Connector Thermal Sensor Integration for Food Product Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current machines for distributing liquid or semi-liquid food products, such as gelato or ice cream, lack direct monitoring of product temperature within the container bag, which can affect product preservation and quality during distribution.
Innovation Solution
A connector system with a thermal sensor integrated into the bag allows continuous temperature monitoring from when the bag is placed in the machine to when the product is released, ensuring accurate temperature control and preservation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a peristaltic pump is used to distribute liquid or semi-liquid food products from containers, then the distribution function is achieved, but the temperature of the product cannot be directly monitored within the container
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal sensor is nested inside the container bag through a through-opening in the connector body, allowing temperature monitoring within the container without requiring separate external sensing systems. The sensor protrudes through the connector body into the bag interior, enabling direct measurement of product temperature while maintaining a relatively simple overall system structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector serves as an intermediary component that integrates the thermal sensor into the existing container-pump system. The connector body with its through-opening and threading provides a medium to insert and secure the thermal sensor inside the container while maintaining the connection between the container and pump, thus enabling temperature monitoring without fundamentally altering the system architecture.
2Reliability
If temperature monitoring is implemented using a thermal sensor in the container, then product preservation is improved, but the connector structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides the mechanical connection between the container and pump through its threading, creates a sealed passage for the thermal sensor through its body with through-opening, and secures the sensor in position. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and maintains reliable product preservation while avoiding excessive structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body is segmented into functional portions: a threaded portion for mechanical attachment to the container inlet, a body portion with a through-opening for sensor passage, and a sealing portion. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function while keeping the overall design straightforward and manufacturable.
3Measurement precision
If the thermal sensor protrudes through the connector body, then temperature measurement accuracy is improved, but the risk of contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal sensor is extracted through the connector body via a dedicated through-opening, allowing the sensing element to be positioned inside the container for accurate temperature measurement while the connector body acts as a protective barrier. The sensor can be removed or sealed at the external end of the through-opening, isolating it from direct contact with the product while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector with its through-opening for the thermal sensor is designed as a single-use or disposable component. After use, the entire connector assembly including the sensor can be discarded, eliminating contamination risks associated with reusable sensors. This approach prioritizes product safety over sensor reuse, accepting that the connector is a low-cost, single-function component.
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 solution enables continuous and accurate temperature monitoring of the product, enhancing preservation and quality by maintaining optimal conditions throughout the distribution process.
Implementation Method 1
a thermal sensor (10) supported so as to be positioned, in use, inside said container (2)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~7
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A connector is provided for connecting a deformable bag (2) for liquid or semi-liquid products to a machine (3) for distributing the product and comprises a body (4) with an opening (5) passing therethrough and acting as a product outlet and connected to the machine (3), with a thermal sensor (10) supported so as to be positioned inside the bag (2), in contact with the liquid or semi-liquid product. The sensor (10) is fixed in a second opening (25) that is parallel or almost parallel to the product transit opening (5) and a connecting cable (11) comes out of the end of the body intended to remain outside the bag (2). Also described is the assembly formed by the bag and the connector and the machine for distributing a liquid or semi-liquid food product supplied with the bag (2) equipped with the connector (1).