Cookware Temperature Sensing with Heat Shield for Probe Protection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cookware temperature control methods rely on trial and error, as different cookware and burner combinations produce varying cooking temperatures for the same burner settings, making it difficult to achieve precise temperature matching.
Innovation Solution
A cooking pan with a thermal probe and gauge assembly that attaches to the handle, allowing for real-time temperature monitoring and display, featuring a shield to protect the probe from radiant heat and deformation due to heat exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a thermal probe is exposed to radiant heat for temperature detection, then temperature measurement capability is improved, but the probe undergoes deformation and damage due to heat exposure
Solution Approach 1:
A shield made of heat-resistant material is positioned between the thermal probe and the radiant heat source. This intermediary component blocks direct exposure of the probe to high temperatures while allowing the probe to still detect temperature changes in the pan body, thus protecting the probe from deformation while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The shield converts the harmful radiant heat into a protective barrier. By strategically positioning the shield, the patent transforms the heat exposure that would normally damage the probe into an opportunity to protect the probe while still enabling temperature detection through the shielded area
2Device complexity
If traditional trial and error methods are used for temperature control, then device complexity is reduced, but temperature control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the thermal probe continuously monitors the pan body temperature and the thermal gauge displays real-time temperature readings to the user. This feedback loop enables users to adjust burner settings based on actual temperature measurements, achieving precise temperature control without complex automated systems
Solution Approach 2:
The temperature monitoring system enables the cook to self-regulate the heating process by observing the thermal gauge readings and adjusting the burner accordingly. This self-service approach provides precise temperature control while keeping the system simple, as the user performs the control function rather than requiring an automated control system
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
Enables users to accurately control and monitor cooking temperatures, ensuring optimal cooking conditions and extending the lifespan of cookware by maintaining temperatures within a specified range.
Implementation Method 1
A thermal probe can extend at least partially into the hole. The thermal probe can be configured to detect a temperature of the pan body
Implementation Method 2
A shield can surround at least a portion of the thermal probe. The shield can be arranged to block the thermal probe from radiant heat
Data Source
AI summary
Cookware is provided having a temperature sensing assembly for indicating a temperature of the cookware. In one embodiment, a cooking pan is provided having a pan body with a cooking surface and a heating surface opposite the cooking surface. A handle can be attached to the pan body, and a thermal gauge can be mounted on the handle. A thermal probe can extend from the gauge into the pan body to measure a temperature of the pan body. In some embodiments, a shield can surround at least a portion of the thermal probe to block the thermal probe from radiant heat.