Patent Description:
Cooktops that heat target objects use gas or electricity to heat the target objects. The cooktops can include a knob that rotates around a shaft to adjust an amount of heat applied to a target objector to manipulate the cooktop such as the setting of a cooking mode and the like.

A conventional cooktop includes knobs (or switches) around which light is emitted to improve visibility.

<FIG> and <FIG> are diagrams illustrating a switch assembly in the conventional cooktop.

The switch assembly of the conventional cooktop can include a switch <NUM>, a light guide <NUM>, a switch holder <NUM>, a control panel <NUM>, a support bracket <NUM>, and a regulator <NUM>.

The light guide <NUM> includes a light guide path <NUM>-<NUM> and an LED module <NUM>-<NUM>. The LED module <NUM>-<NUM> is disposed at a first end of the light guide path <NUM>-<NUM>. Since the LED module <NUM>-<NUM> as a light source is disposed at the first end of the light guide path <NUM>-<NUM>, constant brightness of light cannot be ensured. For example, the first end of the light guide path <NUM>-<NUM>, at which the LED module <NUM>-<NUM> is disposed, is relatively bright, while a second end on the opposite side of the first end is relatively dark.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating a portion of a knob assembly of another conventional cooktop.

The knob assembly in the another conventional cooktop includes a first light guide <NUM>, a second light guide <NUM>, and a bezel main body <NUM>. The second light guide <NUM> includes a leg <NUM>-<NUM> extended toward a light source, and a guide ring <NUM>-<NUM> forming a diffused light. In the another conventional cooktop, the light source is disposed in an end portion of the leg <NUM>-<NUM>. Accordingly, a portion of the guide ring <NUM>-<NUM>, which contacts the leg <NUM>-<NUM>, is relatively bright, while a portion far from the portion in contact with the leg <NUM>-<NUM> is relatively dark.

<CIT>) relates to an assembly for illuminating control knobs.

The present disclosure is directed to a cooktop and a knob assembly that can enhance recognizing of operations of the cooktop.

Further, the present disclosure is directed to a cooktop and a knob assembly that can emit light uniformly around a knob.

Moreover, the present disclosure is directed to a cooktop and a knob assembly that can improve aesthetic qualities.

According to one aspect of the subject matter described in this application, a cooktop can include a heating part configured to heat a target object, and a manipulating part comprising (i) a control panel and (ii) a knob assembly that is coupled to the control panel and that is configured to control the heating part. The knob assembly can include a knob body that is disposed at a front surface of the control panel and that is configured to rotate with respect to a rotation shaft extended in a front-rear direction, a light diffusing part that is disposed at a rear side of the knob body and that is configured to diffuse light, and a light source part that is disposed at a rear side of the light diffusing part and that includes one or more light sources. The light diffusing part can include a light source corresponding part that is disposed at a position corresponding to one of the one or more light sources. A thickness of the light diffusing part along a first straight line that passes from a center of the light diffusing part through the light source corresponding part can be greater than a thickness of the light diffusing part along a straight line that does not pass through the light source corresponding part.

Implementations according to this aspect can include one or more of the following features. For example, the thickness of the light diffusing part along the first straight line can increase from the center of the light diffusing part toward an outer edge of the light diffusing part.

In some implementations, a thickness of the light diffusing part on a circumference of a first circle can decrease from an intersection point between the first circle and the first straight line toward an outer edge of the light diffusing part. In some implementations, the light diffusing part can include a plate having a thickness that increases from a center of the plate toward an outer edge of the plate along the first straight line, and a ring that surrounds the outer edge of the plate, that protrudes forward from the plate, and that has a diameter greater than a diameter of the knob body.

In some examples, a portion of the knob body can be inserted into a space defined by the plate and the ring. In some implementations, the cooktop can further include a knob ring that is disposed between the light diffusing part and the light source part, that is coupled to a front surface of the control panel, and that defines an exterior of the knob assembly.

In some implementations, the light diffusing part can include one or more first coupling hooks protruding rearward, and the knob ring can include one or more first connecting holes fitted-coupled to the one or more first coupling hooks. In some examples, the knob ring can include a plate having at least one of the one or more first connecting holes, and a ring that surrounds an outer edge of the plate, that protrudes forward from the plate, and that has a diameter greater than a diameter of the light diffusing part.

In some examples, the light diffusing part can be inserted into a space defined by the plate and the ring. In some implementations, the knob ring can include one or more second connecting hooks protruding rearward and to which the light source part is fitted-coupled.

In some implementations, a maximum thickness of the light diffusing part along the first straight line can be <NUM> times thicker than a minimum thickness of the light diffusing part. In some implementations, the light source part can include a plurality of light sources, and a thickness of the light diffusing part along a second straight line that passes from the center of the light diffusing part through an intermediate point between two adjacent light sources of the light diffusing part can be less than a thickness of the light diffusing part along a straight line that does not pass through the intermediate point.

In some examples, the thickness of the light diffusing part along the second straight line can remain constant from the center of the light diffusing part toward an outer edge of the light diffusing part. In some examples, an outermost thickness of the light diffusing part along the first straight line can be <NUM> times greater than a thickness of the light diffusing part along the second straight line.

In some implementations, the plurality of light sources can be spaced at regular intervals.

According to another aspect of the subject matter described in this application, a knob assembly can include a knob body configured to rotate with respect to a rotation shaft extended in a front-rear direction, a light diffusing part that is disposed at a rear side of the knob body and that is configured to diffuse light, and a light source part that is disposed at a rear side of the light diffusing part and that includes one or more light sources. The light diffusing part can include a light source corresponding part that is disposed at a position corresponding to one of the one or more light sources. A thickness of the light diffusing part along a first straight line that passes from a center of the light diffusing part through the light source corresponding part can be greater than a thickness of the light diffusing part along a straight line that does not pass through the light source corresponding part.

Implementations according to this aspect can include one or more following features. For example, the thickness of the light diffusing part along the first straight line can increase from the center of the light diffusing part toward an outer edge of the light diffusing part.

In some implementations, a thickness of the light diffusing part on a circumference of a first circle can decrease from an intersection between the first circle and the first straight line toward an outer edge of the light diffusing part. In some implementations, the light diffusing part can include a plate having a thickness that increases from a center of the plate toward an outer edge of the plate along the first straight line, and a ring that surrounds the outer edge of the plate, that protrudes forward from the plate, and that has a diameter greater than a diameter of the knob body. A portion of the knob body can be inserted into a space defined by the plate and the ring.

In some implementations, the knob assembly can further include a knob ring that is disposed between the light diffusing part and the light source part and that defines an exterior of the knob assembly. The light diffusing part and the knob ring can be fitted-coupled.

A cooktop and a knob assembly of the cooktop can include a light diffusing part capable of efficiently diffusing light, irradiated from a light source part, around a knob, thereby enhancing recognizing operations of the cooktop and ensuring improvement in user convenience.

Light irradiated to the light diffusing part can be diffused further toward a relatively thick portion of the light diffusing part. In the knob assembly and the cooktop provided with the same, since a thickness of the light diffusing part can increase toward an outer edge thereof, the light irradiated to the light diffusing part can be efficiently diffused to the outer edge of the light diffusing part. Thus, a brighter light can be emitted in an outer edge area of the light diffusing part, and uniform brightness can be ensured entirely in the outer edge area of the light diffusing part, thereby improving aesthetic qualities and enabling a user to recognize operations of the cooktop more conveniently.

Additionally, damage caused by a twist of the light source part can be limited, and the light source part can be readily assembled and replaced.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating a view of an exemplary cooktop provided with a knob assembly. The cooktop can include a manipulating part <NUM> and a heating part, and the heating part can include a cooktop part <NUM>, an oven part <NUM>, and a drawer <NUM>.

Components for manipulating operations of the cooktop can be disposed at the manipulating part <NUM>. For example, a knob assembly <NUM> can be disposed at the manipulating part <NUM>, and the knob assembly <NUM> can rotate around a rotation shaft that extends in a front-rear direction to adjust a thermal power generated by each part (e.g., the cooktop part <NUM>, the oven part <NUM> and the drawer <NUM>) of the cooktop or to set an operation mode of each part of the cooktop. The knob assembly <NUM> can be fixed to a control panel <NUM> of the manipulating part <NUM>.

The cooktop part <NUM> can be disposed at an upper portion of the cooktop. The cooktop part <NUM> can include at least one of cooktop burners <NUM>. The cooktop burner <NUM> can heat a vessel containing a target object or directly heat a target object to cook the target object using a flame that is produced by burning gases.

The oven part <NUM> can be disposed in a central portion of the cooktop. The oven part <NUM> can include a main body forming a cooking space in which a food item is cooked, and a burner assembly for cooking a target object accommodated in the cooking space. Additionally, the oven part <NUM> can include a door for opening and closing the cooking space.

The drawer <NUM> can slide into the cooktop or can be withdrawn from the cooktop and can keep a vessel containing a target object and the like at a predetermined temperature.

In <FIG>, the cooktop includes the oven part, the cooktop part, and the drawer as a heating part for heating a target object, for example. However, the cooktop, in some implementations, may exclude some of the oven part, the cooktop part, and the drawer.

<FIG> shows a gas oven including the oven part, the cooktop part, and the drawer, which are capable of cooking a target object, as an example of the cooktop. But the subject matter of the present disclosure may be applied to various types of cooktops such as a cooktop that generates heat using electricity rather than gas or an oven and the like. For example, the cooktop part of the cooktop can include an induction heater capable of inductively heat a vessel and/or an electric heater capable of generating heat using electricity.

Hereinafter, the front denotes a front-surface direction of the cooktop, and the rear denotes a rear-surface direction of the coking appliance.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of the knob assembly, <FIG> is a diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of the knob assembly in <FIG>, and <FIG> is a diagram illustrating an exploded perspective view of the knob assembly in <FIG>.

The knob assembly <NUM> can include a knob body <NUM>, a light diffusing part <NUM>, a knob ring <NUM>, a light source part <NUM>, and an adjusting part <NUM>, and the adjusting part <NUM> can include an ignition switch <NUM> and a valve <NUM>.

The knob body <NUM> can define an exterior of a front surface of the knob assembly <NUM>. The knob body <NUM> can be formed into a single component based on integration, or can be comprised of a plurality of components based on coupling. The knob body <NUM> can rotate around a rotation shaft ax that extends in the front-rear direction. For example, the knob body <NUM> can be rotatably coupled to the light diffusing part <NUM>, the knob ring <NUM>, the light source part <NUM>, and the adjusting part <NUM>.

The light diffusing part <NUM> can be disposed between the knob body <NUM> and the light source part <NUM>. The light diffusing part <NUM> can be entirely short and formed into a cylinder having a front surface that is completely open. The light diffusing part <NUM> can emit light around the knob body <NUM>. Additionally, the light diffusing part <NUM> can be fixed to an inside of the knob ring <NUM> and protect the light source part <NUM>.

The light diffusing part <NUM> may be made of a material capable of diffusing light, irradiated from the light source part <NUM>, therein. For example, the light diffusing part <NUM> may be made of an opaque plastic material. Accordingly, uniformity in brightness of light emitted around the knob body <NUM> can be improved.

Further, a position of the light diffusing part <NUM>, which corresponds to a position of the light source of the light source part <NUM>, can be thicker than another position of the light diffusing part <NUM>. Thus, the uniformity in the brightness of the light emitted around the knob body <NUM> can be improved, and the brightness of the light can increase.

The knob ring <NUM> can be disposed at a rear side of the light diffusing part <NUM>. For example, the knob ring <NUM> can be disposed between the light diffusing part <NUM> and the light source part <NUM>. The knob ring <NUM> can be short entirely and formed into a cylinder having a front surface that is completely open. Additionally, the knob ring <NUM> can fix the light source part <NUM>. Further, the knob ring <NUM> can be disposed at a front surface of the control panel <NUM> and form the exterior of the knob assembly <NUM>.

The knob ring <NUM> may be made of an opaque material. A surface of the knob ring <NUM> can be plated and/or coated and fix the light source part <NUM>.

The light diffusing part <NUM> and the knob ring <NUM> can be fixed to the control panel <NUM> in a state of being coupled to each other.

The light source part <NUM> can be disposed at the rear side of the light diffusing part <NUM>. The light source part <NUM> can include at least one of light sources <NUM> configured to irradiate light to a rear surface of the light diffusing part <NUM>. The light source <NUM> may be a light-emitting diode. When a plurality of light sources <NUM> is provided, the plurality of light sources <NUM> can be spaced at regular intervals.

The light source part <NUM> can be fixed to the knob ring <NUM> disposed at the rear of the light diffusing part <NUM>. For example, the light diffusing part120 can be fixed to an inside of the front surface of the knob ring <NUM>, and the light source part <NUM> can be fixed to a rear surface of the knob ring <NUM>.

The adjusting part <NUM> can adjust thermal power output from the cooktop, or adjust operation of the cooktop such as a mode of the cooktop and the like, based on the rotation of the knob body <NUM>. When the cooktop uses gas as a heat source, the adjusting part <NUM> can include an ignition switch <NUM> or a valve <NUM>.

The ignition switch <NUM> can receive torque of the knob body <NUM>. An on/off state of the ignition switch <NUM> can change based on a rotation angle of the knob body <NUM>. The ignition switch <NUM> can be turned on and produce a spark on a fire mouth of a burner (<NUM> in <FIG>)/a spark on a burner (<NUM> in <FIG>) when the knob body1 <NUM> makes a rotation at a predetermined angle.

The valve <NUM> can receive torque from the knob body <NUM>. An opening degree of the valve <NUM> can be determined based on a rotation degree of the knob body <NUM>. In some implementations, the valve <NUM> can receive torque from the knob body <NUM> only when the knob body <NUM> rotates in a state of being pressed.

The ignition switch <NUM> and the valve <NUM> can receive torque of the knob body <NUM> through a valve shaft.

The control panel <NUM> can be disposed at a rear side of the knob ring <NUM>. As described above, the light diffusing part <NUM> and the knob ring <NUM> can be fixed to the control panel <NUM> in the state of being coupled to each other. The control panel <NUM> can be a portion (e.g., a front surface of the cooktop part <NUM> in <FIG>) of the cooktop or a portion of the knob assembly <NUM>. The control panel <NUM> can have an opening <NUM>-<NUM> at which the light source part <NUM> is disposed. Additionally, the control panel <NUM> can have at least one of panel holes <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> through which the knob ring <NUM> is coupled to the control panel <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating an exploded perspective view of an exemplary knob body <NUM> of the knob assembly <NUM>. The knob body <NUM> can include a knob <NUM>, an insert <NUM>, screw bolts <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, and a spring <NUM>.

The knob <NUM> can form the exterior of the front surface of the knob assembly <NUM>. The knob <NUM> can include a cylindrical body and a handle protruding forward from the body.

The insert <NUM> can be inserted into a rear surface of the knob <NUM>. The insert <NUM> can improve rigidity of the knob <NUM> and limit deformation of the knob <NUM>. The insert <NUM> may have a shape of doughnut.

The screw bolts <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> can fix the insert <NUM> and the knob <NUM>.

The spring <NUM> can be disposed inside the knob body <NUM>, and can connect between the knob <NUM> and the valve shaft.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating a view of a light diffusing part <NUM> of the knob assembly <NUM> viewed from a front, <FIG> is a diagram illustrating a view of the light diffusing part <NUM> of the knob assembly <NUM> viewed from a rear, <FIG> is a diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of a light diffusing part <NUM> cut along line B-B' in <FIG>, and <FIG> is a diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of a light diffusing part <NUM> cut along line C-C' in <FIG>.

The light diffusing part <NUM> can include a first plate <NUM> formed into a flat plate, and a first ring <NUM> surrounding an outer edge of the first plate <NUM> and protruding forward from the first plate <NUM>. For example, the light diffusing part <NUM> can have a cylindrical shape entirely as a result of coupling between the first plate <NUM> and the first ring <NUM>. The light diffusing part <NUM> can have a diameter greater than a diameter of the knob body (<NUM> in <FIG>). More particularly, the light diffusing part <NUM> can have an inner diameter greater than an outer diameter of the knob body <NUM>. Wherein, the inner diameter of the light diffusing part <NUM> may mean an inner diameter of the first ring <NUM> of the light diffusing part <NUM>. At least a portion of the knob body (<NUM> in <FIG> and <FIG>) can be inserted into a space formed by the first plate <NUM> and the first ring <NUM>. For example, the first ring <NUM> can be disposed in a way that an edge of a front surface of the first ring <NUM> is seen, when the knob assembly <NUM> is viewed from the front. Thus, a user may directly see light diffused through the light diffusing part <NUM>, resulting in improvement in visibility.

In <FIG>, reference numerals <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> indicate light source corresponding parts of the light diffusing part <NUM>, corresponding to the positions of the light sources <NUM>, when the light source part (<NUM> in <FIG> and <FIG>) is fixed to the knob ring (<NUM> in <FIG> and <FIG>). For example, the light source corresponding parts <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> of the light diffusing part <NUM> can be points corresponding to forward directions of the light sources <NUM>.

An average thickness of the first plate <NUM> on straight lines (L1, L2 and L3 in <FIG>) passing from a center O of the first plate <NUM> through the light source corresponding parts <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> may be greater than a thickness of another portion of the first plate <NUM>. Additionally, on the straight lines (L1, L2, and L3 in <FIG>), the thickness of the first plate <NUM> can increase from the center O toward an outer edge of the first plate <NUM>. The center O of the first plate <NUM> can be aligned with the rotation shaft (ax in <FIG>).

In the case of a first plate <NUM> made of a material capable of diffusing light, when light is irradiated to any one point of the first plate <NUM>, the light tends to be diffused to a direction in which a thickness of the first plate <NUM> increases rather than a direction in which the thickness of the first plate <NUM> decreases. In some implementations, the first plate <NUM> can have a thickness that increases from the center O of the first plate <NUM> toward the outer edge thereof. Specifically, the thickness of the first plate <NUM> can increase from the center O of the first plate <NUM> toward the outer edge thereof on the straight lines L1, L2, L3, and light can be irradiated to one point of the straight lines L1, L2, L3. Accordingly, the light irradiated to the first plate <NUM> can be smoothly diffused in a direction of the outer edge of the first plate <NUM>, and the light irradiated to the first plate <NUM> can be efficiently diffused toward an outer edge area of the first plate <NUM>. The light diffused to the outer edge area of the first plate <NUM> can be diffused to an edge of the front surface of the first ring <NUM> and as a result, can become brighter on the front surface of the first ring <NUM>. Further, the light diffused through the first plate <NUM> and the first ring <NUM> can be seen on the front surface of the knob assembly <NUM>. Thus, uniformity in brightness of the light can be ensured on the front surface of the first ring <NUM>.

On straight lines (L4, L5, and L6 in <FIG>) passing from the center O of the first plate <NUM> through intermediate points between the light sources <NUM>, the first plate <NUM> can have a uniform thickness.

The first plate <NUM> can have a first plate hole <NUM>, thereon. In some implementations, the valve shaft can extend in the front-rear direction through the first plate hole <NUM>, and torque of the knob body (<NUM> in <FIG>) can be delivered to the adjusting part (<NUM> in <FIG>) through the valve shaft.

Referring to <FIG>, a plurality of coupling hooks <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> extended rearward from the first plate <NUM> can be disposed at a rear surface of the first plate <NUM>. The plurality of first coupling hooks <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> can be fitted-coupled to the first coupling holes (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> in <FIG>) formed at the knob ring (<NUM> in <FIG>). Accordingly, the light diffusing part <NUM> and the knob ring <NUM> can be readily coupled to each other without an additional component.

In <FIG> and <FIG>, LP indicates a position at which the light source <NUM> is disposed, and can be a position corresponding to the light source corresponding part <NUM>-<NUM> in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the thickness of the light diffusing part <NUM>, on the straight line (i.e., L1, L2 and L3 in <FIG>) that passes from the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM> (specifically, the center O of the first plate <NUM>) through the light source corresponding part <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>, can be greater than the thickness of the light diffusing part <NUM> on the straight line that does not pass through the light source corresponding part <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>. The increase in the thickness of the light source corresponding part <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> of the light diffusing part <NUM> may result in the enhanced diffusion of light.

In some implementations, the thickness of the light diffusing part <NUM> on the straight line (i.e., L4, L5 and L6 in <FIG>) that connects a position (exactly, an intermediate point between adjacent light sources among a plurality of light sources), at which the light source <NUM> is not disposed, with the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM> (specifically, the center of the first plate <NUM>) can be less than the thickness of the light diffusing part <NUM> on the straight line that does not pass through the intermediate point. Thus, light can be diffused in a desired direction.

In some implementations, on the straight line (L1, L2, and L3 in <FIG>) connecting the light source corresponding part (a point of the light diffusing part <NUM>, corresponding to LP; <NUM>-<NUM> in <FIG>) with the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM> (specifically, the center of the first plate <NUM>), the thickness of the light diffusing part <NUM> (specifically, the first plate <NUM>) can increase from the center O of the first plate <NUM> toward the outer edge thereof. With the structure, light irradiated from the light source <NUM> can be diffused to the outer edge of the light diffusing part <NUM> (specifically, the first plate <NUM>), and as a result, can be uniformly emitted through the end of the light diffusing part <NUM> (specifically, the first ring <NUM>) outward.

In some implementations, on straight lines except for the straight lines (L4, L5, and L6 in <FIG>) connecting the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM> with the intermediate point between adjacent light sources, among the straight lines extending from the center of the light diffusing part <NUM> to the outer edge of the light diffusing part <NUM>, the thickness of the light diffusing part can increase from the center O toward the outer edge. In some implementations, an average thickness of the light diffusing part <NUM>, on the straight line (i.e., L1, L2, and L3 in <FIG>) that passes from the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM> through the light source corresponding part <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>, can be greater than an average thickness of the light diffusing part <NUM> on the straight line that does not pass through the light source corresponding part <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>.

In some implementations, the thickness of the light diffusing part <NUM> (specifically, the first plate121) can remain constant on the straight lines (L4, L5, and L6 in <FIG>) connecting the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM> with the intermediate point between light sources. In some implementations, the thickness of the light diffusing part <NUM> on the straight line (L4, L5, and L6 in <FIG>) can be smallest among the thicknesses of the light diffusing part <NUM>.

Under the assumption that the thickness of the light diffusing part <NUM> (specifically, the first plate <NUM>) is t, at a position (exactly, intermediate positions among a plurality of light sources) of the light diffusing part <NUM>, where the light source <NUM> is not disposed, a maximum thickness of the light diffusing part <NUM> (specifically, the first plate <NUM>) can be about <NUM>. 4t to <NUM>. 6t, preferably, <NUM>. 5t, on the straight line connecting the light source corresponding part (a point of the light diffusing part <NUM>, corresponding to LP; <NUM>-<NUM> in <FIG>) with the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM> (specifically, the center of the first plate <NUM>).

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, on a circumference of a virtual circle (e.g., L7 in <FIG>) having any radius from the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM> (specifically, the center O of the first plate <NUM>), the thickness of the light diffusing part can decrease as farther from an intersection point X1, X2, and X3 between the straight lines (L1, L2 and L3 in <FIG>) connecting the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM> with the light source corresponding part <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM> and the virtual circle (e.g., L7 in <FIG>). Additionally, on the circumference of the virtual circle (e.g., L7 in <FIG>) having any radius from the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM> (specifically, the center O of the first plate <NUM>), the thickness of the light diffusing part can increase as farther from an intersection point X4, X5, and X6 between the straight lines (L4, L5, and L6 in <FIG>) connecting the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM> with the intermediate points among adjacent light sources and the virtual circle (e.g., L7 in <FIG>).

For example, on the circumference of the virtual circle (e.g., L7 in <FIG>) having any radius from the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM>, the thickness of the light diffusing part <NUM> can decrease from the intersection point X1, X2, and X3 between the straight lines (L1, L2 and L3 in <FIG>) connecting the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM> with the light source corresponding part <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> and the virtual circle (e.g., L7 in <FIG>) toward the intersection point X4, X5, and X6 between the straight lines (L4, L5, and L6 in <FIG>) connecting the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM> with the intermediate points among adjacent light sources and the virtual circle (e.g., L7 in <FIG>).

For example, in the light diffusing part <NUM> of the knob assembly <NUM>, the thickness of the portion in which the light source is disposed, and the thickness on the straight lines (L1, L2 and L3 in <FIG>) passing through the center of the light diffusing part <NUM> can be greater than the thickness of the portion in which the light source is not disposed and the thickness on the straight lines (L4, L5, and L6 in <FIG>) passing through the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM>. The portion having the greater thickness may have a sector shape, when viewed from the front.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, on a straight line (e.g., L8 in <FIG>) across the straight line (L1, L2 and L3 in <FIG>) passing through the center O of the light diffusing part <NUM> and the light source corresponding part <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>, the thickness of the light diffusing part <NUM> can decrease as farther from the straight line (L1, L2 and L3 in <FIG>). In some implementations, the straight line (L8 in <FIG>) can be a straight line passing through the light source corresponding part (<NUM>-<NUM> in <FIG>). Accordingly, light irradiated from the light source <NUM> can be uniformly diffused to the front surface of the first ring <NUM> of the light diffusing part <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating a view of a knob ring <NUM> of the knob assembly <NUM> viewed from the front, <FIG> is a diagram illustrating a view of the knob ring <NUM> of the knob assembly <NUM> viewed from the rear, and <FIG> is a diagram illustrating a view of a knob ring <NUM> coupled with a light source part <NUM> in the knob assembly <NUM> viewed from the rear.

Referring to <FIG>, like the light diffusing part <NUM>, the knob ring <NUM> can be short entirely and formed into a cylinder. For example, the knob ring <NUM> can include a second plate <NUM>, and a second ring <NUM> surrounding an outer edge of the second plate <NUM> and protruding forward from the second plate <NUM>. The second ring <NUM> can form the exterior of the knob assembly. The knob ring <NUM> can have a diameter greater than the diameter of the light diffusing part <NUM>. More particularly, the knob ring <NUM> can have an inner diameter greater than an outer diameter of the light diffusing part <NUM>. Wherein, the inner diameter of the knob ring may mean an inner diameter of the second ring <NUM> of the knob ring <NUM>, and the outer diameter of the light diffusing part <NUM> may mean an outer diameter of the first ring <NUM> of the light diffusing part <NUM>.

The light diffusing part <NUM> can be inserted into and fixed to the knob ring <NUM>, i.e., a space formed by the second plate <NUM> and the second ring <NUM>. For example, first coupling holes <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> can be formed on the second plate <NUM> of the knob ring <NUM>. The first coupling hooks <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> formed at the light diffusing part <NUM> can be fitted-coupled respectively to the first coupling holes <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, a height of the first ring <NUM> can be less than a height of the second ring <NUM>. Accordingly, light emitted through the first ring <NUM> of the light diffusing part <NUM> can be limited from excessively escaping from a direction facing the front.

Additionally, the light source (<NUM> in <FIG>) of the light source part (<NUM> in <FIG>) can be disposed on the second plate <NUM>, and a plurality of light transmitting holes <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> through which light irradiated from the light source (<NUM> in <FIG>) can be formed on the second plate <NUM>.

A through hole <NUM> can be formed in a central portion of the second plate <NUM>. The valve shaft of the valve <NUM> can pass through the through hole <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a plurality of second coupling hooks <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> for fixing the light source part (<NUM> in <FIG>) can be disposed at the rear surface of the knob ring <NUM>. The light source part (<NUM> in <FIG>) can be fixed to the plurality of second coupling hooks <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> in a way that the light source part is fitted-coupled to the plurality of second coupling hooks. For example, the light source part (<NUM> in <FIG>) can be disposed at the rear surface of the knob ring <NUM>, and then a proper pressure may be applied forward, such that the light source part (<NUM> in <FIG>) is fitted-coupled and fixed to the second coupling hooks <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>.

Since the light source part <NUM> is directly coupled to the knob ring <NUM> without being coupled to the control panel <NUM> or the adjusting part <NUM>, a twist of the light source part <NUM> can be limited even when the knob body <NUM> rotates, and the light source part <NUM> can be readily assembled and replaced.

Further, a plurality of coupling holes <NUM> can be formed on the second pate <NUM> of the knob ring <NUM>. The knob ring <NUM> can be coupled to the control panel (<NUM> in <FIG>) through the coupling holes <NUM>. For example, the coupling holes <NUM> can be aligned with the panel holes <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> of the control panel (<NUM> in <FIG>), and a bolt and the like can be fastened to the aligned coupling hole <NUM> and panel hole <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, such that the knob ring <NUM> is fixed to the control panel (<NUM> in <FIG>).

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating an exploded perspective view of another exemplary knob assembly <NUM>-<NUM>. The knob assembly <NUM>-<NUM> can include a knob body <NUM>-<NUM>, a light diffusing part <NUM>-<NUM>, a knob ring <NUM>-<NUM>, a light source part <NUM>-<NUM>, and an adjusting part <NUM>-<NUM>. The adjusting part <NUM>-<NUM> can be a rotary switch. In <FIG>, reference numeral <NUM> indicates the control panel, <NUM>-<NUM> indicates the first plate, <NUM>-<NUM> indicates the first ring, <NUM>-<NUM> indicates the second plate, and <NUM>-<NUM> indicates the second ring.

The knob body <NUM>-<NUM>, the light diffusing part <NUM>-<NUM>, the knob ring <NUM>-<NUM>, and the light source part <NUM>-<NUM> can be respectively the same as the knob body <NUM>, the light diffusing part <NUM>, the knob ring <NUM>, and the light source part <NUM> that are described with reference to <FIG>.

Claim 1:
A knob assembly (<NUM>) includes:
a knob body (<NUM>) that is disposed at a front surface of a control panel (<NUM>) and that is configured to rotate with respect to a rotation shaft extended in a front-rear direction of the knob assembly (<NUM>);
a light diffusing part (<NUM>) that is disposed at a rear side of the knob body(<NUM>) and that is configured to diffuse light; and
a light source part (<NUM>) that is disposed at a rear side of the light diffusing part (<NUM>) and that includes one or more light sources (<NUM>),
wherein the light diffusing part (<NUM>) comprises a light source corresponding part (<NUM>-<NUM>) that is disposed at a position corresponding to one of the one or more light sources (<NUM>), and
characterised in that,
a thickness of the light diffusing part (<NUM>) along a virtual first straight line (L1) that passes from a center (O) of the light diffusing part through the light source corresponding part (<NUM>-<NUM>) is greater than a thickness of the light diffusing part along a virtual straight line (L4) from a center (O) of the light diffusing part that does not pass through the light source corresponding part (<NUM>-<NUM>), the virtual first straight line (L1) and the virtual straight line (L4) being in a plane to which the front rear direction is perpendicular.