Induction energy transmission system

Abstract

The invention relates to an induction energy transmission system (10a; 10b), in particular an induction cooking system, comprising a cooktop plate (12a; 12b), a supply unit (14a; 14b) that is arranged below the cooktop plate (12a; 12b) and includes at least one supply induction element (16a; 16b) for inductively providing energy, further comprising a control unit (18a; 18b) which controls the supply unit (14a; 14b) in an operating state and supplies it with energy, and comprising at least one placement unit (20a, 22a; 20b, 22b) to be placed on the cooktop plate (12a; 12b), said placement unit (20a, 22a; 20b, 22b) having at least one accepting induction element (24a; 24b) for receiving the inductively provided energy. In order to improve ease of use, the control unit (18a; 18b) in the operating state modulates at least one control parameter (26a, 26a') of one of the supply units (14a; 14b) within a modulation period (28a, 28a', 80a, 80a', 84a, 84a', 88a, 88a', 92a, 92a', 182a'') by way of at least one modulation technique.

Description

[0001] Induction energy transfer system

[0002] The invention relates to an induction energy transmission system according to the preamble of claim 1 and a method for operating an induction energy transmission system according to the preamble of claim 14.

[0003] Induction energy transmission systems for the inductive transmission of energy from a primary coil of a supply unit to a secondary coil of a mounting unit are already known from the prior art. For example, US Pat. No. 3,761,668 A proposes an induction hob that, in addition to inductively heating cookware, is also intended to supply energy to small household appliances, such as a blender. Energy provided inductively by a primary coil of the induction hob is partially transmitted to a secondary coil integrated into the small household appliance.Due to the wide power spectrum required to supply energy to various installation units, the control parameters of the supply unit, such as a switching frequency and / or duty cycle, must be able to be varied over a particularly wide range to control and supply energy to the supply unit in order to adjust the power supply for a specific small household appliance as needed. Depending on the switching frequency and / or duty cycle, unwanted electromagnetic interference, such as noise or flicker, can occur, which severely limits user comfort.

[0004] The object of the invention is, in particular but not limited to, to provide a generic device with improved properties regarding ease of use. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of claims 1 and 14, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the subclaims.

[0005] The invention is based on an induction energy transmission system, in particular an induction cooking system, with a mounting plate, with a supply unit arranged below the mounting plate, which has at least one supply induction element for the inductive provision of energy, with a control unit which, in an operating state, controls the supply unit and supplies it with energy and with at least one mounting unit for mounting on the mounting plate, wherein the mounting unit has at least one receiving induction element for receiving the inductively provided energy.

[0006] It is proposed that the control unit, in the operating state, modulates at least one control parameter of a control parameter set of the supply unit within a modulation period by means of at least one modulation technique.

[0007] Such a configuration advantageously provides an induction energy transmission system with improved properties in terms of ease of use, in particular with regard to comfortable and / or safe and / or low-noise operation. Compliance with EMC standards and / or flicker conformity can advantageously be achieved using simple technical means. A spectral power density of a switching frequency of the supply unit can advantageously be reduced by means of frequency modulation. Flicker can advantageously be avoided at least largely, in particular essentially completely, according to a flicker standard, in particular according to the DIN EN 61000-3-3 standard and / or the IEC standard 1000-3-3, in particular through advantageous control of individual or multiple supply induction elements.Furthermore, adverse acoustic exposure to the operator can be avoided, resulting in a high level of operating comfort and a positive operating experience for the operator, particularly with regard to acoustic quality. Furthermore, the requirements for an EMC filter can be advantageously reduced, thus reducing material costs.

[0008] The induction energy transmission system has at least one main functionality in the form of wireless energy transmission, in particular a wireless energy supply to installation units, for example, small household appliances and / or cooking utensils. In an advantageous embodiment, the induction energy transmission system is designed as an induction cooking system with at least one further main function that differs from a pure cooking function, in particular at least an energy supply and operation of small household appliances. For example, the induction energy transmission system could be designed as an induction oven system and / or as an induction grill system. In particular, the supply unit could be designed as part of an induction oven and / or as part of an induction grill.In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the induction energy transmission system designed as an induction cooking system is designed as an induction hob system comprising at least one hob, in particular an induction hob. The control unit and the supply unit are then designed in particular as part of the hob, in particular the induction hob. In a further advantageous embodiment, the induction energy transmission system is designed as a small household appliance supply system, which comprises at least one small appliance supply unit and, in addition to a main function in the form of supplying energy to and operating small household appliances, can also be provided for providing cooking functions. The control unit and the supply unit are then designed in particular as part of the small appliance supply unit.

[0009] A "support plate" is understood to mean at least one, in particular plate-like, unit intended for supporting at least one small household appliance and / or one cooking utensil and / or for supporting at least one item of food. The support plate could, for example, be designed as a worktop, in particular as a kitchen worktop, or as a partial area of ​​at least one worktop, in particular at least one kitchen worktop, in particular of the induction energy transmission system. Alternatively or additionally, the support plate could be designed as a hob plate.The installation plate designed as a hob plate could, in particular, form at least part of a hob outer housing and, in particular, together with at least one outer housing unit, to which the installation plate designed as a hob plate could, in particular, be connected in at least one assembled state, form at least a large part of the hob outer housing. The installation plate is preferably made of a non-metallic material. The installation plate could, for example, be formed at least largely from glass and / or glass ceramic and / or Neolith and / or Dekton and / or wood and / or marble and / or stone, in particular natural stone, and / or laminate and / or plastic and / or ceramic.In this document, position designations such as “below” or “above” refer to an assembled state of the mounting plate, unless explicitly described otherwise.

[0010] A "supply unit" is understood to mean a unit that inductively provides energy in at least one operating state and, in particular, has a primary functionality in the form of energy provision. To provide energy, the supply unit has at least one supply induction element, which has at least one coil, in particular at least one primary coil, and / or is designed as a coil, and which, in particular, provides energy inductively in the operating state.The supply unit could have at least two, in particular at least three, advantageously at least four, particularly advantageously at least five, preferably at least eight, and particularly preferably a plurality of supply induction elements, each of which could inductively provide energy in the operating state, in particular to a single receiving induction element or to at least two or more receiving induction elements of at least one installation unit and / or at least one further installation unit. At least some of the supply induction elements could be arranged in close proximity to one another, for example, in a row and / or in the form of a matrix.

[0011] A “control unit” is to be understood as an electronic unit which, in the operating state, controls and supplies energy to at least one supply induction element of the supply unit, in particular repetitively with a switching frequency. Preferably, the control unit has at least one inverter for controlling and supplying energy to the at least one supply induction element, which inverter can be designed in particular as a resonant inverter and preferably as a dual half-bridge inverter. The inverter preferably comprises at least two switching elements which can be individually controlled by the control unit. A “switching element” is to be understood as an element which is intended to establish and / or break an electrically conductive connection between two points, in particular contacts of the switching element. The switching element preferably has at least one control contact via which it can be switched.The switching element is preferably designed as a semiconductor switching element, in particular as a transistor, for example as a metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) or organic field-effect transistor (OFET), advantageously as a bipolar transistor with preferably an insulated gate electrode (IGBT). Alternatively, it is conceivable for the switching element to be designed as a mechanical and / or electromechanical switching element, in particular as a relay. The control unit preferably comprises a computing unit and, in particular, in addition to the computing unit, a memory unit with at least one control program stored therein, which is intended to be executed by the computing unit.

[0012] A "installation unit" is understood to mean a unit which, in at least one operating state, inductively receives energy and at least partially converts the inductively received energy into at least one further form of energy to provide at least one main function. For example, the energy inductively received by the installation unit could be converted, in particular directly, into at least one further form of energy, such as heat, in the operating state. Alternatively or additionally, the installation unit could have at least one electrical consumer, for example an electric motor or the like. The installation unit has at least one receiving induction element for receiving the inductively provided energy.The installation unit could, for example, have at least two, in particular at least three, advantageously at least four, particularly advantageously at least five, preferably at least eight, and particularly preferably a plurality of receiving induction elements, each of which could inductively receive energy, particularly from the supply induction element, particularly in the operating state. The installation unit could, for example, be designed as a cooking utensil. The cooking utensil preferably has at least one food receiving space and, in the operating state, converts the inductively received energy at least partially into heat for heating food arranged in the food receiving space.Preferably, the installation unit designed as a cooking utensil has at least one further unit for providing at least one further function that goes beyond and / or differs from simply heating food. For example, the further unit could be designed as a temperature sensor or as a stirring unit or the like. Alternatively, the installation unit could be designed as a small household appliance. Preferably, the small household appliance is a location-independent household appliance that has at least the receiving induction element and at least one functional unit that provides at least one household appliance function in an operating state.In this context, "location-independent" means that the small household appliance can be positioned freely within a household by a user, in particular without any tools, particularly in contrast to a large household appliance, which is permanently positioned and / or installed at a specific location within a household, such as an oven or a refrigerator. Preferably, the small household appliance is designed as a small kitchen appliance and, in its operating state, provides at least one main function for processing food.The small household appliance could, for example, be designed as, but not limited to, a food processor and / or as a blender and / or as a stirrer and / or as a grinder and / or as a kitchen scale or as a kettle or as a coffee maker or as a rice cooker or as a milk frother or as a deep fryer or as a toaster or as a juicer or as a cutting machine or the like.

[0013] The receiving induction element of the installation unit comprises at least one secondary coil and / or is designed as a secondary coil. In an operating state of the installation unit, the receiving induction element supplies at least one consumer of the installation unit with electrical energy. Furthermore, it is conceivable for the installation unit to have an energy storage device, in particular an accumulator, which is designed to store electrical energy received via the receiving induction element in a charged state and to make it available in a discharged state to supply a functional unit of the installation unit.

[0014] The control parameter set of the supply unit comprises at least two different control parameters, based on which the control unit controls an amount of energy provided inductively by at least one of the supply induction elements of the supply unit in the operating state. The control parameter set can, for example, comprise a switching frequency of the supply unit as the first control parameter and a duty cycle of the supply unit as the second control parameter of the supply unit. The control parameter set can also comprise further control parameters of the supply unit that appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art. In the operating state, the control unit can modulate several, in particular all, control parameters within the modulation period using at least one modulation technique.Preferably, the control unit modulates exactly one control parameter of the supply unit's control parameter set within the modulation period and keeps the other control parameters constant within the modulation period. For example, the control unit can modulate the switching frequency using frequency modulation and keep the duty cycle constant within the modulation period. It is also conceivable for the control unit to modulate a first control parameter, for example, the switching frequency, within a first modulation period and to modulate a second control parameter, for example, the duty cycle, using duty cycle modulation within a second modulation period following the first modulation period.

[0015] A “modulation period” is to be understood as a period of time in which the control unit modulates the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set using at least one modulation technique.

[0016] The modulation technology is intended to reduce, and preferably minimize, interference that can be caused during operation of the induction energy transmission system, for example by individual peaks in the switching frequency. Interference can be influences that are perceptible to a user and perceived as undesirable and / or influences that are prohibited by law. For example, interference could take the form of flicker. Alternatively or additionally, interference could be undesirable acoustic influences, particularly in a frequency range between 20 Hz and 20 kHz that is perceptible to the average human ear. Interference could be caused in particular by intermodulation and manifest itself in acoustically perceptible noise. “Intermodulation” is understood to mean the sum and / or difference products of individual alternating current frequencies ortheir nth harmonic, where n stands for an integer greater than zero. Interference can also, alternatively or additionally, be caused by the occurrence of a ripple current, i.e. an alternating current of any frequency and waveform, which is superimposed on a direct current and manifests itself in an undesirable humming sound. Interference in this context does not include technical faults and / or defects. In this document, numerals such as "first" and "second", which precede certain terms, serve only to differentiate between objects and / or to assign objects to one another and do not imply any existing total number and / or ranking of the objects. In particular, a "second object" does not necessarily imply the presence of a "first object".

[0017] "Intended" should be understood as specifically programmed, designed, and / or equipped. The fact that an object is intended for a specific function should be understood as meaning that the object fulfills and / or performs this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

[0018] It is further proposed that the control parameter set comprise a switching frequency of the supply unit, which the control unit modulates within the modulation period by means of at least one frequency modulation. This advantageously makes it possible to reduce, in particular minimize, disruptive influences, for example noise emissions, of the induction energy transmission system in the operating state using simple technical means, thus improving operating comfort. Preferably, the control unit controls at least one supply induction element with an alternating electrical current to generate an alternating magnetic field and to supply electrical energy, the switching frequency of which is preferably in a range from 20 kHz to 150 kHz and particularly preferably in a range from 30 kHz to 75 kHz. “Frequency modulation” is to be understood as a modulation method on the basis of which the control unit varies the switching frequency.Frequency modulation can, for example, comprise at least one method known as "spread spectrum" or "spread spectrum clocking." Other frequency modulation methods are conceivable as alternatives or in addition.

[0019] It is also proposed that the control parameter set include a duty cycle of the supply unit, which the control unit modulates within the modulation period by means of at least one duty cycle modulation. This advantageously provides a further possibility for reducing, in particular minimizing, interference in the operating state of the induction energy transmission system using simple technical means.In this context, a "duty cycle" is understood to mean a control parameter of the control parameter set of the supply unit, which describes a ratio of a pulse duration, in which an inverter switching element of the inverter unit is closed and at least one supply induction element of the supply unit is subjected to an electrical alternating current pulse, and a period duration, in this case half a period duration of a mains alternating voltage of a power supply network, by means of which the induction energy transmission system is supplied with electrical energy in the operating state. The duty cycle can assume values ​​between 0% and 100%. Duty cycle modulation can, for example, comprise at least one method known under the term "pulse width modulation." Other methods of duty cycle modulation are conceivable as alternatives or in addition.

[0020] Furthermore, it is proposed that the modulation period correspond to an integer multiple of half the period of an AC mains voltage. By increasing the modulation period compared to the prior art and corresponding to an integer multiple of half the period of the AC mains voltage, the temporary computational effort required to carry out the modulation of at least one control parameter can be advantageously reduced. This makes it conceivable for many applications that an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC chip) can be replaced by simpler and more cost-effective circuits. The cost savings, in turn, can advantageously provide users with particularly inexpensive induction energy transmission systems with the aforementioned advantageous properties in terms of safety and / or convenience.The period of the AC mains voltage corresponds to the inverse of the mains frequency of the power grid, which supplies the induction energy transmission system with electrical energy in the operating state. In Europe, AC mains voltage is typically provided at a mains frequency of 50 Hz, so that half the period of the AC mains voltage in this case is 10 ms. In cases where the induction energy transmission system is supplied with AC mains voltage at a mains frequency that deviates from 50 Hz, the control unit is designed to adapt the duration of the modulation period to the correspondingly changed period of the AC mains voltage and to select it as a corresponding integer multiple of half the changed period.

[0021] Furthermore, it is proposed that the modulation period comprises at least two, in particular mutually different, modulation intervals, each corresponding to an integer multiple of half the period of an AC mains voltage. This advantageously makes it possible to achieve particularly precise modulation of the at least one control parameter. Preferably, the modulation period comprises a plurality of, in particular mutually different, modulation intervals, each corresponding to an integer multiple of half the period of an AC mains voltage. It would be conceivable for the at least two modulation intervals to correspond to different multiples of half the period of the AC mains voltage. For example, a first modulation interval could correspond to twice the period of the AC mains voltage and a further modulation interval could correspond to four times the period of the AC mains voltage.Preferably, all modulation intervals within a modulation period each correspond to the same multiple, particularly preferably twice, of half the period duration of the AC mains voltage. The modulation intervals can differ from one another, for example, with regard to an amount and / or a sign of a variation of the at least one control parameter. For example, the control unit could vary the at least one control parameter by a specific first amount in the first modulation interval and, in a further modulation interval, vary the at least one control parameter by a further amount, which is, for example, greater or smaller than the first amount and / or has a sign opposite to the first amount.

[0022] It is further proposed that the control unit modulates at least one control parameter of the control parameter set within the modulation period using at least one predefined modulation profile. This advantageously allows interference to be reduced in a particularly targeted manner. Furthermore, the computational effort for the control unit can be advantageously reduced. The predefined modulation profile can be understood as a basic temporal progression of the modulation within a modulation period, which progression is stored in particular in the memory unit of the control unit. The predefined modulation profile could, for example, define a frequency value range of the switching frequency and / or a duty cycle range of the duty cycle, in which the control unit modulates the switching frequency and / or the duty cycle within the modulation period.For example, the predefined modulation profile could comprise a maximum and / or minimum switching frequency and / or a maximum and / or minimum duty cycle, which cannot or should not be exceeded or undercut by the control unit. Alternatively or additionally, the modulation profile could, for example, include a maximum and / or minimum percentage variation of an output switching frequency and / or an output duty cycle. It is also conceivable that the modulation profile comprises, in particular experimentally determined, concrete switching frequency values, in particular concrete switching frequency values ​​of individual, in particular all, modulation intervals, of the modulation period and / or, in particular experimentally determined, concrete duty cycles, in particular concrete duty cycles of individual, in particular all, modulation intervals, of the modulation period.Preferably, a plurality of different predefined modulation profiles are stored in the memory unit of the control unit, which can be automatically retrieved by the control unit, in particular based on a user's selection of a specific operating mode and / or a target power provided via at least one supply induction element of the supply unit for operating the installation unit. Alternatively or additionally, it would also be conceivable for the installation unit, in the operating state, to wirelessly transmit at least one modulation profile, which is specifically designed for the installation unit, to the control unit via a communication unit.The fact that the control unit “modulates the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set using at least one predefined modulation profile” should be understood to mean that the control unit at least takes the predefined modulation profile into account for the modulation of the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set.The predefined modulation profile can be provided as a template for the modulation of the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set to be performed by the control unit, wherein the control unit can modify the modulation of the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set based on the predefined modulation profile and, in particular, adapt it to an individual operating situation, for example to a specific type of installation unit and / or a specific operating mode and / or to a number of supply induction elements to be operated simultaneously and / or to a target power selected by a user or the like. It is conceivable that the control unit is provided to vary the modulation profile at least based on a parameter relating to the installation unit.Such a configuration advantageously allows the modulation technology to be particularly well adapted to an individual operating situation, in particular to the individual operation of different installation units. It is conceivable for the control unit to have at least one sensor unit for detecting the parameter relating to the installation unit. The parameter relating to the installation unit could, for example, comprise a temperature of the installation unit and / or of a region of the installation plate on which the installation unit is installed in the operating state, and / or an operating time of the installation unit or the like. The parameter relating to the installation unit is preferably an electrical parameter of the installation unit and / or an influence of the installation unit on at least one electrical parameter of the supply unit.The parameter relating to the installation unit could, for example, be an electrical parameter of the receiving induction element, in particular an inductance and / or an electrical resistance and / or an impedance and / or a capacitance and / or electrical voltage and / or current and / or an electrical power and / or a resonant frequency of the receiving induction element and / or at least one component connected to the receiving induction element. Preferably, the electrical parameter of the installation unit comprises at least one electrical power of the installation unit, in particular a minimum power and / or a maximum power, preferably a target power currently set by a user. Furthermore, the parameter can comprise an influence of the installation unit on an impedance of at least one supply induction element of the supply unit.This advantageously allows a desired target power of the installation unit to be set particularly efficiently and precisely. Due to the modulation of the at least one control parameter, the impedance of the at least one supply induction element of the supply unit changes and can, within the modulation period, exhibit a surplus in certain sections and a deficit in certain sections compared to a desired impedance, which corresponds to the set target power. Preferably, the control unit varies the modulation profile such that the impedance of the supply induction element is constant on average over the modulation period. Furthermore, it is proposed that the control unit modulates at least one control parameter of the control parameter set within a further modulation period using at least one further modulation profile, which is an inverse of the predefined modulation profile.Such a configuration can advantageously improve energy efficiency. In particular, switching losses of inverter switching elements of the inverter can be reduced if they are arranged in a dual half-bridge configuration and the control unit modulates a duty cycle as a control parameter of the control parameter set using duty cycle modulation based on the predefined modulation profile and, within the further modulation period, modulates the duty cycle based on the further modulation profile, which is an inverse of the predefined modulation profile, since inverter switching elements in a dual half-bridge configuration deliver maximum power at a duty cycle of 50%.

[0023] The modulation profile could, for example, be rectangular or sawtooth-shaped and have discontinuities with larger jumps in the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set. However, in an advantageous embodiment, it is proposed that the modulation profile be described by a continuous mathematical function. This can advantageously reduce, preferably minimize, the occurrence of flicker.Since a change in the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set in electrical components is discrete and therefore cannot take place in infinitesimally small steps, as would be required according to a strict mathematical definition for continuity, the modulation profile in this context can only be considered continuous within the scope of a resolution of the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set, i.e. a minimum step of change between two immediately consecutive steps of the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set.Preferably, the minimum step of the control parameter between two immediately consecutive control parameter values ​​of the modulation profile describable by a continuous mathematical function is, in the case of a control parameter embodied as a switching frequency, at least 1 Hz, advantageously at least 2 Hz, particularly advantageously at least 4 Hz, and a maximum of 8 Hz, and in the case of a control parameter embodied as a duty cycle, at least 1%, advantageously at least 2%, particularly advantageously at least 3%, and a maximum of 5%. In particular, the continuous mathematical function contains all discrete points of the modulation profile as function values, so that the modulation profile can be described by the continuous mathematical function.

[0024] Furthermore, it is proposed that the modulation profile have a linear progression at least in sections within the modulation period. A modulation profile that is linear at least in sections advantageously allows interference during operation of the induction energy transmission system, such as acoustic noise or the like, to be particularly reliably reduced, preferably minimized. An "at least in section linear progression" is understood here to mean that the modulation profile has at least one section from a plurality of at least three consecutive modulation intervals, in which the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set is changed by the control unit by an equal amount in each case.For example, the modulation period could have a section consisting of at least three consecutive modulation intervals, in each of which the control unit raises or lowers the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set by a first amount. The modulation profile can have several sections, each of which has a linear profile, wherein the linear sections could have different gradients from one another.For example, the control unit could raise or lower the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set in a first linear section of the modulation profile, consisting of at least three consecutive modulation intervals, by a first amount in each of the modulation intervals and raise or lower it in a subsequent second linear section of the modulation profile consisting of at least three further consecutive modulation intervals by a second amount different from the first amount.

[0025] In a further advantageous embodiment, it is proposed that the modulation profile has an at least partially exponential curve within the modulation period. An at least partially exponential modulation profile can advantageously reduce, preferably minimize, disruptive influences during operation of the induction energy transmission system, such as acoustic noise or the like, particularly efficiently. An "at least partially exponential curve" is to be understood here as meaning that the modulation profile has a plurality of at least three consecutive modulation intervals, in each of which the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set is changed by the control unit by different amounts, the curves of which can be described by an exponential function.For example, the modulation period could have a section consisting of at least three consecutive modulation intervals in which the control unit raises or lowers the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set by a first amount in the first of the consecutive modulation intervals, by a second amount corresponding to twice the first amount in the second of the consecutive modulation intervals, and by a third amount corresponding to four times the first amount in the third of the consecutive modulation intervals.

[0026] It is also proposed that the modulation profile be mirror-symmetrical at least in sections within the modulation period. This can advantageously further reduce the occurrence of interference effects, in particular flicker. In addition, a desired target power for supplying the installation unit can advantageously be set particularly precisely. The modulation profile, which is mirror-symmetrical at least in sections, could, for example, have a first section in which the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set has a curve, for example a linear or exponential one, which can be described by a first mathematical function, and a second section immediately following the first section, which can be described by a second mathematical function which can be converted into the first mathematical function by reflection about an axis of symmetry.

[0027] Furthermore, it is proposed that the induction energy transmission system comprise a cooking surface comprising the control unit and the supply unit. Such a configuration makes it possible to provide an induction energy transmission system designed as an induction cooking system with the aforementioned advantageous properties, which, in addition to an inductive energy supply to installation units designed as small household appliances via the supply unit, also enables conventional inductive heating of cooking utensils. In an alternative advantageous configuration, it is proposed that the induction energy transmission system comprise a small appliance supply unit comprising the control unit and the supply unit.Such a design makes it possible to provide an induction energy transmission system with the aforementioned advantageous properties as well as with a particularly high degree of flexibility and functionality. In this design, the installation plate is preferably designed as a kitchen worktop. This can advantageously increase the fascination with inductive energy transmission if the installation plate is designed as a kitchen worktop, since some components of the induction energy transmission system, in particular the small appliance supply unit, remain completely invisible to the user under the kitchen worktop, thus creating the impression that the installation unit is operating without any power source.

[0028] The invention further relates to a method for operating an induction energy transmission system, in particular according to one of the preceding claims, with a mounting plate, with a supply unit arranged below the mounting plate, which has at least one supply induction element for the inductive provision of energy, and with at least one mounting unit for mounting on the mounting plate, wherein the mounting unit has at least one receiving induction element for receiving the inductively provided energy.

[0029] It is proposed that at least one control parameter of a control parameter set of the supply unit be modulated within a modulation period using at least one modulation technique. Such a configuration advantageously allows the induction energy transmission system to be operated particularly efficiently. Furthermore, the induction energy transmission system can advantageously be operated particularly safely and / or conveniently, in particular with low noise and in compliance with EMC and flicker standards.

[0030] The induction energy transmission system should not be limited to the above-described

[0031] The application and embodiment may be limited. In particular, the induction energy transmission system may have a number of individual elements, components, and units that differs from the number stated herein to fulfill a functionality described herein.

[0032] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate two exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into useful further combinations.

[0033] They show:

[0034] Fig. 1 An induction energy transmission system with a mounting plate, a supply unit, a control unit and two mounting units mounted on the mounting plate in a schematic representation,

[0035] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a time course of a control parameter of a control parameter set, by means of which the control unit controls the supply unit in an operating state,

[0036] Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a modulation period within which the control unit, in a first configuration, modulates at least one control parameter of the control parameter set by means of at least one modulation technique,

[0037] Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a modulation profile by means of which the control unit in the first configuration modulates the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set within the modulation period,

[0038] Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first further modulation profile, based on which the control unit in the first configuration modulates the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set in a first further modulation period,

[0039] Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a second further modulation profile, based on which the control unit in the first configuration modulates the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set in a second further modulation period,

[0040] Fig. 7 shows two schematic diagrams illustrating a third further modulation profile, based on which the control unit in the first configuration modulates the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set in a third further modulation period,

[0041] Fig. 8 shows two schematic diagrams illustrating a fourth further modulation profile, based on which the control unit in the first configuration modulates the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set in a fourth further modulation period,

[0042] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating modulation periods within which the control unit, in a second configuration, modulates at least one control parameter of the control parameter set by means of at least one modulation technique based on at least one predefined modulation profile,

[0043] Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating further modulation periods within which the control unit in the second configuration modulates at least one control parameter of the control parameter set by means of at least one modulation technique based on at least one predefined modulation profile,

[0044] Fig. 11 two schematic diagrams illustrating one of the further modulation profiles, based on which the control unit in the first configuration modulates the at least one control parameter of the control parameter set in one of the further modulation periods,

[0045] Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating a further modulation period within which the control unit in the second configuration modulates the at least one control parameter of the control parameter using at least one further modulation profile, which is an inverse of the further modulation profile,

[0046] Fig. 13 is a schematic process flow diagram of a method for operating the induction energy transmission system, and Fig. 14 is a schematic representation of a further embodiment of an induction energy transmission system with a mounting plate, a supply unit, a control unit, and two mounting units mounted on the mounting plate.

[0047] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of an induction energy transmission system 10a. The induction energy transmission system 10a has a mounting plate 12a and a supply unit 14a. The supply unit 14a is arranged below the mounting plate 12a and has at least one supply induction element 16a for the inductive provision of energy. In the present case, the supply unit 14a comprises a total of four supply induction elements 16a, which are arranged below the mounting plate 12a. The induction energy transmission system 10a has a control unit 18a, which, in an operating state, controls the supply unit 14a and supplies it with energy. The control unit 18a comprises an inverter (not shown) for controlling and supplying energy to the supply unit 14a.In the operating state, the control unit 18a supplies the supply unit 14a with electrical energy in the form of an alternating supply current 66a (see Figure 3), the frequency of which corresponds to a switching frequency 168a (see Figure 3) with which the control unit 18a operates the inverter.

[0048] The induction energy transmission system 10a is embodied as an induction cooking system and includes a cooktop 46a. The cooktop 46a is embodied as an induction cooktop. In this case, the installation plate 12a is embodied as a cooktop plate 154a. The cooktop plate 154a is part of the cooktop 46a. In this case, the cooktop 46a includes the control unit 18a and the supply unit 14a.

[0049] The induction energy transmission system 10a comprises at least one installation unit 20a for installation on the installation plate 12a. The installation unit 20a has at least one receiving induction element 24a. The receiving induction element 24a is provided for receiving inductively provided energy. In the present case, the receiving induction element 24a is provided for receiving the energy inductively provided by the supply induction element 16a. In the present case, the induction energy transmission system 10a comprises the installation unit 20a and a further installation unit 22a. The installation unit 20a is designed as a small household appliance, specifically as a food processor 52a, and is intended, among other things, for mixing and / or stirring food. The further installation unit 22a is designed as another small household appliance, specifically as a kettle 54a.

[0050] The induction energy transmission system 10a has a communication unit 156a for wireless communication between the control unit 18a and the installation unit 20a and / or the additional installation unit 22a. The communication unit 156a has a communication element 158a, which is connected to the control unit 18a, and two additional communication elements 160a, 162a, which are arranged in the installation unit 20a and in the additional installation unit 22a, respectively. In the present case, the communication unit 156a is designed as an NFC communication unit and is provided for wireless communication via NFC between the control unit 18a and the installation unit 20a and / or the additional installation unit 22a.

[0051] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram illustrating, by way of example, a temporal progression of a control parameter 26a of a control parameter set of the supply unit 14a. In the operating state, the control unit 18a controls the supply unit 14a based on the control parameter set. The control parameter set here comprises at least two control parameters 26a, 26a'. The control parameter set includes a switching frequency 168a of the supply unit 14a as the control parameter 26a. The control parameter set also includes a duty cycle 172a (see Figure 9) of the supply unit 14a as the control parameter 26a' (see Figure 9).

[0052] A time in milliseconds is plotted on an abscissa 56a of the diagram in Figure 2. The switching frequency 168a of the supply unit 14a in kilohertz is plotted on an ordinate 58a of the diagram. A curve shows a temporal progression of an alternating mains voltage 32a, which is rectified by a rectifier (not shown) of the control unit 18a in such a way that an instantaneous value of the alternating mains voltage 32a changes within half a period 30a, but the alternating mains voltage 32a does not change its electrical polarity within a period 60a consisting of two half periods 30a. In this case, the alternating mains voltage 32a has a frequency of 50 Hz, so that the period 60a lasts 20 milliseconds and half the period 30a lasts 10 milliseconds.In the operating state, the control unit 18a modulates at least one control parameter 26a, 26a' of the supply unit 14a within a modulation period 28a (see Figure 3) using at least one modulation technique. In a first configuration, the control unit 18a modulates the switching frequency 168a of the supply unit 14a using frequency modulation.

[0053] Figure 3 shows a diagram schematically illustrating the modulation period 28a, within which the control unit 18a, in the first configuration, modulates the switching frequency 168a by means of at least one frequency modulation. A time in milliseconds is plotted on an abscissa 62a of the diagram. The switching frequency 168a in kilohertz and the supply alternating current 66a in amperes are plotted on an ordinate 64a. The modulation period 28a corresponds to an integer multiple, in this case eleven times, of half the period duration 30a of the mains alternating voltage 32a. Averaged over the modulation period 28a, the switching frequency 168a corresponds to an average switching frequency 68a, which corresponds to one of the average power inductively provided by the supply induction element 16a.

[0054] Figure 4 shows a diagram illustrating a predefined modulation profile 38a, based on which the control unit 18a modulates the at least one control parameter 26a of the control parameter set, in this case the switching frequency 168a, within the modulation period 28a. A time in milliseconds is plotted on an abscissa 70a of the diagram. The switching frequency 168a is plotted in kilohertz on an ordinate 170a of the diagram.

[0055] The modulation period 28a comprises a plurality of consecutive modulation intervals 34a, 36a, each corresponding to an integer multiple of half the period 30a of the AC mains voltage 32a. Figure 4 shows two modulation intervals 34a, 36a, each of which differs from the other. Within the modulation interval 34a, the control unit 18a increases the switching frequency 168a. Within the modulation interval 36a, the control unit 18a decreases the switching frequency 168a.

[0056] The control unit 18a modulates in the operating state in the first configuration the

[0057] Switching frequency 168a based on the predefined modulation profile 38a. The modulation profile 38a can be described by a continuous mathematical function. The modulation profile 38a has a linear profile, at least in sections, within the modulation period 28a. Within a first section 72a of the modulation period 28a, the modulation profile 38a has a linear and continuously increasing profile with an increasing switching frequency 168a. Within a second section 74a, the modulation profile 38a has a linear and continuously decreasing profile with a decreasing switching frequency 168a. The modulation profile 38a is mirror-symmetrical, at least in sections. In the present case, the modulation profile 38a is mirror-symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry 76a, so that the course of the modulation profile 38a in the second section 74a results from mirroring the course in the first section 72a at the axis of symmetry 76a.

[0058] After the modulation period 28a has expired, it is repeated again and the control unit 12a modulates the switching frequency 168a again using the modulation profile 38a.

[0059] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram illustrating a first further modulation profile 78a, based on which the control unit 18a modulates the at least one control parameter 26a of the control parameter set—in the present first configuration, the switching frequency 168a—within a first further modulation period 80a, following the modulation period 28a, using at least one modulation technique, in this case a different frequency modulation. The first further modulation period 80a corresponds to an integer multiple of half the period duration 30a of the AC mains voltage 32a. A time in milliseconds is plotted on an abscissa 94a of the diagram. The switching frequency 168a in kilohertz is plotted on an ordinate 96a of the diagram.

[0060] The first further modulation profile 78a can be described by a continuous mathematical function. The first further modulation profile 78a has a linear profile, at least in sections, within the first further modulation period 80a. Within a first sub-section 98a of a first section 100a of the first further modulation period 80a, the first further modulation profile 78a has a linear and continuously increasing profile with increasing switching frequency 168a. Within a second sub-section 102a of the first section 100a of the first further modulation period 80a, the first further modulation profile 78a has a linear and continuously increasing profile with a flatter increase in the switching frequency 168a compared to the first sub-section 98a.Within a third subsection 104a of the first section 100a of the first further modulation period 80a, the first further modulation profile 78a has a linear and substantially continuous course with a flatter increase in the switching frequency 168a compared to the second subsection 102a.

[0061] The first further modulation profile 78a is mirror-symmetrical, at least in sections. In the present case, the first further modulation profile 78a is mirror-symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry 106a, so that a profile of the first further modulation profile 78a in a second section 108a results from mirroring the profile in the first section 100a about the axis of symmetry 106a.

[0062] Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram illustrating a second further modulation profile 82a, based on which the control unit 18a modulates the at least one control parameter 26a of the control parameter set, in the present first configuration the switching frequency 168a, within a second further modulation period 84a, following the first further modulation period 78a, using at least one modulation technique, in this case a further different frequency modulation. The second further modulation period 84a corresponds to an integer multiple of half the period duration 30a of the AC mains voltage 32a. A time in milliseconds is plotted on an abscissa 110a of the diagram. The switching frequency 168a in kilohertz is plotted on an ordinate 112a of the diagram.

[0063] The second further modulation profile 82a can be described by a continuous mathematical function. The second further modulation profile 82a has an exponential curve at least in sections within the second further modulation period 84a. Within a first section 114a of the second further modulation period 84a, the second further modulation profile 82a has a continuous curve with an exponentially increasing switching frequency 168a. Within a second section 116a of the second further modulation period 84a, the second further modulation profile 82a has a continuous curve with an exponentially decreasing switching frequency 168a. The second further modulation profile 82a is at least partially mirror-symmetrical.In the present case, the second further modulation profile 82a is mirror-symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry 118a, so that a course of the second further modulation profile 82a in the second section 116a results from mirroring the course in the first section 114a at the axis of symmetry 118a.

[0064] Figure 7 shows two schematic diagrams illustrating a third further modulation profile 86a, based on which the control unit 18a modulates the at least one control parameter 26a of the control parameter set, in the present first configuration the switching frequency 168a, within a third further modulation period 88a, following the second further modulation period 84a, using at least one modulation technique, in this case a further different frequency modulation. The third further modulation period 88a corresponds to an integer multiple of half the period duration 30a of the AC mains voltage 32a. A time in milliseconds is plotted on an abscissa 120a of an upper diagram. A power 124a in watts is plotted on an ordinate 122a of the upper diagram. The time in milliseconds is plotted on an abscissa 126a of a lower diagram.The switching frequency 168a in kilohertz is plotted on an ordinate 128a of the lower diagram.

[0065] The control unit 18a is provided to vary the third further modulation profile 86a at least based on a parameter 40a relating to the installation unit 20a or the further installation unit 22a. In this case, the parameter 40a is a target power set by a user, which is to be provided by the supply induction element 16a to supply the installation unit 20a. A general course of the third further modulation profile 86a is continuous, partially linear, and an inverse of the first further modulation profile 78a (see Fig. 5). Based on the parameter 40a, the control unit 18a varies a frequency value range 130a of the third further modulation profile 86a in the operating state such that the course of the power 124a shown in the upper diagram results.Due to the frequency modulation of the switching frequency 168a, the power 124a changes and has a surplus 132a in certain sections and a deficit 134a in certain sections, so that the power 124a, viewed over the third further modulation period 88a, corresponds on average to the target power set by the user. Figure 8 shows two schematic diagrams illustrating a fourth further modulation profile 90a, based on which the control unit 18a modulates the at least one control parameter 26a of the control parameter set, in the present first configuration the switching frequency 168a, within a fourth further modulation period 92a, following the third further modulation period 88a, using at least one modulation technique, in this case a further different frequency modulation. The fourth further modulation period 92a corresponds to an integer multiple of half the period duration 30a of the AC mains voltage 32a.A time in milliseconds is plotted on an abscissa 140a of a lower diagram. The switching frequency 168a in kilohertz is plotted on an ordinate 142a of the lower diagram. The time in milliseconds is plotted on an abscissa 136a of an upper diagram. An impedance 42a of the supply inductor 16a is plotted on an ordinate 138a of the upper diagram.

[0066] The fourth further modulation profile 90a differs from the third further modulation profile 86a essentially with regard to a parameter 50a relating to the installation unit 20a, which the control unit 18a uses as a basis for varying the fourth further modulation profile 90a. The parameter 50a includes an influence of the installation unit 20a on the impedance 42a of the supply induction element 16a. Based on the parameter 50a, the control unit 18a varies the fourth further modulation profile 90a such that the curve of the impedance 42a shown in the upper diagram results. Due to the frequency modulation of the switching frequency 168a, the impedance 42a changes and has a surplus 144a in some sections and a deficit 146a in some sections. The control unit 18a varies the fourth further modulation profile 90a such that the impedance 42a is constant on average over the fourth further modulation period 92a.

[0067] In the operating state, the control unit 18a additionally modulates the switching frequency 168a within an intermediate modulation period 44a, which corresponds to a maximum of half the period 30a of the AC mains voltage 32a, by means of at least one further frequency modulation. In the operating state, in addition to the frequency modulation described above using the fourth further modulation profile 90a, the control unit 18a briefly varies the switching frequency 168a within the intermediate modulation period 44a, specifically within half the period 30a of the

[0068] AC mains voltage 32a, based on a diagram shown in Figure 8

[0069] Intermediate modulation profile 148a to prevent the occurrence of flicker.

[0070] Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram illustrating modulation periods 28a', 80a', 84a' within which the control unit 18a, in a second configuration, modulates at least one control parameter 26a' of the control parameter set of the supply unit 14a using at least one modulation technique based on at least one predefined modulation profile 38a', 78a', 82a'. In the second configuration, the control unit 18a modulates the duty cycle 172a as the control parameter 26a' of the supply unit 14a using at least one duty cycle modulation. A time in milliseconds is plotted on an abscissa 176a of the diagram. The duty cycle 172a of the supply unit 14a is plotted in percent on an ordinate 178a of the diagram.

[0071] Within a modulation period 28a', the control unit 18a modulates the duty cycle 172a by means of duty cycle modulation based on a predefined modulation profile 38a'. The modulation period 28a' corresponds to an integer multiple, in this case eleven times, of half the period duration 30a of the AC mains voltage 32a (see Figure 2). Averaged over the modulation period 28a', the duty cycle 172a' corresponds to an average duty cycle, which corresponds to one of the average powers inductively provided by the supply induction element 16a.

[0072] The modulation period 28a' comprises a plurality of consecutive modulation intervals 34a', 36a', each corresponding to an integer multiple of half the period 30a of the AC mains voltage 32a (see Figure 2). Figure 9 shows two modulation intervals 34a', 36a', which differ from one another, by way of example. Within the modulation interval 34a', the control unit 18a increases the duty cycle 172a. Within the modulation interval 36a', the control unit 18a decreases the duty cycle 172a. The modulation profile 38a' can be described by a continuous mathematical function. The modulation profile 38a' has a linear profile, at least in sections, within the modulation period 28a'. Within a first section 72a' of the modulation period 28a', the modulation profile 38a' has a linear and continuously increasing course with an increasing duty cycle 172a.Within a second section 74a', the modulation profile 38a' has a linear and continuously decreasing profile with a decreasing duty cycle 172a. The modulation profile 38a' is mirror-symmetrical at least in some sections. In the present case, the modulation profile 38a' is mirror-symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry 76a', so that the profile of the modulation profile 38a' in the second section 74a' results from the mirroring of the profile in the first section 72a' about the axis of symmetry 76a'.

[0073] The diagram in Figure 9 shows a first further modulation profile 78a', based on which the control unit 18a modulates the at least one control parameter 26a' of the control parameter set, in the present second configuration the duty cycle 172a, within a first further modulation period 80a', using at least one modulation technique, in this case a different duty cycle modulation. The first further modulation period 80a' could, for example, follow the modulation period 28a' in time. The first further modulation profile 78a' can be described by a continuous mathematical function. The first further modulation profile 78a' has a linear profile, at least in sections, within the first further modulation period 80a'.Within a first subsection 98a' of a first section 100a' of the first further modulation period 80a', the first further modulation profile 78a' has a linear and continuously increasing profile with increasing duty cycle 172a. Within a second subsection 102a' of the first section 100a' of the first further modulation period 80a', the first further modulation profile 78a' has a linear and continuously increasing profile with a flatter increase in the duty cycle 172a compared to the first subsection 98a'. Within a third subsection 104a' of the first section 100a' of the first further modulation period 80a', the first further modulation profile 78a' has a linear and essentially continuous profile with a flatter increase in the duty cycle 172a compared to the second subsection 102a'.

[0074] The first further modulation profile 78a' is mirror-symmetrical, at least in sections. In the present case, the first further modulation profile 78a' is mirror-symmetrical with respect to the axis of symmetry 76a', so that a profile of the first further modulation profile 78a' in a second section 108a' results from mirroring the profile in the first section 100a' about the axis of symmetry 76a.

[0075] The diagram in Figure 9 also shows a second, further modulation profile 82a', based on which the control unit 18a modulates the at least one control parameter 26a' of the control parameter set, in the present second configuration the duty cycle 172a, within a second, further modulation period 84a', using at least one modulation technique, in this case a further, different duty cycle modulation. The second, further modulation period 84a' corresponds to an integer multiple of half the period duration 30a of the AC mains voltage 32a (see Figure 2). The second, further modulation period 84a' could, for example, follow in time the first, further modulation period 80a'.

[0076] The second further modulation profile 82a' can be described by a continuous mathematical function. The second further modulation profile 82a' has an exponential curve, at least in sections, within the second further modulation period 84a'. Within a first section 114a' of the second further modulation period 84a', the second further modulation profile 82a' has a continuous curve with an exponentially increasing duty cycle 172a. Within a second section 116a' of the second further modulation period 84a', the second further modulation profile 82a' has a continuous curve with an exponentially decreasing duty cycle 172a.

[0077] The second further modulation profile 82a' is mirror-symmetrical, at least in sections. In the present case, the second further modulation profile 82a' is mirror-symmetrical with respect to the axis of symmetry 76a', so that a profile of the second further modulation profile 82a' in the second section 116a' results from mirroring the profile in the first section 114a' about the axis of symmetry 76a'.

[0078] Figure 10 shows a schematic diagram illustrating further modulation periods 88a', 92a', 182a', within which the control unit 18a, in the second configuration, modulates at least one control parameter 26a' of the control parameter set of the supply unit 14a using at least one modulation technique based on at least one further modulation profile 86a', 90a', 180a', which is an inverse of the predefined modulation profile 38a', 78a'; 82a'. A time in milliseconds is plotted on an abscissa 184a of the diagram. The duty cycle 172a of the supply unit 14a is plotted in percent on an ordinate 186a of the diagram.

[0079] Within a third further modulation period 88a', the control unit 18a modulates the duty cycle 172a by means of duty cycle modulation based on a third further modulation profile 86a'. The third further modulation profile 86a' is an inverse of the first further modulation profile 78a' (see Figure 9). The third further modulation period 84a' could, for example, follow the first further modulation period 80a' (see Figure 9).

[0080] Within a fourth further modulation period 92a', the control unit 18a modulates the duty cycle 172a by means of duty cycle modulation based on a fourth further modulation profile 92a'. The fourth further modulation profile 92a' is an inverse of the modulation profile 38a' (see Figure 9). The fourth further modulation period 92a' could, for example, follow the modulation period 28a' (see Figure 9).

[0081] Within a fifth further modulation period 182a', the control unit 18a modulates the duty cycle 172a by means of duty cycle modulation based on a fifth further modulation profile 180a'. The fifth further modulation profile 180a' is an inverse of the second further modulation profile 82a' (see Figure 9). The fifth further modulation period 182a' could, for example, follow the second further modulation period 84a' (see Figure 9).

[0082] Figure 11 shows two schematic diagrams illustrating the third further modulation profile 86a', based on which the control unit 18a modulates the at least one control parameter 26a of the control parameter set, in the present second configuration the duty cycle 172a, within the third further modulation period 88a' using at least one modulation technique, in this case a further different duty cycle modulation. The third further modulation period 88a' corresponds to an integer multiple of half the period duration 30a of the AC mains voltage 32a (cf. Figure 2). A time in milliseconds is plotted on an abscissa 188a of an upper diagram. A power 124a' in watts is plotted on an ordinate 190a of the upper diagram. The time in milliseconds is plotted on an abscissa 192a of a lower diagram. On an ordinate 194a of the lower diagram, the duty cycle 172a is plotted in percent.

[0083] The control unit 18a is provided to vary the third further modulation profile 86a' at least based on a parameter 40a' relating to the installation unit 20a or the further installation unit 22a. In the present case, the parameter 40a' is a target power set by a user, which is to be provided by the supply induction element 16a to supply the installation unit 20a. A general course of the third further modulation profile 86a' is continuous and has a linear course at least in sections. Based on the parameter 40a', the control unit 18a varies a duty cycle range 196a of the third further modulation profile 86a' in the operating state such that the course of the power 124a' shown in the upper diagram results.Due to the duty cycle modulation of the duty cycle 172a, the power 124a' changes and has a surplus 132a' and a deficit 134a' in sections, so that the power 124a', viewed over the third further modulation period 88a', corresponds on average to the target power set by the user.

[0084] Figure 12 shows a schematic diagram illustrating a temporal sequence of the modulation period 28a', within which the control unit 18a in the second configuration modulates the control parameter 26a', embodied as duty cycle 172a, using the modulation profile 38a', and the fourth further modulation period 92a', within which the control unit 18a in the second configuration modulates the control parameter 26a', embodied as duty cycle 172a, using the fourth further modulation profile 90a'. A time in milliseconds is plotted on an abscissa 198a of the diagram. The duty cycle 172a is plotted in percent on an ordinate 200a of the diagram. As already described, the fourth further modulation profile 92a' is an inverse of the modulation profile 38a.If the fourth further modulation period 92a', as shown in Figure 12, immediately follows the modulation period 28a', switching losses of inverter switching elements (not shown) of the inverter of the control unit 18a can be reduced. The inverter switching elements are arranged in a dual half-bridge configuration, so that a duty cycle 172a of 50% is a maximum power duty cycle 202a at which an electrical power inductively provided by one of the supply induction elements 16a of the supply unit 14a (see Figure 1) is maximum. A value range of the modulation profile 38a' includes values ​​for the duty cycle 172a that are greater than or equal to the maximum power duty cycle 202a. A value range of the fourth further modulation profile 90a' includes values ​​for the duty cycle 172a that are less than or equal to the maximum power duty cycle 202a.An average electrical power provided by one of the supply induction elements 16a of the supply unit 14a during the modulation period 28a' corresponds to an average electrical power provided during the fourth further modulation period 92a'.

[0085] Figure 13 shows a schematic process flow diagram of a method for operating the induction energy transmission system 10a. In the method, at least one control parameter 26a, 26a' for controlling the supply unit 14a is modulated using at least one modulation technique within at least one of the modulation periods 28a, 28a', 80a, 80a', 84a, 84a', 88a, 88a', 92a, 92a', 182a', which in particular corresponds to an integer multiple of half the period 30a of an AC mains voltage 32a. The method comprises at least two method steps 150a, 152a. In a first method step 150a of the method, a modulation profile suitable for a current operating situation is selected from the predefined modulation profiles 38a, 38a', 78a, 78a', 82a, 82a', 86a, 86a', 90a, 90a', 180a'.In a second method step 152a of the method, within at least one of the modulation periods 28a, 28a', 80a, 80a', 84a, 84a', 88a, 88a', 92a, 92a', 182a', the at least one control parameter 26a, 26a', in particular the switching frequency 168a and / or the duty cycle 172a, of the control parameter set of the supply unit 14a is modulated using at least one of the predefined modulation profiles 38a, 38a', 78a, 78a', 82a, 82a', 86a, 86a', 90a, 90a', 180a'.

[0086] Figure 14 shows a further embodiment of the invention. The following descriptions are essentially limited to the differences between the embodiments, whereby with regard to identical components, features and functions, reference can be made to the description of the embodiment in Figures 1 to 13. To distinguish the embodiments, the letter a in the reference numerals of the embodiment in Figures 1 to 13 has been replaced by the letter b in the reference numerals of the embodiment in Figure 14. With regard to components with the same designation, in particular with regard to components with the same reference numerals, reference can also be made to the drawings and / or the description of the embodiment in Figures 1 to 13.

[0087] Figure 14 shows a schematic representation of a further embodiment of an induction energy transmission system 10b. The induction energy transmission system 10b has a mounting plate 12b and a supply unit 14b. The supply unit 14b is arranged below the mounting plate 12b. The supply unit 14b has at least one supply induction element 16b for the inductive provision of energy. In the present case, the supply unit 14b comprises a total of two supply induction elements 16b. The induction energy transmission system 10b has a control unit 18b, which, in an operating state, controls the supply unit 14b and supplies it with energy. The control unit 18b comprises an inverter (not shown) for controlling and supplying energy to the supply unit 14b.In the operating state, the control unit 18b supplies the supply unit 14b with electrical energy in the form of an alternating supply current (not shown), the frequency of which corresponds to a switching frequency (not shown) with which the control unit 18b operates the inverter.

[0088] In the operating state, the control unit 18b modulates at least one control parameter (not shown) of a control parameter set of the supply unit 14b within a modulation period using at least one modulation technique. Analogous to the previous embodiment, the switching parameter set of the supply unit 14b includes at least the switching frequency and a duty cycle (not shown) of the supply unit 14b.

[0089] The modulation period corresponds to an integer multiple of half the period of an AC mains voltage (not shown here, see Figure 2). Regarding the switching frequency, which the control unit 18b modulates in a first configuration by means of at least one frequency modulation, reference can be made to the above description of Figures 2 to 8 of the previous exemplary embodiment. Regarding the duty cycle, which the control unit 18b modulates in a second configuration by means of at least one duty cycle modulation, reference can be made to the above description of Figures 9 to 12 of the previous exemplary embodiment. Regarding a method for operating the induction energy transmission system 10b, reference can be made to the above description of Figure 13 of the previous exemplary embodiment.

[0090] In contrast to the previous embodiment, the induction energy transmission system 10b is designed as a small household appliance supply system and includes a small appliance supply unit 48b. The small appliance supply unit 48b includes the control unit 18b and the supply unit 14b. A support plate 12b of the induction energy transmission system 10b is designed as a kitchen worktop 164b.

[0091] The induction energy transmission system 10b comprises a mounting unit 20b for mounting on the mounting plate 12b. The mounting unit 20b has a receiving induction element 24b for receiving the energy inductively provided by the supply induction element 16b of the supply unit 14b. In the present case, the mounting unit 20b is designed as a small household appliance, specifically as a food processor 52b. The induction energy transmission system 10b has a further mounting unit 22b. The further mounting unit 22b also comprises a receiving induction element (not shown) for receiving the energy inductively provided by the supply induction element 16b of the supply unit 14b. The further mounting unit 20b is designed as a cooking utensil 166b.The cooking utensil 166b also has a further unit 174b for providing at least one function that goes beyond simply heating food. In the present case, the further unit 174b is designed as a stirring unit and for stirring food. In the operating state of the induction energy transmission system 10b, the further unit 174b is powered by the energy inductively received by the receiving induction element of the cooking utensil 166b.

[0092] The induction energy transmission system 10b has a communication unit 156b for wireless communication between the control unit 18b and the installation unit 20b and / or the further installation unit 22b. The communication unit 156b has a communication element 158b, which is connected to the control unit 18b, as well as two further communication elements 160b, 162b, which are arranged in the installation unit 20b and in the further installation unit 22b, respectively. In the present case, the communication unit 156b is designed as an NFC communication unit and is provided for wireless communication via NFC between the control unit 18b and the installation unit 20b and / or the further installation unit 22b. Reference numerals

[0093] 10 Induction energy transfer system

[0094] 12 mounting plate

[0095] 14 supply unit

[0096] 16 Supply induction element

[0097] 18 Control unit

[0098] 20 installation unit

[0099] 22 additional installation units

[0100] 24 Recording induction element

[0101] 26 control parameters

[0102] 28 modulation period

[0103] 30 half periods

[0104] 32 AC mains voltage

[0105] 34 modulation interval

[0106] 36 modulation interval

[0107] 38 Modulation profile

[0108] 40 parameters

[0109] 42 Impedance

[0110] 44 Intermodulation period

[0111] 46 hob

[0112] 48 small appliance supply unit

[0113] 50 parameters

[0114] 52 food processor

[0115] 54 kettles

[0116] 56 Abscissa

[0117] 58 Ordinates

[0118] 60 period duration

[0119] 62 Abscissa

[0120] 64 Ordinate AC supply current Average switching frequency Abscissa First section Second section Axis of symmetry First further modulation profile First further modulation period Second further modulation profile Second further modulation period Third further modulation profile Third further modulation period Fourth further modulation profile Fourth further modulation period Abscissa

[0121] Ordinate first subsection first section second subsection third subsection

[0122] Axis of symmetry second section

[0123] abscissa

[0124] Ordinate first section second section

[0125] axis of symmetry

[0126] abscissa

[0127] Ordinate Performance Abscissa Ordinate

[0128] Frequency range surplus

[0129] deficit

[0130] abscissa

[0131] ordinate

[0132] abscissa

[0133] ordinate

[0134] excess

[0135] deficit

[0136] Intermediate modulation profile first process step second process step

[0137] Hob

[0138] Communication unit

[0139] Communication element further communication element further communication element

[0140] kitchen worktop

[0141] Cooking utensils

[0142] Switching frequency

[0143] ordinate

[0144] Duty cycle further unit

[0145] abscissa

[0146] Ordinate fifth further modulation profile fifth further modulation period Abscissa

[0147] ordinate

[0148] Abscissa ordinate Abscissa ordinate Duty cycle range Abscissa ordinate Maximum power duty cycle

Claims

Claims Induction energy transmission system (10a; 10b), in particular induction cooking system, with a mounting plate (12a; 12b), with a supply unit (14a; 14b) arranged below the mounting plate (12a; 12b), which has at least one supply induction element (16a; 16b) for the inductive provision of energy, with a control unit (18a; 18b) which, in an operating state, controls the supply unit (14a; 14b) and supplies it with energy, and with at least one mounting unit (20a, 22a; 20b, 22b) for mounting on the mounting plate (12a; 12b), wherein the mounting unit (20a, 22a; 20b, 22b) has at least one receiving induction element (24a; 24b) for receiving the inductively provided energy, characterized in that the control unit (18a; 18b) in the operating state at least one control parameter (26a, 26a') of a control parameter set of the supply unit (14a;14b) within a modulation period (28a, 28a', 80a, 80a', 84a, 84a', 88a, 88a', 92a, 92a', 182a') using at least one modulation technique. Induction energy transmission system (10a; 10b) according to claim 1, characterized in that the control parameter set comprises a switching frequency (168a) of the supply unit (14a; 14b), which the control unit (18a; 18b) modulates within the modulation period (28a, 80a, 84a, 88a, 92a) using at least one frequency modulation. Induction energy transmission system (10a; 10b) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control parameter set comprises a duty cycle (172a) of the supply unit (14a; 14b), which the control unit (18a; 18b) modulates within the modulation period (28a', 80a', 84a', 88a', 92a', 182a') by means of at least one duty cycle modulation. Induction energy transmission system (10a; 10b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the modulation period (28a, 28a', 80a, 80a', 84a, 84a', 88a, 88a', 92a, 92a', 182a') corresponds to an integer multiple of half a period (30a) of an AC mains voltage (32a). Induction energy transmission system (10a; 10b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the modulation period (28a, 28a') comprises at least two, in particular mutually different, modulation intervals (34a, 34a', 36a, 36a'), each corresponding to an integer multiple of half a period (30a) of an AC mains voltage (32a).Induction energy transmission system (10a; 10b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (18a; 18b) modulates at least one control parameter (26a, 26a') of the control parameter set within the modulation period (28a, 28a', 80a, 80a', 84a, 84a') based on at least one predefined modulation profile (38a, 38a', 78a, 78a', 82a, 82a', 90a). Induction energy transmission system (10a; 10b) according to claim 6, characterized in that the control unit (18a; 18b) modulates at least one control parameter (26a, 26a') of the control parameter set within a further modulation period (88a, 88a', 92a', 182a') using at least one further modulation profile (86a, 86a', 90a', 180a'), which is an inverse of the predefined modulation profile (38a', 78a, 78a', 82a').Induction energy transmission system (10a; 10b) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the modulation profile (38a, 38a', 78a, 78a', 82a, 82a', 86a, 86a', 90a, 90a', 180a') can be described by a continuous mathematical function.

9. Induction energy transmission system (10a; 10b) according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the modulation profile (38a, 38a', 78a, 78a', 86a, 86a', 90a, 90a') has an at least partially linear course within the modulation period (28a, 28a', 80a, 80a', 88a, 88a', 92a, 92a').

10. Induction energy transmission system (10a; 10b) according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that the modulation profile (82a, 82a', 180a') has an at least partially exponential course within the modulation period (84a, 84a', 182a').

11. Induction energy transmission system (10a; 10b) according to one of claims 6 to 10, characterized in that the modulation profile (38a, 38a', 78a, 78a', 82a, 82a', 86a, 86a', 90a, 90a', 180a') within the modulation period (28a, 28a', 80a, 80a', 84a, 84a', 88a, 88a', 92a, 92a', 182a') is at least partially mirror-symmetrical.

12. Induction energy transmission system (10a) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a cooking surface (46a) which comprises the control unit (18a) and the supply unit (14a).

13. Induction energy transmission system (10b) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized by a small appliance supply unit (48b) which comprises the control unit (18b) and the supply unit (14b). Method for operating an induction energy transmission system (10a; 10b), in particular according to one of the preceding claims, with a mounting plate (12a; 12b), with a supply unit (14a; 14b) arranged below the mounting plate (12a; 12b), which has at least one supply induction element (16a; 16b) for the inductive provision of Energy, and with at least one installation unit (20a, 22a; 20b, 22b) for installation on the installation plate (12a; 12b), wherein the installation unit (20a, 22a; 20b, 22b) has at least one receiving induction element (24a; 24b) for receiving the inductively provided energy, characterized in that at least one control parameter (26a; 26a') of a Control parameter set of the supply unit (14a; 14b) is modulated within a modulation period (28a, 28a', 80a, 80a', 84a, 84a', 88a, 88a', 92a, 92a', 182a') by means of at least one modulation technique.

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