Dynamic Temperature Threshold Switch Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temperature switches in computer systems can only monitor against fixed high and low temperature thresholds, lacking the ability to dynamically adjust thresholds in response to changing temperature conditions, which may lead to inadequate cooling management and potential component damage.
Innovation Solution
A temperature switch with a logic device that selects from multiple predetermined thresholds based on input signals, causing interrupts and incrementing thresholds as temperatures rise, allowing for dynamic adjustment of monitoring levels to prevent overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a temperature switch with fixed predetermined thresholds is used, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but the adaptability to changing temperature conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic threshold selection by allowing the temperature switch to automatically increment between multiple predetermined thresholds (e.g., from 70°C to 100°C) based on detected temperature conditions. This dynamic adjustment capability resolves the contradiction by providing adaptability to changing temperature conditions while maintaining a relatively simple device structure through automated threshold progression rather than requiring complex manual configuration systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the temperature threshold parameter dynamically during operation. The temperature switch monitors temperature and automatically transitions between different threshold values (first threshold, second threshold, etc.) based on whether temperature excursions are detected. This parameter change approach enables the system to adapt to varying thermal conditions without increasing device complexity, as the parameter adjustment is performed automatically by the temperature switch logic.
2Reliability
If multiple predetermined temperature thresholds are implemented with automatic incrementing, then the adaptability and temperature management effectiveness are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the temperature monitoring function into multiple discrete threshold levels (first threshold, second threshold, and potentially additional thresholds). Each threshold represents a distinct temperature level that triggers specific system responses. This segmentation improves reliability by providing granular temperature monitoring at multiple levels, while the complexity is managed through the modular nature of threshold-based detection that can be implemented using standard temperature switch circuitry.
Solution Approach 2:
The temperature switch implements a feedback mechanism where the output signal from the temperature sensor feeds back into the threshold selection logic. When temperature exceeds a current threshold, the system receives feedback and automatically increments to the next threshold level. This feedback loop enhances monitoring reliability by continuously adapting the threshold based on actual temperature conditions, while the feedback mechanism is achieved through relatively simple circuit logic rather than complex control systems.
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 effective and adaptive temperature monitoring, preventing overheating by dynamically adjusting thresholds, thereby extending the operational lifespan of heat-generating components in computer systems.
Implementation Method 1
The temperature switch has a temperature sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprising a temperature switch and a logic device, and a method of implementing multiple dynamic temperature thresholds. The temperature switch has a temperature sensor, a temperature threshold select input, and an output to a temperature threshold interrupt line, wherein the temperature switch selects a current temperature threshold from multiple predetermined temperature thresholds as determined by a state of the temperature threshold select input. The temperature switch causes an interrupt assertion on the temperature threshold interrupt line in response to the temperature sensor indicating a sensed temperature that exceeds the temperature threshold. The logic device has an input coupled to the temperature threshold interrupt line and a temperature threshold select output coupled to the temperature threshold select input of the temperature switch. The logic device automatically increments the temperature threshold select output in response to detecting an interrupt assertion on the temperature threshold interrupt line.