Electronic temperature control system for a grill
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grill temperature control systems are unpredictable due to environmental conditions and lack a reliable method to maintain the grill surface temperature, as they primarily rely on air temperature measurements rather than surface temperature control.
Innovation Solution
A temperature controller system for electric grills that includes a selector for setting desired grill surface temperature, a contact temperature sensor, and a controller to adjust the heat output from an electric heat source, allowing for precise temperature maintenance and easy cleaning of the cooking element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a temperature gauge is placed on the grill lid to measure air temperature, then the user can see temperature readings, but the user cannot reliably predict the grill surface temperature and cannot automatically control the heat output
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where a temperature sensor continuously monitors the grill surface temperature and feeds this information back to the controller. The controller automatically adjusts the heat source output based on the temperature deviation from the setpoint, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains precise temperature control without requiring manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical control system (user adjusting knobs based on visual air temperature gauges) with an automated electronic control system. The electronic temperature sensor and controller substitute for manual user operation, automatically adjusting the heat source based on real-time surface temperature measurements.
2Measurement precision
If the temperature sensor is embedded in the cooking element, then the cooking element temperature can be accurately measured, but the cooking element becomes difficult to remove for cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the temperature sensing function from the cooking element structure. The temperature sensor is placed in thermal contact with the cooking element through a thermal interface, allowing the sensor to be separated from the cooking element. This segmentation enables the cooking element to be removed for cleaning while the sensor remains in place, maintaining both measurement accuracy and ease of maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a thermal interface or mounting structure as an intermediary between the temperature sensor and the cooking element. This intermediary maintains thermal contact for accurate temperature measurement while allowing the cooking element to be independently removed and reinstalled, solving the conflict between measurement accuracy and ease of cleaning.
3Device complexity
If the grill uses manual control knobs with high and low settings, then the device complexity is low, but the grill surface temperature is not readily predictable and cannot be maintained at a desired temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where the controller continuously monitors the actual grill surface temperature and automatically adjusts the heat source output to maintain the desired temperature. This closed-loop feedback mechanism replaces manual high/low knob settings with automated temperature regulation, significantly improving temperature control reliability while maintaining user-friendly operation through a simple temperature selector.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from discrete manual control parameters (high/low knob settings) to continuous automated control based on actual temperature measurements. The controller dynamically adjusts the heat source output parameter based on real-time temperature feedback, enabling precise maintenance of any desired temperature within the operating range rather than being limited to fixed high or low settings.
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 set and maintain the grill surface temperature accurately, ensuring consistent cooking results while allowing for easy cleaning and adjustment of cooking elements, such as grill grates or griddles.
Implementation Method 1
A temperature sensor is in contact with the cooking element
Implementation Method 2
A heat source is coupled to the controller and the controller is configured to adjust heat output from the heat source
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A grill having a control system that monitors the temperature of the grill grate and adjusts heat output to the grill according to a temperature selected by the user. The grill grate includes channels on the rear face thereof, one channel contains the electrically powered heat source and the other channel contains the temperature sensor. A drip pan is located below the grill grate. The grill grate is removable from the grill and removable from the two channels for cleaning. Multiple zones are provided, each with a controller that allows the user to set the desired temperature of the grill grate/grilling surface.