Cooking apparatus

Abstract

This cooking apparatus comprises: a main body having a cooking area, and including an inlet through which air flows therein; a filter unit for filtering the air flowing into the main body through the inlet; a water spraying unit which is disposed on an upstream side of the filter unit along the flow of air flowing inside the main body, and which sprays water such that particles that are mixed in the air heading toward the filter unit are captured in the water; and a condensing unit which is disposed on a downstream side of the filter unit along the flow of air flowing inside the main body, and which cools the air such that water vapor mixed in the air having passed through the filter unit is condensed.

Description

Cooking appliances

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cooking appliance having an improved structure.

[0002] A cooking appliance is a device for heating and cooking a food item, such as food, and refers to a device capable of providing various functions related to cooking, such as heating, thawing, drying, and sterilization of the food item. A cooking appliance may include a gas cooktop that cooks food using gas and an electric cooktop that cooks food using electricity.

[0003] A gas cooktop is a gas range, a device that cooks food using heat generated by turning a lever to ignite and burn gas from a small generator.

[0004] An electric cooktop is an induction cooktop, a device that uses electricity to generate an electromagnetic field in an internal coil and induces eddy currents in a cooking vessel according to the law of electromagnetic induction to generate heat and cook food with that heat.

[0005] Contaminants such as oil vapors and odor particles may be generated during the process of cooking food using a cooking appliance. The cooking appliance may include components for removing or discharging these contaminants to the outside.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a cooking appliance capable of removing contaminants generated during cooking.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a cooking appliance capable of removing contaminants mixed in the air by allowing air containing contaminants to flow through a circulation path passing through the interior of the main body.

[0008] The technical problems to be solved in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs from the description below.

[0009] A cooking device according to the concept of the present disclosure comprises a main body having a cooking area, the main body including an inlet provided for air to be introduced, a filter unit provided for filtering air introduced into the main body through the inlet, a water spray unit disposed upstream of the filter unit in the airflow within the main body and spraying water so that particles mixed in the air directed toward the filter unit are captured in the water, and a condensation unit disposed downstream of the filter unit in the airflow within the main body and cooling the air so that water vapor mixed in the air passing through the filter unit is condensed.

[0010] A cooking device according to the concept of the present disclosure comprises a case in which a heating source is disposed inside, a main body including an inlet provided on one side of the case and an outlet provided on the other side opposite to the one side of the case, a water spraying unit disposed below the inlet and provided to spray water into air flowing in from the inlet, and a condensing unit disposed below the case and cools the air so that water vapor mixed in the air flowing from the inlet to the outlet is condensed. The condensing unit includes a cooling surface disposed at an angle with respect to the lower surface of the case.

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

[0012] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view along the line A-A' shown in Figure 1.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method of removing contaminants mixed in the air through a water spray unit and a filter unit according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating the internal flow path of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a cooking device according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view along the line B-B' shown in Figure 6.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a cooking device according to one embodiment.

[0019] The various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments.

[0020] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0021] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0022] In this document, each of the phrases such as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0023] The term “and / or” includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0024] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another component and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0025] Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0026] Terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this document, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0027] When it is said that a component is "connected," "combined," "supported," or "in contact" with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, combined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, combined, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0028] When it is said that a component is located "on" another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with the other, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0029] The terms "part," "module," and "component" may be implemented in hardware or software. Depending on the embodiments, a plurality of "parts," "modules," and "components" may be implemented as a single component, or a single "part," "module," or "component" may include a plurality of components.

[0030] Terms such as "~part," "~unit," "~block," "~part," and "~module" may refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, the above terms may refer to at least one piece of hardware such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) or ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), at least one piece of software stored in memory, or at least one process processed by a processor.

[0031] The symbols attached to each step are used to identify each step and do not indicate the order of the steps relative to one another; the steps may be performed differently from the specified order unless a specific order is clearly indicated in the context.

[0032] Terms such as "front," "rear," "left," "right," "top," and "bottom" used in the following description are defined based on the drawings; however, the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0033] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cooking device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a cooking device according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view along line A-A' indicated in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a method of removing contaminants mixed in the air through a water spray unit and a filter unit according to one embodiment.

[0035] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the cooking device (1) may include a main body (10). The main body (10) may accommodate various components of the cooking device (1). The main body (10) may be provided in a roughly box shape. However, there are no special restrictions on the shape of the main body (10).

[0036] The main body (10) may include a first body (11) and a second body (12). The first body (11) and the second body (12) may be arranged to be coupled to each other. Specifically, the first body (11) may be coupled to the upper side of the second body (12), and the second body (12) may be coupled to the lower side of the first body (11). The first body (11) and the second body (12) may form a receiving space for accommodating various components of the cooking device (1).

[0037] The first body (11) and the second body (12) may be separably connected to each other. Further details regarding this will be described later.

[0038] The main body (10) may include a top plate (13). The top plate (13) may be disposed on the upper surface of the main body (10). Specifically, the top plate (13) may be disposed on the upper surface of the first body (11).

[0039] A cooking area (10a) may be provided in the main body (10). The cooking area (10a) may be an area where a cooking container containing food is placed. Additionally, the cooking area (10a) may be an area where food is cooked by heating the cooking container. By heating the cooking container placed in the cooking area (10a) through a heating source (14) to be described later, the food contained in the cooking container can be cooked.

[0040] For example, a cooking area (10a) may be provided on a top plate (13). The top plate (13) may include a plurality of cooking areas (10a) to heat a plurality of cooking vessels.

[0041] However, the location where the cooking area (10a) is provided is not limited to the top plate (13). For example, the top plate (13) may be omitted, and the cooking area (10a) may be provided on the upper surface of the first body (11).

[0042] The main body (10) may include a heating source (14). The heating source (14) may be configured to heat a cooking vessel placed in a cooking area (10a).

[0043] The heating source (14) may be positioned below the cooking area (10a). For example, the heating source (14) may be positioned below the top plate (13).

[0044] The heating source (14) may be placed inside the first body (11). Specifically, the heating source (14) may be placed inside the case (15) to be described later.

[0045] For example, the heating source (14) may include a coil (14a). As an alternating current flows through the coil (14a), an induced current may be generated in a cooking vessel placed in the cooking area (10a), and the cooking vessel may be heated accordingly. However, the type of heating source (14) is not limited thereto, and the heating source (14) may include a configuration configured to generate heat on its own or ignite gas.

[0046] The main body (10) may include a case (15). The case (15) may accommodate a heating source (14). A receiving space for accommodating the heating source (14) may be formed inside the case (15).

[0047] The case (15) can be placed below the cooking area (10a). For example, the case (15) can be placed below the top plate (13).

[0048] The case (15) may be provided on the upper part of the main body (10). Specifically, the case (15) may be provided on the first body (11) of the main body (10).

[0049] The case (15) may have a roughly box shape. Specifically, the case (15) may include a first plate portion (15a) provided on the upper part of the case (15), a second plate portion (15b) provided on the lower part of the case (15), and a side wall portion (15c) connecting the edge of the first plate portion (15a) and the edge of the second plate portion (15b). That is, the first plate portion (15a) may be the upper surface of the case (15), the second plate portion (15b) may be the lower surface of the case (15), and the side wall portion (15c) may be the side surface of the case (15).

[0050] The main body (10) may include an inlet (16a). The inlet (16a) may be provided to allow air to flow into the main body (10). For example, the inlet (16a) may be provided to allow air around the cooking area (10a) to flow into the main body (10). At this time, contaminants such as oil vapor and odor particles that may be generated during the food cooking process may also be introduced into the main body (10) through the inlet (16a).

[0051] The inlet (16a) may be provided on the upper surface of the main body (10). Specifically, the inlet (16a) may be provided in the first body (11) of the main body (10).

[0052] The inlet (16a) may be opened in an up-and-down direction. For example, the inlet (16a) may include a plurality of openings that are opened in an up-and-down direction.

[0053] The inlet (16a) may be provided on one side of the cooking area (10a). In other words, the inlet (16a) may be provided on one side of the top plate (13).

[0054] Additionally, an inlet (16a) may be provided on one side of the case (15). Specifically, the inlet (16a) may be provided on one side of the first plate portion (15a) of the case (15).

[0055] The main body (10) may include an outlet (16b). The outlet (16b) may be provided to discharge air inside the main body (10) to the outside. For example, the outlet (16b) may be provided to discharge air inside the main body (10) to the area around the cooking zone (10a). Air introduced into the main body (10) through the inlet (16a) may be discharged to the outside of the main body (10) through the outlet (16b).

[0056] The discharge port (16b) may be provided on the upper surface of the main body (10). Specifically, the discharge port (16b) may be provided on the first body (11) of the main body (10).

[0057] The outlet (16b) may be opened in an upward and downward direction. For example, the outlet (16b) may include a plurality of openings that are opened in an upward and downward direction.

[0058] The exhaust port (16b) may be provided on the other side opposite to one side of the cooking area (10a). In other words, the exhaust port (16b) may be provided on the other side opposite to one side of the top plate (13).

[0059] Additionally, the discharge port (16b) may be provided on the other side opposite to one side of the case (15). Specifically, the discharge port (16b) may be provided on the other side opposite to one side of the first plate portion (15a) of the case (15).

[0060] A space through which air can flow may be formed inside the main body (10). Through this configuration, air introduced through the inlet (16a) can flow inside the main body (10) and then be discharged through the outlet (16b). Further details regarding this will be described later.

[0061] The cooking device (1) may include a top cover (20). The top cover (20) may be attached to the upper side of the main body (10).

[0062] The top cover (20) may be provided to cover at least a portion of the main body (10). For example, the top cover (20) may be provided to cover the inlet (16a) and the outlet (16b).

[0063] The top cover (20) may include an inlet cover portion (21) provided to cover an inlet (16a) and an outlet cover portion (22) provided to cover an outlet (16b). Specifically, the inlet cover portion (21) may cover the inlet (16a) while being spaced upward from the inlet (16a), and the outlet cover portion (22) may cover the outlet (16b) while being spaced upward from the outlet (16b). Accordingly, a first spaced-out space (S1) may be formed between the inlet cover portion (21) and the inlet (16a), and a second spaced-out space (S2) may be formed between the outlet cover portion (22) and the outlet (16b).

[0064] The first separation space (S1) can be provided to allow air around the cooking area (10a) to flow in. Air passing through the first separation space (S1) can flow into the main body (10). That is, air around the cooking area (10a) can flow into the main body (10) by sequentially passing through the first separation space (S1) and the inlet (16a).

[0065] The second separation space (S2) can be provided to allow air inside the main body (10) to flow in. Air passing through the second separation space (S2) can flow around the cooking area (10a). That is, air inside the main body (10) can flow around the cooking area (10a) by sequentially passing through the outlet (16b) and the second separation space (S2).

[0066] The cooking device (1) may include a filter unit (30). The filter unit (30) may be configured to filter air flowing into the main body (10) through an inlet (16a). In other words, the filter unit (30) may be configured to filter air flowing from the inlet (16a) to the outlet (16b). That is, the filter unit (30) may be configured to filter air flowing into the main body (10). The filter unit (30) may filter the air flowing into the main body (10) through the inlet (16a) to capture contaminants mixed in the air.

[0067] The filter section (30) may be placed inside the main body (10). Specifically, the filter section (30) may be placed in the second body (12) of the main body (10). The filter section (30) may be placed on the airflow path through which air passes through the inlet (16a).

[0068] The filter section (30) may be provided in multiple numbers. For example, the filter section (30) may include a first filter section and a second filter section forming a V-shape. However, there is no particular limitation on the number of filter sections (30).

[0069] The filter unit (30) may include a filter frame (31) and a filter (32). The filter (32) may be mounted on the filter frame (31). The filter (32) may be provided inside the filter frame (31).

[0070] For example, the filter (32) may include a mesh member (32a) and a plurality of mesh holes (32b) formed in the mesh member (32a).

[0071] The cooking device (1) may include a water spray unit (40). The water spray unit (40) may be configured to spray water into the air flowing into the main body (10) from the inlet (16a). Specifically, the water spray unit (40) may be configured to spray water into the air flowing from the inlet (16a) to the filter unit (30). Through this configuration, contaminant particles (P) mixed in the air heading toward the filter unit (30) can be captured in the water. Further details regarding this will be described later.

[0072] The water spray unit (40) may be positioned inside the main body (10). Specifically, the water spray unit (40) may be positioned below the inlet (16a). For example, the water spray unit (40) may be positioned on the side wall (15c) of the case (15) provided below the inlet (16a). In other words, the water spray unit (40) may be positioned on the side of the case (15) provided below the inlet (16a).

[0073] The water spray unit (40) can be positioned upstream of the filter unit (30) in the airflow within the main body (10). In other words, the filter unit (30) can be positioned downstream of the water spray unit (40) in the airflow within the main body (10).

[0074] For example, the water spraying unit (40) may include an electrostatic spraying device (41). The electrostatic spraying device (41) is a device that sprays water broken down into fine particles by applying voltage to the water. The electrostatic spraying device (41) can spray water in uniformly divided portions.

[0075] A cooking device (1) according to the concept of the present disclosure can remove contaminants mixed in the air through a water spray unit (40) and a filter unit (30). Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, a method of removing contaminants mixed in the air through a water spray unit and a filter unit will be explained in more detail.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the contaminant mixed in the air introduced into the main body (10) through the inlet (16a) may consist of a plurality of contaminant particles (P). Although the diameters of each of the plurality of contaminant particles (P) may be different from each other, for the convenience of explanation, it is assumed that each of the contaminant particles (P) has a first diameter (D1) of the same size.

[0077] As air passes through the filter section (30), contaminants mixed in the air can be captured by the filter section (30). Specifically, air can pass through the mesh holes (32b) of the filter (32), and contaminants mixed in the air can be captured by the mesh members (32a) of the filter (32).

[0078] However, if the diameter (D2) of the mesh hole (32b) is larger than the diameter (D1) of each of the multiple contaminant particles (P), some of the multiple contaminant particles (P) may pass through the mesh hole (32b) along with the air. Since an increase in the number of contaminant particles (P) passing through the mesh hole (32b) corresponds to a decrease in the contaminant collection efficiency of the filter unit (30), it is necessary to reduce the number of contaminant particles (P) passing through the mesh hole (32b) in order to increase the contaminant collection efficiency.

[0079] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the water spraying unit (40) can increase the size of each of the plurality of contaminant particles (P) mixed in the air by spraying water into the air. Specifically, by the water spraying unit (40) spraying water into the air, each of the plurality of contaminant particles (P) can be captured by the water and combined with water particles, and accordingly, the size of the plurality of contaminant particles (P) can be increased. For example, after each of the plurality of contaminant particles (P) combines with water particles, it can have a second diameter (D3) larger than the first diameter (D1).

[0080] After each of the multiple contaminant particles (P) combines with water particles, the diameter (D3) of each of the multiple contaminant particles (P) may be larger than the diameter (D2) of the mesh hole (32b). Accordingly, the passage of each of the multiple contaminant particles (P) through the mesh hole (32b) may be more restricted, and the number of contaminant particles (P) passing through the mesh hole (32b) may be reduced. In other words, the contaminant capture efficiency of the filter unit (30) may be increased.

[0081] In addition, as described above, the water spraying unit (40) may include an electrostatic spraying device (41). The water sprayed through the electrostatic spraying device (41) may contain OH radical particles.

[0082] OH radical particles can act as oxidizing agents and react with organic compounds. For example, OH radical particles can combine with odor particles mixed in the air to decompose and remove the odor particles. That is, by spraying water into the air through the electrostatic spray device (41), odor particles mixed in the air can be decomposed and removed.

[0083] According to the concept of the present disclosure, by sequentially arranging a water spray unit (40) and a filter unit (30) on the path of air introduced into the main body (10) through an inlet (16a), the efficiency of collecting contaminants by the filter unit (30) can be increased, while odor particles mixed in the air can be effectively decomposed and removed.

[0084] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the cooking device (1) may include a condenser (50). The condenser (50) may be provided to cool the air flowing from the inlet (16a) to the outlet (16b). Specifically, the condenser (50) may be provided to cool the air that has passed through the filter section (30). By cooling the water vapor mixed in the air with the condenser (50), the water vapor mixed in the air can be condensed.

[0085] The condensation unit (50) can condense water particles or contaminant particles (P) combined with water particles that pass through the filter unit (30) without being captured by the filter unit (30). For example, even after the contaminant particles (P) are combined with water particles, if the diameter of the contaminant particles (P) is smaller than the diameter (D2) of the mesh hole (32b), the contaminant particles (P) combined with water particles can pass through the filter unit (30).

[0086] Contaminant particles (P) combined with water particles can be condensed on the condensation unit (50). Accordingly, contaminant particles (P) mixed in the air passing through the filter unit (30) can be collected in the condensation unit (50).

[0087] That is, the cooking device (1) can primarily collect contaminants mixed in the air through the water spray unit (40) and the filter unit (30), and secondarily collect them through the condensation unit (50). Through this configuration, the cooking device (1) can effectively remove contaminants that may occur during cooking.

[0088] The condenser (50) can be placed inside the main body (10). Specifically, the condenser (50) can be placed below the case (15).

[0089] The condenser (50) may be positioned downstream of the filter (30) in the airflow within the main body (10). In other words, the filter (30) may be positioned upstream of the condenser (50) in the airflow within the main body (10).

[0090] For example, the condenser (50) may include a thermoelectric element (51). The thermoelectric element (51) may be a semiconductor device that converts thermal energy into electrical energy using the thermoelectric effect, and may be referred to as a thermoelectric semiconductor device, a Peltier device, etc. The thermoelectric element (51) may have a thin cuboid shape.

[0091] The thermoelectric element (51) may include a heating surface (51a) and a cooling surface (51b). The heating surface (51a) may be provided on one side of the thermoelectric element (51), and the cooling surface (51b) may be provided on the other side opposite to the one side of the thermoelectric element (51). When current is applied to the thermoelectric element (51), a heating action may occur on the heating surface (51a) and an endothermic action may occur on the cooling surface (51b).

[0092] The cooling surface (51b) may be provided to cool the air passing through the filter section (30). By cooling the air through the cooling surface (51b), water vapor mixed in the air may be condensed on the cooling surface (51b). That is, the condensation section (50) may cool the air passing through the filter section (30) through the cooling surface (51b).

[0093] The cooling surface (51b) may be provided at an angle with respect to the airflow path through which air passes through the filter section (30). Specifically, the cooling surface (51b) may be provided at an angle such that, with respect to the direction of airflow through the filter section (30), the lower end of the cooling surface (51b) is located further away from the filter section (30) than the upper end of the cooling surface (51b). Through this configuration, the amount of air in contact with the cooling surface (51b) among the air passing through the filter section (30) can be increased, while preventing the cooling surface (51b) from acting as a resistance to the airflow.

[0094] The cooking device (1) may include a water storage unit (60). The water storage unit (60) may be provided to store water. The water storage unit (60) may form a receiving space for storing water. The upper surface of the water storage unit (60) may be open.

[0095] The water storage unit (60) may be placed inside the main body (10). Specifically, the water storage unit (60) may be placed in the second body (12) of the main body (10). The water storage unit (60) may be placed below the case (15). The water storage unit (60) may be placed below the condenser (50).

[0096] The water storage unit (60) may be positioned downstream of the filter unit (30) in the airflow within the main body (10). In other words, the filter unit (30) may be positioned upstream of the water storage unit (60) in the airflow within the main body (10).

[0097] The water storage unit (60) may be provided to collect water condensed in the condensation unit (50). In other words, the water storage unit (60) may be provided to collect water condensed on the cooling surface (51b) of the condensation unit (50). Additionally, the water storage unit (60) may collect contaminants falling downward from the condensation unit (50) after being collected in the condensation unit (50).

[0098] When water is stored in the water storage unit (60), air passing through the filter unit (30) can come into contact with the water stored in the water storage unit (60). At this time, if contaminants mixed in the air come into contact with the water stored in the water storage unit (60), the contaminants can be removed as they flow into the water stored in the water storage unit (60).

[0099] That is, the cooking device (1) can capture contaminants mixed in the air through the water spraying unit (40), filter unit (30), and condensing unit (50), and additionally remove contaminants mixed in the air through the water storage unit (60). With this configuration, the cooking device (1) can more effectively remove contaminants that may occur during cooking.

[0100] The main body (10) may include a protrusion (17) that protrudes from the second plate portion (15b) toward the water storage portion (60). The protrusion (17) may protrude downward from the second plate portion (15b). In other words, the protrusion (17) may protrude downward from the lower surface of the case (15).

[0101] A passageway can be formed between the water stored in the water storage unit (60) and the second plate unit (15b) through which air passing through the filter unit (30) can flow. Air flowing along the passageway can pass between the water stored in the water storage unit (60) and the protrusion (17). Since the space between the water stored in the water storage unit (60) and the protrusion (17) is provided to be relatively narrower than the space between the water stored in the water storage unit (60) and the second plate unit (15b), the amount of air coming into contact with the water stored in the water storage unit (60) can increase as the air passes through the space between the water stored in the water storage unit (60) and the protrusion (17).

[0102] As described above, when air comes into contact with water stored in the water storage unit (60), contaminants mixed in the air can be introduced into the water stored in the water storage unit (60), and contaminants mixed in the air can be removed. The protrusion (17) can increase the amount of air that comes into contact with water stored in the water storage unit (60) among the air that has passed through the filter unit (30), thereby allowing contaminants mixed in the air to be removed more effectively.

[0103] The protrusion (17) can form an inclined surface (17a). The inclined surface (17a) may be a surface facing approximately the filter section (30). That is, the inclined surface (17a) may be a surface that is closer to the filter section (30) than the opposite side of the inclined surface (17a).

[0104] The inclined surface (17a) may extend from the second plate portion (15b) to the bottom of the protrusion (17). In other words, the inclined surface (17a) may extend from the bottom surface of the case (15) to the bottom of the protrusion (17). The inclined surface (17a) may be provided to be inclined with respect to the second plate portion (15b) or the bottom surface of the case (15).

[0105] The protrusion (17) can guide air that has passed through the filter section (30) through the inclined surface (17a) into the space between the water stored in the water storage section (60) and the protrusion (17).

[0106] A condensation section (50) may be provided in the protrusion (17). That is, the condensation section (50) may be mounted on the protrusion (17).

[0107] The cooling surface (51b) of the condenser (50) can be provided on the inclined surface (17a) of the protrusion (17). Accordingly, the cooling surface (51b) of the condenser (50) can be provided at an angle to the lower surface of the second plate portion (15b) or the case (15).

[0108] Additionally, as the cooling surface (51b) of the condenser (50) is provided on the inclined surface (17a) of the protrusion (17), the cooling surface (51b) may be inclined such that, with respect to the direction of air flow through the filter section (30), the lower part of the cooling surface (51b) is located further away from the filter section (30) than the upper part of the cooling surface (51b).

[0109] The cooking device (1) may include a blower (70). The blower (70) can form an airflow inside the main body (10). The blower (70) can introduce air into the main body (10) through the inlet (16a) or discharge air to the outside of the main body (10) through the outlet (16b).

[0110] The blower (70) may be placed inside the main body (10). Specifically, the blower (70) may be placed in the second body (12) of the main body (10). The blower (70) may be placed on the path through which air flows after passing through the condenser (50).

[0111] That is, based on the direction of air flow from the inlet (16a) to the outlet (16b), the water spray unit (40), the filter unit (30), the condenser unit (50), and the blower (70) can be arranged sequentially inside the main body (10).

[0112] The cooking device (1) may include an auxiliary filter (80). The auxiliary filter (80) may be placed in the first body (11) of the main body (10). Specifically, the auxiliary filter (80) may be placed below the outlet (16b). The auxiliary filter (80) may be provided to filter or deodorize air discharged from the main body (10) through the outlet (16b). In other words, the auxiliary filter (80) may be provided to filter or deodorize air passing through the blower (70). However, the auxiliary filter (80) may be omitted.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 2, the top cover (20) may be detachable from the main body (10). That is, the top cover (20) may be detachably connected to the upper side of the main body (10).

[0114] The top plate (13) may be detachable from the first body (11) and the second body (12). That is, the top plate (13) may be detachably connected to the upper side of the first body (11).

[0115] The first body (11) and the second body (12) may be separable from each other. That is, the first body (11) and the second body (12) may be separably coupled to each other. For example, the first body (11) may be separably coupled to the upper side of the second body (12), and the second body (12) may be separably coupled to the lower side of the first body (11).

[0116] Each of the filter section (30), water storage section (60), and blower (70) may be detachable from the second body (12). That is, each of the filter section (30), water storage section (60), and blower (70) may be detachably connected to the second body (12).

[0117] The auxiliary filter (80) may be detachable from the first body (11). That is, the auxiliary filter (80) may be detachably coupled to the second body (12).

[0118] According to the concept of the present disclosure, various parts constituting the cooking device (1) may be separable from one another. Accordingly, it may be easier to manage components such as the filter section (30), water storage section (60), blower (70), and auxiliary filter (80).

[0119] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating the internal flow path of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 5, the cooking device (1) may form a circulation channel (C). Air flowing along the circulation channel (C) may be introduced into the main body (10) through an inlet (16a) from around the cooking area (10a), then discharged outside the main body (10) through an outlet (16b) and return to the cooking area (10a). To this end, a space through which air can flow may be formed inside the main body (10), and configurations may be provided outside the main body (10) to guide the air discharged from the outlet (16b) back to the inlet (16a).

[0121] The main body (10) may include a first side wall (10b) provided on the lower side of the inlet (16a). The first side wall (10b) of the main body (10) and the side wall portion (15c) of the case (15) may be spaced apart from each other. Accordingly, a space through which air can flow may be formed between the first side wall (10b) of the main body (10) and the side wall portion (15c) of the case (15). For example, air passing through the inlet (16a) may flow into the space between the first side wall (10b) of the main body (10) and the side wall portion (15c) of the case (15).

[0122] A water spray unit (40) may be provided in the space between the first side wall (10b) of the main body (10) and the side wall portion (15c) of the case (15). Through this configuration, contaminant particles (P) mixed in the air that have entered the space between the first side wall (10b) of the main body (10) and the side wall portion (15c) of the case (15) can combine with water particles sprayed by the water spray unit (40).

[0123] Additionally, a filter section (30) may be provided at the lower side of the space between the first side wall (10b) of the main body (10) and the side wall section (15c) of the case (15). Through this configuration, air passing through the space between the first side wall (10b) of the main body (10) and the side wall section (15c) of the case (15) can be filtered by passing through the filter section (30).

[0124] The main body (10) may include a bottom (10c) provided at the bottom of the main body (10). A water storage unit (60) may be disposed on the bottom (10c) of the main body (10). Water may be stored in the water storage unit (60).

[0125] The water storage unit (60) and the second plate unit (15b) of the case (15) may be spaced apart from each other. Specifically, the water storage unit (60) may be positioned spaced downward from the second plate unit (15b) of the case (15), and the second plate unit (15b) of the case (15) may be positioned spaced upward from the water storage unit (60). Accordingly, a space through which air can flow may be formed between the water storage unit (60) and the second plate unit (15b) of the case (15). For example, air passing through the filter unit (30) may flow into the space between the water storage unit (60) and the second plate unit (15b) of the case (15).

[0126] A condensation unit (50) may be provided in the space between the water storage unit (60) and the second plate unit (15b) of the case (15). Accordingly, water particles mixed in the air or contaminant particles (P) combined with water particles that have flowed into the space between the water storage unit (60) and the second plate unit (15b) of the case (15) can be condensed by the condensation unit (50).

[0127] Additionally, as described above, the main body (10) may include a protrusion (17) protruding from the second plate portion (15b). Accordingly, air passing through the condensation portion (50) can flow into the space between the water storage portion (60) and the protrusion (17).

[0128] The main body (10) may include a second side wall (10d) provided below the outlet (16b). The second side wall (10d) of the main body (10) and the side wall portion (15c) of the case (15) may be spaced apart from each other. Accordingly, a space through which air can flow may be formed between the second side wall (10d) of the main body (10) and the side wall portion (15c) of the case (15). For example, air passing through the space between the water storage portion (60) and the protrusion (17) may flow into the space between the second side wall (10d) of the main body (10) and the side wall portion (15c) of the case (15). Air flowing into the space between the second side wall (10d) of the main body (10) and the side wall portion (15c) of the case (15) may be discharged to the outside of the main body (10) through the outlet (16b).

[0129] An auxiliary filter (80) may be provided in the space between the second side wall (10d) of the main body (10) and the side wall portion (15c) of the case (15). Through this configuration, air flowing into the space between the second side wall (10d) of the main body (10) and the side wall portion (15c) of the case (15) may be filtered or deodorized.

[0130] Additionally, a blower (70) may be provided at the lower side of the space between the second side wall (10d) of the main body (10) and the side wall portion (15c) of the case (15). Through this configuration, air passing through the space between the water storage portion (60) and the protrusion (17) can be introduced into the space between the second side wall (10d) of the main body (10) and the side wall portion (15c) of the case (15) via the blower (70).

[0131] The top cover (20) may include a first guide surface (23). The first guide surface (23) may be provided to guide air flowing into the first separation space (S1) to the inlet (16a). For example, the first guide surface (23) may guide air flowing into the first separation space (S1) from the periphery of the cooking area (10a) to the inlet (16a). Air guided by the first guide surface (23) and passing through the inlet (16a) may flow into the interior of the main body (10).

[0132] The first guide surface (23) may be provided on the inlet cover portion (21). Specifically, the first guide surface (23) may be on the lower surface of the inlet cover portion (21). The first guide surface (23) may be provided on the upper side of the inlet (16a).

[0133] The top cover (20) may include a second guide surface (24). The second guide surface (24) may be provided to guide air flowing into the second spaced space (S2) to the first spaced space (S1). In other words, the second guide surface (24) may be provided to guide air flowing into the second spaced space (S2) around the cooking area (10a). For example, the second guide surface (24) may guide air discharged from inside the main body (10) through the outlet (16b) into the second spaced space (S2) around the cooking area (10a). Air flowing around the cooking area (10a) guided by the second guide surface (24) may flow into the first spaced space (S1).

[0134] The second guide surface (24) may be provided on the discharge port cover portion (22). Specifically, the second guide surface (24) may be on the lower surface of the discharge port cover portion (22). The second guide surface (24) may be provided on the upper side of the discharge port (16b).

[0135] According to the concept of the present disclosure, a cooking device (1) can form a circulation path (C) through the above-described configurations and structures. Contaminants that may be generated during the food cooking process can flow along the circulation path (C) along with air. Configurations such as a water spraying section (40), a filter section (30), a condensation section (50), a protrusion (17), a water storage section (60), and an auxiliary filter (80) are arranged on the circulation path (C), so that contaminants can be removed as they flow along the circulation path (C) along with air. In particular, since contaminants can continuously flow along the circulation path (C) along with air, the efficiency of contaminant removal can be increased.

[0136] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the cooking device (1) can perform a cooking function through a heating source (14), and can also perform a contaminant removal function by forming a circulation path (C) that passes through components such as a water spraying section (40), a filter section (30), a condensation section (50), a protrusion (17), a water storage section (60), and an auxiliary filter (80), thereby removing contaminants such as oil vapor and odor particles that may occur during cooking. That is, the cooking device (1) may not require a separate configuration for removing contaminants that may occur during cooking. Therefore, the cooking device (1) can be installed in a fixed position in a designated space, and can also be provided in a portable manner.

[0137] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a cooking device according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view along the line B-B' indicated in FIG. 6.

[0138] Referring to FIGS. 1, FIGS. 3, FIGS. 6 and FIGS. 7, the top cover (20) may be configured to be movable in the up and down direction. For example, the top cover (20) may be configured to be movable in the up and down direction through a separate driving device. For example, the top cover (20) may be configured to be movable in the up and down direction by operation by a user.

[0139] The top cover (20) may be located at a first position (P1) that forms a first separation space (S1) and a second separation space (S2). That is, when the top cover (20) is located at the first position (P1), the inlet cover portion (21) and the outlet cover portion (22) may each be positioned at a location spaced upward from the inlet (16a) and the outlet (16b), respectively. Accordingly, the inlet (16a) and the outlet (16b) may each be opened.

[0140] The top cover (20) may be in a second position (P2) that does not form a first separation space (S1) and a second separation space (S2). That is, when the top cover (20) is in the second position (P2), the inlet cover part (21) can close the inlet (16a), and the outlet cover part (22) can close the outlet (16b).

[0141] The top cover (20) may be movable in the vertical direction between a first position (P1) and a second position (P2). For example, when cooking food using the cooking device (1), the top cover (20) may move to the first position (P1) to open the inlet (16a) and the outlet (16b), respectively. For example, when not cooking food using the cooking device (1), the top cover (20) may move to the second position (P2) to close the inlet (16a) and the outlet (16b), respectively. Accordingly, foreign substances may be prevented from entering the interior of the main body (10) through the inlet (16a) and the outlet (16b), and the aesthetics of the cooking device (1) may be improved.

[0142] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a cooking device according to one embodiment.

[0143] Hereinafter, a cooking device (1') according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. 8. In describing the cooking device (1'), the same reference numerals are assigned to components that are substantially identical to those shown in FIG. 1 to 7, and detailed descriptions may be omitted.

[0144] Referring to FIG. 8, the cooking device (1') may include a filter section (30'). The filter section (30') may be placed inside the main body (10). Specifically, the filter section (30') may be placed in the second body (12) of the main body (10). The filter section (30') may be placed on the airflow path through which air passes through the inlet (16a).

[0145] For example, the filter section (30') may be provided as a single unit. The filter section (30') may be positioned at an angle with respect to the bottom (10c) of the main body (10). Specifically, the upper part of the filter section (30') may come into contact with the case (15), and the lower part of the filter section (30') may come into contact with the bottom (10c) of the main body (10).

[0146] However, the arrangement method of the filter section (30') is not limited to this. As long as the filter section (30') is placed in the path where the air passing through the inlet (16a) flows so as to filter all the air passing through the inlet (16a), there are no additional restrictions on the arrangement method of the filter section (30').

[0147] A cooking device (1) according to one embodiment comprises a main body (10) having a cooking area (10a) and including an inlet (16a) for air to be introduced, a filter unit (30) for filtering air introduced into the main body (10) through the inlet (16a), a water spray unit (40) disposed upstream of the filter unit (30) in the airflow within the main body (10) and spraying water so that particles (P) mixed in the air directed toward the filter unit (30) are captured in the water, and a condensation unit (50) disposed downstream of the filter unit (30) in the airflow within the main body (10) and cooling the air so that water vapor mixed in the air passing through the filter unit (30) is condensed.

[0148] The above cooking device (1) is provided to store water and may further include a water storage unit (60) positioned below the condensation unit (50) to collect water condensed in the condensation unit (50).

[0149] The condenser (50) may include a cooling surface (51b) provided to cool the air passing through the filter section (30). The cooling surface (51b) may be inclined such that, with respect to the direction of flow of the air passing through the filter section (30), the lower end of the cooling surface (51b) is located further away from the filter section (30) than the upper end of the cooling surface (51b).

[0150] The above main body (10) may further include a plate portion (15b) spaced upward from the water storage portion (60), and a protrusion portion (17) that protrudes from the plate portion (15b) toward the water storage portion (60) and is provided with the condensation portion (50).

[0151] The above main body (10) may further include an outlet (16b) provided to discharge air.

[0152] The inlet (16a) may be provided on one side of the cooking area (10a). The outlet (16b) may be provided on the other side opposite to the one side of the cooking area (10a).

[0153] Each of the above inlet (16a) and the above outlet (16b) can be opened in the up and down direction.

[0154] The above cooking device (1) may further include a top cover (20) comprising an inlet cover portion (21) provided to cover the inlet (16a) and an outlet cover portion (22) provided to cover the outlet (16b). A first gap space (S1) may be formed between the inlet cover portion (21) and the inlet (16a) to allow air around the cooking area (10a) to flow in. A second gap space (S2) may be formed between the outlet cover portion (22) and the outlet (16b) to allow air inside the main body (10) to flow in.

[0155] The top cover (20) may be configured to be movable in the vertical direction between a first position (P1) that forms the first spaced-out space (S1) and the second spaced-out space (S2), and a second position (P2) that closes the inlet (16a) through the inlet cover portion (21) and closes the outlet (16b) through the outlet cover portion (22).

[0156] The top cover (20) may further include a first guide surface (23) provided on the inlet cover portion (21) to guide air flowing into the first spaced space (S1) to the inlet (16a), and a second guide surface (24) provided on the outlet cover portion (22) to guide air flowing into the second spaced space (S2) to the first spaced space (S1).

[0157] The above cooking device (1) may further include a blower (70) which is positioned inside the main body (10) and is configured to introduce air through the inlet (16a) or discharge air through the outlet (16b).

[0158] The blower (70) can be placed in the path where air passing through the condenser (50) flows.

[0159] The above main body (10) may further include a first body (11) in which a heating source (14) is disposed inside, and a second body (12) in which the filter unit (30) and the water storage unit (60) are disposed. The first body (11) and the second body (12) may be separably coupled to each other.

[0160] The above condensation unit (50) may include a thermoelectric element (51) comprising a heating surface (51a) and a cooling surface (51b). The cooling surface (51b) may be provided to cool the air that has passed through the filter unit (30).

[0161] The above water spraying unit (40) may include an electrostatic spraying device (41).

[0162] A cooking device (1) according to one embodiment comprises a case (15) in which a heating source (14) is disposed inside, a main body (10) including an inlet (16a) provided on one side of the case (15) and an outlet (16b) provided on the other side opposite to the one side of the case (15), a water spraying unit (40) disposed below the inlet (16a) and provided to spray water into the air flowing from the inlet (16a), and a condensing unit (50) disposed below the case (15) and provided to cool the air so that water vapor mixed in the air flowing from the inlet (16a) to the outlet (16b) is condensed. The condensing unit (50) includes a cooling surface (51b) provided at an angle with respect to the lower surface (15b) of the case (15).

[0163] The main body (10) may further include a protrusion (17) that protrudes downward from the lower surface (15b) of the case (15), extending from the lower surface (15b) of the case (15) to the bottom of the protrusion (17), and forming an inclined surface (17a) that is inclined with respect to the lower surface (15b) of the case (15). The cooling surface (51b) may be provided on the inclined surface (17a).

[0164] The above cooking device (1) may further include a water storage unit (60) positioned below the condensation unit (50) to collect water condensed in the condensation unit (50).

[0165] The above cooking device (1) may further include a top cover (20) comprising an inlet cover portion (21) provided to cover an inlet (16a) and an outlet cover portion (22) provided to cover an outlet (16b). The top cover (20) may be provided to be movable in the vertical direction.

[0166] The above main body (10) may further include a first body (11) on which the case (15) is provided, and a second body (12) detachably coupled to the lower side of the first body (11).

[0167] According to the concept of the present disclosure, a cooking appliance can remove contaminants generated during cooking through components such as a water spraying unit, a filter unit, a condensing unit, and a water storage unit.

[0168] According to the concept of the present disclosure, a cooking appliance may form a circulation path that draws air around a cooking area into the interior of a main body and discharges the air drawn into the interior of the main body back around the cooking area. Additionally, components such as a water spraying unit, a filter unit, a condensation unit, and a water storage unit may be arranged on the circulation path. The cooking appliance may remove contaminants mixed in the air by allowing air containing contaminants to flow through the circulation path.

[0169] Specific embodiments have been illustrated and described above. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and those skilled in the art may make various modifications without departing from the essence of the technical concept of the invention as described in the following claims.

Claims

1. A main body having a cooking area, comprising an inlet provided for air to be introduced; A filter section provided to filter air flowing into the interior of the main body through the inlet; A water spraying unit positioned upstream of the filter unit in the airflow within the main body and spraying water so that particles mixed in the air directed toward the filter unit are captured in the water; and A cooking appliance comprising: a condensation unit positioned downstream of the filter unit in the airflow within the main body, and cooling the air so that water vapor mixed in the air passing through the filter unit is condensed.

2. In Paragraph 1, A cooking appliance further comprising: a water storage unit arranged to store water and positioned below the condenser to collect water condensed in the condenser.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above condensation unit is, It includes a cooling surface provided to cool the air passing through the filter section above, and The above cooling surface is, A cooking device configured to be inclined such that, based on the direction of air flow passing through the filter section, the lower part of the cooling surface is located further away from the filter section than the upper part of the cooling surface.

4. In Paragraph 2, The above main body is, A plate portion spaced upward from the above water storage portion; and A cooking appliance further comprising a protrusion that protrudes from the plate portion toward the water storage portion and is provided with the condensation portion.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above main body is a cooking appliance further comprising an exhaust port provided to discharge air.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above inlet is provided on one side of the cooking area, and The above outlet is a cooking device provided on the other side opposite to one side of the cooking area.

7. In Paragraph 5, A cooking device in which the inlet and the outlet, respectively, are each opened in the vertical direction.

8. In Paragraph 5, A top cover further comprising an inlet cover portion provided to cover the inlet and an outlet cover portion provided to cover the outlet; and A first gap is formed between the inlet cover and the inlet so that air around the cooking area is introduced, and A cooking appliance in which a second space is formed between the above-mentioned discharge cover and the above-mentioned discharge port to allow air inside the main body to flow in.

9. In Paragraph 8, A cooking device wherein the top cover is configured to be movable in an up-and-down direction between a first position forming the first gap space and the second gap space, and a second position closing the inlet through the inlet cover portion and closing the outlet through the outlet cover portion.

10. In Paragraph 8, The above top cover is, A first guide surface provided in the inlet cover portion and configured to guide air flowing into the first spaced-out space to the inlet; and A cooking appliance further comprising a second guide surface provided in the above-mentioned outlet cover portion and configured to guide air flowing into the second spaced space into the first spaced space.

11. In Paragraph 5, A cooking appliance further comprising a blower disposed inside the main body and configured to introduce air through the inlet or discharge air through the outlet.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above blower is a cooking appliance placed in the path where air passing through the condenser flows.

13. In Paragraph 2, The above main body is, A first body in which a heating source is disposed inside; and It further includes a second body in which the filter unit and the water storage unit are disposed, The above-mentioned first body and the above-mentioned second body are cooking devices that can be separatedly combined with each other.

14. In Paragraph 1, The above condenser includes a thermoelectric element comprising a heating surface and a cooling surface, and The above cooling surface is a cooking appliance configured to cool the air that has passed through the above filter section.

15. In Paragraph 1, The above water spraying unit is a cooking appliance including an electrostatic spray device.

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