White ceramic glass, method for manufacturing white ceramic glass, and cooktop comprising white ceramic glass

Abstract

A cooktop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise: a cooktop body; and white ceramic glass disposed on the cooktop body. The white ceramic glass comprises: a plurality of micro-grooves having an average depth of 30 μm or less; and a plurality of embossed portions formed to protrude upward between the plurality of micro-grooves and having an average width of 80 μm to 130 μm.

Description

White ceramic glass, method for manufacturing white ceramic glass, and cooktop comprising white ceramic glass

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to white ceramic glass, a method for manufacturing white ceramic glass, and a cooktop including white ceramic glass, and more particularly, to white ceramic glass with improved cleanability (or ease of cleaning) and scratch resistance, and a cooktop including the same.

[0002] An induction device (or induction heating device) may be used as a heat source for generating heat. In particular, a cooktop (or hob) may be used as a cooking appliance for heating food using an induction device.

[0003] The top of the cooktop can be fitted with heat-resistant ceramic glass. Ceramic glass has the advantages of being virtually immune to thermal shock fractures and possessing excellent mechanical strength and thermal conductivity.

[0004] Ceramic glass can be categorized into white, black, or transparent ceramic glass depending on its color. Each ceramic glass must possess a specific level of scratch resistance and cleanability. White ceramic glass differs in composition, including crystal size, compared to black or transparent ceramic glass. Therefore, if manufactured using the same manufacturing process as black or transparent ceramic glass, its scratch resistance and cleanability may be reduced.

[0005] Research is ongoing to manufacture white ceramic glass with excellent performance.

[0006] 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 related to the present disclosure.

[0007] A cooktop according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cooktop body and a white ceramic glass disposed on an upper portion of the cooktop body. The white ceramic glass may include a plurality of micro-grooves having an average depth of 30 μm or less and a plurality of embossed portions formed to protrude upward between the plurality of micro-grooves and having an average width of 80 μm to 130 μm.

[0008] A method for manufacturing white ceramic glass according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a blasting process for spraying elastic particles at a high speed onto the surface of the white ceramic glass, an etching process for exposing the white ceramic glass subjected to the blasting process to a hydrofluoric acid (HF) solution, and a polishing process for polishing the surface of the white ceramic glass subjected to the etching process two to three times to form a surface roughness of 1.5 μm to 2.5 μm.

[0009] A white ceramic glass according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a plurality of micro-grooves formed on an upper surface, each having an average depth of 30 μm or less, and an embossed portion formed between the plurality of micro-grooves, each having an average width of 80 μm to 130 μm. A surface roughness (Ra) of the upper surface may be 1.5 μm to 2.5 μm.

[0010] The effects that can be obtained from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure pertain from the following description. In other words, unintended effects resulting from implementing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cooktop according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a cooktop according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a white ceramic glass according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating a manufacturing process of white ceramic glass according to one embodiment.

[0015] Fig. 5 is an experimental example for explaining the surface state of white ceramic glass according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 6a is an experimental example of observing the surface of white ceramic glass from above using an electron microscope.

[0017] Figure 6b is an experimental example of observing the side of micro grooves in white ceramic glass using an electron microscope.

[0018] Fig. 7 is an experimental example to explain the scratch resistance of white ceramic glass according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a white ceramic glass and a display device having a portion formed with perforations according to one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 9 is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing white ceramic glass according to one embodiment.

[0021] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the white ceramic glass of Fig. 8.

[0022] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C' of Fig. 8.

[0023] The following description refers to the attached drawings, and specific examples of implementations are illustrated within the drawings. Furthermore, other examples may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the various examples.

[0024] The various embodiments used to illustrate the principles of the present disclosure, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 11 below and in this patent document, are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure in any way. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the principles of the present disclosure can be implemented in any appropriately arranged system or device.

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components. Furthermore, in the drawings and related descriptions, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0026] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a cooktop according to one embodiment. Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a cooktop according to one embodiment.

[0027] The drawings of the cooktop (or cooking appliance) illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 are exemplary for convenience of explanation, and the scope of the present disclosure is not limited by the illustrated shapes and structures.

[0028] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a cooktop (1) according to one embodiment may include a cooktop body (10) and white ceramic glass (100). The white ceramic glass (100) may be placed on the upper side of the cooktop body (10). The cooktop (1) according to one embodiment may include at least one of a heater (hereinafter, induction heating coil (11)), a circuit board (12), or a coil mounting plate (15). Here, the cooktop (1) may be referred to as a cooking appliance.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the main body (10) can form the exterior of the cooktop (1). An induction heating coil (11) can be accommodated inside the main body (10). The induction heating coil (11) can generate a magnetic field to inductively heat a cooking vessel (2) inside the main body (10). The induction heating coil (11) can be electrically connected to a main board disposed inside the main body (10) via a wire (11a).

[0030] According to one embodiment, the white ceramic glass (100) may include a first glass (100-1) forming a first region (101) and a second glass (100-2) forming a second region (102). The first glass (100-1) and the second glass (100-2) may be formed integrally. However, this is not limited to the first glass (100-1) and the second glass (100-2) may also be formed by being joined by a separate joining device.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the first glass (100-1) may include a printed layer (101a, 101b, 101c). The printed layer (101a, 101b, 101c) positioned on the first glass (100-1) may be coated at a position corresponding to an induction heating coil (11) to guide a heating area. The shape of the printed layer (101a, 101b, 101c) is not limited to that illustrated.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the second glass (100-2) may include an input unit (102b). The input unit (102b) may be located within the second region (102) of the white ceramic glass (100), but is not limited thereto. The input unit (102b) may be formed at a location corresponding to the touch unit (14). The input unit (102b) may be formed to overlap the touch unit (14) vertically. The user may control the current flowing to the induction heating coil (11) through the input unit (102b). For example, the user may determine the degree to which the cooking vessel (2) is heated through the input unit (102b).

[0033] According to one embodiment, the circuit board (12) may be placed under the second glass (100-2).

[0034] According to one embodiment, the cooktop (1) may include a display device (13). The display device (13) may be disposed in the second region (102), but is not limited thereto. The display device (13) may be electrically connected to the circuit board (12). The display device (13) may be disposed in a penetration portion formed through a white ceramic glass (100) in the second region (102). For example, the display device (13) may display whether the cooking vessel (2) is heated by the induction heating coil (11). The user may check whether the cooking vessel (2) is heated through the display device (13). For example, the display device (13) may display visual information such as letters, numbers, images, or videos.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the cooktop (1) may include a touch unit (14). The touch unit (14) may be disposed in the second region (102), but is not limited thereto. The touch unit (14) may be electrically connected to the circuit board (12). The touch unit (14) may receive a touch signal. For example, the touch unit (14) may receive an input in a capacitive touch manner. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the touch unit (14) may also receive an input in a pressure-sensitive touch manner. The user may control the current flowing to the induction heating coil (11) through the touch unit (14) and determine the degree to which the cooking vessel (2) is heated.

[0036] According to one embodiment, an induction heating coil (11) may be mounted on a coil mounting plate (15). The coil mounting plate (15) may be accommodated within a cooktop body (10). A coil mounting groove (15a) for mounting the induction heating coil (11) may be provided on the coil mounting plate (15). A plurality of coil mounting grooves (15a) may be provided.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the cooktop body (10) may include a first frame (16) arranged to support the white ceramic glass (100). The first frame (16) may be provided so that the white ceramic glass (100) may be supported on the upper portion. The first frame (16) may be formed to extend upward from the four ends of the coil mounting plate (15). The first frame (16) may be arranged to surround the edge of the coil mounting plate (15). The first frame (16) may be arranged so that the white ceramic glass (100) may be mounted and supported on the cooktop body (10).

[0038] The structure of the white ceramic glass (100) included in the cooktop (1) is described below in FIG. 3.

[0039] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a white ceramic glass according to one embodiment.

[0040] In Fig. 3, the sizes of the micro groove (110) and the embossed portion (120) may be somewhat exaggerated for convenience of explanation. Fig. 3 is an example for convenience of explanation, and the cross-sectional shape illustrated does not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 3, a white ceramic glass (100) according to one embodiment may include an upper surface (100a), a lower surface (100b), and a side surface (100c). The upper surface (100a) may be a surface that is exposed to the outside when the white ceramic glass (100) is mounted on a cooktop (e.g., the cooktop (1) of FIG. 1). The lower surface (100b) may be a surface opposite to the upper surface (100b) and may be a surface facing the inside of the main body (e.g., the main body (10) of FIG. 1) when mounted on the cooktop (1). The side surface (100c) may be a surface that connects the upper surface (100a) and the lower surface (100b). The side surface (100c) may extend in a vertical direction from an edge of the upper surface (100a). The side surface (100c) may extend in a vertical direction from an edge of the lower surface (100b).

[0042] According to one embodiment, the white ceramic glass (100) may be composed of an opaque material. Unlike black ceramic glass or transparent ceramic glass, the white ceramic glass (100) does not form a separate color coating layer. The white ceramic glass (100) may have a color that is approximately white in itself.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the white ceramic glass (100) may include, in wt%, Al2O3: 18 to 24%, and SiO2: 60 to 70%.

[0044] Al2O3 can improve the corrosion resistance and durability of ceramic glass. Low Al2O3 content can compromise the corrosion resistance and durability of ceramic glass. However, excessive Al2O3 content can increase manufacturing costs.

[0045] SiO2 can act as a crystal nucleating agent in ceramic glass. Low SiO2 content can lead to insufficient crystal formation within the ceramic glass, which can reduce reflectivity. However, excessive SiO2 content can reduce the hardness and durability of the ceramic glass.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the white ceramic glass (100) may include various compositions such as MgO, TiO2, ZrO2, Li2O, BaO and / or ZnO.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the white ceramic glass (100) may include an upper printed layer. The upper printed layer may include at least one of a UX printed layer and a UI printed layer. The upper printed layer may be located on the upper surface (100a). It may be formed to indicate the center of the crater on the upper surface. The upper printed layer may be formed in a straight or cross shape to indicate the center of the crater, but is not limited thereto. Here, the upper printed layer may form a printed layer of FIG. 1 (e.g., printed layers 101a, 101b, 101c of FIG. 1) or an input unit (e.g., input unit 102b of FIG. 1).

[0048] According to one embodiment, the white ceramic glass (100) may include a plurality of micro grooves (110) or a plurality of embossed portions (120). The plurality of micro grooves (110) and the plurality of embossed portions (120) may be formed on the upper surface (100a) of the white ceramic glass (100). For example, the upper surface (100a) of the white ceramic glass (100) may be composed of a plurality of micro grooves (110) and a plurality of embossed portions (120). The plurality of micro grooves (110) and the plurality of embossed portions (120) may be formed through a blasting process, a chemical etching process, and a polishing process, which will be described later in FIG. 4.

[0049] According to one embodiment, a plurality of micro grooves (110) may be formed between a plurality of embossed portions (120). The plurality of micro grooves (110) may be formed by a blasting process and an etching process, which will be described later. Here, the micro grooves (110) may be referred to as grooves, micro dimples, engraved portions, or concave portions.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the plurality of micro-grooves (110) may have an average depth (D1) of 30 μm or less. Each of the plurality of micro-grooves (110) may have a different depth. Here, the depth (D1) of the micro-grooves (110) may be measured based on the top of the embossed portion (120) adjacent to the micro-grooves (110) and the bottom of the micro-grooves (110). For example, the depth (D1) of the plurality of micro-grooves (110) may refer to the average depth of all the micro-grooves (110) in the entire area of ​​the upper surface (100a) of the white ceramic glass (100). For example, the depth (D1) of the plurality of micro-grooves (110) may refer to the average depth of 10 to 20 micro-grooves (110) arbitrarily selected for each area by dividing the upper surface (100a) of the white ceramic glass (100) into a plurality of virtual areas. However, the method for measuring the average depth (D1) of multiple micro-grooves (110) is not limited thereto.

[0051] As the average depth (D1) of the plurality of micro grooves (110) increases, the cleanability (or ease of cleaning) of the white ceramic glass (100) may deteriorate. If foreign substances enter the deeply formed micro grooves, it may be difficult for a user to easily remove the foreign substances through cleaning. The average depth (D1) of the micro grooves (110) formed in the white ceramic glass (100) of the present disclosure is 30 μm or less, which may improve cleanability.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the average width (W1) of the plurality of micro-grooves (110) may be 100 μm or more. Each of the plurality of micro-grooves (110) may have a different width. Here, the width (W1) of the micro-grooves (110) may refer to the distance between adjacent embossed portions (120) that are in contact with the micro-grooves (110). For example, the width (W1) of the plurality of micro-grooves (110) may refer to the average width of all micro-grooves (110) in the entire area of ​​the upper surface (100a) of the white ceramic glass (100). For example, the width (W1) of the plurality of micro-grooves (110) may refer to the average width of 10 to 20 micro-grooves (110) arbitrarily selected for each area by dividing the upper surface (100a) of the white ceramic glass (100) into a plurality of virtual areas. However, the method of measuring the average width (W1) of multiple micro-homes (110) is not limited thereto.

[0053] As the average width (W1) of the plurality of micro grooves (110) becomes narrower, the cleanability of the white ceramic glass (100) may deteriorate. If foreign substances enter the micro grooves with a narrow width, it is difficult to remove the foreign substances from the micro grooves. The average width (W1) of the micro grooves (110) formed in the white ceramic glass (100) of the present disclosure is 100 μm or more, so that the cleanability can be improved.

[0054] According to one embodiment, a plurality of embossed portions (120) may be formed to protrude upwardly between a plurality of micro grooves (110). For example, each of the plurality of embossed portions (120) may protrude upwardly between two or more micro grooves (110) among the plurality of micro grooves (110). Here, the embossed portions (120) may be referred to as embossing, relief, or protrusion.

[0055] The size of the plurality of embossments (120) is related to scratch resistance. The larger the area of ​​the embossments (120), the greater the scratch resistance of the white ceramic glass (100). As the area of ​​the embossments (120) increases, the area of ​​the micro grooves (110) relatively decreases, which may reduce the cleanability.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the white ceramic glass (100) may have a range of sizes of embossments (120) to optimize cleanability and scratch resistance.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the plurality of embossed portions (120) may have an average width (W2) of 80 μm to 130 μm. Each of the plurality of embossed portions (120) may have a different width. Here, the width (W2) of the embossed portions (120) may refer to the diameter of the embossed portions (120). For example, the width (W2) of the plurality of embossed portions (120) may refer to the average width of all the embossed portions (120) in the entire area of ​​the upper surface (100a) of the white ceramic glass (100). For example, the width (W2) of the plurality of embossed portions (120) may refer to the average width of 10 to 20 embossed portions (120) arbitrarily selected for each area by dividing the upper surface (100a) of the white ceramic glass (100) into a plurality of virtual areas. However, the method of measuring the average width (W2) of multiple embossments (120) is not limited to this.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the surface roughness of the white ceramic glass (100) may be 1.5 μm to 2.5 μm. The surface roughness of the upper surface (100a) of the white ceramic glass (100) may be 1.5 μm to 2.5 μm. By forming the surface roughness of the white ceramic glass (100) low, the cleanability can be improved.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the upper surface (100a) of the white ceramic glass (100) may be coated with a coating material. A coating layer may be formed on the upper surface (100a) of the white ceramic glass (100) to improve antifouling properties and heat resistance.

[0060] In one embodiment, the average depth (D1) and average width (W1) of the plurality of micro grooves (110), the average width (W2) of the plurality of embossments (120), and the average roughness of the surface in the ceramic glass (100) can be formed by a process described later in FIG. 4.

[0061] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating a manufacturing process of white ceramic glass according to one embodiment.

[0062] The flow chart illustrated in FIG. 4 is exemplary, and some of the illustrated processes may be omitted or other parts may be added to the illustrated processes.

[0063] The manufacturing process of FIG. 4 may be a manufacturing process of the white ceramic glass illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3 (e.g., the white ceramic glass (100) of FIG. 1).

[0064] Referring to FIG. 4, a method for manufacturing white ceramic glass (100) may include a cleaning process (410), a blasting process (420), an etching process (430), a polishing process (440), and a printing and coating process (450).

[0065] In the case of white ceramic glass (100), the crystal structure and composition are different compared to black ceramic glass or transparent ceramic glass. Therefore, when a manufacturing process for forming a plurality of micro grooves in black ceramic glass or transparent ceramic glass is applied to white ceramic glass (100), low-quality white ceramic glass (100) with reduced scratch resistance (or scratch resistance, wear resistance) and cleanability (or ease of cleaning) may be manufactured. For example, white ceramic glass (100) has a beta-spodumene crystal structure, and the diameter of the crystal structure is approximately 0.9 μm to 1.1 μm, which may be larger than the diameter of the crystal structure of black ceramic glass or transparent ceramic glass. Due to this difference, a new manufacturing process must be applied to manufacture white ceramic glass (100) with improved scratch resistance and cleanability.

[0066] According to one embodiment, a method for manufacturing white ceramic glass may include a cleaning process (410). In the cleaning process (410), the surface of a white ceramic glass base material cut to an appropriate size may be cleaned. The surface of the white ceramic glass base material may be cleaned before performing the blasting, etching, and polishing processes described below.

[0067] According to one embodiment, a method for manufacturing white ceramic glass may include a blasting process (420). In the blasting process (420), an elastomer may be used as a media and sprayed onto the surface of the white ceramic glass. The media may be sprayed onto the upper surface of the white ceramic glass. In the blasting process (420), elastomer particles may be sprayed onto the surface of the white ceramic glass at a high speed.

[0068] In the process of forming micro-grooves in conventional ceramic glass for cooktops, a sandblasting method was used. However, in the case of white ceramic glass, due to differences in the size of the crystal structure, etc., using sandblasting may result in the formation of a rough and uneven surface.

[0069] In the present disclosure, the surface of a white ceramic glass (100) according to one embodiment can be formed through an elastic blasting process using an elastic body as a medium, rather than sandblasting.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the media used as an elastic body in the blasting process (420) may be formed by coating a silicone elastic body on at least one of aluminum oxide (Al2O3), silicon carbide (SiC), cerium oxide (CeO2), silicon dioxide (SiO2), chromium dioxide (CrO2), lanthanum oxide (La2O3), boron carbide (B4C), or zirconium oxide (ZrO2).

[0071] After completing the blasting process (420), the surface roughness (Ra) of the surface of the white ceramic glass onto which the media is sprayed may be 0.5 μm to 1.5 μm.

[0072] According to one embodiment, a method for manufacturing white ceramic glass may include an etching process (430). In the etching process (430), white ceramic glass that has undergone the blasting process (410) may be immersed in a hydrofluoric acid (HF) solution. Depending on the chemical etching time of the white ceramic glass in the etching process (430), the average depth of the micro-grooves (110) (e.g., the average depth (D1) of FIG. 3) may be determined. As the chemical etching time increases, the average depth (D1) of the micro-grooves (110) may increase. In the present disclosure, the chemical etching may be performed within 1 hour to form the micro-grooves (110) so that the average depth (D1) of the micro-grooves (110) is 30 μm or less. For example, the etching process (430) may be performed for 20 to 40 minutes, but is not limited thereto.

[0073] After the etching process, the surface roughness (Ra) of the white ceramic glass can be 1.5 μm to 2.5 μm.

[0074] According to one embodiment, a method for manufacturing white ceramic glass may include a polishing process (440). The polishing process (440) may be performed two or three times. A different type of polishing pad may be used for each round of the polishing process (440). For example, a soft polishing pad and a hard polishing pad may be used alternately for each round of the polishing process (440), but the present invention is not limited thereto. Upon completion of the polishing process (440), the white ceramic glass may have a surface roughness (Ra) of 1.5 μm to 2.5 μm.

[0075] When the blasting process, etching process, and polishing process are performed in the manner described above, a plurality of micro grooves (110) having an average width (W1) of 100 μm or more and an average depth (D1) of 30 μm or less and a plurality of embossed portions (120) having an average width (W2) of 80 μm to 130 μm can be formed on the upper surface (100a) of the white ceramic glass (100).

[0076] In one embodiment, a method for manufacturing white ceramic glass may include a printing and coating process (450). In the printing and coating process (450), an upper printing layer may be printed. In the printing and coating process (450), the upper surface of the white ceramic glass may be coated with a coating material.

[0077] Fig. 5 is an experimental example for explaining the surface state of white ceramic glass according to one embodiment.

[0078] FIG. 5 (a) is an image of the surface of white ceramic glass to which a process used to form micro grooves in black ceramic glass or transparent ceramic glass has been applied. FIG. 5 (b) is an image of the surface of white ceramic glass (e.g., white ceramic glass (100) of FIG. 3) according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 (b) is an image of the surface of white ceramic glass (100) to which the manufacturing method of FIG. 4 has been applied.

[0079] The size distribution of the circular micro-grooves shown in (a) of Fig. 5 is more uneven than the size distribution of the circular micro-grooves shown in (b) of Fig. 5. That is, by applying the new process illustrated in Fig. 4, micro-grooves with high size uniformity can be formed even in white ceramic glass.

[0080] When the size distribution of the micro-grooves is unbalanced, an embossed portion may be formed in a very small size, as illustrated in (a) of FIG. 5. If the size of the embossed portion becomes smaller, the scratch resistance of the white ceramic glass may deteriorate. In the white ceramic glass (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the size of the embossed portion (120) is relatively more uniform, as illustrated in (b) of FIG. 5, and has an average width (W2) of 80 μm to 130 μm, thereby improving the scratch resistance.

[0081] Figure 6a is an experimental example of observing the surface of white ceramic glass from above using an electron microscope. Figure 6b is an experimental example of observing the side of micro grooves in white ceramic glass using an electron microscope.

[0082] (a) of FIG. 6A is an image (hereinafter, referred to as a first image) taken from above with an electron microscope of a portion of the surface of white ceramic glass to which a process used for forming micro grooves in black ceramic glass or transparent ceramic glass has been applied. (b) of FIG. 6A is an image (hereinafter, referred to as a first image) taken from above with an electron microscope of a portion of the surface of white ceramic glass (e.g., white ceramic glass (100) of FIG. 3) according to one embodiment. (b) of FIG. 6A is an image (hereinafter, referred to as a second image) taken from above with an electron microscope of a portion of the surface of white ceramic glass (100) to which the manufacturing method of FIG. 4 has been applied.

[0083] Referring to Fig. 6a, the surface of the first image can be confirmed to be rougher than the surface of the second image. If the surface becomes rougher, scratch resistance and cleanability may deteriorate, which may lower marketability. The first image can be observed to have a rough surface as if it were textured. If fine foreign substances are caught between the textured surfaces, it may be difficult to remove them even if the user wipes the surface of the white ceramic glass, thereby reducing cleanability. The second image can be observed to have a relatively smoother surface compared to the first image. Such surface characteristics can improve the cleanability of the white ceramic glass (100).

[0084] (a) of Fig. 6b is data (hereinafter, first data) obtained by measuring a portion of a side cross-section of white ceramic glass to which a process used for forming micro grooves in black ceramic glass or transparent ceramic glass is applied using an electron microscope. (b) of Fig. 6b is data (hereinafter, second data) obtained by measuring a portion of a side cross-section of white ceramic glass (e.g., white ceramic glass (100) of Fig. 3) according to one embodiment of the present invention. (b) of Fig. 6b is data (hereinafter, second data) obtained by measuring a portion of a side cross-section of white ceramic glass (100) to which the manufacturing method of Fig. 4 is applied using an electron microscope.

[0085] The first and second data allow for a schematic cross-sectional view of each ceramic glass. Referring to the first data, small protrusions can be confirmed within the micro grooves (610). When such protrusions are formed, fine foreign substances can become trapped between the protrusions, thereby reducing cleaning performance. Referring to the second data, it can be confirmed that the micro grooves (110) have a relatively smoother surface compared to the first data. In the second data, it can be confirmed that the number of spaces, such as fine gaps, in which fine foreign substances can become trapped within the micro grooves (110) is significantly reduced compared to the first data.

[0086] Fig. 7 is an experimental example to explain the scratch resistance of white ceramic glass according to one embodiment.

[0087] Fig. 7 compares the scratch resistance of a white ceramic glass of a comparative example and a white ceramic glass according to an embodiment (e.g., white ceramic glass (100) of Fig. 3). Here, the comparative example is a general white ceramic glass, that is, a white ceramic glass without micro-grooves formed therein.

[0088] The comparative example of Fig. 7 is white ceramic glass without micro-grooves formed. The embodiment of Fig. 7 is white ceramic glass (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] In the experiment of Fig. 7, a stainless steel ball (SUS ball) was used to apply a constant pressure to the surface of each material to test for the presence or absence of scratches.

[0090] According to one embodiment, white ceramic glass (100) can have excellent performance in not only cleanability but also scratch resistance.

[0091] Referring to Fig. 7, the white ceramic glass of the comparative example exhibited surface scratches at a contact pressure of 737 MPa. The white ceramic glass (100) of the exemplary embodiment exhibited surface scratches at a contact pressure of 1137 MPa. The exemplary embodiment can have scratch resistance that is approximately 1.54 times stronger than that of the comparative example.

[0092] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a white ceramic glass and a display device having a portion formed with perforations according to one embodiment.

[0093] The white ceramic glass (810) and display device (820) illustrated in FIG. 8 may be included in the cooktop of FIGS. 1 and 2 (e.g., the cooktop (1) of FIG. 1). The white ceramic glass (810) of FIG. 8 may be placed on the cooktop (1) in place of the white ceramic glass (100) of FIG. 1.

[0094] The embodiment of Fig. 8 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of Figs. 1 to 4. The embodiment of Fig. 8 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of Figs. 9 to 11.

[0095] Among the configurations illustrated in Fig. 8, the same reference numbers are used for configurations that are substantially the same as the configuration described above.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the cooktop may include a white ceramic glass (810) and a display device (820).

[0097] According to one embodiment, the white ceramic glass (810) may include a through hole (811). The through hole (811) may be formed at a location corresponding to the display device (820). The through hole (811) may be formed to overlap the display device (820) vertically.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the display device (820) may be placed on the lower side of the through hole (811). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the display device (820) may be fixed by the edge of the through hole (811) so that a portion thereof protrudes upward from the white ceramic glass (810). Here, the display device (820) may display visual information such as an image, a video, or a character. The display device (820) may be, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display, a microLED display, an LED display, an E-Ink display, or a quantum dot display.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the white ceramic glass (810) may be composed of an opaque material that does not allow light to pass through, unlike other black ceramic glasses or transparent ceramic glasses. Accordingly, in order to position the display device (820) for providing visual information to the user so that it faces the upper part of the cooktop, the white ceramic glass (810) may be perforated to form a through hole (811).

[0100] By forming a through hole (811) in a white ceramic glass (810) according to one embodiment and arranging a display device (820) that provides various visual information to a user, a cooktop (e.g., cooktop (1) of FIG. 1) can provide various visual information without limitation, not just numbers indicating a simple heating level.

[0101] Figure 9 is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing white ceramic glass according to one embodiment.

[0102] The flowchart illustrated in FIG. 9 is exemplary, and some of the illustrated processes may be omitted or other parts may be added to the illustrated processes.

[0103] The manufacturing process of FIG. 9 may be a manufacturing process of the white ceramic glass illustrated in FIG. 8 (e.g., the white ceramic glass (810) of FIG. 8).

[0104] Referring to FIG. 9, a method for manufacturing white ceramic glass (810) may include a cleaning process (910), a punching process (920), a blasting process (930), an etching process (940), a polishing process (950), a chemical strengthening process (960), and a printing and coating process (970).

[0105] The cleaning process (910) may be performed substantially identically to the cleaning process of FIG. 4 (e.g., the cleaning process (410) of FIG. 4). The blasting process (930) may be performed substantially identically to the blasting process of FIG. 4 (e.g., the blasting process (420) of FIG. 4). The etching process (940) may be performed substantially identically to the etching process of FIG. 4 (e.g., the etching process (430) of FIG. 4). The polishing process (950) may be performed substantially identically to the polishing process (440) of FIG. 4. The printing and coating process (970) may be performed substantially identically to the printing and coating process (450) of FIG. 4.

[0106] According to one embodiment, a method for manufacturing white ceramic glass may include a perforation process (920). The perforation process (920) may be performed before a blasting process (930). The perforation process (920) may be a process of perforating a specific area of ​​the white ceramic glass to form a through hole. Here, the specific area may refer to an area corresponding to the display device described above (e.g., the display device (820) of FIG. 8). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and perforation may be performed on multiple areas within the white ceramic glass for various purposes other than the purpose of placing the display device (820).

[0107] In one embodiment, the manufacturing method of white ceramic glass may include a chemical strengthening process (960). The chemical strengthening process (960) may be performed after the polishing process (950). In the chemical strengthening process (960), NaNO3 or KNO3 may be used as a strengthening salt and treatment may be performed at 350 to 450°C for 2 to 5 hours. In one embodiment, the chemical strengthening process (960) may be performed to increase the compressive stress of the white ceramic glass.

[0108] In one embodiment, the chemical strengthening process (960) may be performed twice. A time interval may be established between the two chemical strengthening processes.

[0109] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the white ceramic glass of Fig. 8.

[0110] The cross-sectional view of Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' of Fig. 8.

[0111] In Fig. 10, the sizes of the micro grooves (110) and the embossed portion (120) and the chemically strengthened region (812) may be somewhat exaggerated for convenience of explanation. Fig. 10 is an example for convenience of explanation, and the cross-sectional shape illustrated does not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0112] For configurations substantially identical to the configuration described above among those in FIG. 10, the same reference numbers are used.

[0113] The embodiment of FIG. 10 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 9.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 10, the white ceramic glass (810) may further include a chemically strengthened region (812). When a through hole (811) is formed in the white ceramic glass (810) through a punching process, the white ceramic glass (810) may be easily broken by external impact due to weakened compressive stress. To supplement the rigidity of the white ceramic glass (810), the surface of the white ceramic glass (810) may be chemically strengthened through a chemical strengthening process (e.g., the chemical strengthening process (960) of FIG. 9).

[0115] In one embodiment, the chemically strengthened region (812) may have a depth of 100 μm or less from the surface. The depth of 100 μm or less may refer to an average depth of the chemically strengthened region (812). The chemically strengthened region (812) may be formed from the surface of the white ceramic glass (810) toward the inner side of the white ceramic glass (810).

[0116] According to one embodiment, the depth (812a) of the chemically strengthened region (812) measured from the upper surface (100a) of the white ceramic glass (810) may be 100 μm or less.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the depth (812b) of the chemically strengthened region (812) measured from the lower surface (100b) of the white ceramic glass (810) may be 100 μm or less.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the depth (812c) of the chemically strengthened region (812) measured from the side (100c) of the white ceramic glass (810) may be 100 μm or less.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the depth (812d) of the chemically strengthened region (812) measured from the bottom of the micro groove (110) of the white ceramic glass (810) may be 100 μm or less.

[0120] As shown, by chemically strengthening the surface of the white ceramic glass (810), even if a specific area of ​​the white ceramic glass (810) is perforated to form a through hole (811), high rigidity can be achieved. Due to the chemically strengthened area (812), even if an impact is applied to the area around the through hole (811), it may not be easily broken.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the white ceramic glass of FIG. 3 (e.g., the white ceramic glass (100) of FIG. 3) may also have a cross-section substantially identical to the cross-sectional structure illustrated in FIG. 10. That is, the white ceramic glass (100) of FIG. 3 may also include a chemically strengthened region as illustrated in FIG. 10.

[0122] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC' of Fig. 8.

[0123] In Fig. 11, the sizes of the micro grooves (110) and the embossed portion (120) and the chemically strengthened region (812) may be somewhat exaggerated for convenience of explanation. Fig. 11 is an example for convenience of explanation, and the cross-sectional shape illustrated does not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0124] For configurations substantially identical to the configuration described above among those in FIG. 11, the same reference numbers are used.

[0125] The embodiment of FIG. 11 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 10.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 11, the white ceramic glass (810) may further include a border reinforcement region (8121). The border reinforcement region (8121) may be a part of the chemical reinforcement region (812).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the edge reinforcement region (8121) may have a depth (812e) of 100 μm or less from the side surface (811a) (or edge surface) of the edge forming the through hole (811). The edge reinforcement region (8121) may be formed toward the inner side of the white ceramic glass (810) from the side surface (811a) of the through hole (811).

[0128] By forming a border reinforcement area (8121), the frequency of damage to the area around the through hole (811) due to impact applied through the side surface (811a) of the through hole (811) can be reduced.

[0129] A cooktop (1) according to one embodiment may include a cooktop body (10) and a white ceramic glass (100, 810) disposed on an upper portion of the cooktop body (10). The white ceramic glass (100, 810) may include a plurality of micro grooves (110) having an average depth (D1) of 30 μm or less and a plurality of embossed portions (120) having an average width (W2) of 80 μm to 130 μm. Each of the plurality of embossed portions (120) may protrude upward between two or more micro grooves (110) among the plurality of micro grooves (110).

[0130] According to one embodiment, the surface roughness (Ra) of the white ceramic glass (100, 810) may be 1.5 μm to 2.5 μm.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the average width (W1) of the plurality of micro grooves (110) may be 100 μm or more.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the upper surface of the white ceramic glass (100, 810) can be coated with a coating material.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the white ceramic glass (100, 810) may include a beta-spodumene crystal structure.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the diameter of the crystals constituting the white ceramic glass (100, 810) may be 0.9 μm to 1.1 μm.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the micro groove (110) can be formed through a blasting process using an elastic body as a media, a chemical etching process, and a polishing process.

[0136] In one embodiment, the white ceramic glass (100, 810) may undergo a chemical strengthening process to increase compressive stress.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the cooktop (1) may further include a display device (820). The white ceramic glass (100, 810) may include a through hole (811) formed through a portion corresponding to the display device (820), and may include a through hole (811) formed so that information displayed on the display device (8210) appears.

[0138] According to one embodiment, the white ceramic glass (100, 810) may include a border reinforcement region (8121) formed along the border of the through hole (811), the border reinforcement region (8121) having a depth of 100 μm or less from the surface of the border of the through hole (811).

[0139] According to one embodiment, the media used as an elastic body in the blasting process may be at least one of aluminum oxide (Al2O3), silicon carbide (SiC), cerium oxide (CeO2), silicon dioxide (SiO2), chromium dioxide (CrO2), lanthanum oxide (La2O3), boron carbide (B4C), or zirconium oxide (ZrO2), on which a silicone elastomer may be applied.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the white ceramic glass (100, 810) may include a chemically strengthened region (812) having a depth of 100 μm or less from the surface of the white ceramic glass (100, 810).

[0141] A method for manufacturing white ceramic glass (100, 810) according to one embodiment may include a blasting process for spraying elastic particles at a high speed onto the surface of the white ceramic glass (100, 810), an etching process for exposing the white ceramic glass (100, 810) that has undergone the blasting process to a hydrofluoric acid (HF) solution, and a polishing process for polishing the surface of the white ceramic glass (100, 810) that has undergone the etching process two to three times to form a surface roughness of 1.5 μm to 2.5 μm.

[0142] According to one embodiment, a perforation process for perforating a predetermined area can be performed prior to the blasting process.

[0143] According to one embodiment, a chemical strengthening process may be included to chemically strengthen the white ceramic glass (100, 810) that has undergone the polishing process.

[0144] A white ceramic glass (100, 810) according to one embodiment may include a plurality of micro grooves (110) formed on an upper surface and having an average depth of 30 μm or less, and an embossed portion (120) formed between the plurality of micro grooves (110) and having an average width of 80 μm to 130 μm. A surface roughness (Ra) of the upper surface may be 1.5 μm to 2.5 μm.

[0145] According to one embodiment, the crystal structure of the white ceramic glass (100, 810) may include a beta-spodumene crystal structure. The diameter of the crystals in the crystal structure may be 0.9 μm to 1.1 μm.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the white ceramic glass (100, 810) may further include a through hole (811) penetrating the white ceramic glass (100, 810). As a border reinforcement region (8121) formed along the border of the through hole (811), the border reinforcement region (8121) may include a border reinforcement region (8121) having a depth of 100 μm or less from the surface of the border of the through hole (811).

[0147] According to one embodiment, the white ceramic glass (100, 810) may include a chemically strengthened region (812) having a depth of 100 μm or less from the surface.

[0148] According to one embodiment, the micro groove (110) can be formed through a blasting process using an elastic body as a media, a chemical etching process, and a polishing process.

[0149] The terminology used herein is merely used to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. For example, a singular element should be understood to include plural elements unless the context clearly indicates only a singular element. As used herein, phrases such as "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 each include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. It should be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the listed items. The terms "include," "have," "comprise," and the like used in this disclosure are intended to specify only the presence of a feature, component, part, or combination thereof described in this disclosure, and the use of these terms does not exclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, components, parts, or combinations thereof. The expressions "first," "second," and the like used in this disclosure can modify various components regardless of order and / or importance, and are only used to distinguish one component from another, without limiting the components.

[0150] The expression "configured to" used in the present disclosure can be appropriately used interchangeably with, for example, "suitable for," "capable of," "designed to," "modified to," "made to," or "capable of." The term "configured to" may not necessarily mean only something "specially designed" in terms of hardware. Instead, in some situations, the expression "a device configured to" may mean that the device is "capable of" doing something together with other devices or components. For example, the phrase "a device configured (or set) to perform A, B, and C" may mean a dedicated device for performing the corresponding operations, or a general-purpose device that can perform various operations including the corresponding operations.

[0151] Meanwhile, the terms “upper side,” “lower side,” and “front-rear direction” used in the present disclosure are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0152] Although the foregoing description in this disclosure has focused on specific embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to such specific embodiments, but rather encompasses various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives of the various embodiments.

Claims

1. Cooktop body (10); and Includes white ceramic glass (100, 810) placed on the upper part of the cooktop body (10), The above white ceramic glass (100, 810) is A plurality of micro-grooves (110) having an average depth (D1) of 30 μm or less; and It comprises a plurality of embossments (120) having a width (W2) of 80 μm to 130 μm on average, Each of the above plurality of embossments (120) protrudes upward between two or more micro grooves (110) among the above plurality of micro grooves (110). Cooktop.

2. In paragraph 1, A cooktop having a surface roughness (Ra) of the above white ceramic glass (100, 810) of 1.5 μm to 2.5 μm.

3. In paragraph 1, A cooktop having an average width (W1) of the above plurality of micro-grooves (110) of 100 μm or more.

4. In paragraph 1, Coated with a top surface coating material of the above white ceramic glass (100, 810), Cooktop.

5. In paragraph 1, The above white ceramic glass (100, 810) is A cooktop containing a beta-spodumene crystal structure.

6. In paragraph 1, A cooktop having a crystal diameter of 0.9 μm to 1.1 μm constituting the above white ceramic glass (100, 810).

7. In one of paragraphs 1 to 6, Further comprising a display device (820), The above white ceramic glass (100, 810) is A through hole (811) formed to correspond to the display device (820) and formed to display information on the display device (820) is included. A cooktop comprising a border reinforcement area (8121) formed along the border of the through hole (811), the border reinforcement area (8121) having a depth of 100 μm or less from the surface of the border of the through hole (811).

8. In one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above white ceramic glass (100, 810) is A cooktop comprising a chemically strengthened region (812) having a depth of 100 μm or less from the surface of the white ceramic glass (100, 810).

9. In a method for manufacturing white ceramic glass (100, 810), A blasting process for spraying elastic particles at high speed onto the surface of the above white ceramic glass (100, 810); An etching process in which the white ceramic glass (100, 810) that has undergone the above blasting process is exposed to a hydrofluoric acid (HF) solution; A manufacturing method comprising a polishing process of polishing the surface of a white ceramic glass (100, 810) that has undergone an etching process two to three times to form a surface roughness of 1.5 μm to 2.5 μm.

10. In paragraph 9, Before the above blasting process, A manufacturing method that performs a punching process of punching a specified area.

11. In paragraph 9, A manufacturing method including a chemical strengthening process for chemically strengthening white ceramic glass (100, 810) that has undergone the above polishing process.

12. In white ceramic glass (100, 810), A plurality of micro grooves (110) having an average depth of 30 μm or less formed on the upper surface; and It includes an embossed portion (120) formed between the plurality of micro grooves (110) and having an average width of 80 μm to 130 μm, White ceramic glass having a surface roughness (Ra) of the upper surface of 1.5 μm to 2.5 μm.

13. In paragraph 12, The crystal structure of the above white ceramic glass (100, 810) includes a beta-spodumene crystal structure, In the above crystal structure, the diameter of the crystal is 0.9 μm to 1.1 μm. White ceramic glass.

14. In paragraph 12 or 13, It further includes a through hole (811) penetrating the above white ceramic glass, A border reinforcement area (8121) formed along the border of the through hole (811), comprising a border reinforcement area (8121) having a depth of 100 μm or less from the surface of the border of the through hole (811). White ceramic glass.

15. In one of the clauses 12 to 14, A white ceramic glass comprising a chemically strengthened region (812) having a depth of 100 μm or less from the surface of the white ceramic glass (100, 810).

Images