Humidity-Responsive Vapor Extraction Fitting for Cooking Appliances
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooking appliances face challenges in effectively and efficiently removing vapors based on moisture levels, as existing technologies do not provide a flexible and reliable method for adjusting fume extraction in response to varying humidity.
Innovation Solution
A fume extraction device with an adjustable fitting that changes length in response to humidity levels, utilizing hygroscopic elements such as plastic strips or bimetallic strips to control the flow cross-section, allowing for precise and tolerant adjustment of vapor flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a throttle is used to adjust the flow cross-section of the vapor opening, then the vapor extraction can be controlled, but the construction becomes complex and the adjustment is sensitive to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the adjustment function from a complex throttle mechanism and implements it through a simple hygroscopic adjustment element that automatically changes length in response to humidity, eliminating the need for complex mechanical adjustment systems while maintaining effective vapor extraction control
Solution Approach 2:
The hygroscopic adjustment element automatically responds to humidity changes by changing its own length, enabling self-regulating vapor extraction control without requiring external actuators or complex control systems, thus simplifying the overall device construction
2Measurement precision
If the adjustment element is placed in the vapor channel, then it can directly respond to humidity, but it is exposed to high temperatures and soiling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a fluidic connection as an intermediary between the vapor channel and the adjustment element, allowing the adjustment element to respond to humidity through a separate chamber that is not directly exposed to high temperatures and soiling, thus protecting the adjustment element while maintaining responsive control
3Ease of operation
If a complex adjustment mechanism is used, then precise control is achieved, but the device occupies more space and becomes less compact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the adjustment element by using hygroscopic materials that automatically change length in response to humidity levels, eliminating the need for complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms and reducing the overall device volume while maintaining precise control capability
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 efficient and flexible vapor removal by automatically adjusting to moisture levels, ensuring effective vapor extraction while minimizing energy consumption and maintaining a compact design, with the added benefit of protecting components from excessive temperatures and soiling.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one adjustment element is hygroscopic and swells depending on the degree of moisture
Implementation Method 2
The moisture sensing element absorbs and desorbs moisture
Data Source
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AI summary
The cooking appliance (101) according to the invention is equipped with a vapor extraction means (105), wherein the vapor extraction means (105) has at least one fitting (112-115) which can be adjusted automatically depending on a degree of moisture of the vapor (W), wherein the fitting (112-115) has at least one adjustment element (114) for the adjustment thereof, the length of the element changing depending on the degree of moisture.