Induction Cooking Hob Two-Zone Control to Reduce Acoustic Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Induction cooking hobs experience acoustic noise due to interference between cooking zones operating at slightly different frequencies.
Innovation Solution
A method for controlling two cooking zones of an induction cooking hob that selects an algorithm based on the requested powers and relationships between them, using continuous, pulsed, or alternating patterns to minimize acoustic noise by ensuring that generators are never activated simultaneously.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If two or more cooking zones operate simultaneously at different frequencies, then power delivery capability is improved, but acoustic noise increases due to interference between frequencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing alternating activation patterns where cooking zones are switched on and off in periodic cycles rather than operating continuously simultaneously. This allows power delivery capability to be maintained over time while eliminating acoustic noise interference that occurs when zones operate at different frequencies at the same time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the activation state of cooking zones variable and adaptive based on real-time conditions. The system dynamically adjusts which zones are active, their duration, and their timing to balance power delivery requirements with noise reduction, rather than using a fixed operational mode.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If cooking zones are activated alternately to reduce acoustic noise, then acoustic noise is reduced, but power delivery efficiency may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action by ensuring that while individual cooking zones are activated alternately, the system as a whole continuously delivers the required power. The alternating activation patterns are designed so that power delivery is sustained over time through coordinated switching, preventing interruptions that would reduce overall productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and planning the activation sequences of cooking zones based on the total power requirement. The system determines optimal alternating patterns in advance, ensuring that power delivery efficiency is maintained while noise is reduced, rather than reactively adjusting during operation.
3Device complexity
If a simple one-zone mode control is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different cooking scenarios is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a control system that can perform multiple functions: it handles single-zone operation, multi-zone operation, noise reduction modes, and power optimization. The same alternating activation framework adapts to different cooking scenarios and power requirements, making the system versatile without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the control logic into distinct modular components: detection of cooking vessels, determination of power requirements, selection of activation patterns, and execution of alternating sequences. This segmented approach allows the system to handle complex adaptability requirements through manageable, independent control modules.
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
Effectively reduces acoustic noise by ensuring that only one cooking zone is active at a time or uses specific power distribution patterns to minimize interference, maintaining power delivery efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
each cooking zone (18, 20) is supplied with a frequency by a corresponding generator (14, 16)
Implementation Method 2
an induction cooking hob with a plurality of resonant inductors
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for controlling a first cooking zone (18) and a second cooking zone (20) of an induction cooking hob, wherein each cooking zone (18, 20) is supplied by a corresponding generator (14, 16), and wherein the method comprises the steps of inputting a requested power (P1, P2) for each cooking zone (18, 20), activating a one-zone mode, if the requested power (P1, P2) for one cooking zone (18, 20) is bigger than zero and the requested power (P1, P2) for the other one cooking zone (18, 20) is zero, and activating a two-zones mode, if the requested powers (P1, P2) for both cooking zones (18, 20) are bigger than zero. If the two-zones mode is activated, then an algorithm (48, 50, 52, 54) is selected from a set of algorithms (48, 50, 52, 54) in dependence of the requested powers (P1, P2) for the cooking zones (18, 20).