Temperature adjustment device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temperature adjustment devices quickly adjust loads to a target temperature, making it difficult to gradually change the temperature, particularly in applications like beer manufacturing where a stepwise temperature adjustment is required.
Innovation Solution
A temperature adjustment device with a circulating liquid circuit, a heating unit, a cooling unit, and a controller that calculates a target temperature gradient to control the output of these units, allowing for gradual temperature changes based on measured and set temperatures, ensuring the load reaches the target temperature within a specified time period.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the temperature controller controls the temperature of the circulating liquid to adjust the load temperature to the target temperature as quickly as possible, then the temperature adjustment speed is improved, but the ability to gradually change the load temperature deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the temperature adjustment process adaptive and variable. The controller dynamically adjusts the temperature gradient based on real-time feedback from the load temperature sensor, allowing the system to transition between rapid adjustment and gradual change modes. This enables the system to accommodate different process requirements without manual intervention or complex operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring the load temperature through a temperature sensor and using this information to adjust the circulating liquid temperature. The controller compares the actual load temperature with the target temperature and automatically adjusts the heating/cooling output to achieve the desired temperature profile, eliminating the need for manual stepwise adjustments.
2Productivity
If rapid temperature adjustment is implemented, then productivity is improved, but the complexity of temperature control operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the temperature adjustment device to automatically perform temperature control operations without requiring user intervention. The controller autonomously calculates the required temperature gradient, adjusts the circulating liquid temperature, and maintains the load at the target temperature. This eliminates the need for operators to perform complex stepwise temperature adjustments manually.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control operations with an automated control system. Instead of requiring operators to physically adjust temperature settings and monitor changes, the electronic controller automatically manages the temperature adjustment process based on sensor feedback, simplifying the operational interface and reducing human involvement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the system allows mid-adjustment temperature changes, then adaptability is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the control system to accept and respond to new target temperature settings during the adjustment process. The controller continuously calculates the temperature gradient based on the current load temperature and the target temperature, allowing for dynamic reconfiguration of the temperature profile without requiring system redesign or complex operational procedures.
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 gradual temperature adjustment of loads to a target temperature, simplifying the temperature control process and achieving precise temperature changes over time, as demonstrated in beer manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
a heating unit located in the circulating liquid circuit and configured to heat the circulating liquid in the circulating liquid circuit
Implementation Method 2
a cooling unit located in the circulating liquid circuit and configured to cool the circulating liquid in the circulating liquid circuit
Implementation Method 3
a circulating liquid circuit configured to cyclically deliver, to the load, circulating liquid returned from the load after heat exchange with the load
Data Source
AI summary
A temperature adjustment device is provided to gradually change the temperature of a load to a target temperature while adjusting the temperature of the load to the target temperature in the middle of temperature adjustment. A time-dependent set temperature of the load is calculated from a target temperature gradient at each elapsed time of a plurality of timings within a target reach time period, and the time-dependent set temperature is compared with a time-dependent measured temperature inputted from a measurement input unit. A control output unit controls a heating unit and a cooling unit based on a result of comparison between the time-dependent set temperature and the time-dependent measured temperature.