Induction Heating Coil Support Structure for Lorentz Force Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Induction heating coils face issues with surface discoloration and movement due to radiation heat and Lorentz forces, leading to inconsistent heating and potential short-circuiting, which existing supporting structures fail to adequately address.
Innovation Solution
A supporting structure with radial supporting columns and restricting members that maintain the induction heating coil's position, eliminating the need for insulation coatings and preventing movement, while also being designed to minimize heat load and maintain magnetic flux integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a coating film is applied to the induction heating coil surface for insulation, then electrical insulation is improved, but the coating generates smoke and causes discoloration when exposed to radiation heat from workpieces at 1000°C or higher
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the coating film from the induction heating coil surface entirely. Instead of using a coating for insulation, the design relies on the natural insulation properties of the coil structure and spacing, eliminating the source of smoke and discoloration while maintaining electrical insulation through alternative means
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary insulating structure between adjacent coils in the array. This intermediate insulating member provides the necessary electrical insulation without requiring a coating film on the coil surface, thus preventing smoke generation and discoloration while maintaining insulation reliability
2Power
If the induction heating coil is energized, then heating function is activated, but Lorentz forces cause the coil to contract and change positions, leading to inconsistent heating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary mechanical constraints to the coil structure before energization. Supporting columns and insulating structures are pre-positioned to physically restrict coil movement, preventing Lorentz force-induced contraction and position changes before they can affect heating consistency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses multiple identical coil structures arranged in an array, where each coil is independently supported. This replication of supported coil units ensures that position stability is maintained across the entire heating system, preventing variations in magnetic flux distribution and heating consistency
3Stability of the object's composition
If supporting structures are added to prevent coil movement, then position stability is improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs supporting structures that serve multiple functions simultaneously. The insulating members both provide electrical insulation between coils and act as positional constraints to prevent Lorentz force-induced movement. The supporting columns both support the coil weight and restrict axial movement, reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining position stability
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
The solution effectively prevents surface discoloration, movement, and short-circuiting, ensuring consistent heating and extending the lifespan of the supporting structure by reducing thermal impacts and maintaining magnetic flux distribution.
Implementation Method 1
an induction heating coil which is arranged around an outer circumference of a crucible-type molten metal container
Implementation Method 2
an internal force such as a Lorentz force is generated at winding portions of the induction heating coil
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a supporting structure for an induction heating coil and an induction heating device in which a surface of an induction heating coil is not formed of a coating film for insulation that generates a gas, and movement of the induction heating coil when the induction heating coil is energized can be suppressed. A supporting structure 4 of an induction heating device 1 includes a supporting column 20 and a plurality of restricting members 21. The supporting column 20 is disposed at an outer side in a radial direction of winding portions 13 of the induction heating coil 3, and extends in an axial direction S1. The restricting members 21 receive the induction heating coil 3 to restrict movement of the induction heating coil 3 in the axial direction S1 in an insulated state, and are supported by the supporting column 20.