Induction Cooktop Frequency Synchronization for Quiet Multi-Burner Heating
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Cooking devices using induction heating (IH) methods face limitations due to resonant frequency differences between power units, leading to noise generation when multiple power units operate together, restricting container size and cooking efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A cooking device with multiple power units that determine and synchronize a common operating frequency when a container is placed overlapping multiple burners, ensuring harmonization of resonant frequencies to reduce noise and enhance cooking efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If multiple power units are operated together to support larger containers, then container size capability is improved, but resonant frequency differences cause audible noise
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operating frequency parameter of power units based on container detection. When multiple power units operate together, the controller synchronizes their frequencies to eliminate resonant frequency differences, thereby preventing audible noise while maintaining the ability to support larger containers
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback control by continuously monitoring the operating state of multiple power units and adjusting their frequencies accordingly. The controller receives information about container presence and position, then coordinates power unit frequencies to maintain synchronization and avoid noise-generating frequency differences
2Device complexity
If a single power unit controls a limited burner range, then device complexity is reduced, but container size is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
Each power unit is designed with multi-functionality to support both individual operation for small containers and coordinated operation with other power units for larger containers. The controller enables flexible configuration where power units can function independently or in combination, allowing a single power unit to effectively serve multiple container size ranges
Solution Approach 2:
The heating system is segmented into multiple independent power units, each capable of operating autonomously. This segmentation allows the system to activate only the necessary number of power units based on container size and position, maintaining simplicity for small containers while enabling expanded capacity when needed
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 solution effectively blocks noise generation and allows for larger container sizes by synchronizing power unit frequencies, ensuring uniform heating and improved cooking performance.
Implementation Method 1
A cooking device based on an induction heating (IH) method generates a magnetic field by supplying a current to a burner. An eddy current is induced by the Faraday's Law as the magnetic field passes through a bottom surface of a conductive container placed on the burner
Implementation Method 2
Accordingly, Joule heat is generated by surface resistance, and thus, the conductive container is heated, and an object to be cooked contained in the conductive container is cooked
Implementation Method 3
When a plurality of power units are operated together according to the location where the container is placed, a resonant frequency difference between the plurality of power units may occur due to a deviation between components for each power unit and a difference between burner powers
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a cooking device capable of simultaneously controlling a plurality of power units without noise. In particular, provided is a cooking device for determining one operating frequency, based on operating frequencies of the plurality of power units overlapped on a location where a container is placed, and controlling an operation of a power unit by using the determined operating frequency.