Induction Cooktop Detection Coil Insulating Layer Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing induction cooktops face issues with inaccurate detection of kitchenware due to the high susceptibility to error and low spatial resolution when heating inductors are used for detection, and additional components required for separate sensor arrangements increase manufacturing and assembly costs.
Innovation Solution
An induction cooktop apparatus with an inductor and a detection coil integrated into an insulating layer unit, which provides electrical insulation and eliminates the need for additional support structures, allowing for a modular design and reduced error susceptibility, while enabling high-resolution object recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If heating inductors are used for detecting kitchenware elements, then the detection can be performed without additional sensors, but the spatial resolution is low and detection accuracy is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection function from the heating function by using separate detection coils distinct from the heating inductors. This segmentation allows the detection system to have optimized geometry and positioning for high spatial resolution, while heating inductors maintain their heating-optimized configuration. The detection coils are arranged independently to achieve better object recognition accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an insulating layer unit as an intermediary component that integrates both the heating inductor and detection coil. This mediator structure allows close spatial positioning of detection coils to heating zones for high-resolution detection, while maintaining electrical insulation and functional independence. The insulating layer unit enables the detection system to operate effectively without interfering with heating operations.
2Measurement precision
If separate sensor coils are arranged between heating inductors, then detection accuracy improves, but manufacturing and assembly costs increase due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the heating inductor, insulating layer, and detection coil into a single integrated insulating layer unit. This combination eliminates the need for separate mounting structures, fasteners, and additional assembly steps. The detection coil is directly embedded in or mounted to the insulating layer unit, which itself is positioned on the heating inductor, creating a compact assembly that reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulating layer unit serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical insulation for the heating inductor, supports and positions the detection coil, and acts as a structural element of the cooktop apparatus. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed and simplifies both manufacturing and assembly processes while maintaining high detection precision.
3Measurement precision
If separate sensors are applied to a plate between heating inductors and cover plate, then detection precision improves, but assembly time and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The detection coil and insulating layer are merged into a single integrated unit, eliminating the need for separate mounting operations. The detection coil is either embedded within or directly attached to the insulating layer unit as one assembly step, rather than requiring separate installation on a plate structure. This integration significantly reduces assembly time while maintaining the spatial resolution benefits of separate detection coils.
4Use of energy by moving object
If heating inductors are used as sensors, then energy consumption during detection is reduced, but error susceptibility increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection function from heating operations by using dedicated detection coils that operate independently. These separate detection coils can be activated without energizing the heating inductors, eliminating interference from heating fields. This segmentation improves detection reliability by providing clean, interference-free signals while the energy consumption remains manageable due to the efficient design of the detection coil system.
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 reduces manufacturing and assembly costs, enhances detection accuracy, and allows for flexible adaptation to various inductor geometries, improving object recognition with reduced energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
an induction cooktop with sensor coils which are arranged in each case between two adjacent heating inductors
Implementation Method 2
The inductor is provided in the operating state to provide energy in the form of an electromagnetic alternating field, advantageously for the purpose of an inductive energy transmission, to the object
Data Source
AI summary
An induction cooktop apparatus includes an inductor, an insulating layer unit electrically insulating the inductor, and a detection coil for object recognition, said detection coil connected to the insulating layer.