Induction Cooker Mounting Frame for Invisible Worktop Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Invisible induction cooking devices face inefficiencies in energy transfer due to increased distance between the induction coil and cooking surface, leading to structural weakening of the worktop, additional support requirements, and limitations in cooking temperature, which existing solutions attempt to address through recesses, insulation layers, or power limitations.
Innovation Solution
A method for securing an induction cooking device under a worktop using a support frame with parallel rails and a tower-shaped element, allowing for accurate placement and fixing without weakening the worktop, utilizing temporary securing means like magnets and a temperature sensor with a shield cover for efficient energy transfer and thermal monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the distance between the induction coil and cooking surface is increased to create an invisible induction cooking device, then the worktop remains continuous and aesthetically pleasing, but the efficiency of energy transfer from the induction coil to the cooking pot deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A magnetic flux concentrator made of ferrite material is introduced as an intermediary component between the induction coil and the cooking surface. This concentrator focuses and directs the magnetic flux generated by the induction coil, enabling efficient energy transfer to the cooking pot even through the continuous worktop structure, thus resolving the contradiction between worktop aesthetics and energy transfer efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the magnetic field parameters by using a magnetic flux concentrator with specific magnetic permeability properties. This allows the magnetic flux to be concentrated and directed through the worktop to the cooking pot, maintaining effective energy transfer despite the increased distance and continuous worktop design
2Loss of energy
If recesses are provided in the worktop to reduce the distance between the cooking surface and induction coil, then energy transfer efficiency is improved, but the structural strength of the worktop deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of creating recesses in the worktop, the patent uses a magnetic flux concentrator as an intermediary that enables efficient energy transfer while maintaining the worktop's continuous structure and structural integrity, thus improving energy transfer without compromising strength
3Loss of energy
If very thin work plates are used to reduce distance between induction coil and cooking surface, then energy transfer efficiency is improved, but additional support frames are required which increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic flux concentrator serves as an intermediary that enables thin worktop designs without requiring additional support frames. The concentrator compensates for the reduced structural thickness by focusing magnetic flux, thus improving energy transfer efficiency while avoiding the complexity of additional support structures
4Object-affected harmful factors
If thermal insulation layers are provided between the worktop and cooking pot, then worktop damage from heat is prevented, but the overall cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potentially harmful heat transfer into a beneficial effect by using the magnetic flux concentrator to direct magnetic flux efficiently while the worktop's natural thermal properties provide sufficient heat protection. The system leverages the worktop material characteristics rather than adding insulation layers, thus preventing heat damage without increasing complexity
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 method enables efficient energy transfer, reduces the need for additional support, maintains worktop integrity, and allows for higher cooking temperatures by accurately positioning the induction cooking device, facilitating modular installation and reliable thermal monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
The alternating current in the induction coil generates a magnetic field that generates eddy currents in the underside of an electrically conductive holder (i.e. a cooking pot)
Implementation Method 2
The alternating current in the induction coil generates a magnetic field that generates eddy currents in the underside of an electrically conductive holder
Implementation Method 3
a magnetic flux concentrator, typically made of ferrite, is provided under the induction coil
Data Source
AI summary
A method for securing an induction cooking device (5) under a worktop (2) having an upper surface, a lower surface and at least one opening extending through the worktop. The method comprises: providing a support frame comprising two mutually parallel rails connected via a transverse element; providing the induction cooking device, which induction cooking device comprises a tower-shaped element projecting from the upper surface; placing a temporary securing means in the opening in the worktop; securing the transverse element to the temporary securing means; fixing the parallel rails relative to the worktop; removing the transverse element and the temporary securing means; placing the induction cooking device under the worktop with the tower-shaped element in the opening; and fixing the induction cooking device to the parallel rails. This method can be performed by one person and results in accurate positioning of the induction cooker relative to the worktop.