Ambient Temperature Determination Using Transient Device Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic devices face temperature increases during operation, leading to user discomfort and potential handling issues, as existing methods fail to accurately determine ambient temperature for effective temperature control.
Innovation Solution
The method involves determining a device's initial temperature, applying a temperature stimulus until a first threshold is reached, allowing the device to cool, and measuring the temperature change over time to calculate ambient temperature, adjusting the peak temperature based on this determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If power is provided to the electronic device, then the device can operate, but the temperature of the device increases causing user discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary temperature characterization by applying a temperature stimulus and measuring the cooling curve before normal operation. This preliminary action establishes a thermal model that enables predictive temperature management during subsequent operations, preventing overheating before it occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the cooling curve and uses the measured ambient temperature and thermal characteristics to dynamically adjust power delivery. This feedback mechanism ensures the device operates within safe temperature ranges while maximizing performance, directly addressing user comfort concerns.
2Measurement precision
If ambient temperature is not accurately determined, then temperature control is ineffective, but implementing temperature control requires precise ambient temperature measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses its own thermal response to ambient conditions to determine the ambient temperature. By measuring its own cooling curve after a controlled stimulus, the device self-characterizes its thermal environment without requiring external sensors or complex measurement systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the thermal state of the device by applying a controlled temperature stimulus and then measuring the rate of temperature change during cooling. This parameter change approach transforms the device from a passive temperature victim to an active thermal environment sensor.
3Measurement precision
If the device cools for a predetermined amount of time, then ambient temperature can be determined, but this process takes time away from productive operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies a temperature stimulus that intentionally exceeds normal operating conditions, creating an exaggerated thermal response. This partial/excessive action accelerates the cooling process and amplifies the thermal signal, allowing ambient temperature determination in a shorter time frame that minimizes impact on productivity.
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 enables precise ambient temperature determination, allowing devices to safely operate within tolerable temperature ranges, optimizing charging and other operational modes by adjusting peak temperatures based on environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
A change in temperature of the device is then determined upon expiration of the predetermined amount of time
Implementation Method 2
the device is allowed to cool for a predetermined amount of time
Implementation Method 3
the device is allowed to cool for a predetermined amount of time
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments described herein are directed to determining an ambient temperature of an environment in which a device is operating. In some embodiments, the ambient temperature of the environment is determined by determining an initial temperature of the device and also determining when the temperature of the device reaches a first temperature threshold. When the temperature of the device reaches the first temperature threshold, the device is allowed to cool for a predetermined amount of time. Upon expiration of the amount of time, a change in temperature of the device over the amount of time is detected. The detected change in temperature is then used to determine an ambient temperature of the environment in which the device is operating.