Cooking Chamber Load Detection Using Microwave Trap Temperature Gradients
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load detection methods in cooking devices are unsuitable for short cooking processes due to their inaccuracy and slow speed, typically taking up to two minutes and providing only rough classification of the load present in the cooking chamber.
Innovation Solution
A method involving sensor data fusion, combining cooking chamber climate values with the gradient of temperature change detected by a microwave trap or absorber, allowing for precise estimation of the load in the cooking chamber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If load detection is performed via heating device by determining heat loss, then load can be detected, but detection time is too long (up to two minutes) and precision is insufficient for short cooking processes
Solution Approach 1:
A microwave trap or microwave absorber is introduced as an intermediary component to detect microwave energy in the cooking chamber. This mediator converts microwave energy directly into thermal energy, which is then measured by a temperature sensor, providing a faster and more precise load detection method compared to using the heating device alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the conventional heating device-based detection method with a microwave-based detection system. By using a microwave trap/absorber combined with temperature sensing, the system substitutes the slow thermal conduction method with a direct microwave energy measurement approach, significantly reducing detection time.
2Measurement precision
If conventional heating device method is used for load detection, then detection can be performed, but only rough classification of load is achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple sensing capabilities into a unified detection system. By combining the microwave trap/absorber with a temperature sensor and integrating the detection results with existing cooking chamber climate data, the system achieves precise load classification without requiring separate complex detection devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The microwave trap or absorber serves multiple functions: it acts as both a microwave shielding component (preventing microwaves from reaching sensitive electronics) and a detection element (converting microwave energy to thermal energy for measurement). This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated detection hardware.
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 fast and accurate load detection in cooking devices, enabling precise control of the microwave source and improving the overall cooking process, particularly for short cooking times.
Implementation Method 1
a microwave trap or the microwave absorber, by means of a temperature sensor associated with the microwave trap or the microwave absorber
Data Source
AI summary
A method for load detection in a cooking chamber of a cooking device is described. At least one cooking chamber climate value in the cooking chamber is acquired. A gradient of a temperature change is acquired using a temperature sensor associated with a microwave trap or a microwave absorber. The at least one cooking chamber climate value and the gradient of the temperature change are evaluated jointly to estimate the load in the cooking chamber of the cooking device. Furthermore, a cooking device for cooking food to be cooked is described.