Multi-Layer GN Container With RFID Temperature Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
GN containers lack temperature-dependent control for cooking and freezing processes due to their construction and material limitations, which restricts precise temperature measurement and control, especially when made of induction-capable materials.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a transmitting and/or receiving device, specifically an RFID transponder, within the multi-layer material of the GN container allows for temperature information recording and control without the need for a thick base, enabling precise temperature-dependent cooking and freezing by utilizing radio frequency technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a temperature sensor is integrated into the base of the cookware, then temperature-dependent control of the cooking process is enabled, but the base must be relatively thick which complicates the construction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the temperature sensor from the base construction and relocates it to the side wall of the cookware. This allows temperature measurement without requiring a thick base, thereby enabling temperature-dependent control while maintaining a simple base construction suitable for induction heating.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves the temperature sensor from the vertical dimension (base thickness) to the lateral dimension (side wall). By placing the sensor in the side wall rather than the base, the solution utilizes a different spatial dimension to achieve temperature measurement without compromising base thickness or construction simplicity.
2Temperature
If the cookware is made entirely of induction-capable material, then good thermal conductivity and magnetic properties are achieved, but the wall thickness becomes too small to accommodate a temperature sensor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by relocating the temperature sensor from the base (where wall thickness is insufficient) to the side wall of the cookware. This dimensional relocation allows the use of thin induction-capable material throughout while still providing adequate space for sensor integration in the side wall region.
3Measurement precision
If a hole is provided in the base for the temperature sensor, then temperature measurement is enabled, but the base structure is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the temperature sensor from the base and relocates it to the side wall. This eliminates the need for holes or openings in the base structure, thereby maintaining the structural integrity and strength of the base while still enabling accurate temperature measurement through the sensor positioned in the side wall.
4Measurement precision
If the temperature sensor is placed in the transition region between base and side wall, then temperature can be measured, but only the outer circumference temperature is measured which gives indirect and imprecise food temperature determination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the temperature sensor on the outer surface of the side wall, which is thermally coupled to the food. This placement provides direct temperature information that cushions against the uncertainty of indirect measurement, enabling more accurate determination of food temperature by directly sensing the thermal state where food contact occurs.
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 precise temperature control and recording of the treatment history of the container contents, allowing for intelligent temperature management and versatile application beyond mere warming or cooling, with improved thermal conductivity and reduced risk from high temperatures.
Implementation Method 1
the transmitting and/or receiving device comprises at least one transponder, in particular an RFID transponder
Implementation Method 2
the container consists in its entirety of a multi-layer material made of several layers attached to one another
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to an intelligent GN (gastronorm) container (10) which, as a whole, is constituted of a composite material from a plurality of layers (12, 14, 16, 18, 20) fastened one on top of the other. At least one transmitting and/or receiving device (22) for at least one temperature information is integrated into the composite material. The temperature information is used to control a cooking process in a temperature-dependent manner.