Multi-layer-multi-turn high efficiency inductors for an induction heating system
AssigneeNuCurrent, Inc.
InventorsVinit Singh, Jacob Babcock, Christine A. Frysz
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A multi-layer, multi-turn structure for an inductor having a plurality of conductor layers separated by layers of insulator is described. The inductor further comprises a connector electrically connected between the conductor layers. The structure of the inductor may comprise a cavity therewithin. The structure of the inductor constructed such that electrical resistance is reduced therewithin, thus increasing the efficiency of the inductor. The inductor is particularly useful at operating within the radio frequency range and greater.
Claims37
An induction heating system, comprising:
- a) an input electrical power source;
- b) a first control circuit electrically connected to the input electrical power source;
- c) a load circuit comprising an inductor, electrically connected to the input electrical power source and control circuit, the inductor comprising:
- i) a first conductor layer;
- ii) a second conductor layer spaced apart from the first conductor layer;
- iii) an insulator layer positioned in the space between the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer;
- and
- iv) at least one connector electrically connecting the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer;
- d) wherein when an electrical current, supplied by the input electrical power source is propagated within at least the first conductor layer, a magnetic flux is generated within the inductor when a change in at least one of a frequency, a magnitude, or a waveform shape of the propagated electrical current occurs;
- and
- e) wherein when a ferromagnetic material is positioned adjacent the inductor, heat is generated.
An induction heating system, comprising:
- a) an input electrical power source;
- b) a control circuit electrically connected to the input power source;
- c) an inverter circuit, electrically connected to the input electrical power source;
- d) a load circuit comprising an inductor, electrically connected to the input electrical power source and control circuit, the inductor comprising:
- i) a first inductor subassembly comprising a first conductor layer and a second conductor layer spaced apart from the first conductor layer;
- ii) a first insulator layer positioned in the space between the first conductor layer and the second conductor layers;
- iii) a first connector electrically connecting the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer;
- iv) a second inductor subassembly comprising a third conductor layer and a fourth conductor layer spaced apart from the third conductor layer;
- v) a second insulator layer positioned in the space between the third conductor layer and the fourth conductor layers;
- vi) a second connector electrically connecting the third conductor layer and the fourth conductor layer;
- and
- vii) wherein the first inductor subassembly is electrically connected in series to the second inductor subassembly;
- e) wherein when an electrical current, supplied by the input electrical power source is propagated within at least the first conductor layer, a magnetic flux is generated within at least the first inductor subassembly when a change in at least one of a frequency, a magnitude, or a waveform shape of the propagated electrical current occurs;
- and
- f) wherein when a ferromagnetic material is positioned adjacent the first or second inductor subassemblies of the inductor, heat is generated.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.