JP2018175671A - Rice cooker - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a rice cooker which can avoid a situation that an IH cooker cannot perform a prescribed rice cooking operation correctly even when a control signal for performing cooking control during a rice cooking operation is not normally transmitted.SOLUTION: There are provided an electromagnetic cooker 200 for performing electromagnetic induction heating, and a rice cooker part 100 laid on the electromagnetic cooker during rice cooking. The electromagnetic cooker performs a rice cooking operation by a control signal from the rice cooker part, and stops a rice cooking operation when the control signal is not received over a prescribed time.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

  The present embodiment relates to a rice cooker.

  In recent years, IH rice cookers have become widespread. IH is electromagnetic induction heating (Induction Heating). An IH rice cooker is a rice cooker of a system which generates an electromagnetic wave by the IH coil installed in the bottom part, generates heat from a rice cooker by the electromagnetic wave, and cooks rice.

  Moreover, the rice cooker which can cook rice by mounting a rice cooker part in an IH cooker (electromagnetic cooker) is also known (patent document 1).

  In the rice cooker disclosed in Patent Document 1, a separately installed rice cooker is mounted on an IH cooker that can be used for multiple purposes, and the rice cooker on the rice cooker side is heated by the IH coil on the IH cooker side to cook rice. It is supposed to be.

Patent No. 6080472

  In the rice cooker which concerns on patent document 1, when the control signal for performing rice cooking control is not transmitted normally, such as adjusting a heating power, for example during cooking operation, IH cooker should perform predetermined rice cooking operation correctly There was a risk that

  In this embodiment, even if the control signal for performing the rice cooking control is not properly transmitted during the rice cooking operation, the rice cooking which can prevent the situation where the IH cooker can not properly perform the predetermined rice cooking operation can be avoided. The purpose is to provide

  According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the electromagnetic cooker for performing electromagnetic induction heating, and the rice cooker unit mounted on the electromagnetic cooker at the time of rice cooking, the electromagnetic cooker being the rice cooker unit There is provided a rice cooker configured to perform a rice cooking operation according to a control signal from the controller and to stop the rice cooking operation when the control signal can not be received for a predetermined time.

  According to the present embodiment, even when the control signal for performing the rice cooking control is not properly transmitted during the rice cooking operation, the situation where the IH cooker can not properly perform the predetermined rice cooking operation can be avoided. It is possible to provide a can cooker.

The perspective view of the IH rice cooker which concerns on embodiment. The perspective view of the rice cooker part with which the IH rice cooker shown by FIG. 1 is equipped. Sectional drawing of the rice cooker part shown by FIG. The perspective view of the IH cooker with which the IH rice cooker shown by FIG. 1 is equipped. The perspective view of the state which removed the top plate of the IH cooker shown by FIG. Sectional drawing of the IH cooker shown by FIG. Sectional drawing of IH rice cooker which concerns on embodiment. The perspective view of the bottom of IH rice cooker shown by FIG. The enlarged view to which the weight sensor part shown by FIG. 7 was expanded. The schematic circuit block diagram of the IH rice cooker which concerns on embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the operation part with which the IH rice cooker which concerns on embodiment is equipped, (a) Rice cooker operation part, (b) measurement display part. The screen transition figure of the measurement display part shown by FIG.11 (b). The side view of the IH rice cooker which concerns on embodiment. The bottom view of the IH rice cooker shown by FIG. The circuit block diagram of the weight sensor with which the IH rice cooker which concerns on embodiment is equipped. The circuit block diagram of the single load cell shown by FIG. Explanatory drawing which shows the operation example of IH rice cooker which concerns on embodiment. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the overcooking prevention process performed with an IH rice cooker which concerns on embodiment. The flowchart which shows the subroutine of IH stop processing in the overcooking prevention processing. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the empty cooking detection process performed with IH rice cooker which concerns on a 1st structural example. The flowchart which shows the subroutine of IH stop processing in empty cooking detection processing. The graph which shows the temperature curve etc. of the normal rice cooking state of 0.5 combination by IH rice cooker which concerns on a 1st structural example. The graph which shows the temperature curve of the empty cooking rice cooking state by IH rice cooker which concerns on the 1st structural example. The graph which expanded a part of temperature curves etc. of FIG. The graph which shows the temperature curve of the empty cooking rice cooking (800W) state by IH rice cooker which concerns on the 1st structural example. A chart showing an example of the optimum amount of water for the amount of rice. The IH rice cooker which concerns on a 2nd structural example WHEREIN: The table | surface which shows the example of a table of the weighting coefficient of the optimal water volume at the time of non-washing rice and white rice being selected. The table | surface which shows the example of a table of the weighting coefficient of the optimal water volume when early cooking and energy saving are selected in IH rice cooker which concerns on a 2nd structural example. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the measurement rice cooking process performed with IH rice cooker which concerns on a 2nd structural example. The flowchart which shows the continuation of the processing procedure of the measurement rice cooking process performed with IH rice cooker which concerns on a 2nd structural example. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of w1, w2, w3 calculation processing in the measurement rice cooking process of FIG. The flowchart which shows the continuation of the processing procedure of the measurement rice cooking process performed with IH rice cooker which concerns on a 2nd structural example. The flowchart which shows the continuation of the processing procedure of the measurement rice cooking process performed with IH rice cooker which concerns on a 2nd structural example. The flowchart which shows the continuation of the processing procedure of the measurement rice cooking process performed with IH rice cooker which concerns on a 2nd structural example. The flowchart which shows the continuation of the processing procedure of the measurement rice cooking process performed with IH rice cooker which concerns on a 2nd structural example. The flowchart which shows the weight sensor zero point adjustment operation of the IH rice cooker which concerns on embodiment. The flowchart which shows the weight sensor control operation of the IH rice cooker which concerns on embodiment. The flowchart which shows operation | movement of the IH cooker with which the IH rice cooker which concerns on embodiment is equipped.

  Next, an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals.

  In addition, the embodiments shown below exemplify devices and methods for embodying the technical idea, and do not specify the materials, shapes, structures, arrangements and the like of the components to the following ones. . This embodiment can be variously modified within the scope of the claims.

[Exemplary configuration of IH rice cooker]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an IH rice cooker (electromagnetic rice cooker) 1 according to the embodiment. This IH rice cooker 1 is an IH jar rice cooker that enables separation of a main body and an IH part by wireless communication and power supply using rice cooking technology by IH.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, the IH rice cooker 1 can be vertically separated into a rice cooker unit 100 and an IH cooker (electromagnetic cooker) 200. Although the appearance is a jar rice cooker, when the rice cooker unit 100 is removed, the operation unit of the IH cooker 200 appears. The IH cooker 200 side can be used alone for IH cooking, and the rice cooker part 100 side can be easily carried to the table as a chopsticks.

  Moreover, IH rice cooker 1 which concerns on embodiment is provided with an automatic measurement function. As a result, "the optimal amount of water is notified" according to the amount of rice cooked and the brand of rice, it is possible to cook delicious rice anytime and enjoy the characteristics of rice more.

  Moreover, IH rice cooker 1 which concerns on embodiment is equipped with the brand-name cooking division function of rice. Thereby, for rice brand of rice and rice cooking of each menu, time of electric power and rice cooking process can be controlled from temperature sensor information, and delicious rice can be cooked.

[Example of configuration of rice cooker section]
Hereinafter, the configuration of the rice cooker unit 100 will be described in detail.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the rice cooker unit 100 provided in the IH rice cooker 1 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the rice cooker unit 100 includes a lid 100A, a rice cooker body 100B, and a bottom 100C. A rice cooker operation unit 101 for operating the rice cooker unit 100 is provided on the top surface of the lid unit 100A. On the front surface of the rice cooker body 100B, a weighing display unit 102 for displaying the weight of rice or water is provided. The external appearance of the rice cooker unit 100 is substantially rectangular. It is desirable that the front surface of the rice cooker body 100B be slightly inclined in order to make the user easily see the weighing display unit 102.

  The outer edge of the bottom portion 100C is structured to fit with the outer edge of the top surface of the IH cooker 200. Specifically, the case on the side of the rice cooker unit 100 and the case on the side of the IH cooker 200 overlap by about 8.5 mm. Since the installation area of the IH cooker 200 and the installation area of the rice cooker unit 100 are substantially the same, the upper and lower casings match exactly, the appearance is smart, and space saving can be achieved. The outer edge of the top surface of the IH cooker 200 and the outer edge of the bottom 100C may be tapered as a device for the upper and lower fitting, or R may be different between the front and rear in order to eliminate front and back errors.

  FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the rice cooker unit 100 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the front side of the lid 100 </ b> A pivots in the vertical direction with the lid hinge 129 provided on the rear side as a fulcrum. A lid lock mechanism 124 is provided at the opposing position between the front lid portion 100A and the rice cooker main body 100B. The inner pot (rice cooker) 121 is accommodated from the upper opening of the rice cooker body 100B. A heat insulating material and a protective frame are provided around the inner hook 121, and a thermistor 131 for measuring the temperature is provided at the bottom of the inner hook 121. The steam generated in the inner pot 121 is discharged to the outside through a steam cylinder 128 provided on the inner lid 127. A handle for carrying the rice cooker unit 100 is rotatably provided on the side wall of the rice cooker body 100B.

  In the vicinity of the rice cooker operation unit 101, a rice cooker operation substrate 126 for controlling the rice cooker operation unit 101 is disposed. In the vicinity of the weighing display unit 102, a weighing display board 123 for controlling the display content on the weighing display unit 102 is disposed. Below the measurement display substrate 123, an interface substrate 122 to which a communication terminal 112 and a power reception coil are connected is disposed. The communication terminal 112 constitutes a communication means, and is a terminal for wireless communication with the IH cooker 200.

  The power receiving coil is a coil for receiving power by electromagnetic induction from the power supply coil on the IH cooker 200 side.

  In addition, although the case where the thermistor 131 is provided in the bottom of the rice cooker part 100 is illustrated here, it is not limited to this. For example, the thermistor 131 may be provided on the side surface of the rice cooker unit 100 or may be provided on the inner lid 127.

[Configuration example of IH cooker]
The configuration of the IH cooker 200 will be described in detail below.

  FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the IH cooker 200 provided in the IH rice cooker 1 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the IH cooker 200 is a tabletop electromagnetic cooker that is used by being placed on a table or the like, and has a thin, substantially rectangular parallelepiped appearance. A top plate 200B made of crystallized glass or the like is disposed to close the upper opening of the IH cooker body 200A. On the front side of the top surface of the IH cooker 200, an IH operation unit 201 having a power button, a temperature adjustment button, and the like is provided. The top plate 200B and the IH operation unit 201 are arranged so as not to overlap each other in plan view. On the rear side of the IH cooker 200, a socket is provided for detachably mounting a plug of a power cord with a magnet.

  FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the IH cooker 200 shown in FIG. 4 from which the top plate 200B is removed. As shown in FIG. 5, when the top plate 200B on the IH cooker body 200A is removed, the IH coil 211, the power supply coil 212, the communication terminal 213, and the reed switch 214 appear. The IH coil 211 is a heating coil that electromagnetically heats an object to be heated. The power supply coil 212 is a coil for supplying power to the power supply coil on the rice cooker unit 100 side by electromagnetic induction. The communication terminal 213 is a terminal for wirelessly communicating with the rice cooker unit 100. The reed switch 214 is a switch that operates when the magnet approaches. The action of these members will be described later.

  6 is a cross-sectional view of the IH cooker 200 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, the IH coil 211 is arrange | positioned in the upper part of the approximate center of IH cooker main body 200A. The heat generated inside the IH cooker main body 200A is exhausted to the outside by the fan 221. The IH operation board 224 which controls the input from the IH operation part 201 is arrange | positioned on the front side of the upper part of the IH cooking device main body 200A. In the vicinity thereof, a main substrate 225 for controlling the heating of the IH is disposed. Four pedestals 223 protrude from the four corners of the bottom of the IH cooker body 200A to the outer surface. The pedestal portion 223 is capable of attaching a weight sensor in correspondence with mold nesting.

[Example of weight sensor configuration]
Hereinafter, the configuration of the weight sensor will be described in detail.

  FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the IH rice cooker 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the bottom of the IH rice cooker 1 shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of the weight sensor portion (base portion 223) shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 to 9, strain gauges 223B are provided on pedestals 223 at the four corners, and weight measurement is performed. Specifically, the strain gauge 223B, the weight sensor pedestal 223C, and the rubber foot 223D are attached to the base member 223A and fixed by the weight sensor cover 223E. When the rice cooker unit 100 is mounted on the IH cooker 200, the rubber foot 223D pushes up the entire weight sensor pedestal 223C to deform the strain gauge 223B. Thus, the weight sensor substrate 224a (see FIG. 10) measures the weight based on the strain of each strain gauge 223B.

[Example of schematic circuit configuration of rice cooker]
FIG. 10 is a schematic circuit diagram of the IH rice cooker 1 according to the embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 10, on the side of the rice cooker unit 100 of the IH rice cooker 1, an interface substrate 122 and a rice cooker operation substrate 126 connected to the interface substrate 122 are disposed.

  The interface board 122 communicates with the IH cooker 200, and the rice cooker operation board 126 operates the rice cooker section and operates the IH cooker 200 via the communication means 300.

  Here, the interface substrate 122 is provided with a third control unit (third control means) 500 b that includes the microcomputer MCU 3 and controls the cooking operation and the like of the rice cooker unit 100.

  Further, the rice cooker operation substrate 126 is provided with a fourth control unit (fourth control means) 500 a that includes the microcomputer MCU 4 and controls the cooking operation and the like of the rice cooker unit 100.

  The third control unit (third control means) 500b or the fourth control unit (fourth control means) 500a may be provided only on at least one of the interface board 122 and the rice cooker operation board 126. .

  The interface substrate 122 includes a weighing display substrate 123 formed of a liquid crystal display or the like, a thermistor 131 for detecting temperature, a communication terminal 112 which constitutes a part of communication means 300 for performing wireless communication (infrared communication etc.), IH cooking A power receiving coil 113 which receives supply of power from the unit 200 side is connected.

  Further, on the IH cooker 200 side, an IH operation substrate 224 and a main substrate (for IH heating) 225 connected to the IH operation substrate 224 are disposed.

  Here, the IH operation board 224 is provided with a first control unit (first control means) 400 a which includes the microcomputer MCU 1 and controls the IH cooker 200 in accordance with a control signal.

  Further, the main substrate 225 is provided with a second control unit (second control means) 400 b which includes the microcomputer MCU 2 and controls the IH cooker 200 in accordance with a control signal.

  The IH operation board 224 is supplied with power to the weight sensor board 224a to which the strain gauge 223B is connected, the communication terminal 213 which constitutes a part of the communication means 300 for performing wireless communication (infrared communication etc.), and the rice cooker unit 100 side. A reed switch 214 which is turned on / off by a power supply coil 212 and a magnet 111 disposed on the rice cooker unit 100 side is connected.

  Connected to the main substrate 225 are an IH coil 211, a magnet plug 226 of AC 100 V, and a thermistor 231 for detecting a temperature.

  The IH operation board 224 also serves as a detection means for detecting a control signal received through the communication terminal 213.

  Here, in the IH rice cooker 1 according to the present embodiment, the first control unit 400a (microcomputer MCU1) when the control signal is not detected for a predetermined time by the detection means (IH operation board 224). Alternatively, the second control unit 400b (microcomputer MCU2) is controlled to stop the operation of the IH cooker 200.

  As a result, even when the control signal for performing the rice cooking control is not properly transmitted during the rice cooking operation, it is possible to avoid the situation where the IH cooker can not properly perform the predetermined rice cooking operation.

  Further, in the first control unit 400a (microcomputer MCU1) or the second control unit 400b (microcomputer MCU2), the control signal for adjusting the thermal power (electric power) of the IH cooker 200 was not detected by the detection means. In such a case, control can be performed to stop the operation of the IH cooker 200.

  Thereby, even if the control signal for performing the rice cooking control is not properly transmitted during the rice cooking operation, the situation where the IH cooker can not properly perform the predetermined rice cooking operation can be avoided more reliably. Can.

  Further, in any of the first control unit 400a (microcomputer MCU1) and the second control unit 400b (microcomputer MCU2), the control signal received through the communication means (communication terminals 112 and 213) is IH cooking If it is determined that the instruction is to stop the cooking vessel 200, or if it is determined that the signal indicates that an abnormality has occurred in the rice cooker unit 100, control is performed to stop the operation of the IH cooker 200 You may do so.

  As a result, it is possible to avoid a situation in which an operation not intended by the operator is performed by detecting the stop instruction of the IH cooker 200 and the abnormality signal of the rice cooker unit 100.

  When a communication failure due to the communication means 300 (communication terminals 112 and 213) is detected on the interface substrate 122 side, the microcomputer MCU 3 (third control unit 500b) of the interface substrate 122 performs IH operation of the IH cooker 200 The cooking operation stop signal is transmitted from the substrate 224 and the IH operation substrate 224 in the order of the main substrate 225, and based on the cooking operation stop signal, the IH is controlled by the microcomputer MCU2 (second control unit 400b) included in the main substrate 225. The operation of the cooker 200 can be stopped.

  Furthermore, when a communication failure due to the communication means 300 (communication terminals 112 and 213) is detected on the IH operation board 224 side, the microcomputer MCU1 (first control unit 400a) of the IH operation board 224 to the IH cooker 200 The cooking operation stop signal is transmitted to the main substrate 225, and based on the cooking operation stop signal, the operation of the IH cooker 200 is stopped by the control of the microcomputer MCU 2 (second control unit 400b) included in the main substrate 225. May be

  In addition, when the main board 225 side detects a communication failure due to the communication means 300 (communication terminals 112 and 213), the microcomputer MCU2 (second control unit 400b) of the main board 225 detects the rice cooking operation stop signal. The operation of the IH cooker 200 may be stopped.

  Thus, the IH cooker can properly perform a predetermined cooking operation even when the control signal for performing the cooking control is not properly transmitted during the cooking operation, regardless of the location where the communication failure occurs. It is possible to surely avoid the impossible situation.

  In addition, the detailed processing procedure of these stop control etc. is mentioned later.

  As shown in FIG. 10, a power cord is connected to the main substrate 225 of the IH cooker 200 via the magnet plug 226. When the rice cooker unit 100 is mounted on the IH cooker 200, the detection magnet 111 on the rice cooker unit 100 side turns on the reed switch 214 on the IH cooker 200 side.

  In this state, the main substrate 225 of the IH cooker 200 applies a drive signal to the power supply coil 212 via the IH operation substrate 224. As a result, an electric power signal is generated in the electric power receiving coil 113 on the rice cooker unit 100 side by the electromagnetic induction action, and is applied to the measurement display substrate 123, the rice cooker operation substrate 126, etc. via the interface substrate 122. As a result, wireless communication such as infrared communication becomes possible via the communication terminal 213 on the IH cooker 200 side and the communication terminal 112 on the rice cooker unit 100 side.

  When the rice cooker operation unit 101 (see FIG. 2) is operated in this state, the operation signal is transmitted from the rice cooker operation board 126 to the main board 225 on the IH cooker 200 side via the communication terminals 112 and 213. . The main substrate 225 controls the start and stop of the current supply to the IH coil 211 based on the received operation signal, and controls the current value of the high frequency current flowing through the IH coil 211. In this control, weight information of food to be cooked (such as rice and water) obtained from the weight sensor substrate 224a and temperature information of the inner pot 121 obtained from the thermistor 131 can be used. The weight information can also be displayed on the weighing display unit 102 (see FIG. 2) via the weighing display substrate 123 on the rice cooker unit 100 side.

  Since the top surface of the IH cooker 200 is exposed when the rice cooker unit 100 is not mounted on the IH cooker 200, the IH operation unit 201 (see FIG. 4) can be operated. When the IH operation unit 201 is operated, the operation signal is transmitted from the IH operation board 224 to the main board 225. That is, since the operation part 201 of the IH cooker 200 appears when the rice cooker part 100 is removed from the IH cooker 200, the IH cooker 200 side can be independently used for IH cooking.

[Configuration Example of Operation Unit]
FIG. 11 is an explanatory view of an operation unit provided in the IH rice cooker 1 according to the embodiment.

  Specifically, FIG. 11A shows the rice cooker operation unit 101 provided on the top surface of the rice cooker unit 100. The rice cooker operation unit 101 includes, in addition to the display unit D1, various buttons such as a menu button B1, a heat retention / cancel button B2, a rice brand button B3, and a rice cook button B4. The display unit D1 is a display device that displays the setting status and the like of the IH rice cooker 1. The menu button B1 is a button for selecting how to cook and the like. The heat retention / cancellation button B2 is a button for instructing heat retention and its cancellation. The US brand button B3 is a button for selecting a brand of rice. By pressing the US brand button B3, it is possible to select a brand such as Koshi Hikari, Akitakomachi, Glossy Hime, Yumepirika, Hitomebore, Hinohikari and the like. The rice cooking button B4 is a button for instructing rice cooking.

  Moreover, FIG.11 (b) has shown the measurement display part 102 provided in the front of the rice cooker part 100. As shown in FIG. The weighing display unit 102 includes a weighing button B11 in addition to the display unit D11. The display unit D11 is a display device that displays measurement values and the like. The measurement button B11 is a button for instructing use of the measurement mode or the like.

[Outline of weighing operation example]
Hereinafter, an outline of the weighing operation example will be described.

  First, the user selects the menu, hardness and rice brand in the rice cooker operation unit 101, opens the lid portion 100A of the rice cooker unit 100, and puts the rice in the inner pot 121. Next, the weighing button B11 of the weighing display unit 102 is pressed (the rice weight is navigated by display), the inner pot 121 is taken out and washed, then the inner pot 121 is set in the rice cooker part 100, and then the inner pot 121 Put the water into (the amount of water is navigated by the display and sound). Here, in order to make the user recognize the use of the weighing mode, the weighing button B11 is pressed. However, when the lid 100A is opened, the weighing mode may be automatically switched. Finally, when the lid portion 100A of the rice cooker unit 100 is closed and the rice cooking button B4 of the rice cooker operation unit 101 is pressed, rice cooking is started.

[Details of weighing operation example]
FIG. 12 is a screen transition diagram of the weighing display unit 102 shown in FIG.

  First, when the user puts rice in the inner pot 121 in the weighing mode, the weight of rice is measured. Here, when the weight of rice is equal to or less than the specified range, as shown in FIG. 12A, the display section D11 displays “insert rice and press the measurement button” or the like (the measurement button B11 blinks). In addition, although zero point adjustment is performed in the state which mounted the inner pot 121 in the rice cooker main body 100B before entering into measurement mode, the detail is mentioned later. On the other hand, when the weight of rice is larger than the allowable weight, as shown in FIG. 12B, an error is displayed on the display section D11 (the weighing button B11 is turned off).

  Then, when the user presses the weighing button B11, the rice weight is fixed, and the mode shifts to the water weighing mode. However, if the measured rice weight is out of the specified weight range, it does not shift to the water measurement mode, and the rice measurement mode remains. If there is no problem, as shown in FIG. 12C, the display unit D11 displays "(After washing), put in water," or the like. At this time, the required water amount is displayed on the display unit D11.

  Next, when the rice is washed (if the rice is not washed, this step is unnecessary) and water is added by a cup not shown, the water weight is measured, and as shown in FIG. The required amount of water displayed on the display unit D11 decreases. When the water weight falls within the optimum range, it makes a beep once, and when it falls outside the optimum range, it makes a double beep. In the optimum value range, as shown in FIG. 12 (e), “0” etc. are displayed on the display D11, and when the optimum value range is passed, “water” is displayed on the display D11 as shown in FIG. 12 (f). To reduce the

  Finally, when the lid 100A is closed, the weighing display is turned off. When the rice cooking button B4 (or the rice cooking button B4 after reservation) is pressed in this state, rice cooking is started.

[Arrangement relationship of weight detection legs to center of gravity position of rice cooker]
In order to cook delicious rice with a rice cooker, it is important to feed an optimal amount of water to the total number (weight) of rice. Therefore, as the weight sensor, it is necessary to use one having high detection accuracy (specifically, one having accuracy on the order of grams).

  When it is going to actually adjust the amount of water precisely in a rice cooker, if it carries out lid closing one by one and weighs, it will take time, and operativity will also become troublesome. In such a case, it is desirable to measure the weight with the lid open.

  The IH rice cooker 1 which concerns on this Embodiment is made to be able to perform highly accurate weight measurement of a gram order, even in the state which opened the cover.

  Here, if it is possible to measure the weight with one weight detection leg, it is ideal in terms of cost / design. However, for example, if there is unevenness on the installation surface and the weight detection leg is at that position, the weight detection leg may float from the installation surface and it may not be possible to measure the weight.

  In addition, at least three legs basically provide body stability. However, with the three legs, when the lid is opened or the lid is opened, the rice cooker body becomes weak, particularly in the lateral direction. In addition, since the same problem as the above generate | occur | produces when one of them is made into a weight detection leg, two or more weight detection legs are needed.

  Use four or more legs to eliminate these instability factors. By doing so, compared to the three legs, it is possible to suppress the front / rear and left / right, especially the lateral / lateral instability / unstableness. Also, if four of them are used as weight detection legs (especially if at least two weight detection legs are provided on the hinge side), temporary weight detection legs will be installed while absorbing the instability / unevenness at lid opening. The weight measurement can be covered by the remaining weight detection legs even if they are separated from the surface. This makes it possible to achieve gram-order high-accuracy weight measurement even when the lid is open.

(Example of weight measurement configuration)
FIG. 13 is a side view of the IH rice cooker 1 according to the embodiment. When the lock by the lid lock mechanism 124 (see FIG. 3) is released, the front side of the lid 100A pivots upward about the rotation shaft 129a of the lid hinge 129 as a fulcrum, and stands substantially upright. . The center of gravity of the IH rice cooker 1 with the lid 100A opened is G.

  FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the IH rice cooker 1 shown in FIG. Here, the case where four pedestal parts 223 are provided at the four corners of the bottom of the IH rice cooker 1 is illustrated. Weight sensors are attached to all the four pedestals 223. In the following description, the pedestal 223 is referred to as a weight detection leg 223. When the four weight detection legs 223 are distinguished, they are referred to as weight detection legs 223A, 223B, 223C, 223D.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the two weight detection legs 223C and 223D are located at both ends of the lid hinge 129 side with respect to the center of gravity G with respect to the direction of the rotation axis 129a. On the other hand, the two weight detection legs 223A and 223B are located on the opposite side of the lid hinge 129 with respect to the center of gravity G and at both ends with respect to the direction of the rotation shaft 129a. Let L1 and L2 be two virtual diagonals of the square formed by the weight detection legs 223A, 223B, 223C and 223D, and let P be an intersection of the two virtual diagonals L1 and L2. In this case, the center of gravity G is preferably closer to the lid hinge 129 than the intersection point P of the two virtual diagonals L1 and L2.

  Specifically, a triangular area formed by the intersection point P and the weight detection legs 223A and 223B is referred to as "area E1". When the center of gravity G exists inside the region E1, it is easily affected by the deviation of rice and the vibration due to the water injection, and it becomes easy to shake in the front-rear direction.

  Further, a triangular area formed by the intersection point P and the weight detection legs 223B and 223C is referred to as "area E2". When the center of gravity G exists inside the region E2, when the lid 100A is opened or in a state where the lid 100A is opened, it becomes easy to shake in the left-right direction.

  Further, a triangular area formed by the intersection point P and the weight detection legs 223D and 223A is referred to as "area E4". Even when the center of gravity G exists inside the region E4, when the lid 100A is opened or in a state where the lid 100A is opened, it is easy to shake in the left-right direction.

  Finally, a triangular area formed by the intersection point P and the weight detection legs 223C and 223D is referred to as "area E3". When the center of gravity G exists inside the region E3, the center of gravity G is closer to the lid hinge 129 than the intersection point P of the two virtual diagonals L1 and L2, so that it is difficult to shake in the front-rear direction or the left-right direction.

  Therefore, each component is arranged so that the center of gravity G comes to the inside of the area E3. Here, the inner pot 121, the IH coil 211, and the like, which are heavy objects, are disposed closer to the rear of the IH rice cooker 1. As a result, the center of gravity G of the IH rice cooker 1 with the lid 100A opened can be disposed immediately below the center O of the inner pot 121 (see FIG. 13). Here, the center O of the inner hook 121 means the volume center (space center) of the inner hook 121.

  Although the case where the four weight detection legs 223 are provided is illustrated here, even in the case where the four or more weight detection legs 223 are provided, the inside of the triangular region including the two hinge side weight detection legs at the top is similarly It is good if there is a center of gravity G. The two hinge-side weight detection legs are weight detection legs located on both ends of the lid hinge 129 side with respect to the center of gravity G with respect to the direction of the rotation shaft 129a. Also in this case, since the point of the center of gravity G is closer to the lid hinge 129 than the intersection point of the virtual diagonal lines, it is difficult to wander in the longitudinal direction as well as in the lateral direction.

(Example of weighing operation)
At the start of the operation of the IH rice cooker 1, the weight sensor is adjusted to the zero point while the cover 100A is open. Moreover, after performing zero point adjustment, the weight of the to-be-cooked food accommodated in the inner pot 121 is measured in the state which lid | cover part 100A is open. Of course, the zero point adjustment of the weight sensor may be performed with the lid 100A closed, or the weight of the food to be cooked stored in the inner pot 121 may be measured. However, these processes do not take time and are easier to perform when performed with the lid 100A open.

  That is, the user adjusts the amount of water of the inner pot 121 set in the rice cooker unit 100 while looking at the weighing display unit 102 (see FIG. 2) provided on the front surface of the rice cooker unit 100. For example, when the inner pot 121 is filled with water too much, water is scooped out of the inner pot 121 until the amount of water becomes appropriate while looking at the measurement display unit 102. Even when the lid portion 100A is open, it is important to be able to stably measure the weight by eliminating the fluctuation in the front and rear, right and left directions.

(Example of weight sensor circuit configuration)
Next, a weight sensor circuit configuration example will be described. In the above description, the weight of the food is calculated by averaging the sensor values of the weight sensors at the four corners, but the invention is not limited to this. That is, it is also possible to calculate the weight of the food to be cooked by the sum of the sensor values of the weight sensors at the four corners.

  FIG. 15 is a circuit diagram of a weight sensor provided in the IH rice cooker 1 according to the embodiment, and FIG. 16 is a circuit diagram of a single load cell shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 15, this weight sensor includes load cells SEL1 to SEL4, a differential amplifier circuit 11, an A / D converter (12 bits) 12, a CPU 13, and an RC smoothing circuit 14. The load cells SEL1 to SEL4 are formed by connecting four single load cells in series as shown in FIG. A total minute voltage signal of four single load cells is output.

  First, the basic circuit operation will be described. A minute voltage signal (analog small signal) corresponding to the applied weight (distortion amount) is output from the bridge connection of the load cells SEL1 to SEL4. This minute voltage signal is voltage amplified by the differential amplifier circuit 11, the amplified analog voltage signal is converted into a digital signal by the A / D converter 12, and the superimposed data is transmitted to the CPU 13 by I2C communication.

  Next, offset adjustment (microcomputer control) by the CPU 13 will be described. The necessary range of the weight measurement is “a state where the empty inner pot 121 is put (about 5 kg)” to “a state where three sets of rice and water are put in the inner pot 121 (about 6 kg)”. Therefore, when the strain gauge is mounted on the weight detection leg 223, it is necessary to measure from zero g to 6 kg, and the measurement accuracy in the range of 5 kg to 6 kg is lowered. Further, in the vicinity of the output zero V of the differential amplifier circuit 11, the measurement accuracy is reduced due to the influence of noise and the like.

  In order to solve these problems, the CPU 13 uses a PWM signal so that the output voltage of the differential amplifier circuit 11 is in the range of 1 V to 1.5 V when “in the state where the empty inner pot 121 is inserted (approximately 5 kg)”. Output In the process of factory inspection, it is made to carry out individual adjustment individually. In addition, the CPU 13 is configured such that the output voltage of the differential amplifier circuit 11 is approximately Vcc-1 V when “a state where approximately 3 kg of rice and water are put in the inner pot 121 (about 6 kg)”. Adjust the gain. As a result, measurement accuracy in the necessary measurement range (5 kg to 6 kg) can be secured, and a weight sensor that is not easily affected by noise or the like can be realized.

  As described above, the IH rice cooker 1 according to the embodiment has the main body in which the inner hook 121 is detachably accommodated, the lid 100A provided on the main body so as to be opened and closed, and the lid 100A. A lid hinge 129 having a rotary shaft 129a provided on the upper part of the main body, and four or more legs provided on the bottom of the main body, at least four of the legs being weight detection legs 223 for detecting weight The weight detection legs 223 are two hinge side weight detection legs 223C, which are located at both ends of the lid hinge 129 side with respect to the rotation shaft 129a direction with respect to the center of gravity G of the IH rice cooker 1 with the lid 100A opened. 223H and two reverse hinge side weight detection legs 223A and 223B located at both ends on the opposite side of the lid hinge 129 to the direction of the rotation shaft 129a, and the IH cooker with the lid 100A opened. The center of gravity G of the container 1 is a lid hinge 129 with respect to an intersection point P of two virtual diagonal lines L1 and L2 formed by two hinge side weight detection legs 223C and 223D and two reverse hinge side weight detection legs 223A and 223B. The weight is measured using the four weight detection legs 223 with the lid 100A being positioned on the side. As a result, there are two weight detection legs 223 on the lid hinge 129 side, and the center of gravity G is on the lid hinge 129 side from the intersection point P of the two imaginary diagonals L1 and L2. Weight can be measured.

  In addition, the center of gravity G of the IH rice cooker 1 in a state in which the lid portion 100A is opened may be disposed in the vicinity immediately below the center of the inner pot 121. As a result, the center of gravity G is disposed at the central portion of the inner hook 121, and hardly receives vibration due to deviation of rice or water injection.

  Further, at the start of the operation of the IH rice cooker 1, the zero point adjustment of the weight sensor may be performed in a state where the lid 100A is open. Thereby, it is possible to absorb the time-dependent change of the weight sensor in a state in which the lid 100A is open, and to maintain the weight measurement with high accuracy.

  Moreover, after performing zero point adjustment, you may measure the weight of the to-be-cooked food accommodated in the inner pot 121 in the state which lid | cover part 100A is open. Thus, the amount of water can be precisely adjusted in a state where the lid 100A is open, so that it is not necessary to close the lid 100A and measure the weight one by one, and the operation is simple.

  In addition, although the IH rice cooker 1 of the up-and-down separation type was illustrated and explained here, arrangement relation of a weight detection leg to the gravity center position of a rice cooker as mentioned above is applied to a general rice cooker which does not separate up and down It can also be applied to microcomputer-type rice cookers.

[Example of cooking operation]
An operation example of the IH rice cooker 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 19.

  Here, FIG. 17 is an explanatory view showing an operation example of the IH rice cooker 1 according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 18 is a processing procedure of overcooking prevention processing executed in the IH rice cooker 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of IH stop processing in overcooking prevention processing.

  First, an operation example of the IH rice cooker 1 will be described with reference to the explanatory view of FIG. In addition, about the structure similar to the structural example shown in FIG. 10 about the structure of IH rice cooker 1, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and the description which overlapped is abbreviate | omitted.

  Here, between the rice cooker unit 100 side and the IH cooker 200 side, transmission and reception of control signals D1a and D1b are performed via the communication terminals 112 and 213 as communication means.

  That is, a signal (data) D1b including a rice cooking start signal, a rice cooking operation stop signal, a thermal power adjustment signal and the like is transmitted from the rice cooker unit 100 side to the IH cooker 200 side.

  Further, a signal (data) D1a including weight sensor information, error information of the IH cooker 200, and the like is transmitted from the IH cooker 200 to the rice cooker unit 100 side.

  Then, in the example shown in FIG. 17, it is assumed that the signal line A1 between the interface board 122 on the rice cooker unit 100 side and the rice cooker operation board 126 is broken.

  Thus, originally, the signal D2 indicating the temperature of the pot detected by the thermistor 131 is transmitted to the rice cooker operation board 126 via the signal line A1, but the signal D2 is broken due to the disconnection of the signal line A1. Transmission to the rice cooker operation board 126 side is interrupted.

  Here, if it is a normal state, signals D3 (D3a to D3c) of thermal power adjustment are transmitted from the rice cooker operation board 126 to the main board 225 via the communication means 300 based on the signal D2 indicating the temperature of the kettle. The power of the IH coil 211 is adjusted, and optimal rice cooking is performed.

  However, when disconnection occurs in the signal line A1 as described above, the rice cooker operation board 126 acquires the temperature of the kettle because the signal D2 indicating the temperature of the kettle is not transmitted to the rice cooker operation board 126 side. It will be in the state where the signal D3 of the normal thermal power adjustment is not output.

  Therefore, the thermal power adjustment of the IH coil 211 can not be properly performed, which causes a problem such as excessive rice cooking.

  Therefore, in the IH rice cooker 1 according to the present embodiment, the control signal can be received for a predetermined time by the control of either the first control unit 400a or the second control unit 400b (microcomputers MCU1 and MCU2). If not, control is performed to stop the operation of the IH cooker 200.

  Thus, even if the control signal for performing the rice cooking control is not properly transmitted during the rice cooking operation, it is possible to avoid overcooking of rice or the like.

  In addition, when the control signal for adjusting the heating power is not detected by the control of any of the first control unit 400a and the second control unit 400b (microcomputers MCU1 and MCU2), the operation of the IH cooker 200 is performed. You may make it stop.

  As a result, even if the control signal for performing the rice cooking control is not properly transmitted during the rice cooking operation, it is possible to more reliably avoid overcooking of rice or the like.

  Further, for control of the first control unit 400a and the second control unit 400b (microcomputers MCU1 and MCU2), the control signal received via the communication means 300 (communication terminals 112 and 213) makes the IH cooker 200 When it is determined that the instruction is to stop the operation, or when it is determined that the signal indicates that the rice cooker unit 100 has an abnormality, control may be performed to stop the operation of the IH cooker 200. .

  Thus, it is possible to avoid overcooking of rice and the like by the stop instruction of the IH cooker 200 and the detection of the abnormality signal of the rice cooker unit 100.

  The UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter) included in the rice cooker operation board 126 and the interface board 122 is a device for mutually converting data of the serial transfer method and data of the parallel transfer method.

  Further, SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) included in the IH operation board 224 and the main board 225 is a type of serial bus connecting the IH operation board 224 and the main board 225 with each other.

  Further, a ROM storing a predetermined program is mounted on each of the substrates 122, 126, 224, 225. The microcomputers MCU1 to MCU4 execute various programs by executing predetermined programs stored in the ROM.

  Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 18, the processing procedure of the overcooking prevention process performed by the IH rice cooker 1 which concerns on this Embodiment is demonstrated.

  In the overcooking prevention process, it is determined in step S301 whether the control signal is a thermal power adjustment signal.

  Then, when the determination result is "No", the process proceeds to step S303, and it is determined whether or not it is within a predetermined time. If the determination result is "Yes", the process returns to step S301, and if "No", that is, if it is determined that the predetermined time has been exceeded, the process proceeds to a subroutine of IH stop processing in step S304.

  If it is determined "Yes" in step S301, the timer is reset to 0 in step S302, and the process returns to step S301.

  In the subroutine of IH stop processing (see FIG. 19), after the cooking operation stop signal is transmitted, the process returns to the main processing of FIG.

  Here, more specifically, for example, when a communication failure between the rice cooker operation board 126 and the interface board 122 (due to disconnection of the signal line, a soldering failure, etc.) is detected on the interface board 122 side, The cooking operation stop signal is transmitted from the microcomputer MCU 3 (third control unit 500b) of the interface board 122 in the order of the IH operation board 224 of the IH cooker 200 and the IH operation board 224 to the main board 225 in this order. Based on the signal, the operation of the IH cooker 200 can be stopped by the control of the microcomputer MCU 2 (second control unit 400 b) included in the main substrate 225.

  When a communication failure due to the communication means 300 (communication terminals 112 and 213) is detected on the IH operation board 224 side, the microcomputer MCU1 (first control unit 400a) of the IH operation board 224 starts the IH cooker 200. The cooking operation stop signal is transmitted to the main substrate 225, and based on the cooking operation stop signal, the operation of the IH cooker 200 is stopped by the control of the microcomputer MCU 2 (second control unit 400b) included in the main substrate 225. May be

  Also, when communication failure between the IH operation board 224 and the main board 225 is detected on the main board 225 side, the microcomputer MCU 2 (second control unit 400 b) of the main board 225 determines the cooking operation stop signal. The operation of the IH cooker 200 may be stopped.

  This makes it possible to reliably avoid overcooking of rice and the like regardless of the location where the communication failure occurs.

  The above-described overcooking prevention process is not limited to the microcomputer MCU3 (third control unit 500a), and the same process may be performed by the microcomputer MCU1 (first control unit 400a) and MCU2 (second control unit 400b). May be performed.

[About IH rice cooker according to the first configuration example]
By the way, when cooking using IH rice cooker, the case where rice cooking will be performed in the state which does not put rice in the rice cooker 121 by an operator's misunderstanding etc. is assumed.

  In such a case, since the IH rice cooker will be in an empty cooking state, it is necessary to automatically stop the operation of the IH cooker 200 to prevent empty cooking.

  Then, with reference to FIGS. 20-25, IH rice cooker 1a which concerns on the example of 1st structure which enabled it to prevent empty cooking is demonstrated.

  In addition, the hardware constitutions of IH rice cooker 1a are the same as that of IH rice cooker 1 which concerns on the above-mentioned this Embodiment.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the idle cooking detection process executed by the IH rice cooker 1a according to the first configuration example, and FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of IH stop processing in the idle cooking detection process.

  In the idle cooking detection process executed by the IH rice cooker 1a according to the first configuration example, the temperature rise degree in the idle cooking state is steeper than the temperature rise degree in the normal cooking state where rice is put in the rice cooker 121 It is the processing which performs the detection of empty cooking and the operation stop of IH cooking appliance 200 using things.

  Here, an example of the degree of temperature rise will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 22 is a graph showing a temperature curve etc. of a normal rice cooking state of 0.5 combination by the IH rice cooker 1a according to the first configuration example, and FIG. 23 is an empty rice cooking state with the IH rice cooker 1a according to the first configuration example The graph which shows the temperature curve etc., FIG. 24 is a graph which expanded a part of the temperature curve etc. of FIG. 23, FIG. 25 is the temperature of the empty rice cooking (800 W) state by IH rice cooker 1a concerning the 1st structural example It is a graph which shows a curve etc.

  In FIG. 22, the curve L1 shows the voltage of the thermistor (bottom temperature thermistor) 131 disposed at the bottom of the kettle, the curve L2 shows the ambient temperature, the curve L3 shows the top temperature of the kettle, and the curve L4 shows the bottom temperature of the kettle.

  In FIG. 23 and FIG. 24, curve L1 represents the voltage of the thermistor (tank bottom thermistor) 131 disposed at the bottom of the vessel, curve L10 represents the ambient temperature, curve L11 represents the upper edge temperature of the pot, and curve L12 represents the bottom of the pot The temperatures are shown respectively.

  Further, in FIG. 25, the curve L20 represents the voltage of the thermistor (tank bottom thermistor) 131 disposed at the bottom, the curve L21 represents the ambient temperature, the curve L22 represents the upper pot temperature, and the curve L23 represents the bottom temperature. Show.

  Here, regarding the graph of FIG. 22 in the empty rice cooking state and FIG. 23 in the normal rice cooking state, the pot bottom temperature curve L12 in the empty rice cooking state is sharper as can be seen by comparing the pot bottom temperature curves L4 and L12. Has changed.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 24, the steep temperature change portion 500 of FIG. 23 is enlarged or the like, and a plurality of experiments are performed on the voltage of the bottom thermistor 131 and the change state of the bottom temperature corresponding to the voltage. We considered based on the data.

  As a result, when the transition time T from the point P11 of the thermistor voltage 1.98 V (65 ° C.) to the point P12 of the thermistor voltage 1.7 V (75 ° C.) is less than 30 seconds, it is possible to be an empty rice cooker The sex is high.

  For example, in the case of FIGS. 23 and 24, the transition time t1 from the point P11 of the thermistor voltage 1.98 V (65 ° C.) to the point P12 of the thermistor voltage 1.7 V (75 ° C.) is about 20 seconds. Since it is less than 30 seconds, it is determined that the rice is empty and cooked.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 25, when cooking with 800 W, the transition time t2 from the point P21 of the thermistor voltage 1.98 V (65 ° C.) to the point P22 of the thermistor voltage 1.7 V (75 ° C.) is about Since it is 15 seconds and less than 30 seconds, it is determined to be an empty cooking and cooking.

  On the other hand, in the case of FIG. 22, the transition time t10 from the point P1 of the thermistor voltage 1.98 V (65 ° C.) to the point P2 of the thermistor voltage 1.7 V (75 ° C.) is about 50 seconds, 30 seconds. Since it is above, it is judged that it is not empty cooking rice cooking.

  Based on such research results, the processing procedure (program) of the empty cooking detection processing as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 20 was devised.

  Here, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 20, the processing procedure of the empty cooking detection process performed by the IH rice cooker 1a which concerns on a 1st structural example is demonstrated.

  When this process is started, it is determined in step S401 whether "ST (temperature of inner pot (thermistor output)) 65 65 ° C".

  Then, if the determination result is "No", the process waits as it is, and if "Yes", the process proceeds to step S402, and the timer time T is reset to zero.

  Next, in step S403, it is determined whether ST> 75 ° C., and in the case of “No”, the process proceeds to step S404.

  In step S404, the timer time T is incremented by "one second", and the process returns to step S403.

  If “Yes” is determined in step S403, the process proceeds to step S405, and it is determined whether T <30 seconds.

  If the determination result is "No", the process returns to step S401. If the determination result is "Yes", the process proceeds to step S406 to execute the IH stop process subroutine, and then the process ends.

  As shown in FIG. 21, in the subroutine of the IH stop process, after the rice cooking operation stop signal is transmitted, the process returns to the main process.

  Here, more specifically, for example, when an empty rice cooking state is detected by the microcomputer MCU 1 of the rice cooker operation board 126 provided in the IH rice cooker 1a, the rice cooking operation stop signal is transmitted from the microcomputer MCU 1 to the communication means 300. Is transmitted to the main substrate 225 via

  Then, based on the cooking operation stop signal, the operation of the IH cooker 200 is stopped by the control of the microcomputer MCU 4 included in the main substrate 225.

  Thereby, empty rice cooking in the IH rice cooker 1a can be reliably prevented.

[About IH Rice Cooker according to Second Configuration Example]
In addition, in order to cook rice in which the taste of rice is drawn using an IH rice cooker, it is important to determine the optimum amount of water according to the characteristics of rice.

  However, in the conventional IH rice cooker, the amount of water is determined based only on the measured weight of rice.

  That is, for example, as shown in the chart of FIG. 26, the amount of water of 100 cc in the case of 0.5 go (80 g), the amount of water of 200 cc in the case of 1 go (160 g), and 400 cc in the case of 2 go (320 g) In the case of 3 pieces (480 g), the amount of water was 600 cc.

  Thus, the amount of water determined based only on the weight of rice may be different from the rice cooking menu (for example, cooked rice, rice porridge etc.) set by the user or the optimum amount of water corresponding to the rice brand or the like.

  Therefore, with the amount of water determined by the conventional method, it is difficult to sufficiently bring out the original taste of rice to be cooked.

  Therefore, referring to FIGS. 27 to 38, the IH rice cooker 1b according to the second configuration example capable of calculating the optimum amount of water considering not only the information on the measured rice weight but also the information on the rice cooking menu and the rice brand. explain.

  In addition, the hardware constitutions of IH rice cooker 1b are the same as that of IH rice cooker 1 which concerns on the above-mentioned this Embodiment.

  In the IH rice cooker 1b according to the second configuration example, the optimum water amount Q is calculated by the following equation.

Q = q × w1 × w2 × w3
However, q: general amount of water relative to the weight of rice to be cooked (equivalent to the amount of water according to the conventional method), w1: weight coefficient for adjusting the amount of water relative to the amount of rice when the rice cooking menu is "non-washed rice", "white rice" w2: Weight coefficient to adjust the amount of water to the amount of rice when the rice cooking menu is "new rice", w3: weight coefficient to adjust the amount of water to the amount of rice when the rice cooking menu is "early cooking" and "energy saving" It is.

  FIG. 27 shows an example of a table TB1 in which the weighting factor w1 is described. In the table TB1, in the case of the brand A, 3 combinations (w1 = a times), 2 combinations (w1 = b times), 1 combination (w1 = c times), 0.5 combinations (w1 = d times) .

  In the case of the brand B, three combinations (w1 = e times), two combinations (w1 = a times), one combination (w1 = f times) and 0.5 combinations (w1 = g times) are used.

  In the case of the brand C, three combinations (w1 = e times), two combinations (w1 = e times), one combination (w1 = f times) and 0.5 combinations (w1 = g times) are used.

  Here, a to g are predetermined integers or decimals.

  FIG. 28 shows an example of a table TB3 in which the weighting factor w3 is described. In table TB3, in the case of "early cooking" (cooked rice menu "4" or "8"), 3 sets (w3 = a times), 2 sets (w3 = b times), 1 sets (w3 = c times), It is set as 0.5 combination (w3 = d times).

  In the case of "energy saving" (cooking menu "3" or "7"), 3 sets (w3 = e times), 2 sets (w3 = f times), 1 sets (w3 = b times) 0.5 It is assumed that (w3 = f times).

  Here, a to f are predetermined integers or decimals.

  Further, although illustration of the table TB2 for the weighting factor w2 is omitted, it is desirable that the weighting factor w2 be approximately the same as the weighting factor w1.

(About measuring rice cooking operation)
Next, with reference to flowcharts of FIG. 29 to FIG. 38, a processing procedure such as a weighing rice cooking process performed by the IH rice cooker 1b according to the second configuration example will be described.

  First, when the rice cooker unit 100 of the IH rice cooker 1b is not on the IH cooker 200, the rice cooker operation unit 101 only displays the time, and the weighing display unit 102 remains unlit (S1 → S2 → S3 → S2). When the rice cooker unit 100 is placed on the IH cooker 200, the menu display and the like of the rice cooker operation unit 101 is activated, but the weighing display unit 102 remains unlit (S2 → S4). At this time, the previous information on the menu, brand, and hardness is maintained (S5).

  Then, when the user presses the menu button B1, the menu selection is switched (S6 → S7 → S6). For example, (1) No-wash rice → (2) No-wash rice, new rice → (3) no-wash rice, energy saving → (4) no-wash rice, early cooking → (5) white rice → (6) white rice, new rice → (7) white rice, Energy saving → (8) white rice, early cooking → (9) cooking → (10) rice porch → (11) brown rice → (12) stew / steaming → (1) no-wash rice → ... in order.

  Next, when the user presses the rice brand button B3, if the selection menu is not white rice or non-washed rice, the brand selection remains unlit (S8 → S9 → S10 → S8). On the other hand, when the selection menu is white rice or non-washed rice, the brand selection is switched (S8 → S9 → S11 → S8). For example, (0) Other → (1) Koshihikari → (2) Akitakomachi → (3) Tsuyahime → (4) Yumepirika → (5) Hitomebore → (6) Hinohikari → (0) Other → Switch in order It is supposed to be.

  Then, when the user presses the hardness button, if the selection menu is not white rice or non-washed rice, the hardness selection remains unlit (S12 → S13 → S14 → S12). On the other hand, when the selection menu is white rice or non-washed rice, hardness selection is switched (S12 → S13 → S15 → S12). For example, it is configured to switch in the order of (1) standard → (2) or → → (3) soft → (1) standard →.

  Here, with reference to steps S501 to S515 and the like, processing procedures such as calculation processing of the optimum water amount will be described.

  In step S501, the number (Mn) of the rice cooking menu currently set is substituted into the variable M, and the process proceeds to step S6.

  In step S6, it is determined whether the "menu" button is pressed or not, and in the case of "No", the M value substituted in step S501 is set in menu number m in step S503, and then the process proceeds to step S507. Do.

  When it is determined “Yes” in step S6, the process proceeds to step S504, and it is determined whether M = 12.

  If the determination result is "Yes", the M value is reset to 0 in step S505, and the process proceeds to step S7.

  If the determination result is "No", the process proceeds to step S7, the M value is incremented by "1", the process proceeds to step S7, and the menu display is sequentially switched as shown in the lower right of FIG. .

  On the other hand, in step S507, the currently-set US brand number (Bn) is substituted into the variable B, and the process proceeds to step S8.

  In step S8, it is determined whether the "rice brand" button is pressed. If "Yes", the process proceeds to step S9, and it is determined whether the selection menu is "white rice" or "non-washed rice". It is judged.

  If the determination result is "No", the process proceeds to step S10, the brand selection remains unlit, and the process returns to step S8.

  If the determination result is "Yes", the process proceeds to step S511, in which it is determined whether B = 6. If the determination result is "Yes", the process proceeds to step S513, the B value is reset to 0, and the process proceeds to step S11. If the determination result is "No", the process proceeds to step S512, the B value is incremented by "1", and the process proceeds to step S11.

  In step S11, the brand display is sequentially switched as shown in the table on the lower right of FIG.

  On the other hand, when “No” is determined in step S8, the process proceeds to step S514, the B value of step S507 is set in b, and the process proceeds to step S515.

  In step S515, a subroutine for calculating the weighting factors w1, w2, w3 is executed.

  Here, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 31, the processing procedure of the subroutine for calculating the weighting factors w1, w2, w3 will be described.

  First, in step S600, it is determined whether the rice cooking menu number "m" is "1" or "5", that is, "non-washed rice" or "white rice".

  If the determination result is "Yes", the process proceeds to step S601, and the weighting coefficient corresponding to the b value (the value corresponding to the set US brand) is substituted into w1 by the table TB1 illustrated in FIG. , And proceeds to step S602.

  In step S602, “1” is substituted for the weighting factors w2 and w3, and the process returns to the main process of FIG.

  When it is determined as "No" in step S600, the process proceeds to step S603. In step S603, it is determined whether the rice cooking menu number "m" is "2" or "6", that is, "no-wash rice new rice" or "white rice new rice".

  If the determination result is "Yes", the process proceeds to step S604, and a weighting factor corresponding to the b value (the value corresponding to the set US brand) is substituted into w2 by table TB2 (not shown). , And proceeds to step S605.

  In step S605, “1” is substituted for the weighting factors w1 and w3, and the process returns to the main process of FIG.

  If it is determined “No” in step S603, the process proceeds to step S606.

  In step S606, the weighting factor corresponding to the m value is substituted into w3 using the table TB3 illustrated in FIG. 28, and the process proceeds to step S607.

  In step S602, “1” is substituted for the weighting factors w1 and w2, and the process returns to the main process of FIG.

  By such a process, it becomes possible to calculate the optimum water amount Q for various kinds of rice cooking according to the formula Q = q × w1 × w2 × w3.

  Thereby, the optimal water quantity according to the characteristic etc. of rice can be determined, and the rice cooking which fully pulled out the taste of rice can be performed.

  Next, the processing procedure according to the flowchart of FIG. 32 and the like will be described.

  When the lid portion 100A is open, the weight is equal to or more than the kettle appropriate weight, and the heat retention is "off", the weighing display is started (S16 → S18 → S20 → S24). The pot appropriate weight is a weight obtained by subtracting a predetermined value from the pot weight.

  On the other hand, if the lid portion 100A is not open, or the weight is not more than the kettle appropriate weight, or if the heat retention is not "off", the condition is left as it is (S16 → S17, S18 → S19, S20 → S21). However, if the heat retention / cancel button B2 is pressed, the weighing display is started (S21 → S22 → S24). When the lid 100A is closed (S23: YES), the process returns to step S16.

  Next, when the weighing display is left for 10 minutes or more, the weighing display is turned off unless the weighing button B11 is pressed (S25 → S26 → S27 → S26). Even if it has not been left for 10 minutes or more, when the heat retention / cancel button B2 is pressed, the weighing display is turned off from the viewpoint of energy saving unless the weighing button B11 is pressed (S25 → S28 → S29 → S30 → S30 → S29) .

  On the other hand, when the weight of rice is equal to or less than the allowable weight and upper limit of the rice cooking menu in the case where the heat retention / cancel button B2 is not pressed or not left for 10 minutes or more, It displays as "push" etc. (S25-> S28-> S31-> S33). If the rice weight is not below the allowable rice weight / upper limit of the rice cooking menu, an error is displayed (S25 → S28 → S31 → S32). In addition, although leaving time was made into 10 minutes in this flow, it is not limited to this.

  Next, if the rice weight is within the allowable rice weight of the rice cooking menu, the display of “insert rice and press the measurement button” is maintained, and the measurement button B11 is blinked (S34 → S35). Thus, when the user presses the measurement button B11, the weight of rice is stored when the weight of rice is within the allowable weight range, and the amount of water optimum for the amount of rice is displayed. Specifically, the water measurement mode “insert (decrease) cc cc water” or the like is displayed (S36 → S37 → S38). In addition, allowable rice weight "(circle) combination-(circle) combination" is decided for every rice cooking menu.

  Here, when the menu is "no-wash rice", it is displayed such as "Pour ○ cc water" (S39 → S40). On the other hand, when the menu is other than "non-washed rice", it is displayed as "add water after ○ cc washing" (S39 → S41).

  Then, when the cancel button is not pressed, if the water (+ rice) weight is not within the optimum water amount range, a sound is emitted “Peep, peep” and the rice cook button B 4 and the reservation button are turned off (S 42 → S 43 → S44 → S43). On the other hand, when the water (+ rice) weight is within the optimum water amount range, a beep is sounded, the rice cooking button B4 and the reservation button are blinked, and if the lid 100A is closed, the weighing mode is released. Then, "Time mode: 00:00" and the like are displayed (S42-> S43-> S45-> S46-> S47). In addition, the optimal water volume range "optimum water volume ± ○%" is determined based on the combination of the rice cooking menu, the brand, and the hardness setting. Further, when the optimum water amount range is reached, it is desirable to urge the display 100A to be closed by means of display, sound or the like.

  Next, when the user presses the reservation button, the mode is shifted to the reservation mode and displayed as "00:00" etc., and "reservation 1" is turned on to display the previous registration time (S48-> S49-> S50). Here, when the user presses the hour / minute button without pressing the cancel button or the reservation button, the registration time of reservation 1 is updated (S51 → S52 → S58 → S59). On the other hand, when the user presses the reservation button without pressing the cancel button, "Reserved 2" is turned on to display the previous registration time, and when the user presses the hour / minute button without pressing the reservation button, The registration time of reservation 2 is updated (S51 → S52 → S53 → S54 → S56 → S57). When the user presses the reservation button in step S54, the reservation mode is canceled and displayed as "time mode: 00:00" (S54 → S55).

  Finally, when the user presses the rice cooking button B4, when the lid 100A is closed, rice cooking is started in the selected rice cooking menu / brand course (S60 → S61 → S62). Thereafter, when the rice cooking is completed, the heat retention is started (S63), and the process returns to step S16.

[Example of weight sensor zero point adjustment operation]
FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a weight sensor zero point adjustment operation.

  First, when the lid 100A is not open, the state is kept as it is (S71 → S72). On the other hand, when the user long-presses the weighing button B11 when the lid portion 100A is open, if the weight falls within the kettle weight appropriate range, the zero point adjustment is started, and the mode is shifted to the rice weighing mode (S71 → S73 → S74 → S75 → S76). Pot weight reasonable range "pot weight ± ○%" is determined based on the pot weight.

[Example of weight sensor control operation]
FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing a weight sensor control operation.

  First, the sensor values of four weight sensors (strain gauges) are measured, and the values for a fixed time are averaged based on the following equation (S81 → S82).

Sensor output average (voltage) = average (sensor output ALL (voltage))
Next, the output voltage is converted to a load (weight) based on the following equation (S83). The strain gauge coefficient is determined by in-kind confirmation and experiment.

Measured value [g] = (Sensor output average (voltage)) / (Strain gauge coefficient [voltage / N]) / g (gravity acceleration [m / s ^ 2])
Next, the measured weight is calculated based on the following equation (S84).

Weighing weight [g] = measured value [g]-zero point weight [g]
At this time, in the case of the rice weighing mode, the weight of rice is recorded in units of g (S 85 → S 86). On the other hand, in the case of the water measurement mode, the water weight is output in cc units based on the following equation (S87 → S88).

Output value [cc] = (Required rice amount calculated from recorded rice weight, grade of rice, etc.)-((Weighing weight [g])-(Recorded rice weight [g]))
[IH cooking operation example]
FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the operation of the IH cooker 200.

  First, when the rice cooker unit 100 is placed on the IH cooker 200, the display of the IH operation unit 201 is turned off (S91 → S92 → S93 → S92). In addition, even when the rice cooker unit 100 is not on the IH cooker 200, the display of the IH operation unit 201 is turned off until the user presses the "heat start" or "fry start" button 201a or 201b. (S94 → S95 → S92).

  Next, when the user presses the "heat start" or "fry start" button 201a or 201b, the heating is started with the lowest heating power (S94 → S96). The reason for starting heating with the lowest thermal power is to prevent safety from rising inadvertently. When the user presses the "strong" button 201c, the power is raised accordingly (S97-> S98), and when the "weak" button 201d is pressed, the power is lowered accordingly (S99-S100) . Finally, when the user presses the “off” button 201e, the power is reduced (S101 → S102).

[About the brand and taste of rice]
The following describes the relationship between rice brand and taste.

  The brands "Koshihikari", "Hinohikari" and "Akitakomachi" are relatively sticky in terms of taste, and the hardness of rice belongs to a relatively hard category. Also, the brands "Yumepirika", "Forest's Kuma", "Hitemebore" and "Tsuyahime" are relatively sticky in terms of taste, and the hardness of rice belongs to a relatively soft category. In addition, the brands "Nanaboshi", "Haenuki" and "Mashigura" are relatively easy in terms of taste, and the hardness of rice belongs to a relatively hard category. In addition, the brand "Sasaniki" is relatively easy in terms of taste, and the hardness of rice belongs to a relatively soft category.

  As described above, since the taste and physical properties differ depending on the brand of rice, the main substrate 225 of the IH cooker 200 is used in the cooking process according to the brand of rice selected by the rice brand button B3 of the rice cooker operation unit 101. The amount of heat (electric power) to be applied is calculated, and the IH coil 211 or the like is controlled based on the calculated amount of heat. Thereby, it is possible to properly perform cooking according to brand.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the IH cooker performs a predetermined cooking operation even when the control signal for performing the cooking control is not properly transmitted during the cooking operation of the rice cooker. You can provide a rice cooker that can avoid the situation where you can not do it correctly.

[Other Embodiments]
As mentioned above, although described by the embodiment, it should not be understood that the statement and drawing which make a part of this disclosure are an illustration, and are limited to this. Various alternative embodiments, examples and operation techniques will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

  Thus, the present embodiment includes various embodiments that are not described herein. For example, although the case where a weight sensor was provided in the IH cooker 200 side was illustrated, it is also possible to provide a weight sensor in the rice cooker part 100 side. In addition to strain gauges, pressure sensors and other types of load cells can also be used as weight sensors.

  The rice cooker of the present embodiment can be applied to an upper and lower separation type IH rice cooker and the like.

1 (1a, 1b) ... IH rice cooker (rice cooker)
100 ... rice cooker unit 101 ... rice cooker operation unit 102 ... weighing display unit 111 ... detection magnet 112 ... communication terminal 113 ... power receiving coil 121 ... inner pot (rice cooker)
122 Interface board 123 Weighing display board 124 Lid lock mechanism 126 Rice cooker operation board 127 Inner lid 128 Steam cylinder 129 Lid hinge 131, 231 Thermistor (temperature measurement part)
200 ... IH cooker (electromagnetic cooker)
201 ... IH operation unit (electromagnetic cooker operation unit)
211 ... IH coil (heating coil)
212: Power supply coil 213: Communication terminal 214: Reed switch 221: FAN
223 ... pedestal part (weight detection leg)
224 ... IH operation board 224a ... weight sensor board 223A ... base member 223B ... strain gauge 223C ... weight sensor pedestal 223D ... rubber foot 223E ... weight sensor cover 225 ... main board 226 ... magnet plug 300 ... communication means 400a ... first control Part (first control means)
400b second control unit (second control means)
500b third control unit (third control means)
500a ... fourth control unit (fourth control means)
D1, D11: Display section B1: Menu button B2: Heat retention / cancellation button B3: American brand button B4: Rice cooking button B11: Weighing button MCU1 to MCU4: Microcomputer

Claims (9)

An electromagnetic cooker that performs electromagnetic induction heating,
The rice cooker section placed on the electromagnetic cooker at the time of rice cooking,
Equipped with
The electromagnetic cooker is
The rice cooking operation is performed by the control signal from the rice cooker unit,
The rice cooker configured to stop the cooking operation when the control signal can not be received for a predetermined time. The electromagnetic cooker is
A communication terminal which constitutes a part of communication means for receiving the control signal from the rice cooker section;
First control means or second control means for controlling the electromagnetic cooker in accordance with the control signal;
Equipped with
The first control means or the second control means
The rice cooker according to claim 1, configured to stop the cooking operation of the electromagnetic cooker when the control signal can not be received for the predetermined time. The electromagnetic cooker is
The rice cooker according to claim 2, configured to stop the cooking operation of the electromagnetic cooker when the control signal for adjusting the heating power for cooking is not received to adjust the heating power at the time of the cooking operation. The first control means or the second control means
When a cooking operation stop signal for stopping the cooking operation of the electromagnetic cooker is received through the communication means, or when an abnormality occurrence signal indicating that an abnormality occurs in the rice cooker portion is received The rice cooker according to claim 2, wherein the rice cooking operation of the electromagnetic cooker is configured to be stopped.   The rice cooker according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the communication by the communication means is wireless communication. The electromagnetic cooker includes a main substrate for controlling an IH coil capable of adjusting a thermal power, and an IH operation substrate for operating the electromagnetic cooker and performing communication with the rice cooker unit.
The rice cooker according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the first control means or the second control means is provided on at least one of the main substrate and the IH operation substrate. The rice cooker unit includes an interface substrate for communicating with the electromagnetic cooker, and a rice cooker operation substrate for operating the rice cooker unit and for operating the electromagnetic cooker via the communication unit.
The third control means or the fourth control means for controlling the cooking operation of the rice cooker unit is provided on at least one of the interface substrate and the rice cooker operation substrate. The rice cooker described in the section.   The rice cooker unit detects a communication failure between the interface board and the rice cooker operation board on the interface board side, and the third control means provided on the interface board via the communication means. The rice cooker according to claim 7, wherein the rice cooking operation stop signal is transmitted, and the main substrate is configured to stop the rice cooking operation of the electromagnetic cooker based on the rice cooking operation stop signal.   When the electromagnetic cooker detects a communication failure between the rice cooker unit and the electromagnetic cooker by the communication means on the IH operation board side, the first control means provided on the IH operation board The rice cooker according to claim 7, wherein the rice cooking operation stop signal is transmitted to the main substrate, and the main substrate is configured to stop the rice cooking operation of the electromagnetic cooker based on the rice cooking operation stop signal.

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