Immersed Induction Water Heater for Scale-Free Heat Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electric water heaters face inefficiencies due to scaling issues and are not compatible with intelligent energy management systems, particularly in the context of green energy production and storage.
Innovation Solution
An induction heating device is integrated into the water heater, comprising a power generator and an inductive module with an inductor and load immersed in the water, which generates a magnetic field to heat the water directly, reducing scaling and enabling efficient energy transfer and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional electric resistance heating element is used, then the water heater can heat water, but scaling accumulates on the heating element reducing heat exchange efficiency and lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional electric resistance heating system with an induction heating system. The induction heating module uses electromagnetic fields to generate eddy currents in a conductive load (the water itself or a conductive element in contact with water), which generates heat through resistive heating of the water rather than through direct contact between a heating element and water. This eliminates the scaling problem because there is no heating element surface for scale to accumulate on, thereby maintaining heat exchange efficiency while improving reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a thermostat-controlled resistance heating system is used, then the water heater operates simply, but it is incompatible with intelligent energy management systems and green energy integration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic control system that replaces the simple on/off thermostat with an intelligent controller capable of communicating with external energy management systems. The controller can receive signals from green energy sources (such as photovoltaic panels or wind turbines) and adjust the induction heating operation accordingly, enabling the water heater to store excess renewable energy as hot water. This dynamic adaptability allows integration with intelligent energy systems while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the heating element is placed in direct contact with water, then heat exchange is efficient, but scaling accumulates on the heating element surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the physical heating element that contacts water by using induction heating technology. The induction heating module generates an electromagnetic field that induces eddy currents in a conductive load (either the water directly or a conductive element), and the resulting heat is transferred to the water without requiring a heating element surface in contact with water. This substitution maintains efficient heat transfer while eliminating the scaling problem entirely.
4Reliability
If a sheath is added to protect the heating element from scaling, then the heating element is protected, but the sheath itself becomes scaled and heat transfer deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the sheath component entirely by replacing the resistance heating system with an induction heating system. Since induction heating does not require a heating element in contact with water, there is no need for a protective sheath. The electromagnetic field penetrates the water and generates heat directly within the water or a conductive load, eliminating both the heating element and sheath, thereby preventing scaling accumulation and maintaining heat transfer efficiency.
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 enhances heat exchange efficiency, reduces scaling, and allows for precise temperature regulation and energy management, making it compatible with intelligent energy systems and green energy integration.
Implementation Method 1
an inductor configured to generate a magnetic field to heat the water directly
Implementation Method 2
an inductive module with an inductor and load immersed in the water, which generates a magnetic field to heat the water directly
Implementation Method 3
an inductive module with an inductor and load immersed in the water, which generates a magnetic field to heat the water directly
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The present invention concerns a device for the induction heating of a water heater and a water heater provided with such a device. The water heater (8) is characterised in that the heating means (2, 4, 5, 7) comprise a power generator (7) and an inductive module formed from at least one inductor (2) and at least one load, the inductor (2) being configured to generate a current induced in the load, the inductor (2) and at least one load being submerged in the volume of water to be heated. Application in the field of domestic or professional water heaters.