Induction Cooktop Heating Zone Control for Container Displacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Induction hobs with automatic detection of containers lack effective control to prevent unwanted heating of containers or incompatible objects when a container is moved, leading to heating of unintended items such as container lids.
Innovation Solution
A method for controlling inductors in an induction hob that involves detecting initial and new heating zones, requiring user confirmation for new objects detected within a predetermined time frame to avoid unwanted heating, and applying initial heating zone parameters to new zones under user supervision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If automatic detection of container movement is implemented, then the convenience of operation is improved, but unwanted heating of incompatible objects occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting container movement and pre-defining a new heating zone before the user confirms. The control means detects when a container is moved to a new position, defines the new heating zone based on the container's new position, and waits for user confirmation before activating heating. This preliminary definition allows the system to be ready to heat the correct zone while giving the user a chance to prevent unwanted heating of incompatible objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback by monitoring the heating zone activation status and container position in real-time. When a container is detected in a new position, the system provides visual or audible feedback to indicate the detected heating zone, and waits for user confirmation. This feedback loop allows the user to verify that the correct zone is selected and to prevent unwanted heating of incompatible objects like lids or containers not intended for heating.
2Productivity
If new heating zones are automatically defined after container movement, then the productivity is improved, but heating of unintended objects occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The control means performs preliminary action by automatically defining the new heating zone based on the container's detected position immediately after movement. This preliminary definition maintains productivity by quickly preparing the heating zone parameters. However, the system then pauses for user confirmation before activating heating, ensuring reliability by allowing the user to verify that the correct zone is selected and not an unintended object.
3Reliability
If user confirmation is required for new heating zones, then heating accuracy is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically detecting container movement and defining the new heating zone parameters before user confirmation. This reduces the user's workload by pre-computing the correct heating zone based on container position, making the confirmation step simple rather than requiring complex user input. The user only needs to confirm or cancel, rather than manually defining the zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-service by automatically defining the heating zone parameters based on container position detection. The control means independently determines the new heating zone location, size, and power settings without requiring user input for these parameters. The user only needs to provide simple confirmation, making the process easier while maintaining high accuracy.
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
Prevents unwanted heating of containers or incompatible objects by ensuring user confirmation for new heating zones, maintaining consistent heating conditions for intended containers and avoiding heating of unintended items.
Implementation Method 1
each inductor (2) being powered by an inverter power supply device... said inductors forming means for heating a container
Implementation Method 2
said inductors forming means for heating a container and means for detecting the presence of a container
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The method involves searching a new heating zone (Z3) of a subset of induction units (2) partially covered by an object. The induction units are not assigned to an initial heating zone (Z2) if the new heating zone of the induction units is detected in a period of time greater than a predetermined time value. The new heating zone is operated with an operating parameter of the initial heating zone. Displacement of a container associated with the initial heating zone is detected. An independent claim is also included for an induction cooktop comprising controlling units for controlling operation of a set of induction units.