High Frequency Heating Apparatus Electrode Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional high frequency heating apparatuses face challenges in accurately positioning electrodes due to the need for large motors or gears, leading to inefficient heating and space inefficiency, as they struggle to place electrodes at appropriate heights for uniform heating.

Innovation Solution

A high frequency heating apparatus with a position adjuster system comprising a weight, connecting lines, pulleys, and drive units, which allows for precise adjustment of the electrode's position using a smaller motor, reducing the need for extensive space and improving heating efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If a large-sized motor with high torque or gears is used to move the electrode, then the electrode can be supported and moved, but the apparatus requires extensive space and the motor control becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovetorqueVSAvoidspace
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the counterweight principle by introducing a weight that balances the electrode's weight. The weight is connected to the electrode through connecting lines and pulleys, creating a counterbalancing force that offsets the electrode's weight. This allows a smaller motor to move the electrode by only needing to overcome friction and provide acceleration, rather than supporting the full weight, thereby reducing the motor size and space requirements while maintaining the ability to move the electrode vertically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

2Force

If a large-sized motor with high torque or gears is used to move the electrode, then the electrode can be supported and moved, but the motor control becomes difficult achieving appropriate positioning

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovetorqueVSAvoidcontrol
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The counterweight system balances the electrode's weight, significantly reducing the force the motor must exert. This makes the motor's control much easier, as it only needs to provide small forces for positioning adjustments rather than overcoming the full weight of the electrode. The motor can precisely control the electrode's vertical position with minimal effort, improving ease of operation and positioning accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

3Device complexity

If the electrode cannot be placed at an appropriate position, then the apparatus structure is simpler, but the heating target cannot be heated uniformly or efficiently

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovestructureVSAvoidheating efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a position adjuster that changes the vertical position parameter of the electrode. By allowing the electrode's position to be adjusted, the system can adapt to heating targets of different heights, ensuring optimal heating conditions. The position adjuster includes a weight, connecting lines, pulleys, and a drive unit, enabling precise vertical movement of the electrode to achieve uniform and efficient heating across various target configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 apparatus achieves efficient and uniform heating of targets by accurately positioning the electrode, reducing heating time and allowing for a more compact design with a smaller motor, thus enhancing both efficiency and space utilization.

Implementation Method 1

The one or more pulleys each support a corresponding one of the one or more connecting lines

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPulley: Pulley

Implementation Method 2

The position adjuster includes a weight, one or more connecting lines, one or more pulleys, and one or more drive units

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravitation: Gravitation

Implementation Method 3

The one or more drive units each are attached to a corresponding pulley of the one or more pulleys, and drive the corresponding pulley

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion:

Implementation Method 4

The high frequency power supply supplies a high frequency power to the first electrode or the second electrode

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDielectric heating: Dielectric Heating

Data Source

PatentUS12048082B2High frequency heating apparatus
Publication Date: 2024.07.23 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • US12048082B2 patent drawing
  • US12048082B2 patent drawing
  • US12048082B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A high frequency heating apparatus of the present disclosure includes a first electrode (11), a second electrode (12), a high frequency power supply, a position adjuster (20), and a controller. The second electrode (12) is disposed facing the first electrode (11). The high frequency power supply supplies high frequency power to the first electrode (11) or the second electrode (12). The position adjuster (20) adjusts the position of the first electrode (11). The controller controls the position adjuster (20). The position adjuster (20) includes a weight (21), one or more connecting lines (22), one or more pulleys (23), and one or more drive units (24). The one or more connecting lines (22) connect the weight (21) and the first electrode (11). The one or more pulleys (23) support the one or more connecting lines (22). The one or more drive units (24) are attached to the one or more pulleys (23) and drive the one or more pulleys (23). In this embodiment, a heating target can be heated efficiently.