Cooking appliance

Abstract

A cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a cavity having a cooking chamber formed therein; a heating unit for providing heat to the cooking chamber; an image module for acquiring an image of the cooking chamber; a weight sensor for detecting the weight of a material to be cooked located in the cooking chamber; and a control unit for executing a cooking operation on the basis of the image provided from the image module and the weight of the material to be cooked provided from the weight sensor, wherein the control unit analyzes the image of the cooking chamber so as to determine the type of the material to be cooked, and executes a cooking operation corresponding to the type of the material to be cooked.

Description

Cooking appliances

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cooking appliance, and more specifically, to a cooking appliance that automatically cooks using a plurality of sensors.

[0002] Various cooking appliances are being distributed, such as microwave ovens using microwaves, ovens using heaters, and cooktops.

[0003] Microwave ovens heat food by irradiating microwaves generated by a magnetron into a sealed cooking chamber to vibrate the water molecules of the food stored inside, while ovens heat food stored inside a cooking chamber by using a heater to heat the sealed cooking chamber.

[0004] In addition, cooking appliances are trending toward diversifying their functions, and cooking appliances are being developed that perform functions previously performed by two or more separate appliances in a single appliance.

[0005] Meanwhile, lightwave ovens are being developed that use light heaters emitting light and radiant heat to heat food; food is placed on an exposed shelf at the top to allow the light and radiant heat to be absorbed by the food, and the oven is operated.

[0006] For the convenience of the user, when an item is placed in the oven's cooking chamber, the image module acquires an image of the item, determines the type, weight, and location of the item based on the acquired image, and automatically cooks the item using the appropriate cooking method.

[0007] However, in the case of conventional technology, there is a problem in that cooking cannot be performed using the correct cooking method depending on the type of food, and the time of completion of cooking cannot be accurately predicted.

[0008] In particular, Patent Document 1 is an invention related to control utilizing a sensor array (oxygen sensor, nitrogen sensor, humidity sensor, temperature sensor) installed inside a cooking chamber. It discloses a method for determining the completion of cooking by recording each signal curve to determine the remaining cooking time and storing the curve information in a storage.

[0009] However, in the case of Patent Document 1, the cooking time and condition are determined by a method in which various types of sensors are placed inside the cooking chamber to measure immediately, but because the molecular weights of odor molecules differ, it is difficult to increase the accuracy of the measurement if the measurement location is placed in one place, and it is difficult to match the allowable temperature of the sensor, resulting in problems with the reliability of the sensor. In addition, there is a problem in that it is difficult to determine the exact time of completion of cooking using only such sensors.

[0010] In the case of Patent Document 2, a method of measuring gas coming out of a duct was selected for application within an oven as a method of determining the overcooked (state) of a food item using a CO sensor. However, Patent Document 2 has problems in that accurate measurement is difficult because water vapor and oil vapor enter the CO sensor, and the reliability of the sensor cannot be guaranteed due to high temperatures. In addition, it fails to provide cooking methods according to the type of food item, and there is a problem in that the timing of determining the completion of cooking is inaccurate using only the CO sensor depending on the type of food item.

[0011] [Prior Art Literature]

[0012] [Patent Literature]

[0013] Patent Document 1 - EP 2741011 A1

[0014] Patent Document 2 - Patent Publication No. 10-2022-0153892

[0015]

[0016] The problem that the present disclosure aims to solve is to provide a cooking device that automatically cooks according to the type and weight of the food using an appropriate cooking method through a plurality of sensors, and accurately determines the time when cooking is complete.

[0017] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a cooking appliance capable of accurate gas sensing by removing oil vapor from the gas generated within the cooking chamber.

[0018] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a cooking appliance in which a vapor removal unit for removing oil vapor is easily detachable from the casing in a drawer-like manner, so that the vapor removal unit can be easily separated and cleaned.

[0019] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a cooking appliance in which the vapor removal unit for removing oil vapor is a chamber structure, allowing for easy cleaning and separation by simply removing the cover.

[0020] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a cooking device that prevents a gas sensor module from malfunctioning by exceeding an allowable temperature due to heat generated as the food is heated.

[0021] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a cooking device that prevents an image module from malfunctioning due to being heated by the heat generated as the food is heated.

[0022] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a cooking device that cools an image module and a gas sensor module by using a blower fan that cools electrical components without a fan that directly cools the image module.

[0023] The problems of the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0024] To achieve the above objective, a cooking device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is characterized by performing a cooking operation based on an image provided by an image module and the weight of the food to be cooked provided by a weight sensor.

[0025] Specifically, a cooking device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a cavity forming a cooking chamber inside, a heating unit providing heat to the cooking chamber, an image module acquiring an image of the cooking chamber, a weight sensor detecting the weight of a food item located in the cooking chamber, and a control unit executing a cooking operation based on the image provided by the image module and the weight of the food item provided by the weight sensor, wherein the control unit analyzes the image of the cooking chamber to determine the type of the food item and executes a cooking operation corresponding to the type of the food item.

[0026] The control unit can analyze the image of the cooking chamber to determine the type of food to be cooked and execute a cooking operation corresponding to the type of food to be cooked.

[0027] When the above control unit determines that the food item is a food item based on quantity, it analyzes the image of the cooking chamber to calculate the quantity of the food item and can execute a cooking operation based on the quantity of the food item.

[0028] When the above control unit determines that the food item is a food item based on weight, it can calculate the weight of the food item using the weight sensor and execute a cooking operation based on the weight of the food item.

[0029] The control unit above can determine whether cooking is complete based on a change in the surface image of the food being cooked.

[0030] The control unit can, when the food item is determined to be a food item based on quantity, analyze an image of the cooking chamber to calculate the quantity of the food item, execute a cooking operation based on the quantity of the food item, and determine whether cooking is complete based on a change in the surface image of the food item.

[0031] The control unit above can determine that cooking is complete when the saturation value of a specific part of the surface image of the food is lower than the reference saturation value.

[0032] The control unit can determine that cooking is complete if the saturation value of a specific part of the surface image of the food is lower than a preset value than the saturation value at the start of cooking the food.

[0033] The above control unit can determine whether cooking is complete based on the change in weight of the food.

[0034] In addition, the cooker further includes a gas sensor that detects gas emitted from the cooking chamber, and the control unit can determine that cooking is complete when a preset component in the gas is contained in an amount exceeding a preset concentration.

[0035] In addition, the cooking device further includes a temperature sensor for measuring the internal temperature of the food item, and the control unit can determine whether cooking is complete based on the internal temperature of the food item.

[0036] The control unit can calculate the weight of the food using the weight sensor when the food is determined to be a food based on weight, execute a cooking operation based on the weight of the food, and determine whether cooking is complete based on the internal temperature of the food.

[0037] In addition, the cooking device may further include a gas sensor that detects gas emitted from the cooking chamber and a temperature sensor that measures the internal temperature of the food being cooked.

[0038] The control unit can determine whether cooking is complete based on at least one of the change in the surface image of the food item, the internal temperature of the food item, and the gas discharged from the cooking chamber.

[0039] The above control unit can determine whether cooking is complete if at least two of the following conditions are satisfied.

[0040] <Condition>

[0041] Condition 1 - The saturation value of a specific part of the surface image of the above-mentioned food is lower than the reference saturation value

[0042] Condition 2 - The internal temperature value of the above cooked item exceeds the target temperature value

[0043] Condition 3 - The above gas contains a preset component in excess of a preset concentration

[0044]

[0045] The above control unit can stop the cooking operation when it determines that cooking is complete.

[0046] When the above control unit determines that cooking is complete, it can transmit cooking completion information as information that the user can recognize.

[0047] A cooking device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is characterized by comprising a cavity forming a cooking chamber inside, a heating unit providing heat to the cooking chamber, an image module acquiring an image of the cooking chamber, and a control unit that analyzes the image provided by the image module to determine the type of food to be cooked, executes a cooking operation corresponding to the type of food to be cooked, and determines whether cooking is complete based on a change in the surface image of the food to be cooked.

[0048] When the control unit determines that the food item is a food item based on quantity, it analyzes the image of the cooking chamber to calculate the quantity of the food item and can execute a cooking operation based on the quantity of the food item.

[0049] When the above control unit determines that the food item is a food item based on weight, it can calculate the weight of the food item using the weight sensor and execute a cooking operation based on the weight of the food item.

[0050] The control unit can determine whether cooking is complete based on the internal temperature of the food.

[0051] The above control unit can determine that cooking is complete when the gas contains a preset component in an amount exceeding a preset concentration.

[0052] A control method for a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is characterized by comprising the steps of: acquiring an image of a cooking chamber of a cooking appliance; determining the type of food inside the cooking chamber based on the image; detecting the weight of the food; and executing a cooking operation based on the image of the cooking chamber and the weight of the food.

[0053] In addition, the control method of the cooking device may include a step of determining whether cooking is complete based on at least one of the image of the cooking chamber, the weight of the food being cooked, the internal temperature of the food being cooked, and the gas discharged from the cooking chamber.

[0054] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0055] According to the cooking appliance of the present disclosure, there is one or more of the following effects.

[0056] The present disclosure has the advantage of automatically cooking with minimal user intervention by using a plurality of sensors to automatically cook according to the type and weight of the food and accurately determining the time when cooking is complete.

[0057] In addition, the present disclosure determines the time of completion of cooking through at least one of the image change of the surface of the food, the change in the internal temperature of the food, and the components of the exhaust gas according to the type of food, thereby enabling the accurate determination of the time of completion of cooking and providing the advantage of providing the best cooking.

[0058] In addition, the present disclosure classifies the types of cooked food into quantity-based cooked food and weight-based cooked food, sets the cooking time based on quantity for quantity-based cooked food, and sets the cooking time based on weight for weight-based cooked food, thereby providing the advantage of providing the best cooked food.

[0059] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of enabling accurate gas sensing by removing oil vapor from the gas discharged from the cavity and sensing it by a gas sensor.

[0060] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage that the vapor removal unit for removing oil vapor is easily detachable from the casing in a drawer-like manner, so the user can easily separate the vapor removal unit from the casing and easily clean the vapor removal unit.

[0061] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage that the vapor removal unit has a chamber formed by recessing one side of a water tank, a partition wall for filtering gas is formed on a cover covering the chamber, and an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe are connected to the cover, so that the chamber and the cover of the vapor removal unit can be easily cleaned simultaneously by separating only the cover while the water tank is removed from the casing.

[0062] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage that the inlet pipe of the vapor removal unit and the outlet pipe are detachably connected to the connector, making it easy to connect the vapor removal unit, the gas pump, and the gas sensor.

[0063] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of discharging gas generated inside the cooking chamber to the outside of the cooking chamber, and by placing a vapor removal unit and a gas sensor outside the cavity, accurate gas sensing is possible and the gas sensor is prevented from heating up.

[0064] The present disclosure has the advantage of reducing heat transferred to the image sensor and improving the reliability of the image sensor by positioning an image sensor that acquires an image inside a cavity outside the cavity, acquiring an image inside the cavity through a camera hole formed in the cavity, and covering the camera hole by a window located inside the cavity so that the image sensor is positioned far from the center of the cavity and an air gap is formed by the window located inside.

[0065] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of not requiring a separate fan to cool the image module because it cools the image module through air supplied from a blower fan that cools the electrical components placed on the upper surface of the cavity.

[0066] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of effectively cooling the image module by guiding air supplied from a blower fan that cools electrical components placed on the upper surface of the cavity to the image module through an air guide.

[0067] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description in the claims.

[0068] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] Figure 2 is a front view of the cooking appliance shown in Figure 1.

[0070] Figure 3 is a drawing of the cooking appliance of Figure 2 with the door open.

[0071] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the cooking appliance shown in FIG. 1 with the casing removed and viewed from the rear.

[0072] Figure 5 is a top view of the cooking appliance illustrated in Figure 4.

[0073] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the 6-6' line shown in Figure 1.

[0074] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the part where the image module shown in Figure 6 is installed.

[0075] Fig. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the image module shown in Fig. 6.

[0076] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the cooking device shown in FIG. 4 with the image module and other parts removed.

[0077] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the air guide around FIG. 10.

[0079] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12' of FIG. 10.

[0080] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the air guide illustrated in FIG. 10.

[0081] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a cooking device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a cooking device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0083] FIG. 16 is a top view of a cooking appliance according to another embodiment of the present disclosure with the cabinet removed.

[0084] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to another embodiment of the present disclosure with a portion of the casing removed.

[0085] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a separated tank assembly in a cooking appliance according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] FIG. 19 is a plan view showing the combined appearance of the supporter and tank assembly shown in FIG. 17.

[0087] FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of the supporter, base plate, and coupling housing shown in FIG. 17.

[0088] FIG. 21 is a drawing showing the tank assembly and combined housing shown in FIG. 19, with the tank housing omitted.

[0089] FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of the tank assembly shown in FIG. 18.

[0090] FIG. 23a is a perspective view of the filter cover shown in FIG. 22.

[0091] FIG. 23b is a perspective view of the filter cover shown in FIG. 23a viewed from below.

[0092] FIG. 23c is a perspective view of the tank shown in FIG. 22.

[0093] FIG. 24a is an exploded perspective view of the gas sensor unit shown in FIG. 21.

[0094] FIG. 24b is a cross-sectional perspective view of the sensing chamber body shown in FIG. 24a.

[0095] FIG. 25a is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0096] FIG. 25b is a perspective view showing the tank assembly separated from the cooking appliance shown in FIG. 25a.

[0097] FIG. 26 is a block diagram illustrating the control configuration of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0098] FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0099] FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a cooking device for determining the completion of cooking of FIG. 27.

[0100] FIG. 29 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a cooking appliance according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] FIG. 30 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a cooking appliance according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0102]

[0103] The advantages and features of the present disclosure and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided merely to ensure that the disclosure is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present disclosure is defined only by the scope of the claims. Throughout the specification, like reference numerals refer to like components.

[0104] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described with reference to drawings for explaining a cooking appliance (1) according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0105] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 2 is a front view of the cooking appliance (1) shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 3 is a view of the cooking appliance (1) of FIG. 2 with the door opened, FIG. 4 is a view of the cooking appliance (1) shown in FIG. 1 with the casing (10) removed and viewed from the rear, FIG. 5 is a view of the cooking appliance (1) shown in FIG. 4 viewed from the top.

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a cooking device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a casing (10) forming an exterior and a cavity (30) provided inside the casing (10). The casing (10) has an open front surface. The cavity (30) includes a front panel (31) covering the open front surface of the casing (10).

[0107] The cavity (30) forms a cooking chamber (32) inside. The cavity (30) includes a side surface (33) forming the left and right sides of the cooking chamber (32), an upper surface (37) forming the upper side, a lower surface (38) forming the lower side, and a rear surface (35) forming the rear side. The front surface of the cavity (30) is open. Food can be fed into the open front surface of the cavity (30).

[0108] A cooking device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a sealed roasting chamber (not shown) that is detachably disposed in a cooking chamber (32) formed inside a cavity (30). The sealed roasting chamber slides inside the cooking chamber (32) and can be detached from the cavity (30).

[0109] A cooking device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a door (20) rotatably provided on a front panel (31). The door (20) can selectively open or close the front opening of the cavity (30). The door (20) is in close contact with the front panel (31) to prevent heat and microwaves emitted into the cooking chamber (32) from escaping to the outside of the cooking chamber (32).

[0110] The door (20) may include a door handle (21) to facilitate the user's opening and closing of the door (20). The door (20) may include a viewing window (23) to allow the user to see inside the kitchen (32). The door handle (21) may be provided above the viewing window (23).

[0111] The cooking appliance (1) includes a control unit (130) that controls the operation of various heaters (40, 50, 60) and a microwave assembly (70) described later, a display unit (81) that displays the operating status, and an input unit (83) that receives the operation of the cooking appliance (1) from the user. The display unit (81) and the input unit may be located on the upper side of the door (20). The display unit (81) and the input unit (83) may be located on the upper side of the door handle (21).

[0112] Various heaters (40, 50, 60) and a microwave assembly (70) can be collectively referred to as the heating unit. The heating unit generates heat to heat the cooking chamber (32).

[0113] The cavity (30) forms a space with its upper, lower, left, right, and rear sides spaced apart from the casing (10), and various electrical components can be accommodated in the spaced-apart space between the cavity (30) and the casing (10). The space between the upper, lower, left, right, and rear sides of the cavity (30) and the casing (10) can be defined as an air flow space (11, 14, 15) through which air flows.

[0114] Additionally, the cooking device (1) may further include a blower fan (80) that circulates air within the air flow spaces (11, 14, 15). The blower fan (80) provides air to cool electrical components placed in the air flow spaces (11, 14, 15).

[0115] The cooking device (1) may further include a back plate (16). The back plate (16) may be positioned at the rear of the cavity and positioned to face the front panel (31). The top of the back plate (16) may be joined to the upper surface of the casing (10). The side of the back plate (16) may be joined to the rear of the casing. The back plate (16) maintains a gap between the casing (10) and the cavity (30). The back plate (16) may have a hole formed therein through which air supplied from the blower fan (80) passes.

[0116] Specifically, the blower fan (80) may be located behind the back surface (35) of the cavity (30). The blower fan (80) may be located in the air flow space (11, 14, 15) between the back surface (35) of the cavity (30) and the casing (10).

[0117] The blower fan (80) can supply air from outside the cavity (30) to the image module (90). The air that has been heat-exchanged with the image module (90) can be discharged to the outside of the cavity (30).

[0118] More specifically, air from outside the casing (10) flows into the air flow space (11, 14, 15) between the back surface (35) of the cavity (30) and the casing (10), moves to the air flow space (11, 14, 15) between the top surface (37) of the cavity (30) and the casing (10), exchanges heat with the electrical components and the image module (90), moves to the air flow space (11, 14, 15) between the side surface (33) of the cavity (30) and the casing (10), and is discharged to the outside of the casing (10).

[0119] Below, various heaters (40, 50, 60) and microwave assemblies (70) for heating food are described.

[0120] The cooking device (1) includes a light heater (40) installed on the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30). The electrode portion (42) of the light heater (40) is located in the space between the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30) and the casing (10), and the heater portion (41) that emits light (infrared rays) and radiant heat may be positioned on the lower side of the upper surface (37). The heater portion (41) of the light heater (40) may be positioned on the lower side of the upper surface (37) and exposed to the cooking chamber (32).

[0121] The light heater (40) emits radiant heat while emitting light when in operation. The operation of the light heater (40) can be visualized by the light generated when in operation. Additionally, the light heater (40) can rapidly raise the temperature inside the cooking chamber (32).

[0122] It is known that food items such as grains, meat, and fish can absorb radiant energy with a wavelength of 1.4 to 5 μm (hereinafter also referred to as the 'maximum absorption region'). Light reaching the wavelength range of the maximum absorption region is absorbed more by food, while other light is not absorbed by food but is reflected, making it ineffective for cooking food.

[0123] The light heater (40) may be a carbon heater. According to Planck's law, in order to emit wavelengths in the range of 1.4 to 5 μm, a surface temperature in the range of 1100 to 1400°C is required, and a carbon heater can be suitably used in this temperature range.

[0124] A cooking device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a microwave assembly (70) comprising a magnetron that generates microwaves. The microwave assembly (70) may heat a food item using microwaves emitted from the magnetron. Microwaves emitted from the magnetron may heat the food item by vibrating the water contained in the food item.

[0125] A microwave assembly (70) may be installed on the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30). The microwave assembly (70) may emit microwaves toward the cooking chamber (32) to heat the food contained in the cooking chamber (32).

[0126] A cooking device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a convection module (60) that supplies heat to a cooking chamber (32). The convection module (60) is installed on the back surface (35) of a cavity (30), and a blower opening (36) through which heat emitted from the convection module (60) passes is formed on the back surface (35).

[0127] The convection module (60) may include a convection heater (not shown) that emits heat, a convection fan (not shown) that supplies heat emitted from the convection heater into the cooking chamber (32), and a convection motor (not shown) that rotates the convection fan.

[0128] When the convection heater and convection motor are operated, the air is heated by the heat emitted from the convection heater, and the heated air is supplied into the cooking chamber (32) through the air outlet by the convection fan. The heat supplied by the convection module (60) can heat the food contained in the cooking chamber (32) by heat transfer by convection.

[0129] A heating chamber (411), which is one of the steam generating devices, is mounted on one side of the cavity (30). The heating chamber (411) heats the supplied steam water to generate steam in the form of steam and supplies it to the internal space of the cavity (30).

[0130] The heating chamber (411) is formed such that an inner surface and an outer surface form a certain amount of space, and the inner surface forms an internal space. Steam water for generating steam is contained in this internal space, and a steam heat source (not shown) for heating the steam water is provided in the space between the inner surface and the outer surface. Accordingly, in the heating chamber (411), the space containing the steam water and the space where the steam heat source is provided are partitioned, and the steam water is heated by the heat generated from the steam heat source to produce steam, and the generated steam is supplied to the internal space of the cavity (30).

[0131] The heating chamber (411) is provided with a steam heat source (not shown) that heats the steam water along the periphery of the space, while forming a space of a certain size in which steam water is received. This steam heat source is provided by being inserted into the space partitioned from the space in which the steam water is received.

[0132] The configuration in which the heating chamber (411), the steam heat source, and the generated steam are supplied to the cavity (30) can be collectively referred to as the steam supply unit (4).

[0133] A cooking device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a lower heater (50) that supplies heat to a cooking chamber (32) from the lower side at the bottom surface (38) of the cavity (30). The heat supplied by the lower heater (50) may be provided to the cooking chamber (32) as radiant heat.

[0134] Guides (34) protruding toward the cooking chamber (32) may be formed on the left and right sides (33) of the cavity (30). The sealed grilling chamber may be detachably seated on the guides (34). The sealed grilling chamber may be slid to be inserted into and withdrawn from the cooking chamber (32), and when inserted into the cooking chamber (32), it may be seated on the guides (34).

[0135] The guide (34) can be formed integrally with the side (33) of the cavity (30). The guide (34) can be protruded into the cooking chamber (32) through the plastic processing of the side (33) during the manufacturing process of the cavity (30).

[0136] Guides (34) are formed in pairs at the same height on both the left and right sides of the cavity (30). Guides (34) may include a plurality of guides (34) formed at different heights on the sides of the cavity (30).

[0137] Meanwhile, the cooking device (1) may further include a shelf (12, see FIG. 6) on which food is placed and which is inserted into the cooking chamber (32) to partition the cooking chamber (32).

[0138] The guide (34) may include a shelf guide (34a) that supports the shelf (12). The shelf guide (34a) may include a plurality of shelf guides (34a) formed at different heights on the side of the cavity (30), and the plurality of shelf guides (34a) may be provided in pairs on both the left and right sides of the cavity (30). The shelf guides (34a) formed on each of the left and right sides and forming pairs with each other may be formed at the same height.

[0139] The shelf (12) is inserted between adjacent guides among a plurality of guides (34) and can be inserted into and withdrawn from the cooking chamber (32).

[0140] The cavity (30) includes a stopper (34b) protruding from the side (33) toward the cooking chamber (32). The stopper (34b) may be located behind the guide (34) and may be formed between a plurality of guides (34) in the height direction. Thus, when the shelf (12) is inserted, the shelf (12) is not inserted excessively, thereby preventing the shelf (12) from impacting the convection module (60), etc., located on the back (35) of the cavity (30).

[0141] The stopper (34b) can be formed by plastically processing the cavity (30) in the same way as the guide (34) and protrude toward the cooking chamber (32).

[0142] The guide (34) includes a roasting chamber guide (34c) that supports the sealed roasting chamber. The sealed roasting chamber can be detachably seated on the roasting chamber guide (34c).

[0143] The roasting room guide (34c) may be located above the shelf guide (34a). If multiple shelf guides (34a) are provided, the roasting room guide (34c) may be located above the uppermost shelf guide (34a). The roasting room guide (34c) is the uppermost guide among the multiple guides (34).

[0144] By forming the grilling chamber guide (34c) at the uppermost position of the guide (34), the sealed grilling chamber can be positioned close to the light heater (40).

[0145] Meanwhile, a cooking device (1) according to one embodiment may further include an image module (90) for acquiring an image inside a cavity (30).

[0146] The image module (90) has a field of view that captures an image of the entire interior of the cavity (30) and is positioned so as not to be damaged by heat inside the cavity (30). The image module (90) is positioned in an air flow space (11, 14, 15) and can be cooled by air flowed by a blower fan (80).

[0147] The structure of the video module (90) is described in detail below.

[0148] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view cut along the 6-6' line shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the part where the image module (90) shown in FIG. 6 is installed, FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the image module (90) shown in FIG. 6, and FIG. 9 is a perspective view with the image module (90) and other parts removed from the cooking device (1) shown in FIG. 4.

[0149] Referring to FIGS. 6 through 9, the image module (90) acquires an image of the inside of the cavity (30). The image module (90) has a field of view capable of securing an image of the entire inside of the cavity (30) and can be positioned in a location protected by heat inside the cavity (30).

[0150] The cavity (30) may further include a module installation section (371) in which an image module (90) is installed. The module installation section (371) may include a camera hole (372) through which light supplied to the image sensor (91), described later, passes.

[0151] The module installation portion (371) may be a portion of the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30). The module installation portion (371) may be formed by bending a portion of the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30). Specifically, the module installation portion (371) may be an inclined surface having an incline with respect to the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30).

[0152] More specifically, the module installation part (371) may be inclined upward toward the rear. Preferably, the angle of inclination between the module installation part (371) and the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30) may be 20 to 30 degrees.

[0153] The module installation part (371) may be located adjacent to the front end on the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30). Additionally, the module installation part (371) may be positioned in the center of the left and right directions on the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30).

[0154] If the module installation part (371) is adjacent to the front end on the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30) and slopes upward toward the rear, the image sensor (91) installed in the module installation part (371) views the interior of the cavity (30) diagonally, thus providing the advantage of being able to achieve the widest viewing angle in the limited space of the cavity (30) and the advantage of eliminating blind spots that occur when the image sensor (91) is installed on the door.

[0155] The module installation part (371) is positioned adjacent to the front end on the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30), thereby reducing the distance between the optical heater (40) placed on the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30) and the image module (90) by the heat generated from the optical heater (40).

[0156] The camera hole (372) may be formed by penetrating the module installation part (371). The camera hole (372) may be circular. The camera hole (372) may be located in the center of the module installation part (371).

[0157] The camera hole (372) allows light to pass through but not microwaves, and can have a size that allows the image sensor (91) to have a suitable field of view. Preferably, the width (D1) of the camera hole (372) can be 8mm to 12mm. This is because if the width (D1) of the camera hole (372) is smaller than 8mm, the field of view of the image sensor (91) becomes too small, and if the width (D1) of the camera hole (372) is larger than 12mm, microwaves are emitted through the camera hole (372).

[0158] The image module (90) has a structure that secures an image of the inside of the cavity (30) without a blind and is protected by heat generated inside the cavity (30).

[0159] For example, the image module (90) may include an image sensor (91) and a window (94).

[0160] An image sensor (91) is positioned outside the cavity (30) and acquires an image of the inside of the cavity (30) through a camera hole (372) formed in the cavity (30). The image acquired by the image sensor (91) is transmitted to the control unit (130).

[0161] The image sensor (91) is a device that detects subject information and converts it into an electrical image signal. The image sensor (91) may include any one of a vidicon, a plumbeacon, a metal oxide semiconductor (MOS), and a charge-coupled device (CCD).

[0162] The image module (90) may further include a heat sink (93) that dissipates heat from the image sensor (91) and a power supply unit (92) that provides power to the image sensor (91). The power supply unit (92) may include a printed circuit board. The image sensor (91) may be positioned between the power supply unit (92) and the camera hole (372).

[0163] The heat sink (93) is made of a material with high heat transfer efficiency, such as metal, and can have a structure with a large surface area in contact with air. The heat sink (93) can be in contact with the power supply unit (92).

[0164] The image sensor (91) is positioned outside the cavity (30). The image sensor (91) may be positioned in the air flow space (11, 14, 15) between the cavity (30) and the casing (10). The image sensor (91) may be positioned spaced apart from the cavity (30). Thus, heat transfer to the image sensor (91) through the cavity (30) is suppressed.

[0165] If the image sensor (91) is positioned too far apart from the cavity (30) (camera hole (372)), the width of the camera hole (372) must be large to secure the field of view of the image sensor (91), but if the camera hole (372) becomes large, there is a problem that microwaves are emitted through the camera hole (372). In addition, if the image sensor (91) is positioned too close to the cavity (30) (camera hole (372)), heat from inside the cavity (30) is transferred to the image sensor (91) through the camera hole (372), which may cause the image sensor (91) to malfunction.

[0166] Therefore, to solve the above-mentioned problem, it is preferable that the width of the camera hole (372) be greater than the distance (T1) between the camera hole (372) and the image sensor (91). More preferably, the width of the camera hole (372) may be 5 to 6 times the distance (T1) between the camera hole (372) and the image sensor (91).

[0167] The image sensor (91) can be positioned to overlap with the camera hole (372). Specifically, the image sensor (91) can be positioned to overlap with the camera hole (372) along the axial direction (Ax) of the camera hole (372). Thus, light inside the cavity (30) can be accurately detected by the image sensor (91).

[0168]

[0169] The window (94) is placed inside the cavity (30) to prevent the image sensor (91) from being damaged by various contaminants generated from the food inside the cavity (30) and to form an air gap to reduce the heat transferred to the image sensor (91).

[0170] The window (94) includes a material through which light is transmitted. The window (94) may include a resin or glass material.

[0171] The window (94) can cover at least the camera hole (372). Specifically, the window (94) can cover the camera hole (372) and a portion of the module installation part (371) surrounding the camera hole (372). The window (94) can come into contact with the upper surface (37) and the lower surface of the cavity (30).

[0172] Preferably, a gasket (96) may be positioned to seal the inner surface of the cavity (30) around the window (94) and the camera hole (372). The gasket (96) may be shaped to wrap around the edge of the camera hole (372). The gasket (96) may be in contact with one side of the cavity (30) forming the edge of the camera hole (372) and the window (94).

[0173] The window (94) may be positioned to overlap with the camera hole (372). Specifically, at least a portion of the window (94) may be positioned to overlap with the camera hole (372) along the axial direction (Ax) of the camera hole (372).

[0174] The window (94) may be positioned apart from the camera hole (372). If the window (94) is positioned too far apart from the cavity (30) (camera hole (372)), the width of the window (94) must be large to secure the field of view of the image sensor (91). However, if the width of the window (94) increases, the size of other components such as the bracket also increases, which raises manufacturing costs and reduces the space inside the cavity (30). Additionally, if the window (94) is positioned too close to the cavity (30) (camera hole (372)), heat from inside the cavity (30) is transferred to the image sensor (91) through the window (94), which may cause the window (94) to malfunction.

[0175] Therefore, to solve the above-mentioned problem, it is preferable that the width of the camera hole (372) be greater than the distance (T2) between the camera hole (372) and the window (94). More preferably, the width of the camera hole (372) may be 5 to 6 times the distance (T2) between the camera hole (372) and the window (94).

[0176] The image sensor (91) acts as an air gap between the internal space of the camera hole (372), the space between the camera hole (372) and the image sensor (91), and the space between the window (94) and the camera hole (372), so that heat inside the cavity (30) is primarily delayed by the window (94) and secondarily delayed by the air gap. In addition, since the image sensor (91) is spaced apart from the cavity (30), the heat transferred from the cavity (30) is reduced.

[0177] It is preferable that the width of the window (94) be greater than the width of the camera hole (372). This is because if the width of the window (94) is small, it is difficult to provide a sufficient field of view to the image sensor (91). It is preferable that the width of the window (94) be greater than the distance (T2) between the camera hole (372) and the window (94).

[0178]

[0179] The image module (90) may further include an imaging cover (95) that is spaced apart from the window (94) and covers the window (94).

[0180] The imaging cover (95) is placed inside the cavity (30) to prevent the window (94) from being damaged by various contaminants generated from the food inside the cavity (30) and to form an air gap to reduce the heat transferred to the window (94).

[0181] The imaging cover (95) includes a material that transmits light. The imaging cover (95) may include a resin or glass material.

[0182] The imaging cover (95) can cover at least the window (94). Specifically, the imaging cover (95) can be positioned to overlap with the window (94). Specifically, at least a portion of the imaging cover (95) can be positioned to overlap with the window (94) along the axial direction (Ax) of the camera hole (372).

[0183] The imaging cover (95) may be positioned apart from the window (94). If the imaging cover (95) is positioned too far apart from the window (94), the width of the imaging cover (95) must be large to secure the field of view of the window (94). However, if the width of the imaging cover (95) increases, the size of other components such as brackets also increases, which raises manufacturing costs and reduces the space inside the cavity (30). Additionally, if the imaging cover (95) is positioned too close to the window (94), heat from inside the cavity (30) is transferred to the window (94) through the imaging cover (95), which may cause the image sensor (91) to malfunction.

[0184] Therefore, to solve the above-mentioned problem, it is preferable that the width of the camera hole (372) be greater than the distance (T3) between the window (94) and the imaging cover (95). More preferably, the width of the camera hole (372) may be 5 to 6 times the distance (T3) between the window (94) and the imaging cover (95).

[0185] It is preferable that the width of the imaging cover (95) be greater than the width of the camera hole (372). This is because if the width of the imaging cover (95) is small, it is difficult to provide a sufficient field of view to the image sensor (91). It is also preferable that the width of the imaging cover (95) be greater than the distance (T3) between the window (94) and the imaging cover (95).

[0186] The image sensor (91), window (94), and imaging cover (95) can be positioned so as to overlap in the axial direction (Ax) of the camera hole (372).

[0187] The cooking device (1) may further include a bracket for fixing the positions of the image sensor (91), the window (94), and the imaging cover (95). The bracket may further include a sensor bracket (96) and a cover bracket (97).

[0188] The sensor bracket (96) is attached to the outside of the cavity (30) to secure the image sensor (91). The sensor bracket (96) can be attached to the upper surface of the module mounting portion (371). A fastening hole (373) can be formed in the module mounting portion (371) to which a fastening member penetrating the sensor bracket (96) is attached.

[0189] The sensor bracket (96) fixes the position of the image sensor (91). The sensor bracket (96) can accommodate the power supply unit (92) and the heat sink (93). The sensor bracket (96) can support the image sensor (91) so as to be spaced apart from the camera hole (372). The sensor bracket (96) may include a plurality of through holes through which air flows to cool the image sensor (91) and the power supply unit (92).

[0190] The cover bracket (97) is coupled to the interior of the cavity (30) to secure the window (94). The cover bracket (97) can be coupled to the lower surface of the module installation part (371). A fastening hole (373) can be formed in the module installation part (371) to which a fastening member penetrating the cover bracket (97) is coupled.

[0191] The cover bracket (97) fixes the position of the window (94). The cover bracket (97) can support the window (94) so ​​as to be spaced apart from the camera hole (372). The cover bracket (97) fixes the position of the imaging cover (95). The cover bracket (97) can support the imaging cover (95) so as to be spaced apart from the window (94).

[0192] Specifically, the cover bracket (97) may include a ring-shaped receiving portion (973) that accommodates the window (94) and the imaging cover (95), and a spacing projection (971) that protrudes from the receiving portion (973) while maintaining a gap between the window (94) and the imaging cover (95). A space (972) between the window (94) and the imaging cover (95) is formed inside the receiving portion (973). At this time, the gasket (96) can seal the gap between the cover bracket (97) and the module installation portion (371).

[0193] The cooking device may include an air guide to increase the airflow velocity and flow rate of the air supplied from the blower fan to the video module. The air guide guides the air supplied from the blower fan to the video module.

[0194] Hereinafter, a cooking device (1') including an air guide (200) will be described in detail.

[0195] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a cooking device (1') according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the air guide (200) shown in FIG. 10, FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12' of FIG. 10, and FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the air guide (200) shown in FIG. 10.

[0196] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 13, a cooking device (1') according to another embodiment (second embodiment) of the present disclosure includes a casing (10) that encloses at least a portion of a cavity (30) and defines an air flow space in which air flows between the cavity (30), an image module (90) installed in the air flow space to acquire an image inside the cavity (30), a blower fan (80) that flows air in the air flow space, and an air guide (200) that guides a portion of the air flowing in the air flow space to the image module (90).

[0197] In addition, the cooking device (1') according to the second embodiment is characterized by having an air guide (200) additionally installed in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 9 (first embodiment). Hereinafter, the differences from the first embodiment will be described, and the configuration of the second embodiment without special description will be considered identical to the first embodiment.

[0198] The cavity (30) forms a space with the upper surface, left side, right side, and rear side separated from the casing (10), and various electrical components can be accommodated in the spaced-apart space between the cavity (30) and the casing (10). The space between the upper, left, right, and rear sides of the cavity (30) and the casing (10) can be defined as an air flow space (11, 14, 15) through which air flows.

[0199] The air flow spaces (11, 14, 15) can be defined as an upper flow space (11) between the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30) and the upper surface of the casing (10), a rear flow space (15) between the rear surface (35) of the cavity (30) and the back surface (13) of the casing (10), and a side flow space (14) between the side surface (33) of the cavity (30) and the side surface of the casing (10). The back surface (13) of the casing (10) may also be referred to as a back cover.

[0200] The upper flow space (11), rear flow space (15), and side flow space (14) are connected to each other so that air can flow.

[0201] A blower fan (80) can be installed in the rear flow space (15). Specifically, the blower fan (80) can be installed at the rear end of the rear side (35) of the cavity (30). An image module (90) is located in the upper flow space (11).

[0202] Air flowing from the blower fan (80) flows through the rear flow space (15) to the upper flow space (11), and from the upper flow space (11) through the side flow space (14) to the discharge port (not shown) at the bottom of the cavity (30). At this time, the blower fan (80) is installed so that air flows from the bottom to the top of the rear flow space (15).

[0203] The air guide (200) guides a portion of the air flowing in the air flow space to the image module (90), thereby cooling the image module (90) quickly and effectively.

[0204] For example, the air guide (200) may include an air passage (270) comprising an inlet (213) into which air from the air flow space is introduced, and an outlet (223) into which the air introduced from the inlet (213) is discharged toward the image module (90).

[0205] The air passage (270) may be closed except for the inlet (213) and outlet (223), but may also be open except for the inlet (213) and outlet (223).

[0206] The inlet (213) may be located closer to the video module (90) than the outlet (223). The outlet (223) may be located closer to the blower fan (80) than the inlet (213). Specifically, the inlet (213) may be located further forward than the outlet (223). The outlet (223) and the inlet (213) may be placed in the upper flow space (11).

[0207] At least a portion of the outlet (223) may be positioned to overlap with the image module (90) in the front-rear direction. It is preferable that the outlet (223) and the inlet (213) completely overlap or at least partially overlap in the front-rear direction.

[0208] The outlet (223) and the inlet (213) may not overlap in the front-rear direction, but in this case, the air flow path is formed with a large slope in the front-rear direction, so air resistance is increased.

[0209] The inlet (213) may be open in the front-rear direction and closed in the up-down and left-right directions. Accordingly, a portion of the air flowing from the rear to the front within the upper flow space (11) may be introduced into the inlet (213).

[0210] The outlet (223) may be open in the front-rear (FR) direction and closed in the up-down (UD) and left-right (LeRi) directions. Accordingly, air introduced through the inlet (213) can be supplied to the image module (90) through the outlet (223).

[0211] Of course, depending on the embodiment, the inlet (213) and outlet (223) may be open in the front-rear direction, open in either the up-down direction or the left-right direction, and closed in the remaining direction.

[0212] The cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (213) may be the same as the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet (223). In order to increase the flow rate and volume of air supplied to the image module (90) and improve heat exchange efficiency, it is preferable that the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (213) be larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet (223). Here, the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (213) and the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet (223) refer to the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (213) and the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet (223) when the cooking device is cut along a plane parallel to the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0213] For example, the cross-sectional area of ​​the air passage (270) can increase from the outlet (223) to the inlet (213).

[0214] As another example, the cross-sectional area of ​​the air passage (270) may increase from the outlet (223) to the inlet (213) and then decrease again.

[0215] Below, the detailed structure of the air guide (200) is described.

[0216] The air guide (200) can define an air passage (270) together with one side of the cavity (30). Specifically, the air guide (200) is coupled to the top of the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30) and can define an air passage (270) together with the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30).

[0217] For example, the air guide (200) may include two first guide sides (212) that are in contact with the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30) and are spaced apart from each other, a first guide upper surface (211) connecting the upper ends of the first guide sides (212), two second guide sides (222) that are in contact with the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30) and are spaced apart from each other, with one end connected to the first guide sides (212), and a second guide upper surface (221) that connects the upper ends of the second guide sides (222) and is connected to one end of the second guide upper surface (221).

[0218] The lower ends of the two first guide sides (212) are in contact with the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30), and the upper ends of the first guide sides (212) are connected by the first guide upper surface (211), so that an inlet (213) is defined surrounded by the two first guide sides (212), the first guide upper surface (211), and the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30) facing the first guide upper surface (211).

[0219] Of course, depending on the embodiment, the lower ends of the two first guide sides (212) may be joined to the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30).

[0220] The lower ends of the two second guide sides (222) are in contact with the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30), and the upper ends of the second guide sides (222) are connected by the second guide upper surface (221), so that an outlet (223) is defined surrounded by the two second guide sides (222), the second guide upper surface (221), and the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30) facing the second guide upper surface (221).

[0221] The front end of the first guide side (212) is connected to the rear end of the second guide side (222), and the front end of the first guide upper surface (211) is connected to the rear end of the second guide upper surface (221).

[0222] The air guide (200) may have a shape in which an inlet (213) is formed at the rear end, an outlet (223) is formed at the front end, and an opening (230) is formed at the bottom end. The bottom opening (230) of the air guide (200) is covered by the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30).

[0223] The first guide sides (212) and the second guide sides (222) extend in a direction that intersects the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30), and the first guide upper surface (211) and the second guide upper surface (221) may extend in a direction parallel to or at an acute angle to the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30).

[0224] Specifically, the second guide upper surface (221) may be inclined downward from the rear to the front. If the second guide upper surface (221) is inclined downward from the rear to the front, air directed downward from the rear to the front is efficiently supplied to the image module (90) installed at an angle on the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30).

[0225] The distance between the first guide sides (212) can be further from the rear to the front, and the distance between the second guide sides (222) can be closer from the rear to the front.

[0226] The cooking device (1') may further include a barrier wall (39) protruding from the top of the cavity (30). The barrier wall (39) prevents air flowing from the rear to the front of the cavity (30) from leaking out through the door.

[0227] The barrier wall (39) may protrude upward from the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30) and extend in the left and right directions. The barrier wall (39) may be positioned between the image module (90) and the air guide (200). The barrier wall (39) may further include a flow groove (39a) communicating with the outlet (223).

[0228] The flow groove (39a) may be formed by a portion of the barrier wall (39) being sunken in. For example, the flow groove (39a) may be formed by sunken from the top to the bottom of the barrier wall (39). Of course, depending on the embodiment, the flow groove (39a) may be defined as a hole between the two barrier walls (39) when the barrier wall (39) is separated into two.

[0229] The flow groove (39a) can be connected to the outlet (223). Here, being connected means that it is positioned so that air flows between the flow groove (39a) and the outlet (223).

[0230] Specifically, the left side (39b) of the flow groove (39a) may be connected to or adjacent to one of the front sides (222) of the second guide side, and the right side (39c) of the flow groove (39a) may be connected to or adjacent to the other front side (222) of the second guide side.

[0231] The fluid groove (39a) may be positioned adjacent to the image module (90). Specifically, the fluid groove (39a) may be positioned to overlap with the image module (90) in the front-rear direction. Of course, the fluid groove (39a) may be positioned to overlap with the outlet (223) in the front-rear direction.

[0232] The barrier wall (39) may be positioned adjacent to the front end on the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30). The air guide (200) may be positioned adjacent to the front end on the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30). When the air guide (200) is positioned adjacent to the front end on the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30), it has the advantage of having a short air guide (200) length and efficiently providing air to the image module (90).

[0233] There is no limitation on the length of the air guide (200) in the forward direction, but since other electrical components are placed in the upper flow space (11), it is preferable that it be shorter than half the length of the upper front-rear direction of the cavity (30). That is, the distance between the inlet (213) and the outlet in the forward direction is preferable to be shorter than half the length of the upper front-rear direction of the cavity (30).

[0234]

[0235] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a cooking device (1'') according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0236] Referring to FIG. 14, a cooking device (1'') according to another embodiment of the present disclosure (third embodiment) has a difference from the first embodiment in that it further includes an air guide (200'). Additionally, the third embodiment has a difference in the structure and arrangement of the air guide (200') compared to the second embodiment.

[0237] Hereinafter, the third embodiment will be described with a focus on the differences from the second embodiment, and configurations not specifically described will be considered similar to the second embodiment.

[0238] In the third embodiment, the air guide (200') has an outlet (223') positioned in the upper flow space (11) and an inlet (213') positioned in the rear flow space (15). Thus, a part of the air guide (200') can be positioned in the upper flow space (11), and another part of the air guide (200') can be positioned in the rear flow space (15).

[0239] A part of the air guide (200') can be connected to the rear surface (35) of the cavity (30), and another part of the air guide (200') can be connected to the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30).

[0240] The inlet (213') of the air guide (200') may be open downward, and the outlet (223') may be open forward. The air passage (270) may be in the shape of an "L". Air discharged upward from the blower fan (80) may be drawn into the inlet (213') in the rear space, diverted, and then exhausted forward through the outlet (223').

[0241] The air guide (200') may be tubular in shape. Specifically, the air guide (200') may include a first flow path (214) located in the rear flow space (15) and having an inlet (213') at the bottom, and a second flow path (224) that extends forward in communication with the top of the first flow path (214) and has an outlet (223') at the front end. At least a portion of the first flow path (214) may be located in the upper flow space (11).

[0242] Of course, although not shown in the drawing, the front end of the first flow path (214) may be open and the front end of the first flow path (214) may be closed by the rear surface (35) of the cavity (30), and the bottom end of the second flow path (224) may be open and the bottom end of the second flow path (224) may be closed by the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30).

[0243]

[0244] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a cooking device (1''') according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0245] Referring to FIG. 15, the cooking device (1''') according to another embodiment of the present disclosure (fourth embodiment) has a difference in the arrangement of the air guide (200'') compared to the second embodiment.

[0246] Hereinafter, the fourth embodiment will be described with a focus on the differences from the second embodiment, and configurations not specifically described will be considered similar to the second embodiment.

[0247] The air guide (200'') of the fourth embodiment may be positioned adjacent to the rear end on the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30). The inlet (213) of the air guide (200'') may be positioned adjacent to the rear end of the cavity (30) than the outlet (223).

[0248]

[0249] FIG. 16 is a top view of a cooking appliance according to another embodiment of the present disclosure with the cabinet removed.

[0250] Referring to FIG. 16, the cooking device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure (the fifth embodiment) has a structural difference in the air guide (200''') compared to the second embodiment.

[0251] Hereinafter, the fifth embodiment is described with a focus on the differences from the second embodiment, and configurations not specifically described are considered to be similar to the second embodiment.

[0252] The air guide (200''') of the fifth embodiment may include a first guide surface (252) and a second guide surface (253).

[0253] The first guide surface (252) and the second guide surface (253) are arranged facing each other so that a space (251) can be defined between the first guide surface (252) and the second guide surface (253). The space (251) between the first guide surface (252) and the second guide surface (253) defines an air passage (270).

[0254] The first guide surface (252) may be extended in the vertical direction and the front-rear direction. The first guide surface (252) may be extended in the vertical direction and may have an acute angle of inclination in the front-rear direction.

[0255] The second guide surface (253) may be extended in the vertical direction and the front-rear direction. The second guide surface (253) may be extended in the vertical direction and may have an acute angle of inclination in the front-rear direction.

[0256] The first guide surface (252) and the second guide surface (253) may be positioned between the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30) and the upper surface of the casing (10). The upper end of the first guide surface (252) may be connected to the upper end of the casing (10), and the lower end of the first guide surface (252) may be spaced apart from or in contact with the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30). Conversely, the upper end of the first guide surface (252) may be spaced apart from or in contact with the upper end of the casing (10), and the lower end of the first guide surface (252) may be coupled to the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30).

[0257] The upper end of the second guide surface (253) is connected to the upper end of the casing (10), and the lower end of the second guide surface (253) may be spaced apart from or in contact with the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30). Of course, conversely, the upper end of the second guide surface (253) may be spaced apart from or in contact with the upper end of the casing (10), and the lower end of the second guide surface (253) may be coupled to the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30).

[0258] Accordingly, the air guide (200) can cool the image module (90) through an air passage (270) defined by two opposing plates, the upper surface (37) of the cavity (30), and the upper surface of the casing (10). Thus, there is an advantage of reducing the manufacturing cost of the air guide (200).

[0259] The left side (39b) of the flow groove (39a) may be positioned adjacent to the front end of the first guide surface (252) or may be in contact with the front end of the first guide surface (252). The right side (39c) of the flow groove (39a) may be positioned adjacent to the front end of the second guide surface (253) or may be in contact with the front end of the first guide surface (252).

[0260] The distance between the first guide surface (252) and the second guide surface (253) can be reduced as it moves forward. Accordingly, the velocity and flow rate of the air moving from the rear to the front are increased.

[0261]

[0262] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to another embodiment of the present disclosure with a portion of the casing (10) removed, and FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a cooking appliance according to another embodiment of the present disclosure with the tank assembly (420, 430) separated.

[0263] Referring to FIG. 17 and FIG. 18, a cooking appliance (100) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure (sixth embodiment) has the difference from the first to fifth embodiments in that a gas sensor (336), a gas pump (320), and a tank assembly (420, 430) are added.

[0264] Hereinafter, the 6th embodiment will be described with a focus on the differences from the 1st to 5th embodiments.

[0265] Additionally, a base plate (111) may be provided at the bottom of the cavity (30). The upper surface of the base plate (111) may be fixed to the bottom of the front panel (31), back plate (16), and back cover (13). The base plate (111) may be the lower surface of the casing (10). Of course, the base plate (111) may have a larger surface area than the lower surface of the cavity (30) when viewed from the vertical direction.

[0266] A space (11, 14) may be located between the cavity (30) and the casing (10).

[0267] A lateral flow space (14) is located at the upper portion of both ends of the base plate (111). Both lateral ends of the base plate (111) may protrude outwardly from the lower portion of the cavity (30).

[0268] A flange (115) may be formed on the edge of the base plate (111). The base plate (111) is plate-shaped parallel to the horizontal direction, and the flange (115) may protrude upward from the edge of the base plate (111). The side of the casing (10) may be joined to the flange (115).

[0269] An exhaust port (not shown) may be formed inside the base plate (111). The exhaust port can serve as an outlet through which air flowing inside the cooking appliance (100)(1) by the operation of the blower fan (80) forms an airflow and is discharged to the outside through the exhaust duct (112). Additionally, a leg may be provided at the bottom corner of the base plate (111).

[0270] Additionally, an electrical room may be formed in the space between the cavity (30) and the casing (10). A plurality of electrical components and circuit boards (113) may be installed in the electrical room. The electrical components and circuit boards (113) may be located on the upper part of the base plate (111). The electrical components and circuit boards (113) may be placed in the side flow space (14) and / or the upper flow space (11).

[0271] Preferably, the electrical components and the circuit board (113) can be installed adjacent to the top on the side (33) of the cavity (30).

[0272] At this time, the cavity (30) may further include a discharge section (114) for discharging gas inside the cooking chamber (32) to the outside of the cavity (30). The discharge section (114) may be a hole or a pipe formed in the cavity (30) that connects the cooking chamber (32) and the outside of the cavity (30).

[0273] The discharge section (114) may be a tube protruding from the cavity (30). The discharge section (114) may be installed on the side (33) of the cavity (30). The discharge section (114) may be connected by a tube to the oil vapor removal section (420) described later.

[0274] The tank assembly (420, 430) includes a tank (430) that stores steam water supplied to the heating chamber (411) and a vapor removal unit (420) that removes oil vapor from the gas discharged from the cavity (30). Of course, the tank (430) may also store water used in the cavity (30).

[0275] Such tank assemblies (420, 430) can be detachably mounted in the space outside the cavity (30). Since the tank assemblies (420, 430) are detachably positioned in the space outside the cavity (30), the heating of the oil vapor removal unit (420) by heat generated in the cavity (30) is limited, and the tank assemblies (420, 430) can be easily separated from the casing (10) or the cavity (30) to supply steam water or clean the oil vapor removal unit (420).

[0276] Specifically, the tank assembly (420, 430) can be detachably mounted to the front of the casing (10). That is, the tank assembly (420, 430) can move forward from the casing (10) to be separated from the casing (10), and move backward to be coupled to the casing (10).

[0277] The tank assembly (420, 430) may be located in the space outside the casing (10). Of course, in other embodiments, the tank assembly (420, 430) may be located in the space between the casing (10) and the cavity (30).

[0278] For example, the tank assembly (420, 430) may be located below the cavity (30). When the tank assembly (420, 430) is located below the cavity (30), there are advantages such as being able to supply steam water, remove oil vapor, and easily drain condensate without affecting the size of the cavity (30).

[0279] Specifically, the tank assembly (420, 430) can be detachably attached to the base plate (111), which is the lower surface of the casing (10). Alternatively, the tank assembly (420, 430) can be detachably installed in front of a supporter (490) attached to the lower surface of the casing (10).

[0280] Below, the structure of the supporter (490) of the tank assembly (420, 430) and the water supply pump (610), gas pump (320), and gas sensor (336) installed in the supporter (490) will be described in detail.

[0281]

[0282] FIG. 19 is a plan view showing the combined appearance of the supporter (490) and tank assembly (420, 430) shown in FIG. 17, FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of the supporter (490), base plate (111), and coupling housing (450) shown in FIG. 17, FIG. 21 is a drawing showing the tank assembly (420, 430) and coupling housing (450) shown in FIG. 19, with the tank housing (480) omitted.

[0283] Referring to FIGS. 19 to 21, the supporter (490) supports the lower part of the casing (10). The front-to-back width of the supporter (490) is formed to be shorter than the front-to-back width of the casing (10), thereby forming a space in which a tank assembly (420, 430) is positioned at the lower part of the casing (10).

[0284] The supporter (490) may have a space that is open upward. The supporter (490) may have a shape corresponding to the base plate (111) and may have a shorter front-to-back length than the base plate (111).

[0285] A supporter (490) is attached to the lower surface of the base plate (111). Specifically, the supporter (490) may include a plate-shaped support lower surface (497) and a support side (496) extending upward from the edge of the support lower surface (497). The base plate (111) is supported on the support side (496).

[0286] The space, which is surrounded by the support side (496) and the support bottom (497) and has an open top, can define a space (495) in which a gas pump (320), a water supply pump (610), and a gas sensor (336) are accommodated. To increase rigidity, a plurality of ribs (493) protruding from the support bottom (497) can be extended in the front-rear and left-right directions.

[0287] The supporter (490) may include a leg coupling portion (492) to which a leg (not shown) is coupled. The leg is coupled to the lower part of the supporter (490) to support the supporter (490) or to adjust the height of the supporter (490). The leg coupling portion (492) may be located adjacent to the rear end of the supporter (490).

[0288] The supporter (490) includes an assembly receiving space (498) in which a tank assembly (420, 430) is received. The assembly receiving space (498) may be formed by recessing one side of the supporter (490). Specifically, the assembly receiving space (498) may be formed by recessing the front side of the supporter (490) toward the rear.

[0289] More specifically, the assembly receiving space (498) may be a space in which a part (494) of the support side (496) is recessed backward and is open in the forward and vertical directions.

[0290] The assembly receiving space (498) may be positioned to overlap vertically with the casing (10). The assembly receiving space (498) may be positioned to overlap vertically with the area between the front and center of the base plate (111).

[0291] The supporter (490) can be positioned so as not to overlap vertically with the front end of the base plate (111). Therefore, even if the tank assembly (420, 430) is attached to the front end of the supporter (490), the tank assembly (420, 430) does not protrude forward beyond the door (20).

[0292] The supporter (490) may be equipped with a weight sensor (150) for weighing food in the cooking chamber. Three weight sensors (150) are arranged at a 120-degree angle and can weigh the base plate (111).

[0293] Additionally, the supporter (490) may further include a tray coupling part (491) to which a tray (460, 480) accommodating a tank assembly (420, 430) described later is coupled. The tray coupling part (491) to be coupled may be installed on the front of the supporter (490). Two tray coupling parts (491) may be installed. An assembly receiving space (498) is located between the two tray coupling parts (491).

[0294] The tray coupling part (491) may have a structure in which the trays (460, 480) are coupled by magnetism and the trays (460, 480) are coupled by shape. Specifically, the tray coupling part (491) may be a projection inserted into the trays (460, 480).

[0295] The cooking device may further include a coupling housing (450). If the tank assembly (420, 430) is detached from a space with an open bottom, problems may occur where it sags or detaches due to the weight of the steam water inside the tank (430).

[0296] Therefore, the coupling housing (450) solves these problems. The coupling housing (450) is located within the assembly receiving space (498) and is coupled to the lower surface of the casing (10). Specifically, the coupling housing (450) can be coupled to the lower surface of the base plate (111) by a housing coupling part (458). A fastening means, such as a screw, can be fastened to the housing coupling part (458).

[0297] The coupling housing (450) defines a space where the tank assembly (420, 430) is coupled. Specifically, the coupling housing (450) may be in the shape of a box with the front and top surfaces open. Since the top of the coupling housing (450) is covered by the base plate (111), the tank assembly (420, 430) is coupled between the base plate (111) and the bottom surface of the coupling housing (450).

[0298] The coupling housing (450) may further include a connector through which a pipe through which steam water of the tank (430) flows and a pipe through which a gas flows are attached. The connector may include a water supply connector (453), a first gas connector (452), and a second gas connector (451). Through the connector, the user can easily configure the flow paths for steam water and gas.

[0299] The water supply connector (453) is detachably connected to the water supply pipe (431) through which steam water is discharged. The water supply connector (453) can be installed to penetrate the rear of the coupling housing (450). The water supply connector (453) is connected to the inlet pipe (612) of the water supply pump (610).

[0300] The water supply connector (453) may further include a steam pipe insertion part (453a) that penetrates the rear surface of the coupling housing (450) to define a space into which the water supply pipe (431) is inserted. The steam pipe insertion part (453a) may be made of elastic rubber material. The diameter of the steam pipe insertion part (453a) may be large enough to allow the water supply pipe (431) to be press-fitted.

[0301] The first gas connector (452) is detachable from the cover inlet pipe (421) that supplies gas to the oil vapor removal section (420). The first gas connector (452) can be installed to penetrate the rear surface of the coupling housing (450). The first gas connector (452) is connected to the discharge section (114) of the cavity (30) by a tube.

[0302] The first gas connector (452) may further include an inlet pipe insertion part (452a) that defines a space into which a cover inlet pipe (421) is inserted by penetrating the rear surface of the coupling housing (450). The inlet pipe insertion part (452a) may be made of an elastic rubber material. The diameter of the inlet pipe insertion part (452a) may be large enough to allow the cover inlet pipe (421) to be press-fitted.

[0303] The second gas connector (451) is detachable from the cover outlet pipe (422) through which gas is discharged from the oil vapor removal unit (420). The second gas connector (451) can be installed to penetrate the rear surface of the coupling housing (450). The second gas connector (451) is connected to the inlet pipe (322) of the gas pump (320).

[0304] The second gas connector (451) may further include an outlet pipe insertion part (451a) that defines a space into which a cover outlet pipe (422) is inserted by penetrating the rear surface of the coupling housing (450). The outlet pipe insertion part (451a) may be made of an elastic rubber material. The diameter of the outlet pipe insertion part (451a) may be large enough to allow the cover outlet pipe (422) to be press-fitted.

[0305] The gas pump (320) can pump the gas discharged from the oil vapor removal unit (420) and supply it to the gas sensor unit (330). The gas sensor (336) and the chamber housing it can be collectively referred to as the gas sensor unit (330).

[0306] The gas pump (320) may include an inlet pipe (322) through which gas is introduced and an outlet pipe (321) through which pressurized gas is discharged. The gas pump (320) may be fixed to a supporter (490) by a pump bracket (323).

[0307] The inlet pipe (322) of the gas pump (320) can be connected to the oil vapor removal unit (420). Specifically, the inlet pipe (322) of the gas pump (320) can be connected to the second gas connector (451).

[0308] The outlet pipe (321) of the gas pump (320) is connected to the gas inlet (331) of the gas sensor unit (330). The gas pump (320) provides pressure for the oil vapor removal unit (420) to draw in gas and provides compressed gas to the gas sensor (336), thereby enabling rapid removal of oil vapor from the gas and accurate sensing. Of course, depending on the embodiment, the gas pump (320) may be omitted.

[0309] The gas sensor (336) detects the type and concentration of gas discharged from the oil vapor removal unit (420). The gas sensor (336) detects the type and concentration of gas discharged from the gas pump (320). The detailed structure of the gas sensor (336) will be described later.

[0310] The water supply pump (610) supplies steam water discharged from the tank (430) to the heating chamber (411). Specifically, the inlet pipe (612) of the water supply pump (610) is connected to the water supply connector (453), and the outlet pipe (611) of the water supply pump (610) can be connected to the heating chamber (411).

[0311] The water supply pump (610), gas pump (320), and gas sensor (336) may be located outside the cavity (30) or casing (10). Specifically, the water supply pump (610), gas pump (320), and gas sensor (336) may be installed in a supporter (490).

[0312] When a water supply pump (610), a gas pump (320), and a gas sensor (336) are installed on a supporter (490) and a tank assembly (420, 430) is installed on the supporter (490) so as to be detachable, the heavy and non-replaceable structure for providing steam is fixed to the supporter (490), and the structure that needs to be separated to supply water frequently is configured to be detachable, thereby improving user convenience.

[0313] In addition, to accurately sense the gas, a gas sensor (336) is placed on a supporter (490) with a relatively low temperature, and a vapor removal unit (420) is installed detachably on the supporter (490), thereby improving user convenience and making it easy to clean the vapor removal unit (420).

[0314] The tank assembly (420, 430) may further include a tray (460, 480) that accommodates and supports the tank (430) and is detachably mounted to the casing (10).

[0315] The tray (460, 480) accommodates the tank assembly (420, 430) so that when a user grasps the tray (460, 480) with their hand and separates it, the tank assembly (420, 430) can be easily separated from the casing (10).

[0316] One side of the tray (460, 480) may be exposed to the front of the casing (10) while the tray (460, 480) is mounted in the casing (10). Thus, the user can easily detach the tank assembly (420, 430) from the casing (10) by pulling the side of the tray (460, 480) exposed to the front.

[0317] The tray (460, 480) can be detachably coupled to the supporter (490). Specifically, the tray (460, 480) may further include a support coupling part (463) that is coupled to the tray coupling part (491) of the supporter (490). The support coupling part (463) may be a groove into which the tray coupling part (491) is inserted and which has elasticity.

[0318] The tray (460, 480) may include a tank housing (480) that accommodates and supports the tank (430), and a water collection unit (460) that is combined with the tank housing (480) to collect condensate and has a width that is extended beyond that of the tank housing (480).

[0319] Therefore, when the user separates only the tray (460, 480) from the supporter (490), water can be filled into the tank (430), the oil vapor removal unit (420) can be cleaned, and the condensate can be emptied.

[0320] The tank housing (480) is housed in the coupling housing (450). The tank housing (480) has a bottom surface and a side extending upward from the edge of the bottom surface, and the top surface can be open. The tank (430) can be moved in and out through the top of the tank housing (480).

[0321] The water collection unit (460) is attached to the front of the tank housing (480). The water collection unit (460) may have a left-right length corresponding to the left-right length of the supporter (490). The water collection unit (460) can collect condensate generated in the casing (10). Specifically, the water collection unit (460) receives condensate through an opening formed in the base plate (111).

[0322] The water collection unit (460) is located on the lower side of the front portion of the base plate (111) and is mounted so as to be detachable from the front of the supporter (490).

[0323] The water collection unit (460) may be formed in the shape of a cuboid with an overall length in the horizontal direction. It is preferable that the front surface of the water collection unit (460) be located on the same plane as the front surface of the door (20) while the door (20) shields the internal space of the cavity (30). Support joints (463) may be located at both left and right ends of the water collection unit (460).

[0324]

[0325] The structure of the tank assembly (420, 430) is described in detail below.

[0326] FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of the tank assembly (420, 430) shown in FIG. 18, FIG. 23a is a perspective view of the filter cover (423) shown in FIG. 22, FIG. 23b is a perspective view of the filter cover (423) shown in FIG. 23a viewed from below, and FIG. 23c is a perspective view of the tank (430) shown in FIG. 22.

[0327] Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, the tank assembly (420, 430) may include a tank (430) for storing steam water and a vapor removal unit (420).

[0328] The tank (430) stores steam water supplied to the heating chamber (411). The tank (430) forms an internal space of a certain size, and the steam water is received and stored in the internal space. This tank (430) is formed in the shape of a flat cuboid having an internal space of a certain size, and is configured so that the upper surface is selectively opened to allow cleaning of the internal space.

[0329] Specifically, the tank (430) may include a water tank body (434) that forms a space for accommodating water inside and has an open top, and a water tank cover (432) that covers the top of the water tank body (434). The water tank cover (432) may have an injection port (not shown) for injecting water and may include a water tank cap (439) that blocks the injection port. Since the injection port is formed in the water tank cover (432), water can be injected easily by the user.

[0330] The tank (430) may further include a water supply pipe (431) through which water inside the tank (430) is discharged. The water supply pipe (431) may be detachably connected to a water supply connector (453). Specifically, the water supply pipe (431) may be formed in a water tank cover (432).

[0331] The water supply pipe (431) has a length that allows it to be exposed to the rear of the tank (430) while the tank cover (432) is combined with the tank body (434). The water supply pipe (431) may protrude from the tank cover (432) and extend in a direction parallel to the tank cover (432). The water supply pipe (431) may protrude to the rear from the tank cover (432). A portion of the water supply pipe (431) may be positioned so as not to overlap with the tank (430) in a vertical direction while the tank body (434) and the tank cover (432) are combined.

[0332] The oil vapor removal unit (420) filters oil vapor from the gas discharged from the discharge unit (114). The oil vapor removal unit (420) removes at least some of the oil vapor from the gas discharged from the discharge unit (114).

[0333] The vapor removal unit (420) can be coupled to the tank (430). As another example, the vapor removal unit (420) can be formed such that a part is formed in the tank (430) and another part is coupled to the tank (430).

[0334] Specifically, the oil vapor removal unit (420) may include a filter chamber (435) in which one side of the tank (430) is recessed to define an oil vapor removal space, and a filter cover (423) that is detachably installed in the filter chamber (435) to cover the filter chamber (435) and includes a partition wall (426) that reduces the speed and temperature of the gas flowing through the oil vapor removal space.

[0335] The filter chamber (435) may be formed by the upper surface of the water tank cover (432) of the tank (430) being recessed downward. The filter chamber (435) may be a cuboid structure with an open top. The filter chamber (435) may further include a support rib (434) that supports the water tank cover (432). The support rib (434) may protrude from the lower surface or side of the filter chamber (435).

[0336] The filter cover (423) may have a size and shape corresponding to the opening of the filter chamber (435). The filter cover (423) may be in the shape of a rectangular plate. The filter cover (423) may be attached to the opening of the filter chamber (435).

[0337] The filter cover (423) may further include a filter flange (425) that surrounds the edge of the filter cover (423) and is spaced outward from the edge of the filter cover (423) toward the center. The filter flange protrudes downward from the lower surface of the filter cover (423). The filter flange can be press-fitted with the inner surface of the filter chamber (435).

[0338] The partition wall (426) can be positioned so that the direction of gas flow is changed between one side and the other side of the oil vapor removal space (433) and the gas flow velocity is reduced. The oil vapor removal space (433) reduces the gas flow velocity and lowers the temperature to condense the oil vapor.

[0339] Specifically, the partition wall (426) may protrude downward from the lower surface of the filter cover (423) and extend in the front-rear or left-right direction. One end of the partition wall (426) may be in contact with the side of the filter chamber (435), and the other end of the partition wall (426) may be spaced apart from the filter chamber (435).

[0340] The oil vapor removal unit (420) may further include a cover inlet pipe (421) installed on the filter cover (423) through which gas flows into the filter chamber (435), and a cover outlet pipe (422) installed on the filter cover (423) through which gas from the filter chamber (435) flows out.

[0341] The cover inlet pipe (421) has a length that allows it to be exposed to the rear of the tank (430) while the filter cover (423) is coupled to the filter chamber (435). The cover inlet pipe (421) may protrude from the filter cover (423) and extend in a direction parallel to the filter cover (423). The inlet (421a) of the cover inlet pipe (421) may be formed by penetrating the filter cover (423).

[0342] The cover outlet pipe (422) has a length that allows it to be exposed to the rear of the tank (430) while the filter cover (423) is coupled to the filter chamber (435). The cover outlet pipe (422) may protrude from the filter cover (423) and extend in a direction parallel to the filter cover (423). The outlet (422a) of the cover outlet pipe (422) may be formed by penetrating the filter cover (423).

[0343] With the filter cover (423) coupled to the filter chamber (435), a portion of the cover inlet pipe (421) and a portion of the cover outlet pipe (422) are positioned so as not to overlap in the vertical direction with the filter chamber (435) and the tank (430). Thus, when the tank (430) is coupled, the cover inlet pipe (421) and the cover outlet pipe (422) can be coupled to the connector.

[0344] The diameter of the cover inlet pipe (421) may be larger than that of the cover outlet pipe (422). Therefore, oil vapor is introduced into the cover inlet pipe (421), preventing the pipe from being blocked by oil vapor.

[0345] The partition wall (426) can be positioned between the outlet (422a) of the cover outlet pipe (422) and the inlet (421a) of the cover inlet pipe (421). Therefore, by removing only the filter cover (423), the partition wall (426), the outlet (422a) of the cover outlet pipe (422), and the inlet (421a) of the cover inlet pipe (421) are exposed together, which has the advantage of allowing the user to clean them all at once.

[0346]

[0347] The structure of the gas sensor (336) is described below.

[0348] FIG. 24a is an exploded perspective view of the gas sensor (336) part shown in FIG. 21, and FIG. 24b is a cross-sectional perspective view of the sensing chamber body shown in FIG. 24a.

[0349] The gas sensor (336) detects the type and concentration of gas discharged from the oil vapor removal unit (420). The gas sensor (336) detects the type and concentration of gas discharged from the gas pump (320).

[0350] The gas sensor (336) can be accommodated in the sensing chambers (332, 333). The gas sensor (336) and the sensing chambers (332, 333) can be collectively referred to as the gas sensor section (330).

[0351] The gas sensor unit (330) may include a gas sensor (336), a sensing chamber (332, 333), a gas inlet unit (331), and a gas outlet unit (334).

[0352] The sensing chamber (332, 333) may be formed as a single unit, but may include a sensing chamber body (333) and a sensing chamber cover (332) for ease of separation and cleaning.

[0353] The sensing chamber body (333) has an opening at the top, defines a sensing space (335) inside, and has a gas outlet (334) formed on one side. The lower surface of the sensing chamber body (333) can be coupled to the upper surface of the supporter (490).

[0354] The sensing chamber body (333) has a lower surface and a structure in which the edges of the lower surface are covered by the sides and the upper surface is removed.

[0355] The sensing space (335) of the sensing chamber body (333) is a space where the gas sensor (336) is located and where the gas sensed by the gas sensor (336) flows.

[0356] The sensing chamber body (333) may further include sensor posts (337a, 337b) that support and fix the gas sensor (336). Two sensor posts (337a, 337b) may be spaced apart from each other and protrude upward from the lower surface of the sensing chamber body (333). The sensor posts (337a, 337b) may have a height that sufficiently separates the gas sensor (336) from the lower surface of the sensing chamber body.

[0357] The sensor posts (337a, 337b) may further include an insertion groove (338) into which a gas sensor (336) is inserted. The insertion groove (338) is a groove in which the upper part of the sensor posts (337a, 337b) is recessed downward.

[0358] The sensing chamber cover (332) covers the opening of the sensing chamber body (333). The lower surface and side surface of the sensing chamber (332, 333) are the sensing chamber body (333), and the upper surface of the sensing chamber (332, 333) is the sensing chamber cover (332).

[0359] The sensing chamber cover (332) may have a plate shape and a surface area larger than the opening of the sensing chamber body (333). The sensing chamber cover (332) may further include a coupling portion (336) that is inserted into the opening of the sensing chamber body (333). The coupling portion (336) protrudes downward from the bottom of the sensing chamber cover (332) and may be press-fitted with the inner surface of the sensing chamber body (333).

[0360] Additionally, a sealing material (338) that contacts the sensing chamber body (333) and the coupling part (336) and seals the space between them may be positioned between the sensing chamber body (333) and the coupling part (336).

[0361] If the gas sensor (336) needs to be repaired or replaced, only the sensing chamber cover (332) can be removed to repair or replace the gas sensor (336).

[0362] The gas inlet (331) introduces gas discharged from the vapor removal unit (420) into the interior of the sensing chamber (332, 333). The gas inlet (331) can be connected to the outlet pipe (321) of the pump. The gas inlet (331) can be formed on one side of the sensing chamber body (333).

[0363] The gas outlet (334) discharges gas from within the sensing chamber (332, 333). The gas outlet (334) may be formed on the other side facing one side of the sensing chamber body (333). The gas outlet (334) may include a plurality of holes formed on the other side of the sensing chamber body (333).

[0364] If the gas outlet (334) has multiple holes, the flow rate of the gas flowing to the outside of the casing (10) through the gas outlet (334) is slowed down and the pressure is lowered, so the gas is safely discharged to the outside of the cooking device (100).

[0365] A gas sensor (336) is installed in a sensing space (335) and can sense gas flowing through the sensing space (335). The gas sensor (336) detects at least one of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide among the gas flowing through the sensing space (335) and provides this detection information to a control unit. Additionally, the gas sensor (336) can detect at least one of carbon oxide, nitrogen oxide, and hydrogen oxide. Additionally, the gas sensor (336) can detect at least one of benzaldehyde (P1), nonanal (P2), 2-decal (P3), and 2-undecanal (P4).

[0366] The gas sensor (336) can be mounted on or inserted into the sensor posts (337a, 337b). Specifically, the gas sensor (336) can be inserted into the insertion groove (338) of the sensor posts (337a, 337b).

[0367] Additionally, the gas sensor (336) may include a sensor groove (336a). A portion of the sensor posts (337a, 337b) that form the edge of the insertion groove (338) may be inserted into the sensor groove (336a).

[0368] Accordingly, the gas sensor (336) can be stably coupled to the sensor posts (337a, 337b) due to the double groove structure. The gas sensor (336) can be positioned between the gas inlet (331) and the gas outlet (334).

[0369]

[0370] Hereinafter, a cooking device (100') according to another embodiment is described.

[0371] FIG. 25a is a perspective view of a cooking device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 25b is a perspective view showing the tank assembly (420', 430') separated from the cooking device shown in FIG. 25a.

[0372] Referring to FIG. 25, the cooking device (100) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure (seventh embodiment) has a difference in the arrangement of the tank assemblies (420', 430') compared to the sixth embodiment.

[0373] Hereinafter, the seventh embodiment will be described with a focus on the differences from the sixth embodiment, and configurations not specifically described will be considered similar to the sixth embodiment.

[0374] The tank assembly (420', 430') can be detachably mounted in the external space of the cavity (30).

[0375] Specifically, the tank assembly (420', 430') can be detachably mounted to the front of the casing (10). That is, the tank assembly (420', 430') can move forward from the casing (10) to be separated from the casing (10), and move backward to be coupled to the casing (10).

[0376] The tank assembly (420', 430') can be located in the space between the casing (10) and the cavity (30).

[0377] For example, the tank assembly (420', 430') can be positioned above the cavity (30). When the tank assembly (420', 430') is positioned above the cavity (30), it has the advantage of being able to supply steam water and remove oil vapor without affecting the size of the cavity (30), and is shielded by a door.

[0378] Specifically, the tank assembly (420', 430') is detachably installed on the front of the cavity (30). More specifically, the tank assembly (420', 430') can be installed in a mounting space (31a) formed in the front panel (31).

[0379] The aforementioned coupling housing (450) and connector may be installed in the mounting space (31a). In this case, the gas pump (320), water supply pump (610), and gas sensor (336) may be located between the upper surface of the cavity (30) and the casing (10), or may be installed inside the supporter (490) as described above.

[0380] In the seventh embodiment, the tray (460, 480) may be omitted compared to the sixth embodiment. Therefore, there is an advantage of reduced manufacturing costs.

[0381]

[0382] FIG. 26 is a block diagram illustrating the control configuration of a cooking device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0383] Referring to FIG. 26, the cooking device (1) may include an image module (90), a weight sensor (150), a gas sensor (336), a temperature sensor (6), a communication module (7), and a control unit (130).

[0384] The image module (90) converts incident light into an electrical image signal. The image module (90) may include a camera. The camera may include at least one lens, a lens driver, and an image sensor. The image module (90) may be positioned to photograph the interior of the cooking chamber as described above.

[0385] The image module (90) generates captured image data and outputs it to the control unit (130). The control unit (130) controls the shooting operation of the image module (90) according to the operation mode. According to one embodiment, the control unit (130) controls the image module (90) to shoot the inside of the cooking chamber while the cooking device is performing a cooking operation. The control unit (130) initiates a cooking operation based on user input requesting the start of cooking, and can start shooting with the image module (90) in response to the cooking start request.

[0386] The captured image includes still images or video. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the captured image may correspond to a real-time video of the interior of the kitchen during the performance of a cooking operation. Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the captured image may correspond to a still image of the interior of the kitchen at predetermined time intervals during the performance of a cooking operation. Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the captured image may correspond to a still image or video of the interior of the kitchen based on user input.

[0387] The captured image captured by the image module (90) may be a compressed image in a format such as H.264 or JPEG. If the captured image is a compressed image, the control unit (130) generates a captured image in a format such as YUV or RGB through a decoding process.

[0388] The weight sensor (150) detects the weight of the food located in the cooking chamber (32) and provides the weight information of the food to the control unit (130).

[0389] The gas sensor (336) detects gas generated in the cooking room (32) and provides gas information to the control unit (130).

[0390] The temperature sensor (6) measures the internal temperature of the food being cooked and provides temperature information to the control unit (130). The temperature sensor (6) measures the internal temperature of the food being cooked using a probe for temperature detection. The temperature sensor (6) can be connected to the control unit (130) via a wireless communication method.

[0391] The communication module (7) can communicate wirelessly with the temperature sensor (6) using short-range wireless communication. For example, the communication module (7) can communicate with the probe (110) using Bluetooth, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), Near Field Communication, WLAN (Wi-Fi), Zigbee, infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct), UWB (ultrawideband), Ant+ communication, etc.

[0392] Additionally, the communication module (7) can communicate with external devices such as a server, mobile device, or user device via wired or wireless means. The communication module (7) can connect to an Access Point (AP) device to transmit and receive Wi-Fi signals. The control unit (130) can control the transmission and reception operation of the communication module (7).

[0393] The communication module (7) may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a LAN (local area network) communication module, or a power line communication module). Additionally, the communication module (7) may perform short-range communication and may use, for example, Bluetooth, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), Near Field Communication, WLAN (Wi-Fi), Zigbee, infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct), UWB (ultrawideband), Ant+ communication, etc. Additionally, for example, the communication module (7) may perform long-range communication and may communicate with an external device through, for example, a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN).

[0394] The control unit (130) controls the overall operation of the cooking appliance (1). For example, the control unit (130) may include a processor (not shown). The processor may be implemented as one or more processors. The processor may perform a predetermined operation by executing instructions or commands stored in memory. Additionally, the processor controls the operation of components provided in the cooking appliance. The control unit (130) may include at least one of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or a Neural Processing Unit (NPU), or a combination thereof.

[0395] The control unit (130) may include a memory (not shown) for storing information. The memory stores various information, data, commands, programs, etc., necessary for the operation of the cooking device (1). The memory may include at least one of volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof. The memory may include at least one type of storage medium among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), RAM (Random Access Memory), SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Additionally, the memory may correspond to a web storage or cloud server that performs storage functions over the internet.

[0396]

[0397] The control unit (130) can determine the type of food item from the image (captured image) of the food item obtained from the image module (90) and control the heating unit according to the cooking method corresponding to the type of food item. The heating unit may include at least one of a light heater (40), a microwave assembly (70), a lower heater (50), a steam supply unit (4), and a convection module (60).

[0398] Therefore, the cooking device (1) determines the type of food itself and automatically cooks it using an appropriate cooking method.

[0399] Additionally, the control unit (130) can determine the type of food from the image of the food obtained from the image sensor (91), determine the weight of the food, and control the heating unit corresponding to the type of food and the weight of the food.

[0400] Accordingly, the cooking device (1) determines the type and weight of the food to be cooked and automatically cooks it using an appropriate cooking method.

[0401] For example, the control unit (130) can execute a cooking operation based on the image provided by the image module (90) and the weight of the food provided by the weight sensor (150). Specifically, the control unit (130) analyzes the image of the cooking chamber to determine the type of food and executes a cooking operation corresponding to the type of food. If the control unit (130) determines that the food is a food based on quantity, it can analyze the image of the cooking chamber to calculate the quantity of the food and execute a cooking operation based on the quantity of the food.

[0402] Here, quantity-based dishes refer to dishes where the cooking time and method are related to the quantity of the dish. For example, quantity-based dishes may include bread and a dough mass consisting of grain flour and water. In the case of such quantity-based dishes, since the user provides the dough with a pre-specified volume, the weight and volume are nearly identical, so cooking based on quantity results in accurate cooking.

[0403] The control unit (130) can analyze the image of the food items and compare the shape of each food item, the spacing between them, the number of food items, etc., with the stored image to determine the type and quantity of the food items.

[0404] When the control unit (130) determines that the food is a food based on quantity, it analyzes the image of the cooking chamber to calculate the quantity of the food and executes a cooking operation based on the quantity of the food. In the case of a food based on quantity, the control unit (130) determines the operating time of at least one of the light heater (40), microwave assembly (70), lower heater (50), steam supply unit (4), and convection module (60) according to the type of food and the built-in table according to the type of food.

[0405] Specifically, the control unit (130) sets the cooking time to 4 minutes and 50 seconds when the quantity-based cooking item is 2 toasts, and turns on the lower heater (50) and the convection module (60) for the set cooking time. The control unit (130) can control the lower heater (50) and the convection module (60) to cook when the quantity-based cooking item is 2 toasts.

[0406] Meanwhile, if the control unit (130) determines that the food is a food based on weight, it can calculate the weight of the food using a weight sensor (150) and execute a cooking operation based on the weight of the food.

[0407] Here, weight-based dishes refer to dishes where the cooking time and method are related to the weight of the dish. For example, weight-based dishes may include meat. In the case of such weight-based dishes, since the cooking time for the interior varies depending on the weight, cooking based on weight ensures accurate cooking.

[0408] When the control unit (130) determines that the food is a food based on weight, it calculates the weight of the food using a weight sensor (150) and executes a cooking operation based on the weight of the food. In the case of a food based on weight, the control unit (130) determines the operating time of at least one of the light heater (40), microwave assembly (70), bottom heater (50), steam supply unit (4), and convection module (60) according to the type of food and the built-in table based on the type and weight of the food.

[0409] Specifically, the control unit (130) can set the cooking time to 25 minutes for a weight-based food item, when the food item weighs 1.2 kg, and the first step involves operating the lower heater (50), light heater (40), and convection module (60) for a first time (20 minutes), and the second step involves operating the lower heater (50), light heater (40), steam supply unit (4), and convection module (60) for a second time (5 minutes) after the first step. The control unit (130) can control the lower heater (50), light heater (40), steam supply unit (4), and convection module (60) to cook the food item.

[0410]

[0411] The control unit (130) can determine the completion of cooking of the food based on information input through the sensor.

[0412] For example, the control unit (130) can determine whether cooking is complete based on changes in the surface image of the food. When the control unit (130) determines that the food is a food based on quantity, it can analyze the image of the cooking chamber to calculate the quantity of the food, execute a cooking operation based on the quantity of the food, and determine whether cooking is complete based on changes in the surface image of the food.

[0413] Specifically, the control unit (130) may determine that cooking is complete when the saturation value of a specific part of the surface image of the food is lower than a reference saturation value. Alternatively, the control unit (130) may determine that cooking is complete when the saturation value of a specific part of the surface image of the food is lower than a preset value compared to the saturation value at the start of cooking the food.

[0414] As another example, the control unit (130) may determine that cooking is complete when the brightness value of a specific part of the surface image of the food is lower than a reference brightness value. Alternatively, the control unit (130) may determine that cooking is complete when the brightness value of a specific part of the surface image of the food is lower than a preset value compared to the brightness value at the start of cooking the food.

[0415] As another example, the control unit (130) can determine that cooking is complete if, in the surface image of the food, the area exceeding the reference area in the entire area of ​​the food is lower than the reference brightness value or is similar to the reference color.

[0416] As another example, the control unit (130) can determine whether cooking is complete based on the change in weight of the food. Specifically, the control unit (130) can determine that cooking is complete when the weight of the food becomes less than or equal to a preset ratio compared to the weight of the food at the start of cooking.

[0417] Additionally, the control unit (130) can determine whether the cooking of the food is complete based on gas information provided by the gas sensor (336). Specifically, the control unit (130) can determine that the cooking is complete if the gas contains a preset component in excess of a preset concentration. More specifically, in the case of a food based on quantity, the control unit (130) can determine that the cooking is complete if the gas contains ethanol in excess of a preset ratio. Additionally, in the case of a food based on weight, the control unit (130) can determine that the cooking is complete if the gas contains carbon monoxide in excess of a preset ratio.

[0418] As another example, the control unit (130) can determine that cooking is complete when the gas contains more than a preset ratio of ethanol or carbon monoxide.

[0419] As another example, the control unit (130) can determine whether cooking is complete based on the internal temperature of the food. Specifically, if the food is determined to be a food based on weight, the control unit (130) can calculate the weight of the food using a weight sensor (150), execute a cooking operation based on the weight of the food, and determine whether cooking is complete based on the internal temperature of the food. More specifically, if the food is determined to be a whole chicken, the control unit (130) can determine that cooking is complete when the internal temperature reaches 85 degrees; if the food is determined to be a steak, it can determine that cooking is complete when the internal temperature reaches 63 to 77 degrees; and if the food is determined to be a whole pork belly, it can determine that cooking is complete when the internal temperature reaches 77 degrees. If the food is determined to be a food based on weight, the control unit (130) can determine that cooking is complete when the internal temperature reaches 77 degrees.

[0420] As another example, the control unit (130) can determine whether cooking is complete based on at least one of the change in the surface image of the food, the internal temperature of the food, and the gas emitted from the cooking chamber. Here, the criteria for determining whether cooking is complete based on the change in the surface image of the food, the internal temperature of the food, and the gas emitted from the cooking chamber are as described above.

[0421] As another example, the control unit (130) can determine whether cooking is complete if at least two of the following conditions are satisfied.

[0422] <Condition>

[0423] Condition 1 - The saturation value of a specific part of the surface image of the cooked object is lower than the reference saturation value

[0424] Condition 2 - The internal temperature of the food exceeds the target temperature value

[0425] Condition 3 - The gas contains a preset component in excess of the preset concentration.

[0426]

[0427] The control unit (130) may stop the cooking operation when it determines that cooking is complete. Here, stopping the cooking operation means turning off the heating unit that is in the ON state.

[0428] When the control unit (130) determines that cooking is complete, it can transmit cooking completion information as information that the user can recognize.

[0429] Specifically, the control unit (130) can control the display unit (81) to display cooking completion information and can transmit cooking completion information to a server, a mobile device, and a user device.

[0430]

[0431] FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a cooking appliance (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0432] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 27, a method for controlling a cooking device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0433] A control method for a cooking device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes the step of acquiring an image of the cooking chamber of the cooking device (S10), the step of determining the type of food inside the cooking chamber based on the image (S30), the step of detecting the weight of the food (S52), and the step of executing a cooking operation based on the image of the cooking chamber and the weight of the food (S41~S43, S51, S53).

[0434] In addition, a control method for a cooking device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a step (S100) of determining whether cooking is complete based on at least one of an image of the cooking chamber, the weight of the food being cooked, the internal temperature of the food being cooked, and gas discharged from the cooking chamber.

[0435] Here, the steps can be changed in order.

[0436] In the step of acquiring an image of the cooking room (S10), the control unit (130) controls the image module (90) to acquire an image of the cooking room. The control unit (130) can recognize the location of the food by analyzing the image of the cooking room (S20).

[0437] In the step (S30) of determining the type of food inside the cooking room, the control unit (130) can determine the type of food by analyzing the image.

[0438] In the step of executing a cooking operation based on the image of the cooking chamber and the weight of the food (S41~S43, S51, S53), the control unit (130) can determine whether the food is a quantity-based food (S41). If the control unit (130) determines that the food is a quantity-based food, it analyzes the image of the cooking chamber to calculate the quantity of the food (S42) and executes a cooking operation based on the quantity of the food (S43). Specifically, in the case of a quantity-based food, the control unit (130) determines the operating time of at least one of the light heater (40), microwave assembly (70), lower heater (50), steam supply unit (4), and convection module (60) according to the type of food and the built-in table according to the type of food.

[0439] The control unit (130) determines whether the food is a food based on weight when the food is not a food based on quantity (S51). When the food is determined to be a food based on weight, the control unit (130) controls the weight sensor (150) to obtain the weight value of the food (S53) and executes a cooking operation based on the weight of the food (S53). In the case of a food based on weight, the control unit (130) determines the operating time of at least one of the light heater (40), microwave assembly (70), lower heater (50), steam supply unit (4), and convection module (60) according to the type of food and the built-in table based on the type and weight of the food.

[0440] Additionally, in the step (S100) of determining whether cooking is complete, the control unit (130) may determine whether cooking is complete based on at least one of the image of the cooking chamber, the weight of the food being cooked, the internal temperature of the food being cooked, and the gas discharged from the cooking chamber. A method for determining whether cooking is complete is described later in FIGS. 28 to 30.

[0441] The control unit (130) performs an additional cooking operation when it determines that the food is not in a cooked state (S60).

[0442] The control unit (130) stops the cooking operation when it determines that the food is in a cooked state (S70).

[0443] The control unit (130) performs an operation to indicate the completion of cooking when it determines that the food is in a state of being cooked (S80). Specifically, the control unit (130) can control the display unit (81) to display cooking completion information and can transmit cooking completion information to a server, a mobile device, and a user device.

[0444]

[0445] Below, a method (S100) for determining the completion of cooking is described in detail.

[0446] FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a cooking device (1) that determines the completion of cooking of FIG. 27.

[0447] Referring to FIG. 28, the control unit (130) controls the image module (90) to acquire a surface image of the food (S110).

[0448] The control unit (130) can determine the completion of cooking based on the change value of the surface image of the food being cooked (S120).

[0449] The control unit (130) can determine that cooking is complete and stop the cooking operation when the change value of the surface image of the food being cooked is greater than the reference change value (S70). Here, the change value of the surface image of the food being cooked may include at least one of saturation, brightness, and color.

[0450] When the change value of the surface image of the food is smaller than the reference change value, the control unit (130) controls the temperature sensor (6) to obtain the internal temperature value of the food (S130).

[0451] The control unit (130) determines that cooking is complete based on the internal temperature value of the food when the change value of the surface image of the food is smaller than the reference change value (S140).

[0452] The control unit (130) determines that cooking is complete when the internal temperature value of the food being cooked is greater than the target temperature value and stops the cooking operation (S70).

[0453] The control unit (130) controls the gas sensor (336) to detect gas when the internal temperature value of the food being cooked is lower than the target temperature value ( (S150).

[0454] The control unit (130) determines that cooking is complete based on the gas composition of the food when the internal temperature value of the food is lower than the target temperature value (S160).

[0455] The control unit (130) stops the cooking operation when the gas component of the food being cooked contains a preset component at a ratio greater than or equal to the preset ratio (S70).

[0456] The control unit (130) performs an additional cooking operation (S60) when the gas component of the food being cooked contains less than the preset ratio of the preset component.

[0457]

[0458] FIG. 29 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a cooking appliance (S100') according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0459] The control method of FIG. 29 differs from the control method of FIG. 28 in the sequence and conditions of the cooking completion determination method (S100'). Below, the differences from FIG. 28 will be explained in detail, and parts without special explanation and the configuration of the same reference numerals will be considered identical.

[0460] In the case of a control method of another embodiment, if all of the following conditions are satisfied, it can be determined whether cooking is complete.

[0461] <Condition>

[0462] Condition 1 - The saturation value of a specific part of the surface image of the cooked object is lower than the reference saturation value

[0463] Condition 2 - The internal temperature of the food exceeds the target temperature value

[0464] Condition 3 - The gas contains a preset component in excess of the preset concentration.

[0465]

[0466] First, the control unit (130) controls the image module (90) to obtain a surface image of the food (S110).

[0467] The control unit (130) can determine the completion of cooking based on the change value of the surface image of the food being cooked (S120).

[0468] When the change value of the surface image of the food is greater than the reference change value, the control unit (130) controls the temperature sensor (6) to obtain the internal temperature value of the food (S130).

[0469] The control unit (130) performs an additional cooking operation when the change value of the surface image of the food being cooked is smaller than the reference change value (S60).

[0470] The control unit (130) determines that cooking is complete based on the internal temperature value of the food when the change value of the surface image of the food is greater than the reference change value (S140).

[0471] The control unit (130) performs an additional cooking operation (S60) when the internal temperature value of the food being cooked is lower than the target temperature value.

[0472] The control unit (130) controls the gas sensor (336) to detect gas when the internal temperature value of the food being cooked is greater than the target temperature value ( (S150).

[0473] The control unit (130) determines that cooking is complete based on the gas composition of the food when the internal temperature value of the food is lower than the target temperature value (S160).

[0474] The control unit (130) stops the cooking operation when the gas component of the food being cooked contains a preset component at a ratio greater than or equal to the preset ratio (S70).

[0475] The control unit (130) performs an additional cooking operation (S60) when the gas component of the food being cooked contains less than the preset ratio of the preset component.

[0476] The steps described above may be interchanged in order.

[0477]

[0478] FIG. 30 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a cooking appliance (S100'') according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0479] The control method of Fig. 23 differs from the control method of Fig. 28 in the sequence and conditions of the cooking completion determination method (S100''). Below, the differences from Fig. 28 will be explained in detail, and parts without special explanation and the configuration of the same reference numerals will be considered identical.

[0480] In the case of a control method of another embodiment, if at least two of the following conditions are satisfied, it can be determined whether cooking is complete.

[0481] <Condition>

[0482] Condition 1 - The saturation value of a specific part of the surface image of the cooked object is lower than the reference saturation value

[0483] Condition 2 - The internal temperature of the food exceeds the target temperature value

[0484] Condition 3 - The gas contains a preset component in excess of the preset concentration.

[0485]

[0486] First, the control unit (130) controls the image module (90) to obtain a surface image of the food (S110).

[0487] The control unit (130) controls the temperature sensor (6) to obtain the internal temperature value of the food being cooked (S130).

[0488] The control unit (130) controls the gas sensor (336) to detect gas ( (S150).

[0489] The control unit (130) determines the completion of cooking based on conditions 1 to 3 (S170).

[0490] The control unit (130) determines that cooking is complete and stops the cooking operation when at least two of conditions 1 to 3 are satisfied (S70).

[0491] The control unit (130) performs an additional cooking operation (S60) if at least two of conditions 1 to 3 are not satisfied.

[0492] The steps described above may be interchanged in order.

[0493]

[0494] Although preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Various modifications are possible by those skilled in the art without departing from the essence of the present disclosure as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical spirit or perspective of the present disclosure.

[0495] The present disclosure may be modified and implemented in various forms, and its scope of rights is not limited to the embodiments described above. Therefore, if a modified embodiment includes the components of the claims of the present disclosure, it should be considered to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0496] Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not exclusive or distinct from one another. Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be used in combination or combined for their respective configurations or functions.

[0497] For example, this means that configuration A described in a specific embodiment and / or drawing and configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing can be combined. That is, it means that even if the combination between configurations is not directly described, combination is possible except in cases where it is described that combination is impossible.

[0498] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in all respects and should be considered exemplary. The scope of the present disclosure shall be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present disclosure are included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A cavity forming a cooking chamber inside; A heating unit that provides heat to the above cooking chamber; An image module for acquiring an image of the above-mentioned kitchen; A weight sensor for detecting the weight of a food item located in the above-mentioned cooking chamber; and It includes a control unit that executes a cooking operation based on an image provided by the image module and the weight of the food provided by the weight sensor, and The above control unit is, A cooking device that analyzes an image of the cooking chamber to determine the type of food to be cooked and executes a cooking operation corresponding to the type of food to be cooked.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above control unit is, A cooking device that, when the above-mentioned food is determined to be a food based on quantity, analyzes an image of the cooking chamber to calculate the quantity of the above-mentioned food and performs a cooking operation based on the quantity of the above-mentioned food.

3. In Paragraph 1 or 2, The above control unit is, A cooking device that, when the above-mentioned food is determined to be a food based on weight, calculates the weight of the food using the weight sensor and performs a cooking operation based on the weight of the food.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above control unit is, A cooking device that determines whether cooking is complete based on changes in the surface image of the above-mentioned food.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above control unit is, A cooking device that, when the above-mentioned food is determined to be a food based on quantity, analyzes an image of the cooking chamber to calculate the quantity of the food, executes a cooking operation based on the quantity of the food, and determines whether cooking is complete based on a change in the surface image of the food.

6. In Paragraph 4 or 5, The above control unit is, A cooking device that determines that cooking is complete when the saturation value of a specific part of the surface image of the above-mentioned food is lower than a reference saturation value.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above control unit is, A cooking device that determines whether cooking is complete based on the change in weight of the above-mentioned food.

8. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a gas sensor that detects gas emitted from the above-mentioned cooking chamber, and The above control unit is, A cooking device that determines that cooking is complete when the above gas contains a preset component in an amount exceeding a preset concentration.

9. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a temperature sensor for measuring the internal temperature of the above-mentioned food, and The control unit is, A cooking device that determines whether cooking is complete based on the internal temperature of the above-mentioned food.

10. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a temperature sensor for measuring the internal temperature of the above-mentioned food, and The control unit is, A cooking device that, when the above-mentioned food is determined to be a food based on weight, calculates the weight of the food using the weight sensor, executes a cooking operation based on the weight of the food, and determines whether cooking is complete based on the internal temperature of the food.

11. In Paragraph 1, A gas sensor for detecting gas emitted from the above-mentioned cooking chamber; and A cooking device further comprising a temperature sensor for measuring the internal temperature of the above-mentioned food.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above control unit is, A cooking device that determines whether cooking is complete based on at least one of the change in the surface image of the food being cooked, the internal temperature of the food being cooked, and the gas emitted from the cooking chamber.

13. In Paragraph 12, The above control unit is, A cooking appliance that determines whether cooking is complete when at least two of the following conditions are satisfied. <Condition> Condition 1 - The saturation value of a specific part of the surface image of the above-mentioned food is lower than the reference saturation value Condition 2 - The internal temperature value of the above cooked item exceeds the target temperature value Condition 3 - The above gas contains a preset component in excess of a preset concentration 14. A step of acquiring an image of the cooking chamber of the cooking device; A step of determining the type of food inside the cooking chamber based on the above image; A step of detecting the weight of the above-mentioned food; and A cooking device control method comprising the step of executing a cooking operation based on the image of the cooking chamber and the weight of the food to be cooked.

15. In Paragraph 14, A cooking device control method further comprising the step of determining whether cooking is complete based on at least one of the image of the cooking chamber, the weight of the food being cooked, the internal temperature of the food being cooked, and the gas discharged from the cooking chamber.

Images