Bimetallic Washer Temperature Recorder with Magnetic Reset
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a simple, clear, and resettable temperature recorder with memory capacity that can function without external energy sources, suitable for various applications including water purification processes, and must be easily readable by individuals regardless of language or visual ability.
Innovation Solution
A temperature recorder using a bimetallic washer with hysteresis and a screen pattern mechanism, where a bimetallic washer changes shape to indicate temperature thresholds, and a piston with a screen pattern changes from a 'sad red man' to a 'happy green man' to visually signal temperature reach, with a reset mechanism using magnets for easy reset functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical temperature recorder with memory capacity is used, then the ability to indicate maximum temperature without external energy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional segments: a bimetallic indicator element that responds to temperature changes, a separate memory mechanism using magnetic attraction, and a reset system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, achieving reliable temperature indication and memory capacity while keeping individual components simple and manageable.
2Ease of operation
If a clear visual indication system is implemented, then the ease of operation for all users is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs color changes in the visual indication system to convey temperature status clearly. Different colors represent different temperature states, making the information immediately recognizable to users regardless of their reading ability or language. This use of color coding provides intuitive, universal communication while maintaining relatively simple device structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a reset function is added to the temperature recorder, then the adaptability for repeated use is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reset function is designed to be easily activated by the user through a simple manual operation. The self-service principle allows the user to reset the temperature recorder themselves without requiring external assistance or complex mechanisms. This approach enhances adaptability for repeated use while minimizing the complexity of the reset mechanism.
4Speed
If thermal conduction is improved to quickly indicate temperature changes, then the speed of indication is improved, but the risk of false indication from external heat sources increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary element (such as a thermally conductive but mechanically isolated component) between the temperature sensing point and the indication mechanism. This intermediary allows thermal energy to be conducted quickly for accurate temperature detection while preventing direct thermal contact that could cause false indications from external heat sources. The intermediary acts as a buffer that transmits thermal information without transmitting thermal interference.
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
The solution provides a clear, energy-independent temperature indication and memory function, ensuring the desired temperature is reached without continuous monitoring, and allows for easy reset, making it accessible and usable in diverse settings, including water purification processes.
Implementation Method 1
A circular mechanical pre-stressed bimetallic washer is placed at one end of the pipe, the tubular cover, the box, which washer is designed to change at x centigrades the desired temperature
Implementation Method 2
Hysteresis means the direction dependant temperature difference which is between the change and the return of the shape of the bimetal
Implementation Method 3
The circular bimetal washer is placed in a suitable shaped seat in a thermally well conductive material, e.g. aluminium. In this way the washer can be brought to change without being touched, simultaneously as e.g. the water temperature is conducted to the bimetal washer
Implementation Method 4
When the reset button on the upper part of the pipe is pressed the magnet on the piston and the magnet on the button will act repulsively against each other and the piston will hereby be pressed backwardly to its initial position
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
A temperature recorder in the form of a tubular cover and with an inside piston, in which an altered position of the piston is carried out by a mechanical movement released from a bimetal washer, which, when making a sudden change, changes its form from convex to concave when a determined temperature level is reached. Two line-formed screen patterns, a picture formed by coloured lines on the inner surface of the tubular cover, shows a certain pattern in the original position, and a different pattern is shown when an inside piston has been moved vertically inside the outer tubular cover. Friction between the outside of the piston and the inner surface of the tubular cover forms a braking means. A reset button can by means of a magnet or a spring repulse or press back the piston which is in the top of the tubular cover and has a magnet and the piston will be pressed back within the tubular cover to its original position and the first patterns will be shown clearly again by the line-formed screen pattern. The bimetal washer will assume its original form and is prepared to start again when the temperature is increased or decreased.