Versatile induction hob
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flexible induction hobs face inefficiencies in heating multiple cooking containers of varying shapes and sizes due to unbalanced power distribution and resonant frequency issues when coils are connected in parallel or series, and current solutions fail to efficiently manage different power levels and container configurations.
Innovation Solution
The induction hob features a configurable topology with a single high-frequency converter and adjustable connections between induction coils and resonant capacitors, allowing dynamic configuration of coils to operate in parallel or series, with additional capacitive elements to balance power distribution and maintain resonance within a narrow frequency band.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If multiple induction coils are connected in parallel to a single frequency converter, then the device complexity is reduced, but the power distribution becomes unbalanced and resonant frequency control is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic switching between series and parallel coil configurations using solid-state switches (IGBTs) to adapt the coil connection topology based on the number and position of cooking containers. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to maintain balanced power distribution and controlled resonant frequency while using a single frequency converter, resolving the contradiction between device complexity and power distribution reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameters (connection topology, resonant frequency, impedance) of the coil system dynamically. By switching between series and parallel configurations and adjusting resonant capacitors, the system optimizes power distribution balance and resonant frequency control for different cooking scenarios, enabling reliable operation with a single frequency converter.
2Reliability
If multiple induction coils are connected in series, then the resonant frequency is better controlled, but the power delivery efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between series and parallel coil configurations based on the cooking load. When multiple containers are detected, coils are connected in parallel for efficient power delivery. When fewer containers are present, series connection is used for better resonant frequency control. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between resonant frequency control and power delivery efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes the electrical connection parameters (series/parallel topology) and resonant frequency based on the cooking scenario. By adjusting these parameters in real-time, the system achieves both efficient power delivery and controlled resonant frequency, eliminating the trade-off between these two parameters.
3Device complexity
If a single frequency converter is used for multiple coils, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different cooking configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of coil connections (series/parallel switching) and selective activation of individual coils based on the detected cooking container positions and types. This dynamic adaptability allows a single frequency converter to efficiently handle various cooking configurations, from single large pots to multiple small containers, resolving the contradiction between device complexity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single frequency converter is designed with multi-functionality to support multiple operating modes (single coil, multiple coils in series, multiple coils in parallel) and different power levels. By integrating these multiple functions into one converter with dynamic switching capability, the system achieves high adaptability to different cooking configurations while maintaining low device complexity.
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 and balanced heating of multiple cooking containers with different impedances, maintaining resonance within a narrow frequency range and ensuring even power distribution, addressing the limitations of previous solutions.
Implementation Method 1
Flexible induction hobs are typically provided with a plurality of induction coils
Implementation Method 2
adjustable connections between induction coils and resonant capacitors, allowing dynamic configuration
Data Source
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AI summary
Induction hob provided with a frequency converter (FC) and parallel branches (A, B), departing from the output (OUT) of the converter. Each branch includes a switch (S1, S2) and an inductor (L1, L2). The hob also comprises configurable contact means (J1) to enable an electrical connection of a first intermediate terminal (I1) between said first inductor (L1) and said first switch (S1) in said first branch (A) and a second intermediate terminal (12) between said second inductor (L2) and said second switch (S2) in said second branch (B). The hob, depending on the configuration of said switches (S1, S2), can operate each of the two inductors (L1, L2) alone, or in parallel connection, or in series connection.