Optimized 4-coil inductor system arrangement for induction heating appliances

In this paper, the efficiency of the induction system composed of 4 small coils with a given connection among them for cooking applications is analyzed. The 4-coil configuration has several advantages with respect to the single-coil induction system, for instance, higher flexibility and better heat distribution in the pan. Different configurations can be arranged according to series or parallel connections of the coils and the polarity of the currents. However, the selected configuration connection has a direct impact on the efficiency of the power transference into the pot. Therefore, in this work the efficiency of the different 4-coil configurations is analyzed. The analysis is carried out in terms of equivalent impedances. The experimental test based on impedance measurements is performed to verify the preceding analysis.