Elastomeric Band Temperature Sensor for Beverage Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temperature measurement devices for containers holding beverages or liquids are either impractical, prone to incorrect readings due to ambient temperature interference, or costly to manufacture, and lack accuracy in measuring the contents' temperature.
Innovation Solution
A temperature sensing device with an elastomeric band that snugly fits around the container, featuring a thermally conductive material and an electronic temperature sensor, which communicates wirelessly to notify users when target temperatures are reached, and includes a delay for thermal conductivity adjustments based on container material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a C-shaped clamp is used to measure bottle temperature, then the device structure is simple, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to gaps between the clamp and bottle surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an elastomeric band instead of a rigid C-shaped clamp. The band can stretch and conform to the bottle's surface, eliminating gaps between the sensor and bottle. This flexible material allows the device to adapt to different bottle shapes and sizes while maintaining continuous contact for accurate temperature measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the measuring device from rigid (C-shaped clamp) to flexible (elastomeric band). This parameter change allows the device to deform and wrap around the bottle, ensuring complete surface contact and eliminating air gaps that would otherwise insulate the sensor from the bottle surface.
2Device complexity
If a temperature sensor is placed in direct contact with the bottle surface, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to ambient temperature interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an elastomeric band as an intermediary between the temperature sensor and the bottle surface. This band serves dual functions: it provides mechanical support and positioning for the sensor, and it acts as a thermal interface that maintains stable contact pressure. The band isolates the sensor from direct exposure to ambient air while ensuring good thermal contact with the bottle.
3Quantity of substance
If periodic manual temperature checking is performed, then no additional device is needed, but the loss of time increases due to repeated cork removal and thermometer insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous temperature monitoring by keeping the sensor in constant contact with the bottle surface through the elastomeric band. Unlike manual checking that requires repeated insertion and removal of thermometers, this device continuously measures temperature without interrupting the beverage or requiring user intervention, thereby eliminating time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is self-adhering through the elastic properties of the band, which automatically conforms to and maintains contact with the bottle surface. Once applied, the device monitors temperature autonomously without requiring user interaction for cork removal, thermometer insertion, or reading interpretation.
4Speed
If beer is quickly chilled in the freezer, then the cooling speed increases, but the reliability deteriorates due to risk of bottle or can shattering from freezing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous temperature monitoring that provides real-time feedback on the beverage's temperature during freezing. This allows users to stop the freezing process before the beverage reaches dangerous temperatures that would cause expansion and shattering, while still achieving rapid cooling to the desired serving temperature.
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
Provides accurate and user-friendly temperature monitoring for beverage and liquid containers, preventing over-chilling or freezing, while being cost-effective and easy to manufacture.
Implementation Method 1
featuring a thermally conductive material and an electronic temperature sensor
Implementation Method 2
A temperature sensing device with an elastomeric band that snugly fits around the container
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a sensing device for measuring the temperature of a container enclosing a fluid that is stationary or in motion, the sensing device comprising: a band for completely encircling and conforming to the outer surface of the container;a thermally conductive material disposed on a housing portion that abuts the surface of the container on one side when the device is mounted on the container and on a second side abuts the temperature sensor;a wireless communication means in communication with the sensor, wherein the wireless communication means transmits temperature data to a remote wireless device, thereby notifying a user when a temperature measurement falls above or below a target temperature or range thereof; andthe band being made of elastomeric material so that when mounted on the container, or tightened therearound, the temperature sensor abuts snugly against the thermally conductive material.