Temperature Sensor Assembly with Diode Count Correction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Temperature measuring apparatuses face accuracy issues when the number of temperature-sensitive diodes differs from the pre-stored information in the microcomputer, leading to decreased accuracy in determining the temperature of target objects.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a determining means to identify the number of sensing devices in the sensor assembly and a correcting means to adjust the temperature information, using a constant-current power source to analyze the output signal and modulate it into a pulse signal for accurate temperature determination.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Temperature

If the number of temperature-sensitive diodes is increased to improve measurement range, then the output signal level increases, but the accuracy of temperature determination decreases when the number does not match pre-stored information

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement rangeVSAvoidaccuracy of temperature determination
Core Design Contradiction:
TemperatureVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the microcomputer's processing capability adaptive rather than fixed. The system dynamically adjusts its temperature determination algorithm based on the actual number of connected temperature-sensitive diodes, allowing the measurement system to adapt to different configurations while maintaining accuracy across the extended measurement range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of the determination algorithm based on the detected number of sensing devices. By modifying the calculation parameters according to the actual configuration, the system resolves the contradiction between extended measurement range (achieved through multiple diodes) and measurement precision (requiring accurate calibration for specific configurations).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If the microcomputer is designed to match a specific number of temperature-sensitive diodes, then temperature determination accuracy is maintained, but the adaptability to different configurations is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of temperature determinationVSAvoidadaptability to different numbers of sensing devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements universality by designing the microcomputer to handle multiple configurations of temperature-sensitive diodes through a single adaptive algorithm. The system can universally process different numbers of sensing devices (from 1 to 10 or more) by detecting the actual count and adjusting its determination method accordingly, eliminating the need for multiple specialized designs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by having the system detect and count the number of connected temperature-sensitive diodes before performing temperature determination. This preliminary detection allows the microcomputer to pre-adjust its algorithm parameters to match the actual configuration, ensuring accuracy is maintained regardless of the specific number of devices connected.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Device complexity

If the system does not pre-store information about the number of temperature-sensitive diodes, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement accuracy decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation storage requirementsVSAvoidaccuracy of temperature determination
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by enabling the microcomputer to automatically detect the number of connected temperature-sensitive diodes and autonomously adjust its determination algorithm. Instead of requiring pre-stored configuration information or external setup, the system self-configures based on the actual hardware present, maintaining accuracy without increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by having the system continuously monitor the output signals from the temperature-sensitive diodes and use this feedback to determine the actual number of connected devices. The microcomputer then uses this feedback information to adjust its determination algorithm in real-time, ensuring accuracy without requiring pre-stored configuration data.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Ensures accurate temperature determination by compensating for errors caused by varying numbers of sensing devices, enhancing the stability and reliability of the temperature measurement process.

Implementation Method 1

a set of temperature-sensitive diodes connected together which outputs a signal correlating with temperatures of a target object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTemperature-sensitive diode effect: Diode

Implementation Method 2

a constant-current power source which applies a constant current to the sensor assembly. The determining means analyzes the output signal from the sensor assembly in response to the constant current

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOhm's Law: Ohm's Law

Data Source

PatentUS9217677B2Temperature measuring apparatus with sensor assembly of sensing devices connected together
Publication Date: 2015.12.22 DENSO CORP
  • US9217677B2 patent drawing
  • US9217677B2 patent drawing
  • US9217677B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A temperature measuring apparatus is provided which includes a sensor assembly made up of sensing devices which are connected together to produce an output signal correlated with the temperature of a target object. The temperature measuring apparatus determines the number of the sensing devices of the sensor assembly and corrects the output signal so as to compensate for an error in determining the temperature of the target object which depends upon the number of the sensing devices.