Heat-Generating Element Control With Adaptive Temperature Offset
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for controlling ambient temperature using heat-generating elements, such as thermostats, face inaccuracies due to assumptions about maximum temperature offsets that do not account for environmental changes, leading to inefficient operation.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a heat-generating element and a temperature sensor, where the electric current is passed at 100% output for an initial time period, followed by recalculating the maximum error based on temperature differences and environmental changes, allowing for dynamic adjustment of the output proportion to accurately control ambient temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed maximum offset is assumed for a particular product based on factory testing, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to environmental changes affecting air circulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static, fixed maximum offset to a dynamic, adaptive offset determination process. The system performs calibration routines that measure the actual maximum offset under current environmental conditions, allowing the offset to adapt to changes in air circulation patterns caused by furniture movement, product relocation, or other environmental factors. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction by maintaining measurement precision while preserving ease of operation through automated calibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the maximum offset parameter based on environmental conditions. Instead of using a fixed factory-determined offset, the system changes the offset parameter through calibration measurements that account for actual operating conditions. The calibration process determines the specific maximum offset for the product in its installed environment, and this parameter is then used for accurate temperature compensation throughout operation.
2Manufacturing precision
If the maximum offset is determined in factory conditions without considering the installation environment, then manufacturing precision is improved through controlled testing, but adaptability deteriorates when environmental conditions change after installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing calibration measurements during the manufacturing or installation phase to establish the maximum offset before normal operation begins. The calibration routine is executed in advance to determine the specific offset characteristics of the product in its actual installation environment. This preliminary calibration ensures both manufacturing precision (through controlled measurement procedures) and adaptability (by capturing environment-specific characteristics) before the product enters regular use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies feedback by implementing a calibration routine that measures the actual temperature offset under current environmental conditions and uses this information to adjust the maximum offset parameter. The system provides feedback to itself about the real-world operating conditions and modifies its behavior accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures the system adapts to environmental changes while maintaining the precision of temperature measurements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the product environment changes over time (e.g., furniture moved, product relocated), then adaptability should improve, but measurement precision deteriorates if the maximum offset is not recalibrated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the maximum offset to change dynamically in response to environmental conditions. The system includes a calibration routine that can be executed at different times to update the offset parameter based on current environmental conditions. This dynamic recalibration capability ensures the system adapts to furniture movement, product relocation, or other environmental changes while maintaining measurement precision through up-to-date offset values.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing calibration routines that can be executed at regular intervals or triggered by specific events (such as product relocation or user request). This periodic recalibration ensures the maximum offset remains accurate despite environmental changes over time. The system balances the need for adaptability with the practical considerations of calibration frequency, allowing the offset to be updated periodically to maintain precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach provides more accurate and efficient control of ambient temperature by recalculating the maximum error and adjusting the output proportion, accounting for environmental changes and improving the system's operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
Joule heating (also referred to as ohmic heating or resistive heating) can cause errors in determining an ambient temperature
Implementation Method 2
a sensor for sensing temperatures is at least partially located in the space
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling a heat-generating element that generates heat when electric current is passed therethrough to control an ambient temperature within a space in which a sensor for sensing temperatures is at least partially located. The method includes sensing an initial temperature, and permitting passage of the electric current through the heat-generating element at 100 percent output for a preselected initial time period. After the electric current has passed through the heat-generating element for the preselected initial time period, a second temperature is sensed. A first temperature difference between the initial temperature and the second temperature is determined. A maximum error between a sensed temperature sensed at a selected time after the initial time period, and the ambient temperature at the selected time, is determined in accordance with a predetermined relationship between the first temperature difference and the maximum error.