Solid-State RF Thawing Apparatus with Steam Mixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thawing apparatuses and methods take a long time and do not thaw substances evenly, leading to drip loss and inefficiency in thawing frozen products like meat and fish.
Innovation Solution
A thawing apparatus using solid-state radio frequency sources with a RF power amplifier, steam injection, and a tumbler or mixer for even heating and cooling, controlled by sensors to maintain precise temperature and energy distribution, minimizing drip loss and ensuring efficient thawing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional thawing apparatuses are used, then the thawing process can be completed, but the time required is relatively long and the substance is not thawed evenly
Solution Approach 1:
The thawing apparatus divides the thawing process into multiple zones with independent temperature control. Different regions of the chamber can be heated at different rates and temperatures, allowing the frozen substance to be thawed evenly throughout while maintaining overall productivity. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling simultaneous optimization of thawing speed and uniformity.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus applies different thermal conditions to different parts of the frozen substance based on their specific requirements. Local heating elements can target specific areas that need more thawing, while other areas receive less heat, ensuring uniform thawing throughout the substance without requiring excessive overall heating time.
2Loss of substance
If conventional thawing methods are used, then the frozen substance can be heated, but drip loss occurs and energy consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus incorporates temperature sensors and control systems that continuously monitor the thawing process and adjust heating parameters in real-time. This feedback mechanism prevents overheating and eliminates the need for excessive energy input, thereby reducing drip loss while optimizing energy consumption. The system automatically stops heating when the desired temperature is reached.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus dynamically adjusts heating parameters such as temperature, humidity, and heating rate during the thawing process. By changing these parameters adaptively, the system prevents rapid temperature increases that cause drip loss and minimizes energy consumption. The parameters are optimized to maintain the substance just below the melting point throughout the process.
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 apparatus efficiently thaws frozen products from -20°C to 0°C with minimal drip loss, ensuring even energy distribution and precise control of the thawing process, enhancing product quality and yield.
Implementation Method 1
a thawing-apparatus, in which a frozen substance is heated to a temperature in the vicinity of 0°C, which comprises at least one, preferably a multitude, solid-state radio frequency source(s)
Implementation Method 2
the tumbler or mixer comprises steam-injection means and/or a jacket and/or a carrier to further heat the substance downstream from the thawing apparatus
Implementation Method 3
the tumbler or mixer comprises steam-injection means and/or a jacket and/or a carrier to further heat the substance downstream from the thawing apparatus
Implementation Method 4
comprises a cooling means downstream from the tumbler or mixer
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The present invention relates to a thawing-apparatus, in which a substance is preferably heated. The present invention further relates to a method to thaw a substance with radio- frequency waves.