Power module and cooking appliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing induction cooking hobs lack flexibility in heating zone configuration, requiring separate modules for fixed and adjustable heating zones, which increases production and storage costs.
Innovation Solution
A power module with adaptive configuration capabilities, allowing operation in both master and slave modes, enabling flexible usage in common induction hobs with fixed or adjustable heating zones by using a single communication bus and software configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate modules are used for fixed and adjustable heating zones, then the heating zone configuration is specialized, but the production and storage costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power module is designed with multi-functionality to operate in both fixed heating zone mode and adjustable heating zone mode. The module contains a master-slave control mechanism where one power module can function as a master controller while others function as slaves, allowing the same hardware to adapt to different cooking configurations without requiring separate specialized modules for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic configuration capability where power modules can switch between master and slave roles based on real-time cooking needs. The adjustable heating zone mode allows users to dynamically define cooking areas by selecting individual heating elements, while the fixed zone mode provides stable predetermined configurations. This dynamic adaptability eliminates the need for multiple specialized module types.
2Ease of operation
If a central controller is used to manage multiple power modules, then the control structure is centralized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control function is segmented and distributed across multiple power modules rather than being concentrated in a single central controller. Each power module contains its own controller that can independently manage heating elements. The master-slave mechanism allows one module to coordinate others when needed, but each module retains autonomous capability, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Each power module is designed to be self-sufficient with its own integrated controller, eliminating the need for a separate central controller. The modules can autonomously manage their heating elements and communicate with each other through the master-slave mechanism. This self-service capability reduces device complexity by removing redundant control hardware while maintaining operational simplicity.
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 reduces manufacturing costs and enhances flexibility in using the power module across different induction hob configurations, eliminating the need for a central controller and simplifying communication between modules.
Implementation Method 1
the induction coil is coupled with electronic driving means of a heating power unit, preferably of a heating frequency unit, for driving an AC current through the induction coil. Said AC current generates a time varying magnetic field. Due to the inductive coupling between the induction coil and the piece of cookware placed above the induction coil, the magnetic field generated by the induction coil causes eddy currents circulating in the piece of food or cookware. The presence of said eddy currents generates heat within the piece of food or cookware due to the electrical resistance of said piece of food or cookware.
Implementation Method 2
the magnetic field generated by the induction coil causes eddy currents circulating in the piece of food or cookware
Implementation Method 3
The presence of said eddy currents generates heat within the piece of food or cookware due to the electrical resistance of said piece of food or cookware.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a power module, preferably induction module for powering one, two, three, four, at least one, at least two, at least three or at least four heating element (s), preferably electrical, radiant and/or induction heating elements, more preferably induction coils (3), of a cooking appliance, preferably a cooking hob, more preferably a radiant or induction hob (1), the power module (10) at least comprising: —one, two or at least two heating power units (11), in particular three or at least three heating power units, more in particular four or at least four heating power units, preferably heating frequency units and/or induction generators (11), each for providing power, in particular electrical power, to one, two, three, at least one, at least two or at least three heating elements (3); —one or at least one controller (12) for controlling the heating power unit(s) (11); —a communication interface (13) for coupling the power module (10) with one or at least one user interface (5); —wherein, in particular in a first configuration mode, the power module (10) is adapted to be operated either according to a master module configuration or a slave module configuration and/or—wherein, in particular in a second configuration mode, the power module (10) is configured to directly communicate with the at least one user interface, a corresponding cooking appliance as well as a corresponding method for operating a cooking appliance.