Magnetic Hob Edge Control for Compact Cooktop Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hob devices lack efficiency, compact design, and ease of use, particularly in terms of space utilization and user-friendly operation, with existing solutions not effectively addressing the need for a high-efficiency, space-saving, and user-friendly control mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A hob device with a control element and functional bearing unit that exerts a magnetic main fastening force along the hob's outer edge, allowing for a compact design with the control element partially covering the edge, and featuring a fastening element integrated with the hob plate, actuating elements, and a sensor unit for flexible operation and easy cleanability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the control element is mounted displaceably along the hob outer edge with magnetic fastening, then the device achieves compact design and high efficiency, but the control element requires precise positioning and stable magnetic attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, clips, or adhesive mounting) with a magnetic fastening system. The functional bearing unit uses magnetic attraction forces to securely hold the control element along the hob outer edge, eliminating complex mechanical assembly requirements while enabling easy displacement and repositioning of the control element for cleaning or adjustment purposes
Solution Approach 2:
The control element is designed to be displaceable along the hob outer edge rather than fixed at a single position. This dynamic mounting allows the control element to be moved to different locations on the hob periphery, providing operational flexibility and enabling access to cooking zones from multiple positions, thereby improving overall device efficiency
2Area of stationary object
If the control element partially covers the hob outer edge, then space utilization is improved, but the control element design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control element is designed to extend partially over the hob outer edge in a horizontal dimension, utilizing the peripheral space along the hob's circumference. This dimensional extension allows the control element to cover and protect the edge area while maintaining access to cooking zones, effectively using previously wasted peripheral space without significantly complicating the control element's internal structure
Solution Approach 2:
The control element serves multiple functions: it provides control operations for cooking zones, covers and protects the hob outer edge, and acts as a mounting surface for the magnetic fastening system. By integrating these functions into a single component, the design achieves improved space utilization without proportionally increasing overall device complexity
3Volume of moving object
If the control element is mounted at a lower height than the cooking zone top, then a space-saving design is achieved, but the control element may interfere with cookware placement
Solution Approach 1:
The control element is positioned at a lower height that mirrors or copies the contour of the hob outer edge, creating a stepped configuration. This allows the control element to occupy lower peripheral space without protruding into the cooking zone volume, thereby achieving space-saving design while avoiding interference with cookware placement on the cooking surfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The control element is positioned at a lower height specifically at the peripheral regions where it mounts to the hob outer edge, while the central cooking zones maintain their full height and volume. This localized height variation optimizes space utilization at the edges without compromising the cooking space in the center, preventing interference with cookware
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 solution achieves high efficiency, compact design, and user-friendly operation by enabling the control element to be mounted displaceably along the hob's edge with a magnetic fastening force, allowing for space-saving integration into worktops and easy removal without tools, enhancing usability and cleanability.
Implementation Method 1
the functional bearing unit is intended to do so, at least in the operating state with respect to at least one direction to exert a magnetic main fastening force on the first control element
Data Source
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AI summary
The hob device comprises an operating element (10) and a function storage unit (12). The operating element is operatively coupled in sliding manner with respect to the outer edge (14) of the hob device. The control element exerts a primary magnetic fastening force to the operating element such that the magnetic fastening force is partially applied to the hob's outer edge. An independent claim is included for operating method of hob device.