The world of kitchen technology is constantly evolving, but few innovations have been as transformative as those hidden within patent filings like US20140197169A1. While the average consumer might just see a sleek glass cooktop, engineers and tech enthusiasts recognize this specific patent as a blueprint for high-efficiency induction heating.
- What is US20140197169A1?
- The Science of Induction in US20140197169A1
- Key Features of the US20140197169A1 Technology
- Why US20140197169A1 Matters for Energy Efficiency
- Practical Applications of US20140197169A1
- Decoding the Inverter Logic in US20140197169A1
- Safety Innovations in Patent US20140197169A1
- Comparing US20140197169A1 to Previous Patents
- The Role of Ferromagnetic Materials
- Maintenance and Longevity of Induction Systems
- Future Trends Inspired by US20140197169A1
- Technical Specifications: A Closer Look
- Conclusion: The Impact of US20140197169A1
- FAQs About US20140197169A1
US20140197169A1 describes a sophisticated method for controlling induction heating systems, focusing on optimizing the power delivery to the cooking vessel. This isn’t just about boiling water faster; it’s about the intricate dance of electromagnetic fields and frequency modulation. By diving into this patent, we can better understand how modern appliances achieve such incredible precision.
What is US20140197169A1?
At its core, US20140197169A1 is a patent application focused on an induction heating device equipped with an advanced inverter circuit. The primary goal of this technology is to improve the stability and efficiency of the heating process, regardless of the material of the cookware used.
Traditional induction hobs often struggle with certain types of metals. However, the systems outlined in US20140197169A1 utilize a specific resonant frequency control mechanism. This allows the appliance to detect the characteristics of the pan and adjust the magnetic output accordingly.
This patent represents a leap forward in power electronics. By using a combination of IGBTs (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors) and smart sensors, the device can maintain a consistent temperature, even when the power supply fluctuates.
The Science of Induction in US20140197169A1
To truly appreciate US20140197169A1, we have to look at the physics involved. Unlike gas or electric coils, induction doesn’t create heat on the stovetop itself. Instead, it uses magnetic induction to excite the molecules in the cookware.
The patent US20140197169A1 details how an alternating current passes through a copper coil, creating a rapidly changing magnetic field. When a ferromagnetic pan is placed on top, this field induces eddy currents within the metal.
The resistance of the pan to these currents is what generates the heat. The innovation in US20140197169A1 lies in how it manages the switching frequency of the inverter. This ensures that the energy transfer is maximized while minimizing “switching losses” that lead to wasted electricity.
Key Features of the US20140197169A1 Technology
The technical specifications found in US20140197169A1 highlight several key features that set it apart from older induction models. These improvements focus on safety, user experience, and hardware longevity.
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Load Detection: The system can determine if a pan is present and if it is suitable for induction.
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Variable Frequency Control: Adjusts the output based on the required heat intensity, allowing for delicate simmering.
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Thermal Protection: Integrated sensors prevent the inverter components from overheating, extending the life of the appliance.
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Noise Reduction: By optimizing the resonance, the high-pitched “hum” often associated with induction is significantly reduced.
Why US20140197169A1 Matters for Energy Efficiency
In an era where sustainability is paramount, US20140197169A1 offers a pathway to greener kitchens. Because the heat is generated directly in the pan, there is very little ambient heat loss.
According to the principles in US20140197169A1, the efficiency of these systems can exceed 90%. In contrast, gas stoves often hover around 40-50% efficiency, as much of the energy escapes into the surrounding air.
Furthermore, the digital control systems mentioned in the patent allow for “instant-off” capabilities. The moment the pan is removed, the energy consumption drops to near zero, making US20140197169A1 a cornerstone for smart, energy-conscious home design.
Practical Applications of US20140197169A1
While we mostly discuss home kitchens, the technology in US20140197169A1 has broader implications. Its precision makes it ideal for several high-stakes environments.
1. Professional Gastronomy
Chefs require exact temperatures for tasks like tempering chocolate or sous-vide cooking. The stable power modulation described in US20140197169A1 provides that level of control.
2. Industrial Heating
The same principles of electromagnetic induction are used in metal forging and melting. The control logic found in US20140197169A1 can be scaled up for industrial-sized inverters.
3. Medical Devices
Certain sterilization equipment uses induction to reach high temperatures quickly. The safety protocols within US20140197169A1 ensure these devices operate within strict parameters.
Decoding the Inverter Logic in US20140197169A1
One of the most dense sections of US20140197169A1 involves the pulse-width modulation (PWM) signals. This is essentially the “brain” of the cooker telling the hardware how much power to release.
The patent explains a feedback loop where the system monitors the input voltage and current. If a spike is detected, the US20140197169A1 logic gates immediately adjust the duty cycle to protect the internal circuitry.
This level of real-time adjustment is why modern induction hobs feel so responsive. When you turn the dial down, the boiling stops almost instantly—a feat made possible by the rapid processing described in US20140197169A1.
Safety Innovations in Patent US20140197169A1
Safety is a recurring theme in the documentation for US20140197169A1. Since induction involves high-frequency electricity, preventing leakage and interference is critical.
The patent details the use of electromagnetic interference (EMI) filters. These filters ensure that the appliance doesn’t interfere with other electronics in your home, like Wi-Fi routers or radios.
Additionally, US20140197169A1 outlines “soft-start” sequences. Instead of a sudden surge of power that could trip a circuit breaker, the device ramps up the energy smoothly. This protects both the home’s electrical grid and the semiconductor switches inside the unit.
Comparing US20140197169A1 to Previous Patents
To understand the value of US20140197169A1, we have to look at what came before. Early induction patents focused purely on the ability to create heat. They were often “all or nothing” systems that were difficult to control.
US20140197169A1 introduced the concept of phase-shift control. By shifting the timing of the inverter’s pulses, the system can achieve a much wider range of power levels. This solved the “cycling” problem where older units would turn on and off repeatedly to simulate low heat.
The Role of Ferromagnetic Materials
A common question regarding US20140197169A1 is why certain pans don’t work. The patent is designed specifically for ferromagnetic materials—metals that contain iron.
The magnetic field needs a “target” that can be easily magnetized and demagnetized. Metals like aluminum or copper (on their own) don’t have the right properties for the resonant tank circuit described in US20140197169A1.
However, some newer versions of this technology, inspired by the groundwork laid in US20140197169A1, are beginning to use higher frequencies that can even heat non-ferrous metals, though they are not yet standard in household kitchens.
Maintenance and Longevity of Induction Systems
Devices built using the US20140197169A1 standard are generally more durable than their predecessors. Because there are no moving parts and no open flames, there is less mechanical wear and tear.
However, the cooling fans and heat sinks mentioned in the patent are vital. If these components fail, the high-power electronics can degrade. Regular cleaning of the air vents ensures the US20140197169A1 compliant device stays within its optimal operating temperature.
Future Trends Inspired by US20140197169A1
Looking ahead, the legacy of US20140197169A1 is visible in the push toward “all-surface” induction. Imagine a stovetop where you can place a pan anywhere, and the surface automatically detects and heats only that spot.
This requires a massive array of small coils, each controlled by the logic systems pioneered in US20140197169A1. We are also seeing the integration of IoT (Internet of Things), where your stove can communicate with a smart recipe app to adjust temperatures automatically.
Technical Specifications: A Closer Look
For the engineers reading, the specific parameters in US20140197169A1 involve a complex arrangement of capacitors and inductors forming a resonant circuit.
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Input Rectifier: Converts AC from the wall to DC.
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DC Link: Stabilizes the voltage before it hits the inverter.
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Inverter Bridge: Usually a “Half-Bridge” or “Full-Bridge” configuration using MOSFETs or IGBTs.
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Microcontroller: The unit that executes the code based on the US20140197169A1 patent claims.
Conclusion: The Impact of US20140197169A1
The patent US20140197169A1 is more than just a legal document; it is a roadmap for the high-performance kitchens of today and tomorrow. By focusing on frequency control, energy efficiency, and user safety, it has helped bridge the gap between industrial power and home convenience.
As we continue to electrify our homes and move away from fossil fuels, technologies like those found in US20140197169A1 will become the standard. They provide a cleaner, safer, and more precise way to cook, proving that the best innovations are often the ones we can’t see.
FAQs About US20140197169A1
1. What is the main benefit of the US20140197169A1 patent?
The main benefit is the significant improvement in power delivery control. It allows induction cooktops to be much more precise at low temperatures and more efficient at high temperatures by using advanced inverter switching logic.
2. Does US20140197169A1 affect the type of pans I need?
Directly, no. It works with standard induction-ready cookware. However, the technology makes the stove better at “reading” the pan, which means it can handle a wider variety of iron-based alloys more effectively than older models.
3. Is the technology in US20140197169A1 safer than gas?
Yes. The patent includes several layers of electronic safety protocols, such as automatic shut-off and overheat protection. Since there is no open flame and the surface stays relatively cool, the risk of burns and fires is greatly reduced.
4. How does US20140197169A1 improve energy efficiency?
It minimizes energy waste by ensuring the magnetic field is perfectly tuned to the size and material of the pan. This reduces “leakage” and ensures that nearly all the electricity pulled from the wall goes directly into heating your food.
5. Can I find US20140197169A1 technology in current appliances?
Most high-end induction cooktops manufactured in the last decade utilize the principles or direct engineering solutions outlined in US20140197169A1. It is a foundational patent for modern solid-state power control in appliances.
