Burner Fuel Flow Control Using Thermocouple Temperature Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional cooking and heating apparatuses lack automated temperature control mechanisms, relying on manual adjustments based on observed temperature states, which can lead to inefficiencies and inconsistencies in achieving desired temperatures.
Innovation Solution
A temperature control system that includes a flow control apparatus without a regulator, a thermocouple for sensing thermal states, and an electronic controller to automatically adjust the flow rate of a flammable fluid between predefined settings to maintain a desired temperature, integrated with a user interface for inputting temperature set points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual temperature adjustment is used, then device complexity is reduced, but temperature control precision and consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a thermocouple to continuously monitor the thermal state of the cooking apparatus and feeds this information back to an electronic controller. The controller automatically adjusts the flow rate of flammable fluid through a flow control apparatus based on the temperature feedback, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains precise temperature control without requiring manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces manual mechanical temperature adjustment with an automated electronic control system. The electronic controller substitutes for manual observation and adjustment, using electrical signals from the thermocouple to control the flow control apparatus, thereby eliminating the need for complex manual regulation mechanisms while achieving superior temperature precision.
2Measurement precision
If automated temperature control is implemented, then temperature control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to be self-regulating, with the thermocouple continuously monitoring temperature and the electronic controller automatically adjusting fuel flow without external intervention. The flow control apparatus responds autonomously to controller signals, creating a self-service temperature control system that maintains precision while minimizing the need for complex external control mechanisms.
3Speed
If continuous fuel flow adjustment is used, then temperature control responsiveness is improved, but energy loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control apparatus operates by periodically switching between different flow rates rather than continuous adjustment. The electronic controller cycles the flow control apparatus between a first flow rate and a second flow rate based on temperature feedback, creating a pulsed or periodic action that maintains temperature responsiveness while reducing energy waste associated with continuous high-rate fuel flow.
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 system enables precise and automated temperature control, improving cooking consistency and expanding the range of culinary options by allowing for more accurate and automatic temperature management in cooking appliances.
Implementation Method 1
A thermocouple may be located in the vicinity of the burner, for converting a sensed thermal state into an electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
A temperature control system for safely controlling the rate of flow of a flammable fluid at generally constant pressure is disclosed. The system may include a flow control apparatus that is free of a regulator mechanism, for affecting the flow of the fluid. The flow control apparatus may be operable between at least a first flow rate and a second flow rate, and may have at least one upstream opening and at least one downstream opening. The system may also include a first burner in fluid communication with the downstream opening of the flow control apparatus and a conduit in fluid communication at one end thereof with the upstream opening of the flow control apparatus, and configured at the other end thereof for connection to a fuel supply. A thermocouple may be located in the vicinity of the burner or an appliance used in conjunction with the burner. The thermocouple converts a sensed thermal state into an electrical signal. An electronic controller, in communication with the flow control apparatus, for activating the flow control apparatus to one of said first and second flow rates, and being in communication with the thermocouple for receiving the electrical signal from the thermocouple is also provided. An interface connected to the controller for manually inputting a desired temperature may be included, wherein the controller is operable to automatically cycle the flow control apparatus between the first and second flow rates until the temperature sensed by the thermocouple is similar to the desired temperature.