Induction Coil Assembly Central Fix and Turn Fastening

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing induction coil assemblies are complex due to the need for specific hook-shaped fastening elements on disc-shaped support elements that correspond to specific apertures on the bottom plate, limiting flexibility and increasing costs.

Innovation Solution

A central fix and turn element that cooperates with a shaped opening in the bottom plate allows for the use of identical fastening devices with heating elements of different dimensions and shapes, simplifying the fixing process and enabling standardization of components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If hook-shaped fastening elements on disc-shaped support elements are used to correspond to specific apertures in the bottom plate, then the heating element can be securely fastened, but the complexity of the induction coil assembly increases and flexibility is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure fasteningVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by replacing multiple specific hook-shaped fastening elements with a single universal clamp assembly that can accommodate various heating element shapes and sizes. The clamp assembly with its adjustable jaw structures serves multiple fastening functions that previously required different specialized components, thereby reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining secure fastening.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp assembly is segmented into multiple independent components including the clamp body, adjustable jaws, and mounting mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while enabling easy assembly and disassembly, reducing the complexity of the overall fastening system compared to integrated hook-shaped elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If hook-shaped fastening elements corresponding to specific apertures are used, then secure fastening is achieved, but the cost of the induction coil assembly increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure fasteningVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By designing a universal clamp assembly that can fasten various heating elements using a single standardized component, the patent reduces the number of different parts that need to be manufactured and inventoried. This universality leads to economies of scale in manufacturing, lowering per-unit costs compared to producing multiple specialized hook-shaped fastening elements for different aperture configurations.

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

Solution Approach 2:

This principle is not applicable to the mechanical fastening system described in the patent.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

3Reliability

If multiple specific fastening configurations are used for different heating element dimensions, then secure fastening is achieved, but flexibility is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure fasteningVSAvoidflexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The clamp assembly is designed as a universal fastening device that can accommodate heating elements of various shapes, sizes, and configurations through its adjustable jaw structures and modular components. This single versatile assembly replaces the need for multiple specialized fastening configurations, thereby increasing flexibility and adaptability while maintaining secure fastening for different heating element types.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp assembly incorporates dynamic adjustable features including movable jaws and reconfigurable mounting positions that can be adapted to different heating element dimensions. This dynamic adjustability allows the same fastening device to securely hold various coil sizes and shapes, enhancing versatility without requiring multiple fixed-configuration fasteners.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 solution reduces the overall cost and increases flexibility by allowing the induction coil assembly to be used with various coil sizes and shapes, facilitating faster assembly and reducing the need for multiple connection options.

Implementation Method 1

each coil assembly (14) being connected to the substrate (12) by a central fix and turn element (16)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

an induction heating element is placed, such induction heating element comprising a coil mounted on a support element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInduction heating: Induction Heating

Data Source

PatentEP3567987B1Induction coil assembly
Publication Date: 2020.11.25 WHIRLPOOL CORP
  • EP3567987B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3B
  • EP3567987B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

An induction coil assembly comprises a bottom plate on which an induction heating element is placed; the induction heating element comprises a coil mounted on a discshaped support element, means being provided for fastening the heating element (14) to the bottom plate (12), wherein such means comprises a central fix and turn element (16) configured to cooperate with a central aperture (22) of the bottom plate (12).