Automatically measuring the temperature of food
US6866417B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 5, 2002 |
| Grant date | Mar 15, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 5, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01K13/06
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus for measuring the temperature of workpieces transported on a conveyor is disclosed. In one broad aspect of the invention, the apparatus includes a translatable assembly which has a pick-up tool for picking up workpieces and a temperature-sensing device which is in proximity to the pick-up tool for measuring the temperature of the workpiece. Other embodiments are disclosed, including eliminating the pick-up tool, provided the temperature sensing device travels with the workpiece. Scanners can be utilized to designate the largest of the workpieces to be measured or for detecting overlapping workpieces. Feedback temperature control is achieved by varying a parameter, such as conveyor speed or a heat engine temperature. Also, a modeling module can be incorporated to assist with temperature control of the workpieces.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.