Induction Heating Shield Structure for Electromagnetic Leakage Control
Solution Overview
Problem
Induction heating systems for vapor generating devices face issues with electromagnetic field leakage, leading to inefficiencies and potential damage from excessive heat.
Innovation Solution
The induction heating assembly incorporates a ferrimagnetic, non-electrically conductive first electromagnetic shield layer and an electrically conductive second shield layer, along with an insulating layer, to minimize field leakage and suppress current flow, resulting in a compact, efficient, and lightweight design that reduces energy losses and heat generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If an induction heating system is used to heat the vaporisable substance, then better control of heating and vapour generation is achieved, but electromagnetic field leakage occurs causing energy loss and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces electromagnetic shield layers as intermediary components between the induction coil and the external environment. These shield layers (comprising ferrimagnetic material, electrically conductive material, and insulating material) act as mediators that redirect and contain the electromagnetic field within the heating compartment, preventing leakage while allowing the induction heating function to operate effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic shield structure uses composite materials comprising multiple layers with different properties: ferrimagnetic material for magnetic shielding, electrically conductive material for electromagnetic shielding, and insulating material with specific magnetic permeability. This composite structure optimizes both heating control and energy containment by leveraging the complementary properties of different materials.
2Loss of energy
If electromagnetic shield layers are added to reduce field leakage, then energy loss is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic shield layers serve multiple functions simultaneously: they shield against electromagnetic field leakage, provide thermal insulation, and guide electromagnetic field distribution. By integrating these multiple functions into a single shield structure, the patent reduces overall device complexity compared to using separate components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs thin film electromagnetic shield layers that can be configured in flexible arrangements around the induction coil and heating compartment. These thin film structures provide effective shielding without adding significant bulk or structural complexity, allowing for compact and adaptable device design.
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 enhances electromagnetic energy transfer to the susceptor, improves heating efficiency, reduces device temperature, and protects components from overheating, while maintaining optimal electromagnetic field coupling for effective vapor generation.
Implementation Method 1
a first electromagnetic shield layer arranged outward of the induction coil; wherein the first electromagnetic shield layer comprises a ferrimagnetic, non-electrically conductive material
Implementation Method 2
a second electromagnetic shield layer arranged outward of the first electromagnetic shield layer; wherein the second electromagnetic shield layer comprises an electrically conductive material
Implementation Method 3
Current flow in the one or more electromagnetic shield layers is suppressed which reduces heat generation in the shield structure (due to Joule heating)
Implementation Method 4
a first insulating layer positioned between the induction coil and the electromagnetic shield layer, the first insulating layer comprising a material which is substantially non-electrically conductive and has a relative magnetic permeability substantially equal to 1
Implementation Method 5
Electrical energy is provided to the inductor when a user activates the device which in turn generates an alternating electromagnetic field
Implementation Method 6
The susceptor couples with the electromagnetic field and generates heat
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5
AI summary
An induction heating assembly (22) for a vapour generating device (10) comprises an induction coil (32) and a heating compartment (24) arranged to receive an induction heatable cartridge (26). A first electromagnetic shield layer (36) is arranged outward of the induction coil (32) and a second electromagnetic shield layer (46) is arranged outward of the first electromagnetic shield layer (36). The first and second electromagnetic shield layers (36, 46) differ in one or both of their electrical conductivity and their magnetic permeability.