Griddle Temperature Control Using Multi-Zone Sensor Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Achieving and maintaining a consistent temperature across different regions of a griddle is challenging due to variations in heat distribution, which affects cooking consistency and quality.
Innovation Solution
A temperature control system that uses sensors and burners to measure and adjust heat levels in real-time, allowing for precise temperature management within set ranges across the griddle surface, utilizing a controller to coordinate the burners and valves for optimal heat delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If open flame or electrical elements are used to heat the griddle, then the griddle can be heated to cooking temperature, but the temperature distribution across different regions becomes inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The griddle heating system is divided into multiple independent burner zones, each with its own temperature sensor and control mechanism. This segmentation allows each region to be controlled independently, achieving uniform temperature distribution across the entire griddle surface by addressing local temperature variations.
Solution Approach 2:
Temperature sensors are positioned in different regions of the griddle to provide real-time feedback on temperature distribution. The control system uses this feedback information to dynamically adjust burner output, ensuring consistent temperature across all regions despite variations in heat distribution patterns.
2Temperature
If multiple burners are used to heat different regions of the griddle, then temperature coverage is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple burner control functions are merged into a single integrated controller that receives temperature data from all sensor zones and coordinates all burners through a unified control algorithm. This consolidation manages system complexity by providing centralized control while maintaining the temperature coverage benefits of multiple burners.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed as a multi-functional device that performs temperature monitoring, analysis, and burner regulation for multiple zones simultaneously. This universal controller handles all temperature control tasks across the griddle surface, reducing the need for separate control mechanisms for each burner.
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
Ensures predictable and consistent cooking results by maintaining desired temperature ranges across the griddle surface, enhancing cooking efficiency and quality.
Implementation Method 1
The griddle is most commonly a flat metal plate composed of cast or wrought iron, aluminum or carbon steel. Griddles are commonly heated directly or indirectly by open flame and/or electrical elements.
Implementation Method 2
A temperature measurement of a region of a griddle top is obtained. The temperature measurement is captured using one or more sensors.
Data Source
AI summary
Implementations claimed and described herein provide system and methods for controlling griddle temperature. In one implementation, a temperature measurement of a region of a griddle top is obtained. The temperature measurement is captured using one or more sensors. A set temperature range is obtained for the region of the griddle top. The temperature measurement is compared to the set temperature range. One or more burners are adjusted based on whether the temperature measurement is within the set temperature range. The temperature of the region of the griddle top is maintained within the set temperature range using the one or more burners.