Modular Temperature Sensor Chain for Refrigerated Cabinet Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current temperature measurement systems in refrigerated cabinets are inadequate for accurately measuring temperature distribution within the goods compartment, especially in cabinets composed of varying segment lengths, due to the distance of measurement points from the goods and limited number of sensors, leading to imprecise temperature determination.
Innovation Solution
A flexible temperature measurement system with multiple temperature sensors arranged in a longitudinal configuration, allowing for even distribution and precise measurement, with the ability to form a chain of variable length, enabling accurate temperature control across the refrigeration unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two temperature sensors are used to measure supply air and return air temperature, then the temperature measurement system is simple, but the temperature measurement precision in the goods compartment is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature measurement system is segmented into multiple independent temperature sensors distributed throughout the goods compartment. Instead of using a single measurement point, the compartment is divided into multiple measurement zones, each with its own sensor. This segmentation allows for localized temperature monitoring and improves overall measurement precision without requiring a completely complex centralized system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional measurement approach (supply air and return air temperatures only) to a multi-dimensional measurement network. Temperature sensors are placed at various positions including the goods compartment, air ducts, and evaporator areas, creating a spatial distribution of measurement points. This dimensional expansion enables comprehensive temperature mapping of the refrigeration system.
2Measurement precision
If temperature sensors are placed in air ducts, then the measurement system is simple to install, but the distance from goods is large leading to imprecise temperature determination
Solution Approach 1:
Temperature sensors are positioned in locations that are locally optimal for measuring goods temperature. Sensors are placed in direct proximity to goods on shelves and in the goods compartment, rather than relying solely on remote air duct measurements. This local positioning ensures that the temperature measured reflects the actual goods temperature, improving determination accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces additional temperature sensors as intermediary measurement points between the air duct environment and the goods. These intermediate sensors capture the temperature gradient and heat transfer characteristics, providing data that bridges the gap between air temperature measurements and actual goods temperature, thereby improving accuracy without requiring direct contact with goods.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed number of temperature sensors are used, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot be adapted to different cabinet lengths
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature measurement system is designed with dynamic scalability. The number and positions of temperature sensors can be adjusted based on the specific cabinet length and configuration. The system allows for adding or removing sensors along the cabinet length, making it adaptable to different segment lengths while maintaining a relatively simple base structure that can be configured as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal temperature measurement system that can function across different cabinet sizes and configurations. By using standardized sensor positions and a modular approach, the same basic system design can be applied to various cabinet lengths. The system serves multiple functions: monitoring supply air, return air, evaporator, and goods compartment temperatures, making it versatile for different refrigeration unit types.
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
The system ensures precise temperature measurement and control within the refrigerated cabinet, adhering to legal temperature standards by providing a reliable and uniform distribution of temperature sensors, which can be adapted to different cabinet lengths, improving the accuracy of temperature determination.
Implementation Method 1
The temperature signal of the respective temperature sensor is a measurement signal which represents the temperature of the surroundings of the respective temperature sensor
Data Source
Figure 1~2b
Figure 3a~3e
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
The temperature measurement module (23) has two electrical attachment units and a connecting unit for connecting the two electrical attachment units with each other. A temperature sensor is provided outside the two electrical attachment units for producing a temperature signal. The temperature sensor is connected to the electrical connection unit. The temperature sensor stays in temperature exchange with the environment. An independent claim is included for a temperature measurement system with an evaluation module.