Induction Hob Zone Linking via Frequency Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing induction cooking hobs lack flexibility in combining heating zones and often produce acoustic noise due to differing frequencies of the generators for linked zones.
Innovation Solution
An induction cooking hob with four heating zones, where each zone has an induction coil connected to a generator, allowing flexible linking and control via a common microprocessor controller that synchronizes frequencies for noise reduction and efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple independent control devices are used for each heating zone, then each zone can be controlled independently, but the system complexity increases and information exchange between control devices is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single control device that can manage individual heating zones independently while also handling linked zone operations. This single controller integrates the functions that would otherwise require separate control devices, reducing system complexity while maintaining independent control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device is designed with universal functionality to handle both individual zone control and linked zone control. It can operate as multiple specialized controllers would, adapting its behavior based on whether zones are used independently or linked together, thereby eliminating the need for separate control devices.
2Ease of operation
If each heating zone has its own generator operating independently, then each zone can be controlled at different power levels, but acoustic noise arises due to different frequencies
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operating frequency parameter of generators based on linkage status. When zones are linked, the controller synchronizes generator frequencies to be identical, eliminating acoustic noise. When zones are independent, frequencies can differ to allow individual power control. This parameter adaptation resolves the contradiction between independent control and noise reduction.
3Ease of operation
If predetermined linkages are built into the system, then linked zones can be controlled with a single power setting, but the system is limited to fixed combinations
Solution Approach 1:
The system transforms fixed, static linkages into dynamic, reconfigurable linkages. Users can create and modify linkage combinations as needed, and the control system adapts its behavior in real-time based on the current linkage configuration. This dynamic approach maintains the simplicity of single-power-setting control while providing unlimited adaptability to different cooking scenarios.
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
Enables flexible and efficient control of linked heating zones without noise, allowing users to easily select combinations and maintain consistent power settings across linked zones, reducing complexity and mechanical wear on the interface.
Implementation Method 1
each heating zone comprises or corresponds with at least one induction coil, each induction coil is connected to a generator
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
The present invention relates to an induction cooking hob (10) with four heating zones (12, 14, 16, 18). Each heating zone (12, 14, 16, 18) comprises or corresponds with at least one induction coil connected to a generator. Two or more heating zones (12, 14, 16, 18) are linked or can be linked into a cooking area by a user. The linked heating zones (12, 14, 16, 18) are controlled by a common power setting. An operator interface is provided for operating the heating zones (12, 14, 16, 18). A control unit is provided for controlling the heating zones (12, 14, 16, 18). The operator interface includes actuating elements corresponding with predetermined links (20) between the heating zones (12, 14, 16, 18). The control unit is provided for synchronizing the generators of the linked heating zones (12, 14, 16, 18) by one common controller controlling the linked heating zones (12, 14, 16, 18) by a common power setting. The common controller is a microprocessor or a microcontroller and controls the generators of the linked heating zones (12, 14, 16, 18), so that the generators run at the same frequency. The induction cooking hob (10) includes a glass ceramic panel. The operator interface is a touch pad applied on the glass ceramic panel. The actuating elements corresponding with predetermined links (20) are labelled by symbols. The heating zones (12, 14, 16, 18) are arranged as a matrix on the induction cooking hob (10). A first heating zone (12) is arranged on the rear portion of left hand side of the cooking hob (10). A second heating zone (14) is arranged on the rear portion of right hand side of the cooking hob (10). A third heating zone (16) is arranged on the front portion of left hand side of the cooking hob (10). A fourth heating zone (18) is arranged on the front portion of right hand side of the cooking hob (10). The first heating zone (12) can be linked with the second heating zone (14), the third heating zone (16) and/or the fourth heating zone (18) to a larger cooking area.