Solid-State RF Sources for Uniform Heating Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microwave ovens using magnetrons for industrial applications suffer from undesirable heat development, uncontrollable processes, and the occurrence of hot spots during long operating times, which are not adequately addressed by existing technologies.
Innovation Solution
A processing apparatus utilizing solid-state radio frequency (RF) sources with individual control of amplitude, frequency, and phase, combined with sensors for precise energy management, ensures even energy distribution and prevents hot spots by using multiple RF sources arranged in arrays and controlled by a closed-loop system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a magnetron is used to generate microwave energy in industrial applications, then the microwave generation capability is achieved, but undesirable heat development and uncontrollable processes occur during long operating times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single magnetron system into multiple solid-state RF sources arranged in arrays. Each source can be independently controlled, allowing segmented power delivery that prevents localized overheating and improves overall thermal control during extended operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of each solid-state RF source through individual amplitude, frequency, and phase adjustment. This dynamic capability allows real-time adaptation to prevent hot spots and control heat development throughout the processing chamber during long operating times.
2Power
If a magnetron is used for microwave generation, then the processing function is achieved, but the process is not sufficiently controllable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the microwave generation system into multiple independently controllable solid-state RF sources. This segmentation enables precise control of energy distribution patterns, allowing operators to control the heating process more effectively by adjusting individual source parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates sensors that provide feedback on temperature and energy distribution to a control system. This feedback mechanism enables automatic adjustment of the solid-state RF sources to maintain optimal processing conditions, significantly improving process controllability.
3Temperature
If conventional microwave radiation is used, then heating function is achieved, but undesired hot spots occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses multiple solid-state RF sources arranged in arrays to segment the microwave field into multiple controllable zones. This segmentation allows for more uniform energy distribution across the processing chamber, preventing the formation of hot spots while maintaining effective heating capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality control by enabling independent adjustment of each solid-state RF source's amplitude, frequency, and phase. This allows tailored energy delivery to different regions of the processing chamber, ensuring uniform heating conditions throughout while preventing localized hot spots.
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 achieves controlled heating, cooking, drying, disinfection, and pasteurization with reduced energy consumption and improved yield by preventing uneven energy distribution and internal component damage.
Implementation Method 1
A processing apparatus with a solid-state radio frequency (RF)- transistor(s) in a RF power amplifier... converts a low power radio frequency signal into a higher power signal... radiate the microwaves into the waveguide... heating, cooking, drying, disinfecting, pasteurizing and/or sterilizing a substance
Implementation Method 2
The antenna can be coupled to and/or located in a waveguide, wherein the antenna can radiate the microwaves into the waveguide which preferably is designed of reflective material and can guide the microwaves to a desired location
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c~1d
Figure 2a~2b
AI summary
The present invention relates to a processing apparatus, in which a substance is preferably heated, cooked, dried, disinfected and/or pasteurized, sterilized. The present invention further relates to a method to treat a substance with radio-frequency waves.