Smart table and method for operating the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multipurpose tables with induction heating modules have fixed locations, limiting flexibility and convenience in using various electronic devices, and there is a need for a solution that integrates induction heating and wireless power transmission functions without separate regions, while minimizing power consumption and cost.
Innovation Solution
A smart table equipped with a plate, an inverter to convert DC power to AC, a coil unit for induction heating and wireless power transmission, an RFID reader to recognize appliance information, and a processor to control the coils for efficient power transmission based on the appliance's location and requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional table with a fixed induction heating module is used, then the induction heating function is provided, but the flexibility and adaptability for various electronic devices are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling the induction heating coils to serve dual purposes: traditional induction heating and wireless power transmission. The same coil structure is used for both heating cookware and charging electronic devices, eliminating the need for separate dedicated charging regions and maintaining structural simplicity while achieving versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the coil configuration adjustable and reconfigurable. The coils can be selectively activated and deactivated based on the detected position and type of object on the table surface, allowing the system to adapt its power transmission characteristics dynamically rather than having a fixed configuration
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate regions for induction heating and wireless power transmission are provided, then both functions are available, but the table structure becomes more complex and space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the induction heating function and wireless power transmission function into a single integrated system. The same coil units and control mechanisms are used for both purposes, allowing the table to provide both functions within the same physical space without requiring separate dedicated regions, thus saving table surface area
3Ease of operation
If the induction heating module is positioned at various locations, then flexibility is improved, but the conventional fixed configuration limits easy repositioning
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses RFID readers and tags to dynamically detect the position of objects on the table and automatically activates the appropriate coil units based on detected positions. This dynamic detection and activation system enables easy repositioning of heating and charging zones without manual reconfiguration of the physical module locations
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 flexible use of induction heating and wireless power transmission functions without separate regions, effectively supplies power to moving appliances, and achieves a compact, cost-effective design with minimized power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
an inverter configured to convert direct current (DC) power into alternative current (AC) power and to supply the AC power
Implementation Method 2
a coil unit disposed below the plate and including a plurality of working coils heated by the AC power
Implementation Method 3
a table with an induction heating module installed therein, for heating a metallic cooking container using electricity via an induction heating method
Implementation Method 4
a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader configured to recognize an RFID tag of a home appliance placed on the plate and to receive information on the home appliance from the RFID tag
Implementation Method 5
a processor configured to drive one or more of the plurality of working coils as wireless power transmission coils to perform control to transmit wireless power to the home appliance
Data Source
AI summary
A smart table is disclosed. The smart table includes a plate, an inverter configured to convert direct current (DC) power into alternative current (AC) power and to supply the AC power, a coil unit disposed below the plate and including a plurality of working coils heated by the AC power, a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader configured to recognize an RFID tag of a home appliance placed on the plate and to receive information on the home appliance from the RFID tag, and a processor configured to drive one or more of the plurality of working coils as wireless power transmission coils to perform control to transmit wireless power to the home appliance based on the received information.