Adaptive Induction Cooktop Characterization for Overload-Safe Frequency Sweeps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing induction cooktop characterization methods lead to electronic component overloads and inefficient frequency step selection, resulting in prolonged characterization times and reduced precision, especially at varying load conditions.
Innovation Solution
An adaptive characterization process that dynamically adjusts the frequency step and predicts termination based on electrical quantities, ensuring component safety and optimizing the characterization procedure by distributing excitation frequencies more efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fixed frequency steps are used in characterization, then the process is simple to implement, but component overloads occur and precision is reduced at varying load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic frequency step adjustment where the step size between excitation frequencies is adaptively modified based on real-time electrical quantity measurements (current, power factor, power). The controller continuously monitors these parameters and adjusts the frequency step to maintain optimal characterization precision while preventing component overloads, transforming a static fixed-step approach into a dynamic adaptive process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters (frequency step size, excitation frequency sequence) based on measured electrical quantities. By monitoring current, power factor, and power at each excitation frequency, the system dynamically modifies subsequent frequency steps to optimize both precision and safety, rather than using predetermined fixed steps regardless of load conditions.
2Productivity
If traditional characterization methods are used, then the process is straightforward, but characterization time is prolonged due to inefficient frequency step selection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the controller measures electrical quantities (current, power factor, power) at each excitation frequency and uses this information to determine the next frequency step. This closed-loop feedback allows the system to accelerate through regions where the load is stable and slow down only when necessary to capture critical characterization data, significantly reducing overall characterization time compared to uniform fixed-step methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary measurements at each frequency point to assess electrical quantities before committing to the next frequency step. This preliminary action allows the controller to predict optimal subsequent steps, avoiding unnecessary measurements in stable regions and focusing computational resources only where characterization precision is critical, thereby accelerating the overall process.
3Measurement precision
If uniform frequency steps are applied, then the characterization process is consistent, but precision is reduced in critical frequency ranges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically changes the frequency step parameter based on measured electrical quantities. The controller adjusts the step size to be smaller in critical frequency ranges where precision is needed (identified through electrical parameter analysis) and larger in stable regions, transforming a uniform fixed-step approach into an adaptive variable-step process that optimizes precision where required.
Solution Approach 2:
The characterization process transitions from a static uniform frequency sweep to a dynamic adaptive process where the frequency step continuously adjusts based on real-time electrical measurements. This dynamic approach allows the system to concentrate measurement resolution in critical frequency ranges while maintaining overall process efficiency, with the complexity managed through algorithmic adaptation rather than hardware complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The process reduces component overloads, accelerates characterization, and enhances precision, particularly in critical frequency ranges, leading to improved user experience and cooktop responsiveness.
Implementation Method 1
Induction cooking appliances use induction coils to heat items directly. For instance, the induction coils may directly heat pots and pans through magnetic induction. An electric current is passed through the coil underneath the surface, creating a magnetic current throughout the pot or pan above to produce heat.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for adaptive characterization for an inductive cooking appliance may include applying a k-th excitation frequency to a model circuit; analyzing the frequency response of the k-th excitation frequency including determining at least one of a maximum current, maximum power factor, and maximum power of the circuit; determining a frequency limit based on an inverse relationship of the at least one of the maximum current, maximum power factor and maximum power of the circuit; and determining the next excitation frequency based on the frequency limit and a step size in response to the step size being within a threshold.