Cooking apparatus

Abstract

A cooking apparatus is disclosed. The disclosed cooking apparatus draws in air introduced into a component arrangement space through an opening formed in a top plate by means of a fan, and then discharges the air. Here, the fan draws in air in the horizontal direction and discharges air in the horizontal direction. In addition, a filter for purifying air is disposed between the opening and the fan.

Description

Cooking appliances

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a cooking appliance, and more specifically, to a cooking appliance that provides a function of sucking up and removing contaminants generated during the cooking process.

[0002]

[0003] Generally, kitchens are equipped with cooking surfaces fitted with heating appliances such as electric heaters or gas stoves, which are used for heating and cooking food.

[0004] During the heating and cooking process, the food being cooked generates pollutants such as smoke, odors, and oil vapors, which can become airborne due to the heat and spread throughout the entire room. This results in unpleasant odors and, particularly in enclosed kitchen environments, can impair worker concentration and cause health problems.

[0005] Accordingly, a range hood is installed in the kitchen to exhaust contaminants generated during the cooking of food to the outside. The range hood includes a hood body with an intake port formed on its lower surface and a suction fan that generates an airflow to draw air into the hood body and discharge it to the outside. Additionally, the range hood further includes a filter installed in the hood body to filter the air drawn into the body and a pipe that forms a passage to discharge the air drawn into the body through the filter to the outside.

[0006] Contaminants generated during the heating of food on the countertop rise due to their own buoyancy caused by their temperature being higher than the surrounding air, or are forcibly lifted by the airflow formed by the suction fan. The risen contaminants pass through a filter and are discharged into an external duct via piping.

[0007] However, while a range hood can suck up contaminants near the intake port of the hood body to some extent, it is difficult to properly suck up contaminants located far from the intake port. This is because the velocity of the intake airflow decreases inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the intake port as it moves further away. In other words, in conventional range hoods, suction performance deteriorates rapidly as it moves further away from the intake port, and even if the airflow of the intake fan is increased, the efficiency of capturing contaminants is not sufficiently improved.

[0008] However, while it is possible to consider increasing the suction power by increasing the airflow of the suction fan, doubling the airflow increases power consumption by about eight times, which leads to a problem of significantly increased power consumption and noise.

[0009] Therefore, the closer the air intake is positioned to the source of contaminants, the higher the capture effect; to this end, the range hood should be installed so that the intake is located as close as possible to the point where the food is heated. However, optimizing the installation height of the range hood is difficult due to the trade-off between contaminant capture efficiency and cooking efficiency.

[0010] In other words, while pollutant capture efficiency improves as the installation height of the range hood decreases, there is a problem in that only low-height cooking appliances that can be placed on the countertop can be used. Conversely, as the installation height of the range hood increases, tall cooking appliances can be used, but there is a problem in that the distance between the pollutant source and the intake vent increases, leading to a decrease in pollutant capture efficiency.

[0011] The objective of the present invention is to provide a cooking appliance with optimized air intake direction and flow path shape so as to efficiently capture contaminants generated during cooking.

[0012] In addition, another objective of the present invention is to provide a cooking device that improves both suction and purification efficiency by minimizing airflow resistance while stably securing the suction performance of the fan.

[0013] In addition, another objective of the present invention is to provide a cooking device that ensures the stability and reliability of airflow by controlling contaminants generated during cooking to flow consistently along a set path.

[0014] In addition, another objective of the present invention is to provide a cooking appliance that can effectively overcome structural constraints of the cooking appliance while improving air intake and exhaust performance by using a plurality of fans arranged in parallel or stacked.

[0015] The objectives of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other objectives and advantages of the present invention not mentioned may be understood from the following description and will be more clearly understood by the embodiments of the present invention.

[0016]

[0017] A cooking device according to one embodiment of the present invention is characterized by sucking in and discharging air that has flowed into a component placement space through an opening formed in a top plate, wherein the fan sucks in air in a horizontal direction and discharges air in a horizontal direction.

[0018] In addition, a cooking device according to one embodiment of the present invention is characterized by sequentially arranging a first filter and a second filter on the upstream side of the fan's intake port so that the air undergoes a multi-stage purification process before reaching the fan.

[0019] In addition, a cooking device according to one embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that a first filter is formed in a cylindrical shape or a partial cylindrical shape, and a second filter is provided in an annular segment shape, so that air is diffused radially within the first filter and then introduced through the second filter, thereby smoothly and uniformly dispersing the flow of air.

[0020] A cooking device according to one embodiment of the present invention is characterized by simultaneously improving air intake performance and exhaust performance by using a plurality of fans.

[0021] A cooking device according to one embodiment of the present invention is characterized by arranging a plurality of fans in parallel or stacked to secure sufficient airflow even under constraints on the component placement space.

[0022] In addition, a cooking device according to one embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that one side of a second filter is supported by a filter support and the other side is in contact with the inner surface of a flow guide, so that air flows only along the connecting flow path without passing through the gap inside the flow guide.

[0023] A cooking device according to one aspect of the present invention may include a top plate having an opening formed therein that covers a component placement space and opens the component placement space, a fan disposed in the component placement space and provided with an intake port and an exhaust port, and a filter disposed between the opening and the fan. Here, air flowing into the opening and passing through the filter may be sucked in horizontally through the intake port, and air sucked in through the intake port may be discharged horizontally through the exhaust port.

[0024] Additionally, the cooking device may further include a flow path formed in the component placement space. The flow path may include an inlet flow path formed in a vertical direction in communication with the opening, and a connecting flow path that guides the air flowing from the inlet flow path in a horizontal direction, and the intake port of the fan may draw in the air guided to the connecting flow path in a horizontal direction.

[0025] Additionally, the cooking device may include a first filter disposed below the opening and a second filter disposed between the first filter and the fan. The first filter may be disposed on the inlet path, and the second filter may be disposed on the connecting path.

[0026] Additionally, the above cooking device has an opening that has a circular shape, the first filter has a cylindrical or partial cylindrical shape with an open upper surface communicating with the opening, and the second filter may be arranged in the shape of an annular segment to surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the first filter.

[0027] Additionally, the cooking device may further include a first filter receiving portion having a first receiving space for accommodating the first filter, and a second filter receiving portion having a second receiving space for accommodating the second filter and providing a seating space for the first filter receiving portion.

[0028] Additionally, the cooking device may include a second filter inner support member in which the second filter receiving member supports the inner surface of the second filter, and a second filter outer support member in which the second filter outer surface supports the second filter. At least one through hole for air flow may be formed in each of the second filter inner support member and the second filter outer support member, the second receiving space may be formed between the second filter inner support member and the second filter outer support member, and the seating space may be formed on the inner side of the second filter inner support member.

[0029] Additionally, the cooking device may include a first filter support member in which the first filter receiving portion supports the outer surface of the first filter and at least one through hole is formed for air flow. The first receiving space may be formed by the first filter support member, and at least a portion of the first filter support member may be positioned to face the second filter inner support member.

[0030] Additionally, the cooking device may further include a support connecting portion connecting the second filter inner support portion and the second filter outer support portion, and an opposing portion disposed opposite to the second filter inner support portion and extending from the support connecting portion. The second filter inner support portion and the opposing portion may form the seating space, and the support connecting portion and the opposing portion may have a closed shape.

[0031] In addition, the fan of the cooking appliance may be multiple. The multiple fans may be arranged spaced apart from each other on the same virtual axis oriented in the horizontal direction.

[0032] Additionally, the cooking device may further include a filter receiving portion for accommodating the filter, and the plurality of fans may be positioned at the rear of the filter receiving portion.

[0033] Additionally, the cooking device may further include a connecting channel formed in the component placement space. The connecting channel may include a first connecting channel that guides air to some of the plurality of fans and a second connecting channel that guides air to the remaining fans. The first connecting channel may be formed according to a first part of the first filter and a part of the second filter surrounding it, and the second connecting channel may be formed according to a second part of the first filter and the remaining part of the second filter surrounding it.

[0034] Additionally, the cooking device may include a first fan and a second fan positioned further back than the first fan. In this case, the first vertical distance between the top plate and the first fan may be greater than the second vertical distance between the top plate and the second fan.

[0035] Additionally, the cooking device may further include a connecting channel formed in the component placement space. The connecting channel may include a first connecting channel that guides air to one side of the first and second fans, and a second connecting channel that guides air to the other side of the first and second fans. The first connecting channel may be formed according to a first part of the first filter and a part of the second filter surrounding it, and the second connecting channel may be formed according to a second part of the first filter and the remaining part of the second filter surrounding it.

[0036] Additionally, the cooking device may further include a filter receiving portion for accommodating the filter. The upper rear portion of the filter receiving portion may be formed to be spaced rearward relative to the lower rear portion, and at least a portion of the first fan may be disposed in the overlapping area of ​​the rear region of the lower rear portion and the lower region of the upper rear portion, and at least a portion of the first fan may also be disposed in the rear region of the rear portion.

[0037] Additionally, the cooking device may further include a case in which an open upper surface is combined with a top plate. The case may include a partition separating the upper side, where a heating element is placed, from the lower side, where a component placement space is formed. In this case, a protruding area covering the upper part of the second pan may be formed on the upper part of the partition.

[0038] Additionally, the cooking device may further include an exhaust duct that discharges air from each of the first and second fans and supports the second fan.

[0039] Additionally, the cooking device may include a first discharge section having a first discharge port corresponding to the exhaust port of a first fan, a second discharge section having a second discharge port corresponding to the exhaust port of a second fan, and a connecting section connecting the first and second discharge sections. In this case, the second fan may be supported from below by the upper surface of the connecting section.

[0040] In addition, the cooking device may have the first discharge portion connected so as to be inclined downward toward the connecting portion, and the second discharge portion may include a front upper side where a second discharge opening is formed and a front rear side that communicates with the connecting portion.

[0041]

[0042] According to the present invention, air that is filtered after being introduced through an opening provided in a top plate can be drawn in horizontally through the intake port of a fan and discharged horizontally through the exhaust port of a fan. Accordingly, the shape of the airflow path between the filter and the fan can be simplified, and the airflow resistance generated during the airflow switching process can be reduced.

[0043] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by sequentially arranging a first filter and a second filter on the upstream side of the fan's intake port, contaminated air can undergo a multi-stage purification process before entering the fan. Accordingly, the cleanliness of the air entering the fan is enhanced, and the direct attachment of contaminants to the fan's impeller and other components can be prevented. In addition, the efficiency of capturing contaminants can be effectively improved without increasing the fan's intake airflow velocity, and noise can be suppressed.

[0044] In addition, according to the present invention, the first filter may be provided in a cylindrical shape or a partial cylindrical shape, and the second filter disposed in the connecting channel may be formed in an annular segment shape. Accordingly, air diffuses radially within the first filter and then disperses into the second filter, thereby facilitating the smooth flow of air and ensuring uniform collection efficiency.

[0045] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by arranging multiple fans in parallel in the horizontal direction or stacking them in the vertical direction, a larger effective suction area and sufficient airflow can be secured compared to the case where a single fan is used. Accordingly, a large amount of contaminants generated during cooking can be stably captured, and suction and exhaust performance can be improved without excessively increasing the rotational speed of the fans. In addition, since the arrangement of the fans can be selectively applied in both horizontal and stacked structures, constraints on component placement space can be effectively resolved, flexibly adapted to various cooking appliance structures, and simultaneously improved space utilization and design freedom.

[0046] In addition to the effects described above, the specific effects of the present invention are described together with the specific details for implementing the invention below.

[0047]

[0048] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a cooking appliance according to a first embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a cooking appliance according to a first embodiment.

[0050] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a partially exploded perspective view of a cooking device according to the first embodiment.

[0051] FIGS. 4 to 6 are a front perspective view, a front view, and a side view of a cooking appliance according to the first embodiment with some components omitted.

[0052] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a fan included in an exhaust device according to the first embodiment.

[0053] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a filter included in an exhaust device according to the first embodiment.

[0054] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an exploded perspective view of a filter housing included in an exhaust device according to a first embodiment.

[0055] FIGS. 10 and FIGS. 11 are cross-sectional views illustrating fluid flow in a component placement space according to a first embodiment.

[0056] FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating the installation state of a cooking device according to a second embodiment.

[0057] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the cooking appliance of FIG. 12.

[0058] FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of the cooking appliance of FIG. 12.

[0059] Fig. 15 is an exploded perspective view of the cooking appliance of Fig. 12.

[0060] Figure 16 is a planar cross-sectional view of the cooking appliance of Figure 12.

[0061] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the right side of the cooking appliance of FIG. 12.

[0062] FIG. 18 is a front perspective view showing some components of the cooking appliance of FIG. 12 omitted.

[0063] FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating the installation state of a cooking device according to a second embodiment.

[0064] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of a cooking device according to a second embodiment.

[0065] FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of a cooking appliance according to a second embodiment.

[0066] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an exploded perspective view of a cooking device according to a second embodiment.

[0067] FIG. 16 is a planar cross-sectional view of a cooking device according to a second embodiment.

[0068] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the right side of a cooking device according to the second embodiment.

[0069] FIG. 18 is a front perspective view showing some components of a cooking device according to a second embodiment omitted.

[0070] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an exhaust device according to a second embodiment.

[0071] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an exploded perspective view of a filter included in an exhaust device according to a second embodiment.

[0072] FIGS. 21 and FIGS. 22 are perspective views of a filter receiving portion included in an exhaust device according to a second embodiment.

[0073] FIGS. 23 and 24 are perspective views of an exhaust duct included in an exhaust device according to a second embodiment.

[0074] FIGS. 25 and 26 are cross-sectional views illustrating fluid flow in a component placement space according to a second embodiment.

[0075]

[0076] The aforementioned objectives, features, and effects will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. In describing the present invention, detailed descriptions of known technologies related to the present invention are omitted if it is determined that such descriptions may unnecessarily obscure the essence of the invention.

[0077] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc. are used to describe various components, these terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another. Throughout this specification, unless specifically stated otherwise, each component may be singular or plural. Throughout this specification, terms such as "composed of" or "comprising" are not to be interpreted as necessarily including all of the various components or steps described in the specification, but are to be interpreted as potentially including additional components or steps.

[0078] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but may be modified and implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided merely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the present invention should be understood not to be limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the technical spirit and scope of the present invention, as well as substituting or adding the configuration of one embodiment with the configuration of another embodiment. In the drawings, components may be depicted as being exaggeratedly large or small in size or thickness for the sake of convenience of understanding, but the scope of protection of the present invention should not be interpreted restrictively as a result thereof.

[0079] When it is stated that a component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. Conversely, when it is stated that a component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between. When it is stated that a component is "above" or "below" another component, it should be understood that it is not only positioned directly above that other component but that other components may also exist in between.

[0080] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and should not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in this specification.

[0081] Throughout the specification, "up-and-down direction" or "vertical direction" refers to the up-and-down direction of a cooking appliance when it is installed for daily use. The up-and-down direction or vertical direction has the same meaning as the vertical direction. "Left-right direction" refers to a direction orthogonal to the up-and-down direction, and "front-back direction" refers to a direction orthogonal to both the up-and-down direction and the left-and-right direction. "Both-sided direction" or "side direction" has the same meaning as the left-and-right direction. "Horizontal direction" encompasses the left-and-right direction and the front-back direction, and has the same meaning as the "horizontal direction." These terms may be used interchangeably in this specification.

[0082]

[0083] [Overall structure of the cooking device according to the first embodiment]

[0084] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a cooking appliance (1) according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a cooking appliance (1) according to a first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a partially exploded perspective view of a cooking appliance (1) according to a first embodiment.

[0085] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the cooking device (1) may be implemented as a separate device that is placed on a countertop. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the cooking device (1) may be implemented in a form installed inside the countertop. In this case, the top plate (10) may be exposed to the upper side of the countertop, and the remaining part of the cooking device (1) may be accommodated inside the countertop.

[0086] In this embodiment, a cooking appliance in the form of an electric range is exemplified. Here, the term "electric range" encompasses both electric resistance ranges and induction heating ranges. For convenience of explanation, embodiments of the present invention will be described focusing on an electric range equipped with a working coil as a heating element. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0087] The cooking device (1) may include a top plate (10), a case (20), at least one heating unit (30), an electrical unit (not shown), and an exhaust device.

[0088] The top plate (10) can be placed on the upper part of the heating device to form the upper surface of the cooking device (1). The top plate (10) can accommodate a body to be heated. For example, the top plate (10) can be made of ceramic glass and can be formed into a flat plate shape with thickness.

[0089] The case (20) can perform the function of protecting various parts constituting the cooking device (1). The open top surface of the case (20) can be detachably connected to the top plate (10).

[0090] The case (20) may include an upper case (21) and a lower case (22).

[0091] The upper case (21) can form the overall exterior of the case (20). A partition (211) may be formed in the upper case (21) in a horizontal direction, and the upper case (21) may be divided into an upper side and a lower side according to the formed partition (211). A working coil corresponding to the heating unit (30) may be accommodated in the upper side of the upper case (21), and a component placement space (S) may be provided in the lower side of the upper case (21), and an electrical unit and an exhaust device may be accommodated in the component placement space (S).

[0092] The lower case (22) can be combined with the lower surface of the open upper case (21). By combining the upper case (21) and the lower case (22), a component placement space (S) can be provided. The component placement space (S) can be formed by the lower side of the upper case (21) and the lower case (22), and an exhaust device can be installed on the lower case (22).

[0093] The heating unit (30) can heat the object to be heated. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the heating unit (30) may include a working coil positioned on the lower side of the top plate (10). In another example, the heating unit (30) may include a hot plate that heats the metal plate itself by placing an electric heating wire on the lower side of the metal plate. In yet another example, the heating unit (30) may include a highlight that directly heats the top plate (10) using an infrared radiating ceramic heater. In yet another example, the heating unit (30) may include two or more of the working coil, the hot plate, and the highlight.

[0094] The electrical unit can accommodate electrical components related to the operation of the heating unit (30). The electrical unit may be placed in a specific part of the component placement space (S) where the exhaust device is not placed. The electrical unit may include an electrical case that accommodates various electrical components. The top plate (10) and the electrical unit may constitute a heating device.

[0095] For example, at least one of the case (20) and the electrical case may be formed in the shape of a square box made of aluminum, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Additionally, at least one of the case (20) and the electrical case may be insulated to prevent the temperature of the outer surface from rising due to heat generated by the heating unit (30) or heat generated by the electrical components.

[0096] An opening (12, 212) may be formed in each of the top plate (10) and the bulkhead (211) of the upper case (21). The opening (12, 212) may be formed in the shape of a hole penetrating each of the top plate (10) and the bulkhead (211) in the vertical direction, and may form a passage to open a component placement space (S) to the upper side of the top plate (10).

[0097] According to the present embodiment, the opening (12, 212) may be circular in shape and may be formed in the central area of ​​each of the top plate (10) and the partition (211) of the upper case (21).

[0098] A through hole (215) may be formed on the rear surface of the upper case (21), and the side wall (23) may be combined with the upper case (21) to cover the through hole (215). An exhaust port (231) may be formed in the side wall (23) to discharge air that has flowed into the component placement space (S) through the opening (12, 212).

[0099] The exhaust device can collect contaminated air generated when heating a body to be heated and discharge it to an external space of the cooking device (1). The exhaust device may include a fan (40), a filter (50), and a filter housing (60).

[0100] According to the present embodiment, a plurality of fans (40) may be used to more smoothly draw in contaminated air and ensure sufficient exhaust performance. The plurality of fans (40) may be positioned at the rear of the component placement space (S) relative to the opening (12). Additionally, each of the plurality of fans (40) may have its central axis positioned horizontally.

[0101] In particular, multiple fans (40) can be spaced apart from each other and arranged parallel to each other at the rear side of the component placement space (S). That is, multiple fans (40) can be arranged horizontally at the rear side of the component placement space (S).

[0102] The structure of the exhaust system is explained in more detail below.

[0103]

[0104] [Overall structure of the exhaust device according to the first embodiment]

[0105] FIGS. 4 to 6 are a front perspective view, a front view, and a side view of a cooking device (1) according to a first embodiment with some components omitted. Here, some components correspond to a top plate (10) and an upper case (21).

[0106] Hereinafter, the internal structure of the exhaust device will be explained with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6.

[0107] The exhaust device may include a fan (40), a filter (50), and a filter housing (60).

[0108] The fan (40) can be placed in the component placement space (S), and in particular, can be placed at the rear side of the component placement space (S) based on the opening (12) of the top plate (10). The fan (40) can suck in contaminated air, which is air on the upper side of the top plate (10), through the opening (12) of the top plate (10).

[0109] There may be multiple fans (40). For example, multiple fans (40) having the same structure may be placed in the component placement space (S). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the structures of some of the multiple fans (40) may differ from one another.

[0110] According to the present embodiment, a plurality of fans (40) may include first and second fans (40a, 40b). The first and second fans (40a, 40b) may have their central axes arranged in a horizontal direction and may be spaced apart from each other on the same virtual axis oriented in a horizontal direction. That is, the first and second fans (40a, 40b) may be arranged side by side in a horizontal direction at the rear of the component placement space (S). At this time, the first fan (40a) may be placed on the right side of the component placement space (S), and the second fan (40b) may be placed on the left side of the component placement space (S).

[0111] Hereinafter, the present embodiment is described assuming that a plurality of fans (40) are composed of first and second fans (40a, 40b).

[0112] A passage (d1, d2, d3) for air flow may be provided between the opening (12) and the fan (40). Air introduced into the component placement space (S) through the opening (12) may flow to the fan (40) through the passage (d1, d2, d3). For example, the space between the opening (12) and the intake port (42) of the fan (40) is connected by the passage (d1, d2, d3), and external contaminated air of the cooking appliance (1) may flow into the passage (d1, d2, d3) through the opening (12) and then flow to the fan (40).

[0113] The filter (50) can be placed in the component placement space (S). In particular, the filter (50) can be placed between the opening (12) and the fan (40). According to the present embodiment, at least a portion of the filter (50) can be placed in the flow paths (d1, d2, d3).

[0114] The filter (50) can filter contaminated air introduced through the opening (12). That is, contaminated air introduced through the opening (12) can pass through the filter (50), be filtered, and then flow toward the fan (40).

[0115] The filter receiving portion (60) may be placed in the component placement space (S). The filter receiving portion (60) may have a receiving space (611, 626) provided inside for receiving the filter (50).

[0116] A fan (40) may be placed at the rear of the filter receiving portion (60). Thus, air introduced through the opening (12) can be delivered to the fan (40) after passing through the filter (50).

[0117] As the filter receiving portion (60) accommodating the filter (50) is placed in the component placement space (S), a flow path (d1, d2, d3) can be formed in the component placement space (S). External contaminated air of the cooking appliance (1) introduced through the opening (12) can flow to the fan (40) through the flow path (d1, d2, d3).

[0118] Below, each component of the exhaust system is explained in more detail.

[0119]

[0120] [Fan according to the first embodiment]

[0121] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a fan (40) included in an exhaust device according to a first embodiment. The fan (40) shown in FIG. 7 may be either a first fan (40a) or a second fan (40b).

[0122] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7, the fan (40) can be housed in the component placement space (S) to draw in external contaminated air from the top plate (10), and in particular, can be installed at the rear side of the component placement space (S). For example, the fan (40) may be a Sirocco fan having a plurality of forward-curved blades.

[0123] The fan (40) may include an impeller (41), a fan motor (43), and a fan housing (45). The impeller (41), the fan motor (43), and the fan housing (45) may be assembled so as to be detachable.

[0124] According to the present embodiment, the fan (40) may be a dual impeller fan in which two impellers (41) are driven by one fan motor (43). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the fan (40) may be a single impeller fan in which one impeller (41) is driven by one fan motor (43).

[0125] The impeller (41) can rotate around a horizontal axis, that is, a left-right axis. A space that opens to the left and right can be formed inside the impeller (41), and air sucked in by the impeller (41) can flow into the space. That is, the impeller (41) located to the left of the fan motor (43) can have a space that opens to the left, and the impeller (41) located to the right of the fan motor (43) can have a space that opens to the right.

[0126] The impeller (41) can be connected to the rotation axis of the fan motor (43). The rotation axis of the fan motor (43) can rotate around a horizontal axis, and the impeller (41) can rotate around the horizontal axis according to the rotation of the rotation axis of the fan motor (43).

[0127] The fan housing (45) can form the overall exterior of the fan (40). An internal space for accommodating an impeller (41) may be formed in the fan housing (45). The internal space may have a curvature corresponding to the outer surface of the impeller (41), and, for example, may have an overall circular, elliptical, or similar closed curve shape. The inner surface of the fan housing (45) may be formed as a curved surface that surrounds the outer surface of the impeller (41).

[0128] An intake port (42) and an exhaust port (44) may be provided in the fan housing (45). An intake port (42) may be formed on the left side of the fan housing (45) located to the left of the fan motor (43) and on the right side of the fan housing (45) located to the right of the fan motor (43). An exhaust port (44) may be formed on a part of the rear of the fan housing (45).

[0129] The intake port (42) can provide a passage necessary for external air of the fan (40) to be drawn into the interior of the impeller (41). The intake port (42) can be formed on the left or right side of the fan (40) to open the interior space of the fan (40) to the left or right.

[0130] The exhaust port (44) can provide a passage necessary for air sucked into the internal space of the fan housing (45) to be discharged to the outside of the fan (40). The exhaust port (44) can be formed in a shape that penetrates the rear of the fan housing (45).

[0131] Since the left-right and front-back directions each correspond to the horizontal direction, air sucked in horizontally through the intake port (42) can be discharged horizontally through the exhaust port (44).

[0132] In summary, the fan (40) can draw in air that has entered the component placement space (S) through the opening (12) of the top plate (10). At this time, air from the left and right sides of the fan (40) can be drawn into the fan (40) through the intake port (42) which is open to the left and right. The fan (40), having drawn in air through the intake port (42), can discharge the drawn-in air to the rear through the exhaust port (44). At this time, both the intake port (42) and the exhaust port (44) can draw in and discharge air in the horizontal direction.

[0133]

[0134] [Filter according to the first embodiment]

[0135] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an exploded perspective view of a filter (50) included in an exhaust device according to the first embodiment.

[0136] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6 and FIG. 8, the filter (50) can be received by the filter receiving portion (60) and placed in the component placement space (S). At least a portion of the filter (50) can be placed in the flow paths (d1, d2, d3) formed in the component placement space (S). In particular, the filter (50) can be placed between the opening (12) and the fan (40).

[0137] The filter (50) can perform the function of purifying the air sucked in through the opening (12) of the top plate (10).

[0138] The filter (50) may include first and second filters (51, 52).

[0139] The first filter (51) can be installed in the area where contaminated air sucked in through the opening (12) of the top plate (10) first passes inside the exhaust device. That is, the first filter (51) can be placed below the opening (12).

[0140] The first filter (51) can primarily purify contaminated air containing grease. According to the present embodiment, the first filter (51) may be a grease filter.

[0141] The first filter (51) can be formed with a porous structure. Thus, the first filter (50) can be formed with a structure that effectively captures oil or large particles of contaminants without obstructing the flow of air.

[0142] According to the present embodiment, the opening (12) may be formed in a circular shape in the central region of the top plate (10), and accordingly, the first filter (51) may have a circular cross-section and be in the shape of a cylinder with an open upper surface communicating with the opening (12).

[0143] The upper surface of the first filter (51) may be opened upward toward the opening (12), and a space may be formed inside the first filter (51) to temporarily retain contaminated air. Contaminated air sucked into the opening (12) and flowing vertically, i.e. downward, toward the interior of the first filter (51) may temporarily retain inside the first filter (51) and then diffuse radially while passing through the first filter (51) in the horizontal direction.

[0144] The first filter (51) may include a body portion (511) and an upper edge portion (512).

[0145] The upper surface of the body portion (511) may be open, the lower surface of the body portion (511) may be closed, and the side surface of the body portion (511) may be formed with a porous structure. Contaminated air introduced into the interior of the first filter (51) may come into contact with the body portion (511) while temporarily staying inside the first filter (51). Accordingly, oil or large particles of contaminants in the contaminated air may adhere to or stick to the body portion (511) and be separated from the contaminated air. Afterward, the air from which contaminants have been removed may pass through the side surface of the body portion (511) and flow to the second filter (52).

[0146] The upper rim portion (512) may be formed on the upper side of the body portion (511) and may have an annular shape. The upper rim portion (512) may be caught on the catch portion (614) of the first filter receiving portion (61) to be described later, and accordingly, the first filter (51) may be received in the first filter receiving portion (61) without shaking.

[0147] A second filter (52) can be provided between the first filter (51) and the fan (40). That is, the second filter (52) can be placed between the first filter (51) and the intake port (42) of the fan (40).

[0148] The second filter (52) may be arranged to wrap around a portion of the outer surface of the first filter (51). According to the present embodiment, since the first filter (51) has a cylindrical shape, the second filter (52) may have the shape of an annular segment with respect to the center of the first filter (51). The inner surface (521) and the outer surface (522) of the second filter (52) may each be an arc surface arranged coaxially with respect to the center of the first filter (51).

[0149] The second filter (52) can secondarily purify the contaminated air that has passed through the first filter (51), that is, the air from which contaminants have been removed. In other words, the second filter (52) can remove gaseous contaminants, such as odor components and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), from the contaminated air that has been primarily purified in the first filter (51). According to the present embodiment, the second filter (52) may be a charcoal filter or an activated carbon filter. By using the second filter (52), the cleanliness of the air finally discharged to the outside of the exhaust device can be improved.

[0150] In summary, the first and second filters (51, 52) can be sequentially arranged at positions spaced apart from each other on the airflow path (d1, d2, d3). Additionally, depending on the arrangement structure of the first and second filters (51, 52), contaminated air can pass through the first filter (51) first and then through the second filter (52). Accordingly, the overall efficiency of removing contaminants can be improved.

[0151] In particular, a first filter (51) and a second filter (52) are sequentially arranged on the upstream side of the intake port (42) of the fan (40) so that a multi-stage purification process can be performed before contaminated air reaches the fan (40). Accordingly, the cleanliness of the air flowing into the interior of the fan (40) can be increased, and contaminants can be prevented from directly adhering to the impeller (41) of the fan (40). In addition, the efficiency of collecting contaminants can be effectively improved without increasing the intake flow rate of the fan (40), and noise generated from the fan (40) can be suppressed.

[0152] Additionally, the first filter (51) is provided in a cylindrical shape, and a plurality of second filters (52, 53) are formed in an annular segment shape, so that air can be diffused radially inside the first filter (51) and then dispersed and introduced through the second filter (52) to the fan (40). Accordingly, the airflow becomes smooth and the collection efficiency can be uniformly secured.

[0153]

[0154] [Filter receiving portion according to the first embodiment]

[0155] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an exploded perspective view of a filter receiving portion (60) included in an exhaust device according to the first embodiment.

[0156] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6 and FIG. 9, the filter receiving portion (60) can be placed in the component placement space (S) and can receive the filter (50). In the component placement space (S), the filter receiving portion (60) can be placed in front of the fan (40). That is, a plurality of fans (40) can be provided behind the filter receiving portion (60).

[0157] The filter receiving portion (60) may include a first filter receiving portion (61) and a second filter receiving portion (62).

[0158] The first filter receiving portion (61) can receive the first filter (51). The first filter receiving portion (61) may have a shape corresponding to the first filter (51). In the case of the present embodiment, the first filter receiving portion (61) may have a cylindrical shape with an open top surface overall.

[0159] A first receiving space (611) for receiving a first filter (51) may be provided in the first filter receiving portion (61). The first receiving space (611) is an internal space formed by the side (612) of the first filter receiving portion (61), and the first filter (51) may be inserted and placed inside the first receiving space (611).

[0160] The side surface (612) of the first filter receiving portion (61) has a cylindrical shape and can support the outer surface of the first filter (51) by contacting at least a portion of the outer surface of the first filter (51). Accordingly, the side surface (612) of the first filter receiving portion (61) can perform the role of a first filter support portion that supports the first filter (51).

[0161] At least one through hole (613) may be formed on the side (612) of the first filter receiving portion (61). The through hole (613) may provide a passage for transferring air introduced into the first filter (51) to the second filter (52). For example, the through hole (613) may be square in shape, but the present invention is not limited thereto. When two or more through holes (613) are formed, the two or more through holes (613) may be spaced apart from each other and arranged parallel to each other on the side (612) of the first filter receiving portion (61). In particular, the two or more through holes (613) may be arranged in a line on the same line.

[0162] A catch portion (614) may be formed on the upper inner side of the side (612) of the first filter receiving portion (61). The catch portion (614) may support the first filter (51) by seating the upper edge portion (512) of the first filter (51).

[0163] The second filter receiving portion (62) can accommodate the second filter (52) and can provide a space for seating the first filter receiving portion (61). To this end, the second filter receiving portion (62) may be provided with a second receiving space (626) for accommodating the second filter (52) and a seating space (627) for seating the first filter receiving portion (61).

[0164] Specifically, the second filter receiving portion (62) may include a lower base (621), a second filter inner support portion (622), a second filter outer support portion (623), a support connecting portion (624), and an opposing portion (625).

[0165] The lower base (621) may be a support plate positioned below the second filter receiving portion (62) to support the entire structure of the second filter receiving portion (62) from below. The second filter inner support portion (622), the second filter outer support portion (623), the support connection portion (624), and the opposing portion (625) may be formed by protruding upward from the lower base (621).

[0166] A second receiving space (626) may be provided between the second filter inner support member (622) and the second filter outer support member (623). The second filter inner support member (622) may support the inner surface (521) of the second filter (52) received in the second receiving space (626), and the second filter outer support member (623) may support the outer surface (522) of the second filter (52) received in the second receiving space (626). In the case of the present embodiment, since the second filter (52) has the shape of an annular segment, the second filter inner support member (622) and the second filter outer support member (623) may have the shape of an arc surface arranged concentrically with respect to the center of the seating space (627).

[0167] At least one through hole (628, 629) may be formed in each of the second filter inner support (622) and the second filter outer support (623). The through hole (628, 629) may provide a passage for delivering air that has passed through the first filter (51) to the fan (40). For example, the through hole (628, 629) may be square in shape, but the present invention is not limited thereto. When two or more through holes (628, 629) are formed, the two or more through holes (628, 629) may be spaced apart from each other and arranged parallel to each other in the second filter inner support (622) and the second filter outer support (623), respectively. In particular, the two or more through holes (628, 629) may be arranged in a line on the same line.

[0168] The support connection part (624) can connect the second filter inner support part (622) and the second filter outer support part (623). That is, the support connection part (624) can connect both ends of the second filter inner support part (622) and the second filter outer support part (623), respectively. The support connection part (624) may have a closed shape.

[0169] The opposing portion (625) may be formed as an extension from the support connection portion (624). The opposing portion (625) may be connected to the second filter inner support portion (622) and may be positioned to face the second filter inner support portion (622). The opposing portion (625) may have a closed shape.

[0170] The second filter inner support portion (622) and the opposing portion (625) can form a seating space (627) in which the first filter receiving portion (61) is received, and the seating space (627) can be formed on the inner side of the second filter inner support portion (622). In this embodiment, since the first filter receiving portion (61) has a cylindrical shape and the second filter inner support portion (622) has an arc shape, the opposing portion (625) can have an arc shape that is symmetrical with respect to the second filter inner support portion (622), and a cylindrical seating space (627) can be provided.

[0171] In particular, referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the first filter receiving portion (61) can be inserted into and received in the seating space (627). In this case, a portion of the side (612) of the first filter receiving portion (61) may be positioned facing the second filter inner support portion (622). That is, a portion of the first filter support portion may be positioned facing the second filter inner support portion (622).

[0172] When the first filter receiving portion (61) in which the first filter (51) is received is seated in the second filter receiving portion (62) in which the second filter (52) is received, air that flows in through the opening (12) and remains inside the first filter (51) can be transferred to the second filter (52) through the through hole (613) of the first filter receiving portion (61), and air that has passed through the second filter (52) can be discharged to the outside of the second filter receiving portion (62) through the through holes (628, 629) of the second filter receiving portion (62).

[0173] Additionally, since the support connection part (624) and the opposing part (625) are closed, the air delivered to the through hole (613) of the first filter receiving part (61) is not directly discharged to the outside of the second filter receiving part (62), but can be discharged through the through hole (628, 629) of the second filter receiving part (62) after passing through the second filter receiving part (62). Accordingly, the air purified in the first filter (51) is forced to pass through the second filter (52), thereby improving the air purification efficiency.

[0174]

[0175] [Earth channel and fluid flow according to the first embodiment]

[0176] FIGS. 10 and FIGS. 11 are cross-sectional views showing fluid flow in a component placement space (S) according to the first embodiment, where FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the right side and FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the plan.

[0177] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 11, a flow path (d1, d2, d3) for guiding the flow of air may be formed inside the component placement space (S).

[0178] Euros (d1, d2, d3) may include an inflow Euro (d1) and a connecting Euro (d2, d3).

[0179] The inlet channel (d1) can be defined as a vertical channel through which air introduced from the opening (12) of the top plate (10) flows into the first filter (51).

[0180] The inlet passage (d1) is connected to the opening (12), and external contaminated air of the cooking appliance (1) can be introduced into the inlet passage (d1) through the opening (12). A first filter (51) may be placed on the inlet passage (d1). That is, the inlet passage (d1) may be formed vertically inside the first filter (51).

[0181] The connecting path (d2, d3) can be defined as a horizontal path through which air introduced into the first filter (51) passes through the second filter (52) and flows into the intake port (42) of the fan (40).

[0182] The connecting passage (d2, d3) connects the inlet passage (d1) and the intake port (42) and functions as a passage to transfer air flowing from the inlet passage (d1) to the fan (40). Air flowing through the inlet passage (d1) can be introduced into the second filter (52) after passing through the first filter (51), and air passing through the second filter (52) can be transferred to the intake port (42). The first and second filters (51, 52) can be placed on the connecting passage (d2, d3), and in particular, the second filter (52) can be placed.

[0183] The connecting channels (d2, d3) may include a first connecting channel (d2) and a second connecting channel (d3). A right portion of the second filter (52) may be placed in the first connecting channel (d2), and a left portion of the second filter (52) may be placed in the second connecting channel (d3).

[0184] As described above, the plurality of fans (40) may include a first fan (40a) positioned at the right rear of the component placement space (S) and a second fan (40b) positioned at the left rear of the component placement space (S). In this case, the first connecting path (d2) may be a path that guides air to the first fan (40a), and the second connecting path (d3) may be a path that guides air to the second fan (40b). That is, the first connecting path (d2) may guide air to some of the fans among the plurality of fans (40), and the second connecting path (d3) may guide air to the remaining fans among the plurality of fans (40).

[0185] The first connecting channel (d2) may be a channel for air to be discharged to the front right outer surface of the first filter (51) (i.e., the first part of the first filter (51)) to flow through the right part of the second filter (52) to the intake port (42) of the fan (40). The first connecting channel (d2) may be formed based on the front right outer surface of the first filter (51), the right part of the second filter (52), and the right side of the case (20).

[0186] The second connecting channel (d3) may be a channel for air to be discharged to the front left outer surface of the first filter (51) (i.e., the second part of the first filter (51)) to flow through the left part of the second filter (52) to the intake port (42) of the fan (40). The second connecting channel (d3) may be formed based on the front left outer surface of the first filter (51), the left part of the second filter (52), and the left side of the case (20).

[0187] The air flow is described below.

[0188] Contaminated air introduced from outside the cooking device (1) flows into the vertical inlet path (d1) through the opening (12) of the top plate (10) and is temporarily retained inside the first filter receiving section (61). Afterward, the retained air passes through the first filter (51), diffuses radially, and is then delivered to the second filter (52). Accordingly, the contaminated air is filtered through the first filter (51) and the second filter (52).

[0189] The right air passing through the second filter (52) is transferred to the first fan (40a) through the first connecting path (d2) in the horizontal direction, and the left air passing through the second filter (52) is transferred to the second fan (40b) through the second connecting path (d3) in the horizontal direction. The first and second fans (40a, 40b) draw in air in the left and right directions in the horizontal direction and discharge the drawn-in air through the rear direction in the horizontal direction. In this way, the connecting paths (d2, d3) can provide independent flow paths that guide only the purified air passing through the filter (50) to the fans.

[0190] According to the present embodiment, air that is introduced through the opening (12) of the top plate (10) and then filtered by the filter (50) can be sucked in horizontally through the intake port (42) of the fan (40) and discharged horizontally through the exhaust port (44) of the fan (40). Accordingly, the shape of the airflow path between the filter (50) and the fan (40) can be simplified, and the airflow resistance generated during the airflow switching process can be reduced.

[0191] In addition, according to the present embodiment, the first filter (51) and the second filter (52) are sequentially arranged on the upstream side of the intake port (42) of the fan (40), so that contaminated air can undergo a multi-stage purification process before entering the fan (40). Accordingly, the cleanliness of the air entering the interior of the fan (40) is increased, and contaminants can be prevented from directly adhering to the impeller (41) of the fan (40). Furthermore, the efficiency of collecting contaminants can be effectively improved without increasing the intake flow rate of the fan (40), and noise can be suppressed.

[0192] In addition, according to the present embodiment, the first filter (51) may be provided in a cylindrical shape, and the second filter (52) placed in the connecting channel (d2, d3) may be formed in an annular segment shape. Accordingly, air is diffused radially inside the first filter (51) and then dispersed into the second filter (52), so that the airflow becomes smooth and the capture efficiency can be uniformly secured.

[0193] In addition, according to the present invention, by arranging a plurality of fans (40) in parallel in a horizontal direction, a larger effective suction area and sufficient flow rate can be secured compared to the case where a single fan is used. Accordingly, a large amount of contaminants generated during cooking can be stably captured, and suction and exhaust performance can be improved without excessively increasing the rotation speed of the fans (40).

[0194]

[0195] [Overall structure of the cooking device according to the second embodiment]

[0196] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing the installation state of a cooking device (1) according to a second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a front perspective view of a cooking device (1) according to a second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a rear perspective view of a cooking device (1) according to a second embodiment. FIG. 15 is a drawing showing an exploded perspective view of a cooking device (1) according to a second embodiment. FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a planar cross-sectional view of a cooking device (1) according to a second embodiment. FIG. 17 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional view of a right side of a cooking device (1) according to a second embodiment. FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a front perspective view of a cooking device (1) according to a second embodiment with some components omitted. Here, some components correspond to a top plate (10).

[0197] Referring to FIG. 12, a cooking device (1) may be installed on a support (2). The support (2) may be a structure for installing or fixing components of the cooking device (1), and a space capable of accommodating at least a part of the cooking device (1) may be formed inside the support (2). For example, the support (2) may be provided in the form of a lower cabinet on which a cooking surface (2a) is formed, and the cooking device (1) may be installed on the cooking surface (2a). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the cooking device (1) may be implemented as a separate device that is seated on the cooking surface (2a).

[0198] Hereinafter, a second embodiment is described focusing on matters distinguishing it from the first embodiment, and matters identical or similar to the first embodiment are described by referring to the description of the first embodiment.

[0199] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 18, the cooking device (1) may include a top plate (10), a case (20), at least one heating unit (30), an electrical unit (not shown), and an exhaust device.

[0200] The top plate (10) is positioned on the upper part of the heating device to support the object to be heated. An opening (12) may be formed in the top plate (10). The opening (12) may be circular in shape and may be provided in a central area.

[0201] A downward protrusion (14) may be formed on the top plate (10). The downward protrusion (14) may be formed on the lower side of the opening (12) in the central area and may support the first filter receiving portion (61) without shaking.

[0202] The case (20) can have its upper and lower surfaces open, and the upper surface of the case (20) can be detachably connected to the top plate (10).

[0203] A partition wall (211) may be formed in the horizontal direction in the case (20). The case (20) may be divided into an upper side and a lower side according to the formed partition wall (211). A heating unit (30) may be accommodated in the upper side of the case (20), and a component placement space (S) may be provided in the lower side of the case (20).

[0204] An opening (212) may be formed in the bulkhead (211). The opening (212) may be circular in shape and may be provided in a central area.

[0205] An upward protrusion (213) may be formed on the partition wall (211). The upward protrusion (213) may be formed on the upper side of the opening (212) in the central area and may support the first filter receiving portion (61) without shaking. In particular, the upward protrusion (213) may be coupled with the downward protrusion (14) to support the first filter receiving portion (61).

[0206] A through hole (215) may be formed in the case (20). The through hole (215) may be formed on the rear surface of the case (20) to connect the exhaust duct (70) of the exhaust device with the case (20).

[0207] The heating unit (30) can heat the object to be heated, and the electrical unit can accommodate electrical components related to the operation of the heating unit (30).

[0208] The exhaust device can collect contaminated air generated when heating a body to be heated and discharge it to an external space of the cooking device (1). The exhaust device may include a fan (40), a filter (50), a filter housing (60), and an exhaust duct (70).

[0209] According to the present embodiment, a plurality of fans (40) may be used to more smoothly draw in contaminated air and secure sufficient exhaust performance. The plurality of fans (40) may be positioned at the rear of the component placement space (S) relative to the opening (12).

[0210] In particular, considering the size constraints of the component placement space (S), at least some of the multiple fans (40) can be stacked and arranged.

[0211] A protruding area (214) covering the upper portion of some of the multiple fans (40) may be formed in the partition wall (211). That is, as the multiple fans (40) are stacked and arranged, the protruding area (214) may be formed protruding upward from the partition wall (211) to secure a space for accommodating the upper portion of some of the fans (40), for example, the second fan (40b).

[0212] The structure of the exhaust system is explained in more detail below.

[0213]

[0214] [Overall structure of the exhaust device according to the second embodiment]

[0215] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an exhaust device according to a second embodiment.

[0216] Hereinafter, the internal structure of the exhaust device will be explained with reference to FIGS. 12 to 19.

[0217] The exhaust device may include a fan (40), a filter (50), a filter receiving section (60), and an exhaust duct (70).

[0218] The fan (40) can draw in contaminated air, which is air on the upper side of the top plate (10), through the opening (12) of the top plate (10). The fan (40) can be placed in the component placement space (S).

[0219] There may be multiple fans (40). For example, multiple fans (40) having the same structure may be placed in the component placement space (S). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0220] According to the present embodiment, a plurality of fans (40) may include first and second fans (40a, 40b). The first and second fans (40a, 40b) may have their central axes arranged horizontally.

[0221] The first fan (40a) may be positioned close to the opening (12) of the top plate (10), and the second fan (40b) may be positioned further back from the opening (12) than the first fan (40a). The first and second fans (40a, 40b) may be positioned in an overlapping area in the left-right direction and in different positions in the up-down direction.

[0222] According to the present embodiment, in the vertical direction, the first vertical distance between the top plate (10) and the first fan (40a) may be greater than the second vertical distance between the top plate (10) and the second fan (40b). That is, the first and second fans (40a, 40b) may be arranged such that at least a portion of them are stacked at the rear side of the component placement space (S) with respect to the center of the component placement space (S) corresponding to the lower side of the opening (12).

[0223] Hereinafter, the present embodiment is described assuming that a plurality of fans (40) are composed of first and second fans (40a, 40b).

[0224] A passage (d1, d2, d3) for air flow may be provided between the opening (12) and the fan (40). Air introduced into the component placement space (S) through the opening (12) may flow to the fan (40) through the passage (d1, d2, d3).

[0225] The filter (50) can filter contaminated air through the opening (12).

[0226] The filter (50) can be placed between the opening (12) and the fan (40), and at least a portion of the filter (50) can be placed in the flow path (d1, d2, d3).

[0227] First and second fans (40a, 40b) may be stacked and arranged behind the filter (50). Thus, air introduced through the opening (12) can be delivered to the fans (40) after passing through the filter (50).

[0228] The filter receiving portion (60) may be placed in the component placement space (S). The filter receiving portion (60) may have a receiving space (611, 626) provided inside for receiving the filter (50). As the filter receiving portion (60) is placed in the component placement space (S), a flow path (d1, d2, d3) may be formed in the component placement space (S).

[0229] The exhaust duct (70) can discharge air from the fan (40). Additionally, the exhaust duct (70) can support the second fan (40b) among the plurality of fans (40). The exhaust duct (70) can be connected to a through hole (215) formed on the rear of the case (20).

[0230] Meanwhile, the structure of the fan (40) was described in the first embodiment, and below, each component of the exhaust device excluding the fan (40) will be described in more detail.

[0231]

[0232] [Filter according to the second embodiment]

[0233] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an exploded perspective view of a filter (50) included in an exhaust device according to a second embodiment.

[0234] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 18 and FIG. 20, the filter (50) can be received by the filter receiving portion (60) and placed in the flow paths (d1, d2, d3) formed in the component placement space (S). The filter (50) can be placed between the opening (12) and the fan (40).

[0235] The first filter (51) can be placed on the lower side of the opening (12).

[0236] According to the present embodiment, due to the stacked arrangement of the opening (12) formed in a circular shape and the plurality of fans (40), the first filter (51) may have the shape of an annular segment with an open top surface and a closed bottom surface. For example, the first filter (51) may have the shape of a semi-cylindrical column with an open top surface.

[0237] The first filter (51) may include a body portion (511) and an upper edge portion (512). The body portion (511) and the upper edge portion (512) may also have the shape of an annular segment.

[0238] The second filter (52) may be provided between the first filter (51) and the fan (40), and may be in the shape of an annular segment arranged to wrap around the outer surface of the first filter (51).

[0239] Hereinafter, the contents of the first and second filters (51) refer to the contents of the first embodiment described above.

[0240]

[0241] [Filter receiving portion according to the second embodiment]

[0242] FIGS. 21 and FIGS. 22 are perspective views of a filter receiving portion (60) included in an exhaust device according to a second embodiment, where FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a first filter receiving portion (61) and FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a second filter receiving portion (62).

[0243] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 18, FIGS. 21 and FIGS. 22, the filter receiving portion (60) may include first and second filter receiving portions (61, 62).

[0244] The first filter receiving portion (61) can accommodate the first filter (51) and can provide a space for seating the second filter receiving portion (62).

[0245] A first receiving space (611) for receiving the first filter (51) may be provided on one side of the first filter receiving portion (61). For example, as the first filter (51) has a semi-cylindrical shape, the first receiving space (611) may also have a semi-cylindrical shape.

[0246] A portion of the side (612) of the first filter receiving portion (61) facing the first filter (51), for example, the front side of the side (612), may contact the outer surface of the first filter (51) to support the outer surface of the first filter (51). Accordingly, a portion of the side (612) of the first filter receiving portion (61) may serve as a first filter support portion that supports the first filter (51). At least one through hole (613), which is a passage for transferring air introduced into the first filter (51) to the second filter (52), may be formed in a portion of the side (612).

[0247] On the other side of the first filter receiving portion (61), a support portion (615) and a bend portion (616) may be provided for stable seating on the second filter receiving portion (62). The support portion (615) may be formed protruding upward from the lower surface of the first filter receiving portion (61) and may be positioned to face a part of the side surface (612). The bend portion (616) may be formed by bending backward from the support portion (615). The bend portion (616) may be seated on the seating portion (630) of the second filter receiving portion (62). Accordingly, the first filter receiving portion (61) can be stably seated on the second filter receiving portion (62).

[0248] The second filter receiving portion (62) can accommodate the second filter (52) and can provide space for seating the first filter receiving portion (61).

[0249] In particular, referring to FIG. 15, the second filter receiving portion (62) may be formed on the lower side of the partition wall (211) provided in the case (20). The second filter receiving portion (62) may be formed integrally with the case (20) or the partition wall (211) of the case (20). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the second filter receiving portion (62) implemented as a separate device may be coupled on the lower side of the partition wall (211).

[0250] The second filter receiving portion (62) may be provided with a second receiving space (626) for receiving the second filter (52) and a seating space (625) for seating the first filter receiving portion (61).

[0251] The second filter receiving portion (62) may include a lower base (621), a second filter inner support portion (622), a second filter outer support portion (623), a support connecting portion (624), an opposing portion (625), and a seating portion (630).

[0252] The lower base (621) is positioned below the second filter receiving portion (62) to support the second filter (52) from below. The second filter inner support portion (622), the second filter outer support portion (623), the support connecting portion (624), and the opposing portion (625) may be formed by protruding upward from the lower base (621).

[0253] The second filter inner support member (622) can support the inner surface (521) of the second filter (52) accommodated in the second receiving space (626), and the second filter outer support member (623) can support the outer surface (522) of the second filter (52) accommodated in the second receiving space (626). At least one through hole (628, 629), which is a passage for transferring air that has passed through the first filter (51) to the fan (40), may be formed in each of the second filter inner support member (622) and the second filter outer support member (623).

[0254] The support connection part (624) can connect both ends of the second filter inner support part (622) and the second filter outer support part (623) to each other. The support connection part (624) may have a closed shape.

[0255] The opposing portion (625) may be formed as an extension from the support connection portion (624). The opposing portion (625) may be connected to the second filter inner support portion (622) and may be positioned to face the second filter inner support portion (622). The opposing portion (625) may have a closed shape.

[0256] The seating portion (630) can be formed by bending it backward from the opposing portion (625). The bent portion (615) can be seated on the seating portion (630). Accordingly, the first filter receiving portion (61) can be stably seated on the second filter receiving portion (62).

[0257] According to the structure of the first and second filter receiving sections (61, 62) described above, an area for placing at least a portion of the first fan (40a) may be provided. The area may be an overlapping area of ​​the outer rear area of ​​the opposing section (625) and the outer lower area of ​​the seating section (630). At this time, the outer rear area of ​​the opposing section (625) may correspond to the rear area of ​​the lower rear side of the filter receiving section (60), and the outer lower area of ​​the seating section (630) may correspond to the lower area of ​​the upper rear side of the second filter receiving section (62). Accordingly, the overlapping area may be formed by the rear area of ​​the lower rear side and the lower area of ​​the upper rear side of the second filter receiving section (62), and at least a portion of the first fan (40a) may be placed in the overlapping area. Accordingly, even if the first and second fans (40a, 40b) are stacked, they can be easily accommodated in the component placement space (S).

[0258]

[0259] [Exhaust duct according to the second embodiment]

[0260] FIGS. 23 and FIGS. 24 are perspective views of an exhaust duct (70) included in an exhaust device according to a second embodiment.

[0261] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 18, FIGS. 23, and FIGS. 24, the exhaust duct (70) can discharge air discharged from each of the first and second fans (40a, 40b). Additionally, the exhaust duct (70) can support the second fan (40b), and accordingly, the first fan (40a) and the second fan (40b) can be stacked.

[0262] The exhaust duct (70) may include a first discharge section (71), a second discharge section (72), and a connecting section (73). The first discharge section (71), the second discharge section (72), and the connecting section (73) may be formed integrally, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0263] The first discharge section (71) has an empty internal space and an open rear side, and a first discharge port (74) having a shape corresponding to the exhaust port (44) of the first fan (40a) may be provided on the front side. Air discharged from the exhaust port (44) of the first fan (40a) can flow into the internal space of the first discharge section (71) through the first discharge port (64).

[0264] The second discharge section (72) is hollow inside and has an open rear side. A second discharge port (75) having a shape corresponding to the exhaust port (44) of the second fan (40b) may be provided on the upper front side, and a first discharge port (74) having a shape corresponding to the exhaust port (44) of the first fan (40a) may be provided, and the lower front side may be open. Air discharged from the exhaust port (44) of the second fan (40b) can flow into the internal space of the second discharge section (72) through the second discharge port (75).

[0265] The connecting part (73) can connect the first and second discharge ports (71, 72). That is, the front of the connecting part (73) can be connected to the rear of the first discharge port (71), and the rear of the connecting part (73) can be connected to the lower front side of the second discharge port (72), and accordingly, the connecting part (73) can connect the rear of the first discharge port (71) and the lower front side of the second discharge port (72). Air introduced into the first discharge port (74) can flow into the internal space of the second discharge port (72) through the connecting part (73).

[0266] A second fan (40b) may be seated on the upper surface of the connecting section (73) and supported from below. Additionally, a first fan (40a) is positioned on the front side of the first discharge section (71), and since the connecting section (73) has a predetermined height, the first and second fans (40a, 40b) may be stacked and arranged according to the shape of the exhaust duct (70) and the position of the first fan (40a).

[0267] In particular, to solve the height constraint of the cooking device (1), the first discharge section (71) can be connected so as to be inclined downward toward the connecting section (73).

[0268] Specifically, the first fan (40a) is positioned at the front of the first discharge section (71), and the front of the first discharge section (71) is provided with a size greater than a predetermined size in order to smoothly receive air discharged from the outlet (44) of the first fan (40a).

[0269] However, if the first discharge section (71) is not formed in a slanted shape, but rather in a rectangular shape, for example, the front of the connecting section (73) that communicates with the rear of the first discharge section (71) must also have the same size, and accordingly, the height of the connecting section (73) increases. Also, referring to FIG. 17, a protruding area (214) is formed to protrude above the partition wall (211) to accommodate the upper part of the second fan (40b) due to the stacking structure.

[0270] Therefore, if the height of the connecting part (73) increases, the lower position of the second fan (40b) seated on the connecting part (73) is raised, and the height of the protruding area (214) increases, and consequently, the upper height of the partition wall (211) also increases, resulting in a problem where the height constraint of the entire cooking device (1) is not satisfied.

[0271] In order to resolve this height limitation, in this embodiment, the first discharge section (71) can be formed to be inclined downward toward the connecting section (73). Accordingly, the height of the connecting section (73) can be prevented, and the overall height of the cooking device (1) can be effectively suppressed from becoming excessively high.

[0272]

[0273] [Earthway and fluid flow according to the second embodiment]

[0274] FIGS. 25 and FIGS. 26 are cross-sectional views showing fluid flow in a component placement space (S) according to a second embodiment, where FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the right side and FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of the plan.

[0275] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 26, a flow path (d1, d2, d3, d4, d5) for guiding the flow of air can be formed inside the component placement space (S).

[0276] The Euro (d1, d2, d3, d4, d5) may include an inlet Euro (d1), a connecting Euro (d2, d3), and a discharge Euro (d4, d5).

[0277] The inlet passage (d1) can be defined as a longitudinal passage through which air introduced from the opening (12) of the top plate (10) flows into the first filter (51). The first filter (51) can be placed on the inlet passage (d1).

[0278] The connecting passage (d2, d3) can be defined as a horizontal passage through which air introduced into the first filter (51) passes through the second filter (52) and flows to the intake port (42) of the fan (40). The connecting passage (d2, d3) connects the inflow passage (d1) and the intake port (42) and functions as a passage to deliver the air flowing from the inflow passage (d1) to the fan (40). The first and second filters (51, 52) may be placed on the connecting passage (d2, d3), and in particular, the second filter (52) may be placed thereon.

[0279] The connecting channels (d2, d3) may include a first connecting channel (d2) and a second connecting channel (d3). A right portion of the second filter (52) may be placed in the first connecting channel (d2), and a left portion of the second filter (52) may be placed in the second connecting channel (d3).

[0280] As described above, the plurality of fans (40) may include a first fan (40a) positioned close to the opening (12) and a second fan (40b) positioned further back from the opening (12) than the first fan (40a). In this case, the first connecting passage (d2) may be a passage that guides air to the right intake port (42) of the first and second fans (40a, 40b), and the second connecting passage (d3) may be a passage that guides air to the left intake port (42) of the first and second fans (40a, 40b).

[0281] The first connecting channel (d2) can be formed based on the front right outer surface of the first filter (51), a right part of the second filter (52), and the right side of the case (20). The second connecting channel (d3) can be formed based on the front left outer surface of the first filter (51), a left part of the second filter (52), and the left side of the case (20).

[0282] The discharge passage (d4, d5) can be defined as a horizontal passage that discharges air discharged from the first and second fans (40a, 40b) into the external space of the cooking appliance (1). The discharge passage (d4, d5) can be formed in the exhaust duct (70) and may include the first and second discharge passages (d4, d5).

[0283] The first discharge path (d4) functions as a passage for discharging air discharged from the first fan (40a) to the outside through the first discharge port (74) of the exhaust duct (70). The first discharge path (d4) can be formed by the internal space of the first discharge section (71), the internal space of the connecting section (73), and the lower internal space of the second discharge section (72).

[0284] The second discharge path (d5) functions as a passage for discharging air discharged from the second fan (40b) to the outside through the second discharge port (75) of the exhaust duct (70). The second discharge path (d5) can be formed by the upper internal space of the second discharge section (72).

[0285] The air flow is described below.

[0286] Contaminated air introduced from outside the cooking device (1) flows into the vertical inlet path (d1) through the opening (12) of the top plate (10) and is temporarily retained inside the first filter (51). Afterward, the retained air passes through the first filter (51), diffuses radially, and is then delivered to the second filter (52). Accordingly, the contaminated air is filtered through the first filter (51) and the second filter (52).

[0287] The right air passing through the second filter (52) is transferred to the right side of the first and second fans (40a, 40b) through the first connecting path (d2) in the horizontal direction, and the left air passing through the second filter (52) is transferred to the left side of the second fan (40b) through the second connecting path (d3) in the horizontal direction. The first and second fans (40a, 40b) draw in air in the left and right directions in the horizontal direction.

[0288] Air sucked in by the first fan (40a) is discharged to the outside through the first discharge path (d4) formed downward in the horizontal direction, and air sucked in by the second fan (40b) is discharged to the outside through the second discharge path (d5) formed downward in the horizontal direction.

[0289] According to the present embodiment, air that is introduced through the opening (12) of the top plate (10) and then filtered by the filter (50) can be sucked in horizontally through the intake port (42) of the fan (40) and discharged horizontally through the exhaust port (44) of the fan (40). Accordingly, the shape of the airflow path between the filter (50) and the fan (40) can be simplified, and the airflow resistance generated during the airflow switching process can be reduced.

[0290] In addition, according to the present embodiment, the first filter (51) and the second filter (52) are sequentially arranged on the upstream side of the intake port (42) of the fan (40), so that contaminated air can undergo a multi-stage purification process before entering the fan (40). Accordingly, the cleanliness of the air entering the interior of the fan (40) is increased, and contaminants can be prevented from directly adhering to the impeller (41) of the fan (40). Furthermore, the efficiency of collecting contaminants can be effectively improved without increasing the intake flow rate of the fan (40), and noise can be suppressed.

[0291] In addition, according to the present embodiment, the first filter (51) may be provided in a semi-cylindrical shape, and the second filter (52) placed in the connecting channel (d2, d3) may be formed in an annular segment shape. Accordingly, air is diffused radially inside the first filter (51) and then dispersed into the second filter (52), so that the airflow is smooth and the collection efficiency can be uniformly secured.

[0292] In addition, according to the present invention, by stacking and arranging a plurality of fans (40), a larger effective suction area and sufficient flow rate can be secured compared to the case where a single fan is used. Accordingly, a large amount of contaminants generated during cooking can be stably captured, and suction and exhaust performance can be improved without excessively increasing the rotation speed of the fan (40). Furthermore, by stacking a plurality of fans (40), the constraints on the component placement space can be effectively resolved.

[0293]

[0294] As described above, the present invention has been explained by specific details such as specific components, limited embodiments, and drawings; however, this is provided merely to aid in the overall understanding of the invention, and the invention is not limited to the above embodiments. A person skilled in the art to which the invention pertains can make various modifications and variations from this description. Therefore, the scope of the invention should not be limited to the described embodiments, and all things equivalent to or having equivalent variations to the claims described below, as well as the claims themselves, shall be considered to fall within the scope of the concept of the invention.

Claims

1. A top plate having an opening formed therein that covers a component placement space and opens the component placement space; A fan disposed in the above-mentioned component placement space and provided with an intake port and an exhaust port; and A filter disposed between the opening and the fan; comprising, Air that flows into the above opening and passes through the above filter is sucked in horizontally through the above intake port, and The air sucked in through the above intake port is discharged horizontally through the above exhaust port, Cooking appliances.

2. In Paragraph 1, A fluid formed in the above-mentioned component placement space; further comprising, The above Euro is, An inflow channel formed in a vertical direction in communication with the above-mentioned opening, and It includes a connecting channel that guides the air flowing in the above-mentioned inlet channel in a transverse direction. The intake port of the above fan draws in air guided to the above connecting path in a horizontal direction. Cooking appliances.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above filter is, A first filter positioned on the lower side of the above-mentioned opening, and It includes a second filter disposed between the first filter and the fan, and The first filter is placed on the above inlet path, and The second filter is disposed on the above-mentioned connecting path, Cooking appliances.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above opening has a circular shape, The first filter has a cylindrical shape or a partial cylindrical shape with an open upper surface communicating with the opening, The second filter is arranged in the shape of an annular segment to surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the first filter. Cooking appliances.

5. In Paragraph 3, A first filter receiving portion having a first receiving space for receiving the first filter; and A second filter receiving portion further comprising a second receiving portion having a second receiving portion for receiving the second filter, and a second receiving portion for receiving the second filter, provided with a seating space for the first filter receiving portion. Cooking appliances.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above second filter receiving portion is, A second filter inner support member that supports the inner surface of the second filter, and It includes a second filter outer support member that supports the outer surface of the second filter, and At least one through hole for air flow is formed in each of the inner support portion of the second filter and the outer support portion of the second filter, and The second receiving space is formed between the second filter inner support and the second filter outer support, and The above-mentioned seating space is formed on the inner side of the second filter inner support member, Cooking appliances.

7. In Paragraph 6, The first filter receiving portion supports the outer surface of the first filter and includes a first filter support portion having at least one through hole formed therein for air flow. The first receiving space is formed by the first filter support above, and At least a portion of the first filter support is positioned facing the second filter inner support. Cooking appliances.

8. In Paragraph 6, The second filter receiving portion further comprises a support connecting portion connecting the second filter inner support portion and the second filter outer support portion, and an opposing portion disposed opposite to the second filter inner support portion and extending from the support connecting portion. The inner support portion of the second filter and the opposite portion form the seating space, and The above supporting connection part and the above opposing part are of a closed shape, Cooking appliances.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above fans are multiple, and The plurality of fans are spaced apart from each other on the same virtual axis oriented in the horizontal direction, Cooking appliances.

10. In Paragraph 9, A filter receiving portion for accommodating the above filter; further comprising, The above plurality of fans are positioned at the rear of the filter receiving portion, Cooking appliances.

11. In Paragraph 9, A connecting channel formed in the above-mentioned component placement space; further comprising, The above connecting channel includes a first connecting channel that guides air to some of the plurality of fans, and a second connecting channel that guides air to the remaining of the plurality of fans. The first connecting channel is formed according to a first part of the first filter and a part of the second filter surrounding the first part, and The second connecting channel is formed according to the second part of the first filter and the remaining part of the second filter surrounding the second part, Cooking appliances.

12. In Paragraph 1, The above fan includes a first fan and a second fan positioned further back than the first fan, and The first vertical distance between the top plate and the first fan is greater than the second vertical distance between the top plate and the second fan, Cooking appliances.

13. In Paragraph 12, A connecting channel formed in the above-mentioned component placement space; further comprising, The above connecting channel includes a first connecting channel that guides air to one side of the first and second fans, and a second connecting channel that guides air to the other side of the first and second fans. The first connecting channel is formed according to a first part of the first filter and a part of the second filter surrounding the first part, and The second connecting channel is formed according to the second part of the first filter and the remaining part of the second filter surrounding the second part, Cooking appliances.

14. In Paragraph 12, A filter receiving portion for accommodating the above filter; further comprising, The upper rear side of the filter receiving portion is formed to be spaced rearward compared to the lower rear side of the filter receiving portion, and At least a portion of the first fan is disposed in the overlapping area of ​​the rear region of the lower rear side and the lower region of the upper rear side, and At least a portion of the first fan is disposed in the rear area of ​​the rear of the filter receiving portion, Cooking appliances.

15. In Paragraph 13, A case in which an open upper surface is joined to the top plate; further comprising, The above case includes a partition separating the upper side where the heating unit is placed and the lower side where the component placement space is formed. A protruding area covering the upper part of the second fan is formed on the upper part of the partition wall. Cooking appliances.

16. In Paragraph 13, A further comprising an exhaust duct that discharges air discharged from each of the first and second fans and supports the second fan. Cooking appliances.

17. In Paragraph 16, The above exhaust duct is, A first discharge section provided with a first discharge port corresponding to the exhaust port of the first fan, and A second discharge section provided with a second discharge port corresponding to the exhaust port of the second fan, and It includes a connecting part that connects the first and second discharge ports, and The second fan is supported from below by the upper surface of the above-mentioned connecting part, Cooking appliances.

18. In Paragraph 17, The first discharge portion is connected at an angle downward toward the connecting portion, and The second discharge section comprises an upper front side where the second discharge opening is formed and a rear front side communicating with the communication section. Cooking appliances.

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