Induction Hob Circuit Arrangement for Dynamic Frequency Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing induction hobs lack flexibility and efficiency in heating distribution, often resulting in inefficient energy use and potential overheating of frequency units, along with issues like intermodulation noise and flicker.
Innovation Solution
The induction hob device incorporates multiple heating elements connected to various frequency units via a circuit arrangement that can dynamically switch between different operating modes based on the type and placement of cooking utensils, utilizing a control unit to manage energy distribution and resonance units for enhanced efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If multiple heating elements are connected to a limited number of frequency units, then device complexity is reduced, but heating flexibility and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching capability that allows each heating element to be flexibly assigned to different frequency units based on real-time cooking needs. The circuit arrangement enables dynamic reconfiguration of connections between heating elements and frequency units, transforming a static system into a dynamic one that adapts to varying heating requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Each heating element is designed to be universally compatible with multiple frequency units through the switching arrangement. The system allows any heating element to receive power from any available frequency unit, creating a multi-functional configuration where components can serve multiple purposes depending on the cooking situation.
2Device complexity
If heating elements are permanently assigned to specific frequency units, then circuit arrangement is simplified, but heating efficiency and load distribution worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The switching arrangement enables dynamic load distribution where heating elements can be reassigned to different frequency units based on current demand. This dynamic capability allows the system to optimize heating efficiency by matching available frequency units with heating elements that need power, rather than being constrained by permanent assignments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters by allowing flexible reconfiguration of electrical connections. The switching arrangement modifies the circuit topology dynamically, changing which heating elements are connected to which frequency units based on real-time conditions, thereby optimizing heating efficiency without permanently complicating the circuit design.
3Productivity
If frequency units operate at high power density, then heating speed is improved, but overheating and reliability issues worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The switching arrangement enables dynamic load balancing across multiple frequency units. When one frequency unit approaches overheating thresholds, the system can dynamically switch heating elements to other available frequency units, distributing the thermal load and preventing any single unit from overheating while maintaining high overall heating capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching arrangement acts as an intermediary that mediates between the heating elements and frequency units. It provides a buffer that allows the system to manage power distribution intelligently, preventing direct overload of individual frequency units while maintaining high heating speed through coordinated operation of multiple units.
4Adaptability or versatility
If heating elements are operated at different frequencies simultaneously, then heating flexibility is improved, but intermodulation noise and flicker worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The switching arrangement implements periodic operation where heating elements are systematically cycled through different frequency units in a controlled sequence. This periodic switching pattern allows the system to achieve flexible heating operation while managing frequency conflicts by systematically alternating between different frequency assignments, reducing intermodulation noise through regular, predictable switching cycles.
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 achieves high flexibility and heating efficiency, preventing overheating, reducing noise and flicker, and allowing for faster heating processes while maintaining comfort and power density.
Implementation Method 1
The induction heating element is specifically designed to convert electrical energy into an alternating magnetic field, which is intended to induce eddy currents and/or remagnetization effects in a metallic, preferably at least partially ferromagnetic, cooking vessel, which are then converted into heat
Implementation Method 2
The heating element is designed to transmit a power of at least 100 W, particularly at least 500 W, advantageously at least 1000 W, and preferably at least 2000 W
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention proceeds from a hob apparatus (10a-b), in particular an induction hob apparatus, having at least five heating elements (12a-b, 14a-b, 16a-b, 8a-b, 20a-b, 22a-b, 24a-b, 26a-b, 28a-b, 30a-b) at least for heating cookware which is placed on said hob apparatus, and having at least two heating frequency units (32a-b, 34a-b, 36a-b, 38a-b), at least two of the heating elements (12a-b, 14a-b, 16a-b, 18a-b, 20a-b, 22a-b, 24a-b, 26a-b) being associated with each of said heating frequency units. In order to provide an apparatus of the generic type with improved properties in respect of a high degree of flexibility and/or a high degree of efficiency, it is proposed that the hob apparatus (10a-b) has at least one circuit arrangement (40a-b) which is intended to connect at least a further one of the heating elements (28a-b, 30a-b) to different heating frequency units (32a-b, 34a-b, 36a-b, 38a-b) in different operating modes