Integrated Cooktop Ventilator With Low-Noise Cross-Flow Blower
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional induction cook tops face challenges with noise, size, and inefficiency in ventilation systems, particularly with centrifugal blowers, which are bulky, costly, and disrupt air flow, leading to inadequate removal of contaminants and heat management issues.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a cross flow or centrifugal blower system with a telescoping ventilator into the induction cook top, allowing for adjustable speed control, reduced noise, and improved air flow management, along with a control board for power regulation and sensor integration for efficient operation and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional centrifugal blower is used for ventilation, then air removal capability is achieved, but noise level increases and device size becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameters of the blower system by transitioning from conventional centrifugal blowers to axial flow blowers, which operate with different airflow characteristics, lower rotational speeds, and different blade geometries, thereby reducing noise while maintaining ventilation effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical centrifugal blower system with an axial flow blower system that uses different aerodynamic principles, substituting the centrifugal force-based mechanism with a direct axial airflow mechanism that inherently produces less noise and occupies less space
2Ease of manufacture
If a fixed ventilator is used, then installation is simplified, but adaptability to different cooking needs is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a telescoping ventilator mechanism that can dynamically adjust its position between retracted and extended states, allowing the system to adapt to different cooking scenarios while maintaining a compact profile during normal operation and providing enhanced ventilation when needed
3Productivity
If the blower is positioned close to the cooking surface for efficient contaminant removal, then ventilation effectiveness increases, but interference with cooking operations occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping ventilator can extend downward close to the cooking surface when high ventilation effectiveness is needed, then retract upward to clear the cooking area and eliminate interference with cooking operations, providing dynamic spatial adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The ventilator operates in periodic cycles, extending and retracting based on cooking needs, allowing efficient contaminant removal during high-ventilation periods while maintaining unobstructed cooking access during low-ventilation periods
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 solution enhances ventilation efficiency, reduces noise and size, and provides better control over heat and contaminant removal, enabling flexible placement and easier maintenance, while optimizing energy use and user experience.
Implementation Method 1
induction heating coils sandwiched in-between
Implementation Method 2
cross flow or centrifugal blower system for the source of air removal device
Data Source
AI summary
An indoor or outdoor induction cook top system with integrated downdraft or telescoping ventilator uses cross flow or centrifugal blower technology. The system is controlled by an electronic or mechanical controller through a touch device, a slide, or knob. These provide precise control and an efficient way of removal of gases/fumes. A smooth glass cook top incorporates the induction hobs and a downdraft. The ventilator's blower assembly has a fan and a filter. The system uses sensors to detect temperature, fire, effluent, filter change requirements, fan speed, power, and voltage. The system has programmable operations and numerous set points.