Induction Hob Control Loop for Stable Power Under Coupling Changes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Induction hobs experience significant power losses due to periodic power interruptions caused by changes in the coupling conditions between the induction coil and cookware, which can lead to reduced lifetime of switching elements and increased power losses.

Innovation Solution

A control loop method is implemented to detect coupling changes between the induction coil and cookware, using frequency and power information to calculate relation coefficients, allowing for adaptive adjustment of operating parameters without interrupting power provision, thereby minimizing power losses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If periodic power interruptions are implemented to measure coupling characteristics and adapt off-time, then the coupling conditions are monitored and switching element protection is ensured, but significant power losses occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching element protectionVSAvoidpower losses
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements continuous power delivery to the induction coil without periodic interruptions. The control entity continuously monitors coupling characteristics during active power delivery and dynamically adjusts the off-time parameter in real-time, eliminating the need to stop power provision for measurements. This maintains continuous heating while adapting to changing coupling conditions, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliability monitoring and energy loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a feedback mechanism where the control entity continuously receives coupling information during active power delivery, processes this information to determine optimal off-time values, and adjusts the switching element parameters accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system enables real-time adaptation without interrupting power flow, allowing the system to maintain switching element protection while avoiding the energy losses associated with periodic power interruptions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Duration of action of stationary object

If off-time is extended to avoid damages at switching elements, then switching element lifetime is improved, but power delivery continuity is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching element lifetimeVSAvoidpower delivery continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically adjusts the off-time parameter based on real-time coupling conditions rather than using a fixed extended off-time. The control entity continuously monitors coupling characteristics and adapts the off-time value to the minimum required for switching element protection, reducing unnecessary idle time while ensuring element safety. This dynamic adjustment maintains switching element lifetime without excessively reducing power delivery continuity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the off-time parameter adaptively based on coupling conditions. Instead of using a conservative fixed off-time that reduces productivity, the system adjusts this parameter in real-time according to actual coupling characteristics, allowing shorter off-times when coupling is good and longer off-times when coupling degrades, thereby optimizing both switching element protection and power delivery continuity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

The method effectively detects minor coupling changes, reducing unnecessary power interruptions and maintaining stable power delivery to the cookware, thus extending the lifespan of switching elements and optimizing energy efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

induction coil placed below a hob plate in order to heat a piece of cookware

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

heating a piece of cookware by induction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInduction heating: Induction Heating

Data Source

PatentUS12532385B2Method for operating an induction hob and induction hob
Publication Date: 2026.01.20 ELECTROLUX APPLIANCES
  • US12532385B2 patent drawing
  • US12532385B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An engine pylon that is used for supporting an engine on a main wing, the pylon including a first drain that is configured to discharge a flammable liquid leaking from a pipe provided within a predetermined region in the pylon into outside air from inside of the predetermined region; and a ventilation path configured to bring the inside of the predetermined region into communication with the outside air. The engine pylon includes a pylon body and a pylon fairing that covers the pylon body. The pylon body includes at least an upper pylon and a lower pylon that project forward from a front spar of the main wing. The predetermined region is defined by the pylon fairing and the upper pylon. The ventilation path is provided in the upper pylon and the pylon fairing that covers the upper pylon.