COOKING APPARATUS

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of International Application No. PCT/KR2025/013952 filed Sep. 9, 2025, and claims foreign priority to Korean Application No. 10-2024-0156381 filed Nov. 6, 2024, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a cooking apparatus.

Background Art

Cooking apparatuses are apparatuses for cooking by heating a cooking object such as food, and refer to apparatuses capable of providing various functions related to cooking, such as heating, thawing, drying, and sterilization of a cooking object. Cooking apparatuses include, for example, an oven such as a gas oven and an electric oven, a microwave heating device (hereinafter referred to as a microwave oven), a gas range, an electric range, a hood combined microwave oven (Over the Range; OTR), a gas grill or an electric grill, and the like.

Ovens are apparatuses that cook food by directly transferring heat to the food through a heating source such as a heater or by heating the inside of a cooking chamber. Microwave ovens are apparatuses that cook food by frictional heat generated between molecules by disturbing a molecular arrangement of the food using high frequency as a heating source.

A cooking apparatus includes a cooking chamber for cooking food and a door for opening and closing the cooking chamber.

DISCLOSURE

Technical Problem

The present disclosure is directed to providing a cooking apparatus with improved ease of use.

The present disclosure is directed to providing a cooking apparatus having an improved door.

The present disclosure is directed to providing a cooking apparatus having a foldable door.

The present disclosure is directed to providing a cooking apparatus having a door that is easy to maintain.

The present disclosure is directed to providing a cooking apparatus capable of preventing a gap from forming between a cooking chamber and a door.

The present disclosure is directed to providing a cooking apparatus capable of preventing accidents such as a finger jam of a user.

Technical tasks to be achieved in the present disclosure are not limited to the technical tasks mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

Technical Solution

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a cooking apparatus may include a main body including a cooking chamber, a door that is movable between a first state in which the cooking chamber is closed by the door, and a second state in which the cooking chamber is opened by the door, wherein the door includes a middle part, an upper part that is foldable relative to the middle part, and a lower part that is foldable relative to the middle part, and a latch device. The latch device may include a first locking member on the middle part of the door, and a second locking member on the main body and including an inclined portion. When the door is in the first state, the upper part and the lower part may be unfolded relative to the middle part. When the door is in the second state, the upper part and the lower part may be folded relative to the middle part. As the door moves from the second state to the first state, the middle part may move toward the cooking chamber and the upper part and the lower part may become unfolded relative to the middle part, and, as the middle part moves toward the cooking chamber the first locking member may contact and move along the inclined portion to become engaged with the second locking member when the door is at the first state, so that the door is thereby locked to the main body.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a cooking apparatus may include a main body including a cooking chamber, a door configured to be switchable between a first state of closing the cooking chamber and a second state of being folded to open the cooking chamber, a guide rail mounted on the main body and extending in a vertical direction, a guide protrusion mounted on the door and configured to be movable along the guide rail, and a stopper mounted on the guide rail. The stopper may support the guide protrusion to limit the guide protrusion from moving downward while the door is in the second state.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure with a door closed.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure with the door opened.

FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure with the door opened.

FIG. 4 illustrates that the door of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is separated from a main body.

FIG. 5 illustrates a case in which the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is in a first state.

FIG. 6 illustrates a case in which the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is in a second state.

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of a guide protrusion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a cut-away view illustrating a portion of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates that the guide protrusion is separated from a guide rail when the door is in the first state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates that the guide protrusion is separated from the guide rail when the door is in the second state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of the door when the door is in the first state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of the door when the door is in the second state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a first locking member of a latch device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example of a second locking member of the latch device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 15 schematically illustrates a state before the first locking member is engaged with the second locking member in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 schematically illustrates that the first locking member is being engaged with the second locking member in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 schematically illustrates a state in which the first locking member is engaged with the second locking member in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 schematically illustrates a state in which the first locking member engaged with the second locking member is pressed by a pressing member in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 19 illustrates an example of the first locking member of the latch device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 20 illustrates an example of the second locking member of the latch device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 21 schematically illustrates a state before the first locking member is engaged with the second locking member in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 22 schematically illustrates that the first locking member is being engaged with the second locking member in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 23 schematically illustrates a state in which the first locking member is engaged with the second locking member in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 24 is a rear perspective view of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a door locking device that operates to open the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 26 is a side cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the door locking device that operates to open the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 27 is a view schematically illustrating that a latch protrusion of the second locking member is rotated by the door locking device to open the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view schematically illustrating the door locking device that operates to lock the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 29 is a side cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the door locking device that operates to lock the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 30 is a view schematically illustrating that the rotation of the latch protrusion of the second locking member is limited to lock the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 31 is a rear perspective view of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 32 is an exploded view of a door opening/closing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 33 schematically illustrates a state before the door opening/closing device opens the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 34 schematically illustrates that the door opening/closing device is opening the door in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 35 schematically illustrates a state in which the door opening/closing device opens the door in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 36 is a control block diagram of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

MODE OF THE DISCLOSURE

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 substitutes of the embodiments.

In connection with the explanation of the drawings, like reference numbers may be used for like or related components.

The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one item or a plurality of items, unless the relevant context clearly dictates otherwise.

In the present disclosure, each of 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 one of the phrases, or all possible combinations thereof.

The term “and/or” includes any combination of a plurality of related components or any one of a plurality of related components.

The terms “unit,” “module,” and “member” may be implemented as hardware or software. Depending on embodiments, a plurality of “units,” “modules,” and “members” may be implemented as one component, or one “unit,” “module,” and “member”may include a plurality of components.

Terms such as “first,” “second,” “primary,” and “secondary” may simply be used to distinguish a given component from other corresponding components, and do not limit the corresponding components in any other aspect (e.g., importance or order).

When any (e.g., a first) component is referred to as being “coupled” or “connected” to another (e.g., a second) component with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicatively,” this means that the any component may be connected to the other component directly (e.g., by wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

The terms “comprises” and “has” are intended to indicate that there are features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the present disclosure, and do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

When any component is referred to as being “connected,” “coupled,” “supported” or “in contact” with another component, this includes a case in which the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact with each other through a third component as well as directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact with each other.

When any component is referred to as being located “on” or “above” another component, this includes not only a case in which any component is in contact with another component but also a case in which another component is present between the two components.

The terms “up-down direction,” “front,” “rear,” “upper,” “lower,” etc., used in the description below are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, a direction to which a door 30 of a cooking apparatus 1 directs may be defined as front (+X direction), and the opposite direction may be defined as rear (−X direction).

Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure with a door closed. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure with the door opened. FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure with the door opened.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a cooking apparatus 1 may include a main body 10. The main body 10 may include a cooking chamber 20. The main body 10 may form the cooking chamber 20. Various components may be mounted and/or accommodated in the main body 10.

The main body 10 may include an outer case 11 and an inner case 12.

The outer case 11 may be disposed outside the inner case 12. The outer case 11 may be disposed to surround an upper surface, lower surface, rear surface, left surface, right surface, etc., of the inner case 12 from the outside. The outer case 11 may form most of an outer appearance of the cooking apparatus 1.

The inner case 12 may be disposed inside the outer case 11. The inner case 12 may be accommodated inside the outer case 11. The cooking chamber 20 may be formed inside the inner case 12.

The inner case 12 may be coated to prevent corrosion caused by condensation water that may occur in a process of condensing water vapor or moisture contained in food itself.

An insulator may be provided between the outer case 11 and the inner case 12 to delay heat transfer from the inside of the cooking chamber 20 to the outside.

The main body 10 may include a front frame 13. The front frame 13 may be provided on a front portion of the main body 10. The front frame 13 may form at least a portion of a front surface of the main body 10. The front frame 13 may cover at least a portion of a space between the outer case 11 and the inner case 12.

The cooking apparatus 1 may include the cooking chamber 20. The cooking chamber 20 may be provided to accommodate food requiring cooking. Food accommodated in the cooking chamber 20 may be cooked. The cooking chamber 20 may be formed such that the front is open to allow food to be put into and taken out. As an example, the inner case 12 may be formed to have a substantially open box shape at the front.

The cooking apparatus 1 may include a tray 22 (see FIG. 3). The tray 22 may be configured to place a cooking object thereon. Food or a container for holding food may be seated on the tray 22. The tray 22 may be inserted into the cooking chamber 20 and may be withdrawn from the cooking chamber 20.

The cooking apparatus 1 may include a supporter 21 provided to support the tray 22. The tray 22 may be detachably mounted on the supporter 21. The tray 22 may be disposed in the cooking chamber 20 by being supported on the supporter 21. The supporter 21 may be formed on a side wall of the inner case 12. For example, supporter 21 may protrude from a left inner wall and/or a right inner wall of the inner case 12.

The supporter 21 may be provided in plurality. The plurality of supporters 21 may be arranged to be spaced apart in a vertical direction (Z direction). The tray 22 may be supported by any one of the plurality of supporters 21, and a position of the tray 22 may be determined depending on a position of the supporter 21 supporting the tray 22.

The cooking apparatus 1 may include a heating device (not shown) configured to provide heat to the inside of the cooking chamber 20. As an example, the heating device (not shown) may include a gas burner provided to generate heat by burning gaseous fuel. However, the type of heating device for heating food inside the cooking chamber 20 is not limited, and the cooking apparatus 1 may include a magnetron (not shown) to emit electromagnetic waves into the cooking chamber 20 to generate heat by rotation of water molecules inside food.

The cooking apparatus 1 may include a fan (not shown) configured to circulate air inside the cooking chamber 20. The fan may circulate air inside the cooking chamber 20 by rotating. As the air inside the cooking chamber 20 is circulated by the fan, heat generated by the heating device may be evenly transferred inside the cooking chamber 20. Accordingly, food inside cooking room 20 may be evenly heated. As an example, the fan may be disposed on a rear wall of inner case 12, but a position of the fan is not limited to the example described above.

The cooking apparatus 1 may include a user interface 60. The user interface 60 may be configured to obtain user input or output information about the cooking apparatus 1. The user interface 60 may include an input interface 61 for receiving user input to control the cooking apparatus 1. For example, the input interface 61 may include a button and/or a knob. The user interface 60 may include an output interface 62 for displaying a status of the cooking apparatus 1 to a user. For example, the output interface 62 may include a display.

The cooking apparatus 1 may include a cooktop 50. The cooktop 50 may be configured to seat a cooking container containing food and to heat the seated cooking container. The cooktop 50 may be mounted on the main body 10. In detail, the cooktop 50 may be mounted on an upper side of the main body 10. The cooktop 50 may form an upper surface of the cooking apparatus 1. As an example, the cooktop 50 may include an induction cooktop configured to heat a cooking container by induced electromagnetic fields by passing a high frequency current through a coil. As an example, the cooktop 50 may include a gas burner cooktop for generating heat by burning gaseous fuel. There is no limitation on the type of the cooktop 50.

The cooking apparatus 1 may include the door 30. The door 30 may be configured to open and close the cooking chamber 20. The door 30 may cover the cooking chamber 20. The door 30 may be rotatably coupled to the main body 10. As an example, a lower portion of the door 30 may be rotatably coupled to the main body 10.

The door 30 may include a handle 34 configured to be grasped by a user. The user may open or close the door 30 using the handle 34. The handle 34 may be formed in a middle part 33, which will be described later.

The door 30 may include an upper part 31, a lower part 32, and the middle part 33. The lower part 32 may be disposed lower than the upper part 31. The lower part 32 may be spaced downward from the upper part 31. The middle part 33 may be provided between the upper part 31 and the lower part 32. The middle part 33 may cover between the upper part 31 and the lower part 32.

For example, the upper part 31, the lower part 32, and the middle part 33 may be referred to as the first door part 31, the second door part 32, and the third door part 33, respectively. For example, the upper part 31, the lower part 32, and the middle part 33 may be referred to as the first door frame 31, the second door frame 32, and the third door frame 33, respectively. For example, the upper part 31, the lower part 32, and the middle part 33 may be referred to as the first door panel 31, the second door panel 32, and the third door panel 33, respectively.

The Door 30 may be foldable. The upper part 31 may be configured to be foldable relative to the middle part 33. The lower part 32 may be configured to be foldable relative to the middle part 33. The door 30 may be referred to as the foldable door 30.

The door 30 may be configured to be switchable between a first state S1 in which the cooking chamber 20 is closed and a second state S2 in which the cooking chamber 20 is opened.

While the door 30 is in the first state S1, the door 30 may cover the cooking chamber 20. While the door 30 is in the first state S1, the cooking chamber 20 may not be exposed to the outside of the cooking apparatus 1. While the door 30 is in the first state S1, the door 30 may be in an unfolded state. While the door 30 is in the first state S1, the upper part 31, the middle part 33 and the lower part 32 may be arranged side by side in the vertical direction.

While the door 30 is in the second state S2, the door 30 may be configured to be folded to open the cooking chamber 20. While the door 30 is in the second state S2, the cooking chamber 20 may be exposed to the outside of the cooking apparatus 1. While the door 30 is in the second state S2, the door 30 may be in a folded state. While the door 30 is in the second state S2, each of the upper part 31 and the lower part 32 may be configured to be folded relative to the middle part 33, and a rear surface 31a of the upper part 31 and a rear surface 32a of the lower part 32 may be arranged to face each other. While the door 30 is in the second state S2, the rear surface 31a of the upper part 31 and the rear surface 32a of the lower part may be configured to form an acute angle. As an example, while the door 30 is in the second state S2, an angle between the lower part 32 and the vertical direction (Z direction) may be about 80 to 85 degrees. The rear surface 31a of the upper part 31 and the rear surface 32a of the lower part may be configured not to come into contact therewith. For example, in a case in which the rear 31a of the upper part 31 and the rear 32a of the lower part come into contact therewith, a large force may be required to lift the door 30 in the vertical direction (Z direction) when the door 30 is closed. However, according to the present disclosure, because while the door 30 is in the second state S2, the rear 31a of the upper part 31 and the rear 32a of the lower part are configured to form an acute angle, a force required when the door 30 is switched from the second state S2 to the first state S1 may be relatively small. That is, the user may easily close the door 30 even with a small force.

For example, referring to FIG. 3, while the door 30 is in the second state S2, the upper part 31 of the door 30 may be disposed lower than the supporter 21a which is located at the lowest position among the plurality of supporters 21. While the door 30 is in the second state S2, the uppermost end of the upper part 31 of the door 30 may be disposed lower than an upper surface 21aa of the supporter 21a. Accordingly, in a state in which the door 30 is opened, the tray 22 may be inserted into or withdrawn from the cooking chamber 20 without interfering with the door 30.

The cooking apparatus 1 may include a hinge 40 configured to connect the main body 10 and the door 30. The hinge 40 may support the door 30 to be rotatable relative to the main body 10. The hinge 40 may be coupled to each of the main body 10 and the door 30. A hinge fixing portion 41 (see FIG. 4) to which the hinge 40 is fixed may be formed in the main body 10.

FIG. 4 illustrates that the door of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is separated from a main body.

The cooking apparatus 1 may include a guide rail 70. The guide rail 70 may be provided on the main body 10. The guide rail 70 may be detachably mounted on the main body 10. For example, the guide rail 70 may be detachably mounted on a front side of the outer case 11 of the main body 10. The guide rail 70 may extend in the vertical direction (Z direction). The guide rail 70 may also be provided as a component of the main body 10, in which case the main body 10 may be considered to include the guide rail 70.

For example, the cooking apparatus 1 may include a pair of the guide rails 70. The pair of guide rails 70 may be arranged to correspond to the left side of the main body 10 and the right side of the main body 10, respectively.

The cooking apparatus 1 may include a guide protrusion 80. The guide protrusion 80 may be provided on the door 30. The guide protrusion 80 may be detachably mounted on the door 30. The guide protrusion 80 may be provided on the upper part 31. The guide protrusion 80 may be detachably mounted on the upper part 31. For example, a portion of the guide protrusion 80 may be disposed inside the upper part 31 of the door 30, and the remaining portion of the guide protrusion 80 may be disposed outside the upper part 31 of the door 30. For example, a portion of the guide protrusion 80 may be disposed inside the upper part 31 of the door 30, and the remaining portion of the guide protrusion 80 may protrude from a side surface of the upper part 31 of the door 30. The guide protrusion 80 may also be provided as a component of the door 30, in which case the door 30 may be considered to include the guide protrusion 80.

For example, the cooking apparatus 1 may include a pair of the guide protrusions 80. The pair of guide protrusions 80 may be disposed to correspond to the left side of the door 30 and the right side of the door 30, respectively.

Detailed descriptions of the guide rail 70 and guide protrusion 80 will be provided later.

The cooking apparatus 1 may include a latch device 100 configured to selectively restrict the door 30 to the main body 10. When the door 30 closes the cooking chamber 20, the latch device 100 may restrict the door 30 to the main body 10. The latch device 100 may be configured to lock the door 30 to the main body 10 while the door 30 is in the second state S2.

A portion of the latch device 100 may be provided on the door 30, and the remaining portion of the latch device 100 may be provided on the main body 10. A portion of the latch device 100 may be provided on the middle part 33 of the door 30, and the remaining portion of the latch device 100 may be provided on a portion of the main body 10 corresponding to the middle part 33.

The latch device 100 may include a first locking member 110. The first locking member 110 may be provided on the middle part 33 of the door 30. The first locking member 110 may be mounted on the middle part 33 of the door 30. The first locking member 110 may also be provided as a component of the door 30, in which case the door 30 may be considered to include the first locking member 110.

The latch device 100 may include a second locking member 120. The second locking member 120 may be provided on the main body 10. The second locking member 120 may be mounted on the main body 10. The second locking member 120 may also be provided as a component of the main body 10, in which case the main body 10 may be considered to include the second locking member 120.

A detailed description of the latch device 100 will be provided later.

A door hole 30h may be formed on a rear surface of the door 30. The first locking member 110 may protrude from the door 30 through the door hole 30h (see FIGS. 15 to 17). Alternatively, the second locking member 120 may be accessed to the first locking member 110 through the door hole 30h (see FIGS. 21 to 23).

A main body hole 13h may be formed on the front surface of the main body 10. As an example, the main body hole 13h may be formed by penetrating the front frame 13. The first locking member 110 may be accessed to the second locking member 120 through the main body hole 13h (see FIGS. 15 to 17). Alternatively, the second locking member 120 may protrude from the main body 10 through the main body hole 13h (see FIGS. 21 to 23).

FIG. 5 illustrates a case in which the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is in a first state. FIG. 6 illustrates a case in which the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is in a second state. FIG. 7 is an exploded view of a guide protrusion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a cut-away view illustrating a portion of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The guide protrusion 80 may be provided to be movable along the guide rail 70. The guide protrusion 80 may be provided to move along an extension direction of the guide rail 70. The guide protrusion 80 may be provided to move along the vertical direction (Z direction). The guide protrusion 80 may be provided to be movable relative to the guide rail 70. The guide protrusion 80 may be configured to be guided by the guide rail 70.

As the guide protrusion 80 moves along the guide rail 70, the door 30 may open or close the cooking chamber 20. As the guide protrusion 80 moves along the guide rail 70, the door 30 may be switchable between the first state S1 and the second state S2. As the guide protrusion 80 moves downward along the guide rail 70, the door 30 may open the cooking chamber 20. As the guide protrusion 80 moves upward along the guide rail 70, the door 30 may close the cooking chamber 20.

The guide protrusion 80 may include a holder 81. The holder 81 may be mounted on the door 30. The holder 81 may be detachably mounted on the upper part 31 of the door 30. The holder 81 may be fixed to the upper part 31 of the door 30.

For example, holder 81 may include a first holder part 811, a second holder part 812, and a third holder part 813. The first holder part 811 may include a substantially hollow cylindrical shape. The first holder part 811 may be disposed inside the upper part 31 of the door 30. The second holder part 812 may be coupled to a first end of the first holder part 811. The second holder part 812 may be disposed inside the upper part 31 of the door 30. The third holder part 813 may be coupled to a second end of the first holder part 811 and the side surface of the upper part 31 of the door 30. A portion of the third holder part 813 may be disposed outside the upper part 31 of the door 30.

The guide protrusion 80 may include a spring 83. The spring 83 may be accommodated in the holder 81. The spring 83 may have an elastic restoring force. The spring 83 may be configured to elastically bias a moving member 82, which will be described later. The spring 83 may be configured to elastically bias the moving member 82 in a direction in which the moving member 82 protrudes toward the guide rail 70. For example, the compressed spring 83 may move the moving member 82 while extending. The spring 83 may be referred to as the guide spring 83 to be distinguished from springs 113 and 127, which will be described later.

The guide protrusion 80 may include the moving member 82. At least a portion of the moving member 82 may be accommodated in the holder 81. The moving member 82 may protrude from the holder 81 or be inserted into the holder 81. The moving member 82 may be configured to protrude from the holder 81 by being elastically biased by the spring 83, or to be inserted into the holder 81 by being pressed. The moving member 82 may include a spring pressing portion 821. The moving member 82 may be configured to move in a direction of being inserted into the holder 81 as the moving member 82 is pressed, and the spring pressing portion 821 may be provided to press the spring 83. At this time, the spring 83 may be compressed. The moving member 82 may be provided to be movable along a substantially horizontal direction (Y direction).

The guide protrusion 80 may include a holder opening 84. The holder opening 84 may be formed in the holder 81. The holder opening 84 may be formed in the third holder part 813. The moving member 82 may be protruded from the holder 81 through the holder opening 84 or inserted into the holder 81 through the holder opening 84.

The guide rail 70 may include a rail body 71. The rail body 71 may form a rail groove 72, which will be described later. The rail body 71 may include a bent shape to form the rail groove 72.

The guide rail 70 may include the rail groove 72. The rail groove 72 may extend along the vertical direction. The rail groove 72 may be provided to accommodate at least a portion of the guide protrusion 80. The rail groove 72 may be provided to accommodate the moving member 82. The moving member 82 may be provided to move along the rail groove 72 in a state of being accommodated in the rail groove 72. The moving member 82 may be provided to be movable along the vertical direction (Z direction) in the rail groove 72.

The guide rail 70 may include a rail hole 73. The rail hole 73 may be formed to penetrate the rail body 71. At least a portion of the guide protrusion 80 may be exposed to the outside of the main body 10 through the rail hole 73. The moving member 82 of the guide protrusion 80 may be exposed to the outside of the main body 10 through the rail hole 73. The guide protrusion 80 may be configured to be accessible through the rail hole 73.

The guide protrusion 80 may receive an external force applied from the outside of the main body 10. For example, the user may press the moving member 82 by inserting a hand of the user or a tool into the rail hole 73. As the moving member 82 is pressed, the moving member 82 may be accommodated inside the holder 81 while pressing the spring 83. As the external force applied to the guide protrusion 80 is removed, the spring 83 may elastically bias the moving member 82. The moving member 82 may be protruded from the holder 81 toward the guide rail 70 by the spring 83.

For example, the guide protrusion 80 may include a plurality of the rail holes 73. The guide protrusion 80 may include a first rail hole 731 (see FIG. 5) and a second rail hole 732 (see FIG. 6). The second rail hole 732 may be disposed below the first rail hole 731. The second rail hole 732 may be spaced downward from the first rail hole 731.

When the door 30 is in the first state S1, the guide protrusion 80 may correspond to the first rail hole 731. When the door 30 is in the first state S1, the moving member 82 may be exposed to the outside of the main body 10 through the first rail hole 731. The moving member 82 may be configured to be accessible through the first rail hole 731 when the door 30 is in the first state S1.

When the door 30 is in the second state S2, the guide protrusion 80 may correspond to the second rail hole 732. When the door 30 is in the second state S2, the moving member 82 may be exposed to the outside of the main body 10 through the second rail hole 732. The moving member 82 may be configured to be accessible through the second rail hole 732 when the door 30 is in the second state S2.

The cooking apparatus 1 may include a stopper 90 (see FIG. 6). The stopper 90 may be mounted on the guide rail 70. The stopper 90 may support the guide protrusion 80 to limit the guide protrusion 80 from moving downward in a state in which the door 30 opens the cooking chamber 20. The stopper 90 may support the guide protrusion 80 to limit the guide protrusion 80 from moving downward while the door 30 is in the second state S2. The stopper 90 may be configured to come into contact with the guide protrusion 80. The stopper 90 may be configured to support the moving member 82 of the guide protrusion 80. The stopper 90 may support the guide protrusion 80 provided on the upper part 31 so that the upper part 31 and the lower part 32 may be kept at a constant acute angle when the door 30 is opened.

For example, the stopper 90 may include an elastic material, or a separate elastic member may be disposed on an upper side of the stopper 90. Accordingly, the stopper 90 may reduce impact and/or vibration occurring to the door 30 and the guide protrusion 80 while the door 30 is opening.

FIG. 9 illustrates that the guide protrusion is separated from a guide rail when the door is in the first state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 illustrates that the guide protrusion is separated from the guide rail when the door is in the second state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 9, when the door 30 is in the first state S1, the guide protrusion 80 may receive an external force applied from the outside of the main body 10. For example, while the door 30 is in the first state S1, the moving member 82 of the guide protrusion 80 may be pressed by an external force applied through the first rail hole 731 (see FIGS. 5 and 8). For example, the user may press the moving member 82 by inserting a hand of the user or a tool into the first rail hole 731. When the door 30 is in the first state S1, the guide protrusion 80 may be separated from the guide rail 70 in a state of being pressed by an external force. For example, while the moving member 82 is inserted into the holder 81, the moving member 82 is not interfered by the guide rail 70, and the guide protrusion 80 may be separated from the guide rail 70. As the guide protrusion 80 is separated from the guide rail 70, the door 30 may rotate to open the cooking chamber 20. The door 30 may open the cooking chamber 20 in the unfolded state.

Referring to FIG. 10, when the door 30 is in the second state S2, the guide protrusion 80 may receive an external force applied from the outside of the main body 10. For example, while the door 30 is in the second state S2, the moving member 82 of the guide protrusion 80 may be pressed by an external force applied through the second rail hole 732 (see FIGS. 6 and 8). For example, the user may press the moving member 82 by inserting a hand of the user or a tool into the second rail hole 732. When the door 30 is in the second state S2, the guide protrusion 80 may be separated from the guide rail 70 in the state of being pressed by an external force. For example, while the moving member 82 is inserted into the holder 81, the moving member 82 is not interfered by the guide rail 70, and the guide protrusion 80 may be separated from the guide rail 70. As the guide protrusion 80 is separated from the guide rail 70, the door 30 may be switched from the folded state to the unfolded state.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, as the guide protrusion 80 is separated from the guide rail 70, the door 30 may open the cooking chamber 20 in the unfolded state. Access to the rear surface of the door 30 may be facilitated. For example, the rear surface 31a of the upper part 31, the rear surface 32a of the lower part 32, and a rear surface 33a of the middle part 33 may be exposed. Accordingly, the user may smoothly perform maintenance of the door 30 and even clean the inside of the door 30.

FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of the door when the door is in the first state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of the door when the door is in the second state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the middle part 33 of the door 30 may include a first hinge shaft 331 and a second hinge shaft 332. The second hinge shaft 332 may be spaced apart from the first hinge shaft 331. The second hinge shaft 332 may be spaced downward from the first hinge shaft 331. The second hinge shaft 332 may be disposed below the first hinge shaft 331.

The upper part 31 may be configured to be rotatable relative to the middle part 33 about the first hinge shaft 331. The lower part 32 may be configured to be rotatable relative to the middle part 33 about the second hinge shaft 332. While the door 30 is switched from the first state S1 to the second state S2, the upper part 31 may rotate in a first direction R1 relative to the middle part 33. While the door 30 is switched from the first state S1 to the second state S2, the lower part 32 may rotate in a second direction R2 relative to the middle part 33. The first direction R1 and the second direction R2 may be opposite to each other. Conversely, while the door 30 is switched from the second state S2 to the first state S1, the upper part 31 may rotate in the second direction R2 relative to the middle part 33. While the door 30 is switched from the second state S2 to the first state S1, the lower part 32 may rotate in the first direction R1 relative to the middle part 33. The door 30 may have the two hinge shafts 331 and 332, whereby the door 30 may be configured to be foldable by being divided into the upper part 31, the lower part 32 and the middle part 33.

For example, the middle part 33 may include a middle panel 334 forming at least a portion of the rear surface 33a of the middle part 33. The middle panel 334 may be coupled to the first hinge shaft 331 and the second hinge shaft 332.

For example, the door 30 may include a first connecting panel 35 coupled to the first hinge shaft 331 to connect the middle part 33 and the upper part 31. The first connecting panel 35 may connect the middle panel 334 and the upper part 31. The first connecting panel 35 may be rotatably coupled to the first hinge shaft 331. As the first connecting panel 35 rotates, the upper part 31 may also rotate. The upper part 31 may rotate together with the first connecting panel 35.

For example, the door 30 may include a second connecting panel 36 coupled to the second hinge shaft 332 to connect the middle part 33 and the lower part 32. The second connecting panel 36 may connect the middle panel 334 and the lower part 32. The second connecting panel 36 may be rotatably coupled to the second hinge shaft 332. As the second connecting panel 36 rotates, the lower part 32 may also rotate. The lower part 32 may rotate together with the second connecting panel 36.

The middle part 33 may include a cover frame 333. The cover frame 333 may have a curved shape. The cover frame 333 may include a substantially forward-facing convex shape. In a state in which the door 30 closes the cooking chamber 20 (i.e., the first state S1), the cover frame 333 may be covered by the upper part 31 and the lower part 32. In the state in which the door 30 opens the cooking chamber 20 (i.e., the second state S2), the cover frame 333 may be provided to cover between the upper part 31 and the lower part 32. While the door 30 is folded, the cover frame 333 may cover between the upper part 31 and the lower part 32. Due to this, the cover frame 333 may minimize a gap formed as the door 30 is folded, and accidents such as a finger jam of the user may be reduced and/or prevented. Additionally, parts inside the door 30 may not be exposed by the cover frame 333. The safety of use of the cooking apparatus 1 and the appearance quality of the door 30 of the cooking apparatus 1 may be improved.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a first locking member of a latch device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14 illustrates an example of a second locking member of the latch device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 schematically illustrates a state before the first locking member is engaged with the second locking member in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 16 schematically illustrates that the first locking member is being engaged with the second locking member in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 17 schematically illustrates a state in which the first locking member is engaged with the second locking member in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 18 schematically illustrates a state in which the first locking member engaged with the second locking member is pressed by a pressing member in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

An example of the latch device 100 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 13 to 18.

The latch device 100 may include the first locking member 110. The first locking member 110 may be provided on the door 30 and configured to move together with the door 30. The first locking member 110 may be engaged with the second locking member 120 or disengaged from the second locking member 120.

The first locking member 110 may include a door bracket 111. The door bracket 111 may be fixed to the door 30. The door bracket 111 may be fixed to the middle part 33 of the door 30.

The first locking member 110 may include a latch protrusion 112. The latch protrusion 112 may be configured to be rotatable relative to the door bracket 111. The latch protrusion 112 may be rotatably coupled to the door bracket 111. The latch protrusion 112 may protrude to the rear of the door 30 through the door hole 30h. The latch protrusion 112 may protrude from the rear surface of the middle part 33 of the door 30. The latch protrusion 112 may be referred to as the first latch protrusion 112 to be distinguished from a latch protrusion 126, which will be described later.

The first locking member 110 may include a connecting pin 114. The latch protrusion 112 may rotate relative to the door bracket 111 about the connecting pin 114. The connecting pin 114 may couple the latch protrusion 112 to the door bracket 111. The connecting pin 114 may be inserted into the door bracket 111 and the latch protrusion 112. The connecting pin 114 may be referred to as the first connecting pin 114 to be distinguished from a connecting pin 128, which will be described later.

The first locking member 110 may include the spring 113. The spring 113 may be connected to the door bracket 111 and the latch protrusion 112. The spring 113 may include a first end 1131 connected to the door bracket 111 and a second end 1132 connected to the latch protrusion 112. The spring 113 may have an elastic restoring force. The spring 113 may be configured to elastically bias the latch protrusion 112. For example, the extended spring 113 may rotate the latch protrusion 112 while being compressed. The spring 113 may be referred to as the latch spring 113 to be distinguished from the guide spring 83. The spring 113 may be referred to as the first spring 113 to be distinguished from the spring 127, which will be described later.

The latch device 100 may include the second locking member 120. The second locking member 120 may be provided on the main body 10. The second locking member 120 may be engaged with the first locking member 110 or disengaged from the first locking member 110.

The second locking member 120 may include a latch frame 121. The latch frame 121 may be fixed to the main body 10. The latch frame 121 may be provided on a portion of the main body 10 corresponding to the middle part 33. For example, the latch frame 121 may be disposed in the space between the inner case 12 and the outer case 11. The latch frame 121 may be configured to accommodable the latch protrusion 112.

The second locking member 120 may include an inclined portion 122. The inclined portion 122 may be formed in the latch frame 121. The first locking member 110 may move along the inclined portion 122 and then be engaged with the second locking member 120. The latch protrusion 112 may be configured to come into contactable with the inclined portion 122. The latch protrusion 112 may be configured to be movable along the inclined portion 122. The inclined portion 122 may be referred to as the first inclined portion 122 to be distinguished from an inclined portion 126a, which will be described later.

The second locking member 120 may include a frame hole 123. The frame hole 123 may be formed in the latch frame 121. The latch protrusion 112 may enter the inside of the latch frame 121 through the frame hole 123. The frame hole 123 may be disposed at the front of the inclined portion 122. The frame hole 123 may be overlapped with the main body hole 13h.

The second locking member 120 may include a latch catching portion 124. The latch catching portion 124 may be formed in the latch frame 121. The latch protrusion 112 may be configured to be engaged with the latch catching portion 124. The latch protrusion 112 may be configured to be engaged with the latch catching portion 124 in the state in which the door 30 closes the cooking chamber 20. As the latch protrusion 112 is caught on the latch catching portion 124, the first locking member 110 may be engaged with the second locking member 120. The latch catching portion 124 may be disposed at the rear of the inclined portion 122. The latch catching portion 124 may be referred to as the latch fixing portion 124. The latch catching portion 124 may be referred to as the first latch catching portion 124 to be distinguished from a latch catching portion 115, which will be described later.

The latch device 100 may include a switch 130. The switch 130 may be configured to detect whether the door 30 is opened or closed. The switch 130 may be configured to come into contactable with the latch protrusion 112. The switch 130 may include a sensing member 131 configured to be pressed by the latch protrusion 112. When the sensing member 131 is pressed by the latch protrusion 112 (see FIG. 17), the switch 130 may generate a door closing signal and transmit the signal to a controller 400 (see FIG. 36). The controller 400 may identify whether the door is opened or closed based on a signal received from the switch 130. The switch 130 may be provided as a component of the second locking member 120.

The latch device 100 may include a pressing member 140. The pressing member 140 may be configured to press the latch protrusion 112. The pressing member 140 may be configured to press the latch protrusion 112 to limit the latch protrusion 112 from moving while the latch protrusion 112 is caught on the latch catching portion 124. The pressing member 140 may include a pressing bar 141 movable to press the latch protrusion 112 (see FIG. 18). The pressing member 140 may also be provided as a component of the second locking member 120.

Next, an example of a process of engaging the first locking member 110 and the second locking member 120 will be described below.

Referring to FIG. 15, the first locking member 110 may move toward the second locking member 120. As the door 30 moves to close the cooking chamber 20, the first locking member 110 provided on the door 30 may also move. The middle part 33 of door 30 may move toward the rear (−X direction).

Referring to FIG. 16, the first locking member 110 may be inserted into the main body 10 through the main body hole 13h of the main body 10. The latch protrusion 112 may enter the inside of the latch frame 121 through the main body hole 13h and the frame hole 123. The latch protrusion 112 may come into contactable with the inclined portion 122. The latch protrusion 112 may move along the inclined portion 122. While the latch protrusion 112 moves along the inclined portion 122, the latch protrusion 112 may rotate relative to the door bracket 111. While the latch protrusion 112 moves along the inclined portion 122, the spring 113 may be extended.

Referring to FIG. 17, the latch protrusion 112 may be configured to move along the inclined portion 122 and then be caught on the latch catching portion 124. The latch protrusion 112 may be configured to pass the inclined portion 122 and be caught on the latch catching portion 124. The spring 113 may elastically bias the latch protrusion 112 so that the latch protrusion 112 is caught on the latch catching portion 124. The latch protrusion 112 may be stably fixed to the latch catching portion 124 by the elastic restoring force of the spring 113. The spring 113 may rotate the latch protrusion 112 while being compressed. The switch 130 may be configured to come into contact with the latch protrusion 112 while the latch protrusion 112 is caught on the latch catching portion 124. Based on the switch 130 coming into contact with the latch protrusion 112, the cooking apparatus 1 may identify that the door 30 closes the cooking chamber 20.

Referring to FIG. 18, while the latch protrusion 112 is caught on the latch catching portion 124, the pressing member 140 may press the latch protrusion 112. The latch protrusion 112 may be fixed to the latch frame 121 by the pressing member 140. While the latch protrusion 112 is pressed by the pressing member 140, the door 30 may be limited from opening. For example, when the door 30 is to be kept in a closed state, the pressing member 140 may move to press the latch protrusion 112. The pressing bar 141 of the pressing member 140 may protrude toward the latch protrusion 112.

FIG. 19 illustrates an example of the first locking member of the latch device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 20 illustrates an example of the second locking member of the latch device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 21 schematically illustrates a state before the first locking member is engaged with the second locking member in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 22 schematically illustrates that the first locking member is being engaged with the second locking member in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 23 schematically illustrates a state in which the first locking member is engaged with the second locking member in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

An example of the latch device 100 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 19 to 23.

The latch device 100 may include the first locking member 110. The first locking member 110 may be provided on the door 30 and configured to move together with the door 30. The first locking member 110 may be engaged with the second locking member 120 or disengaged from the second locking member 120.

The first locking member 110 may include the latch catching portion 115. The latch catching portion 115 may be disposed inside the door 30. The latch catching portion 115 may be fixed inside the door 30. For example, the latch catching portion 115 may include a substantially cylindrical shape. The latch catching portion 115 may be referred to as the locking pin 115. The latch catching portion 115 may be referred to as the latch fixing portion 115. The latch catching portion 115 may be referred to as the second latch catching portion 115 to be distinguished from the latch catching portion 124.

The latch device 100 may include the second locking member 120. The second locking member 120 may be provided on the main body 10. The second locking member 120 may be engaged with the first locking member 110 or disengaged from the first locking member 110.

The second locking member 120 may include a main body bracket 125. The main body bracket 125 may be fixed to the main body 10. For example, the main body bracket 125 may be disposed in the space between the inner case 12 and the outer case 11. The main body bracket 125 may include a rotation limiting rib 1251 provided to limit a rotation range of the latch protrusion 126, which will be described later.

The second locking member 120 may include the latch protrusion 126. The latch protrusion 126 may be configured to be rotatable relative to the main body bracket 125. The latch protrusion 126 may be rotatably coupled to the main body bracket 125. The latch protrusion 126 may protrude toward the rear of the main body 10 through the main body hole 13h. The latch protrusion 126 may protrude from the front surface of the main body 10. The latch protrusion 126 may be configured to be caught on the latch catching portion 115. The latch protrusion 126 may be configured to be caught on the latch catching portion 115 in the state in which the door 30 closes the cooking chamber 20. As the latch protrusion 126 is caught on the latch catching portion 115, the first locking member 110 may be engaged with the second locking member 120. The latch protrusion 126 may be referred to as the second latch protrusion 126 to be distinguished from the latch protrusion 112.

The second locking member 120 may include the inclined portion 126a. The inclined portion 126a may be formed in the latch protrusion 126. The first locking member 110 may move along the inclined portion 126a and then be engaged with the second locking member 120. The latch catching portion 115 may be configured to come into contactable with the inclined portion 126a. The latch catching portion 115 may be configured to be movable along the inclined portion 126a. The inclined portion 126a may be referred to as the second inclined portion 126a to be distinguished from the inclined portion 122.

The second locking member 120 may include the spring 127. The spring 127 may be connected to the main body bracket 125 and the latch protrusion 126. The spring 127 may include a first end 1271 connected to the main body bracket 125 and a second end 1272 connected to the latch protrusion 126. The spring 127 may have an elastic restoring force. The spring 127 may be configured to elastically bias the latch protrusion 126. For example, the extended spring 127 may rotate the latch protrusion 126 while being compressed. The spring 127 may be referred to as the latch spring 127 to be distinguished from the guide spring 83. The spring 127 may be referred to as the second spring 127 to be distinguished from the spring 113.

The second locking member 120 may include the connecting pin 128. The latch protrusion 126 may rotate relative to the main body bracket 125 about the connecting pin 128. The connecting pin 128 may couple the latch protrusion 126 to the main body bracket 125. The connecting pin 128 may be inserted into the main body bracket 125 and the latch protrusion 126. The connecting pin 128 may be referred to as the second connecting pin 128 to be distinguished from the connecting pin 114.

Next, an example of the process of engaging the first locking member 110 and the second locking member 120 will be described.

Referring to FIG. 21, the first locking member 110 may move toward the second locking member 120. As the door 30 moves to close the cooking chamber 20, the first locking member 110 provided on the door 30 may also move. The middle part 33 of the door 30 may move toward the rear (−X direction).

Referring to FIG. 22, as the first locking member 110 moves toward the second locking member 120, the latch protrusion 126 may enter the inside of the door 30 through the door hole 30h. The latch protrusion 126 may be inserted into the door 30 through the door hole 30h. The latch catching portion 115 may come into contact with the inclined portion 126a. The latch catching portion 115 may move along the inclined portion 126a. While the latch catching portion 115 moves along the inclined portion 126a, the latch protrusion 126 may rotate by being pressed against the latch catching portion 115. The latch protrusion 126 may rotate relative to the main body bracket 125. While the latch catching portion 115 moves along the inclined portion 126a, the spring 127 may be extended.

Referring to FIG. 23, the latch protrusion 126 may be configured to be caught on the latch catching portion 115 after the latch catching portion 115 moves along the inclined portion 126a. The spring 127 may elastically bias the latch protrusion 126 so that the latch protrusion 126 is caught on the latch catching portion 115. The latch protrusion 126 may be stably fixed to the latch catching portion 115 by the elastic restoring force of the spring 127. The spring 127 may rotate the latch protrusion 126 while being compressed. The rotation limiting rib 1251 may limit the latch protrusion 126 from further rotating in a direction of being rotated (see an arrow in FIG. 23) by the spring 127 in a state in which the latch protrusion 126 is fixed to the latch catching portion 115.

In general, in a case in which the cooking apparatus includes a foldable door, a space occupied by the door in the opened state may be reduced. However, while the door closes the cooking chamber, a gap may form between the door and the cooking chamber due to a pressure inside the cooking chamber, a weight of the door, etc. Heat inside the cooking chamber may escape through such a gap, which may reduce cooking performance and energy efficiency of the cooking apparatus.

According to the present disclosure, the cooking apparatus 1 may include the latch device 100. The first locking member 110 provided on the middle part 33 of the door 30 and the second locking member 120 provided on the main body 10 may be engaged. The first locking member 110 and the second locking member 120 may be engaged while the door 30 closes the cooking chamber 20. While the door 30 is in the first state S1, the first locking member 110 and the second locking member 120 may be engaged. Accordingly, the latch device 100 may prevent a gap from forming between the door 30 and the cooking chamber 20. The latch device 100 may prevent heat inside the cooking chamber 20 from escaping to the outside while the door 30 closes the cooking chamber 20.

FIG. 24 is a rear perspective view of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 24, the cooking apparatus 1 may include a door locking device 200. The door locking device 200 may be configured to fix the closed door 30 or to open the closed door 30. The door locking device 200 may be connected to the second locking member 120. The door locking device 200 may be mounted on the main body 10. For example, the door locking device 200 may be disposed in the space between the inner case 12 and the outer case 11.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a door locking device that operates to open the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 26 is a side cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the door locking device that operates to open the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 27 is a view schematically illustrating that a latch protrusion of the second locking member is rotated by the door locking device to open the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The door locking device 200 may include a first motor 210. The first motor 210 may generate power. The first motor 210 may generate a rotational force. The first motor 210 may be referred to as a first driving source 210.

The door locking device 200 may include a pusher 220. The pusher 220 may be connected to the first motor 210. The pusher 220 may be coupled to a rotation shaft 211 of the first motor 210. The pusher 220 may be configured to rotate by the first motor 210. The pusher 220 may press a slider 230 while rotating.

The door locking device 200 may include the slider 230. The slider 230 may be configured to be movable while being pressed by the pusher 220. As the slider 230 moves, a connecting rod 240 connected to the slider 230 may also move.

The door locking device 200 may include the connecting rod 240. The connecting rod 240 may connect the second locking member 120 and the slider 230. A first end 241 of the connecting rod 240 may be connected to the second locking member 120, and a second end 242 of the connecting member 240 may be connected to the slider 230. The connecting rod 240 may connect the latch protrusion 126 and the slider 230. The connecting rod 240 may be moved by the slider 230. The connecting rod 240 may be moved in conjunction with the movement of the slider 230.

The first motor 210 of the door locking device 200 may rotate to open the closed door 30. The latch protrusion 126 may be configured to be disengaged from the latch catching portion 115 by being rotated relative to the main body bracket 125 by the connecting rod 240 based on the rotation of the first motor 210.

Referring to FIGS. 25 and 26, as the first motor 210 rotates, the pusher 220 connected to the first motor 210 may rotate. The pusher 220 may press the slider 230 while rotating. The slider 230 may be moved by being pressed by the pusher 220. The connecting rod 240 connected to the slider 230 may be moved by the slider 230.

Referring to FIG. 27, the connecting rod 240 may be configured to rotate the latch protrusion 126 relative to the main body bracket 125 in conjunction with the movement of the slider 230. The connecting rod 240 may rotate the latch protrusion 126 by being pressed by the slider 230. As the connecting rod 240 presses the latch protrusion 126, the spring 127 may extend and the latch protrusion 126 may rotate about the connecting pin 128. The latch protrusion 126 may be disengaged from the latch catching portion 115 while being rotated by the connecting rod 240. The second locking member 120 may be separated from the first locking member 110. Accordingly, the door 30 may be opened.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view schematically illustrating the door locking device that operates to lock the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 29 is a side cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the door locking device that operates to lock the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 30 is a view schematically illustrating that the rotation of the latch protrusion of the second locking member is limited to lock the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The door locking device 200 may include a second motor 250. The second motor 250 may generate power. The second motor 250 may generate a rotational force. The second motor 250 may be referred to as the second driving source 250.

The door locking device 200 may include a cam 260. The cam 260 may be connected to the second motor 250. The cam 260 may be coupled to a rotation shaft 251 of the second motor 250. The cam 260 may be configured to be rotated by the second motor 250. The cam 260 may move a locker 270 while rotating. For example, the cam 260 may induce the locker 270 to move eccentrically with respect to the second motor 250.

The door locking device 200 may include the locker 270. The locker 270 may be connected to the cam 260 and configured to be movable by the cam 260. The locker 270 may rotate eccentrically from the rotation shaft 251 of the second motor 250. The locker 270 may include a hook 271. As the locker 270 is moved by the cam 260, the hook 271 may interfere with the slider 230. Accordingly, the locker 270 may limit the movement of the slider 230.

The second motor 250 of the door locking device 200 may rotate to fix the closed door 30. The locker 270 may be configured to be moved by the cam 260 based on the rotation of the second motor 250 to interfere with the slider 230.

Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, as the second motor 250 rotates, the cam 260 connected to the second motor 250 may rotate. The cam 260 may guide the movement of the locker 270 while rotating. The locker 270 may interfere with the slider 230 while moving. For example, the hook 271 of the locker 270 may fix a slider protrusion 231 of the slider 230. The slider 230 and the connecting rod 240 connected to the slider 230 may not move by being restrained by the locker 270. Due to this, the latch protrusion 126 connected to the connecting rod 240 may not rotate.

Referring to FIG. 30, because the rotation of the latch protrusion 126 is restricted, the latch protrusion 126 may not be separated from the latch catching portion 115 in a state of being caught on the latch catching portion 115. The first locking member 110 and the second locking member 120 may be kept in an engaged state. Accordingly, the door 30 may not be opened.

FIG. 31 is a rear perspective view of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 32 is an exploded view of a door opening/closing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 33 schematically illustrates a state before the door opening/closing device opens the door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 34 schematically illustrates that the door opening/closing device is opening the door in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 35 schematically illustrates a state in which the door opening/closing device opens the door in the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 31 to 35, the cooking apparatus 1 may include a door opening/closing device 300. The door 30 may be configured to be opened or closed by the door opening/closing device 300. The door opening device 300 may be configured to push the door 30 so that the door 30 opens the cooking chamber 20. The door opening/closing device 300 may be configured to pull the door 30 so that the door 30 closes the cooking chamber 20. The door opening/closing device 300 may be connected to the door 30.

The door opening/closing device 300 may be mounted on the main body 10. The door opening/closing device 300 may be disposed inside the main body 10. For example, the door opening/closing device 300 may be disposed in the space between the inner case 12 and the outer case 11. For example, the door opening/closing device 300 may be disposed below the inner case 12. For example, the door opening/closing device 300 may be disposed below the cooking chamber 20.

The door opening/closing device 300 may include an actuator 310. The actuator 310 may include a linear rod 311. The linear rod 311 may be configured to be movable in a front-rear direction (X direction). The linear rod 311 may move to protrude toward the door 30 or move away from the door 30. The linear rod 311 may be configured to perform a linear motion. The linear rod 311 may be formed with a first connecting hole 312.

The door opening/closing device 300 may include a door link 320. The door link 320 may be mounted on the rear surface of the door 30. The door link 320 may be provided at the rear surface of the lower part 32 of the door 30. The door link 320 may include a second connecting hole 321.

The door opening/closing device 300 may include a connecting link 330. The connecting link 330 may connect the actuator 310 and the door link 320. A first end of the connecting link 330 may be rotatably connected to the actuator 310. A second end of the connecting link 330 may be rotatably connected to the door link 320. The connecting link 330 may include a first link hole 3301 corresponding to the first connecting hole 312. The first link hole 3301 may include a first hole end 3301a and a second hole end 3301b. For example, the first link hole 3301 may include an oval shape. For example, the first link hole 3301 may include an elongated hole shape. The connecting link 330 may include a second link hole 3302 corresponding to the second connecting hole 321. For example, the second link hole 3302 may include a circular shape.

The door opening/closing device 300 may include a first joint 340. The first joint 340 may couple the linear rod 311 of the actuator 310 and the connecting link 330. The first joint 340 may be inserted into the first connecting hole 312 and the first link hole 3301. The first joint 340 may be configured to be movable within the first link hole 3301.

The door opening/closing device 300 may include a second joint 350. The second joint 350 may couple the door link 320 and the connecting link 330. The second joint 350 may be inserted into the second connecting hole 321 and the second link hole 3302. The door link 320 may rotate about the second joint 350.

An example of a process in which the door opening/closing device 300 opens the door 30 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 33 to 35.

The first joint 340 may be positioned at the first hole end 3301a of the first link hole 3301 when the door 30 is closed. As the linear rod 311 of the actuator 310 protrudes toward the door 30, the first joint 340 may move from the first hole end 3301a of the first link hole 3301 to the second hole end 3301b. The linear rod 311 of the actuator 310 may press the connecting link 330, and the connecting link 330 and the door link 320 may rotate. At least a portion of the connecting link 330 and the door link 320 may be raised. The door 30 connected to the door link 320 may rotate to open the cooking chamber 20. As at least a portion of the raised connecting link 330 and the raised door link 320 are lowered again, the first joint 340 may move from the second hole end 3301b of the first link hole 3301 to the first hole end 3301a. The door 30 may be fully opened.

When the door opening/closing device 300 closes the door 30, the processes illustrated in FIGS. 33 to 35 may be performed in reverse order. For example, as the protruded linear rod 311 of the actuator 310 moves away from the door 30 in the state in which the door 30 is opened, the door 30 may rotate to be closed.

FIG. 36 is a control block diagram of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 36, the cooking apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include the user interface 60, a communication module 500, the door locking device 200, the door opening/closing device 300, and the controller 400. The controller 400 may be electrically connected to components of the cooking apparatus 1 and may control the components of the cooking apparatus 1.

The user interface 60 enables the user and the cooking apparatus 1 to interact with each other.

The user interface 60 may include the at least one input interface 61 and the at least one output interface 62.

The at least one input interface 61 may convert sensory information received from the user into an electrical signal. The at least one input interface 61 may receive user input.

For example, the at least one input interface 61 may include a knob, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and/or a microphone.

The controller 400 may control an operation of the cooking apparatus 1 by processing a command received through the input interface 61.

The at least one output interface 62 may transmit a variety of information related to the operations of the cooking apparatus 1 to the user by generating sensory information. The at least one output interface 62 may display information related to the operations of the cooking apparatus 1. The at least one output interface 62 may display information input by the user or information provided to the user on various screens.

For example, the at least one output interface 62 may transmit information related to an operating time of the cooking apparatus 1, settings of the cooking apparatus 1, etc., to the user. Information about the operations of the cooking apparatus 1 may be output by a display, an indicator, voice, etc. The at least one output interface 62 may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an indicator, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

The controller 400 may control the output interface 62 to output sensory information about the cooking apparatus 1.

The communication module 500 may communicate with external devices (e.g., servers, user devices, and/or home appliances) via wired and/or wireless means.

The communication module 500 may include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module.

The communication module 500 may transmit data to an external device or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication module 500 may establish communication with a server, a user device, and/or other home appliances, and transmit and receive various data.

The controller 400 may receive commands for controlling the cooking apparatus 1 from an external device through the communication module 500. The controller 400 may receive recipe information from an external device through the communication module 500. The controller 400 may receive information on food to be cooked from an external device through the communication module 500.

The door locking device 200 may be configured to open the door 30 or to fix the door 30. The door locking device 200 may include the first motor 210 and the second motor 250. The first motor 210 may operate to open the closed door 30. The second motor 250 may operate to fix the closed door 30.

The controller 400 may control the door locking device 200 based on user input received through the user interface 60 and/or the communication module 500. The controller 400 may control the door locking device 200 to rotate the first motor 210 based on receiving a door opening command. The controller 400 may control the door locking device 200 to rotate the second motor 250 based on receiving a door fixing command.

The door opening/closing device 300 may be configured to open and close the door 30. The door opening/closing device 300 may include the actuator 310.

The controller 400 may control the door opening/closing device 300 based on user input received through the user interface 60 and/or the communication module 500. The controller 400 may control the door opening/closing device 300 to move the linear rod 311 of the actuator 310 forward based on receiving the door opening command. The controller 400 may control the door opening/closing device 300 to move the linear rod 311 of the actuator 310 rearward based on receiving a door closing command.

The controller 400 may include a processor 410 and memory 420. The processor 410 and the memory 420 may be implemented as separate chips, or may be implemented as a single chip. Also, the controller 400 may include a plurality of processors and a plurality of memories.

The processor 410 may include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits as hardware. The processor 410 may control electrically connected components of the cooking apparatus 1 using programs, instructions and/or data stored in the memory 420 for the operations of the cooking apparatus 1.

The memory 420 may store programs, applications and/or data for the operations of the cooking apparatus 1 and may store data generated by the processor 410. The memory 420 may include non-volatile memory, such as read only memory (ROM) and flash memory, for long-term storage of data. The memory 420 may include volatile memory, such as static random access memory (S-RAM) and dynamic random access memory (D-RAM), for temporarily storing data.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a cooking apparatus 1 may include a main body 10 including a cooking chamber 20, a door 30 configured to be foldable to open and close the cooking chamber 20 and including an upper part 31, a lower part 32, and a middle part 33 provided between the upper part and the lower part, and a latch device 100 configured to selectively restrict the door 30 to the main body 10. The latch device 100 may include a first locking member 110 provided on the middle part 33 of the door 30, and a second locking member 120 provided on the main body 10 and including an inclined portion 122 (126a). The first locking member 110 may be configured to move along the inclined portion 122 (126a) and then be coupled to the second locking member 120 while the door 30 closes the cooking chamber 20.

The first locking member 110 may include a door bracket 111 fixed to the door, and a latch protrusion 112 configured to be rotatable relative to the door bracket, protrude from the rear of the door, and come into contactable with the inclined portion 122. The second locking member 120 may include a latch frame 121 fixed to the main body and configured to be accommodatable the latch protrusion, and a latch catching portion 124 formed on the latch frame and provided at the rear of the inclined portion. The latch protrusion 112 may be configured to be caught on the latch catching portion 124 in a state in which the door 30 closes the cooking chamber 20.

The first locking member 110 may further include a spring 113 having a first end 1131 connected to the door bracket and a second end 1132 connected to the latch protrusion. The spring 113 may be configured to elastically bias the latch protrusion 112 so that the latch protrusion is caught on the latch catching portion 124.

The cooking apparatus 1 may further include a switch 130 mounted on the latch frame to detect whether the door is opened or closed and configured to come into contact with the latch protrusion 112 while the latch protrusion 112 is caught on the latch catching portion 124.

The cooking apparatus 1 may further include a pressing member 140 configured to press the latch protrusion 112 to limit the latch protrusion from moving while the latch protrusion 112 is caught on the latch catching portion 124.

The first locking member 110 may include a latch catching portion 115 disposed inside the door. The second locking member 120 may include a main body bracket 125 fixed to the main body. The second locking member 120 may include a latch protrusion 126 configured to be rotatable relative to the main body bracket and protrude from a front surface of the main body and including the inclined portion 126a. The latch protrusion 126 may be configured to be caught on the latch catching portion 115 in the state in which the door closes the cooking chamber.

The second locking member 120 may further include a spring 127 having a first end 1271 connected to the main body bracket and a second end 1272 connected to the latch protrusion. The spring 127 may be configured to elastically bias the latch protrusion 126 so that the latch protrusion 126 is caught on the latch catching portion 115.

The cooking apparatus 1 may further include a first motor 210, a pusher 220 connected to the first motor and configured to be rotated by the first motor, a slider 230 configured to be movable by being pressed by the pusher, a connecting rod 240 configured to connect the slider and the latch protrusion and rotate the latch protrusion relative to the main body bracket in conjunction with the movement of the slider, a second motor 250, a cam 260 connected to the second motor and configured to be rotated by the second motor, and a locker 270 connected to the cam to be movable by the cam.

The latch protrusion 126 may be configured to be disengaged from the latch catching portion 115 by being rotated relative to the main body bracket 125 by the connecting rod 240 based on the rotation of the first motor 210. The locker 270 may be configured to be moved by the cam 260 based on the rotation of the second motor 250 to interfere with the slider 230.

The middle part 33 may include a first hinge shaft 331 and a second hinge shaft 332 spaced apart from the first hinge shaft. The upper part 31 may be configured to be rotatable relative to the middle part about the first hinge shaft 331. The lower part 32 may be configured to be rotatable relative to the middle part about the second hinge shaft 332.

The middle part 33 may include a cover frame 333 configured to cover between the upper part 31 and the lower part 32 in a state in which the door opens the cooking chamber and having a curved shape.

The cooking apparatus 1 may further include a guide rail 70 mounted on the main body and extending in a vertical direction, and a guide protrusion 80 mounted on the door and configured to be movable along the guide rail.

The guide rail 70 may include a rail hole 73. The guide protrusion 80 may include a holder 81 mounted on the upper part of the door, a spring 83 accommodated in the holder, and a moving member 82 configured to be elastically biased by the spring to protrude from the holder or to be inserted into the holder while being pressed, the moving member being configured to be exposed to the outside of the main body 10 through the rail hole 73.

The cooking apparatus 1 may include a stopper 90 mounted on the guide rail 70 and configured to support the guide protrusion 80 to limit the guide protrusion 80 from moving downward in the state in which the door opens the cooking chamber.

The cooking apparatus 1 may further include a door opening/closing device 300 configured to push the door so that the door opens the cooking chamber and to pull the door so that the door closes the cooking chamber. The door opening/closing device 300 may include an actuator 310 having a linear rod movable in a front-rear direction, a door link 320 provided on a rear surface of the lower part of the door, and a connecting link 330 having a first end rotatably connected to the actuator and a second end rotatably connected to the door link.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a cooking apparatus 1 may include a main body 10 including a cooking chamber 20, a door 30 configured to be switchable between a first state S1 of being unfolded to close the cooking chamber and a second state S2 of being folded to open the cooking chamber, a guide rail 70 mounted on the main body and extending in a vertical direction, a guide protrusion 80 mounted on the door and configured to be movable along the guide rail, and a stopper 90 mounted on the guide rail 70. The stopper may support the guide protrusion 80 to limit the guide protrusion 80 from moving downward while the door is in the second state S2.

The guide rail 70 may include a rail hole 73. The guide protrusion 80 may be configured to be accessible through the rail hole 73.

The door 30 may include an upper part 31 on which the guide protrusion is mounted, a lower part 32 disposed below the upper part, and a middle part 33 provided between the upper part and the lower part. The upper part may be configured to rotate in a first direction R1 relative to the middle part while the door is switched from the first state S1 to the second state S2, and the lower part may be configured to rotate in a second direction R2 relative to the middle part. A rear surface of the upper part 31 and a rear surface of the lower part 32 may be configured to form an acute angle while the door is in the second state S2.

The main body 10 may include an inner case 12 forming the cooking chamber 20. The cooking apparatus 1 may include a tray 22 configured to place a food to be cooked and to be capable of being inserted into the cooking chamber 20 and withdrawn from the cooking chamber 20, and a plurality of supporters 21 formed on a side wall of the inner case 12 to support the tray 22, the plurality of supporters 21 being spaced apart in the vertical direction. While the door is in the second state S2, the upper part 31 of the door may be disposed lower than a supporter 21a which is located at the lowest position among the plurality of supporters 21.

The cooking apparatus 1 may further include a latch device 100 configured to selectively restrict the door to the main body. The latch device 100 may include a first locking member 110 provided on the middle part of the door, and a second locking member 120 provided on the main body. The first locking member 110 may be configured to be engaged with the second locking member 120 while the door is in the first state S1.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cooking apparatus can include a foldable door. As the door is folded when opened, a space occupied by the door can be reduced.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the door can include an upper part, a lower part, and a middle part, and the middle part of the door and the main body can be combined when the door is closed. Heat can be prevented from escaping between the middle part of the door and the main body.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the door is opened, a cover frame of the middle part can cover a space between the upper part and the lower part. Accidents such as a finger jam of a user can be prevented.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the upper part and the lower part can be kept at a constant acute angle without being horizontal to each other when the door is opened. To this end, a stopper can be disposed on a guide rail. A small force can be required to close the door.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a guide protrusion can be configured to be detachable from the guide rail. As the guide protrusion is detached from the guide rail, a rear surface of the door can be exposed. The user can easily clean even the inside of the door.

Effects according to the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the fallowing description.

The foregoing has illustrated and described specific embodiments. However, it should be understood by those of skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the technical idea of the present disclosure described in the following claims.