Induction Hob Circuit Device Power Phase Merging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Circuit devices for induction cooking hobs face issues with high stand-by power consumption, complex EMI filters, and electrical insulation challenges due to multiple current and voltage phases, leading to increased component usage and operational complexity.
Innovation Solution
The circuit device employs multiple power units, each supplied by a different mains current phase, with frequency converting means and current conversion units that share output direct currents to reduce component count, simplify EMI filters, and enable electrical insulation, using printed circuit boards for efficient isolation and power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple current conversion units are used for each power phase, then reliable power conversion is achieved, but device complexity and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the current conversion function across multiple power phases by having the first current conversion unit supply output current to multiple second current conversion units on different power phases. This shared conversion approach reduces total component count while maintaining reliable power distribution across all phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The first current conversion unit serves multiple functions by providing power to both its own power phase and other power phases through the second current conversion units. This multi-functional design reduces the need for dedicated conversion units on each phase, simplifying the overall device.
2Reliability
If current conversion units operate continuously for reliability, then power availability is maintained, but stand-by power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables selective operation of current conversion units based on actual power demands. The first current conversion unit can be activated to supply power during standby or active modes, while second current conversion units on other phases can remain inactive when their respective phases require no power, reducing overall stand-by consumption while maintaining power availability when needed.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If separate EMI filters are used for each current phase, then electromagnetic interference protection is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates EMI filtering functionality by implementing a common first current conversion unit that handles electromagnetic interference for multiple power phases. This shared filtering approach reduces the total number of separate EMI filters needed while maintaining adequate protection across all phases.
4Adaptability or versatility
If different mains current phases are used for power units, then power distribution flexibility is improved, but electrical insulation requirements increase complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a common reference potential or neutral connection as an intermediary between power units on different mains current phases. This intermediary provides a standardized electrical reference that simplifies insulation requirements compared to completely isolated phase-to-phase connections, while still allowing flexible power distribution across multiple phases.
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 solution decreases stand-by power consumption, simplifies EMI filters, and enables electrical insulation, reducing the complexity of current conversion units and frequency converting means, while maintaining efficient power supply to induction elements.
Implementation Method 1
frequency converting means, each for supplying at least one induction element with electrical power to generate heating power
Implementation Method 2
current conversion unit for converting an input direct current or an input alternating current into one, at least one, two or at least two output direct currents
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a circuit device (1) for a cooking device, in particular cooking hob, more in particular induction cooking hob, comprising —at least two power units (P1, P2, . . . PN), each power unit supplied with electrical power by a different mains current phase (L1, L2, . . . LN) —wherein each power unit comprises frequency converting means (G11 . . . GNM), each for supplying at least one induction element with electrical power to generate heating power, •wherein each power unit comprises at least one current pot conversion unit (C1 . . . CN) for converting an input direct or alternating current into one, at least one, two or at least two output direct currents, •wherein each power unit comprises at least one load supplied or to be supplied with electrical power by the output direct current, an output direct current or the output direct currents from the current conversion unit, •wherein a first power unit (P11) comprises a first current conversion unit (C1), in particular for converting an alternating current from a first mains current phase (L1) into one, at least one, two or at least two first output direct currents, •wherein by the first output direct current or one of the first output direct currents of the first power unit (P1), at least a second current conversion unit (C2) of a second power unit (P2) is supplied for converting the first output direct current into one, at least one, two or at least two second output direct currents.