Pseudo-Stable Temperature Prediction Using Lookup Tables
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temperature measurement methods are complex and time-consuming, especially in automated production facilities, where rapid temperature measurement of workpieces is required, and they often rely on precise knowledge of the temperature response curve and initial contact time.
Innovation Solution
A method using a temperature sensor with low thermal mass to quickly find a pseudo-stable temperature, which is then used to predict the object's temperature through a simple look-up table correction, eliminating the need for complex extrapolation techniques and contact switch measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a temperature sensor is kept in contact with an object for enough time for thermal equilibrium to be reached, then measurement accuracy is improved, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing correction values in a lookup table during a calibration phase. The correction values are determined in advance based on the relationship between sensor temperature and object temperature, allowing rapid temperature determination without requiring actual thermal equilibrium during measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the physical thermal equilibrium process with a computational lookup approach. Instead of waiting for thermal conduction to establish equilibrium, the system uses a pre-computed lookup table that maps sensor temperature readings to corrected object temperatures, substituting a computational system for a physical thermal process
2Loss of time
If numerical extrapolation techniques are used to predict equilibrium temperature, then measurement time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simple, inexpensive lookup table structure instead of complex numerical algorithms. The lookup table contains pre-computed correction values that can be easily stored and queried, replacing sophisticated mathematical models with a simple data structure that requires minimal processing power
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from continuous numerical extrapolation to discrete lookup table querying. By pre-computing correction values for various temperature conditions and storing them in a table, the system transforms a complex continuous mathematical problem into a simple discrete lookup operation
3Measurement precision
If precise knowledge of temperature response curve and initial contact time is required, then temperature prediction accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-determining the relationship between sensor temperature and object temperature during a calibration phase. The calibration process establishes correction values that account for thermal response characteristics without requiring precise knowledge of contact time during actual measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The lookup table approach makes the system self-sufficient by embedding all necessary calibration information directly in the table. The system does not require external input about contact time or response curve parameters during operation, as these are automatically accounted for in the pre-computed correction values
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 rapid and accurate temperature prediction within seconds, increasing throughput in automated processes without requiring precise knowledge of the temperature response curve or initial contact time, and simplifying data processing.
Implementation Method 1
when a temperature sensor is brought into contact with an object, such as a workpiece, it will take a certain amount of time for the temperature sensor to reach the temperature of the object
Implementation Method 2
keep the temperature sensor in contact with the object for enough time for thermal equilibrium to be reached
Data Source
AI summary
A method of using a temperature sensor (8) to determine the temperature of an object (14) is described. The method comprises bringing the temperature sensor (8) into thermal contact with the object (14) to be measured. The temperature sensor (8) is then used to acquire a plurality of temperature readings, said plurality of temperature readings being acquired prior to the temperature sensor (8) reaching thermal equilibrium with the object (14). At least some of said plurality of temperature readings are then used to determine a pseudo-stable temperature at which the rate of change of temperature readings with time is less than a predetermined rate. The actual temperature of the object may then be predicted from the pseudo-stable temperature.