Multi-Core Temperature Sensor with Star-Connected Resistors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-point core temperature sensors require a complex and expensive four-pin plug and socket connection for measuring three temperature-dependent resistors, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A system with a multi-core temperature sensor using a three-pin socket or plug, where three temperature-dependent resistors are arranged in a star connection, allowing connection via three pins, and electronic switches enable resistance measurements at different times to determine individual resistor values, reducing the need for complex wiring and expensive connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a four-pin plug and socket connection is used to measure three temperature-dependent resistors, then the measurement capability is achieved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines three separate measurement functions into a single three-pin connection system. By arranging three temperature-dependent resistors in a star connection configuration and using electronic switches to selectively connect them to the measurement electronics, the system achieves three-point temperature measurement capability through only three pins, merging what would traditionally require four separate connection paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic switching elements (electronic switches) that allow the measurement system to reconfigure its measurement path based on which resistor needs to be measured. The switches enable the system to dynamically connect different resistor combinations to the measurement electronics, allowing three resistors to be measured through a three-pin interface by changing the connection topology during operation.
2Measurement precision
If a four-pin plug and socket connection is used to measure three temperature-dependent resistors, then the measurement capability is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of four-pin connections into a three-pin implementation by using a star connection configuration for the resistors and electronic switching. This reduction in pin count directly lowers manufacturing costs for connectors, cables, and assembly processes while maintaining the capability to measure all three temperature-dependent resistors.
Solution Approach 2:
The three-pin connection system is designed to be universal, capable of measuring any combination of the three resistors through electronic switching. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for specialized four-pin connectors and associated manufacturing infrastructure, reducing overall system cost while maintaining full measurement capability.
3Device complexity
If three resistors are connected in a star configuration with three-pin connection, then the connection complexity is reduced, but the measurement process requires electronic switching and sequential measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic electronic switching to manage the measurement process. The switches are controlled by measurement electronics to sequentially connect different resistor combinations to the measurement input, enabling automated measurement of all three resistors through a simplified three-pin connection without manual reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system performs self-service by automatically switching between different measurement configurations. The control electronics autonomously manage the switching sequence and data acquisition, eliminating the need for external intervention or complex manual measurement procedures while maintaining connection simplicity.
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 solution simplifies the connection and measurement process, reduces costs, and allows for accurate determination of temperature values, particularly the lowest temperature, using either NTC or PTC thermistors, while minimizing installation space and tolerance requirements.
Implementation Method 1
A thermistor (also referred to as an NTC resistor) is usually used for this. Such a thermistor has high resistance at low temperature and low resistance at high temperature. A so-called PTC thermistor (also referred to as a PTC resistor) is also known, which has a lower resistance at low temperatures than at high temperatures.
Implementation Method 2
The resistance used here is temperature-dependent. The temperature of the measuring sensor or the measuring point at the location of the measuring sensor can be determined from the resistance value of the NTC thermistor or the PTC thermistor.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
The circuit has measuring unit (101) that is connected to the resistors (103-105) using electronic switch (110) and ports which are connected to ground terminal (106). The resistors are arranged in the form of a delta circuit or in the form of a star circuit. The resistance values of the resistors are measured by the measuring unit. Independent claims are included for the following: (1) temperature sensor; (2) domestic appliance; and (3) method for measuring resistance.