Control device for a hob and hob with a control device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing control devices for hobs face increased power demands due to growing functionality and module counts, necessitating efficient power supply solutions while maintaining cost-effectiveness and space efficiency, without requiring extensive modifications.

Innovation Solution

A control device with multiple power interfaces that can connect to multiple hob power units, allowing for independent power distribution from different sources, including galvanically isolated interfaces, to manage varying power demands and prevent overloading.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If control devices have increased functionality and more units/modules, then the power demand increases, but the manufacturing cost and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidpower demand
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The control device is divided into multiple independently powerable modules or units, each capable of being powered separately through the power distribution network. This segmentation allows the control device to have increased functionality through multiple units while managing power demand in a distributed manner rather than requiring a single high-power supply.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If control devices have increased functionality and more units/modules, then the power demand increases, but separate external power supplies increase manufacturing cost and complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidpower supply structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple power supply functions are merged into a single power distribution network that serves the entire control device. Instead of using separate external power supplies for different modules, the invention combines power distribution through a unified network that can deliver power to multiple units simultaneously, reducing overall system complexity and manufacturing costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The power distribution network is designed with universal interfaces and components that can serve multiple different units and modules within the control device. This multi-functional power network eliminates the need for specialized power supplies for each module, thereby reducing device complexity while supporting increased functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Power

If control devices use separate external power supply, then power demand is met, but assembly complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower supply capabilityVSAvoidassembly
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The power distribution network integrates multiple power delivery paths into a single assembled unit, eliminating the need to separately assemble and connect multiple external power supplies. This merging of power supply functions into one integrated system significantly simplifies the manufacturing and assembly process while maintaining the capability to meet increased power demands.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP4170241A1Control device for a hob and hob with a control device
Publication Date: 2023.04.26 ELECTROLUX APPLIANCES
  • EP4170241A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4170241A1 patent drawing
  • EP4170241A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a control device (100), preferably a user control device (100), for a hob (200) with at least one first hob power unit (201) and at least one second hob power unit (202), wherein for supply of power (P) of the control device (100) the control device (100) comprises at least one first interface (101) being configured for connection with the at least one first hob power unit (201) and/or at least one second interface (102) being configured for connection with the at least one second hob power unit (202). The present invention relates further to a hob (200) with a control device (100).