Cooking Hob Infrared Sensor Array for Compact Hazard Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hob monitoring systems are costly and not compact, as they rely on infrared cameras which are expensive and space-consuming, necessitating a more economical and space-efficient solution for monitoring cooking areas.
Innovation Solution
A hob device with a monitoring unit featuring a sensor array of infrared sensors, including thermocouples arranged in a compact design, which records and evaluates data to detect cooking area conditions, enabling efficient image generation and hazard detection without the need for a conventional infrared camera.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an infrared camera is used for monitoring the cooking area, then the monitoring function is achieved, but the production cost increases and the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the monitoring function into multiple discrete infrared sensors arranged in a sensor array rather than using a single integrated infrared camera. Each sensor element independently detects infrared radiation, and their collective data provides comprehensive monitoring coverage, achieving the same functional reliability as a camera while using lower-cost individual components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the expensive infrared camera with multiple inexpensive infrared sensor elements that can be individually manufactured at low cost. These sensor elements are arranged in an array to collectively perform the monitoring function, significantly reducing the overall production cost while maintaining adequate monitoring capability
2Reliability
If an infrared camera is used for monitoring the cooking area, then the monitoring function is achieved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the monitoring system into multiple small sensor elements arranged in a compact array, replacing the bulkier infrared camera. This segmentation allows the monitoring function to be achieved with a much smaller overall device volume, as each sensor element requires minimal space and they can be densely packed in a two-dimensional arrangement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point detection approach (camera) to a two-dimensional sensor array arrangement. By distributing sensors across a planar surface, the system achieves comprehensive area monitoring while maintaining a compact footprint, effectively utilizing spatial dimensions to reduce the overall device volume
3Ease of manufacture
If thermocouples are used as infrared sensors, then production cost decreases and device size decreases, but the sensor type changes from optical to thermal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical detection mechanism of traditional infrared sensors with a thermal detection mechanism using thermocouples. Instead of detecting infrared radiation optically, the thermocouples measure temperature changes caused by absorbed infrared energy, substituting an optical system with a thermal-electrical system that is simpler and cheaper to manufacture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from direct infrared radiation measurement to temperature differential measurement. By using thermocouples that respond to temperature changes rather than optical properties, the system achieves the same monitoring function through a different physical parameter, enabling the use of inexpensive, simple thermocouple technology
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
This configuration allows for a cost-effective, compact monitoring system that can detect cooking area conditions and hazards, ensuring safe and efficient operation by differentiating between normal and unintentional heating situations, thereby preventing accidents.
Implementation Method 1
A particularly economical design of the monitoring unit can be achieved if the infrared sensors forming the sensor array have thermocouples. A thermocouple is understood to be in particular an element that produces an electrical potential based on a temperature difference.
Data Source
AI summary
A hob device is provided that has a monitoring unit to monitor a cooking area of a hob. The monitoring unit includes a sensor array of multiple infrared sensors to record infrared light.