Induction Cooktop Heater with Coplanar Inductor and Sensor Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Induction cooktops with multiple inductors for flexible pot positioning are costly and complex to manufacture, and arranging inductors and sensors on distinct levels increases the distance between inductors and the cooktop surface, affecting detection efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An induction heater with inductors and sensors arranged on the same electrically insulating layer, allowing for cost-effective production and efficient detection of cooking utensils, with inductors and sensors being coplanar and close to the cooktop surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If inductors and sensors are arranged on distinct levels, then sensor detection function is improved, but the distance between inductors and cooktop surface increases, affecting heating efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a vertical stacking arrangement (distinct levels) to a coplanar arrangement where inductors and sensors are positioned on the same level. This dimensional reconfiguration allows both components to be close to the cooktop surface simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between detection function and heating efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple inductors are used for flexible pot positioning, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the inductor serve multiple functions: it performs both heating and sensor detection functions. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate sensor components, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining flexible pot positioning capability through the heating zone definition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the inductor and sensor into a single integrated component. By combining these previously separate elements, the system achieves flexible pot positioning without increasing manufacturing complexity, as the same inductor structure performs both heating and detection roles.
3Ease of manufacture
If inductors and sensors are arranged on the same level, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but sensor detection accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The inductor is designed to perform both heating and sensor detection functions simultaneously. This multi-functionality allows coplanar arrangement without compromising detection accuracy, as the inductor itself serves as the sensing element through its electromagnetic field interactions.
Solution Approach 2:
The inductor serves itself by performing both heating and detection functions. The same component that generates the electromagnetic field for heating also detects the presence and position of cookware through changes in its electrical characteristics, eliminating the need for separate sensor components.
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
Enables efficient heating and accurate detection of cooking utensils while reducing production costs and bulkiness, facilitating easy assembly and maintaining sensor functionality.
Implementation Method 1
at least one inductor defining a winding adapted, at least, to heat at least one cooking utensil
Implementation Method 2
at least one sensor adapted, at least, to detect whether the at least one cooking utensil is arranged above the cooking surface
Data Source
AI summary
An induction heater for a cooking surface. The induction heater includes an electrically insulating layer, at least one inductor defining a winding adapted to heat at least one cooking utensil, at least one sensor adapted to detect whether the at least one cooking utensil is placed above the cooking surface, and at least one magnetic flux concentrator. The at least one inductor and the at least one sensor are arranged on the electrically insulating layer. That layer is interposed between the at least one inductor and the at least one magnetic flux concentrator.