Jar Lid Temperature Sensor for Precise Canning Sterilization Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current canning processes lack accurate temperature monitoring and control, leading to potential contamination and safety issues during the canning of foodstuffs, especially when processing low-acid foods which require higher temperatures.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a jar lid with a probe chamber and an interface module that communicates with a receiver to monitor and display temperature data, enabling precise temperature control and user prompts for safe canning processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional canning processes are used without temperature monitoring, then the equipment and process are simple, but the temperature control accuracy is poor leading to safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual temperature monitoring methods with electronic temperature sensors and digital processing systems. The receiver processes temperature signals electronically and provides automated control, substituting mechanical/manual temperature checking with electronic measurement and control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically monitors temperature and provides control signals without requiring continuous manual intervention. The processor receives temperature signals, compares them against target values, and generates control signals autonomously, allowing the system to self-regulate the canning process.
2Reliability
If higher temperatures are used for low-acid food canning, then the sterilization effectiveness is improved, but the risk of overheating and contamination increases without precise control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where temperature sensors continuously monitor the canning process temperature, transmit signals to the receiver, and the processor generates control signals based on the measured temperature. This closed-loop feedback ensures the temperature remains within the safe range for sterilization without overheating.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares control signals in advance based on predetermined temperature targets and safety margins. The processor is programmed with target temperature values and can anticipate when temperature adjustments are needed, providing cushioning against potential overheating by acting before the harmful condition occurs.
3Productivity
If manual temperature monitoring is used, then the equipment cost is low, but the processing efficiency and consistency are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature monitoring and control system operates continuously throughout the canning process, constantly measuring temperature and adjusting heating as needed. This continuous control ensures consistent sterilization efficiency and eliminates the interruptions and inconsistencies associated with manual monitoring, maintaining high productivity throughout the entire process.
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 that foodstuffs are heated to the correct temperatures consistently, reducing the risk of contamination and improving the efficiency and safety of the canning process.
Implementation Method 1
an electronic temperature sensor disposed in the probe chamber
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a system for canning foodstuffs that provides precise monitoring of the temperature of the contents of each canning jar during a canning process. The system may include user interface displays that provide prompts to the user regarding the canning process. Configurations of the system can include temperature receivers that include displays which prompt the user to perform certain steps in the canning process. Other configurations can include interfaces that control heat sources such that the heat source can be controlled by the system without user interaction during the canning process. Still other configurations interact with the canner to regulate pressure inside the canner to further decrease the level of interaction with a user.