Container support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Induction heating units mounted beneath tables are inconvenient to use, pose a risk of damaging the table due to heated cooking containers, and lack user-friendly control and information display options.
Innovation Solution
A container support with a heat-resistant plate, manipulation unit, signal-transmitting part, and display unit that operates in conjunction with the induction heating unit, allowing users to control heating intensity and monitor cooking status without direct manipulation of the unit, and uses a magnetic field sensor for accurate placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the induction heating unit is mounted beneath the table, then the aesthetic appearance is improved and the working coil is hidden, but the table is damaged by the heated cooking container
Solution Approach 1:
A heat-resistant plate is introduced as an intermediary component between the cooking container and the table surface. This plate serves as a mediator that protects the table from direct contact with heated containers while maintaining the aesthetic benefit of having the induction unit mounted beneath the table.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat-resistant plate is placed in advance on the table surface to prevent potential damage from heated cooking containers. This proactive protective measure ensures that even if a hot container is placed on the table, the table surface remains protected from thermal damage.
2Ease of operation
If the manipulation unit is provided at the induction heating unit, then the control function is achieved, but it is inconvenient to manipulate the unit
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two separate components: the manipulation unit is separated from the induction heating unit and placed on the table surface, while the induction heating unit remains mounted beneath the table. This segmentation allows the control interface to be accessible and convenient for users while keeping the heating mechanism hidden.
Solution Approach 2:
The manipulation unit acts as an intermediary control interface between the user and the induction heating unit. It receives user inputs and transmits control signals to the heating unit, enabling convenient operation without requiring direct access to the mounted unit.
3Loss of information
If the display unit is provided at the induction heating unit, then the control information is displayed, but it is difficult to check the information
Solution Approach 1:
The display unit is separated from the induction heating unit and positioned on the table surface where it is easily visible and accessible to users. This segmentation ensures that control information can be checked without difficulty while the heating unit remains concealed beneath the table.
Solution Approach 2:
The display unit serves as an intermediary information display device that receives data from the induction heating unit and presents it to users in an easily accessible location. This allows users to monitor control information without needing to access or see the mounted heating unit.
4Use of energy by moving object
If the working coil is provided inside the top plate, then the induction heating function is achieved, but the working coil is visible from the exterior and the aesthetic appearance is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The induction heating unit is relocated from a two-dimensional placement on the table surface to a three-dimensional mounting beneath the table. This dimensional change allows the working coil to remain functional while being hidden from exterior view, improving aesthetic appearance without compromising heating performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The table structure itself acts as an intermediary that conceals the working coil while allowing the induction heating function to operate. The mounting structure beneath the table serves as a mediator between the functional requirement and the aesthetic requirement.
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
Enables safe and efficient operation of induction heating units by preventing table damage, providing user-friendly control and information display, and ensuring accurate placement for optimal cooking performance.
Implementation Method 1
when current is applied to the working coil, a magnetic field is generated around the working coil, and an eddy current is generated in the cooking container due to a resistance component (steel) included in the cooking container when the magnetic field passes through the cooking container
Implementation Method 2
an eddy current is generated in the cooking container due to a resistance component (steel) included in the cooking container when the magnetic field passes through the cooking container. Because the cooking container is made from a resistance component, the cooking container is heated due to the eddy current
Implementation Method 3
a magnetic field sensor for accurate placement
Data Source
AI summary
A container support is disclosed. The container support is operated in conjunction with an induction heating unit, which is disposed beneath a table and generates a magnetic field, and includes a plate for supporting a cooking container placed thereon, a manipulation unit provided at a portion of the plate so as to receive control commands from a user, and a signal-transmitting part provided at a portion of the plate so as to transmit electric signals to the induction heating unit.