Removable control system for a heating coil or cooktop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooktop appliances lack effective temperature-based control systems, relying on indirect power input measurements for cooking temperature, which can be expensive and not easily retrofitted, and often do not include features for adjusting heat output based on detected temperature.
Innovation Solution
A separable control assembly for cooktop appliances that includes a support body, device controller, temperature sensor, and coil receptacle, allowing for direct temperature measurement and responsive power adjustment to maintain a target cooking temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a temperature sensor and temperature-based control system are installed during original assembly, then temperature control precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is divided into modular components: a separable control assembly that can be independently installed and removed. This includes a control module with temperature sensor, coil receptacle, and power control circuitry that interfaces with the heating coil through standardized connectors, allowing temperature control functionality to be added without redesigning the entire appliance
Solution Approach 2:
A temperature sensor is introduced as an intermediary element between the heating coil and the control system. The sensor provides direct temperature feedback to the control module, enabling precise temperature measurement and closed-loop control without requiring complex indirect measurement systems
2Measurement precision
If a temperature sensor and temperature-based control system are installed during original assembly, then cooking temperature control is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is provided as a separable, pre-assembled module that can be independently manufactured and then installed in the appliance. This modular approach allows for standardized production of the control assembly with integrated temperature sensor and electronics, reducing overall manufacturing costs compared to custom integration
Solution Approach 2:
The control assembly is designed as a replaceable module that can be easily removed and replaced if malfunctioning. This design reduces the risk of expensive repairs and allows for cost-effective updates or upgrades without replacing entire appliance components
3Adaptability or versatility
If a separable control assembly is used, then adaptability and ease of installation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control assembly is designed with universal interfaces including standardized electrical connectors for the heating coil and mounting mechanisms that can be attached to various appliance types. The coil receptacle and connector design allows the same control module to work with different heating coil configurations, enhancing versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is separated into independent functional modules: a control module containing electronics and temperature sensor, a coil receptacle for mounting the heating element, and standardized connectors for electrical interfacing. This segmentation simplifies installation and removal while managing the inherent complexity through modular organization
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
Enables precise temperature control of cooking utensils by using a temperature sensor to adjust power to the electric heating coil, improving cooking efficiency and flexibility without requiring expensive initial installations.
Implementation Method 1
Some cooktop appliances employ a temperature sensor to directly measure the temperature of a cooking utensil or articles contained within the cooking utensil
Implementation Method 2
one or more electric (e.g., resistive) heating coils is provided to output heat
Data Source
AI summary
A separable control assembly may include a support body, a device controller, a coil receptacle, and one or more male connector terminals. The support body may be attachable to the cooktop appliance. The device controller may be mounted to the support body. The coil receptacle may be mounted to the support body in electrical communication with the device controller. The coil receptacle may include one or more female connectors mounted to the support body and configured to receive one or more male coil terminals of the electric heating coil. The one or more male connector terminals may be mounted to the support body in electrical communication with the device controller to connect to a power receptacle.