PCB Over-Temperature Detection via Opposite-Surface Sensing Circuit

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Solution Overview

Problem

In electronic devices, loose connections between conducting wires and lock attachment elements can lead to high temperatures at connecting points, causing damage or fire hazards due to inadequate temperature detection efficiency.

Innovation Solution

An over temperature detecting method using a sensing circuit on one surface of a printed circuit board to sense temperature at detecting points and output voltage signals, which are then processed by a control circuit on the opposite surface to determine if over temperature conditions exist, utilizing metal conducting layers for efficient heat transfer and improved detection accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the sensing circuit is arranged on the same surface as the detecting points, then the detection structure is simpler, but the heat transfer efficiency is insufficient leading to delayed temperature detection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature detection accuracyVSAvoidtemperature detection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dimensionality change by moving the sensing circuit from the same surface (2D plane) to the opposite surface of the printed circuit board, utilizing the third dimension (depth/height) to improve heat transfer efficiency. This spatial reconfiguration allows the sensing circuit to be positioned closer to the heat source through the board's thickness, enabling faster and more accurate temperature detection without increasing surface complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If the sensing circuit is arranged on the opposite surface to the detecting points, then the heat transfer efficiency is improved, but the circuit layout flexibility is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature detection accuracyVSAvoidcircuit layout flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the circuit board into two functional surfaces: the first surface for detecting points (connection terminals) and the second surface for the sensing circuit. This segmentation allows each surface to be optimized independently - the first surface for electrical connections and the second surface for temperature sensing - thereby resolving the conflict between heat transfer efficiency and circuit layout flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If traditional temperature detection methods are used, then the device structure is simpler, but the detection efficiency is insufficient leading to potential damage or fire hazards

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesafety against damage and fire hazardsVSAvoidtemperature detection efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by implementing proactive temperature monitoring that detects abnormal temperatures before they cause damage or fire hazards. The sensing circuit continuously monitors temperature at detecting points and provides early warning, allowing preventive measures to be taken before critical failure occurs, thereby enhancing safety without compromising detection efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 method enhances temperature detection efficiency and accuracy, allowing for timely detection of abnormal high temperatures and prevention of damage or hazards by arranging the sensing circuit opposite to the detecting points, facilitating better heat transfer and flexible circuit layout.

Implementation Method 1

the sensing circuit is arranged at a second surface opposite to the first surface of the printed circuit board... facilitating better heat transfer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS10656027B2Electronic device and over-temperature detecting method
Publication Date: 2020.05.19 DELTA ELECTRONICS INC(CN)
  • US10656027B2 patent drawing
  • US10656027B2 patent drawing
  • US10656027B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device includes a printed circuit board (PCB), a control circuit, and a sensing circuit. The control circuit is configured to determine whether over temperature occurs at one or more detecting points arranged at a first surface of the printed circuit board according to at least one voltage signal. The sensing circuit is arranged at a second surface opposite to the first surface of the printed circuit board and configured to sense the temperature of the one or more detecting points and correspondingly output the voltage signal to the control circuit.