Induction Coil Array Connection Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional induction cooktops face inefficiencies due to the use of flexible wires for connecting induction coils to inverter assemblies, which can lead to complex and costly assemblies, and limited flexibility in cooking zone placement.
Innovation Solution
The induction cooktop design incorporates a connection interface with PCB-based electrical circuits and inverter assemblies, utilizing a plurality of mating connectors to eliminate flexible wires and enable a 'cook anywhere' functionality with evenly distributed induction coils supported by beam structures and plasto-ferritic foils for improved mechanical strength and energy distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If flexible wires are used to connect induction coils to inverter assemblies, then electrical connections can be made, but the assembly becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrical circuit board and inverter assembly into a single integrated unit. The electrical circuit board is directly mounted on the inverter assembly housing, eliminating the need for separate flexible wire connections. This integration simplifies the overall assembly structure and reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining electrical connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates the flexible wires from the system by establishing direct rigid electrical connections through the integrated circuit board and inverter assembly. This removal of unnecessary components simplifies the assembly structure and reduces potential failure points.
2Adaptability or versatility
If flexible wires are used for connecting coils to inverters, then connections are established, but cooking zone placement flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated electrical circuit board and inverter assembly design allows multiple induction coils to be connected to a single inverter unit through the circuit board network. This universal connection approach enables flexible placement of cooking zones across the cooktop surface, as coils can be positioned independently without being constrained by wire routing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the electrical connection system into modular components where individual coils can be independently connected to the circuit board at various locations. This segmentation allows cooking zones to be placed flexibly across the cooking surface while maintaining simple electrical connections through the distributed circuit board layout.
3Ease of manufacture
If PCB-based electrical circuits are used instead of flexible wires, then manufacturing is simplified, but connection interface design becomes more critical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrical circuit board and inverter assembly into a single integrated unit with a unified connection interface. This integration simplifies manufacturing by reducing the number of separate connection components while the connection interface design incorporates alignment features and robust mechanical coupling to handle the increased design requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection interface acts as an intermediary between the electrical circuit board and inverter assembly, providing a standardized mechanical and electrical coupling mechanism. This intermediary structure includes alignment pins, mounting holes, and contact interfaces that facilitate precise assembly while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
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 design enhances the efficiency and economy of induction cooktops by simplifying the electrical connections, allowing for flexible cooking zones and improved energy distribution across the cooking surface, while reducing manufacturing defects and stress on structural components.
Implementation Method 1
Induction cooktops are devices which exploit the phenomenon of induction heating for food cooking purposes
Implementation Method 2
At least one beam structure is configured to support the at least one array of induction coils
Implementation Method 3
The electrical circuit and the inverter assembly form a connection interface comprising a plurality of mating connectors. The mating connectors electrically connect the array with the inverter assembly
Data Source
AI summary
An induction cooking apparatus includes a plurality of induction coils arranged in at least one array. At least one beam structure is configured to support the at least one array of induction coils. At least one electrical circuit is in connection with the at least one beam structure and in communication with each of the plurality of induction coils forming the at least one array. At least one inverter assembly is configured to drive the induction coils. The electrical circuit and the inverter assembly form a connection interface including a plurality of mating connectors. The mating connectors of the connection interface electrically connect the array with the inverter assembly.