Cooking appliance

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cooking appliance. The present invention may comprise a camera module disposed in an electronic component chamber of a housing so as to acquire images of the cooking chamber. An air guide may be disposed in the electric component chamber. The air guide may transfer outside air sucked through the air inlet to the camera module. Accordingly, the camera module may be cooled by the air inlet guided through the air guide.

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 incorporate cameras to capture the interior of the appliance. In these cases, the camera can capture images or videos of the interior even when the door is closed, providing the user with the captured images or videos. However, the interior of the appliance is extremely hot and humid, making the camera susceptible to damage.

[0006] 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.

[0007] 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.

[0008] To address this, one option might be to place the camera inside the door or on the handle of the cooking appliance, rather than in the main compartment. However, placing the camera on the door or handle not only compromises the field of view, but also reduces image quality because the camera is captured through the door.

[0009] 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 place a camera module for photographing the interior (cooking chamber) of a cooking appliance in the electric room of the cooking appliance, and to increase the durability of the camera module against the high temperature and high humidity environment of the cooking appliance.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to cool and dry the camera module by discharging outside air sucked into the battle room through an air guide to the camera module.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to concentrate some of the outside air onto the camera module through an air guide without adding a separate cooling fan for cooling the camera module.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to place the camera module on an air inlet so that the camera module can be naturally cooled.

[0013] According to a feature of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose, the present invention may include a camera module arranged in the electrical compartment of the housing to acquire an image of the cooking compartment. An air guide may be arranged in the electrical compartment. The air guide may transfer outside air drawn in through the air intake port to the camera module. Accordingly, the camera module may be cooled by the air intake port guided through the air guide.

[0014] A cooling fan for sucking in outside air may be placed in the above-mentioned electrical room. The air guide may be placed between the cooling fan and the air intake.

[0015] A guide path connected to the air intake port may be formed inside the above air guide. An outlet port open at the end of the guide path may be opened toward the camera module.

[0016] The above air guide is formed to be inclined toward the floor of the battle room, so that the guide path inside the air guide can gradually widen toward the floor of the battle room.

[0017] The above air guide may include a guide body facing the air intake port and a pair of guide sides provided on each side of the guide body. A guide path connected to the air intake port may be formed between the guide body and the pair of guide sides.

[0018] Each of the pair of guide sides may be provided with a guide leg extending in the direction in which the air intake is opened. The camera module may be arranged between the pair of guide legs.

[0019] The above pair of guide legs may be formed longer in the direction in which the air intake is opened than the lower end of the guide body.

[0020] A guide fixing member may be provided at the bottom of the above air guide. The guide fixing member may be supported on the floor of the above-mentioned electrical room.

[0021] A front wall may be erected at the edge of the above-mentioned battle chamber. The air intake may be formed by penetrating the front wall in a forward-backward direction. The air guide may be in close contact with the front wall and surround the air intake.

[0022] A guide path that guides the discharge direction of outside air sucked through the air intake port can be formed between the front wall and the air guide.

[0023] The above air guide may include a guide upper portion provided on the upper end of the guide body and laminated on the front wall. A pair of guide side portions may be respectively arranged on both sides of the guide body and may extend along the surface of the front wall.

[0024] The upper portion of the above guide may be mounted on the upper surface of the front wall. The air intake may be arranged between the pair of guide sides.

[0025] The height of the above air guide may be higher than or equal to the height of the front wall.

[0026] The above-mentioned electrical room may have a plurality of air intakes formed along the front of the electrical room. The air guide may be connected to air intakes open toward the camera module among the plurality of air intakes.

[0027] The above air guide can guide outside air in a second direction different from the first direction in which the air intakes are open.

[0028] A guide path connected to the air intake port may be formed inside the air guide. A path discharge port may be opened in the guide path to discharge outside air drawn into the air intake port. The path discharge port may be formed between the floor of the electrical room and the air guide.

[0029] Based on the height direction of the above-mentioned battle room, the camera module can be arranged to overlap the air guide.

[0030] Based on the height direction of the above-mentioned battle room, a part of the above-mentioned camera module may be arranged to overlap the above-mentioned air guide, and the remaining part of the above-mentioned camera module may be arranged at a position outside the above-mentioned air guide.

[0031] The above camera module may be arranged in an inclined direction from the direction in which the air intake is opened.

[0032] One end of the above camera module may be placed at the lower end of the air guide.

[0033] The above-mentioned electrical compartment may be equipped with an upper heater for heating the cooking chamber and an electrical compartment cooling fan for drawing air through the air intake. A cooling path passing through the camera module may be formed between the electrical compartment cooling fan and the air guide. The upper heater may be positioned outside the cooling path.

[0034] The lower end of the above air guide may be provided with a hook that is inserted into a hook hole formed in the floor of the above-mentioned electrical room. The lower end of the above-mentioned air guide may be provided with a guide fixing end that is supported on the floor of the above-mentioned electrical room.

[0035] The cooking appliance according to the present invention as discussed above has the following effects.

[0036] In the present invention, a camera module is placed in the cooking chamber of a cooking appliance to capture images of the cooking chamber. The camera module can be cooled by an air intake guided through an air guide. Therefore, the durability of the camera module can be improved.

[0037] In particular, the air guide of the present invention discharges the inhaled outside air directly toward the camera module, so the camera module can be intensively cooled by the cold outside air. Accordingly, the cooling efficiency of the camera module can be improved.

[0038] In addition, in the present invention, the camera module can be positioned on the air inlet between the air guide and the main chamber cooling fan. The camera module positioned on the air flow path discharged from the air guide toward the air inlet can be naturally cooled by the outside air. Therefore, the camera module can be effectively cooled.

[0039] Additionally, the outside air supplied by the air guide can remove moisture from the camera module as it passes through it. 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.

[0040] In particular, in the present invention, the camera module can be positioned to overlap the air guide relative to the height of the main chamber. Accordingly, air discharged through the air guide can immediately cool the camera module, and the air guide can be effectively cooled and dehumidified.

[0041] Additionally, in the present invention, the upper heater can be positioned outside the cooling path created by the air guide and the main chamber cooling fan. This reduces the heat transferred from the upper heater to the camera module.

[0042] Additionally, the camera module can be positioned obliquely, rotated by a predetermined angle relative to the forward-backward direction. This allows the camera board of the camera module to be positioned obliquely, and the outside air exhausted from the air guide can flow along the camera board into the electrical compartment. In this way, the camera board itself can function as a structure that guides airflow, thereby facilitating smooth airflow within the electrical compartment.

[0043] Additionally, in the present invention, the air guide surrounds the air intake and can directly guide incoming air. Thus, even without a separate cooling fan, the air guide can smoothly draw in outside air, effectively cooling the camera module.

[0044] Additionally, in the present invention, one end of the air guide may be secured to the upper surface of the front wall. When the air guide is secured to the upper surface of the front wall, the air guide can be stably fixed, and the front wall can also align the installation position of the air guide during the installation process.

[0045] Furthermore, in the present invention, the air guide can cooperate with the front wall to form a single, continuous guide path. Thus, the present invention utilizes the front wall in conjunction with the air guide to provide a path for introducing cold air (outside air). Therefore, the air guide structure can be relatively simplified, and its manufacturing cost can be reduced.

[0046] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a cooking appliance according to the present invention.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing the interior of a battle room constituting one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing the interior of a battle room constituting one embodiment of the present invention in cross-section.

[0054] Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing the structure of a camera module and an air guide arranged in a battle room constituting an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing the structure of an air guide constituting one embodiment of the present invention in cross-section.

[0056] Fig. 11 is an enlarged perspective view showing the structure of a camera module and an air guide arranged in a battle room constituting an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Fig. 12 is a state diagram showing air being guided through the air guide of Fig. 9.

[0058] Fig. 13 is an enlarged perspective view of an assembly portion where an air guide constituting one embodiment of the present invention is assembled in a battle room.

[0059] Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing air circulating through a first path inside a cooking appliance constituting an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Fig. 15 is a perspective view showing air circulating through a second path inside a cooking appliance constituting an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Fig. 16 is a perspective view showing air circulating through a third path inside a cooking appliance constituting an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Fig. 17 is a perspective view showing air circulating through a fourth path inside a cooking appliance constituting another embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] 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 are 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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).

[0066] 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).

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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).

[0069] 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).

[0070] 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).

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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).

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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).

[0076] 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).

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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).

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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 (not shown) 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.

[0084] 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), an upper heater (not shown), and electrical compartment cooling fans (150, 155), which will be described below, 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).

[0085] 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.

[0086] Looking at the structure of the air duct (70), one end (71) of the air duct (70) is placed in the electrical compartment (S2). One end (71) of the air duct (70) can be connected to a duct outlet (175A) formed in a connecting duct (175, see FIG. 2) of the electrical compartment. The other end (73) of the air duct (70) is coupled to the side surface (54) of the housing. More precisely, the other end (73) of the air duct (70) is connected to a cooking chamber intake port (IH) formed in the side surface (54) of the housing. Accordingly, the air of the electrical compartment (S2) moves along the air duct (70) and is then supplied into the cooking chamber (S1) through the cooking chamber intake port (IH).

[0087] 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.

[0088] Referring to Fig. 3, the appearance of the above-mentioned electrical room (S2) is illustrated in a plan view. The floor of the above-mentioned electrical room (S2) may be formed by the above-mentioned insulating cover (80). A plurality of components may be arranged on the upper portion of the above-mentioned insulating cover (80). The above-mentioned plurality of components may include an electrical room cooling fan (150, 155), heat-generating components (HP), an upper heater, and a camera module (CM).

[0089] 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).

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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).

[0095] 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) protruding in this manner. 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.

[0096] 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). As another example, either the first front compartment cooling fan (150) or the second front compartment cooling fan (155) may be omitted. As another example, the first power unit cooling fan (150) and the second power unit cooling fan (155) may be positioned outside the power unit room (S2), rather than in the power unit room (S2).

[0097] 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).

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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).

[0101] 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).

[0102] 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).

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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).

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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).

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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 is 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.

[0109] 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).

[0110] 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).

[0111] 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).

[0112] 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).

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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).

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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).

[0117] The above camera module (CM) may be arranged at a position surrounded by the air intake (103A), the electrical compartment cooling fan (150, 155), and the lighting module (140). More precisely, the camera module (CM) may be surrounded by the first air intake (102A, 103A), the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150), and the lighting module (140). As shown in Fig. 3, the first air intake (102A, 103A) is arranged at the front of the camera module (CM), the lighting module (140) is arranged at the side of the camera module (CM), and the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) is arranged at the rear of the camera module (CM). As a result, the camera module (CM) is formed to be surrounded by the surrounding components. In this way, the heat inside the above-mentioned power unit (S2), particularly the heat generated from the heater cover (180) and the heat generating components (HP) and transmitted to the camera module (CM), can be reduced.

[0118] 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).

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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).

[0121] 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).

[0122] 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).

[0123] Referring to Fig. 6, the flow of air circulating inside the cooking appliance of the present embodiment will be examined. Before this, for the 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 electrical room cooling fan (150), and the second wall (105) is arranged in front of the upper heater. One end of the second fence portion (115) constituting the guide fence (110) may be arranged between the first wall (101) and the second wall (105).

[0124] 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).

[0125] 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).

[0126] 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).

[0127] 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).

[0128] 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).

[0129] Outside air can also be introduced through the second wall (105). More precisely, the air introduced into the second wall (105) can be discharged upward through the second air intake port (106) and then flow along the upper portion of the electrical compartment (S2) (arrow ④ direction). In this process, the outside air can cool the surface of the heater cover (180). If the heater cover (180) is omitted, the outside air can directly cool the upper heater. This intake of outside air can 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) can be introduced into the second electrical compartment cooling fan (155) and then discharged (arrow ⑤ direction).

[0130] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 9, a structure in which the camera module (CM) is placed in the electrical compartment (S2) and a structure in which outside air is directed toward the camera module (CM) will be described. First, referring to FIG. 7, 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 in height 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 may be secured above the camera module (CM) through which outside air may flow.

[0131] 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).

[0132] 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).

[0133] As shown in Fig. 7, 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).

[0134] 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).

[0135] Fig. 8 illustrates a portion of the floor of the electrical room (S2) cut away. As can be seen therein, the insulating member (90) is built into the floor of the electrical room (S2) that forms the lower portion of the camera module (CM). The insulating member (90) is arranged around the camera module (CM), so as to block 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 transmitted to the camera module (CM).

[0136] The above insulating member (90) can be compressed between the bottom surface (81B) of the insulating cover (80) and the upper surface (51A) of the upper plate (51). When the insulating member (90) is compressed in this way, the heat of the cooking chamber (S1) can be more reliably blocked from being transmitted to the camera module (CM) through the member penetration hole (92). Although not shown, a portion of the camera mounting portion can protrude toward the electrical compartment (S2) through the member penetration hole (92).

[0137] As shown in Fig. 8, the window module (WM) may include a window frame (250) and a window panel (260) disposed on the window frame (250). The window frame (250) is mounted on the camera mounting portion while fixing the window panel (260). 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.

[0138] 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).

[0139] 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).

[0140] As shown in Fig. 8, 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).

[0141] The structure of the air guide (120) will be described with reference to FIG. 9. The air guide (120) has a guide body (121) that forms a skeleton. The guide body (121) may have a roughly plate-like structure. The guide body (121) may be formed in a downwardly inclined direction toward the floor of the electrical room (S2). As another example, the guide body (121) may extend in a curved shape toward the floor of the electrical room (S2). As yet another example, the guide body (121) may be formed in a vertical direction.

[0142] An upper portion of the guide body (121) may be provided with a guide upper portion (123). The upper portion of the guide (123) may have a bent shape at the top of the guide body (121). The upper portion of the guide (123) may extend in the left and right directions, which are the longitudinal directions of the front wall (100). The upper portion of the guide (123) may be connected to the front wall (100).

[0143] More precisely, the upper portion of the guide (123) can be mounted on the first wall surface (102), which is the upper surface of the first wall (101). As shown in Fig. 9, the upper portion of the guide (13) is formed with a laminated end portion (123A) that is mounted on the first wall surface (102). In this way, the upper portion of the guide (123) can prevent outside air from leaking upward through the gap between the first wall (101) and the air guide (120). In addition, the upper portion of the guide (123) can also perform a pre-assembly function by aligning the assembly position of the air guide (120) when mounting the air guide (120) to the electrical room (S2).

[0144] The guide body (121) may be provided with guide side portions (125) on both sides. The guide side portions (125) may form both sides of the air guide (120). The upper end of the guide side portion (125) may be connected to the upper portion of the guide (123), and the lower end may be connected to the floor surface of the electrical room (S2). The guide side portions (125) may guide outside air to not leak out to the side of the air guide (120) and to face the camera module (CM).

[0145] As shown in Fig. 9, in this embodiment, the upper surface (81A) of the insulating cover (80) becomes the bottom surface of the electrical room (S2). A cover penetration hole (82) surrounding the camera module (CM) is formed in the insulating cover (80). The camera mounting portion can protrude through the cover penetration hole (82).

[0146] Referring to Fig. 10, a guide path (122) is formed on the inside of the guide body (121), the guide upper portion (123), and the guide side portion (125). The guide path (122) serves as a passage for guiding outside air. The guide path (122) may be formed so that its width in the front-rear direction widens downward, i.e., toward the floor of the electrical room (S2). The camera module (CM) is arranged at the path outlet (122A), which is the exit of the guide path (122), so that outside air discharged from the guide path (122) is directly guided to the camera module (CM).

[0147] As shown in Fig. 9, a guide leg (126) may be extended from the lower end of the guide side portion (125). The guide leg (126) may extend rearward and surround the camera module (CM). The flow outlet (122A) may be formed between a pair of the guide legs (126). In the present embodiment, the guide leg (126) extends toward the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150). The guide leg (126) may also block, to some extent, the air of the electrical compartment (S2) from flowing toward the camera module (CM).

[0148] A guide fixing member (127) may be provided at the lower end of the guide side portion (125). The guide fixing member (127) may have a form that is bent in a horizontal direction at the lower end of the guide side portion (125). The guide fixing member (127) may be laminated on the floor of the electrical room (S2). In the present embodiment, the guide fixing member (127) is secured to a wall support member (104) provided at the lower end of the front wall (100). In addition, the guide fixing member (127) and the wall support member (104) may be fastened to the insulation cover (80) by a third fastener (B3). In another example, the guide fixing member (127) may be omitted.

[0149] Referring to Fig. 11, the air guide (120) may be provided with a catch (126). The catch (126) is provided on a guide side (125) that is disposed opposite the guide side (125) on which the guide fixing end (127) is provided, among the guide side parts (125). That is, the catch (126) is provided on the opposite side of the guide fixing end (127). The catch (126) may have a bent shape at the lower end of the guide side part (125). The catch (126) is inserted into the catch hole (89) of the insulating cover (80). The catch (126) of the air guide (120) may be caught on the catch hole (89) so that the air guide (120) may be temporarily assembled to the insulating cover (80).

[0150] Looking at the process of assembling the air guide (120) to the electrical room (S2), first, the hook end (126) is fitted into the hook hole (89). At this time, the guide fixing end (127) on the opposite side of the air guide (120) can be lifted off the floor of the camera installation area (A4) so ​​that the hook end (126) can be easily fitted into the hook hole (89). In this state, when the air guide (120) rotates in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 11, the guide fixing end (127) can be seated on the upper part of the wall support end (104). That is, when the entire air guide (120) is rotated so that the guide fixing end (127) faces the wall support end (104), the guide fixing end (127) of the air guide (120) is laminated on the wall support end (104). When the third fastener (B3) is assembled in this state, the guide fixing member (127) and the wall support member (104) can be fastened together to the insulation cover (80). For reference, in Fig. 11, the drawing reference numeral 83 is a hook that can be hung on a hook hole (108) formed in the front wall (100) to fix the front wall (100).

[0151] Referring to Fig. 12, the process of guiding outside air through the air guide (120) will be described. First, when the first electrical room cooling fan (150) is operated, outside air can be sucked in toward the electrical room (S2) through the first upper vent hole (43A) of the front frame (40) arranged in front of the electrical room (S2). The air sucked in this way is transferred to the first wall (101) of the front wall (100). The air transferred to the first wall (101) can flow forward from the inside of the first wall (101), that is, into the electrical room (S2). The outside air flows into the electrical room (S2) through the front intake port (103A) formed in the first wall (101).

[0152] At this time, a part of the front intake port (103A) is covered by the air guide (120), so that outside air can be supplied into the air guide (120). The flow of outside air supplied into the air guide (120) is represented by a dotted line. Outside air flowing along the guide passage (122, see FIG. 10) formed inside the air guide (120) is discharged through the passage outlet (122A), which is the outlet of the guide passage (122). At this time, the camera module (CM) is arranged below the passage outlet (122A), so that the outside air discharged from the passage outlet (122A) is directly guided to the camera module (CM). Accordingly, the camera module (CM) can be cooled while exchanging heat with the outside air. In addition, the outside air can also dry the camera module (CM).

[0153] Referring to Fig. 13, the air guide (120) and the camera module (CM) are shown in an enlarged state. The camera module (CM) may be disposed below the flow outlet (122A). At this time, the camera module (CM) may be disposed at an angle toward the flow outlet (122A). More precisely, the camera casing (220) constituting the camera module (CM) is not disposed in a horizontal direction, but is disposed at an angle to face the flow outlet (122A). Accordingly, the camera substrate (230) provided in the camera casing (220) also faces the flow outlet (122A). In this way, the camera substrate (230) that generates the most heat and the camera sensor (not shown) disposed on the camera substrate (230) can be effectively cooled by the outside air discharged to the flow outlet (122A).

[0154] At least a portion of the camera module (CM) may be arranged to overlap the air guide (120) in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). A portion of the camera module (CM) overlaps the air guide (120) in the height direction of the camera installation area (A4). In the present embodiment, a portion of the camera module (CM) is arranged below the flow path outlet (122A), and the remaining portion is arranged to extend beyond the lower portion of the flow path outlet (122A). In this way, the air discharged to the flow path outlet (122A) can flow along the inclined plane formed by the surface of the camera substrate (230), and in the process, the camera substrate (230) and the camera sensor can be naturally cooled.

[0155] The above camera module (CM) can be rotated counterclockwise with respect to the forward / reverse direction and placed obliquely. In this way, the camera substrate (230) of the camera module (CM) is also placed obliquely, and outside air can flow into the camera installation area (A4) along the camera substrate (230). In other words, the camera substrate (230) itself becomes a kind of guide plate that guides the air flow.

[0156] 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. The camera module (CM) can include a camera casing (220) and a camera substrate (230) accommodated in the camera casing (220). The camera sensor 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.

[0157] Referring to Fig. 13, the 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).

[0158] The above storage body (221) may be provided with a fixing hook (225). The fixing hook (225) is arranged around the edge of the storage space (not indicated in the drawing) 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). Drawing reference numeral 226 represents 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).

[0159] 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 long in one direction, similar to the camera substrate (230). Drawing reference numeral 245 indicates a component mounted on the camera substrate (230), which may include a connector.

[0160] Referring to Fig. 8, a camera hole (222) may be formed in the storage body (221). The camera hole (222) is formed by penetrating the bottom of the storage body (221). The camera hole (222) is a hole for taking pictures and is opened at a position corresponding to the camera sensor. 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 body (221) may be opened.

[0161] Referring again to FIG. 13, an alignment protrusion (224) may protrude from the storage space of the storage body (221). The alignment protrusion (224) protrudes outward from the storage space. The alignment protrusion (224) is fitted into an alignment hole (not given a drawing symbol) formed in the camera substrate (230). When the alignment protrusion (224) is fitted into the alignment hole, the camera substrate (230) is seated at an accurate position within the storage space. The alignment protrusion (224) and the alignment hole 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 may be omitted.

[0162] FIGS. 14 to 16 illustrate the flow of air inside and outside a cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention. First, FIG. 14 illustrates the air flow when the magnetron (170) is in microwave mode. As can be seen, when the first electrical chamber cooling fan (150) is operated, outside air can be sucked in toward the electrical chamber (S2) (in the direction of arrow ①) through the first upper vent hole (43A) among the upper vent holes (43) of the front frame (40) arranged in the front of the electrical chamber (S2). The air sucked in in this way can enter the interior of the electrical chamber (S2) through the front intake port (103A) formed in the first wall (101) among the front walls (100).

[0163] Some of the outside air sucked in through the front intake (103A) can be directly guided to the air guide (120) to cool and dry the camera module (CM). The remaining outside air flows in the direction of the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) (arrow ② direction) and is discharged by the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) toward the heat-generating components (HP) such as the magnetron (170) (arrow ③ direction). The air heated while cooling the heat-generating components (HP) is transferred to the air duct (70) through one end (71) of the air duct (70) and can move along the air duct (70) (arrow ④ direction).

[0164] The air passing through the air duct (70) can be delivered into the cooking chamber (S1) through the other end (73) of the air duct (70). The air delivered to the cooking chamber (S1) can also cool the window module (WM) by flowing in the direction of the arrow ⑤) toward the window module (WM) disposed on the ceiling of the cooking chamber (S1).

[0165] The air flowing in the above cooking chamber (S1) is discharged in the direction of the second connecting space (S5) (arrow ⑥) through the cooking chamber outlet (OH) and the exhaust guide (not shown) covering the cooking chamber outlet (OH). The air in the second connecting space (S5) is collected in the exhaust space (S3) formed at the bottom, and can then be finally discharged through the lower vent hole (44) (arrow ⑦).

[0166] Fig. 15 shows the airflow when the convection heater is in convection mode. As can be seen, when the first electrical room cooling fan (150) is operated, outside air can be sucked in toward the electrical room (S2) (in the direction of arrow ①) through the first upper vent hole (43A) among the upper vent holes (43) of the front frame (40) arranged at the front of the electrical room (S2). The air sucked in in this way can enter the interior of the electrical room (S2) through the front intake port (103A) formed in the first wall (101) among the front walls (100).

[0167] Some of the outside air sucked in through the front intake (103A) can be directly guided to the air guide (120) to cool and dry the camera module (CM). The remaining outside air flows in the direction of the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) (arrow ② direction) and is discharged by the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) toward the heat-generating components (HP) (arrow ③ direction). The air heated while cooling the heat-generating components (HP) moves toward the rear cover (31) and is delivered to the convection installation space (32).

[0168] The air that cools the convection heater while passing through the convection installation space (32) is transferred to the lower exhaust space (S3). The air transferred in this way can ultimately be discharged through the lower vent hole (44) (arrow ④ direction).

[0169] Fig. 16 shows the airflow when the upper heater is in high-speed cooking mode. For reference, in high-speed cooking mode, the lower heater and the convection heater may also be operated together with the upper heater. As seen here, when the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) is operated, outside air can be sucked in toward the electrical compartment (S2) (in the direction of arrow ①) through the first upper vent hole (43A) among the upper vent holes (43) of the front frame (40) arranged in the front of the electrical compartment (S2). The air sucked in in this way can enter the interior of the electrical compartment (S2) through the front intake port (103A) formed in the first wall (101) among the front walls (100).

[0170] Some of the outside air sucked in through the front intake (103A) is directly guided to the air guide (120) to cool and dry the camera module (CM). The remaining outside air flows in the direction of the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) (arrow ② direction) and is discharged by the first electrical compartment cooling fan (150) toward the heat-generating components (HP) (arrow ③ direction). The flow (arrow ④ direction) for cooling the convection heater is the same as above, so its description will be omitted.

[0171] Meanwhile, in the high-speed cooking mode, the second main chamber cooling fan (155) also operates, thereby allowing outside air to enter the second upper vent hole (43B). At this time, the rear of the first upper vent hole (43A) is blocked by the second wall (105) among the front walls (100), and the second wall (105) does not have a front intake port (103A). Therefore, the outside air is guided upward (in the direction of arrow ⑥) through the second air intake port (106). This flow can be referenced to arrow ④ in Fig. 6.

[0172] Outside air flowing along the upper portion of the above-described electrical room (S2) can cool the heater cover (180). The air that cools the heater cover (180) flows in the direction of the second electrical room cooling fan (155) (arrow ⑦ direction). The second electrical room cooling fan (155) sucks in air and then discharges it in the direction of the second connection space (S5). The air of the second connection space (S5) can be collected in the discharge space (S3) formed at the bottom and then finally discharged through the lower vent hole (44) (arrow ⑧ direction).

[0173] In this way, regardless of the mode in which the cooking appliance is operated, the inhaled outside air can first cool the camera module (CM). Therefore, the camera module (CM) can be prevented from overheating and malfunction due to moisture.

[0174] Meanwhile, Fig. 17 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. The same parts as in Fig. 14 will be omitted for explanation. A partition plate (74) may be provided inside the air duct (70). The partition plate (74) may partition the internal path of the air duct (70). Some of the paths thus partitioned are opened toward the center of the cooking chamber (S1), and other parts are opened toward the upper portion of the cooking chamber (S1). The path opened toward the upper portion of the cooking chamber (S1) is directed toward the window module (WM). Therefore, the window module (WM) can be intensively cooled by the air duct (70).

[0175] 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 battle room formed on the upper part of the housing and having an air intake for sucking in outside air; A camera module placed in the above-mentioned battle room to obtain images of the above-mentioned cooking room; and A cooking appliance comprising an air guide disposed in the above-mentioned room and transmitting outside air sucked through the air intake port to the camera module.

2. In claim 1, a cooling fan for sucking outside air is placed in the main body room, A cooking appliance in which the above air guide is placed between the above-mentioned cooling fan and the above-mentioned air intake.

3. In claim 1, a guide path connected to the air intake port is formed inside the air guide, A cooking appliance in which the open euro outlet at the end of the above guide euro opens toward the camera module.

4. In claim 1, the air guide is formed to be inclined toward the floor of the electric room, so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the guide path formed inside the air guide gradually increases toward the floor of the electric room.

5. In claim 1, the air guide A guide body facing the above air intake; and A pair of guide sides provided on each side of the above guide body; A cooking appliance in which a guide path connected to the air intake is formed between the guide body and the pair of guide sides.

6. In claim 5, each of the pair of guide sides is provided with a guide leg extending in the direction in which the air intake is opened. A cooking appliance in which the camera module is placed between a pair of said guide legs.

7. A cooking appliance according to claim 1, wherein the pair of guide legs is formed longer in the direction in which the air intake is opened than the lower end of the guide body.

8. In claim 1, a guide fixing member is provided at the bottom of the air guide, The above guide fixing member is a cooking appliance supported on the floor of the above-mentioned power room.

9. In claim 1, a front wall is erected at the edge of the battle room, The above air intake is formed by penetrating the front wall in the front-back direction, A cooking appliance in which the air guide is in close contact with the front wall and surrounds the air intake.

10. A cooking appliance according to claim 9, wherein a guide path is formed between the front wall and the air guide to guide the discharge direction of the outside air sucked through the air intake port.

11. In claim 9, the air guide A guide body facing the front wall; A guide upper portion provided on the upper part of the above guide body and laminated on the front wall; and A cooking appliance comprising a pair of guide sides, each positioned on both sides of the guide body and extending along the surface of the front wall.

12. In claim 11, the upper portion of the guide is mounted on the upper surface of the front wall, A cooking appliance in which the air intake is positioned between the pair of guide sides.

13. A cooking appliance according to claim 9, wherein the height of the air guide is higher than or equal to the height of the front wall.

14. In claim 1, a plurality of air intakes are formed along the front of the electrical room, A cooking appliance in which the air guide is connected to air intakes open toward the camera module among the plurality of air intakes.

15. A cooking appliance according to claim 1, wherein the air guide guides outside air in a second direction different from the first direction in which the air intakes are open.

16. In claim 1, a guide path connected to the air intake port is formed inside the air guide, In the above guide passage, a passage discharge port is opened to discharge outside air drawn into the air intake port. A cooking appliance in which the above Euro outlet is formed between the floor of the above-mentioned room and the above-mentioned air guide.

17. A cooking appliance according to claim 1, wherein the camera module is arranged to overlap the air guide in the height direction of the main chamber.

18. A cooking appliance according to claim 1, wherein a portion of the camera module is positioned to overlap the air guide in the height direction of the main chamber, and the remaining portion of the camera module is positioned outside the air guide.

19. In claim 1, the camera module is arranged in a direction inclined from the direction in which the air intake is opened, A cooking appliance in which one end of the above camera module is placed at the bottom of the above air guide.

20. In claim 1, the electric power room is provided with an upper heater for heating the cooking chamber and an electric power room cooling fan for sucking air through the air intake. A cooling path passing through the camera module is formed between the above-mentioned battlefield cooling fan and the above-mentioned air guide. A cooking appliance wherein the upper heater is positioned outside the cooling path.

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