Smart Wireless Thermo-Sensing Device with Integrated SoC
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless temperature monitoring systems are limited by the need for multiple chips, susceptibility to damage at high temperatures, restricted range, and the use of proprietary connectors, which hinders their application in various consumer and industrial processes.
Innovation Solution
A smart wireless thermo-sensing device utilizing a Wireless System-on-Chip (SoC) combined with a thermo-sensing amplifier IC, eliminating the need for an external microcontroller and allowing for direct wireless communication, supporting a wide range of probes, and enabling remote access through standard connectors and protocols like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and infrared.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If proprietary radio transceivers (433 MHz, 900 MHz) or BLUETOOTH Low Energy are used for wireless temperature monitoring, then wireless communication is achieved, but the device is limited to radio range of the smartphone and requires a gateway or hub
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates multiple wireless communication protocols (Wi-Fi, BLUETOOTH, infrared) within a single unit, enabling it to communicate through multiple channels and eliminating the need for proprietary gateways or hubs. This multi-functional approach allows the device to operate independently within standard radio ranges of common smartphones and tablets.
2Ease of operation
If non-thermocouple-based temperature sensors (thermistor) are used, then wireless temperature monitoring is achieved, but the sensors are susceptible to damage at high temperatures and provide slow readings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the thermocouple sensor (which handles high temperatures and provides fast readings) with a microcontroller and wireless communication module in an integrated housing. This merging allows the robust thermocouple to be protected from environmental damage while maintaining its high-temperature capability and fast response characteristics, and adds wireless functionality without compromising sensor reliability.
3Ease of operation
If a two microchip solution is used for wireless temperature sensing, then wireless communication is achieved, but the circuitry becomes complex and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the microcontroller unit (MCU) and wireless communication module into a single combined chip or closely coupled integrated circuit. This consolidation reduces the component count from two separate chips to one unified component, simplifying the circuit board layout, reducing assembly complexity, and lowering overall device cost while maintaining full wireless functionality.
4Adaptability or versatility
If proprietary connectors are used for thermo-sensing probes, then specific probe types can be supported, but adaptability to various consumer and industrial processes is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs standard, widely-adopted connector types (such as common thermocouple connectors) rather than proprietary designs. This universal connector approach enables the device to work with multiple probe types from different manufacturers and across various applications, increasing adaptability without requiring proprietary adapter solutions.
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 solution provides accurate, fast, and reliable temperature monitoring across a wide temperature range, enabling remote access and reducing costs, while promoting user engagement through an achievement and rewards system, thus enhancing the usability and data collection for various applications.
Implementation Method 1
The present invention allows the user to be notified remotely via wireless on their smartphone, tablet, or personal computer that the desired temperature(s) has been reached
Implementation Method 2
Wirelessly monitoring temperature has been achieved in the past by employing proprietary (e.g. 433 MHz, 900 MHz) or BLUETOOTH Low Energy radio transceivers
Data Source
AI summary
A smart Wi-Fi thermo-sensing device, which allows remote monitoring of temperature with an application running on a smartphone, tablet, or personal computer. The device allows a user to monitor a temperature such as in cooking food from where ever a smart phone has connectivity. In addition the smart device will allow for upload and download of data to and from a backend server allowing users to access prior thermo-sensing data. The invention also allows users to participate in contests which may include prizes and or coupons based on different activity conducted with the smart device.