Infrared Food Temp Probe with Camera for Error-Free Logging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual temperature acquisition for food products in restaurants is prone to errors and deception, as it relies on manual reading and logging, which can lead to incorrect data entry or intentional falsification.
Innovation Solution
A temperature sensing apparatus coupled to a mobile electronic device that includes an infrared probe and camera, allowing for simultaneous temperature measurement and image capture, with object recognition to automatically identify food products and ensure accurate data logging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual temperature acquisition and logging is used, then the process is simple and requires minimal equipment, but the reliability of temperature records deteriorates due to errors and deception
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the temperature probe with a mobile electronic device (smartphone or tablet) into an integrated system. The temperature sensor, camera, and data processing capabilities are merged into a single portable unit, eliminating the need for separate manual logging equipment while improving reliability through automated digital recording.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical processes (handwriting on paper forms, physical thermometer reading) with electronic and optical systems. The mobile device uses digital sensors to automatically capture temperature data and stores it electronically, eliminating human error in reading and transcription while maintaining operational simplicity.
2Measurement precision
If automated temperature sensing with image capture is implemented, then measurement accuracy and reliability improve, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile electronic device performs multiple functions: it captures temperature readings via the probe, takes photographs of the food product, automatically logs the data, and can transmit information. This multi-functionality is achieved using a single common device rather than separate specialized equipment, reducing overall system complexity while improving measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically identifies the food product using image recognition, correlates it with the temperature reading, and logs the data without requiring manual intervention. The mobile device self-manages the entire process from measurement to recording, eliminating the need for complex manual操作流程 while maintaining high measurement accuracy.
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 system reduces user error by providing visual confirmation of the measured product and automating the logging process, ensuring accurate and reliable temperature records for food safety and compliance.
Implementation Method 1
an infrared sensor for acquiring a temperature of a food product
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for logging temperatures of food products using a temperature assembly including a housing and a temperature probe, e.g., an infrared probe, for acquiring a temperature of a food product, and a mobile electronic device including a camera, a communication interface for communicating with the temperature assembly, a processor configured to acquire a temperature reading from the temperature assembly and an image from the camera when the temperature reading is acquired, and memory for storing the temperature reading and image.