Solid state radio frequency (SSRF) water heater device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Galley insert devices for heating and boiling water in aircraft face issues with scale formation and require high-voltage power systems due to legacy magnetron-based technology.
Innovation Solution
A solid-state radio frequency (SSRF) water heating and steam generation system using a Faraday cage with an RF-transparent tank, an SSRF generation array, RF sensors, and control processors to efficiently heat and boil water without scale buildup and with low-voltage power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If magnetron-based technology is used for water heating, then heating function is achieved, but high-voltage power systems are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the magnetron-based electromagnetic heating system with a solid-state RF generation system. The solid state RF generator array uses semiconductor devices to generate RF energy directly, eliminating the need for magnetrons and high-voltage power systems. This substitution of the heating mechanism fundamentally changes the power system requirements from high-voltage to low-voltage operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the RF heating system by using solid-state devices that operate at lower voltages. The RF generation array operates at standard aircraft electrical systems voltages (28V DC or 115V AC) rather than the high voltages required by magnetron-based systems, thereby simplifying the power system architecture.
2Temperature
If conventional water heating is used, then water is heated, but scale formation occurs on interior surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional resistive or element-based heating with RF dielectric heating. The RF energy penetrates the water and heats it through molecular friction and rotation, rather than heating from the outside in through contact with heating elements. This eliminates the temperature gradients and hot spots that cause scale to precipitate and deposit on interior surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the heating mechanism from contact-based to volumetric heating. RF energy distributes heat uniformly throughout the water volume, maintaining more consistent temperature distribution and preventing the localized overheating that causes scale formation. The water is heated through its bulk rather than from the boundaries inward.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If SSRF system is used, then scale formation is reduced, but RF energy transmission through water must be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates RF sensors that monitor the RF energy transmission through the water tank in real-time. This feedback information is used by the control system to adjust the RF generation array parameters, optimizing energy transmission efficiency. The feedback loop allows the system to adapt to changing conditions such as water level, temperature, and tank contents.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the RF system dynamically adjustable through the control processor that modifies the RF generation array operation based on sensor feedback. The system can change RF power levels, frequency, and pulse duration to optimize heating efficiency for different operating conditions, rather than using fixed parameters.
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 SSRF system effectively reduces scale formation, operates with lower maintenance and cost, and provides efficient heating and steam generation using RF energy, while eliminating the need for high-voltage power systems.
Implementation Method 1
an RF signal source generates and amplifies RF energy transmitted through the water in the tank (e.g., from the first RF-transparent surface through the water to a second RF-transparent surface at another end of the tank) to excite and heat the water within
Implementation Method 2
RF sensors detect the absorbed and residual RF energy so that control processors may adjust the level of transmitted RF energy
Implementation Method 3
a Faraday cage or other like RF-shielded enclosure with a water tank disposed therein
Data Source
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AI summary
A solid-state radio frequency (SSRF) water heating apparatus is disclosed. In embodiments, the SSRF water heater includes a water tank, SSRF generator array and RF sensors enclosed within an RF-shielded cage. The SSRF array synthesizes RF signals in the microwave range and transmits the RF energy through the water tank, exciting and heating the water molecules without direct contact. The RF sensors at the opposite end of the tank sense residual RF energy not absorbed by the water. Control processors regulate the generation and transmission of the RF energy based on the sensed residual energy. The heated water and/or generated steam is piped to hot water dispensers, beverage makers, or steam ovens.