Project 11: Introduction Heater

Tiny-X is a simple yet versatile gateway that offers a wide range of connectivity options, making it ideal for small network models with quick integration and customization capabilities.

Key Features

Feature	Old Technology	New VFD Technology	Evaluation
Driver	Fixed frequency, variable PWM duty	Variable frequency, fixed PWM duty	VFD is an advanced technology with many superior features, suitable for high power applications with better durability
Operating Voltage Range	100 - 264Vac	80 - 400Vac	A wider voltage range allows operation in environments with unstable power quality and provides better safety against voltage fluctuations
Power Adjustment Capability	Discontinuous. Turns on/off when power < 50%	Seamless full-range adjustment	Smooth adjustments like a gas stove, offering better cooking quality and user experience
Warranty & Repairability	No	Yes	The system is not isolated in case of failure, most components are damaged, and usually, the entire electronic part or circuit board needs replacement
Board Size	Equivalent	Equivalent	VFD has the same size but twice the power density
Idle Load Discharge	None	Supported if equipped with a relay	Idle power loss increases user electricity consumption
Compatibility with Various COIL Types	No	Supported	VFD changes frequency, supporting multiple COIL types, making installation, repair, replacement, and purchasing easier
Conversion Efficiency	Lower	Higher	Higher efficiency helps users save electricity
Power MOSFET Operating Temperature	> 100°C	70°C	Lower MOSFET temperature extends power component lifespan
Compatibility with Different Cookware	Only Stainless Steel, Iron	Compatible with all metal cookware. Power for aluminum and copper cookware < 500W	Supports various cookware types in home kitchens, enhancing convenience
Protection Against Input Voltage Fluctuations	No	Supported	The circuit ensures power module safety during large input voltage variations, increasing reliability and durability
Power Control Method	Only potentiometer or digital control panel	Supports both potentiometer and digital control panel	Flexible support allows the power module to be used in various designs and market segments
Common Components	Yes, except MCU	Yes, compatible with multiple MCUs	VFD-optimized algorithms work with many common MCUs, reducing dependency on a single supplier and increasing flexibility in production and sourcing
Bill of Materials	Few, simple	More components: 1 resonance capacitor + 1 IGBT power transistor	VFD has better features, but its structure and cost increase slightly
BOM Cost	Lower	Higher	VFD requires additional components
Power Expansion Capability	No	Supports up to 50W-20kW with three-phase power	VFD can be adjusted and used across a wide power range, allowing integration into various products such as tea kettles (50W), electric kettles (3000W), rice cookers (500W), industrial induction cookers (5kW-15kW-20kW), boiler heating (10kW), plastic extrusion (8kW), etc.

Project Details

Current Status of VFD Induction Cooker
Continuous Power	2500W
Design Versions	3 versions
Active Prototype Units	10 pcs
MCU v1 & v2	Stm32f0 32bit
MCU v3	Megawin 8bit
Durability Test Duration	2500W / 7 days
Cookware Compatibility Test	Aluminum, copper, iron, stainless steel, Elmic cookware (Spain)
User Condition Tests	Placing and removing cookware, moving cookware while in operation
Power Performance	With a 2500W induction cooker, boiling 1 liter of water at 25°C takes approximately 2 minutes and 40 seconds, which is 20 seconds faster than common electric kettles. A 1600-1800W induction cooker requires 4 minutes and 20 seconds to achieve the same result.

Gallery

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