking appliance. One end of the first fence portion (111) may extend to the side wall of the electrical compartment (S2). The other end of the first fence portion (111) may extend to the center (C) of the electrical compartment (S2). One end of the second fence portion (115) is connected to the other end of the first fence portion (111) and extends in the front-back direction of the cooking appliance. The other end of the second fence portion (115) may extend to the front wall (100). Accordingly, an area surrounded by the guide fence (110), the side wall of the electrical compartment (S2), and the front wall (100) may be formed.

[0103] An air guide (120) may be arranged on the front wall (100). The air guide (120) may serve to guide outside air sucked in through the first air intake (102A, 103A) of the front wall (100) to the camera module (CM). To this end, the air guide (120) is arranged at the rear of the first wall (101) of the front wall (100). In the present embodiment, the air guide (120) is also arranged in an area surrounded by the guide fence (110). The structure of the air guide (120) will be described again below.

[0104] A control component (130) may be placed in the above-described electrical room (S2). The control component (130) may be any one of a main control unit for controlling the cooking appliance, an input / output control unit for controlling the display unit (19), or a communication module, or a combination thereof. In addition to these, the control component (130) may also include electronic components that perform various functions. In the present embodiment, the control component (130) is placed on the opposite side of the lighting module (140) with the camera module (CM) as the center. The control component (130) may be omitted.

[0105] In the above-mentioned power supply room (S2), a lighting module (140) that irradiates light into the cooking room (S1) may be arranged. The lighting module (140) increases the illuminance of the cooking room (S1) so that a user can easily observe the cooking room (S1). The lighting module (140) may also operate together with the camera module (CM) so that the camera module (CM) can obtain a clearer image. The lighting module (140) may be arranged in the front of the power supply room (S2) facing the front wall (100).

[0106] Referring to FIG. 6, the lighting module (140) includes a lighting housing (141) provided on the floor of the electrical room (S2). The lighting housing (141) may protrude from the floor of the electrical room (S2). A lighting device (145) may be placed in the lighting housing (141) thus protruding. The lighting device (145) may be composed of a lighting substrate including an LED light source. The lighting module (140) will be described again below.

[0107] Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 5, a front compartment cooling fan (150, 155) is disposed in the front compartment (S2). The front compartment cooling fan (150, 155) can draw outside air into the front compartment (S2) through the air intake (102A, 103A, 106). The front compartment cooling fan (150, 155) can be disposed at a position spaced apart from the front wall (100) toward the center (C) of the front compartment (S2). In the present embodiment, a first front compartment cooling fan (150) and a second front compartment cooling fan (155) are disposed in the front compartment (S2).

[0108] The first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) and the second electrical compartment cooling fan (155) may be spaced apart from each other. The first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) may suck in outside air to cool the camera module (CM) and the heat-generating components (HP). The second electrical compartment cooling fan (155) may suck in outside air to cool the upper heater or the heater cover (180) covering the upper heater. Of course, since the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) and the second electrical compartment cooling fan (155) are placed in the same electrical compartment (S2), their functions are not clearly distinguished from each other. As another example, the second electrical compartment cooling fan (155) may be omitted. In this case, some of the outside air sucked in by the first battle room cooling fan (150) can cool the camera module (CM) and heat-generating components (HP), and the remaining part can cool the heater cover (180).

[0109] Looking at the structure of the first power unit cooling fan (150) and the second power unit cooling fan (155), the first power unit cooling fan (150) and the second power unit cooling fan (155) may each be equipped with a fan motor (151, 156). The fan motor (151, 156) may receive power from the high voltage transformer (165) or a separate power supply unit (not shown) to generate rotational force. Fan blades (152, 153, 157, 158) may be connected to the fan motor (151, 156). The fan blades (152, 153, 157, 158) may suck in and discharge air through rotation. The fan blades (152, 153, 157, 158) may be centrifugal fans such as a blower fan or a Sirocco fan, which is a multiblade fan. In the present embodiment, fan blades (152, 153, 157, 158) are arranged on both sides of the central fan motor (151, 156), so that the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) can suck in air from both sides. This is just one example, and the fan blades (152, 153, 157, 158) may have various fan structures that can suck in and discharge air. As another example, the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) and the second electrical compartment cooling fan (155) may have different structures.

[0110] The first powertrain cooling fan (150) and the second powertrain cooling fan (155) may be arranged in different directions. Referring to FIG. 3, the first powertrain cooling fan (150) is arranged in the left-right direction, and the second powertrain cooling fan (155) is arranged in the front-back direction. In this way, the first powertrain cooling fan (150) and the second powertrain cooling fan (155) can not only suck in air in different directions, but also discharge air in different directions.

[0111] In the above-mentioned electrical room (S2), heat-generating components (HP) are arranged. The heat-generating components (HP) refer to components that generate high temperatures during operation. The heat-generating components (HP) may include a high voltage transformer (165), a high voltage capacitor (161), and a magnetron (170). These may be arranged adjacent to each other. Since the heat-generating components (HP) may increase the temperature of the cooling room, they need to be cooled by the first electrical room cooling fan (150).

[0112] An upper heater (not shown) may be placed in the above-described electric heating chamber (S2). The upper heater may heat the cooking chamber (S1) from above the cooking chamber (S1). Reference numeral 180 denotes a heater cover (180) covering the upper heater. Accordingly, the position of the upper heater may correspond to the position of the heater cover (180). Heat generated from the upper heater may pass through the insulating cover (80) and the upper plate (51) to be transmitted to the cooking chamber (S1). The upper heater may be a sheath heater in which the protective tube of the heating wire is made of metal. Alternatively, the upper heater may be a carbon heater, a ceramic heater, or a halogen heater in which a filament is sealed inside a tube made of a transparent or translucent material. The upper heater may also be considered as a part of the heating components (HP).

[0113] A camera module (CM) is disposed in the above-described electrical compartment (S2). The camera module (CM) is disposed in the electrical compartment (S2) to obtain an image of the cooking compartment (S1). To this end, the camera module (CM) may be disposed to face the cooking compartment (S1). In the present embodiment, the camera module (CM) is disposed at a position diagonally spaced from the center (C) of the electrical compartment (S2) toward a corner of the electrical compartment (S2), and is disposed in an oblique direction toward the electrical compartment (S2).

[0114] Since the above camera module (CM) is placed in the electrical room (S2), which is a high temperature and humid environment, its durability needs to be enhanced. To enhance the durability of the above camera module (CM), in the present embodiment, the camera module (CM) is placed between the first air intake (102A, 103A) and the first electrical room cooling fan (150). This allows the camera module (CM) to be cooled by outside air during operation of the cooking appliance. This structure will be described again below.

[0115] Referring to Fig. 3, the electrical room (S2) can be divided into multiple zones. Here, the division includes not only dividing the electrical room (S2) into different independent spaces, but also arbitrarily dividing a single electrical room (S2) that is connected to each other. In Fig. 3, the reference numeral C indicates the center of the electrical room (S2). The center (C) of the electrical room (S2) means the center of the electrical room (S2) based on the front-back direction and the left-right direction. Fig. 3 illustrates a first division line (L1) and a second division line (L2), which are virtual division lines passing through the center (C) of the electrical room (S2). The electrical room (S2) is divided into multiple zones based on the first division line (L1) and the second division line (L2).

[0116] More specifically, the electrical room (S2) can be divided into a total of four areas based on the first partition line (L1) and the second partition line (L2). With reference to Fig. 3, if the first partition line (L1) is the X-axis and the second partition line (L2) is the Y-axis, the four areas can be divided into a first quadrant area (A1), a second quadrant area (A2), a third quadrant area (A3), and a fourth quadrant area (A4). Different components can be placed in each of the multiple areas divided in this way, or one component can be placed across multiple areas.

[0117] In the present embodiment, the camera module (CM) is disposed at a position away from the center (C) of the electrical compartment (S2). More precisely, the camera module (CM) is spaced forward from the electrical compartment cooling fan (150, 155) toward the air intake (102A, 103A, 106), so that the camera module (CM) is disposed between the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) and the first air intake (102A, 103A). With reference to FIG. 3, the camera module (CM) is disposed in the fourth quadrant area (A4). Therefore, the fourth quadrant area (A4) may be referred to as a camera installation area (A4). As another example, the camera installation area (A4) may be formed in any one of the first quadrant area (A1), the second quadrant area (A2), or the third quadrant area (A3).

[0118] In this way, the camera module (CM) can be less affected by the heat and moisture rising directly from the center of the cooking chamber (S1). In addition, since the camera module (CM) is positioned near the first air intake (102A, 103A) through which outside air is sucked, not only is the camera module (CM) cooled by the outside air, but also the moisture in the cooking chamber (S1) transferred to the camera module (CM) can be easily removed.

[0119] The upper heater, the heat generating components (HP), and the camera module (CM) may be disposed in different compartments, respectively. In the present embodiment, the heat generating components (HP) are disposed in the first quadrant region (A1). The upper heater and the heater cover (180) are disposed across the second quadrant region (A2) and the third quadrant region (A3). The camera module (CM) is disposed in the fourth quadrant region (A4). The second electrical compartment cooling fan (155), like the upper heater, may be disposed across the second quadrant region (A2) and the third quadrant region (A3). Therefore, the first quadrant region (A1) may be viewed as a heat generating region, and the second quadrant region (A2) and the third quadrant region (A3) may be viewed as heater regions.

[0120] At this time, the camera module (CM) and the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) may be arranged in the same compartment area. More precisely, the camera module (CM) and the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) may be arranged together in the fourth quadrant area (A4). Unlike the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150), the second electrical compartment cooling fan (155) is arranged across the second quadrant area (A2) and the third quadrant area (A3). Accordingly, the outside air sucked in by the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) through the first air intake port (102A, 103A) may be concentrated on the camera module (CM), and the outside air sucked in by the second electrical compartment cooling fan (155) through the second air intake port (106) may be concentrated on the heater cover (180).

[0121] The heat-generating components (HP) and the camera module (CM) may be arranged on opposite sides of the first powertrain cooling fan (150). The first powertrain cooling fan (150) may have a structure that blocks the space between the heat-generating components (HP) and the camera module (CM). In this way, the first powertrain cooling fan (150) itself may function as a kind of heat-insulating wall, thereby preventing heat generated from the heat-generating components (HP) from being transferred to the camera module (CM).

[0122] The camera module (CM) may be positioned forwardly toward the air intake (103A) from an imaginary dividing line (L1) that passes through the center (C) of the above-mentioned main chamber (S2) in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the air intake (103A) is opened. More precisely, the camera module (CM) is positioned forwardly toward the first air intake (102A, 103A) from the first dividing line (L1).

[0123] The camera module (CM) and the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) may be arranged to be spaced apart from the center (C) of the electrical compartment (S2) in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the air intake (103A) is opened, and may be positioned forward toward the air intake (103A). Not only the camera module (CM) but also the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) are spaced apart from the first dividing line (L1) in the direction of the first air intake (102A, 103A). At this time, the camera module (CM) may be positioned between the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) and the first air intake (102A, 103A). In this case, the outside air sucked into the first air intake (102A, 103A) may first pass the camera module (CM) and then flow toward the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150).

[0124] The camera module (CM) may be spaced apart in different directions from the upper heater and the heat-generating components (HP), so that the camera module (CM) may be positioned at a position away from the center (C) of the electrical compartment (S2). Referring to FIG. 3, the camera module (CM) may be spaced apart from the heater cover (180) in a rightward direction, that is, in a direction in which the first partition line (L1) extends. The camera module (CM) may be spaced apart from the heat-generating components (HP) in a downward direction, that is, in a direction in which the second partition line (L2) extends. In this way, the camera module (CM) may be spaced apart in different directions from the heater cover (180) and the heat-generating components (HP) that discharge heat, so that the influence of these on the camera module (CM) may be reduced.

[0125] With respect to the center (C) of the above-mentioned electrical room (S2), the camera module (CM) can be spaced laterally from the center of the electrical room (S2) toward the side wall of the electrical room (S2). At the same time, the camera module (CM) can be spaced forward from the center (C) of the electrical room (S2) toward the air intake (102A, 103A, 106). Consequently, the camera module (CM) can be arranged at a position spaced diagonally from the center (C) of the electrical room (S2).

[0126] If the electrical room (S2) is divided into two left and right areas based on an imaginary dividing line (L2) extending in the direction in which the air intake (103A) is opened, the camera module (CM) and the upper heater can be respectively placed in different areas. As shown in Fig. 3, the camera module (CM) is placed in the right area, and the upper heater is placed in the left area based on the second dividing line (L2). In addition, the guide fence (110), the first electrical room cooling fan (150), and the lighting module (140) can be placed between them. Therefore, it can be seen that the air flow between the heater cover (180) and the camera module (CM) is blocked by these structures.

[0127] The above camera module (CM) can be spaced apart from the upper heater in a direction away from the imaginary dividing line (L2) that passes through the center (C) of the electrical room (S2) in the direction in which the air intake (103A) is opened. Referring to Fig. 3, the camera module (CM) is arranged on the opposite side of the heater cover (180) based on the second dividing line (L2) and is spaced apart in a direction away from the heater cover (180). Through this, the camera module (CM) can be prevented from being heated when the upper heater is in operation by being separated from the heater cover (180).

[0128] A continuous cooling path (air inlet path) is formed between the air intake (102A, 103A) and the electrical compartment cooling fan (150, 155), and the camera module (CM) can be placed on the cooling path. Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, a predetermined path is formed between the first air intake (102A, 103A) and the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150), and this path becomes an air inlet path through which outside air is sucked in. This air inlet path can be viewed as a cooling path. The camera module (CM) can be placed on the cooling path. The outside air flowing along the cooling path cools and dries the camera module (CM) and then is sucked in by the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150).

[0129] In Fig. 4, arrow ① indicates the direction of the cooling path. For reference, Fig. 4 is an expression that omits some components of the electrical compartment (S2) and the door (15) in Fig. 3 so that the compartment area of ​​the electrical compartment (S2) is clearly visible. As can be seen, the cooling path can be directed from the front to the rear of the cooking appliance. The camera module (CM) and the magnetron (170) can be arranged on the cooling path. Of course, in addition to the magnetron (170), the remaining components constituting the heat-generating components (HP) can also be arranged on the cooling path.

[0130] At this time, the cooling path may go beyond the center (C) of the electrical room (S2) and pass through the fourth quadrant area (A4) and the first quadrant area (A1). The heater cover (180) arranged in the second quadrant area (A2) and the third quadrant area (A3) is also located outside the cooling path. The heater cover (180) can be considered to be arranged in a separate cooling path created by the outside air sucked in by the second electrical room cooling fan (155).

[0131] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, air flow spaces are formed inside the cooking appliance. The air flow spaces may be formed between the outer body (10) and the housing (50). FIG. 5 illustrates, among the air flow spaces, a heating chamber (S2) formed in the upper portion of the housing (50) and a discharge space (S3) formed in the lower portion of the housing (50). The discharge space (S3) becomes a space where air heated while passing through the heating chamber (S2) and air heated while passing through the cooking chamber (S1) gather. The air gathered in the discharge space (S3) can be discharged forward through the outside of the cooking appliance, more precisely, through the lower vent hole (44) of the front frame (40).

[0132] Referring to Fig. 6, a first connection space (S4) formed on the side of the housing (50) is illustrated. The air duct (70) may be arranged in the first connection space (S4). For reference, Fig. 6 is illustrated with the guide fence (110), the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150), and the control component (130) omitted in order to show the internal structure of the electrical compartment (S2). One end (71) of the air duct (70) is connected to the electrical compartment (S2), so that air from the electrical compartment (S2) can flow into the air duct (70). In the present embodiment, one end (71) of the air duct (70) is connected to the magnetron (170) among the heat-generating components (HP). Referring to Fig. 4, the connecting duct (175) connected to the magnetron (170) can be connected to one end (71) of the air duct (70). Drawing reference numeral 175A of Fig. 2 shows a duct outlet of the connecting duct (175). As another example, one end (71) of the air duct (70) can be opened toward the entire electrical room (S2) rather than the connecting duct (175), and as another example, can be connected to other heat-generating components (HP).

[0133] Meanwhile, a rear space (32) is formed between the rear frame (30, see FIG. 2) of the housing (50) and the rear cover (31, see FIG. 2). The rear space (32) can be viewed as the convection installation space (32). Air can also flow into the convection installation space (32). This will be described again below.

[0134] Referring to Fig. 6, the flow of air circulating inside the cooking appliance of the present embodiment will be examined. Prior to this, for convenience of explanation, the structure of the front wall (100) will first be examined. The front wall (100) includes the first wall (101) and the second wall (105). The first wall (101) and the second wall (105) are not clearly distinguished. The first wall (101) is arranged in front of the first electric room cooling fan (150), and the second wall (105) is arranged in front of the upper heater.

[0135] The first wall (101) may have a predetermined thickness in the front-back direction. The first wall (101) may include a first wall surface (102) forming an upper surface of the first wall (101), and a second wall surface (103) connected to the first wall surface (102). The first wall surface (102) may face the upper surface cover (11) forming the outer body (10). The second wall surface (103) may face the electrical room (S2).

[0136] The first air intake ports (102A, 103A) may be formed on the first wall surface (102) and the second wall surface (103). The first air intake ports (102A, 103A) may be opened in multiple directions. In the present embodiment, the first air intake ports (102A, 103A) may include an upper intake port (102A) that is opened in the vertical direction on the first wall surface (102), and a front intake port (103A) that is opened in the front and rear direction on the second wall surface (103). The upper intake port (102A) and the front intake port (103A) each have a roughly oval shape, and a plurality of upper intake ports (102A) and front intake ports (103A) may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the first wall (101). As another example, the upper suction port (102A) may be omitted. As another example, either the upper suction port (102A) or the front suction port (103A) may have a structure that is continuously connected along the length direction of the first wall (101).

[0137] A second air intake port (106) may be formed in the second wall (105). The second air intake port (106) may be opened in a vertical direction on the upper surface of the second wall (105). Accordingly, outside air may be introduced into the interior of the second wall (105) and then discharged upward through the second air intake port (106). Since the outside air discharged in this manner has an upward discharge direction, it may flow along the upper portion of the electrical room (S2) and come into contact with the upper surface of the heater cover (180).

[0138] At this time, the air intake opening forward may be omitted in the second wall (105). Referring to Fig. 5, the rear of the second upper vent hole (43B) formed in the front of the second wall (105) among the upper vent holes (43) can be seen to be blocked. In contrast, the front intake hole (103A) among the first air intake holes (102A, 103A) of the first wall (101) is located behind the first upper vent hole (43A) formed in the front of the second wall (105), so that outside air can be introduced into the electrical room (S2) while continuously passing through the first upper vent hole (43A) and the front intake hole (103A).

[0139] Referring to Fig. 6, outside air can be sucked in toward the first wall (101). This sucking of outside air can be achieved by the operation of the first electrical room cooling fan (150) positioned at the rear of the first wall (101). More precisely, some of the outside air passes through the first wall (101) and then flows into the electrical room (S2) through the front intake port (103A). At this time, the air guide (120) can guide the flow direction of the flowing air toward the camera module (CM) (arrow ① direction). Accordingly, the outside air can come into contact with the surface of the camera module (CM) to cool the camera module (CM). Of course, outside air can be sucked in through the remaining front intakes (103A) that are not blocked by the air guide (120) among the above front intakes (103A), and outside air can also be sucked into the interior of the main body room (S2) through the upper intake (102A).

[0140] Meanwhile, outside air may also be introduced through the second wall (105). More precisely, the air introduced into the second wall (105) may be discharged upward through the second air intake port (106) and then flow along the upper portion of the electrical compartment (S2) (in the direction of arrow ④). In this process, the outside air may cool the surface of the heater cover (180). If the heater cover (180) is omitted, the outside air may directly cool the upper heater. This intake of outside air may be achieved by the operation of the second electrical compartment cooling fan (155) arranged at the rear of the second wall (105). The outside air heated while passing through the surface of the heater cover (180) may be introduced into the second electrical compartment cooling fan (155) and then discharged. More precisely, outside air can be sucked in toward the fan blades (157, 158) of the second battle room cooling fan (155) (in the direction of arrow ⑤) and then discharged downward.

[0141] In Fig. 7, an upper plate (51), an insulating cover (80), and an insulating member (90) disposed therebetween, which constitute an embodiment of the present invention, are illustrated in an exploded state. As can be seen, an insulating cover (80) may be laminated on the upper portion of the upper plate (51). The insulating cover (80) may block the temperature of the upper plate (51), which is directly affected by the heat inside the cooking chamber (S1), from being transmitted to the electrical compartment (S2). The upper plate (51) and the insulating cover (80) may each be made of a substantially thin plate. The upper plate (51) may be made of a metallic material, and the insulating cover (80) may be made of a metallic or non-metallic material.

[0142] An insulating member (90) may be placed between the upper plate (51) and the insulating cover (80). The insulating member (90) may reduce heat of the upper plate (51) that is conducted to the camera module (CM) between the upper plate (51) and the insulating cover (80). To this end, the insulating member (90) may be made of a material having low thermal conductivity. For example, the insulating member (90) may be selected from materials including Styrofoam, silicone, synthetic resin, aerogel, and the like. The structure of the insulating member (90) will be described again below.

[0143] Looking at the structure of the upper plate (51), a heater arrangement portion (56) may be provided on the upper plate (51). The heater arrangement portion (56) is a portion that allows heat generated from the upper heater arranged in the electric compartment (S2) to pass through to the cooking chamber (S1). A plurality of heat transfer holes (56A) are formed in the heater arrangement portion (56). The heater arrangement portion (56) is connected to a heater penetration portion (86A) formed in the insulating cover (80). If the upper heater is omitted, the heater arrangement portion (56) may also be omitted.

[0144] The upper plate (51) may be provided with a heat source arrangement portion (57). The heat source arrangement portion (57) is a portion that allows electromagnetic waves generated from the magnetron (170) to pass through the cooking chamber (S1). An opening (57A) is formed in the heat source arrangement portion (57) to allow electromagnetic waves to pass through. The opening (57A) may be connected to a waveguide (not shown), or the opening (57A) may be viewed as a part of the waveguide. The opening (57A) may also be viewed as an outlet of the waveguide. The heat source arrangement portion (57) is connected to a heat source penetration portion (87A) formed in the insulating cover (80). If the magnetron (170) is omitted, the heat source arrangement portion (57) may also be omitted.

[0145] The upper plate (51) may be provided with a light arrangement portion (58). The light arrangement portion (58) is a portion that allows light generated from the light module (140) to pass through to the cooking chamber (S1). A plurality of light transmission holes (58A) are formed in the light arrangement portion (58). The light arrangement portion (58) is connected to a light penetration portion (88A) formed in the insulating cover (80). If the light module (140) is omitted, the light arrangement portion (58) may also be omitted.

[0146] The upper plate (51) may be provided with a camera mounting portion (60). The camera mounting portion (60) is for installing the image acquisition device (200). The camera mounting portion (60) may protrude from the upper plate (51). More precisely, the camera mounting portion (60) may protrude from the cooking chamber (S1) toward the electrical compartment (S2). Due to the protruding structure of the camera mounting portion (60), the camera module (CM) may be placed at a higher position than the floor of the electrical compartment (S2). In addition, the protruding structure of the camera mounting portion (60) becomes a recessed structure toward the electrical compartment (S2) when viewed from the cooking chamber (S1). This recessed portion may provide a space for mounting the window module (WM), which will be described below. The detailed structure of the camera mounting portion (60) will be described again below.

[0147] A camera penetration hole (82) for passing the camera mounting portion (60) is formed in the insulating cover (80). All or part of the camera mounting portion (60) can be exposed to the electrical compartment (S2) through the camera penetration hole (82). The camera penetration hole (82) is connected to a camera penetration hole (92) of an insulating member (90) to be described later. To distinguish them, the camera penetration hole (82) of the insulating cover (80) will be referred to as a cover penetration hole (82), and the camera penetration hole (92) of the insulating member (90) will be referred to as a member penetration hole (92). In the present embodiment, the cover penetration hole (82) allows a part of the camera mounting portion (60), more precisely, the mounting protrusion (65) to be described later, to pass through.

[0148] The above insulating cover (80) may be provided with a component mounting portion (88). The component mounting portion (88) may be provided with all or part of the heat-generating components (HP). In the present embodiment, the high-voltage transformer (165) is mounted on the component mounting portion (88). The component mounting portion (88) may have a kind of protruding structure, and may also function to increase the durability of the insulating cover (80). The component mounting portion (88) may be omitted.

[0149] A hanging hole (89) may be formed in the insulating cover (80). The hanging hole (89) is formed by penetrating the insulating cover (80). The hanging hole (89) is formed at a position adjacent to the cover penetration hole (82). A hanging end (not shown), which is a part of the air guide (120), is inserted into the hanging hole (89). Drawing reference numeral 83 denotes a hanging hook, which can hang and fix a part of the control component (130).

[0150] As shown in Fig. 7, the camera module (CM) may be placed on the upper portion of the camera mounting portion (60). The window module (WM) may be placed on the lower portion of the camera mounting portion (60). In this way, the camera module (CM) and the window module (WM) may be placed in opposite directions on the camera mounting portion (60) with the camera mounting portion (60) as the center. As a result, the camera module (CM) is placed on the floor of the electrical compartment (S2), and the window module (WM) is placed on the ceiling of the cooking compartment (S1).

[0151] Looking at the structure of the above camera mounting portion (60), the camera mounting portion (60) may include a mounting base (61) that protrudes upward, i.e., in the direction of the electrical compartment (S2). The mounting base (61) may have an approximately rectangular shape. The mounting base (61) may further have a mounting protrusion (65) that protrudes in the direction of the electrical compartment (S2). A camera module (CM) is arranged on the mounting protrusion (65). A shooting hole (66) is opened in the mounting protrusion (65), so that the camera sensor (240) of the camera module (CM) can be exposed to the cooking compartment (S1) through the shooting hole (66). The structure of the mounting protrusion (65) will be described again below.

[0152] The camera mounting portion (60) may be provided with a frame fastening portion (63). The frame fastening portion (63) protrudes from the mounting base (61). The frame fastening portion (63) extends from the edge of the mounting base (61) in a direction in which the width of the camera mounting portion (60) expands, i.e., in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the mounting protrusion (65) protrudes. A frame extension portion (253) of a window frame (250) to be described below may be mounted on the bottom surface of the frame fastening portion (63). In the present embodiment, the frame fastening portions (63) are provided on each of the edges constituting the four sides of the mounting base (61).

[0153] The above-mentioned mounting protrusion (65) can be exposed to the electrical compartment (S2) by passing through the member penetration hole (92) formed in the insulating member (90) and the cover penetration hole (82) formed in the insulating cover (80). In the present embodiment, the member penetration hole (92) is formed larger than the cover penetration hole (82). In this way, the area of ​​the camera mounting portion (60) exposed through the member penetration hole (92) is larger than the area of ​​the camera mounting portion (60) exposed through the cover penetration hole (82).

[0154] More precisely, the cover penetration hole (82) and the member penetration hole (92) are connected to each other in a direction in which the camera mounting portion (60) is sunken toward the electrical compartment (S2). At this time, the width of the member penetration hole (92) is formed wider than the width of the cover penetration hole (82). As shown in Fig. 8, the edge of the member penetration hole (92) is formed further outward than the edge of the cover penetration hole (82).

[0155] The edge of the above-mentioned member penetration hole (92) may be arranged above the frame fastening part (63) of the camera mounting part (60). Here, the edge of the member penetration hole (92) means the inner circumference of the member penetration hole (92). Referring to the lower enlarged view of Fig. 8, the edge of the member penetration hole (92) is arranged between the frame fastening part (63) and the bottom surface (81B) of the insulating cover (81). At this time, since the frame fastening part (63) protrudes toward the electrical compartment (S2), the insulating member (90) may be compressed between the surface of the frame fastening part (63) and the bottom surface (81B) of the insulating cover (80). When the edge of the member penetration hole (92) is compressed in this way, the heat of the cooking chamber (S1) can be more reliably blocked from being transferred to the camera module (CM) through the member penetration hole (92).

[0156] As another example, the edge of the member penetration hole (92) may be positioned on the surface of the mounting base (61). As another example, the edge of the member penetration hole (92) may be positioned on the upper surface of the upper plate (51) outside the frame fastening portion (63). Drawing reference numeral 93 indicates an interference prevention groove through which the first fastening hole (B1, see FIG. 9) passes.

[0157] As shown in Fig. 7, a camera bracket (210) may be placed on the upper portion of the camera mounting portion (60). The camera bracket (210) is placed between the camera casing (220) constituting the camera module (CM) and the mounting protrusion (65). The camera bracket (210) is fixed to the camera mounting portion (60), and the camera casing (220) is assembled to the camera bracket (210). In this way, (i) a complex structure for mounting the camera casing (220) does not need to be directly formed on the camera mounting portion (60), (ii) the mounting height of the camera casing (220) can be further increased through the camera bracket (210), and (iii) the camera bracket (210) can serve as an additional heat insulating component to increase the heat durability of the camera module (CM). The camera bracket (210) may be viewed as a part of the camera module (CM). The structure of the above camera bracket (210) will be described again below.

[0158] Referring to Fig. 9, the camera module (CM) is arranged on the upper plate (51). In this state, after the insulating member (90) is arranged to surround the camera module (CM), the insulating cover (80) can be laminated on the upper surface of the upper plate (51) with the insulating member (90) interposed therebetween. Alternatively, the upper plate (51), the insulating member (90), and the insulating cover (80) may be assembled first, and then the camera module (CM) may be installed on the mounting protrusion (65) exposed through the cover penetration hole (82) of the insulating cover (80). The installation structure of the camera module (CM) will be described again below.

[0159] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the structure in which the camera module (CM) is placed in the electrical compartment (S2) and the structure in which outside air is directed toward the camera module (CM) will be described. First, referring to FIG. 10, the camera module (CM) may be placed between the front wall (100) and the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150). The camera module (CM) may be placed closer to the floor of the electrical compartment (S2) by being lower than the front wall (100) and the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150). In other words, the camera module (CM) may be spaced further from the bottom surface of the upper cover (11) of the outer body (10) (the upper surface of the electrical compartment (S2)) than the front wall (100) and the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150). Accordingly, sufficient space can be secured at the top of the camera module (CM) to allow outside air to flow.

[0160] The camera module (CM) and the first electrical room cooling fan (150) may be placed in the camera installation area (A4), which is the fourth quadrant area (A4) surrounded by the guide fence (110). More precisely, the front wall (100) and the first fence portion (111) respectively partition the front and rear of the camera installation area (A4), and the second fence portion (115) partitions the side. The lighting module (140) and the control component (130) may also be placed in the camera installation area (A4).

[0161] An air guide (120) may be arranged in the above camera installation area (A4). The air guide (120) may be in close contact with the front wall (100). The air guide (120) guides some of the outside air introduced through the front wall (100) toward the camera module (CM). More precisely, the air guide (120) is arranged in the first wall (101) of the front wall (100), and covers some of the front intake ports (103A) formed in the first wall (101). In this way, the outside air introduced through the front intake ports (103A) formed in the area covered by the air guide (120) flows along the air guide (120).

[0162] As shown in Fig. 10, the air guide (120) is positioned corresponding to the camera module (CM). The air guide (120) may be positioned between the lighting module (140) and the control component (130). Accordingly, among the outside air drawn in through the front intake (103A), the outside air flowing in the direction of the lighting module (140) and the control component (130), i.e., the outside air flowing toward the center of the camera installation area (A4), may be guided through the air guide (120).

[0163] Heat generating components (HP) are arranged in the first quadrant area (A1) that is separated from the above camera installation area (A4), which is a heat generating area (A1). A first fence section (111) blocks the gap between the camera installation area (A4) and the heat generating area (A1). Accordingly, outside air can first cool the camera module (CM) and then enter the heat generating area through the first discharge holes (112, 113) of the first fence section (111).

[0164] Fig. 11 illustrates a portion of the floor of the above-described electrical room (S2) cut away. As can be seen therein, the insulating member (90) is built into the interior of the floor of the above-described electrical room (S2) that forms the lower portion of the camera module (CM). The insulating member (90) is arranged around the camera module (CM), thereby blocking heat from the electrical room (S2) from being conducted to the camera module (CM). In addition, since the window module (WM) is arranged under the camera module (CM), the window module (WM) can block radiant heat from being conducted to the camera module (CM).

[0165] In this way, (i) not only is the camera module (CM) cooled and dried by the outside air introduced through the air guide (120), but (ii) heat conducted from the electrical room (S2) is blocked by the insulating member (90) and the insulating cover (80), and (iii) heat and moisture radiated from the electrical room (S2) are blocked by the window module (WM). Therefore, even if the camera module (CM) is placed in the electrical room (S2), which is a high temperature and humid environment, a failure of the camera module (CM) can be prevented. In addition, the window sealing portion (270) of the window module (WM), which will be described later, can also block heat and moisture transmitted to the camera installation area (A4).

[0166] Meanwhile, since an upper intake port (102A) is also formed in the first wall (101), some of the outside air can be introduced upwards through the upper intake port (102A). The air introduced in this way can cool the camera installation area (A4) as it passes over the upper portion of the camera installation area (A4).

[0167] As shown in Fig. 11, the camera module (CM) and the window module (WM) have a structure in which they are stacked on top of each other. Therefore, the camera module (CM) and the window module (WM) can be viewed as forming a single image acquisition device (200).

[0168] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the arrangement of the camera module (CM) and the window module (WM) on the upper plate (51) will be described. First, referring to FIG. 12, the camera module (CM) is shown exposed from the insulating cover (80). The camera module (CM) is arranged on the camera mounting portion (60) of the upper plate (51), and more precisely, it is arranged on the mounting protrusion (65) that protrudes through the cover penetration hole (82) of the insulating cover (80) among the camera mounting portions (60).

[0169] The above camera module (CM) may be arranged in an inclined direction with respect to the front-back direction. Referring to Fig. 12, the camera module (CM) is rotated counterclockwise with respect to the front-back direction. In this way, the camera module (CM) may face the center of the cooking chamber (S1). In addition, a part of the camera module (CM) arranged in such an inclined direction, more precisely, the lower part of the camera module (CM) with respect to Fig. 12, may be arranged below the air guide (120).

[0170] At this time, the camera board (230) of the camera module (CM) is positioned at a position far from the center (C) of the electrical compartment (S2) based on the center of the camera module (CM). If the camera board (230) is positioned at a position far from the center (C) of the electrical compartment (S2), it can be positioned far from the upper heater. In addition, if the camera board (230) is positioned at a position far from the center (C) of the electrical compartment (S2), the camera board (230) can be positioned far from the center of the cooking compartment (S1) to secure a wider angle of view.

[0171] In contrast to FIG. 12, FIG. 13 illustrates a view of the ceiling of the cooking chamber (S1) as viewed from inside the cooking chamber (S1). That is, FIG. 13 represents a view of the bottom surface (51B) of the upper plate (51) as viewed from inside the cooking chamber (S1). As can be seen, the window module (WM) is exposed on the bottom surface (51B) of the upper plate (51). The window module (WM) can constitute the surface of the cooking chamber (S1). The window module (WM) becomes a part of the surface of the cooking chamber (S1). In the present embodiment, the window module (WM) constitutes a part of the ceiling surface of the cooking chamber (S1).

[0172] The above window module (WM) is positioned between the camera module (CM) and the cooking chamber (S1). Accordingly, the window module (WM) can prevent the camera module (CM) from being directly exposed to the cooking chamber (S1). The window panel (260) provided in the window module (WM) can transmit light from the cooking chamber (S1) to the camera module (CM). The detailed structure of the window module (WM) will be described again below.

[0173] As shown in Fig. 13, the camera mounting portion (60) is observed through the window panel (260). Although the camera mounting portion (60) is illustrated in a dotted line, since the window panel (260) is transparent, the camera mounting portion (60) can be observed from inside the cooking chamber (S1). A shooting hole (66) is formed in the mounting protrusion (65) provided on the camera mounting portion (60), and the shooting hole (66) faces the inside of the cooking chamber (S1) through the window panel.

[0174] The upper part of the first fastener (B1) may be exposed to the inside of the cooking chamber (S1). At this time, the first fastener (B1) is assembled to the frame extension (253) of the window frame (250). The frame extension (253) protrudes in a direction away from the edge of the window panel (260). Accordingly, in order to secure a portion for assembling the first fastener (B1), there is no need for the entire window module (WM) to become larger, or for the window panel (260) to become relatively smaller.

[0175] FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 illustrate the camera mounting portion (60) with the insulating cover (80) and the insulating member (90) removed. For reference, FIG. 14 illustrates the camera bracket (210) and the camera module (CM) arranged on the camera mounting portion (60), and FIG. 15 illustrates the camera bracket (210) arranged on the camera mounting portion (60) with the camera module (CM) omitted. As shown in FIG. 14, the camera substrate (230) is installed on the camera casing (220) and fixed to the camera mounting portion (60). More specifically, the camera bracket (210) is fixed to the camera mounting portion (60), and the camera casing (220) is assembled to the camera bracket (210). The upper surface of the above camera bracket (210) is a horizontal plane, and the supporter part (227) of the camera casing (220) can be fixed thereon by the second fastening member (B2).

[0176] The storage body (221) of the camera casing (220) extends in an inclined direction from the supporter portion (227), so that the camera substrate (230) can also be arranged in an inclined direction. Here, the inclined direction means a state in which the camera substrate (230) is rotated around a rotation axis extending in the horizontal direction while facing the horizontal direction. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 17, the camera substrate (230) and the camera sensor (240) can be inclined downward toward the cooking chamber (S1). The structure of the camera module (CM) including the camera casing (220) will be described again below.

[0177] As shown in Fig. 14, a second fastener (B2) may be used to mount the camera module (CM). The second fastener (B2) may secure the support portion (227) of the camera module (CM), which will be described below, to the camera bracket (210). The second fastener (B2) may be assembled downward in the electrical compartment (S2). Accordingly, the upper portion (e.g., the head of the screw) of the second fastener (B2) is exposed to the electrical compartment (S2).

[0178] In contrast, the first fastener (B1) for mounting the window module (WM) can be assembled in the opposite direction. With the frame extension (253) of the window frame (250) secured to the lower surface of the frame fastening portion (63), the first fastener (B1) can assemble the frame extension (253) and the frame fastening portion (63). The first fastener (B1) is fastened to the frame extension (253) in a state where it faces from the cooking chamber (S1) toward the electrical compartment (S2). The upper portion (e.g., the head of the screw) of the first fastener (B1) is observed from the cooking chamber (S1), but may not be visible from the electrical compartment (S2). In this embodiment, the end of the first fastener (B1) faces upward, and the end of the first fastener (B1) can be placed within the interference prevention groove (93, see FIG. 7) of the insulating member (90). In FIG. 12, where the insulating cover (80) is not removed, the first fastener (B1) is represented by a dotted line.

[0179] Referring to Fig. 15, the camera bracket (210) may be placed on the camera mounting portion (60). The camera bracket (210) is placed on the mounting base (61) of the camera mounting portion (60). More precisely, the camera bracket (210) is placed at a position corresponding to the mounting protrusion (65) of the camera mounting portion (60). The camera bracket (210) may be placed to cover at least a portion of the upper portion of the mounting protrusion (65). The camera bracket (210) may be arranged so that the camera module (CM) is not directly coupled to the camera mounting portion (60), but is placed on the upper portion of the mounting protrusion (65) via the camera bracket (210). Through this, heat conducted to the camera module (CM) can be blocked. As another example, the camera bracket (210) may be omitted, and the camera module (CM) may be directly fixed to the camera mounting portion (60). As another example, the camera bracket (210) may be made integrally with the camera module (CM).

[0180] The mounting member (211) constituting the camera bracket (210) is laminated on the upper surface of the mounting base (61). In this state, the mounting member (211) can be fixed to the upper surface of the mounting base (61). The mounting members (211) are provided in pairs on both sides of the camera bracket (210) and may have a shape bent in a horizontal direction. In the present embodiment, the mounting member (211) is provided at the lowest position of the camera bracket (210).

[0181] The mounting end (211) of the camera bracket (210) may be welded to the camera mounting portion (60). Reference numeral 212 indicates a hole for welding the mounting end (211). As another example, the mounting end (211) of the camera bracket (210) may be fixed to the camera mounting portion (60) using a fastener (not shown). As another example, the mounting end (211) of the camera bracket (210) may be bonded to the camera mounting portion (60) using an adhesive. As another example, the camera bracket (210) may be made integrally with the camera mounting portion (60).

[0182] The above camera bracket (210) may include a mounting leg (213). The mounting leg (213) extends in an erecting direction, i.e., in an up-down direction. The mounting end (211) is connected to one end of the mounting leg (213), and the bracket body (215) is connected to the other end. The mounting leg (213) may be viewed as having a function of spacing the bracket body (215) away from the mounting base (61). The mounting leg (213) may have a height higher than or equal to the height at which the mounting protrusion (65) protrudes upward. The mounting leg (213) and the mounting end (211) may have a cross section having an approximately L-shape.

[0183] The above camera bracket (210) may include a bracket body (215). The camera module (CM) may be arranged on the upper surface of the bracket body (215). The bracket body (215) may have a flat structure. The bracket body (215) connects a pair of the mounting legs (213). In the present embodiment, the bracket body (215) is provided at the highest position of the camera bracket (210). The bracket body (215) is arranged above the mounting protrusion (65). The bracket body (215) and the mounting legs (213) may have a cross section having an approximately U-shape.

[0184] A first bracket hole (218) may be formed in the bracket body (215). The first bracket hole (218) penetrates the bracket body (215) in the vertical direction. The first bracket holes (218) may be configured as a pair. Referring to FIG. 20, an assembly protrusion (228) provided in a camera casing (220) is inserted into the first bracket hole (218). When the assembly protrusion (228) is inserted into the first bracket hole (218), the camera casing (220) can be pre-assembled to the camera bracket (210).

[0185] A second bracket hole (219) may be formed in the bracket body (215). The second bracket hole (219) penetrates the bracket body (215) in the vertical direction. The second bracket holes (219) may be configured as a pair. In the present embodiment, the second bracket hole (219) is arranged outside the first bracket hole (218). Referring to FIG. 20, a supporter hole (229) provided in a camera casing (220) is connected to the second bracket hole (219). In a state where the supporter hole (229) is connected to the second bracket hole (219), the second fastener (B2) may be assembled by sequentially passing through the supporter hole (229) and the second bracket hole (219).

[0186] As shown in Fig. 15, a shooting hole (66) is formed in the mounting protrusion (65) of the camera mounting portion (60), and the shooting hole (66) is opened in an inclined direction. When the camera module (CM) is not mounted on the camera bracket (210), the shooting hole (66) is exposed, but when the camera module (CM) is mounted, the camera module (CM) covers the shooting hole (66). When the camera module (CM) is mounted on the camera bracket (210), the shooting hole (66) can face the camera sensor (240) of the camera module (CM).

[0187] Fig. 16 illustrates another embodiment of the camera mounting portion (60). The same structure as the previous embodiment is given the same drawing reference numerals and a description thereof is omitted. As can be seen, in this embodiment, the frame fastening portion (63) of the camera mounting portion (60) is omitted. Since the frame fastening portion (63) is omitted, the frame extension portion (253) of the window module (WM) may also be omitted. Although not illustrated, in this embodiment, the window frame (250) of the window module (WM) may be press-fitted or adhered to the camera mounting portion (60). As another example, the window frame (250) may be fixed to the camera mounting portion (60) through a hook or other engaging structure.

[0188] FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate cross-sectional views of the camera bracket (210) and the camera module (CM), which constitute an embodiment of the present invention. For reference, FIGS. 17 and 18 each illustrate cross-sectional views of the camera bracket (210) and the camera module (CM) cut at different angles. In addition, while FIG. 17 illustrates the insulating cover (80), FIG. 18 illustrates the insulating cover (80) without it.

[0189] First, looking at Fig. 17, we can see the camera bracket (210) fixed to the camera mounting portion (60) and the camera module (CM) arranged on the camera bracket (210). When the camera module (CM) is arranged on the camera bracket (210), the camera substrate (230) and the camera sensor (240) face in an inclined direction. Based on the drawing, the camera sensor (240) is arranged in a downward inclined direction with respect to the left-right direction (horizontal direction). Accordingly, compared to the case where the camera sensor (240) faces in a vertical direction, the angle of view (α) of the camera sensor (240) is relatively widened. Fig. 17 shows a camera hole (222) formed on the storage body (221) forming a continuous shooting path with the shooting hole (66) of the mounting protrusion (65). Drawing symbol 245 represents a component mounted on the camera substrate (230) and may include a connector.

[0190] The window module (WM) is arranged between the camera sensor (240) and the cooking chamber (S1). Since the window panel (260) of the window module (WM) transmits light, the camera sensor (240) can capture images of the cooking chamber (S1) through the window panel (260). In Fig. 17, the dotted line indicates the shooting range of the camera sensor (240) that passes through the window panel (260).

[0191] Referring to Fig. 18, the camera casing (220) constituting the camera module (CM) may be provided with a supporter portion (227). The supporter portion (227) is fixed to the bracket body (215) of the camera bracket (210) by a second fastener (B2). In this state, the storage body (221) of the camera casing (220) extends in an inclined direction from the supporter portion (227), and it can be seen that the camera substrate (230) and the camera sensor (240) are also arranged in an inclined direction.

[0192] A sensor cover (247) may be provided in front of the camera sensor (240). The sensor cover (247) may be positioned in front of the camera sensor (240) to protect the camera sensor (240). The sensor cover (247) is made of a transparent material, and may transmit light to the camera sensor (240) together with the window panel (260). The sensor cover (247) may not only prevent foreign substances from being attached to the camera sensor (240), but may also perform an insulating function. As another example, the sensor cover (247) may be omitted.

[0193] Referring again to FIG. 17, the storage body (221) of the camera casing (220) extends in an inclined direction from the supporter portion (227) and is positioned to face the mounting protrusion (65). At this time, the storage body (221) is positioned adjacent to the mounting protrusion (65), but does not directly contact the mounting protrusion (65). In this way, heat of the mounting protrusion (65) can be prevented from being directly transferred to the storage body (221).

[0194] The above-mentioned mounting protrusion (65) may have an inclined surface. This inclined surface may create an inclined angle of the camera sensor (240). The above-mentioned mounting protrusion (65) does not necessarily have to have an inclined surface, and as another example, the surface of the above-mentioned mounting protrusion (65) may be curved.

[0195] A predetermined space, a shooting space (65A), is formed inside the above-mentioned mounting protrusion (65), more precisely, between the lower portion of the above-mentioned mounting protrusion (65) and the above-mentioned window panel (260). The shooting space (65A) is a kind of empty space, and the light from the cooking chamber (S1) passes through the shooting space (65A) and reaches the camera sensor (240). At this time, the shooting space (65A) can be a kind of insulating space. By forming the shooting space (65A) in front of the camera sensor (240), the camera sensor (240) can have an advantageous cooling structure.

[0196] Referring to Fig. 18, the window module (WM) may be provided with a window sealing portion (270). The window sealing portion (270) surrounds the window panel (260). The window sealing portion (270) can prevent heat and moisture from leaking between the edge of the window panel (260) and the window frame (250), and between the edge of the window panel (260) and the camera mounting portion (60). The structure of the window sealing portion (270) will be described again below.

[0197] FIG. 19 shows the disassembled parts of the camera module (CM) and the window module (WM) constituting one embodiment of the present invention, arranged on both sides based on the camera mounting portion (60). For reference, in order to show the camera mounting portion (60), the remaining portion of the upper plate (51) is removed in FIG. 19, and only the area around the camera mounting portion (60) is shown. As can be seen, the window module (WM) is arranged at the bottom of the camera bracket (210), and the camera module (CM) is arranged at the top. Accordingly, the assembly directions of the window module (WM) and the camera module (CM) may also be opposite to each other.

[0198] First, looking at the structure of the camera mounting portion (60), as described above, the mounting base (61) of the camera mounting portion (60) protrudes toward the camera module (CM). The upper surface of the mounting base (61) has a flat structure, but the side surface (62) may have a curved or inclined structure.

[0199] The above mounting base (61) may be provided with a frame fastening portion (63). A fastening portion hole (64) for fastening with the first fastening member (B1) is formed in the frame fastening portion (63). In Fig. 19, the first fastening member (B1) may be assembled into the fastening portion hole (64) after passing through the frame hole (254) of the window frame (250).

[0200] The mounting protrusion (65) protrudes from the mounting base (61). The upper surface of the mounting protrusion (65) is formed at the highest position in the camera mounting portion (60). The mounting protrusion (65) may have an inclined surface or a curved surface structure. In the present embodiment, the mounting protrusion (65) has inclined surfaces at different angles. More precisely, the inclined surface where the photographing hole (66) is formed is formed at a steeper angle than the opposite inclined surface. As another example, the mounting protrusion (65) may have a dome structure in which all inclined surfaces have the same angle of inclination.

[0201] Next, looking at the detailed structure of the camera module (CM), the camera module (CM) can be mounted on the camera bracket (210) that is fixed to the camera mounting portion (60). The camera module (CM) can include a camera casing (220) and a camera substrate (230) that is accommodated in the camera casing (220). The camera sensor (240) is mounted on the camera substrate (230). The camera substrate (230) is formed to be long in one direction. As another example, the camera substrate (230) can be composed of a flexible FPCB. As another example, the camera substrate (230) can be omitted, and a circuit portion can be included in the camera sensor (240).

[0202] The above camera casing (220) may include a storage body (221) and a supporter portion (227). The storage body (221) and the supporter portion (227) may be connected to each other in an inclined direction. The supporter portion (227) is fixed to the camera bracket (210), and the storage body (221) is fixed to the camera bracket (210) via the supporter portion (227). In the present embodiment, the supporter portion (227) is fixed in a horizontal direction, and the storage body (221) is arranged in an inclined direction. When the storage body (221) is mounted in an inclined shape, the storage body (221) may have a shape corresponding to the inclination of the mounting protrusion (65).

[0203] The camera substrate (230) is stored in the storage body (221). The camera substrate (230) can be mounted on the camera bracket (210) while being stored in the storage body (221). The storage body (221) is formed to be elongated in one direction, similar to the camera substrate (230). The storage body (221) has a roughly square frame shape, and a storage space (223) for storing the camera substrate (230) is formed inside.

[0204] A camera hole (222) may be formed in the storage space (223). The camera hole (222) is formed by penetrating the bottom of the storage space (223). The camera hole (222) is a hole for taking pictures and is opened at a position corresponding to the camera sensor (240). As another example, the camera hole (222) may have a long hole shape. As another example, the camera hole (222) may be omitted and the entire bottom of the storage space (223) may be opened.

[0205] An alignment protrusion (224) may protrude from the storage space (223) of the storage body (221). The alignment protrusion (224) protrudes outward from the storage space (223). The alignment protrusion (224) is fitted into an alignment hole (234) formed in the camera substrate (230). When the alignment protrusion (224) is fitted into the alignment hole (234), the camera substrate (230) is seated at an accurate position within the storage space (223). The alignment protrusion (224) and the alignment hole (234) are configured as a pair in the storage body (221) and the camera substrate (230), respectively. As another example, the alignment protrusion (224) and the alignment hole (234) may be omitted.

[0206] Referring to Fig. 21, the alignment protrusion (224) is shown fitted into the alignment hole (234). The alignment protrusion (224) may be fitted into the alignment hole (234) to align the position of the camera substrate (230), but the depth of storage of the camera substrate (230) may be limited due to the step structure of the alignment protrusion (224). That is, when the bottom surface (231B) of the camera substrate (230) enters the storage space (223) with the bottom surface (231B) of the camera substrate (230) facing the bottom of the storage space (223), the step structure of the alignment protrusion (224) interferes with the bottom surface (231B) of the camera substrate (230) corresponding to the edge of the alignment hole (234), thereby limiting the insertion of the camera substrate (230) to a certain depth.

[0207] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, the storage body (221) may be provided with a fixing hook (225). The fixing hook (225) is arranged around the edge of the storage space (223) of the storage body (221). The fixing hook (225) protrudes in a cantilever shape to hook and fix the surface of the camera substrate (230). More precisely, the hook end (225A) of the fixing hook (225) hooks and supports the upper surface of the camera substrate (230). A plurality of the fixing hooks (225) are arranged around the edge of the storage space (223). Reference numeral 226 denotes a storage fence (226), and the storage fence (226) is arranged between the fixing hooks (225) to support the side surface of the camera substrate (230). As another example, the fixed hook (225) may be omitted, and the camera substrate (230) may be fixed to the storage space (223) by a press-fit method or a screw fastening method.

[0208] The storage body (221) may be provided with a protruding rib (221A). The protruding rib (221A) protrudes from the storage body (221). More precisely, the protruding rib (221A) protrudes from the surface of the storage body (221) toward the surface of the mounting protrusion (65). The protruding rib (221A) can keep the storage body (221) spaced apart from the mounting protrusion (65) by a predetermined distance when the camera casing (220) is mounted on the camera bracket (210). Referring to Fig. 18, it can be seen that the protruding rib (221A) protrudes toward the mounting protrusion (65). In this way, the heat of the mounting protrusion (65) can be prevented from being directly transferred to the camera substrate (230). Therefore, the protruding rib (221A) can also be viewed as a structure for maintaining a gap. Additionally, the protruding rib (221A) can also serve to hold the sensor cover.

[0209] Referring again to FIGS. 19 and 20, the camera casing (220) is provided with a supporter portion (227). The supporter portion (227) is fixed to the camera bracket (210). For this purpose, the supporter portion (227) is provided with an assembly protrusion (228). When the assembly protrusion (228) is inserted into the first bracket hole (218) of the camera bracket (210), the camera casing (220) can be temporarily assembled to the camera bracket (210). The assembly protrusion (228) protrudes from the bottom surface of the supporter portion (227) and is configured as a pair. As another example, the supporter portion (227) may be omitted.

[0210] A supporter hole (229) may be formed through the supporter portion (227). While the supporter hole (229) is connected to the second bracket hole (219) of the camera bracket (210), the second fastener (B2) may be assembled by sequentially passing through the supporter hole (229) and the second bracket hole (219). The supporter holes (229) are configured as a pair. In another example, the supporter hole (229) may be omitted, or in another example, the entire supporter portion (227) may be omitted. In this case, the camera casing (220) may be fixed to the camera bracket (210) by being adhered to or press-fitted.

[0211] Referring to Fig. 19, the window module (WM) is arranged at the lower portion of the camera mounting portion (60). The window module (WM) is arranged at the lower portion of the camera mounting portion (60) to protect the camera module (CM). The window module (WM) may include a window frame (250) and a window panel (260) arranged on the window frame (250). The window frame (250) is mounted on the camera mounting portion (60) while fixing the window panel (260). The window frame (250) has an approximately square frame shape. The window panel (260) has a square plate structure. As another example, the window frame (250) and the window panel (260) may have various shapes, including a circular shape.

[0212] The above window module (WM) is formed with a window hole (252) that penetrates the center, and a frame extension (253) is provided on the outside of the window hole (252). A frame hole (254) is formed in the frame extension (253). The first fastener (B1) can be assembled into the fastening hole (64) of the frame fastening portion (263) after passing through the frame hole (254).

[0213] The window frame (250) may be provided with frame ribs (251, 257). The frame ribs (251, 257) are for mounting the window sealing portion (270) to be described below. The frame ribs (251, 257) surround the window sealing portion (270) and guide the mounting position of the window sealing portion (270). To this end, the frame ribs (251, 257) protrude from the surface of the window frame (250) toward the camera mounting portion (60). The frame ribs (251, 257) protrude from the mounting surface on which the window sealing portion (270) is mounted, among the surfaces of the window frame (250).

[0214] More precisely, the frame ribs (251, 257) may include a first frame rib (251) that protrudes around the edge of the window hole (252) and a second frame rib (257) that surrounds the first frame rib (251). The second frame rib (257) protrudes in the same direction as the first frame rib (251). The first frame rib (251) has a higher protruding height than the second frame rib (257).

[0215] A sealing receiving groove (255) in which the window sealing portion (270) is received may be formed between the first frame rib (251) and the second upper frame rib (257). The window sealing portion (270) may be seated in the sealing receiving groove (255). When the width of the sealing receiving groove (255) is formed to be smaller than the thickness of the window sealing portion (270), the window sealing portion (270) may be received in the sealing receiving groove (255) while being compressed and may be strongly fixed.

[0216] Referring to the enlarged view shown at the top of Fig. 8, it can be seen that the window sealing part (270) is seated in the sealing receiving groove (255). The inner surface of the window sealing part (270) is adjacent to the second frame rib (257), and the outer surface of the window sealing part (270) is adjacent to the first frame rib (251). In addition, the bottom surface of the window sealing part (270) is seated in the sealing receiving groove (255). In this state, when the window module (WM) is mounted on the camera mounting part (60), the window sealing part (270) can be compressed in the vertical direction to increase airtightness.

[0217] The surface of the camera mounting portion (60), the surface of the frame rib (251, 257), and the sealing receiving groove (255), which is the mounting surface of the frame rib (251, 257), can each surround different surfaces of the window sealing portion (270). More precisely, the bottom surface of the camera mounting portion (60) surrounds the top surface of the window sealing portion (270), the surface of the first frame rib (251) surrounds the outer circumference of the window sealing portion (270), the surface of the second frame rib (257) surrounds the inner circumference of the window sealing portion (270), and the sealing receiving groove (255) surrounds the bottom surface of the window sealing portion (270).

[0218] Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, the window sealing part (270) is mounted on the window frame (250) while wrapping around the window panel (260). The window sealing part (270) can prevent heat and moisture from leaking through the gap between the window panel (260) and the window frame (250). To this end, the window sealing part (270) is first mounted on the window frame (250) while wrapping around the window panel (260), and during this process, the window sealing part (270) is compressed to increase airtightness. As another example, the window sealing part (270) may be first coupled to the window frame (250) and then the window panel (260) may be mounted on the window frame (250).

[0219] Referring to FIG. 19, the structure of the window sealing portion (270) is shown. The window sealing portion (270) has a square frame-shaped sealing body (271) that surrounds the perimeter of the window panel (260). The perimeter of the window panel (260) refers to the surface of the edge of the window panel (260), and may include the upper surface (261A) of the window panel (260), the lower surface (261B) of the window panel (260), and the side surface (261C) of the window panel (260). To this end, a panel mounting groove (272) is sunken into the inner surface of the sealing body (271) to surround the window panel (260). The panel mounting groove (272) is continuously formed surrounding the inner surface of the sealing body (271).

[0220] A sealing protrusion (275) may be protruded from at least one of the upper and lower surfaces of the window sealing portion (270). The sealing protrusion (275) protrudes from the surface of the window sealing portion (270) in the direction in which the window sealing portion (270) is coupled to the window frame (250). Referring to the enlarged view of FIG. 8, the window sealing portion (270) includes a first sealing protrusion (275A) that protrudes toward the electrical compartment (S2) and is pressed against the surface of the camera mounting portion (60) and deformed, and a second sealing protrusion (275B) that protrudes opposite to the first sealing protrusion (275A) and is pressed against the window frame (250) and deformed. Since the window sealing portion (270) is symmetrical in the vertical direction, the first sealing protrusion (275A) and the second sealing protrusion (275B) may also have the same shape. As another example, the sealing protrusion (275) may be provided on only one of the upper or lower surfaces of the window sealing portion (270). As another example, the sealing protrusion (275) may be omitted.

[0221] The above sealing protrusion (275) may be composed of a plurality of pieces. The sealing protrusion (275) includes an inner protrusion (276) relatively close to the window hole (252) and an outer protrusion (277) provided relatively outside. The inner protrusion (276) and the outer protrusion (277) can double-seal the gap between the window frame (250) and the window panel (260).

[0222] Referring to the upper enlarged view of Fig. 8, the inner protrusion (276) and the outer protrusion (277) are pressed and compressed in the vertical direction, respectively. The inner protrusion (276) and the outer protrusion (277) are pressed and compressed against the bottom surface of the camera mounting portion (60). The inner protrusion (276) and the outer protrusion (277) can expand the sealing area by being compressed and spread out. Through this, the window sealing portion (270) can more reliably block heat and moisture from reaching the camera module (CM).

[0223] 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. Housing defining the kitchen; A kitchen room that forms a space independent from the above-mentioned kitchen and is placed on the upper part of the housing; A camera mounting part provided on the upper part of the housing and protruding from the cooking chamber toward the main chamber; and A cooking appliance comprising a camera module mounted on the camera mounting portion and acquiring an image of the cooking chamber.

2. In claim 1, the camera mounting portion protrudes in the direction of the main chamber, and a window module is arranged on the surface of the relatively sunken cooking chamber. The above window module is a cooking appliance that transmits light from the cooking chamber toward the camera module between the camera module and the cooking chamber.

3. In claim 1, the camera module is coupled to the upper portion of the camera mounting portion in the first direction, A cooking appliance in which the window module is coupled to the lower portion of the camera mounting portion in a second direction different from the first direction.

4. In claim 1, the camera mounting portion A mounting base protruding from the upper portion of the housing toward the battlefield; and It includes a mounting protrusion that further protrudes from the mounting base toward the battle chamber and has a shooting hole open; A cooking appliance in which the camera sensor of the above camera module is placed on the camera mounting portion so as to face the shooting hole.

5. A cooking appliance according to claim 4, wherein the mounting protrusion has an inclined surface inclined toward the center of the cooking chamber, and the shooting hole is opened on the inclined surface.

6. In claim 4, the mounting protrusion is provided with a plurality of inclined surfaces having different inclination angles, A cooking appliance in which, among the plurality of inclined surfaces, the inclined surface on which the shooting hole is formed has a greater inclination angle than the remaining inclined surfaces.

7. In claim 1, the camera mounting portion is formed to protrude toward the electrical compartment from the upper plate constituting the upper surface of the housing, An insulating cover forming the floor of the above-mentioned battle room is laminated on the upper part of the above-mentioned upper plate, A cooking appliance in which a cover penetration hole is formed in the above insulating cover to expose a part of the camera mounting portion to the electrical compartment.

8. In claim 1, a camera bracket is arranged in the camera mounting portion, A cooking appliance wherein the above camera module is coupled to the above camera bracket.

9. In claim 8, the camera bracket A mounting member supported by the above camera mounting member, A bracket body connected to the above-mentioned mounting member and positioned on the upper portion of the mounting protrusion provided in the camera mounting portion; The above camera module is coupled to the above bracket body, A cooking appliance in which the camera sensor of the above camera module is positioned so as to face the photographing hole formed in the above mounting protrusion.

10. In claim 8, the camera mounting portion is provided with a mounting protrusion that further protrudes from the cooking chamber toward the main chamber and has an open shooting hole. The above camera bracket is provided with a pair of mounting ends that are mounted on the above camera mounting portion, A cooking appliance in which the mounting protrusion is placed between the pair of mounting ends.

11. In claim 1, the camera module Camera casing with an open camera hole; A camera substrate housed in the above camera casing; and A cooking appliance comprising a camera sensor coupled to the camera substrate and positioned so as to face the camera hole.

12. In claim 11, the camera casing A storage body having a storage space formed to store the above camera substrate; and A cooking appliance including a supporter portion connected to the storage body and coupled to the camera mounting portion.

13. A cooking appliance according to claim 12, wherein the storage body and the supporter portion are formed to have different angles with respect to the camera mounting portion.

14. In claim 12, a camera bracket is coupled to the camera mounting portion, The above supporter part is connected to the camera bracket, A cooking appliance in which the above storage body extends in an inclined direction from the above support portion.

15. In claim 12, the storage body has an alignment protrusion protruding, An alignment hole into which the alignment protrusion is fitted is formed on the above camera substrate, A cooking appliance having a step structure for maintaining the distance between the camera sensor and the camera hole on the above alignment protrusion.

16. A cooking appliance according to claim 11, wherein the camera casing has a protruding rib protruding in the direction of the camera mounting portion, and the protruding rib maintains a distance between the surface of the camera mounting portion and the camera sensor.

17. In claim 1, the camera module is provided with a sensor cover that transmits light in the direction of the camera sensor, A cooking appliance in which the sensor cover is placed between the shooting hole of the camera mounting part and the camera sensor.

18. In claim 1, the window module is connected to the lower portion of the camera mounting portion by a first fastener that is connected in a direction from the cooking chamber toward the main chamber, A cooking appliance in which the camera module is connected to the upper portion of the camera mounting portion by a second fastener that is assembled in the direction of the cooking chamber in the electric room.

19. In claim 2, a frame fastening portion protrudes from the edge of the camera mounting portion in a direction in which the width of the camera mounting portion increases, The window frame provided in the above window module is provided with a frame extension that is coupled to the frame fastening portion. A cooking appliance in which the above frame extension protrudes in a direction away from the edge of the window frame.

20. In claim 2, the window module A window frame assembled to the above camera mounting portion and having a window hole formed in the center; A window panel arranged in the above window hole and transmitting light from the cooking room to the camera module; and A cooking appliance comprising a window sealing portion that surrounds the perimeter of the window panel and seals between the window panel and the window frame.

Images