Transverse induction heating device

Abstract

The volumes of the cores (1120, 1220) are made different in the heating upstream side region and the heating downstream side region.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a transverse induction heating device. This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-121377 filed on July 29, 2022, the entire contents of which are hereby cited. Background Art

[0002] As a device for heating a conductor plate, there is an induction heating device. The induction heating device has a coil. An alternating magnetic field (AC magnetic field) is generated from the coil of the induction heating device. Eddy currents are induced in the conductor plate by the alternating magnetic field. The conductor plate is heated by Joule heat based on the eddy currents. As such an induction heating device, there is a transverse induction heating device. The transverse induction heating device induces eddy currents in the conductor plate by making the alternating magnetic field cross the conductor plate approximately vertically (preferably vertically).

[0003] As a transverse induction heating device, there are technologies described in Patent Documents 1 to 3.

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses using one U-shaped core, a core in which two U-shaped cores are arranged adjacent to each other, or a core in which three or more U-shaped cores are arranged adjacent to each other as the core of a lateral induction heating device.

[0005] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 also discloses using a core (E-shaped core) obtained by arranging the above-mentioned two U-shaped cores adjacent to each other as a core of a lateral type induction heating device.

[0006] Furthermore, Patent Document 3 discloses using a core having a plurality of legs arranged in a staggered arrangement at regular intervals in the conveyance direction of a conductor plate as a core of a lateral type induction heating device.

[0007] Prior art literature

[0008] Patent Literature

[0009] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-257894

[0010] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-27470

[0011] Patent Document 3: Japanese Utility Model Application Laid-Open No. 2-69959 Summary of the invention

[0012] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0013] However, in the techniques described in Patent Documents 1 to 3, the alternating magnetic field crossing the conductor plate becomes uniform in the region of the entry side (upstream side in the conveying direction of the conductor plate) and the region of the exit side (downstream side in the conveying direction of the conductor plate) of the transverse induction heating device. Therefore, the amount of heating applied to the conductor plate becomes the same in the region of the entry side and the region of the exit side of the transverse induction heating device. As a result, the quality required for the conductor plate may not be satisfied.

[0014] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a transverse induction heating device capable of inductively heating a conductor plate in a manner satisfying the quality required for the conductor plate.

[0015] Means used to solve problems

[0016] The horizontal induction heating device of the present invention comprises an upper inductor and a lower inductor, wherein the upper inductor and the lower inductor are arranged opposite to each other with a conductor plate in between, so that an alternating magnetic field intersects with the plate surface of the conductor plate to inductively heat the conductor plate, and the upper inductor and the lower inductor respectively comprise a coil and a core; the volume of the core of the upper inductor and the volume of the core of the lower inductor are different in a heating upstream area of ​​the core and a heating downstream area of ​​the core respectively; the heating upstream area of ​​the core is an area on the upstream side of the conveying direction of the conductor plate relative to a reference position of the core; the heating downstream area of ​​the core is an area on the downstream side of the conveying direction of the conductor plate relative to a reference position of the core area; the reference position of the core is the central position of the most upstream end position of the coil of the core and the most downstream end position of the coil of the core in the heating length direction; the heating length direction is a direction parallel to the conveying direction of the conductor plate; the most upstream end position of the coil of the core is the position of the end of the coil arranged relative to the core, which is located closest to the upstream side in the heating length direction; the most downstream end position of the coil of the core is the position of the end of the coil arranged relative to the core, which is located closest to the downstream side in the heating length direction; the same main magnetic flux flows through one of the cores of the upper inductor; the same main magnetic flux flows through one of the cores of the lower inductor; the main magnetic flux is the magnetic flux passing through the conductor plate. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a transverse induction heating device.

[0018] Figure 2A This is a plan view showing an example of a horizontal induction heating device.

[0019] Figure 2BIt is a bottom view showing an example of a horizontal type induction heating device.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a rear view showing an example of a horizontal type induction heating device.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a front view showing an example of a horizontal type induction heating device.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a diagram conceptually showing an example of a main magnetic flux flowing through an induction heating device.

[0023] Fig. 6A This is a diagram conceptually showing an example of the amount of heat generated by a conductor plate heated by using the induction heating device according to the present embodiment.

[0024] Figure 6B This is a diagram conceptually showing an example of the amount of heat generated by a conductor plate heated using two conventional induction heating devices. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0026] In addition, the same comparison objects such as length, position, size, and interval mean that, in addition to strictly identical situations, they also include situations that are different within the scope of the main purpose of the invention (for example, different within the range of the tolerance set during design). In addition, in each figure, for the convenience of explanation and expression, only the parts required for the explanation are simplified as needed. In addition, in each figure, the x-y-z coordinates represent the relationship between the orientations in each figure. The symbol with a cross mark (×) in the hollow circle (○) indicates that the direction from the outside of the paper to the inside is the axis with the positive direction. In addition, the symbol with a black dot (●) in the hollow circle (○) indicates that the direction from the inside of the paper to the outside of the paper is the axis with the positive direction. In addition, in the present embodiment, an example is given of a situation where the x-y plane is a horizontal plane and the z-axis direction is the height direction.

[0027] Figure 1 to Figure 4 : is a diagram showing an example of a lateral induction heating device. In this embodiment, the conveying direction of the conductor plate M is the positive direction of the y-axis, the width direction of the conductor plate M is the x-axis direction, and the plate thickness direction of the conductor plate M is the z-axis direction. In this case, the upstream side of the conveying direction of the conductor plate M is the negative direction side of the y-axis, and the downstream side is the positive direction side of the y-axis. Here, the direction parallel to the conveying direction of the conductor plate M (positive direction of the y-axis) (i.e., the y-axis direction) is referred to as the heating long direction. The heating long direction corresponds to the length direction of the conductor plate M.

[0028] Figure 1The cross section (yz cross section) of the induction heating device 1000 in a lateral manner when cut perpendicularly to the width direction (x-axis direction) of the conductor plate M is shown. Figure 2A The induction heating device 1000 of the horizontal type is shown as viewed from above (on the positive side of the z-axis) (plan view). Figure 2B The induction heating device 1000 of the horizontal type is shown as viewed from below (the negative side in the z-axis direction) (bottom view). Figure 3 The induction heating device 1000 of the horizontal type is shown as viewed from the upstream side (the negative side in the y-axis direction) in the conveyance direction of the conductor plate M (a rear view). Figure 4 The figure shows a state (front view) of the induction heating device 1000 of the horizontal type observed from the downstream side (positive direction side of the y-axis) in the conveying direction of the conductor plate M. In the following description, the conveying direction of the conductor plate M is referred to as the conveying direction as needed, the width direction of the conductor plate M is referred to as the width direction as needed, and the plate thickness direction of the conductor plate M is referred to as the plate thickness direction as needed.

[0029] The transverse induction heating device 1000 performs induction heating on the conductor plate M by making the alternating magnetic field intersect the plate surface of the conductor plate M being transported approximately perpendicularly (preferably perpendicularly). In addition, the conductor plate M is a metal plate such as a steel plate. In the following description, the transverse induction heating device is referred to as an induction heating device as needed. An example of the structure of the induction heating device 1000 is described below. In addition, the dimensions (W1 to W5) of the induction heating device 1000 will be described later in the column of (design method).

[0030] (Induction heating device 1000)

[0031] The induction heating device 1000 includes an upper inductor 1100 and a lower inductor 1200. The upper inductor 1100 and the lower inductor 1200 are disposed opposite to each other with a conductor plate M interposed therebetween, and are arranged with a gap in the plate thickness direction (z-axis direction) of the conductor plate M. Thus, the plate thickness direction (z-axis direction) of the conductor plate M corresponds to the direction in which the upper inductor 1100 and the lower inductor 1200 are opposed to each other. Figure 1 to Figure 4 In the induction heating device 1000 shown, the upper inductor 1100 and the lower inductor 1200 are symmetrical with respect to the imaginary plane SL. The imaginary plane SL is a plane passing through the center of the plate thickness direction (z-axis direction) of the conductor plate M and parallel to the width direction (x-axis direction) and the length direction (y-axis direction). The imaginary plane SL is not an actual plane.

[0032] The upper inductor 1100 and the lower inductor 1200 include coils 1110 and 1210 and cores 1120 and 1220 , respectively.

[0033] The number of turns of the coils 1110 and 1210 is N (N is an integer greater than or equal to 1). The number of turns of the coils 1110 and 1210 is not limited. Figure 1 In FIG. 2 , the case where the number of turns N of coils 1110 and 1210 is 5 is illustrated. Coils 1110 and 1210 are configured, for example, in such a way that the center lines of the coils 1110 and 1210 are approximately orthogonal (preferably orthogonal) to the plate surface of the conductor plate M. Coils 1110 and 1210 can be connected electrically in series or in parallel. In this case, the alternating current flowing to the coils 1110 and 1210 is an alternating current supplied from the same alternating current power supply. In addition, coils 1110 and 1210 may not be electrically connected. In this case, the alternating current flowing to the coils 1110 and 1210 is an alternating current supplied from each alternating current power supply. In addition, being connected electrically in series means the same as a series connection commonly used in the field of circuits. In addition, being connected electrically in parallel means the same as a parallel connection commonly used in the field of circuits. In the following description, being connected electrically in series is simply referred to as being connected in series as needed. In addition, connecting electrically in parallel is simply referred to as parallel connection as necessary.

[0034] It is sufficient as long as an alternating current flows from an AC power source to coils 1110 and 1210, so that the magnetic flux generated by coils 1110 and 1210 is directed in approximately the same direction (preferably the same direction) at the same time, and the alternating magnetic field generated by coils 1110 and 1210 crosses the plate surface of conductor plate M approximately perpendicularly (preferably perpendicularly).

[0035] In addition, Figure 1 , Figure 2A and Figure 2B In the example shown, when the coils 1110 and 1210 are connected in series, the total number of turns of the coils 1110 and 1210 in the induction heating device 1000 is 10 (=2×5). On the other hand, when the coils 1110 and 1210 are connected in parallel, the total number of turns of the coils 1110 and 1210 in the induction heating device 1000 is 5.

[0036] exist Figure 1 to Figure 4 In the example, the case where the coils 1110 and 1210 are formed using copper tubes is illustrated. The copper tube has, for example, a hollow rectangular parallelepiped shape. A cooling medium (for example, cooling water) is supplied to the hollow portion of the copper tube. In addition, in order to simplify the description, Figure 2A and Figure 2B, the case where the coils 1110 and 1210 are formed using a spiral copper tube is exemplified. However, the structure of the coils 1110 and 1210 is not limited to such a structure. The induction heating device 1000 may also have a coil of a known structure used in an induction heating device.

[0037] Coils 1110 and 1210 are arranged (wound) on cores 1120 and 1220, respectively. Cores 1120 and 1220 are made of soft magnetic material. In addition, the volumes of cores 1120 and 1220 are different in the heating upstream side region and the heating downstream side region. The heating upstream side region is a region that is closer to the upstream side in the conveying direction (the negative direction side of the y-axis) than the reference position SP. The heating downstream side region is a region that is closer to the downstream side in the conveying direction (the positive direction side of the y-axis) than the reference position SP. In the following description, the upstream side in the conveying direction and the downstream side in the conveying direction are referred to as the upstream side and the downstream side, respectively, as needed.

[0038] The reference position SP is the center position of the coil's most upstream end position MU and the coil's most downstream end position MD in the heating long direction (y-axis direction). The coil's most upstream end position MU is the position of the end located on the most upstream side (negative side of the y-axis) in the heating long direction (y-axis direction) of the end positions of the coils 1110 and 1210. The coil's most downstream end position MD is the position of the end located on the most downstream side (positive side of the y-axis) in the heating long direction (y-axis direction) of the end positions of the coils 1110 and 1210.

[0039] like Figure 1 As illustrated, when the number of coils 1110, 1210 arranged in the heating long direction (y-axis direction) for one core 1120, 1220 is 1, the coil most upstream end position MU is the position of the end located on the most upstream side (negative direction side of the y-axis) in the heating long direction (y-axis direction) among the positions of the ends of the coils 1110, 1210. In addition, the coil most downstream end position MD is the position of the end located on the most downstream side (positive direction side of the y-axis) in the heating long direction (y-axis direction) among the positions of the ends of the coils 1110, 1210.

[0040] On the other hand, when a plurality of coils are arranged in a manner that they are spaced apart in the long heating direction (y-axis direction) for one core 1120, 1220, the coil most upstream end position MU is determined in the coil located on the most upstream side (negative direction side of the y-axis) in the long heating direction among the plurality of coils. That is, the coil most upstream end position MU is the position of the end located on the most upstream side in the long heating direction among the positions of the end of the coil located on the most upstream side in the long heating direction. In addition, the coil most downstream end position MD is determined in the coil located on the most downstream side (positive direction side of the y-axis) in the long heating direction among the plurality of coils. That is, the coil most downstream end position MD is the position of the end located on the most downstream side in the long heating direction among the positions of the end of the coil located on the most downstream side in the long heating direction.

[0041] As described above, the volume of the core 1120 of the upper inductor 1100 is different between the heated upstream region of the core 1120 and the heated downstream region of the core 1120. Similarly, the volume of the core 1220 of the lower inductor 1200 is different between the heated upstream region of the core 1220 and the heated downstream region of the core 1220.

[0042] Here, the same main magnetic flux flows through the core 1120 of the upper inductor 1100. Similarly, the same main magnetic flux flows through the core 1220 of the lower inductor 1200. Figure 5 is a diagram conceptually showing an example of the main magnetic flux flowing into the induction heating device 1000. Figure 5 In FIG. 1 , the structure of coils 1110 and 1210 is simplified. Figure 5 In the figure, shading indicating cross sections is omitted.

[0043] The main magnetic flux is the magnetic flux that contributes to the heating of the conductor plate M. The main magnetic flux is the magnetic flux that passes through the conductor plate M among the magnetic fluxes generated by the cores 1120 and 1220. The main magnetic flux is substantially orthogonal to the plate surface of the conductor plate M (preferably orthogonal). Figure 5 As shown in , the starting points and end points of the magnetic flux lines φ1 to φ32 representing the main magnetic flux are the same. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , the path (magnetic circuit) formed by each magnetic flux line φ1 to φ32 is a closed path. Figure 5 , a case is illustrated in which the path (magnetic circuit) formed by the magnetic flux lines φ1 to φ32 is a closed path passing through the core 1120 of the upper inductor 1100 , the conductor plate M, and the core 1220 of the lower inductor 1200 .

[0044] In the upper inductor 1100, the same main magnetic flux flows through the core 1120. That is, there is a path (magnetic circuit) composed of the same magnetic flux lines φ1 to φ32 inside the core 1120. Therefore, the core 1120 is a single core. Similarly, in the lower inductor 1200, the same main magnetic flux flows through the core 1220. That is, there is a path (magnetic circuit) composed of the same magnetic flux lines φ1 to φ32 inside the core 1220. Therefore, the core 1220 is a single core. Figure 1 to Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , the case where the cores 1120 and 1220 are each integrated is illustrated. It is assumed that the plurality of parts constituting the core are arranged with a gap therebetween. When the same main magnetic flux flows through the plurality of parts, the core constituted by the plurality of parts is one core.

[0045] On the other hand, in the upper inductor 1100, the core is not the same core (that is, it is a different core) as for the cores that do not flow the same main magnetic flux as such a main magnetic flux. Similarly, in the lower inductor 1200, the core is a different core as for the cores that do not flow the same main magnetic flux as such a main magnetic flux. In addition, even if they are cores that flow the same main magnetic flux, the core 1120 of the upper inductor 1100 and the core 1220 of the lower inductor 1200 are different cores.

[0046] As mentioned above, in Figure 1 to Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , the case where the upper inductor 1100 has one core 1120 is illustrated. Figure 1 to Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , the volume of the heated downstream region of the core 1120 is larger than the volume of the heated upstream region of the core 1120. Figure 1 to Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , the case where the lower inductor 1200 has one core 1220 is illustrated. Figure 1 to Figure 4 In the example, the case where the volume of the heated downstream side region of the core 1220 is larger than the volume of the heated upstream side region of the core 1220 is illustrated. The reason why the volume of the heated downstream side region of the cores 1120, 1220 is larger than the volume of the heated upstream side region of the cores 1120, 1220 is to make the heating value of the conductor plate M passing through the heated downstream side region (that is, the amount of heat applied to the conductor plate M) larger than the heating value of the conductor plate M passing through the heated upstream side region. In the following description, the region where the core has a smaller volume in the heated upstream side region and the heated downstream side region is referred to as a region where the amount of heat is reduced as needed. In addition, the region where the core has a larger volume is referred to as a region where the amount of heat is increased as needed. Figure 1 to Figure 4 In the example, the case where the heating upstream side region is a region where the heating amount decreases, and the heating downstream side region is a region where the heating amount increases is illustrated. Figure 1 , Figure 2A and Figure 2BIn the figure, the (heating amount reduction region) is indicated below the heating upstream region and the (heating amount increase region) is indicated below the heating downstream region, which indicates the above situation.

[0047] exist Figure 1 to Figure 4 In the example, the area from the coil upstream end position MU to the reference position SP in the heating longitudinal direction (y-axis direction) of the induction heating device 1000 is the heating upstream side area (heating amount reduction area). Figure 1 , Figure 2A and Figure 2B In FIG. 1 , the case where the area from the reference position SP to the most downstream position CD in the heating longitudinal direction (y-axis direction) of the upper inductor 1100 is the heating downstream area (heating amount increase area) is illustrated. Figure 1 , Figure 2A and Figure 2B In the example, the case where the area from the reference position SP to the most downstream position CD in the area of ​​the heating longitudinal direction (y-axis direction) of the lower inductor 1200 is the heating downstream area (heating amount increase area) is illustrated. The most downstream position CD is the position of the end portion of the upper inductor 1100 and the lower inductor 1200 located on the most downstream side (positive direction side of the y-axis) in the heating longitudinal direction (y-axis direction).

[0048] and Figure 1 to Figure 4 Contrary to the example shown, in one core of the upper inductor, the volume of the heated upstream area may be larger than the volume of the heated downstream area. Similarly, in one core of the lower inductor, the volume of the heated upstream area may be larger than the volume of the heated downstream area. This is done in the case where the heating value of the conductor plate M passing through the heated upstream area (i.e., the amount of heat generated by the conductor plate M) is larger than the heating value of the conductor plate M passing through the heated downstream area. In this case, the heated downstream area is an area where the amount of heat is reduced, and the heated upstream area is an area where the amount of heat is increased. For example, if it is set to Figure 1 to Figure 4 The induction heating device 1000 shown in FIG. 1 is rotated 180°, which is an example of an induction heating device in which the volume of the core is larger in the upstream area than in the downstream area. Therefore, the illustration of such an induction heating device is omitted. Figure 1 to Figure 4 When the induction heating device 1000 shown is rotated 180°, the position of the rotating axis in the heating longitudinal direction (y-axis direction) is, for example, the reference position SP. In addition, the position of the rotating axis in the width direction (x-axis direction) is, for example, the center position of the cores 1120 and 1220. In addition, the direction in which the rotating axis extends is, for example, the plate thickness direction (z-axis direction).

[0049] As described above, the volumes of the cores 1120 and 1220 are made different in the heating upstream region and the heating downstream region. Therefore, the heating value of the conductor plate M passing through the heating upstream region (i.e., the amount of heating applied to the conductor plate M) can be made different from the heating value of the conductor plate M passing through the heating downstream region to meet the quality required for the conductor plate M. Thus, the quality of the conductor plate M can be improved.

[0050] The degree to which the heating value of the conductor plate M passing through the heated downstream area and the heating value of the conductor plate M passing through the heated upstream area differ in order to satisfy the quality requirements for the conductor plate M is determined based on, for example, the results of a simulation experiment or a numerical analysis. In the simulation experiment, for example, an operation of heating the conductor plate M using an experimental device that simulates induction heating of the conductor plate M is performed. The quality of the conductor plate M can be confirmed based on the heated conductor plate M. In the numerical analysis, for example, a numerical simulation that simulates induction heating of the conductor plate M is performed. In the numerical simulation, for example, at least one of calculations of the magnetic flux density inside and outside the conductor plate M, calculations of the magnetic properties of the conductor plate M, and calculations of the crystal structure of the conductor plate M is performed. The quality of the conductor plate M can be confirmed based on the results of the numerical simulation.

[0051] The ratio of the volume of the cores 1120, 1220 in the heating amount increasing region to the volume of the cores 1120, 1220 in the heating amount decreasing region is determined according to the difference between the heating value of the conductor plate M passing through the heating downstream region and the heating value of the conductor plate M passing through the heating upstream region. From the viewpoint that the quality of the conductor plate M is clearly different when such a difference is provided and when such a difference is not provided, the ratio of the volume of the cores 1120, 1220 in the heating amount increasing region to the volume of the cores 1120, 1220 in the heating amount decreasing region is preferably 5.1 or more.

[0052] exist Figure 1 to Figure 4 In the example, the cores 1120 and 1220 are respectively provided with the central leg portions 1121 and 1221, the central body portions 1122 and 1222, the end body portions 1123 and 1223, and the end leg portions 1124 and 1224. Figure 1 to Figure 4 In the figure, for the convenience of expression and description, double-dotted lines (imaginary lines) are used to represent the central side leg portions 1121, 1221, the central side body portions 1122, 1222, the end side body portions 1123, 1223 and the end side leg portions 1124, 1224.

[0053] The central side legs 1121 and 1221 are respectively arranged in the hollow areas of the coils 1110 and 1210. Figure 1 to Figure 4, the case where the central leg portions 1121 and 1221 are arranged with the central position of the central leg portions 1121 and 1221 in the heating length direction (y-axis direction) as the reference position SP is illustrated. The end leg portions 1124 and 1224 are arranged closer to the heating amount increasing region side than the coils 1110 and 1210 (in Figure 1 to Figure 4 The center body parts 1122 and 1222 and the end body parts 1123 and 1223 are respectively arranged on the back side of the coils 1110 and 1210. The back side is the side opposite to the side where the conductor plate M is located (that is, the side where the conductor plate M does not exist). The back side of the upper sensor 1100 is the side where the lower sensor 1200 does not exist. The back side of the lower sensor 1200 is the side where the upper sensor 1100 does not exist. Figure 1 to Figure 4 In the example shown, the back side of the coil 1110 refers to the positive side of the z-axis than the coil 1110, and the back side of the coil 1210 refers to the negative side of the z-axis than the coil 1210. The central body parts 1122 and 1222 respectively include the central leg parts 1121 and 1221, which are closer to the heating amount increase area side (at Figure 1 to Figure 4 The end-side bodies 1123 and 1223 are respectively arranged on the side closer to the heating amount increasing region than the center-side bodies 1122 and 1222 and the coils 1110 and 1210.

[0054] exist Figure 1 to Figure 4 In the example, the central leg portions 1121, 1221, the central body portions 1122, 1222, the end body portions 1123, 1223, and the end leg portions 1124, 1224 have a rectangular parallelepiped shape. Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the case where the lengths of the central leg portions 1121, 1221, the central body portions 1122, 1222, the end body portions 1123, 1223, and the end leg portions 1124, 1224 in the width direction (x-axis direction) are the same is illustrated. Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the case where the front end surfaces (the end surfaces on the conductor plate M side) of the center side legs 1121 and 1221 are arranged closer to the conductor plate M side than the coils 1110 and 1210 is illustrated. Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the case where the coils 1110 and 1210 are arranged on the conductor plate M side relative to the front end surfaces of the end-side legs 1124 and 1224 is illustrated. Figure 1 to Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , the case where the lengths of the center body parts 1122 and 1222 and the end body parts 1123 and 1223 in the plate thickness direction (z-axis direction) are the same is illustrated. Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the case where the central body portion 1122 and the end body portion 1123 are magnetically connected as a whole to form a rectangular parallelepiped shape is illustrated. Figure 1 to Figure 4In the example, the central body portion 1222 and the end body portion 1223 are magnetically connected as a whole to form a rectangular parallelepiped. Magnetic connection refers to the flow of the same main magnetic flux as a reference. Figure 5 The main magnetic flux.

[0055] exist Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the case where the central body portion 1122 is arranged on the back side relative to the central leg portion 1121 is illustrated. Figure 1 to Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , the base end face (the end face on the side opposite to the conductor plate M) of the central leg portion 1121 is shown to be connected to the central body portion 1122 without a gap. Therefore, the same main magnetic flux as the main magnetic flux flowing in the central body portion 1122 flows through the central leg portion 1121. Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the case where the center-side body portion 1122 is arranged on the upstream side relative to the end-side body portion 1123 is illustrated. Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the downstream end surface of the center body portion 1122 and the upstream end surface of the end body portion 1123 are connected without a gap. Therefore, the same main magnetic flux as the main magnetic flux flowing through the end body portion 1123 flows through the center body portion 1122 .

[0056] In addition, Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the case where the end-side body portion 1123 is arranged on the back side relative to the end-side leg portion 1124 is illustrated. Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the case where the base end surface of the end-side leg portion 1124 is connected to the end-side body portion 1123 without a gap is illustrated. Therefore, the same main magnetic flux as the main magnetic flux flowing through the end-side leg portion 1124 flows through the end-side body portion 1123 .

[0057] In addition, Figure 1 to Figure 4 , a case is illustrated in which the front end surface of the center-side leg portion 1121 and the front end surface of the end-side leg portion 1124 face the plate surface (the surface on the positive direction side of the z-axis) of the conductor plate M with a gap therebetween.

[0058] Similarly, the case where the central body portion 1222 is arranged on the back side relative to the central leg portion 1221 is illustrated. Figure 1 to Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , the base end face (the end face on the side opposite to the conductor plate M) of the central leg portion 1221 is shown to be connected to the central body portion 1222 without a gap. Therefore, the same main magnetic flux as the main magnetic flux flowing in the central body portion 1222 flows through the central leg portion 1221. Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the case where the center-side body portion 1222 is arranged on the upstream side relative to the end-side body portion 1223 is illustrated. Figure 1 to Figure 4, the downstream end surface of the center body portion 1222 and the upstream end surface of the end body portion 1223 are connected without a gap. Therefore, the same main magnetic flux as the main magnetic flux flowing through the end body portion 1223 flows through the center body portion 1222 .

[0059] In addition, Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the case where the end-side body portion 1223 is arranged on the back side relative to the end-side leg portion 1224 is illustrated. Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the case where the base end surface of the end-side leg portion 1224 is connected to the end-side body portion 1223 without a gap is illustrated. Therefore, the same main magnetic flux as the main magnetic flux flowing through the end-side leg portion 1224 flows through the end-side body portion 1223 .

[0060] In addition, Figure 1 to Figure 4 , a case is illustrated in which the front end surface of the center-side leg portion 1221 and the front end surface of the end-side leg portion 1224 face the plate surface (the surface on the negative side in the z-axis direction) of the conductor plate M with a gap therebetween.

[0061] In addition, Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the positions of the ends of the central leg portions 1121, 1221, the central body portions 1122, 1222, the end body portions 1123, 1223, and the end leg portions 1124, 1224 in the width direction (x-axis direction) are respectively aligned. Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the case where the positions of the ends of the center-side legs 1121, 1221, the center-side trunks 1122, 1222, the end-side trunks 1123, 1223, and the end-side legs 1124, 1224 on the positive direction side of the x-axis are respectively the same. Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the case where the positions of the ends on the negative side of the x-axis of the center-side leg portions 1121 , 1221 , the center-side body portions 1122 , 1222 , the end-side body portions 1123 , 1223 , and the end-side leg portions 1124 , 1224 are respectively the same is illustrated.

[0062] In addition, Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the case where parts of the cores 1120 and 1220 other than the central leg portions 1121 and 1221 and the central body portions 1122 and 1222 do not exist in the heating amount reduction region is illustrated.

[0063] In addition, for the convenience of explanation, the structure of the core 1120, 1220 is described as being divided into the central leg portion 1121, 1221, the central body portion 1122, 1222, the end body portion 1123, 1223, and the end leg portion 1124, 1224. However, the central leg portion 1121, 1221, the central body portion 1122, 1222, the end body portion 1123, 1223, and the end leg portion 1124, 1224 are respectively integrated. Therefore, there is no boundary line at the boundary between the central leg portion 1121, 1221, the central body portion 1122, 1222, the end body portion 1123, 1223, and the end leg portion 1124, 1224. However, it is also possible to form one core by manufacturing and combining them as different parts. For example, at least two of the central leg portion 1121, the central body portion 1122, the end body portion 1123, and the end leg portion 1124 may be arranged in a state where they are spaced apart from each other. However, the at least two portions are constructed and arranged in such a way that the same main magnetic flux flows through the at least two portions. Similarly, at least two of the central leg portion 1221, the central body portion 1222, the end body portions 1123, 1223, and the end leg portion 1224 may be arranged in a state where they are spaced apart from each other. However, the at least two portions are constructed and arranged in such a way that the same main magnetic flux flows through the at least two portions.

[0064] In addition, the induction heating device 1000 of the present embodiment has leakage magnetic flux reduction components 1140 and 1240. The leakage magnetic flux reduction components 1140 and 1240 are respectively configured to reduce the leakage of magnetic flux generated by exciting the cores 1120 and 1220 by the alternating current flowing through the coils 1110 and 1210. The leakage magnetic flux is magnetic flux that does not contribute to the heating of the conductor plate M. The leakage magnetic flux is magnetic flux that does not pass through the conductor plate M among the magnetic flux generated from the cores 1120 and 1220.

[0065] The leakage flux reduction components 1140 and 1240 are arranged in the heating reduction region. Figure 1 to Figure 4 In the embodiment, the leakage flux reduction components 1140 and 1240 are arranged to face each other with a gap between the end surfaces of the back sides of the coils 1110 and 1210. In addition, in the present embodiment, the leakage flux reduction components are not arranged in the heating amount increasing region. However, the leakage flux reduction components may be arranged in the heating amount increasing region.

[0066] In addition, Figure 1 to Figure 4 In the example, the leakage flux reduction components 1140 and 1240 are each a single plate. Figure 1 to Figure 4, the case where the lengths of the leakage flux reduction components 1140 and 1240 in the width direction (x-axis direction) are the same as the lengths of the cores 1120 and 1220 in the width direction are illustrated. Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the example shows that the lengths of the leakage flux reduction components 1140 and 1240 in the heating length direction (y-axis direction) are the values ​​obtained by subtracting the lengths of the central side legs 1121 and 1221 in the heating length direction from the lengths of the central side bodies 1122 and 1222 in the heating length direction. Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the position of the surface on the back side of the leakage flux reduction components 1140 and 1240 is illustrated as being aligned with the position of the surface on the back side of the cores 1120 and 1220 (the positions of the surfaces in the z-axis direction are the same). Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the position of the ends of the leakage flux reduction components 1140 and 1240 in the width direction (x-axis direction) is illustrated as being aligned with the positions of the ends of the cores 1120 and 1220 in the width direction (the positions of the ends on the positive and negative sides of the x-axis are the same). Figure 1 to Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , a case where the plate surfaces of the plates constituting the leakage magnetic flux reducing members 1140 and 1240 and the plate surface of the conductor plate M are substantially parallel (preferably parallel) is illustrated.

[0067] From the viewpoint of reducing the leakage of magnetic flux generated by exciting the cores 1120 and 1220 by the alternating current flowing into the coil 1110, the leakage magnetic flux reduction components 1140 and 1240 are preferably formed of non-magnetic materials. In addition, from the viewpoint of suppressing the heat generation of the induction heating device 1000, the leakage magnetic flux reduction components 1140 and 1240 are more preferably formed of copper with high thermal conductivity. In this embodiment, the case where the leakage magnetic flux reduction components 1140 and 1240 each have one copper plate is illustrated. In addition, the leakage magnetic flux reduction components 1140 and 1240 can also be formed of, for example, a plurality of copper plates stacked in a manner that the plate surfaces face each other.

[0068] In addition, the induction heating device 1000 of the present embodiment has clamping components 1130 and 1230. The clamping components 1130 and 1230 are used for positioning the leakage flux reduction components 1140 and 1240, respectively, and ensuring electrical insulation of the coils 1110, 1210 and the leakage flux reduction components 1140 and 1240, etc. The clamping components 1130 and 1230 are respectively arranged between the leakage flux reduction components 1140 and 1240 and the coils 1110 and 1210. From the viewpoint of ensuring electrical insulation between the coils 1110 and 1210 and the leakage flux reduction components 1140 and 1240, and reducing the soft magnetic material in the heating reduction area, the clamping components 1130 and 1230 are preferably made of a resin material. The resin material is, for example, glass epoxy resin or phenolic resin. In Figure 1 to Figure 4 , the case where the intervening members 1130 and 1230 have a rectangular parallelepiped shape having the same size as the space between the leakage magnetic flux reducing members 1140 and 1240 and the coils 1110 and 1210 is exemplified.

[0069] like Figure 1 As shown, in the induction heating device 1000 of the present embodiment, the cores 1120 and 1220 do not exist on the upstream side (negative side of the y-axis) of the central side legs 1121 and 1221, respectively. Therefore, if the leakage flux reduction components 1140 and 1240 are not present, for example, the magnetic flux flowing out from the cores 1120 and 1220 to the downstream side (negative side of the y-axis) of the cores 1120 and 1220 is likely to become the leakage magnetic flux that does not pass through the conductor plate M. In contrast, by configuring the leakage magnetic flux reduction components 1140 and 1240, the magnetic flux flowing out from the cores 1120 and 1220 to the downstream side (negative side of the y-axis) of the cores 1120 and 1220 is likely to be directed toward the conductor plate M (refer to FIG. 1 ) compared to the case where the leakage magnetic flux reduction components 1140 and 1240 are not configured. Figure 5 Therefore, these magnetic fluxes are less likely to become leakage magnetic fluxes (that is, they are more likely to become main magnetic fluxes).

[0070] In addition, the induction heating device 1000 may also have a shielding plate (not shown) for preventing overheating of the edge portion (end portion in the width direction) of the conductor plate M. For example, the shielding plates are respectively arranged between the edge portion of the conductor plate M and the cores 1120 and 1220. In addition, the shielding plate may also move in accordance with the width of the conductor plate M and the meandering amount (movement amount in the width direction) of the conductor plate M. In addition, the shielding plate is used to suppress the main magnetic flux from passing through the edge portion of the conductor plate M, rather than to reduce the leakage magnetic flux.

[0071] Fig. 6AThis is a diagram conceptually showing an example of the heating amount of the conductor plate M heated by using the induction heating device 1000 according to the present embodiment. Figure 6B This is a diagram conceptually showing an example of the heat generation of a conductor plate M heated using two common induction heating devices as induction heating devices. The two common induction heating devices are arranged with a space between them in the heating longitudinal direction (x-axis direction).

[0072] exist Fig. 6A In, P min is the minimum value of the heat generated at a certain portion of the conductor plate M passing through the induction heating device 1000. This portion is, for example, the center portion in the width direction (x-axis direction). Fig. 6A As shown in FIG. 1 , the heat generated at each location of the conductor plate M passing through the induction heating device 1000 of the present embodiment is the smallest at the most upstream end position MU of the coil. max is the maximum value of the heat generated by a certain portion of the conductor plate M passing through the induction heating device 1000. Fig. 6A As shown in FIG. 1 , the heat generated at each portion of the conductor plate M passing through the induction heating device 1000 of this embodiment is the largest at the most downstream position CD. Fig. 6A In, P A , P B It is the amount of heat generated at a certain portion of the conductor plate M passing through the center-side leg portions 1121 and 1221 of the induction heating device 1000 .

[0073] As described above, in the induction heating device 1000 of the present embodiment, the volume of the heating upstream region and the volume of the heating downstream region are made different in one core 1120, 1220. By adjusting the volume of the heating upstream region and the volume of the heating downstream region, the heat generation of each portion of the conductor plate M passing through the central leg portion 1121, 1221 of the induction heating device 1000 can be adjusted to the heat generation P A , P B wait( Fig. 6A The double-arrow line shown in FIG. 1 indicates this situation). Therefore, the heating value of the conductor plate M on the downstream side of the reference position SP (i.e., the amount of heating for the conductor plate M) can be made different from the heating value of the conductor plate M on the upstream side of the reference position SP. Thus, a difference can be achieved between the heating rate in the heating longitudinal direction (y-axis direction) in the region on the upstream side of the reference position SP and the heating rate in the heating longitudinal direction in the region on the downstream side of the reference position SP by one core 1120, 1220. As described above, by adjusting the volume of the heating upstream side region and the volume of the heating downstream side region, the quality of the conductor plate M can be adjusted.

[0074] exist Figure 6B, CU1 represents the most upstream position of the induction heating device arranged on the upstream side of the two common induction heating devices. The most upstream position is the position of the end of the upper inductor and the lower inductor that is located on the most upstream side (negative direction side of the y-axis) in the heating longitudinal direction (y-axis direction). In addition, in the induction heating device 1000 of this embodiment, the case where the coil most upstream end position MU and the most upstream position are the same position is illustrated.

[0075] MU1 indicates the most upstream end position of the coil of the induction heating device arranged on the upstream side. SP1 indicates the reference position of the induction heating device arranged on the upstream side. MD1 indicates the most downstream end position of the coil of the induction heating device arranged on the upstream side. CD1 indicates the most downstream position of the induction heating device arranged on the upstream side.

[0076] P 1min It is the minimum value of the heat generated at a certain part of the conductor plate M of the induction heating device arranged on the upstream side while passing through two conventional induction heating devices. Figure 6B As shown in FIG. 1 , the heat generated at each portion of the conductor plate M passing through the induction heating device disposed on the upstream side is the smallest at the most upstream position CU1 of the coil. 1max is the maximum value of the heat generated at a certain part of the conductor plate M passing through the induction heating device arranged on the upstream side. Figure 6B As shown in FIG. 1 , the heat generated by each portion of the conductor plate M passing through the induction heating device disposed on the upstream side is the largest at the most downstream position CD1. Figure 6B In, P 1C It is the amount of heat generated at a certain portion of the conductor plate M passing through the center leg portion of the induction heating device disposed on the upstream side.

[0077] In a conventional induction heating device, the volume of one core is the same in the upstream heating area and the downstream heating area. Therefore, the heat generation P of each part of the conductor plate M of the central leg of the upstream induction heating device is 1C The maximum value P of the heat amount of the portion of the conductor plate M passing through the induction heating device arranged on the upstream side is fixed. 1max 1 / 2 times.

[0078] In addition, Figure 6B, CU2 represents the most upstream position of the induction heating device arranged on the downstream side among the two common induction heating devices. MU2 represents the most upstream end position of the coil of the induction heating device arranged on the downstream side. SP2 represents the reference position of the induction heating device arranged on the downstream side. MD2 represents the most downstream end position of the coil of the induction heating device arranged on the downstream side. CD2 represents the most downstream position of the induction heating device arranged on the upstream side.

[0079] P 2min It is the minimum value of the heat generated at a certain part of the conductor plate M of the induction heating device arranged on the downstream side while passing through two conventional induction heating devices. Figure 6B As shown in FIG. 1 , the heat generated at each portion of the conductor plate M passing through the induction heating device arranged on the downstream side is the smallest at the most upstream position CU2 of the coil. 2max is the maximum value of the heat generated at a certain part of the conductor plate M passing through the induction heating device arranged on the downstream side. Figure 6B As shown in FIG. 1 , the heat generated by each part of the conductor plate M passing through the induction heating device arranged on the downstream side is the largest at the most downstream position CD2. Figure 6B In, P 2C It is the amount of heat generated at a certain portion of the conductor plate M passing through the center leg portion of the induction heating device disposed on the downstream side.

[0080] As described above, in a conventional induction heating device, the volume of one core is the same in the upstream heating region and the downstream heating region. Therefore, the heat generation P of each part of the conductor plate M of the central leg portion of the downstream induction heating device passing through the two conventional induction heating devices is 2C The maximum value P of the heat amount at the portion of the conductor plate M passing through the induction heating device arranged on the downstream side is fixed. 2max 1 / 2 times.

[0081] In the induction heating devices described in Patent Documents 1 to 3, the volume of one core is the same in the upstream heating area and the downstream heating area. Therefore, the heating value of the conductor plate M upstream of the reference positions SP1 and SP2 (i.e., the amount of heating for the conductor plate M) can only be made the same as the heating value of the conductor plate M downstream of the reference positions SP1 and SP2. In addition, if multiple induction heating devices are not used, the heating value of the conductor plate M in the long heating direction (y-axis direction) cannot be adjusted. That is, if multiple cores are not used as the cores of the upper inductor, the heating value of the conductor plate M in the long heating direction (y-axis direction) cannot be adjusted. Similarly, if multiple cores are not used as the cores of the lower inductor, the heating value of the conductor plate M in the long heating direction (y-axis direction) cannot be adjusted. Therefore, compared with the induction heating device 1000 of the present embodiment, the time for the conductor plate M to be heated by the induction heating device becomes longer. In addition, if Figure 6B As shown in FIG. 1 , an area where the conductor plate M is not heated occurs between the two induction heating devices. Therefore, when the conductor plate M is transported between the two induction heating devices, the temperature of the conductor plate M may drop. As described above, in addition to the possibility that the quality required of the conductor plate M may not be satisfied, the following disadvantages may also occur, for example. That is, a large space must be secured in order to install the induction heating device. In addition, the cost increases due to the installation of multiple induction heating devices.

[0082] (Design Method)

[0083] Next, a method for designing the size of the cores 1120 and 1220 constituting an induction heating device that can induction heat a conductor plate to meet the quality required of the conductor plate is described as an example. Here, the method for designing the size of the cores 1120 and 1220 is described in a case where the heating upstream side region is a region where the heating amount decreases and the heating downstream side region is a region where the heating amount increases.

[0084] Let the length (mm) of the leakage flux reduction component 1140, 1240 in the heating length direction (y-axis direction) be W1. Let the length (mm) of the central side body portion 1122, 1222 in the heating length direction (y-axis direction) be W2 (>W1). Let the length (mm) of the end side body portion 1123, 1223 in the heating length direction (y-axis direction) be W3. Let the length (mm) of the end side leg portion 1124, 1224 in the plate thickness direction (z-axis direction) be W4. Let the length (mm) of the area of ​​the central side leg portion 1121, 1221 that protrudes further toward the conductor plate M than the front end surface of the coil 1110, 1210 in the plate thickness direction (z-axis direction) be W5. In addition, Figure 1 to Figure 4 W1 to W5 shown indicate these lengths.

[0085] In addition, the heating value ratio (%) of a certain area of ​​the conductor plate M is P (P1 to P4). The heating value ratio P of a certain area of ​​the conductor plate M is a value expressed as a percentage of the heating value of the area when the area passes through the upstream heating area to the heating value of the area when the area passes through the induction heating device 1000 (the upstream heating area and the downstream heating area). Fig. 6A In the example shown, the calorific value ratio P is P A ÷P max ×100 and P B ÷P max ×100 indicates.

[0086] The inventors made different combinations of the numerical values ​​of W1 to W5 to form the core, performed numerical analysis on the induction heating device, and calculated the heat generation ratio P under each combination. In addition, the conditions other than the numerical values ​​of W1 to W5 are set to the same conditions. In addition, in the expression of the following numerical formula, it is assumed that the numerical values ​​assigned as each symbol P1 to P4, W1 to W5 are 0 (zero) or positive values. Therefore, for example, -W1 is 0 (zero) or a negative value.

[0087] First, the heat generation ratio P, that is, P1, is calculated by numerical analysis when only W1 and W2 are changed. In addition, when W1 and W2 are changed, the condition of W2>W1 is satisfied. In addition, after W1+W2 is set to a certain value, Figure 1 Compared with the case where W1 is shortened, Figure 1 In the region of the interposing members 1130, 1230 and the leakage flux reducing members 1140, 1240 shown in FIG. Figure 1 The area of ​​the core 1120 is a part of the area of ​​the core 1120, and W2 is lengthened. That is, the central body parts 1122 and 1222 are moved toward the heating amount reduction area side (in the positive direction of the y axis). Figure 1 The coil is extended by 1 / (1 / 2) (in the negative direction of the y-axis). However, the position MU of the most upstream end of the coil does not change. Moreover, based on the results of the numerical analysis, a regression equation (regression coefficient and constant) representing the relationship between P1 and W1 and W2 is calculated by regression analysis. The result is shown in the following formula (1). By setting P1 as a function of W1 / (W1+W2), the result of the numerical analysis can be well reproduced. In formula (1), the larger W1 is, the smaller P1 is. In addition, formula (1) is a simple regression equation with W1 / (W1+W2) as the explanatory variable.

[0088] [Formula 1]

[0089]

[0090] Next, the calorific value ratio P, that is, P2, is calculated by numerical analysis when W3 is different in addition to W1 and W2. And, based on the result of the numerical analysis, a regression equation for P1 including formula (1) is calculated by regression analysis as a regression equation representing the relationship between P2 and W1, W2, and W3. The result is shown in the following formula (2). By expressing P2 with the formula obtained by subtracting the function f(W3 / (W2+W3)) of W3 / (W2+W3) from P1, the result of the numerical analysis can be well reproduced. In formula (2), the larger W3 is, the smaller P2 is. The function f(W3 / (W2+W3)) on the right side of equation (2) indicates that, when the end side body portions 1123, 1223 are present, each region of the conductor plate M in the heating downstream region (heating amount increase region) generates more heat by an amount corresponding to the value of the function f(W3 / (W2+W3)) than when the end side body portions 1123, 1223 are not present. In addition, equation (2) is a multiple regression equation with W1 / (W1+W2) and W3 / (W2+W3) as explanatory variables.

[0091] [Formula 2]

[0092]

[0093] Next, the heat generation ratio P, i.e., P4, is calculated by numerical analysis when W4 is different in addition to W1, W2, and W3. And, based on the result of the numerical analysis, a regression equation of P2 including equation (2) is calculated by regression analysis as a regression equation representing the relationship between P4 and W1, W2, W3, and W4. The result is shown in the following equation (3). By expressing P3 by an equation obtained by subtracting the function f(W4) of W4 from P2, the result of the numerical analysis can be well reproduced. In equation (3), the larger W4 is, the smaller P3 is. The function f(W4) on the right side of equation (3) indicates that, when the end side legs 1124 and 1224 are present, each area of ​​the conductor plate M in the heating downstream area (area where the amount of heating increases) generates more heat by an amount equivalent to f(W4) than when the end side legs 1124 and 1224 are not present. In addition, equation (3) is a multiple regression equation with W1 / (W1+W2), W3 / (W2+W3) and W4 as explanatory variables.

[0094] [Formula 3]

[0095] P3=P2-f(W4)···(3)

[0096] Finally, the heat generation ratio P4 is calculated by numerical analysis when W1, W2, W3, W4 and W5 are different. And, based on the result of the numerical analysis, the regression equation of P3 including the equation (3) is calculated by regression analysis as the regression equation representing the relationship between P and W1, W2, W3, W4 and W5. The result is shown in the following equation (4). By expressing P4 with the equation obtained by adding the function f(W5) of W5 to P3, the result of the numerical analysis can be well reproduced. In equation (4), the larger W5 is, the larger P4 is. The function f(W5) on the right side of equation (4) indicates that, compared with the case where the central side leg 1121, 1221 does not protrude further toward the conductor plate M than the front end surface of the coil 1110, 1210, the heat generated by each area of ​​the conductor plate M in the heating upstream area (heat reduction area) when the central side leg 1121, 1221 protrudes is equivalent to f(W5). In addition, equation (4) is a multiple regression equation with W1 / (W1+W2), W3 / (W2+W3), W4 and W5 as explanatory variables.

[0097] [Formula 4]

[0098] P4=P3+f(W5)···(4)

[0099] If P4 is set based on the quality required for the conductor plate M to be heated, and W1, W2, W3, W4, and W5 are selected in a manner that satisfies equations (1) to (4), W1, W2, W3, W4, and W5 can be designed. At least one of W1, W3, W4, and W5 may be 0 (zero). W1 being 0 (zero) means that the clamping components 1130, 1230 and the leakage flux reduction components 1140, 1240 are not configured. W3 being 0 (zero) means that the end side body portions 1123, 1223 and the end side leg portions 1124, 1224 are not configured. W4 being 0 (zero) means that the end side leg portions 1124, 1224 are not configured. On the other hand, W2 will not become 0 (zero).

[0100] As described above, P4 is determined based on the results of simulation experiments or numerical analysis, for example. In the case of a simulation experiment, for example, the heat input amount is made different in the area corresponding to the area where the heating amount is reduced and the area corresponding to the area where the heating amount is increased, and the conductor plate is heated by induction heating or other methods. By confirming the quality of the conductor plate after heating, it is confirmed whether the quality required for the conductor plate is met. In this case, P4 is determined using the heat input amount when the quality required for the conductor plate is met. In addition, in the case of a numerical analysis, for example, the crystal structure and magnetic properties of the conductor plate when the conductor plate is induction heated are calculated by making the heat input amount different in the area corresponding to the area where the heating amount is reduced and the area corresponding to the area where the heating amount is increased. In addition, in the numerical analysis, the evaluation index of the crystal structure and magnetic properties of the conductor plate can also be calculated. In this case, if the calculated result meets the quality required for the conductor plate, P4 is determined using the heat input amount at that time.

[0101] (Other embodiments)

[0102] In addition, the embodiments of the present invention described above are only examples of implementation of the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention cannot be limited by them. That is, the present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from its technical concept or its main features.

[0103] Industrial Applicability

[0104] The present invention can be used, for example, to heat a conductor plate.

Claims

1. A horizontal induction heating device, comprising an upper inductor and a lower inductor, wherein the upper inductor and the lower inductor are arranged opposite to each other with a conductor plate interposed therebetween, wherein the horizontal induction heating device induction heats the conductor plate by causing an alternating magnetic field to intersect with a plate surface of the conductor plate. The upper inductor and the lower inductor each have a coil and a core. The volume of the core of the upper inductor is different in the heating upstream area of ​​the core and in the heating downstream area of ​​the core, and the volume of the core of the lower inductor is different in the heating upstream area of ​​the core and in the heating downstream area of ​​the core, The heating upstream area of ​​the core is an area on the upstream side of the core in the conveying direction of the conductor plate, relative to the reference position of the core. The heated downstream area of ​​the core is an area on the downstream side of the core in the conveying direction of the conductor plate relative to the reference position of the core. The reference position of the core is the center position in the heating length direction between the most upstream end position of the coil of the core and the most downstream end position of the coil of the core. The heating longitudinal direction is parallel to the conveying direction of the conductor plate. The most upstream end position of the coil of the core is the position of the end of the coil arranged relative to the core, which is located closest to the upstream side in the heating length direction. The most downstream end position of the coil of the core is the position of the end of the coil located most downstream in the heating length direction among the coils arranged relative to the core. The same main magnetic flux flows through one of the cores of the upper inductor. The same main magnetic flux flows through one of the cores of the lower inductor. The main magnetic flux is a magnetic flux passing through the conductor plate.

2. The lateral induction heating device according to claim 1, The upper inductor and the lower inductor each have a leakage flux reducing member for reducing leakage flux. The leakage magnetic flux includes the magnetic flux generated from the core that does not pass through the conductor plate. The leakage flux reduction member is arranged in the heating amount reduction area. The heating amount reduction region is a region where the volume of the core is small in the heating upstream region and the heating downstream region.

3. The lateral induction heating device according to claim 2, The leakage magnetic flux reducing member is made of a non-magnetic material.

4. The lateral induction heating device according to claim 3, The leakage magnetic flux reducing member includes copper.

5. The lateral induction heating device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, The leakage flux reduction member is not arranged in the heating amount increasing area. The heating amount increased region is a region where the volume of the core is large in the heating upstream region and the heating downstream region.

6. The lateral induction heating device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, The leakage flux reducing member is arranged on the back side relative to the coil. The back side is a side opposite to a side where the conductor plate exists.

7. The lateral induction heating device according to any one of claims 2 to 6, The upper inductor and the lower inductor each have an interposing member for electrically insulating the leakage magnetic flux reducing member from the coil.

8. The lateral induction heating device according to any one of claims 2 to 7, The leakage flux reduction component has one or more plates. The plate surface of the plate is substantially parallel to the plate surface of the conductor plate.

9. The lateral induction heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The ratio of the volume of the core in the heating amount increasing region to the volume of the core in the heating amount decreasing region is 5.1 or more, The heating amount reduction region is a region where the volume of the core is small in the heating upstream region and the heating downstream region. The heating amount increased region is a region where the volume of the core is large in the heating upstream region and the heating downstream region.

10. The lateral induction heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The core has: a central side leg portion, arranged in a hollow area of ​​the coil; and The central body portion is passed through by the same main magnetic flux as the main magnetic flux flowing to the central leg portion. The front end surface of the central leg portion faces the conductor plate with a gap therebetween. The central body portion includes a region closer to the heating amount increasing region than the central leg portion. The heating amount increasing region is a region where the volume of the core is large in the heating upstream region and the heating downstream region. The central body portion is arranged on the back side relative to the coil. The back side is a side opposite to a side where the conductor plate exists.

11. The lateral induction heating device according to claim 10, The upper inductor and the lower inductor each have a leakage flux reducing member for reducing leakage flux. The leakage magnetic flux includes the magnetic flux generated from the core that does not pass through the conductor plate. The leakage flux reduction member is arranged in the heating amount reduction area. The heating amount reduction region is a region where the volume of the core is small in the heating upstream region and the heating downstream region. The length of the central body portion in the heating longitudinal direction is longer than the length of the leakage magnetic flux reducing member in the heating longitudinal direction.

12. The lateral induction heating device according to claim 10 or 11, The core has an end body portion, in which flows a main magnetic flux which is the same as the main magnetic flux flowing to the center body portion. The end-side body portion is disposed on the back side relative to the coil, and is disposed on the heating amount increasing region side relative to the center-side leg portion and the coil.

13. The lateral induction heating device according to claim 12, The core has an end-side leg portion, in which flows a main magnetic flux which is the same as the main magnetic flux flowing to the end-side body portion. The end-side leg portion is arranged on the side of the heating amount increasing region relative to the central-side body portion and the coil, and is arranged on the side of the conductor plate relative to the end-side body portion. The front end surface of the end-side leg portion faces the conductor plate with a gap therebetween.

14. The lateral induction heating device according to claim 13, The coil is arranged on the conductor plate side relative to the front end surface of the end-side leg portion.

15. The lateral induction heating device according to any one of claims 10 to 14, The portion of the core other than the central leg portion and the central body portion does not exist in the heating amount reduction region, The heating amount reduction region is a region where the volume of the core is small in the heating upstream region and the heating downstream region.

16. The lateral induction heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, The volume of the core in the heating downstream region is larger than the volume of the core in the heating upstream region.

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