Temperature sensor

Abstract

A temperature sensor for accurately measuring a temperature, such as a temperature of a fluid whose temperature is changing, may include a housing having an outer surface extending between a first end and a second end. The temperature sensor housing may include a set of external grooves for coupling a set of temperature sensor probes along an exterior of the housing with a probe extending at a first end. Further, a set of recesses may be formed at the first end for positioning the probes within the recesses. Further, the interior of the housing may be hollow with a probe of a second type extending through the interior between the first end and the second end.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on August 26, 2021, with application number 202110988716.7 and invention title "Temperature Sensor". Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to temperature sensors (e.g., air temperature sensors), and more specifically, to temperature sensors that provide a plurality of sensing elements to provide reduced variation error between sensor outputs when exposed to a flow or other environment undergoing temperature changes. Background Technology

[0003] Temperature sensors (such as thermometers) have been used to determine the local temperature in many implementations. However, temperature sensors can produce erroneous measurements, especially when exposed to fluids or gases that are experiencing temperature changes. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, or may be apparent from the description or may be learned by practice of the invention.

[0005] In one aspect, this disclosure relates to a temperature sensor comprising: a housing having an outer surface, the housing including a first end and a second end; an internal channel extending through the housing between the first end and the second end and defining an inner surface of the housing; a set of recesses disposed in the outer surface, the set of recesses extending between the first end and the second end; a set of external temperature probes fixed to the housing in the set of recesses; and an internal temperature probe extending through the internal channel.

[0006] In another aspect, this disclosure relates to a temperature sensor comprising: a housing including an outer surface extending between a first end and a second end, wherein a set of grooves are disposed in the outer surface, and the housing having an internal channel extending through the housing between the first end and the second end; a set of thermocouple temperature sensors mounted to the housing in the set of grooves; and a resistance thermometer mounted to the housing and extending through the internal channel.

[0007] In another aspect, this disclosure relates to a temperature sensor comprising: a substrate having a first surface spaced apart from a second surface by a set of sidewalls; a set of thermocouples disposed on the first surface of the substrate; and a resistance thermometer disposed on the second surface of the substrate.

[0008] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the invention will be better understood by referring to the following description and the appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The complete and practical disclosure of the invention, including its preferred mode, is set forth in the description with reference to the accompanying drawings, for those skilled in the art, wherein:

[0010] Figure 1 This is a top-down schematic diagram of an exemplary aircraft and the power distribution system of an aircraft including a temperature sensor.

[0011] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the temperature sensor.

[0012] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A view of the assembled temperature sensor.

[0013] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A top-down view of the temperature sensor, showing a sheath surrounding the temperature sensor, with the sheath shown in cross-section.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a 3D view of another temperature sensor component integrated into the circuit board.

[0015] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A side view of the circuit board, showing the components located on the top and bottom of the circuit board. Detailed Implementation

[0016] This document describes aspects of the disclosure in the exemplary context of an aircraft, which, among other things, utilizes a temperature sensor to measure local air temperature. However, it will be understood that the disclosure is not limited thereto and has general applicability to environments requiring temperature measurement, such as those in non-aircraft applications, including other mobile applications and non-mobile industrial, commercial, and residential applications, or any other place, area, or other environment requiring temperature measurement. It is noteworthy that such a temperature sensor will be suitable for areas where the temperature varies with local fluid or gas flow. For example, suitable mobile environments may include aircraft, spacecraft, space launch vehicles, satellites, locomotives, automobiles, etc. Commercial environments may include manufacturing facilities or power generation and distribution facilities or infrastructure. Residential environments (e.g., residences, vehicles, buildings, or workplaces) are also suitable for temperature sensors.

[0017] While a variety of elements will be described as a “group,” it should be understood that a “group” can include any number of corresponding elements, including a single element. Furthermore, while “a group of items” includes the plural form of “item,” it should be understood that this use of the plural form does not require more than one item for the group. Unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “a,” and “the” include plural references.

[0018] The use of the terms “proximal” or “proximal” refers to movement in a direction toward another component, or a component being relatively closer to another component compared to another reference point. Approximate language used throughout the specification and claims is applied to modify any quantitative expression that may allow variation without altering its underlying function. Therefore, values ​​modified by terms such as “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially” are not limited to specified precise values. In at least some cases, approximate language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value, or the precision of the method or machine used to construct or manufacture the component and / or system. For example, approximate language may refer to a range of 10%. Furthermore, as used herein, while a sensor may be described as “sensing” or “measuring” a corresponding value, sensing or measuring may include determining a value indicating or associated with the corresponding value, rather than directly sensing or measuring the value itself. The sensed or measured value may be further provided to additional components. For example, the value may be provided to a controller module or processor, and the controller module or processor may process the value to determine a representative value or electrical characteristics representing said value.

[0019] All directional references (e.g., radial, axial, up, down, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, front, back, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, counterclockwise) are used for identification purposes only to aid the reader's understanding of this disclosure and do not impose limitations, particularly on their location, orientation, or use. Furthermore, unless otherwise indicated, connection references (e.g., attachment, coupling, connection, and engagement) are to be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between sets of elements and relative movement between elements. Unless otherwise stated herein, the terms "coupling," "fixed," "attached to," etc., refer both to direct connection, fixation, or attachment and to indirect connection, fixation, or attachment via one or more intermediate parts or features. Therefore, a connection reference does not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and have a fixed relationship with each other. In non-limiting examples, connection or disconnection may be selectively constructed, connected, or connectable to provide, enable, disable, etc., electrical connections between individual elements. Non-limiting example: A power distribution bus connection or disconnection can be enabled or operated by a switch, bus connection logic, or any other connector configured to enable or disable energizing electrical loads downstream of the bus or between buses.

[0020] As used herein, a “controller” may include at least one processor and memory. Non-limiting examples of memory may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, or one or more different types of portable electronic storage (e.g., discs, DVDs, CD-ROMs, etc.), or any suitable combination of these types of memory. A processor may be configured to run any suitable program or executable instructions designed to perform various methods, functions, processing tasks, calculations, etc., to enable or implement the technical operations or actions described herein. The program may include a computer program product that may include a machine-readable medium for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such a machine-readable medium may be any available medium that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer or other machine having a processor. Typically, such a computer program may include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, algorithms, etc., that have the technical effect of performing a particular task or implementing a particular abstract data type.

[0021] The exemplary drawings are for illustrative purposes only, and the dimensions, positions, order, environment, and relative sizes reflected in the accompanying drawings may vary.

[0022] Now for reference Figure 1 The aircraft 10 includes a body 12, from which a pair of wings 14 extend. The aircraft 10 is shown having an exemplary power distribution system 16, which includes at least one turbine engine, shown as a left engine 18 and a right engine 20. Alternatively, the power distribution system 16 may have fewer or additional engines or engine systems, and the specific engines are not closely related to this disclosure.

[0023] Temperature sensor 22 may be located in one or more of the engines 18, 20, or on one or both of the wings 14, or in any other suitable location within the aircraft 10, such as inside the aircraft 10. While temperature sensing of the exterior of the aircraft 10 is shown using temperature sensors 22 located in the engines 18, 20, or on the wings, it should be understood that one or more temperature sensors 22 may be located within or along the aircraft 10, such as internally, externally, or elsewhere where temperature monitoring is required or may be needed. This internal environment may include electrical areas, such as the electronics bay or avionics enclosure in the non-limiting example, or other areas where temperature readings, management, and control are desired or used.

[0024] For example, controller 30 may be communicatively coupled to temperature sensor 22 via power distribution system 16. Controller 30 may include processor 32 and memory 34. Processor 32 may be configured to operate software and perform data processing functions, such as requesting, receiving, analyzing, modifying, recording, sending, or otherwise utilizing information generated at temperature sensor 22, such as signals representing measurements from one or more temperature sensors. Furthermore, controller 30 may be used to control the operation of temperature sensor 22 and to request measurements or readings on demand. Similarly, in addition to other elements of power distribution system 16 or other vehicle systems, memory 34 may be used to store information related to temperature sensor 22, as well as stored programs or executable instructions, or other historical data or information related to the operation of temperature sensor 22.

[0025] Furthermore, the cockpit 36 ​​of the aircraft 10 may include a display 38 communicatively or operatively coupled to the temperature sensor 22, the controller 30, and the power distribution system 16. The display 38 may be used to display or otherwise present measurements from the temperature sensor 22 or information indicating such measurements. Additionally, the display 38 is contemplated to be or include a user interface, for example, for requesting measurements from the temperature sensor 22 or otherwise interacting with the temperature sensor 22.

[0026] It should be understood that, although in Figure 1 The aspects of this disclosure are illustrated in the context of an aircraft environment, but the disclosure is not limited thereto and can be applicable to a wide variety of environments. The inclusion of a temperature sensor 22 in aircraft 10 is merely an example, and it should be understood that the temperature sensor 22 can be used in countless environments or applications (e.g., vehicle or non-vehicle implementations, and non-aircraft or ground applications). Furthermore, while this description pertains to a power system architecture in an aircraft, aspects of this disclosure can be further applied to non-power system architectures or any system architecture requiring temperature measurement.

[0027] also, Figure 1 The number and arrangement of the various temperature sensors 22 depicted are also non-limiting examples of aspects associated with this disclosure. For example, although various components (e.g., on the wing 14 or within the engines 18, 20) have been shown with relative positions of the aircraft 10, aspects of this disclosure are not limited thereto, and based on their schematic description, the components and temperature sensors 22 are not limited thereto. Additional aircraft 10 (and non-aircraft) configurations are contemplated.

[0028] refer to Figure 2An exploded view of a temperature sensor 22 includes a housing 50 having a first end 52 and a second end 54 and defining an outer surface 55. The housing 50 is defined by a cylindrical peripheral wall 56, which defines a first opening 58 at the first end 52 and a second opening 60 at the second end 54 (in...). Figure 2 (Hidden in the middle). The internal channel 62 defining the inner surface 63 is further defined by and located within a housing 50 extending between the first opening 58 and the second opening 60. In a non-limiting example, the housing 50 may be made of a material with high thermal conductivity and low density (e.g., glass-filled polyetheretherketone (PEEK)). Furthermore, the housing may be made of a material that also includes high electrical insulation, or any suitable material with high thermal conductivity and electrical insulation, in order to provide the most accurate possible measurement for the sensor 22.

[0029] The outer perimeter wall 56 of the housing 50 includes multiple pairs of recesses 64, wherein the housing 50 is shown as having four pairs of recesses 64 (only two pairs are visible as shown), each pair of recesses 64 extending between a first end 52 and a second end 54. The recesses 64 may be partially cylindrical, for example having a semi-circular or circular profile, or a profile slightly larger than a semicircle. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the recesses 64 have a profile larger than a semicircle, such that elements disposed within the recesses 64 may be held within the recesses 64 by a snap fit or an interference fit. Although the recesses 64 are shown in pairs, it is contemplated that, in contrast to the pairs, a localized area may contain only a single recess 64. Additional shapes, sizes, and arrangements are contemplated. Although the embodiment described herein is shown as having four pairs of recesses, it should be understood that any number of recesses can be contemplated, such as only one recess, or four unpaired individual recesses. Similarly, any suitable spacing can be used. Preferably, the shape and size of the recess 64 are designed to receive components such as wires in a snap-fit ​​or interference fit, without requiring additional fastening, mounting, or connection methods. In another example, the recess 64 does not need to extend linearly between opposite ends 52, 54 of the housing 50, but may be angled, for example, arranged in a spiral or helical manner around the housing 50. In non-limiting examples, additional shapes and patterns of the recess 64 are contemplated, such as angled, linear, stepped, curved, unique, or combinations thereof. Furthermore, the angular positioning of the recess around the housing 50 provides reduced variation error because local temperature variations can be offset by comparing local temperature variations among multiple sensors.

[0030] The housing 50 includes a set of recesses 66 formed in the peripheral wall 56 at a first end 52. Alternatively, the recesses 66 may be defined by a set of protrusions 68 extending from the first end 52 of the peripheral wall 56, with the recesses 66 defined between adjacent protrusions 68. Pairs of recesses 64 terminate at the first end 52 at the recesses 66. Thus, the number of pairs of recesses 64 may be complementary to the number of recesses 66. The size and spacing of the recesses 66 or protrusions 68 may vary such that the spacing between the recesses 64 and the recesses is variable to define protrusions 68 of different sizes.

[0031] For example, the specific arrangement and angular position of the grooves 64, recesses 66, and protrusions 68 provide improved accuracy for the sensor 22, and even higher measurement accuracy when the housing 50 is made of the aforementioned material. Such details will be discussed further herein.

[0032] Sensor 22 may also include a set of four sensor probes 80. For example, probe 80 may be a thermocouple or thermocouple temperature sensor terminating at a probe end, the probe end being formed as a connector 82 connecting two wires 84. Current can be supplied along probe 80 to determine temperature using the thermoelectric effect. For example, wires 84 may be standard wires used with thermocouples, such as wires utilizing two different metals. Wires 84 may be wrapped with an insulator (e.g., rubber or plastic) or other common insulator, wherein the insulator terminates before connector 82 to expose connector 82 to the environment. The dimensions of the insulated wires 84 may be designed to fit into paired recesses 64, such that wires 84 are secured within recesses 64. More specifically, the diameter of wires 84 may be larger than the width of the opening in recess 64, allowing for an interference fit or "click" fit for wiring within recesses 64. In such a click fit, inserting wire 84 into recess 64 requires compression of wire 84. Wire 84 then re-expands upon insertion into recess 64, thereby securing wire 84 within recess 64. In addition, the wire 84 can be positioned in the groove 64, so that the connector 82 of the probe 80 is located in the groove 66.

[0033] Furthermore, a central sensor probe 90 is disposed within the housing 50, extending through an internal channel 62 from the first end 52 to the second end 54, and extending beyond the first end 52. In a non-limiting example, the central sensor probe 90 may be a resistance thermometer or a resistance temperature detector (RTD). The central sensor probe 90 may be two parts, comprising two sets of leads 92, each set terminating in a core 94. For example, the core 94 may be glass or ceramic, with the internal length of the leads surrounding the glass or ceramic portion of the core 94, or other typical resistance thermometer construction.

[0034] refer to Figure 3The image shows an assembled sensor 22, with four sensor probes 80 having multiple sets of wires 84 positioned in grooves 64 in the outer surface of the housing 50, wherein a connector 82 is positioned within a recess 66 at a first end 52. The core 94 of the center sensor probe 90 may be positioned to extend beyond the first end 52 from the internal channel 62. For example, epoxy resin (… Figure 4 Alternatively, suitable fasteners may be provided in the internal channel 62 to secure the position of the central sensor probe 90 after insertion into the internal channel 62. In a separate, non-limiting embodiment, the sensor 22, as shown and assembled, may be formed as a complete molded assembly without the need for the recess 64 to receive the wire 84, but simply as an integral assembly comprising two sets of sensor probes 80, 90. Thus, in such an assembly, the sensor will consist only of a housing and a set of sensors or probes, which are molded as a single integral assembly. Such an assembly may be formed as a single assembly, or it may be assembled and then combined into a single assembly, for example, by adding glue or adhesive to hold the unit as a single assembly. In this case, the housing does not need to include a recess, because the adhesive or other elements of the single assembly will carry and secure the sensors or probes.

[0035] refer to Figure 4 The image shows a top-down view, revealing that the internal channel 62 is filled with epoxy resin 96, while any suitable material may be used to stabilize or mount the central sensor probe 90. A sheath 98 may optionally be disposed around the exterior of the sensor 22 to protect the sensor probe 80 from external contaminants or weather conditions, thereby defining a gap 100 between the sheath 98 and the housing 50. Although the sheath 98 is shown in cross-section, it should be understood that the length of the sheath 98 may be the same as the length of the housing 50, or it may be longer or shorter, for example, extending beyond the probes 80 and 90.

[0036] Assembling sensor 22 may include aligning sensor lead 84 with recess 64 and pushing lead 84 into recess 64 to position connector 82 in recess 66. Center sensor probe 90 may be inserted through second end 54 until core 94 protrudes from first end 52. Epoxy resin or other suitable fasteners or mounting systems may then be used to secure center sensor probe 90 in place. Non-limiting examples may include adhesives, mechanical fasteners (e.g., screws or bolts), or more permanent types of mounting such as welding. The housing may be mounted to a vehicle, structure, or other location for measuring temperature at that location.

[0037] In operation, sensor probe 80 and center sensor probe 90 can be communicatively and operatively coupled to controller 30 via power distribution system 16. In another alternative example, sensor probes 80 and 90 can be wirelessly coupled to power distribution system or controller 30, for example, to provide wireless communication measurements for sensor probes 80 and 90. Similarly, sensor probes 80 and 90 can receive instructions from controller 30 to perform measurements, or alternatively, measurements can be performed periodically based on a predetermined schedule or based on the occurrence of conditions (e.g., vehicle operation). Controller 30 can then analyze the measurements taken from multiple sensor probes 80 and 90 based on inputs from all sensors to determine the accurate temperature.

[0038] When sensor 22 takes a reading, the temperature of the measured local fluid or air flow can change. As described herein, the fluid can be a gas or a liquid. For example, this change can be caused by non-uniform flow, or simply by a change in the flow's temperature over time, or simply by a change in the position of the flow with a variable temperature as it flows along sensor 22. The set of grooves 64 used to position sensor probe 80 is designed to position probe 80 in a manner that provides reduced variation error between all probes 80, 90. This reduced variation is particularly important when the flow experiences temperature changes. As described herein, sensor 22 provides reduced measurement variation during temperature changes in the flow, which provides more accurate measurements.

[0039] Once temperature measurements are taken by multiple probes 80, 90, individual measurements from each probe 80, 90 can be recorded and the temperature can be determined. For example, the temperature can be determined as the average temperature across all probes 80, 90. In another example, the temperature can be determined based on individual measurements from probes 80, 90, where the values ​​are weighted based on the probes. More specifically, the central sensor probe 90 can be a resistance temperature detector (RTD), which is generally more accurate than a thermocouple, which can be used as an external sensor probe 80. Regardless of the method used, multiple readings can provide a more accurate temperature measurement compared to existing temperature sensors.

[0040] The temperature sensor 22 described herein provides improved sensor accuracy. Because the temperature sensor 22 is positioned between the exterior and interior of the sensor housing 50, there is a greater chance to avoid or mitigate inaccurate readings. Furthermore, the design of the housing 50 with its external recess 64 provides easy assembly for sensors that are typically spaced 0.2 inches apart, which would otherwise be difficult to assemble at close intervals. Therefore, the temperature sensor 22 described herein improves ease of installation, reduces cost, and enhances measurement accuracy.

[0041] Now for reference Figure 5Another exemplary temperature sensor 110 is disposed in an assembly utilizing a circuit board 112 (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB) or any suitable substrate). The PCB 112 may include a top surface 114 and a bottom surface 116 separated by sidewalls 118. While the geometry of the PCB 112 is rectangular, it should be understood that any geometry is suitable and should not be limited to that shown. Furthermore, it should be understood that the circuit board 112 need not be a conventional circuit board 112, but may be any suitable substrate or material that facilitates the carrying of a probe or temperature sensor, such as aerospace fiber, materials, or any suitable material based on the operating environment.

[0042] Temperature sensor 110 may also include a set of sensor probes 120. Sensor probes 120 may be operatively and electrically connected to PCB 112 and in communication with other components on PCB 112. Although only sensor probes 120 are shown on the top surface 114, it should be understood that sensor probes 120 may be disposed anywhere on PCB 112 or in any organization, such as on the bottom surface 116. For example, Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 The side view shows the sensor probe 120 extending from the bottom surface 116.

[0043] Still watching Figure 5 Sensor probe 120 may include different probes. For example, as shown, sensor probe 120 may include an RTD sensor 122 and a thermocouple 124. The RTD sensor 122 may extend from both the top surface 114 and the bottom surface 116. Similarly, although the thermocouple is only shown on the top surface 114, it is contemplated that the thermocouple may be on any surface of the PCB 112, or between multiple surfaces. For example, there may be four additional complementary thermocouples (not shown) on the bottom surface 116. Therefore, it should be understood that variations in location and organization are expected, different from those shown in the figure.

[0044] Additional optional components 126 may be provided on PCB 112. For example, components such as controller 128 or processor may be used to operate temperature sensor 110 and sensor probe 120 attached thereto. Additionally, another component may be memory 130, for example for storing data log measurements from sensor probe 120. Exemplary additional components may include, but are not limited to: a wireless transceiver capable of bidirectional communication to remotely view or analyze measurements or operate temperature sensor 110; other types of sensors, such as pressure sensors, wind speed sensors, or altimeters; and a power input for receiving current to power the components and sensors on PCB 112.

[0045] PCB 112 and sensor probe 120 may be open to the environment or can be sealed for use where protection of PCB 112 is required. For example, in an open-air implementation (e.g., an open-air implementation of an aircraft), direct contact between fluid (air) and PCB 112 will be possible. However, in another example, such as when measuring oil temperature by immersing the sensor in oil or allowing oil to flow around PCB 112, a waterproof coating on PCB 112 will be desirable to protect components of PCB 112. Preferably, such a coating will cover the entire PCB 112 but will be made of a material with high thermal conductivity to provide the most accurate temperature measurement possible. It is also contemplated that this high thermal conductivity may be limited to sensor probe 120, while other protections or coatings may be used to protect other parts of PCB 112.

[0046] It should be further understood, such as regarding Figure 5-6 The PCB 112 can be without Figure 1-4 The sensor 22 is used in cases where there are housing or sealing requirements, so fewer parts or less complexity can be required.

[0047] In operation, sensor probe 120 can be instructed by controller 128 to perform temperature measurement. Sensor probe 120 can perform the measurement and transmit the measured value as information or an electrical signal to controller 128. Controller 128 can then send the measured value to another controller or process the measured value. If controller 128 sends the measured value, then at some communicable downstream component, the measured value will eventually be processed by some controller 128. We will discuss controller 128 located on PCB 112, and the processing of the measured value is completed at controller 128 on PCB 112.

[0048] Measurements from RTD sensor 122 are generally more accurate than those from thermocouple 124. Therefore, measurements from RTD sensor 122 can be compared with those from thermocouple 124 to ensure that the measurements remain accurate and consistent over time. More specifically, if a difference arises between the temperature measured by RTD sensor 122 and the temperature measured by thermocouple 124 over time, controller 128 can make this determination and act accordingly. This action could be updating the determined temperature value based on an error identified by the difference between the different sensor types, or alerting someone (e.g., a pilot or maintenance personnel) that maintenance is needed to correct the difference between the different sensors. Thus, it should be understood that thermocouple 124 can be used as a reference for RTD sensor 122 to ensure accurate readings. In another example, the determined temperature could simply be the average of all temperatures recorded by the sensor. In yet another example, thermocouple 124 can be used to detect a temperature change that has occurred, which signals controller 128 to activate RTD sensor 122 for a more accurate measurement. In this way, thermocouple 124 acts as a temperature monitor to send signals to the RTD sensor via controller 128 for measurement.

[0049] Further aspects of the invention are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses:

[0050] 1. A temperature sensor, comprising: a housing having an outer surface, the housing including a first end and a second end; an internal channel extending through the housing between the first end and the second end, the internal channel defining an inner surface of the housing; a set of grooves disposed in the outer surface, the set of grooves extending between the first end and the second end; a set of external probes fixed to the housing in the set of grooves; and an internal probe extending through the internal channel.

[0051] 2. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the internal probe extends through the second end and extends beyond the first end.

[0052] 3. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the set of grooves is linear.

[0053] 4. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the set of external probes includes a probe end extending beyond the first end.

[0054] 5. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses further includes epoxy resin that at least partially fills the internal channel and mounts the internal probe in the internal channel.

[0055] 6. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the internal probe is a resistance thermometer.

[0056] 7. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the set of external probes is a thermocouple.

[0057] 8. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first end further includes a set of recesses, the set of recesses defining a set of protrusions between adjacent recesses of the set of recesses, the set of protrusions extending from the first end.

[0058] 9. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the set of grooves is aligned with the set of recesses such that the set of grooves terminates at the set of recesses.

[0059] 10. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the set of external probes is positioned in the set of recesses.

[0060] 11. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the set of grooves is arranged as a set of paired grooves.

[0061] 12. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein each external probe includes a pair of wires, and the pair of wires are held in a pair of recesses by a snap-fit ​​engagement.

[0062] 13. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the housing is made of a thermally conductive and electrically insulating material.

[0063] 14. A temperature sensor comprising: a housing including an outer surface extending between a first end and a second end, wherein a set of grooves are disposed in the outer surface, and the housing having an internal channel extending through the housing between the first end and the second end; a set of thermocouple temperature sensors mounted to the housing in the set of grooves; and a resistance thermometer mounted to the housing and extending through the internal channel.

[0064] 15. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses further includes a set of recesses disposed in the first end, wherein one of the thermocouple temperature sensors in the set terminates in one of the recesses.

[0065] 16. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the set of recesses is arranged in pairs, and each of the set of thermocouple temperature sensors is mounted to the housing at a pair of recesses.

[0066] 17. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the resistance thermometer extends beyond the first end from the internal channel.

[0067] 18. A temperature sensor comprising: a substrate having a first surface spaced apart from a second surface by a set of sidewalls; a set of thermocouples disposed on the first surface of the substrate; and a resistance thermometer disposed on the second surface of the substrate.

[0068] 19. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the substrate is a printed circuit board.

[0069] 20. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the substrate is made of a material having high thermal conductivity and low electrical conductivity.

[0070] 21. A temperature sensor, comprising: a housing having an outer surface, the housing including a first end and a second end, wherein a set of grooves is disposed in the outer surface extending between the first end and the second end; and a set of external probes disposed in the set of grooves.

[0071] 22. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the external probes in the set of external probes includes a probe tip extending from the first end.

[0072] 23. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the housing includes an internal channel extending between the first end and the second end.

[0073] 24. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses further includes at least one central sensor probe that passes through the internal channel and extends from the first end.

[0074] 25. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising epoxy resin filling the internal channel and mounting the central sensor probe in the internal channel.

[0075] 26. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the at least one central sensor probe is a resistance thermometer and the set of external probes are thermocouples.

[0076] 27. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first end further includes a set of recesses defining a set of protrusions extending from the first end.

[0077] 28. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the set of grooves is aligned with the set of recesses such that the groove in the set of grooves terminates at one of the recesses in the set of recesses.

[0078] 29. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the probe tip of the set of external probes is positioned in the set of recesses.

[0079] 30. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the set of grooves is arranged in pairs.

[0080] 31. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein each external probe includes a pair of wires, the pair of wires of each external probe being disposed in a pair of recesses.

[0081] 32. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the pair of wires is held within the groove by a snap-fit ​​engagement.

[0082] 33. A temperature sensor comprising: a housing extending between a first end and a second end, the housing having an outer surface and an inner surface, the housing including an internal channel extending between the first end and the second end, the internal channel defining the inner surface; a set of recesses disposed in the outer surface, the set of recesses extending between the first end and the second end; a set of external probes mounted within the set of recesses; and a set of internal probes extending through the internal channel and extending beyond the first end.

[0083] 34. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses further includes a set of recesses formed at the first end in the housing, the set of grooves being aligned with and terminating in the set of recesses.

[0084] 35. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the set of probes extends from the groove at the first end and is positioned within the set of recesses.

[0085] 36. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the set of external probes is mounted in the set of recesses by a snap-fit ​​engagement.

[0086] 37. A housing for a temperature sensor, the housing comprising: an outer surface extending between a first end and a second end; an inner surface defined by an internal channel extending between the first end and the second end; and a set of grooves disposed in the outer surface, the set of grooves extending between the first end and the second end.

[0087] 38. The housing according to any of the preceding clauses further includes a set of recesses disposed at the first end, the set of recesses extending between the inner surface and the outer surface.

[0088] 39. The housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the set of recesses defines a set of protrusions at the first end.

[0089] 40. The housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the set of grooves is aligned with the set of recesses, wherein the set of grooves terminates at the first end in the set of recesses.

[0090] 41. A temperature sensor comprising: a substrate having a first surface spaced apart from a second surface by a set of sidewalls, and a set of probes disposed on the substrate, wherein at least some of the probes are disposed on the first surface and at least some of the probes are disposed on the second surface.

[0091] 42. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the set of probes comprises a subset of resistance thermometers and a subset of thermocouples.

[0092] 43. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one resistance thermometer is disposed on the first surface and at least one resistance thermometer is disposed on the second surface.

[0093] 44. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the probes in the set of probes is sealed with a coating.

[0094] 45. A temperature sensor, comprising: a housing extending between a first end and a second end and including an outer surface; a first set of probes mounted to the housing; and a second set of probes, distinct from the first set of probes, also mounted to the housing.

[0095] 46. ​​The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first set of probes is a thermocouple and the second set of probes is a resistance thermometer.

[0096] 47. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first set of probes extends from the first end of the housing to the second end of the housing.

[0097] 48. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the set of external probes is mounted in the set of recesses by a snap-fit ​​engagement.

[0098] 49. A temperature sensor, comprising: a substrate having a first surface spaced apart from a second surface by a set of sidewalls, a first set of probes disposed on the substrate; and a second set of probes, the second set of probes being different from the first set of probes, the second set of probes being disposed on the substrate.

[0099] 50. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the set of probes comprises a subset of resistance thermometers and a subset of thermocouples.

[0100] 51. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one resistance thermometer is disposed on the first surface and at least one resistance thermometer is disposed on the second surface.

[0101] 52. The temperature sensor according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least some of the probes of the first group of probes and the second group of probes are disposed on the first surface, and at least some of the probes of the first group of probes and the second group of probes are disposed on the second surface.

[0102] Within the scope not yet described, different features and structures of the aspects may be combined or substituted for each other as needed. A feature not described in all examples is not to be interpreted as something that cannot be described in this way, but rather is done for the sake of brevity. Therefore, various features of different aspects may be mixed and matched as needed to form new aspects, whether or not the new aspects are explicitly described. All combinations or permutations of the features described herein are covered by this disclosure.

[0103] This written description uses examples to illustrate aspects of the disclosure described herein, including best practices, and also enables those skilled in the art to practice aspects of this disclosure, including making and using any apparatus or system and performing any combined methods. The patentable scope of aspects of this disclosure is defined by the claims, but may include other examples that would occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not indistinguishable from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially indistinguishable from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A temperature sensor, characterized in that, The temperature sensor includes: A substrate having a first surface spaced apart from a second surface by a set of sidewalls; A set of thermocouples, the set of thermocouples being disposed on the first surface of the substrate; and A resistance thermometer is disposed on the second surface of the substrate.

2. The temperature sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The substrate mentioned above is a printed circuit board.

3. The temperature sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The substrate is made of a material with high thermal conductivity and low electrical conductivity.

4. The temperature sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The substrate is formed as a shell, the outer surface defined by the shell is a first surface, and the inner surface defined by the shell is a second surface.

5. The temperature sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, It further includes at least one additional thermocouple disposed on the second surface.

6. The temperature sensor according to claim 5, characterized in that, It further includes at least one additional thermocouple disposed on the first surface.

7. The temperature sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, It further includes a controller disposed on the substrate and operatively connected to the set of thermocouples and the resistance thermometer.

8. A temperature sensor, characterized in that, The temperature sensor includes: a substrate having a first surface spaced apart from a second surface by a set of sidewalls; and a set of probes disposed on the substrate, wherein at least some of the probes are disposed on the first surface and at least some of the probes are disposed on the second surface.

9. The temperature sensor according to claim 8, characterized in that, It further includes a set of grooves formed on either the first surface or the second surface.

10. The temperature sensor according to claim 9, characterized in that, At least some of the grooves of the set of grooves are disposed on the first surface and at least one probe of the set of probes is positioned within at least one groove of the set of grooves.

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