Cooking appliance including display window and manufacturing method thereof

Abstract

This cooking appliance may comprise: a first plate which includes one or more heating zones configured for the placement of cookware, and has an opening; a second plate positioned within the opening of the first plate; a display configured to output visual information through the second plate; and a sealing material interposed between an edge of the first plate and an edge of the second plate, wherein the edge of the first plate defines the opening. The edge of the first plate may include a rounded surface. The edge of the second plate may include a flat surface.

Description

Cooking appliance including a display window and method for manufacturing the same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cooking appliance including a display window and a method for manufacturing the same.

[0002] Induction devices that utilize induction heating as a heat source for generating heat are being used. The induction devices may include, for example, a cooking appliance. The cooking appliance may include a cooking surface on which a cooking utensil, such as a pot, is placed. The cooking surface of the cooking appliance may include a heating zone (or cooking zone) capable of heating the cooking utensil, and a display area for displaying various information.

[0003] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art in connection with the present disclosure.

[0004] In one embodiment, a cooking appliance may include a first plate having an opening, the first plate including one or more heating zones configured to place a cooking utensil therein; a second plate positioned within the opening of the first plate; a display configured to output visual information through the second plate; and a sealing material interposed between an edge of the first plate defining the opening and an edge of the second plate. The edge of the first plate may include a rounded surface. The edge of the second plate may include a flat surface.

[0005] In one embodiment, a method of manufacturing a cooking appliance may include: attaching a tape on a first plate so as to cover the opening of the first plate; attaching a second plate to the tape so as to be positioned within the opening of the first plate; injecting a sealing material into a gap between the edge of the first plate and the edge of the second plate positioned within the opening of the first plate; curing the sealing material injected into the gap; and removing the tape after curing the sealing material.

[0006] Figure 1 illustrates a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0007] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0008] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a joint between a first plate and a second plate of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 5 is a graph showing a surface profile of a sealing material according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a bracket of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a joint of a first plate, a second plate, and a bracket of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the top plate of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0015] Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 11, FIG. 12, FIG. 13, FIG. 14, and FIG. 15 are drawings showing a method of manufacturing a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0017] In the description referring to the drawings below, the same reference numerals may be assigned to substantially identical or similar components, and overlapping descriptions of components having the same reference numerals may not be repeated. In the description referring to specific drawings below, reference numerals of other drawings may be referenced.

[0018] Figure 1 illustrates a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0019] Referring to FIG. 1, according to one embodiment, a cooking appliance (1) may include a frame (or body) (180) forming the exterior of the cooking appliance (1) and a top plate (or top plate assembly) (100). The top plate (100) may be positioned on the frame (180) (e.g., in the +z direction). For example, the top plate (100) may be placed on the frame (180) and supported by the frame (180).

[0020] In one embodiment, the top plate (100) may include a first plate (110), a second plate (120), and a sealing material (or sealing member) (130). The first plate (110) and the second plate (120) may be joined through the sealing material (130) disposed therebetween.

[0021] The top plate (100) and the frame (180) can be coupled to each other to form an internal space capable of accommodating various components of the cooking device (1). For example, one or more induction heating coils can be arranged in the internal space. For example, the one or more induction heating coils can be arranged below (e.g., in the -z direction) the first plate (110). The one or more induction heating coils can generate a magnetic field for inductively heating a cooking utensil (e.g., a cooking utensil (190)) placed on the top plate (100) (e.g., the first plate (110)). For example, a display module (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 2) can be arranged in the internal space. For example, the display module can be arranged below (e.g., in the -z direction) the second plate (120) of the top plate (100). The above display module may be configured to output visual information related to the status and / or operation of the cooking appliance (1) through the second plate (120).

[0022] The top plate (100) may include a first surface (e.g., front or top surface) (100A) on which a cooking utensil (190) may be positioned. The first surface (100A) of the top plate (100) may be formed at least partially by a first plate (110), a second plate (120), and a sealing material (130). The first plate (110) may include one or more heating zones aligned with respect to the one or more induction heating coils. The first plate (110) may include one or more guides, such as guides (154a, 154b, and 154c), to indicate the one or more heating zones. The top plate (100) may be referred to as a hob or a hob assembly.

[0023] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0024] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, according to one embodiment, the first plate (110) may include an opening (115). The opening (115) may be a hole penetrating the first plate (110). The second plate (120) may be positioned within the opening (115) of the first plate (110). The second plate (120) within the opening (115) of the first plate (110) may be spaced apart from the first plate (110). A sealing material (130) may be disposed between the first plate (110) and the second plate (120).

[0025] A cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment may include a display module (160). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display panel configured to output light, a control circuit for controlling the display panel, and a housing for accommodating the display panel. The display panel of the display module (160) may further include a touch sensor configured to detect a user's touch input and / or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch input.

[0026] The display module (160) can be aligned with respect to the second plate (120). For example, the display module (160) can be positioned below the second plate (120) (e.g., in the -z direction). For example, the display module (160) can be attached to the back surface (e.g., the surface in the -z direction) of the second plate (120). A material such as a sponge to cushion impact or prevent foreign matter from entering can be interposed between the display module (160) and the second plate (120), but is not limited thereto.

[0027] Light output from the display module (160) can be transmitted to the outside through the second plate (120). In this respect, the second plate (120) can be referred to as a window, a display window, or an optical window.

[0028] The first plate (110) may have strength, hardness, and heat resistance that can reduce or prevent physical impact and heat damage caused by cooking utensils placed on the first plate (110). For example, the first plate (110) may be formed of ceramic glass. For example, the first plate (110) may be formed of substantially opaque ceramic glass (e.g., black ceramic glass).

[0029] The second plate (120) may be configured to transmit light from the display module (160). For example, the second plate (120) may be substantially transparent. In one embodiment, the second plate (120) may have strength and hardness that can reduce or prevent damage due to user input or unintentional contact with cooking utensils. For example, the second plate (120) may be formed of substantially transparent ceramic glass. Alternatively, the second plate (120) may be formed of substantially transparent glass. Alternatively, the second plate (120) may be formed of substantially transparent plastic.

[0030] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a joint between a first plate and a second plate of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. Fig. 5 is a graph showing a surface profile of a sealing material according to one embodiment.

[0031] Referring to FIG. 4, in one embodiment, the top plate (100) may include a first surface (100A) and a second surface (e.g., a back surface or bottom surface) (100B). The second surface (100B) may be opposite the first surface (100A). For example, the first surface (100A) may face a first direction (e.g., a +z direction), and the second surface (100B) may face a second direction (e.g., a -z direction) opposite to the first direction.

[0032] In one embodiment, the first plate (110) may include a first surface (e.g., a front or top surface) (110A) and a second surface (e.g., a back or bottom surface) (110B) opposite the first surface (110A).

[0033] In one embodiment, the second plate (120) may include a first side (e.g., a front or top side) (120A) and a second side (e.g., a back or bottom side) (120B) opposite the first side (120A).

[0034] In one embodiment, the sealing material (130) may include a first side (e.g., a front or top side) (130A) and a second side (e.g., a back or bottom side) (130B) opposite the first side (130A).

[0035] In one embodiment, the first side (100A) of the top plate (100) may include a first side (110A) of a first plate (110), a first side (120A) of a second plate (120), and a first side (130A) of a sealing material (130).

[0036] In one embodiment, the second side (100B) of the top plate (100) may include a second side (110B) of the first plate (110), a second side (120B) of the second plate (120), and a second side (130B) of the sealing material (130).

[0037] In one embodiment, the first plate (110) may include an edge (110E) extending from a portion of an edge of the first face (110A) to a portion of an edge of the second face (110B). The edge (110E) of the first plate (110) may define an opening (115) of the first plate (110) within which the second plate (120) is positioned.

[0038] In one embodiment, the second plate (120) can include an edge (120E) that extends from a portion of an edge of the first face (120A) to a portion of an edge of the second face (120B). The edge (120E) of the second plate (120) can be spaced apart from the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) and can face the edge (110E) of the first plate (110). Additionally or alternatively, the second plate (120) can include one or more coating layers that form at least a portion of the first face (120A). The one or more coating layers can include, for example, but not limited to, at least one of a scratch-resistant coating, an anti-reflective coating, and / or an anti-fingerprint coating.

[0039] In one embodiment, the sealing material (130) may be at least partially disposed within a gap (g) between an edge (110E) of the first plate (110) and an edge (120E) of the second plate (120). For example, the sealing material (130) may be interposed between an edge (110E) of the first plate (110) and an edge (120E) of the second plate (120).

[0040] In one embodiment, the first side (130A) of the sealing material (130) can extend from a portion of the edge of the first side (110A) of the first plate (110) to a portion of the edge of the first side (120A) of the second plate (120). For example, the first side (130A) of the sealing material (130) can extend substantially seamlessly or without a step from the portion of the edge of the first side (110A) of the first plate (110). For example, the first side (130A) of the sealing material (130) can extend substantially seamlessly or without a step from the portion of the edge of the first side (120A) of the second plate (120).

[0041] In one embodiment, the second side (130B) of the sealing material (130) can extend from a portion of the edge of the second side (110B) of the first plate (110) to a portion of the edge of the second side (120B) of the second plate (120). For example, the second side (130B) of the sealing material (130) can extend substantially seamlessly or without a substantial step from a portion of the edge of the second side (110B) of the first plate (110). For example, the second side (130B) of the sealing material (130) can extend substantially seamlessly or without a substantial step from a portion of the edge of the second side (120B) of the second plate (120).

[0042] In one embodiment, the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) may include a rounded surface. For example, the rounded surface of the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) may have a radius of curvature (R). The radius of curvature (R) may be, for example, greater than or equal to about 50% and less than or equal to about 200% of the thickness (t) of the first plate (110). The thickness (t) of the first plate (110) may be, for example, greater than or equal to about 3 mm and less than or equal to about 7 mm. The rounded surface of the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) may reduce a decrease in strength and hardness of the first plate (110) due to forming an opening (115) in the first plate (110).

[0043] In one embodiment, the edge (120E) of the second plate (120) may include a flat surface (125). By having the edge (120E) of the second plate (120) include the flat surface (125), the section (g1) of the first surface (130A) of the sealing material (130) visible from the outside may be reduced. The section (g1) of the first surface (130A) may be reduced as the radius of curvature (R) of the rounded surface of the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) increases. The length of the section (g1) of the first surface (130A) of the sealing material (130) may be, for example, not limited to, about 0.9 mm or more and about 1.5 mm.

[0044] In one embodiment, the edge (120E) of the second plate (120) may further include a first chamfered surface (121) and / or a second chamfered surface (122). The first chamfered surface (121) may extend, for example, from a first edge of a flat surface (125) of the second plate (120) to a portion of the edge of the first surface (120A) of the second plate (120). The second chamfered surface (122) may extend, for example, from a second edge of a flat surface (125) of the second plate (120) to a portion of the edge of the second surface (120B) of the second plate (120). The first chamfered surface (121) can improve the hardness of an edge portion of the first surface (120A) of the second plate (120) (e.g., a portion where the first surface (120A) and the edge (120E) meet). The second chamfered surface (122) can improve the hardness of an edge portion of the second surface (120A) of the second plate (120) (e.g., a portion where the second surface (120B) and the edge (120E) meet).

[0045] When the edge (120E) of the second plate (120) includes a first chamfered surface (121), the first surface (130A) of the sealing material (130) may further include a section (g2). The section (g2) of the first surface (130A) extends from the section (g1) of the first surface (130A), contacts the first chamfered surface (121), and is visible from the outside of the cooking appliance (1). The section (g2) of the first surface (130A) may be, for example, about 0.2 mm without limitation.

[0046] In one embodiment, the glossiness of the first side (130A) of the sealing material (130) may be different from the glossiness of the second side (130B) of the sealing material (130). For example, the glossiness of the first side (130A) of the sealing material (130) may be lower than the glossiness of the second side (130B) of the sealing material (130). For example, the first side (130A) of the sealing material (130) may be formed to be substantially matte. For example, but not limited to, the second side (130B) of the sealing material (130) may be formed to be substantially glossy.

[0047] In one embodiment, the first side (130A) of the sealing material (130) may include a sunken region. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, which illustrates a surface profile of the sealing material (130), the first side (130A) of the sealing material (130) may have a sunken surface shape in the middle portion. For example, the first side (130A) of the sealing material (130) may include a sunken region relative to the first side (110A) of the first plate (110) and the first side (120A) of the second plate (120). For example, the first side (130A) of the sealing material (130) may include a sunken region toward the second side (130B) opposite to the first side (130A) (e.g., in the -z direction). For example, but not limited to, the depth of the sunken region of the first surface (130A) of the sealing material (130) based on the first surface (110A) of the first plate (110) and the first surface (120A) of the second plate (120) may be from about 50 μm to about 150 μm. Alternatively or optionally, the first surface (130A) of the sealing material (130) may be formed to be substantially flat.

[0048] In one embodiment, the second side (130B) of the sealing material (130) may include a sunken region. For example, the second side (130B) of the sealing material (130) may include a sunken region relative to the second side (110B) of the first plate (110) and the second side (120B) of the second plate (120). For example, the second side (130B) of the sealing material (130) may include a sunken region toward the first side (130A) opposite the second side (130B) (e.g., in the +z direction). For example, but not limited to, the depth of the sunken region of the second surface (130B) of the sealing material (130) based on the second surface (110B) of the first plate (110) and the second surface (120B) of the second plate (120) may be from about 50 μm to about 150 μm. Alternatively or optionally, the second surface (130B) of the sealing material (130) may be formed to be substantially flat.

[0049] For example, but not limited to, the sealing material (130) may be formed of a resin. For example, but not limited to, the sealing material (130) may be formed of a thermosetting resin. For example, but not limited to, the sealing material (130) may include epoxy.

[0050] In one embodiment, the sealing material (130) may have a shore hardness D of about 20 or more and about 60 or less. By having such a shore hardness, the sealing material (130) may have improved unity with the first plate (110) (or second plate (120)) having a high hardness. If the hardness of the sealing material (130) is less than a certain value (e.g., 20 shore hardness D), the sealing material (130) may be torn off by use of the cooking appliance (1) (e.g., by a user's fingernail, etc.). If the hardness of the sealing material (130) is greater than a certain value (e.g., 60 Shore hardness D), the first plate (110) and the second plate (120) may be damaged due to the force (e.g., tensile force) that the heat-cured sealing material (130) exerts on the first plate (110) and the second plate (120).

[0051] Optionally, a portion of the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) and a portion of the edge (120E) of the second plate (120) facing each other may be formed as the edge (910E) of the first plate (910) and the edge (920E) of the second plate (920), which will be described later.

[0052] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. Fig. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a bracket of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a joint portion of a first plate, a second plate, and a bracket of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 6, according to one embodiment, the cooking device (1) may further include a bracket (140). The bracket (140) may be positioned below the top plate (100) (e.g., in the -z direction). For example, the bracket (140) may be attached to the second surface (100B) of the top plate (100). For example, the bracket (140) may be attached to the top plate (100) via a sealing material (130). In one embodiment, the display module (160) may be at least partially accommodated within the hollow portion (145) of the bracket (140).

[0054] Referring to FIG. 7, according to one embodiment, a bracket (140) may include a bottom portion (or base portion) (146), a first rib (141), a second rib (142), and a third rib (143). The bottom portion (146) may have a plate shape in which a hollow (145) is formed, but is not limited thereto.

[0055] The first rib (141) may protrude from a first surface (e.g., a surface facing the +z direction) of the bottom portion (146). For example, the first rib (141) may extend in a vertical direction (e.g., in the +z direction) from the first surface of the bottom portion (146). The first rib (141) may extend along an outer boundary of the bottom portion (146) in a horizontal direction (e.g., in directions perpendicular to the z axis).

[0056] The second rib (142) may protrude from the first surface of the bottom portion (146). For example, the second rib (142) may extend vertically (e.g., in the +z direction) from the first surface of the bottom portion (146). The second rib (142) may extend along the inner boundary of the bottom portion (146) or the boundary of the hollow (145) in the horizontal direction (e.g., in directions perpendicular to the z axis). The second rib (142) may define at least a portion of the thickness or height of the hollow (145) of the bracket (140). The second rib (142) may be spaced apart from the first rib (141).

[0057] The third rib (143) may protrude from the first surface of the bottom portion (146). For example, the third rib (143) may extend in a vertical direction (e.g., in the +z direction) from the first surface of the bottom portion (146). The third rib (143) may be positioned between the first rib (141) and the second rib (142). The third rib (143) may be spaced apart from the first rib (141) and the second rib (142). The third rib (143) may extend along the first rib (141) and the second rib (142) (e.g., in a horizontal direction).

[0058] The bracket (140) can define a first space (s1) between the first rib (141) and the third rib (143) and a second space (s2) between the second rib (142) and the third rib (143). The first space (s1) can be defined, for example, by a portion of the first surface of the bottom portion (146), the first rib (141), and the third rib (143). The second space (s2) can be defined, for example, by another portion of the first surface of the bottom portion (146), the second rib (142), and the third rib (143).

[0059] According to one embodiment, the bracket (140) may further include one or more connecting ribs (144). Each of the one or more connecting ribs (144) may protrude from the first surface of the bottom portion (146). Each of the one or more connecting ribs (144) may extend from the first rib (141) to the third rib (143), thereby connecting them. By the one or more connecting ribs (144), the first space (s1) between the first rib (141) and the third rib (143) may be divided into a plurality of sub-spaces.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 8, the bottom portion (146) of the bracket (140) can be spaced apart from the first plate (110) and the second plate (120). The first rib (141) of the bracket (140) can extend from the bottom portion (146) to the second surface (110B) of the first plate (110). The second rib (142) of the bracket (140) can extend from the bottom portion (146) to the second surface (120B) of the second plate (120).

[0061] In one embodiment, the third rib (143) of the bracket (140) may extend from the bottom portion (146) to the inside of the gap (g) between the first plate (110) and the second plate (120). The third rib (143) may be formed higher than the first rib (141) and the second rib (142). The third rib (143) may be spaced apart from the first plate (110) and the second plate (120). For example, the distal end of the third rib (143) may be located inside the gap (g) and spaced apart from the first plate (110) and the second plate (120). The distal end of the third rib (143) may have a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases as it goes toward the inside of the gap (g) (e.g., in the +z direction).

[0062] By the third rib (143) being spaced apart from the first plate (110), the gap (g) between the first plate (110) and the second plate (120) can be connected to the first space (s1) of the bracket (140). By the third rib (143) being spaced apart from the second plate (120), the gap (g) between the first plate (110) and the second plate (120) can be connected to the second space (s2) of the bracket (140). The third rib (143) inserted into the gap (g) can push the sealing material (130) into the gap (g), and the excess sealing material (130) can flow into the first space (s1) and the second space (s2) connected to the gap (g). The sealing material (130) flowing into the first space (s1) is blocked by the first rib (141) of the bracket (140) in contact with the first plate (110), and thus may not leak out of the bracket (140). The sealing material (130) flowing into the second space (s2) is blocked by the second rib (142) of the bracket (140) in contact with the second plate (120), and thus may not leak out of the bracket (140).

[0063] By partially inserting the third rib (143) of the bracket (140) into the inside of the gap (g), the bonding force between the first plate (110) and the second plate (120) through the sealing material (130) can be improved. In addition, by attaching the bracket (140) to the lower side of the upper plate (100) (e.g., the second surface (100B) of the upper plate (100)) across the first plate (110) and the second plate (120), the second plate (120) can be prevented from being detached downward (e.g., in the -z direction).

[0064] The sealing material (130) may be at least partially disposed within the space between the first plate (110), the second plate (120), and the bracket (140). For example, the sealing material (130) may be disposed within the gap (g) between the first plate (110) and the second plate (120). For example, the sealing material (130) may be disposed within at least a portion of the first space (s1) between the first plate (110) and the bracket (140). The bonding force between the first plate (110) and the bracket (140) may be enhanced by the sealing material (130) within the first space (s1). However, depending on the amount of the excess sealing material (130), the sealing material (130) may not be present within the first space (s1). The sealing material (130) may be disposed, for example, within at least a portion of the second space (s2) between the second plate (120) and the bracket (140). The bonding force between the second plate (120) and the bracket (140) may be enhanced by the sealing material (130) within the second space (s2). However, depending on the amount of the excess sealing material (130), the sealing material (130) may not be present within the second space (s2).

[0065] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the top plate of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 9, a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment may include a top plate (900) including a first surface (900A) and a second surface (900B). With respect to the top plate (900), the first surface (900A) and the second surface (900B) of the top plate (900), the description provided with reference to the top plate (100), the first surface (100A) and the second surface (100B) of the top plate (100) may be applied in a substantially identical, similar, or corresponding manner.

[0067] In one embodiment, the top plate (900) may include a first plate (910), a second plate (920) positioned within an opening (915) of the first plate (910), and a sealing material (930) interposed within a gap (e.g., gap (g)) between the first plate (910) and the second plate (920). The description provided with reference to the first plate (110), the second plate (120), and the sealing material (130) may be applied substantially identically, similarly, or in a corresponding manner to the first plate (910), the second plate (920), and the sealing material (930).

[0068] In one embodiment, the first plate (910) may include an opening (915), a first side (910A), and a second side (910B). The description provided with reference to the opening (115), the first side (110A), and the second side (110B) of the first plate (910) may be applied in a substantially identical, similar, or corresponding manner to the opening (915), the first side (910A), and the second side (910B) of the first plate (910).

[0069] In one embodiment, the second plate (920) may include a first side (920A) and a second side (920B). The description provided with reference to the first side (120A) and the second side (120B) of the second plate (920) may be applied to the first side (920A) and the second side (920B) of the second plate (920) in a substantially identical, similar, or corresponding manner. Although not shown, a display module (160) may be attached to the second side (920B) of the second plate (920).

[0070] In one embodiment, the sealing material (930) may include a first side (930A) and a second side (930B). The description provided with reference to the first side (130A) and the second side (130B) of the sealing material (930) may be applied to the first side (930A) and the second side (930B) of the sealing material (930) in a substantially identical, similar, or corresponding manner.

[0071] In one embodiment, unlike the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) being formed as a rounded surface, the edge (910E) of the first plate (910) may be formed such that the diameter of the opening (915) decreases as it goes downward (e.g., in the -z direction). For example, the edge (910E) of the first plate (910) may be inclined such that the diameter of the opening (915) decreases. For example, but not limitation, the angle (a) between the edge (910E) of the first plate (910) and a line perpendicular to the first surface (910A) may be from about 10 degrees to about 45 degrees.

[0072] In one embodiment, the second plate (920) may include a portion having a cross-sectional area larger than the minimum diameter of the opening (915) of the first plate (910). For example, the edge (920E) of the second plate (920) may be formed parallel to the inclined edge (910E) of the first plate (910). Accordingly, the second plate (920) may be prevented from being deviated downward (e.g., in the -z direction) from the first plate (910).

[0073] Although not shown, optionally or additionally, the cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment may further include a bracket (e.g., bracket (140)) attached to the back surface (900B) of the top plate (900).

[0074] Fig. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. Figs. 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 are drawings illustrating a method for manufacturing a cooking appliance according to one embodiment. Fig. 10 may be a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a cooking appliance (1) or a top plate (100) of a cooking appliance (1).

[0075] Referring to FIG. 10, in step (1010), a pretreatment process of the first plate (110) and the second plate (120) may be performed. For example, referring to FIG. 11, a first plate (110) having an edge (110E) defining an opening (115) and a second plate (120) having an edge (120E) formed may be provided. Surface treatment using plasma may be performed on the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) and the edge (120E) of the second plate (120). This may reduce the contact angle of the sealing material (130) that comes into contact with the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) and the edge (120E) of the second plate (120). Accordingly, the wettability of the sealing material (130) to the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) and the edge (120E) of the second plate (120) can be improved.

[0076] Referring back to FIG. 10, in step (1020), an adhesive member (1210) may be attached to the first plate (110). For example, referring to FIG. 12, an adhesive member (1210) may be attached on the first surface (110A) of the first plate (110) so as to cover the opening (115) of the first plate (110). The adhesive member (1210) may include, for example, an adhesive tape.

[0077] Referring back to FIG. 10, in step (1030), the second plate (120) may be attached to the adhesive member (1210). For example, referring to FIG. 13, the second plate (120) (or the first surface (120A) of the second plate (120)) may be attached to the adhesive member (1210) so as to be positioned within the opening (115) of the first plate (110). The second plate (120) attached to the adhesive member (1210) may be spaced apart from the first plate (110) by a gap (g). For example, although not shown, an alignment jig installed on the second surface (110B) of the first plate (110) may be used to attach the second plate (120) to the back surface of the adhesive member (1210) while positioning it within the opening (115) so as to be spaced apart from the first plate (110).

[0078] Referring back to FIG. 10, at step (1040), a sealing material (130) may be injected. For example, referring to FIG. 14, the sealing material (130) may be injected into a gap (g) between the first plate (110) and the second plate (120). For example, the sealing material (130) may be injected into the gap (g) in the direction of the second surface (120B) of the second plate (120). The adhesive member (1210) may reduce or prevent the sealing material (130) from overflowing in the direction of the first surface (110A) of the first plate (110) (or the first surface (120A) of the second plate (120). In addition, through the adhesive member (1210), the sealing material (130) can be substantially seamlessly bonded to the boundary of the first surface (110A) of the first plate (110) and the boundary of the second surface (120B) of the second plate (120). Optionally or additionally, after step (1030) and before step (1040), a process of heating the first plate (110) and the second plate (120) attached through the adhesive member (1210) can be performed. For example, the first plate (110) and the second plate (120) can be heated by applying hot air or through heat conduction through a hot plate. The heating process can momentarily reduce the viscosity of the sealing material (130) injected in step (1040).

[0079] Referring again to FIG. 10, if the cooking device (1) includes a bracket (140) (e.g., the cooking device (1) of FIG. 6), step (1045) may be performed. Otherwise (e.g., the cooking device (1) of FIG. 3), step (1050) may be performed after step (1040). Step (1045) may be performed after step (1040) but before step (1050).

[0080] In step (1045), a bracket (140) may be attached. For example, referring to FIG. 15, the bracket (140) may be attached to the bottom of the first plate (110) and the second plate (120) via a sealing material (130). For example, the bracket (140) may be attached to the second surface (110B) of the first plate (110) and the second surface (120B) of the second plate (120) via the sealing material (130). For example, referring to FIG. 8, the third rib (143) of the bracket (140) may be positioned on the second surface (100B) of the upper plate (100) such that it is aligned with the gap (g). As the third rib (143) of the bracket (140) is inserted into the gap (g), the first rib (141) can contact the second surface (110B) of the first plate (110) and the second rib (142) can contact the second surface (120B) of the second plate (120). The sealing material (130) present inside the gap (g) can flow from the gap (g) to the first space (s1) and the second space (s2) by capillary action.

[0081] Referring again to FIG. 10, at step (1050), the sealing material (130) may be cured. For example, the sealing material (130) may be heat cured. As the sealing material (130) is heat cured, the volume of the sealing material (130) may decrease. Due to the shrinkage of the sealing material (130) due to heat curing, a sunken surface profile may be formed, as illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0082] In step (1060), the adhesive member (1210) may be removed. To facilitate the removal of the adhesive member (1210), a thermal release tape may be used as the adhesive member (1210). Referring to FIG. 4, the first surface (130A) of the sealing material (130) from which the adhesive member (1210) has been removed may be formed into a matte surface. This may be because the glossy component of the sealing material (130) prior to curing is transferred to the adhesive member (1210) through thermal curing of the sealing material (130).

[0083] Although not shown, after step (1060), additionally or optionally, one or more coating layers may be formed on the second plate (120). During the process of forming the one or more coating layers, the sealing material (130) may be exposed to a high temperature environment for a specified period of time (for example, but not limited to, 180°C and 30 minutes). This high temperature environment may cause the sealing material (130) to thermally expand. Accordingly, the depth of the sunken areas of the first surface (130A) and the second surface (130B) of the sealing material (130) may be reduced. For example, due to the thermal expansion of the sealing material (130), the first surface (130A) and the second surface (130B) of the sealing material (130) may be formed to be substantially flat. Accordingly, the step between the first surface (110A) of the first plate (110), the first surface (120A) of the second plate (120), and the first surface (130A) of the sealing material (130), which can be touched by the user, can be reduced, and the appearance characteristics of the cooking appliance (1) can be improved.

[0084] Referring again to FIG. 9, a method for manufacturing a top plate (900) and a cooking appliance (1) including the same is described.

[0085] First, a pretreatment process of the first plate (910) and the second plate (920) can be performed, such as in step (1010). Thereafter, an adhesive member (e.g., the adhesive member (1210) of FIG. 12) can be attached to the first surface (920A) of the second plate (920). The adhesive member attached to the second plate (920) can have an area larger than the area of ​​the first surface (920A) of the second plate (920) so as to be able to attach the first plate (910), as described below. For example, the adhesive member can include a first region attached to the first surface (920A) of the second plate (920) and a second region surrounding the first region and extending outside the first surface (920A) of the second plate (920). Thereafter, the first plate (910) may be attached to the adhesive member such that the second plate (920) is positioned within the opening (915) of the first plate (910). For example, a portion of the first surface (910A) of the first plate (910), adjacent to the edge (910E) of the first plate (910), may be attached to the second area of ​​the adhesive member. Thereafter, as in step (1040), a sealing material (930) may be injected into the gap between the edge (910E) of the first plate (910) and the edge (920E) of the second plate (920). Thereafter, as in step (1050), the sealing material (930) may be heat-cured. Thereafter, as in step (1060), the adhesive member attached to the first surface (910A) of the first plate (910), the first surface (930A) of the sealing material (930), and the first surface (920A) of the second plate (920) may be removed. Thereafter, additionally or optionally, one or more coating layers may be formed on the second plate (920).

[0086] The cooking device (1) of the present disclosure is not limited to the examples illustrated or described, and may be a variety of devices. For example, the cooking device (1) may include personal electronic devices such as mobile phones (e.g., smartphones), tablets, computers (e.g., laptops or desktops), wearable devices (e.g., smartwatches, smartrings, or head-mounted displays (HMDs)), audio devices (e.g., earphones, headphones, portable speakers), video devices (e.g., digital cameras), and game devices (e.g., portable game consoles or home game consoles), or home appliances such as TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, air conditioners, fans, vacuum cleaners, microwave ovens, rice cookers, coffee machines, air purifiers, humidifiers, and dehumidifiers, but is not limited to the examples described above.

[0087] According to one embodiment, a cooking appliance (1) may include a first plate (110) having one or more heating zones configured to place a cooking utensil (190) and having an opening (115); a second plate (120) positioned within the opening (115) of the first plate (110); a display (160) configured to output visual information through the second plate (120); and a sealing material (130) interposed between an edge (110E) of the first plate (110) defining the opening (115) and an edge (120E) of the second plate (120). The edge (110E) of the first plate (110) may include a rounded surface. The edge (120E) of the second plate (120) may include a flat surface (125).

[0088] In one embodiment, the radius of curvature (R) of the rounded surface of the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) may be 50% or more and 200% or less of the thickness (t) of the first plate (110).

[0089] In one embodiment, the edge (120E) of the second plate (120) may include a first chamfered surface (121) extending from a first side of the flat surface (125); and a second chamfered surface (122) extending from a second side of the flat surface (125).

[0090] In one embodiment, the first plate (110) may include a front surface (110A) extending from a first side of the edge (110E) of the first plate (110); and a back surface (110B) extending from a second side of the edge (110E) of the first plate (110). The second plate (120) may include a front surface (120A) extending from a first side of the edge (120E) of the second plate (120); and a back surface (120B) extending from a second side of the edge (120E) of the second plate (120). The sealing material (130) may include a first surface (130A) extending from the first side of the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) to the first side of the edge (120E) of the second plate (120); And it may include a second surface (130B) extending from the second side of the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) to the second side of the edge (120E) of the second plate (120). The glossiness of the first surface (130A) of the sealing material (130) may be lower than the glossiness of the second surface (130B) of the sealing material (130).

[0091] In one embodiment, the first surface (130A) of the sealing material (130) may include a sunken area relative to the front surface (110A) of the first plate (110) and the front surface (120A) of the second plate (120).

[0092] In one embodiment, the second surface (130B) of the sealing material (130) may include a sunken area relative to the back surface (110B) of the first plate (110) and the back surface (120B) of the second plate (120).

[0093] In one embodiment, the first surface (130A) of the sealing material (130) may be substantially flat.

[0094] In one embodiment, the second plate (120) may include one or more coating layers forming the front surface (120A) of the second plate (120).

[0095] In one embodiment, the bracket (140) may be positioned below the first plate (110) and the second plate (120). The bracket (140) may include: a bottom portion (146) spaced apart from the first plate (110) and the second plate (120); a first rib (141) extending from the bottom portion (146) to the back surface (110B) of the first plate (110); a second rib (142) extending from the bottom portion (146) to the back surface (120B) of the second plate (120); And may include a third rib (143) extending from the bottom portion (146) to the inside of the gap (g) between the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) and the edge (120E) of the second plate (120), and positioned between the first rib (141) and the second rib (142). The sealing material (130) may fill at least a portion of the space between the first plate (110), the second plate (120), and the bracket (140).

[0096] In one embodiment, the first plate (110) may include a front surface (110A) opposite the back surface (110B) of the first plate (110). The second plate (120) may include a front surface (120A) opposite the back surface (120B) of the second plate (120). The sealing material (130) may include a matte surface extending from an edge of the front surface (110A) of the first plate (110) to an edge of the front surface (120A) of the second plate (120).

[0097] In one embodiment, the sealing material (130) may include epoxy.

[0098] In one embodiment, the sealing material (130) may have a shore hardness D of 30 or more and 60 or less.

[0099] In one embodiment, the first plate (110) may be formed of ceramic glass.

[0100] In one embodiment, the first plate (110) may be formed of a substantially opaque ceramic glass.

[0101] In one embodiment, the second plate (120) may be formed of substantially transparent ceramic glass.

[0102] In one embodiment, the second plate (120) may be formed of substantially transparent glass.

[0103] In one embodiment, the second plate (120) may be formed of a substantially transparent plastic.

[0104] According to one embodiment, a method for manufacturing a cooking appliance (1) comprises: a step (1020) of attaching a tape on the first plate (110) so as to cover the opening (115) of the first plate (110); a step (1030) of attaching the second plate (120) to the tape so that the second plate (120) is positioned within the opening (115) of the first plate (110); a step (1040) of injecting the sealing material (130) into a gap (g) between the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) and the edge (120E) of the second plate (120) positioned within the opening (115) of the first plate (110); a step (1050) of curing the sealing material (130) injected into the gap (g); and a step (1060) of removing the tape after curing of the sealing material (130).

[0105] In one embodiment, the method may include a step (1045) of attaching a bracket (140) under the first plate (110) and the second plate (120) through the sealing material (130) after injection of the sealing material (130) and before curing of the sealing material (130).

[0106] In one embodiment, the step of forming an anti-fingerprint coating layer on the second plate (120) may be included.

[0107] The term "and / or" as used herein may include any combination of multiple related described components or any one of multiple related described components.

[0108] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this may include not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0109] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this can include not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0110] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0111] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0112] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In the cooking appliance (1), A first plate (110) comprising one or more heating zones configured to place a cooking appliance (190) and having an opening (115); A second plate (120) located within the opening (115) of the first plate (110); A display (160) configured to output visual information through the second plate (120); and A sealing material (130) interposed between an edge (110E) of the first plate (110) defining the opening (115) and an edge (120E) of the second plate (120), The edge (110E) of the first plate (110) includes a rounded surface, The edge (120E) of the second plate (120) includes a flat surface (125). Cooking appliance (1).

2. In claim 1, The radius of curvature (R) of the rounded surface of the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) is 50% or more and 200% or less of the thickness (t) of the first plate (110). Cooking appliance (1).

3. In claim 1 or claim 2, The edge (120E) of the second plate (120) is: A first chamfered surface (121) extending from a first side of the flat surface (125); and Including a second chamfered surface (122) extending from the second side of the above flat surface (125), Cooking appliance (1).

4. In any one of claims 1 to 3, The above first plate (110): A front surface (110A) extending from the first side of the edge (110E) of the first plate (110); and including a back surface (110B) extending from the second side of the edge (110E) of the first plate (110); The above second plate (120): A front surface (120A) extending from the first side of the edge (120E) of the second plate (120); and including a back surface (120B) extending from the second side of the edge (120E) of the second plate (120); The above sealing material (130) is: A first surface (130A) extending from the first side of the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) to the first side of the edge (120E) of the second plate (120); and A second surface (130B) extending from the second side of the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) to the second side of the edge (120E) of the second plate (120), The glossiness of the first surface (130A) of the sealing material (130) is lower than the glossiness of the second surface (130B) of the sealing material (130). Cooking appliance (1).

5. In claim 4, The first surface (130A) of the sealing material (130) includes a sunken area in comparison with the front surface (110A) of the first plate (110) and the front surface (120A) of the second plate (120). Cooking appliance (1).

6. In claim 4 or claim 5, The second surface (130B) of the sealing material (130) includes a sunken area in comparison with the back surface (110B) of the first plate (110) and the back surface (120B) of the second plate (120). Cooking appliance (1).

7. In claim 4, The first surface (130A) of the sealing material (130) is substantially flat. Cooking appliance (1).

8. In claim 7, The second plate (120) includes one or more coating layers forming the front surface (120A) of the second plate (120). Cooking appliance (1).

9. In any one of claims 1 to 3, It includes a bracket (140) positioned below the first plate (110) and the second plate (120), The above bracket (140) is: A bottom portion (146) spaced apart from the first plate (110) and the second plate (120); A first rib (141) extending from the bottom portion (146) to the back surface (110B) of the first plate (110); A second rib (142) extending from the bottom portion (146) to the back surface (120B) of the second plate (120); and A third rib (143) extending from the bottom portion (146) to the inside of the gap (g) between the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) and the edge (120E) of the second plate (120), and positioned between the first rib (141) and the second rib (142); The sealing material (130) fills at least a portion of the space between the first plate (110), the second plate (120), and the bracket (140). Cooking appliance (1).

10. In claim 9, The first plate (110) includes a front surface (110A) opposite to the back surface (110B) of the first plate (110), The second plate (120) includes a front surface (120A) opposite to the back surface (120B) of the second plate (120), The sealing material (130) includes a matte surface extending from the edge of the front surface (110A) of the first plate (110) to the edge of the front surface (120A) of the second plate (120). Cooking appliance (1).

11. In any one of claims 1 to 10, The above first plate (110) is formed of ceramic glass. Cooking appliance (1).

12. In any one of claims 1 to 11, The above second plate (120) is formed of substantially transparent ceramic glass. Cooking appliance (1).

13. In any one of claims 1 to 12, The above second plate (120) is formed of substantially transparent glass. Cooking appliance (1).

14. In any one of claims 1 to 12, The above second plate (120) is formed of substantially transparent plastic. Cooking appliance (1).

15. In the manufacturing method of the cooking appliance (1) of any one of claims 1 to 14, A step (1020) of attaching a tape on the first plate (110) to cover the opening (115) of the first plate (110); A step (1030) of attaching the second plate (120) to the tape so that the second plate (120) is positioned within the opening (115) of the first plate (110); A step (1040) of injecting the sealing material (130) into the gap (g) between the edge (110E) of the first plate (110) and the edge (120E) of the second plate (120) located within the opening (115) of the first plate (110); A step (1050) of hardening the sealing material (130) injected into the gap (g); Step (1060) of removing the tape after hardening of the sealing material (130); After the injection of the sealing material (130) and before the hardening of the sealing material (130), a step (1045) of attaching the bracket (140) under the first plate (110) and the second plate (120) through the sealing material (130); and Comprising a step of forming an anti-fingerprint coating layer on the second plate (120), Manufacturing method.

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