L-Shaped Steam Generator with Extruded Profile for Limestone Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steam generators for household appliances are not efficient in heat exchange and limestone removal, leading to reduced performance and maintenance requirements.
Innovation Solution
A steam generator with bent arms of different lengths, optimized heating element coverage, and an extruded aluminum conduit design that allows for efficient heat transfer and limestone removal, featuring a specific angle and inner profile for enhanced performance and adaptation to appliance shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a conventional linear flow-type generator is used, then the device structure is simple, but the heat exchange efficiency is low and limestone removal is ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by designing the flow-type generator with bent arms instead of a linear configuration. The conduit forms a bent shape with multiple arms extending in different directions, increasing the surface area for heat exchange and improving steam generation efficiency while maintaining ease of manufacture through extrusion processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional linear generator to a multi-dimensional bent structure with arms extending in different spatial directions. This dimensional change allows the generator to better adapt to the three-dimensional space within household appliances and increases heat exchange surface area without proportionally increasing volume
2Use of energy by moving object
If the conduit is made longer to increase energy transmission, then more energy can be transmitted into the fluid, but the device occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
The bent arm configuration allows the conduit to pack more length into a smaller volume by utilizing spatial curvature. The arms bend at specific angles to maximize the heated path length within the available appliance space, thereby increasing energy transmission without proportionally increasing the device's external dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
By extending arms in multiple spatial directions rather than in a single linear path, the generator utilizes three-dimensional space more efficiently. This allows longer conduit length for energy transmission while maintaining a compact overall device volume that fits within household appliance constraints
3Productivity
If heating elements cover the entire conduit surface, then heat exchange efficiency is maximized, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning heating elements to cover specific critical sections of the bent arms rather than uniformly covering the entire conduit surface. The heating elements are strategically placed on the outer surfaces of the bent arms where heat exchange is most effective, optimizing heat transfer while simplifying manufacturing and assembly
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 steam generator achieves increased energy transmission, improved heat exchange efficiency, and reduced maintenance needs due to effective limestone removal, resulting in a compact, energy-efficient, and robust household appliance.
Implementation Method 1
a heating element (560) arranged to heat the water in the conduit (501)
Implementation Method 2
By introducing water or steam into the cooking cavity of a steam oven in order to create special food cooking conditions
Implementation Method 3
a steam generator with a conduit (501) for water flow, having a first bent arm (502) and a second bent arm (504)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The present invention discloses a steam generator for a steam oven in particular used to evaporate water for the purpose of food preparation. The configuration in an L-shape combined with an inner profile maximizing the heat transfer surface increases the power density and facilitates limestone removal during heating and cooling of the steam generator (500). The configuration acts as a natural drain for debris that is generated during operation. By mounting the longer arm (502)of an L-shaped steam generator in a horizontal position and corresponding dimensioning of the heat transfer area, optimum conditions for household appliances can be achieved. A support structure (530) fixes the steam generator (500) in such a position in the household appliance (600).