Induction Cooktop Variable Power Density Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooktop devices lack flexibility in heating modes and comfort for operators, as they often require fixed heating power densities regardless of cooking utensil position, limiting user control and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A hob device with a control unit that operates multiple cooking utensils in different heating modes, including a power move heating mode where heating power density changes based on utensil position, and a normal heating mode with constant power density, using a matrix of induction heating elements to cover a variable cooking surface area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If fixed heating power density is used regardless of cookware position, then device complexity is reduced, but operator comfort and cooking efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the heating power density variable rather than fixed. The control unit dynamically adjusts the heating power density based on the detected position of the cookware within the cooking zone, transitioning from a static system to a dynamic one that adapts to changing conditions during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the control unit that continuously detects cookware position and uses this information to adjust the heating power density. This closed-loop feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically adapt to cookware placement variations, improving operator comfort without requiring manual intervention.
2Productivity
If heating power density varies with cookware position, then cooking efficiency and operator comfort improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies self-service by automatically detecting cookware position and adjusting heating power density without requiring operator intervention. The control unit autonomously monitors and adapts the heating parameters, allowing the system to serve itself and eliminating the need for manual adjustments by the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of heating power density from a fixed value to a variable parameter that depends on cookware position. This parameter change enables the system to optimize cooking efficiency by adapting the heating intensity to the actual thermal conditions created by different cookware placements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple heating modes are provided, then versatility and operator comfort improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single heating zone that can operate in multiple heating modes (first heating mode with position-dependent power density and second heating mode with fixed power density). This multi-functional capability allows the system to adapt to different cooking requirements without requiring separate dedicated zones for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamics to allow switching between different heating modes based on operational requirements. The control unit can dynamically transition between the first heating mode (with position-based power density adjustment) and the second heating mode (with fixed power density), providing flexibility while maintaining a unified heating zone structure.
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
This configuration provides high comfort and flexibility for operators by allowing intuitive adjustment of heating power density and mode selection, enhancing cooking efficiency and user satisfaction.
Implementation Method 1
at least one heating element is designed as an induction heating element and is preferably configured to generate an alternating electromagnetic field, particularly with a frequency between 20 kHz and 100 kHz, which is specifically designed to be converted into heat in a stationary, particularly metallic, preferably ferromagnetic, cooking vessel base by means of eddy current induction and/or remagnetization effects
Implementation Method 2
converted into heat in a stationary, particularly metallic, preferably ferromagnetic, cooking vessel base by means of eddy current induction and/or remagnetization effects
Implementation Method 3
at least one heating element is designed as an induction heating element
Data Source
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AI summary
To provide a generic device with improved user comfort, a cooktop device, in particular an induction cooktop device, is proposed, comprising at least two heating elements (12a-b) defining a variable cooking area (14a-b) and a control unit (16a-b). When used with at least two cooking vessels (18a-b, 20a-b, 22b) in the variable cooking area (14a-b), the control unit (16a-b) is designed in at least one operating state to operate a first cooking vessel (18a-b) of the at least two cooking vessels (18a-b, 20a-b, 22b) in a power-move heating mode. In this mode, the control unit (16a-b) is designed to heat the first cooking vessel (18a-b) with different heating power densities depending on its position in the variable cooking area (14a-b). heat, and a second cooking vessel (20a-b) of at least two cooking vessels (18a-b,20a-b, 22b) to operate in a normal heating mode.