Single Power Source Induction Heating with Multi-Frequency Output

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing induction heating systems are large and expensive due to the need for multiple power sources with different frequencies, and they lack the ability to monitor output situations effectively, especially when using time-division multiplexing or superimposing methods.

Innovation Solution

The system employs a single power source system that outputs multiple frequencies, allowing for flexible frequency selection and monitoring. Each induction heating apparatus includes high-frequency and low-frequency current transformers connected in parallel with a heating coil, and a switching controller manages the power supply switches to connect the apparatuses to the appropriate power sources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple power sources with different frequencies are disposed for one induction heating apparatus, then induction heating with different frequencies can be performed, but the equipment becomes large in scale and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency selection capabilityVSAvoidsystem scale
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies a single power source system that can output multiple frequencies (first frequency and second frequency) to replace multiple dedicated power sources. The power source system includes a converter and inverter that can generate different frequencies, and switching sections that distribute power to induction heating apparatuses based on frequency requirements. This multi-functional approach reduces system scale while maintaining the capability to perform induction heating at different frequencies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic frequency switching capability where the power source system can change output frequencies based on the requirements of different induction heating apparatuses. The switching controller dynamically connects apparatuses to appropriate frequency outputs, allowing the same power source to adaptively serve multiple frequency needs without requiring separate dedicated power sources for each frequency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Device complexity

If a single power source system is used to supply electric power to multiple induction heating apparatuses, then system size is reduced, but it becomes difficult to monitor the output situation effectively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem scaleVSAvoidoutput monitoring capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates an output monitoring apparatus that provides feedback on the power supply status to the control system. The monitoring apparatus includes sensors that detect voltage and current on the secondary side of current transformers, and a controller that calculates output power based on these measurements. This feedback mechanism enables real-time monitoring of output situations even when a single power source serves multiple apparatuses, allowing the system to track which apparatuses are receiving power and at what levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Use of energy by moving object

If power supply is performed by time-division multiplexing or superimposing methods, then efficient power utilization is achieved, but there is no method to confirm whether electric power is being supplied according to supply conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower utilization efficiencyVSAvoidsupply condition verification
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The monitoring apparatus continuously measures voltage and current and compares actual power supply status against predetermined supply conditions stored in the controller. When power is supplied via time-division multiplexing or superimposing methods, the system verifies whether the actual supply matches the planned supply conditions, enabling confirmation of proper operation despite the complexity of the power distribution method.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple induction heating apparatuses are connected to different power sources, then each apparatus can operate independently, but load impedances differ requiring large-scale power supply systems or matching circuits

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent operation capabilityVSAvoidpower supply system scale
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a single power source system with multi-frequency output capability to serve multiple induction heating apparatuses with different load impedances. The power source includes a converter and inverter that can generate different frequencies and voltage levels, and switching sections that connect apparatuses to appropriate outputs. This universal power source design eliminates the need for separate matching circuits for each apparatus while maintaining independent operation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This configuration enables efficient induction heating with reduced system size and cost, while also allowing for real-time monitoring of output power and ensuring that electric power is supplied according to the requested conditions by each induction heating apparatus.

Implementation Method 1

the penetration depth of a magnetic flux, which is generated from a heating coil

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

induction heating

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEddy currents: Eddy Currents

Data Source

PatentUS12245347B2Induction heating system, induction heating method, output monitoring apparatus, output monitoring method, and induction heating apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.03.04 NETUREN CO LTD
  • US12245347B2 patent drawing
  • US12245347B2 patent drawing
  • US12245347B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An induction heating system includes induction heating apparatuses, each including a high-frequency current transformer, a low-frequency current transformer and a heating coil, a high-frequency input switch connected to the high-frequency current transformer, a low-frequency input switch connected to the low-frequency current transformer, a first power source to output a high-frequency electric power and a low frequency electric power, a second power source, a first power source output switch connectable to the first power source, a second power source output switch connectable to the second power source, and a switch controller. Each induction heating apparatus includes a heater controller to send a signal to the switching controller to turn on one of the first power source output switch and the second power source output switch, to turn off the other, and to switch on or off each of the high-frequency input switch and the low-frequency input switch.