Removable handle comprising a thermoelectric generator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing removable handles for cooking vessels and lids with built-in thermoelectric generators face issues with mechanical play leading to diminished heat exchange and reduced electricity output over time, making them less efficient for powering electronic functions.
Innovation Solution
A handle with a releasable locking device and a thermoelectric generator connected to a thermal coupler and heat sink, featuring heat conductive fins or a latent heat sink, ensures consistent and reliable electricity supply by maintaining efficient heat exchange, even after repeated use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the handle is made removable for easier storage and versatility, then storage convenience and adaptability are improved, but mechanical play develops over time leading to diminished heat exchange and reduced electricity output
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device transitions between locked and unlocked positions dynamically, ensuring the handle can be easily removed and reattached. When locked, the device maintains firm contact between the thermal coupler and the cooking vessel surface, eliminating mechanical play and ensuring reliable heat exchange throughout repeated use cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal coupler acts as an intermediary component that transfers heat from the cooking vessel to the thermoelectric generator. The locking device ensures this intermediary maintains consistent, play-free contact with the vessel surface, preserving heat exchange efficiency while allowing handle removal for storage.
2Power
If the thermoelectric generator is pressed firmly against the cooking vessel for efficient heat exchange, then electricity output is improved, but the handle becomes harder to remove and reattach
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device provides dynamic control over the clamping force applied to the thermal coupler. In the locked position, sufficient pressure is maintained to eliminate mechanical play and ensure efficient heat exchange for high electricity output. When unlocked, the device releases the handle for easy removal and reattachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device automatically maintains the optimal clamping force on the thermal coupler once engaged, ensuring consistent heat exchange efficiency without requiring continuous user adjustment. The device self-regulates to balance firm contact for power generation with ease of operation when unlocked.
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 provides a self-sufficient and reliable power source for electronic functions in cooking vessels and lids, maintaining efficient heat exchange and electricity production over time, capable of powering devices like electronic displays and sensors.
Implementation Method 1
a thermoelectric generator, to power an electronic temperature indication system situated in the handle. When the frying pans are heated, a heat flow is created. The thermoelectric generator uses this heat flow to produce the electricity necessary for the electronic indication system to function.
Implementation Method 2
the thermoelectric generator comprises at least one first contact surface thermally connected to a thermal coupler that is placed under pressure against a section of the cooking vessel or lid
Implementation Method 3
a heat sink connected thermally to the connection part or to the second contact surface of the thermoelectric generator
Implementation Method 4
it is in the shape of a metal radiator comprising fins that stand vertically
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a handle for a cooking vessel or lid that includes at least one thermoelectric generator. The invention is characterized in that the handle has a releasable locking device and the thermoelectric generator has at least one first contact surface thermally connected to a thermal coupling part that comes into contact under stress with a portion of the cooking vessel or lid when the releasable locking device of the handle is in a locked position on the cooking vessel or lid.