Filiform Shape Memory Temperature Label
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temperature monitoring solutions for pharmaceuticals and other fields fail to effectively detect exposure to minimum temperature thresholds, are difficult to miniaturize for label form, and are not easily integratable with RFID systems for real-time remote monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A temperature-sensitive label featuring a filiform shape memory member restrained by a filiform bias member with an engaging seat, which transitions from austenitic to martensitic phase upon exposure to low temperatures, causing irreversible disengagement and visual or electrical alerts, and can be integrated with RFID systems for remote monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing temperature monitoring solutions are used, then maximum temperature monitoring is effective, but minimum temperature threshold detection fails
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs shape memory alloys that undergo phase transitions at specific temperature thresholds. By selecting alloys with different transition temperatures, the system can detect both maximum and minimum temperature thresholds through changes in the physical state of the alloy, thereby achieving reliable minimum temperature monitoring that complements existing maximum temperature solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the phase transition properties of shape memory alloys between austenitic and martensitic phases. When the temperature reaches the critical threshold, the alloy undergoes a phase change that triggers a mechanical movement, providing a reliable and visible indication of minimum temperature exposure.
2Measurement precision
If complex calibration processes are used to control thermal conductivity, then temperature monitoring accuracy improves, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shape memory alloy members are designed to undergo phase transitions at predetermined temperature thresholds through their inherent material properties. This eliminates the need for complex external calibration processes, as the alloy's phase change temperature is determined by its composition and structure, which can be controlled during manufacturing without requiring post-production calibration.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of calibrating thermal conductivity through complex processes, the invention changes the approach by using shape memory alloys with intrinsic phase transition temperatures. The critical temperature parameter is built into the material selection and initial manufacturing, simplifying the overall device complexity while maintaining monitoring accuracy.
3Reliability
If vacuum or fluid containment is used to maintain thermal properties, then temperature control improves, but manufacturing scalability and mass production become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for vacuum or fluid containment systems by directly using shape memory alloy members that respond to temperature changes through phase transitions. This extraction of unnecessary containment components simplifies the device structure, making it suitable for mass production while maintaining reliable thermal response characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs simple shape memory alloy members without complex containment structures, making the device inexpensive to manufacture and suitable for disposable or single-use applications. This approach enables mass production while maintaining the essential temperature monitoring function.
4Reliability
If large-scale devices are used for temperature monitoring, then monitoring capability is sufficient, but adaptability to various item shapes and miniaturization is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the temperature monitoring function into discrete shape memory alloy members that can be independently configured. These segmented members can be attached to various surfaces and shapes, providing adaptable temperature monitoring for items of different sizes and geometries while maintaining reliable monitoring capability through the cumulative effect of multiple alloy members.
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
The solution provides stable, reproducible, and miniaturized temperature monitoring capable of detecting exposure to critical low temperatures, preventing false triggers and enabling real-time remote monitoring, suitable for various item shapes and large-scale use.
Implementation Method 1
the shape memory member performs a phase transition, from austenitic phase to martensitic phase, which reduces its strength and causes its irreversible disengagement from the restraint
Implementation Method 2
the shape memory member performs a phase transition, from austenitic phase to martensitic phase
Data Source
AI summary
A temperature-sensitive label is described. The temperature-sensitive label has a container provided with means for the application on an item to be monitored and housing a temperature-sensitive system made up of a filiform shape memory member. The filiform shape memory member is restrained to a filiform bias member provided with an engaging seat, and is introduced in such a way that in case of exposure to a temperature lower than a preset critical threshold temperature (Tc), the filiform shape memory member performs a phase transition, causing an irreversible disengagement condition visible through a transparent window.