Range appliance and sensor assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooking appliances lack an effective, battery-free temperature detection system that prevents interference and damage from utensils and food items, making it difficult to monitor and control heating element temperatures accurately.
Innovation Solution
A range appliance equipped with a surface acoustic wave (SAW) temperature sensor that wirelessly communicates with a controller, using an acoustic wave reader to receive temperature signals and automatically adjust heat output, mounted above the cooking surface to avoid interference and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an electronic temperature probe with battery is used, then temperature detection capability is provided, but device complexity and power source requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic/battery-powered temperature probes with a passive acoustic wave-based temperature sensing system. Acoustic waves are generated in response to heating elements and detected by sensors, eliminating the need for electronic power sources while maintaining temperature detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The temperature sensing system is self-powered by the acoustic energy generated from the heating elements themselves. The heating elements create acoustic waves that are directly detected by the sensors, requiring no external power source or battery for the sensing operation.
2Measurement precision
If a receiver is permanently mounted below the cooking surface, then temperature monitoring is enabled, but interference from utensils and damage from spilled food occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the sensing system from a vertical arrangement (receiver below cooking surface) to a horizontal arrangement (sensors positioned at the same level as heating elements). This dimensional change allows detection of acoustic waves without being in the direct path of utensils or exposed to spilled food.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses acoustic waves as an intermediary to transmit temperature information. Instead of direct contact between sensors and heating elements or utensils, the acoustic waves carry temperature data through the air medium, eliminating physical interference and damage risks.
3Measurement precision
If traditional thermometer monitoring is used, then temperature detection is provided, but manual monitoring and adjustment are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated feedback system where acoustic wave sensors continuously monitor temperature changes and transmit data to a controller. The controller automatically adjusts heating element operation based on detected temperature, eliminating manual monitoring while maintaining precise temperature control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual thermometer reading and adjustment with an automated acoustic wave-based sensing and control system. The system automatically detects temperature through acoustic signals and triggers appropriate heating adjustments without user intervention.
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 accurate temperature monitoring and control of heating elements without batteries, preventing interference and damage, ensuring proper cooking and utensil protection.
Implementation Method 1
a surface acoustic wave (SAW) temperature sensor that wirelessly communicates with a controller
Data Source
AI summary
A range appliance and sensor assembly are provided herein. The range appliance may include a top panel, a backsplash, an acoustic wave reader, and a surface acoustic wave (SAW) temperature sensor. The top panel may support a cooking utensil. The top panel may include a top surface and a bottom surface. The backsplash may extend above the top surface along a vertical direction. The acoustic wave reader may be mounted to the backsplash. The SAW temperature sensor may be disposed above the top surface along the vertical direction. The SAW sensor may be in operable communication with the acoustic wave reader.