Passive RFID Temperature Indicator for Irreversible Threshold Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for effective temperature monitoring and tracking of sensitive objects during manufacturing, storage, and transit, as existing solutions fail to reliably indicate exposure to specific temperature thresholds without requiring internal power sources or providing irreversible indicators.
Innovation Solution
A temperature indicator device with a housing containing a temperature detection assembly, switch circuitry, and a radio-frequency identification (RFID) module, which changes its output state when subjected to a temperature threshold, allowing for passive monitoring and irreversible indication of temperature exposure without an internal power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If existing temperature monitoring solutions are used, then temperature tracking is possible, but they require internal power sources which complicates the device and limits application scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic power-consuming temperature monitoring systems with a passive mechanical/physical system. The temperature indicator uses a temperature-sensitive element that undergoes physical changes (such as color change or phase transition) at specific temperature thresholds, eliminating the need for batteries or power sources while maintaining reliable temperature indication capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable, single-use temperature indicators that are simple in construction and do not require internal power sources. These indicators are designed to be attached to products or packaging, provide their temperature indication function, and then can be discarded, reducing complexity and cost while ensuring reliable temperature monitoring for each use case.
2Reliability
If existing temperature monitoring solutions are used, then temperature data can be obtained, but they do not provide irreversible indicators which limits quality control capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes color-changing materials or indicators that permanently alter their appearance when exposed to specific temperature thresholds. This color change provides an irreversible visual record of temperature exposure, enabling quality control personnel to immediately determine whether temperature limits were exceeded without requiring power sources or complex electronics.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex temperature monitoring systems are used, then detailed temperature data is available, but the device complexity increases making it difficult to deploy in various applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential temperature indication function from complex electronic monitoring systems, creating a standalone, simple temperature indicator that can be easily attached to various products and packaging. This simplified design removes unnecessary components such as power sources, displays, and electronics, making the device highly adaptable to different applications while maintaining low complexity.
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
Enables reliable, power-free temperature monitoring and irreversible indication of exposure to specific temperature thresholds, suitable for various applications including sterilization, vaccine, and food monitoring, ensuring the efficacy of temperature-sensitive processes.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature detection assembly, switch circuitry, and a radio-frequency identification (RFID) module
Implementation Method 2
a radio-frequency identification (RFID) module coupled to the switch circuitry
Implementation Method 3
a support member containing a non-conductive malleable substance, a communication module, and switch circuitry including a switch element having at least a portion thereof disposed within the malleable substance
Data Source
AI summary
A temperature indicator includes a housing having a temperature detection assembly, switch circuitry, and a radio-frequency identification (RFID) module coupled to the switch circuitry. Responsive to the temperature detection assembly being subjected to a temperature exceeding a threshold, the switch circuitry causes a change in a value output by the RFID module when activated.