Induction Coil Beam Assembly to Reduce Spring Complexity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional induction cooktops face complexity in assembly due to the use of multiple helical springs for pressing inductors against the cover plate, leading to increased complexity and difficulty in manufacturing and assembly.
Innovation Solution
The induction cooktop design employs a beam structure with spring mechanisms to support induction coils, eliminating the need for multiple helical springs by using a beam structure that extends across the housing and connects to the sides, allowing the inductors to be pressed against the cover plate without the need for multiple springs, thus simplifying the assembly process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple helical springs are used to press inductors against the cover plate, then the inductors are securely pressed against the plate, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple individual spring mechanisms are merged into a single beam structure that spans across the housing. The beam structure integrates the function of multiple springs into one unified component, reducing the number of parts from multiple springs to a single beam assembly while maintaining the pressing function across multiple inductor positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a support structure for the inductors, provides spring mechanisms at both ends to press against the cover plate, and serves as a mounting structure for the cooking apparatus components. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate spring components for each inductor.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple helical springs are used to support each inductor, then each inductor is independently pressed, but the manufacturing process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The beam structure is divided into distinct segments including a first end portion, a second end portion, and intermediate sections. Each end portion can be independently configured with spring mechanisms, allowing for modular assembly while maintaining precise positioning of multiple inductors along the beam length.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple spring mechanisms that would traditionally be manufactured and assembled separately are combined into an integrated beam structure. The beam itself serves as the mounting structure and the spring support, eliminating the need for separate spring components and simplifying the manufacturing process.
3Ease of operation
If a beam structure with spring mechanisms is used instead of multiple helical springs, then the assembly process is simplified, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The beam structure is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides structural support for the inductors, incorporates spring mechanisms for pressing against the cover plate, and serves as a mounting structure for the cooking apparatus. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate components into a single integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam structure incorporates elastic elements that provide dynamic spring mechanisms at the end portions. These elastic elements allow the beam to flex and provide continuous contact pressure against the cover plate, maintaining reliable electrical contact while simplifying the assembly process compared to rigid mounting structures.
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 simplifies the assembly of induction cooktops, reduces manufacturing complexity, and enhances the durability and resiliency of the cooktop by allowing for vertical adjustment of the coil beam assemblies, ensuring consistent contact with the cooking surface.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of spring mechanisms connects the first end portion to the first side and the second end portion to the second side
Implementation Method 2
induction coils is arranged in at least one linear array beneath the cooking surface
Data Source
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AI summary
An induction cooking apparatus comprises a panel forming a cooking surface and a bottom surface. The cooking surface is configured to support a cooking utensil. A housing is in connection with and disposed beneath the cooking surface. The housing forms an enclosure having an internal cavity. The enclosure comprises a first side and a second side opposite the first side. A plurality of induction coils is arranged in at least one linear array beneath the cooking surface. A beam structure comprises a first end portion and a second end portion. The beam structure is configured to extend across the housing of the cooking apparatus from the first side to the second side and support the plurality of induction coils. A plurality of spring mechanisms connects the first end portion to the first side and the second end portion to the second side.