Induction heating cooking device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Induction heating cooking devices lack intuitive visualization of the heating state, making it difficult for users to recognize the heating status, especially from a distance or without detailed observation, due to the absence of a visible flame.

Innovation Solution

The induction heating cooking device incorporates a light source unit with an optical member, such as a convex lens or total reflection lens, to project a virtual flame image onto the cooking container, enhancing the visibility of the heating state by forming a flame image with a three-dimensional effect and shade, and minimizing the distance tolerance between the light source and the main slit for improved reliability and aesthetics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If a level meter type digital display is provided to display the heating state, then the heating state can be displayed, but the recognizability is low and it is difficult for users to recognize from a distance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheating state informationVSAvoidvisual recognizability
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual flame image that copies the visual appearance of a real flame using light projection. This virtual flame is projected onto the cooking container surface, providing intuitive visual feedback about heating status without requiring users to read digital displays up close. The flame image serves as a visual copy that conveys heating information instantly and recognizably from a distance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Loss of energy

If no flame is generated during heating, then induction heating is efficient and clean, but it is difficult to intuitively recognize the heating state

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheating efficiencyVSAvoidheating state visibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an optical member as an intermediary between the light source and the cooking container. This optical member projects a virtual flame image onto the container surface, serving as a visual mediator that communicates heating status without interfering with the actual induction heating process. The intermediary provides visual information while maintaining the efficiency and cleanliness of induction heating.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of manufacture

If the distance between light source and main slit is not precisely controlled, then device assembly is simpler, but the quality of flame image and product reliability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoidflame image quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary action by pre-setting the distance between the light source and the main slit during device assembly. This predetermined distance configuration ensures optimal flame image quality and product reliability before the device is put into use. By establishing the correct spacing in advance, the system achieves reliable visual feedback without requiring complex real-time adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 virtual flame image provides intuitive and easy recognition of the heating state, enhancing user experience and product quality by creating a realistic flame appearance while preventing an artificial feel and maintaining an aesthetic sense.

Implementation Method 1

an induction coil for generating a magnetic field to inductively heat a cooking container put on the cooking counter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The induction heating cooking device is provided with a cooking counter on which a cooking container is put and an induction coil for generating a magnetic field when a current is applied

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInduction heating: Induction Heating

Implementation Method 3

a secondary current is induced to the cooking container, and Joule heat is generated due to a resistance component of the cooking container itself

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectJoule heating: Joule Heating

Implementation Method 4

an optical member for changing a travelling direction of light emitted from the light source and concentrating the light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight refraction: Refraction

Implementation Method 5

The optical member may include a convex lens

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLens focusing: Lens

Implementation Method 6

a main slit for passing the light emitted from the optical member to form a flame image on the cooking container

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight projection: Light

Implementation Method 7

The total reflection lens may include a total reflection surface configured not to transmit the approaching light but to reflecting all of the light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTotal internal reflection: Total Internal Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS11191130B2Induction heating cooking device
Publication Date: 2021.11.30 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US11191130B2 patent drawing
  • US11191130B2 patent drawing
  • US11191130B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An induction heating cooking device includes a cooking table having an auxiliary slit through which light passes; an induction coil for generating a magnetic field so as to inductively heat a cooking container placed on the cooking table; at least one light source disposed at the outer edge of the induction coil; an optical member for changing the traveling direction of light emitted the light source and concentrating the light, and a main slit through which light emitted from the optical member passes so as to form a flame image on the cooking container. The induction heating cooking device forms a virtual flame image on the lower surface of a cooking container at the time of operation of the induction coil, thereby enabling the heating state of the cooking container to be easily recognized.