Induction Cooker Temperature Feedback for Automated Cooking Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stove top cooking lacks user feedback on temperature and requires manual intervention, leading to uncertainty and inadequate cooking results due to difficulties in setting and maintaining accurate temperatures.
Innovation Solution
A portable induction cooking appliance with a temperature sensor assembly, processor module, and user interface that automatically adjusts cooking parameters based on selected cookware and cooking procedures, providing real-time feedback and precise temperature control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional heating appliances are used, then manual control is simple, but temperature accuracy and user feedback are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a temperature feedback system where a temperature sensor continuously monitors the cooking vessel temperature and sends signals to the processor. The processor compares the actual temperature with the target temperature and automatically adjusts the induction heating power accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables precise temperature control without requiring complex manual intervention from the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical temperature control with an automated electronic control system. Instead of relying on user judgment and manual adjustment of heating elements, the system uses electronic temperature sensors, microprocessors, and automated power regulation to precisely control the heating process, eliminating the need for complex manual monitoring and adjustment.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated temperature control is implemented, then cooking precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-regulating temperature control system where the appliance automatically monitors its own temperature through sensors and adjusts its heating output without external intervention. The processor continuously reads temperature data, compares it with the target temperature, and autonomously modulates the induction heating power to maintain precise temperature control throughout the cooking process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs continuous temperature feedback through sensors that monitor the cooking vessel temperature in real-time. This feedback is processed by the microprocessor which automatically adjusts the heating power to maintain the desired temperature, eliminating the need for complex manual control mechanisms while achieving high temperature precision.
3Reliability
If manual temperature adjustment is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but cooking consistency and quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the cooking appliance to automatically manage the entire heating process without user intervention. The system self-monitors temperature through sensors, self-adjusts heating power through automated control algorithms, and self-regulates to maintain consistent cooking conditions. This eliminates variability introduced by manual operation while keeping the user interface simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated feedback control system continuously monitors cooking conditions and automatically adjusts heating parameters to maintain consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. This eliminates the inconsistency inherent in manual temperature adjustment while preserving ease of operation through simple preset selection interfaces.
4Reliability
If cooling assembly is added to protect electronic elements, then device reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the cooling function into a separate, dedicated cooling assembly that is independently integrated into the appliance housing. This modular cooling system, featuring separate fans and airflow channels, isolates the thermal management requirements from the main heating and control systems, protecting electronic elements from excessive heat while maintaining overall system simplicity through functional separation.
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
Enhances the automation, predictability, and quality of the cooking process by offering precise temperature control and user feedback, reducing the risk of undercooked or overcooked food.
Implementation Method 1
an induction element located below the cooking surface
Implementation Method 2
a temperature sensor assembly having a temperature sensing element; the temperature sensing element providing a temperature signal indicative of a current temperature of the item
Implementation Method 3
a first fan for providing airflow about the induction element and exposing the temperature sensing assembly to a fan cooling path such that the temperature sensing element is selectively cooled from below
Implementation Method 4
a second fan for providing airflow about the electronic elements
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A cooking appliance and method, the appliance including: at least one temperature controlled heating element; a user interface for enabling a user to select a predefined subject for cooking; and a processor module that maintains a cooking data for cooking the selected predefined subject, and provides prompts to the user during cooking. The cooking data can be indicative of a cooking sequence or procedure. A cookware sensor can automatically identifying cookware being used.