Induction Heating Electronic Systems Using Ferromagnetic Materials
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermal solutions are inefficient and ineffective for maintaining the operation of electronic systems in extreme cold temperatures, particularly in automotive applications where rapid temperature ramp-up is critical for functional performance.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of induction heating using ferromagnetic materials and inductor coils to generate a rapidly alternating magnetic field, allowing for efficient and rapid heating of electronic devices with reduced power consumption and minimal interference with cooling systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If conventional thermal solutions (heatsinks, resistive heating) are used, then cooling efficiency is maintained, but heating efficiency in extreme cold temperatures is ineffective and slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional resistive heating (Joule heating) with induction heating technology. The induction heating system uses an alternating magnetic field generated by a coil to induce eddy currents in a ferromagnetic material, which then generates heat through hysteresis and resistive losses. This substitution provides much faster heating rates and higher efficiency compared to conventional resistive heating, directly addressing the slow temperature ramp-up problem in extreme cold conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the heating mechanism from resistive heating to induction heating by introducing a ferromagnetic material and an alternating magnetic field source. This parameter change in the heating method enables rapid temperature achievement while maintaining compatibility with existing thermal management systems. The ferromagnetic material's magnetic properties are utilized to convert electromagnetic energy into thermal energy efficiently.
2Temperature
If conventional resistive heating is used, then heating can be achieved, but power consumption is high and heating efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional resistive heating with induction heating, which uses electromagnetic fields to directly induce currents in the ferromagnetic material. This method is significantly more efficient because the heating occurs directly within the target material rather than through thermal conduction from a heating element, reducing energy losses and power consumption while achieving the same or better heating results.
Solution Approach 2:
The ferromagnetic material acts as an intermediary that converts electromagnetic energy from the induction coil into thermal energy. This intermediary approach allows for more efficient energy transfer and conversion compared to direct resistive heating, as the magnetic field can penetrate and induce currents throughout the material volume, achieving uniform and efficient heating with lower power consumption.
3Temperature
If heating elements are added to thermal solutions, then heating capability is provided, but cooling performance is impeded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces contact-based resistive heating elements with contactless induction heating. The induction coil generates an alternating magnetic field that penetrates the ferromagnetic material without physical contact, allowing the thermal solution (heatsink) to remain intact and functional for both heating and cooling operations. This eliminates the conflict between heating elements and cooling performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The ferromagnetic material integrated into the thermal solution serves dual functions: it enables rapid heating through induction heating when an alternating magnetic field is applied, and it maintains effective thermal conduction for cooling when the field is removed or reversed. This multi-functionality allows a single component to provide both heating and cooling capabilities without compromising either function.
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 approach enables electronic systems to achieve operational temperatures quickly and efficiently, meeting the requirements for automotive applications by providing faster and more uniform heating with improved power delivery efficiency compared to conventional resistive heating methods.
Implementation Method 1
ferromagnetic material for induction heating
Implementation Method 2
inductor coils surrounding the electronic device at least in part to generate the alternating magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are generally directed to extended temperature operation for electronic systems using induction heating. An embodiment of an apparatus includes an electronic device including: a die or package; a thermal solution coupled with the die or package for cooling of the die or package; and ferromagnetic material, wherein the ferromagnetic material is to generate induction heating of the die or package in response to an alternating magnetic field.