Adjustable Induction Pan Warming for Variable Pan Depths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional food service systems using steam or hot water for pan heating are inefficient, difficult to control, and require extensive maintenance, whereas existing induction heating systems struggle to accommodate pans of varying depths without pre-determination.
Innovation Solution
An induction heating device with a housing and adjustable mechanisms to maintain the induction power enclosure close to the bottom surface of pans of different depths, ensuring adequate magnetic coupling and temperature monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If steam or hot water heating is used, then heating capability is provided, but energy efficiency is poor and maintenance requirements are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical steam/hot water heating system with an induction heating system that uses electromagnetic fields to directly heat the pan bottoms. This substitution eliminates the need for water supply, steam generation, and drainage infrastructure, thereby improving energy efficiency and reducing maintenance requirements while providing direct heating capability.
2Productivity
If induction coil is placed close to pan bottom for effective heating, then heating efficiency improves, but the system cannot accommodate pans of varying depths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adjustable height mechanism that allows the induction power enclosure to be dynamically repositioned vertically. This enables the induction coil to maintain optimal close proximity to the pan bottom for efficient heating, while simultaneously accommodating pans of different depths by adjusting the enclosure height to match each pan's specific requirements.
3Device complexity
If fixed height induction enclosure is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different pan depths is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a height adjustment mechanism with detent positions that allows the induction power enclosure to be repositioned to different fixed heights. This provides adaptability to various pan depths while maintaining relatively simple construction through the use of discrete adjustment positions rather than continuous adjustment mechanisms.
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
This solution enables efficient and flexible induction heating of pans of varying depths, improving energy efficiency and reducing maintenance needs, while allowing precise temperature control.
Implementation Method 1
the induction coil in an induction unit must be placed within close proximity to the bottom of the heating/warming pans
Implementation Method 2
An induction-based holding/warming/heating unit
Implementation Method 3
one or more temperature sensors and induction inverters and associated induction coils
Data Source
AI summary
A device, system and method for induction heating food service pans having differing depths, while maintaining the pans sufficiently closely adjacent an enclosure containing the induction heating power source.