CA2733876C - Grain bin temperature probe - Google Patents
Grain bin temperature probe Download PDFInfo
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- CA2733876C CA2733876C CA2733876A CA2733876A CA2733876C CA 2733876 C CA2733876 C CA 2733876C CA 2733876 A CA2733876 A CA 2733876A CA 2733876 A CA2733876 A CA 2733876A CA 2733876 C CA2733876 C CA 2733876C
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- sensors
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- 239000000523 sample Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 54
- 230000035515 penetration Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 claims description 27
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 26
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 claims description 16
- 125000006850 spacer group Chemical group 0.000 description 12
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 description 9
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000011236 particulate material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009194 climbing Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009977 dual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011810 insulating material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000007774 longterm Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000002739 metals Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000149 penetrating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01K—MEASURING TEMPERATURE; MEASURING QUANTITY OF HEAT; THERMALLY-SENSITIVE ELEMENTS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G01K13/00—Thermometers specially adapted for specific purposes
- G01K13/10—Thermometers specially adapted for specific purposes for measuring temperature within piled or stacked materials
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01K—MEASURING TEMPERATURE; MEASURING QUANTITY OF HEAT; THERMALLY-SENSITIVE ELEMENTS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G01K1/00—Details of thermometers not specially adapted for particular types of thermometer
- G01K1/02—Means for indicating or recording specially adapted for thermometers
- G01K1/026—Means for indicating or recording specially adapted for thermometers arrangements for monitoring a plurality of temperatures, e.g. by multiplexing
Abstract
A grain bin temperature sensing probe has an elongate housing formed in modular sections supporting respective temperature sensors thereon for connection between a tip for penetration into the bed of grain and a transmitter housing arranged to transmit the measured temperatures and the sensor identification associated therewith to a receiver for being displayed to a user. A main wire is connected between the transmitter and each sensor to both deliver electrical power to the sensors and transmit data from the sensors. Electrical contacts in series with the main wire permit sections of the main wire to be readily reconnected automatically when the modular sections of the housing are mechanically joined.
Description
GRAIN BIN TEMPERATURE PROBE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a temperature sensing probe arranged to be penetrated into a bed of particulate material, for example a bed of grain in a grain bin, for measuring the temperature at one or more prescribed depths within the bed of grain and for communicating the measured temperatures to a user of the probe.
BACKGROUND
When storing grain in storage bins it is common to monitor the temperature of the grain at various depths within the bin to ensure the grain is adequately ventilated and maintained at proper conditions to minimize the spoilage thereof. Temperature monitoring in grain bins is commonly accomplished by sensors suspended by cables within a grain bin at various depths such that the sensors are directly wired to a main controller typically supported at a fixed location on the bin itself. Due to the sensors being supported on cables, the cables must already be supported in place before grain is placed in the grain bin. Accordingly, the sensors cannot be readily displaced from one grain bin to another once in use with grain surrounding the sensors in the bin. One example of sensors supported by cables is disclosed in US Patent 4,102,194 by Eng.
US Patent Application Publication 2005/0080567 by Wieting et al discloses a further example of a grain bin monitoring system in which sensors supported within the bin, typically using cables or other conventional means, communicate with a transmitter supported on the bin structure for transmitting data to a remote receiver. Similar to the example above, once the bin is filled with grain, the sensors cannot be readily relocated to different bins such that a separate array of
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a temperature sensing probe arranged to be penetrated into a bed of particulate material, for example a bed of grain in a grain bin, for measuring the temperature at one or more prescribed depths within the bed of grain and for communicating the measured temperatures to a user of the probe.
BACKGROUND
When storing grain in storage bins it is common to monitor the temperature of the grain at various depths within the bin to ensure the grain is adequately ventilated and maintained at proper conditions to minimize the spoilage thereof. Temperature monitoring in grain bins is commonly accomplished by sensors suspended by cables within a grain bin at various depths such that the sensors are directly wired to a main controller typically supported at a fixed location on the bin itself. Due to the sensors being supported on cables, the cables must already be supported in place before grain is placed in the grain bin. Accordingly, the sensors cannot be readily displaced from one grain bin to another once in use with grain surrounding the sensors in the bin. One example of sensors supported by cables is disclosed in US Patent 4,102,194 by Eng.
US Patent Application Publication 2005/0080567 by Wieting et al discloses a further example of a grain bin monitoring system in which sensors supported within the bin, typically using cables or other conventional means, communicate with a transmitter supported on the bin structure for transmitting data to a remote receiver. Similar to the example above, once the bin is filled with grain, the sensors cannot be readily relocated to different bins such that a separate array of
2 sensors and transmitter must be supported on each bin to be monitored and the equipment must be already in place before filling the bin with grain.
US Patent 3,199,353 by Burnight discloses a grain temperature sensing device comprising an elongate housing arranged to be penetrated into a bed of grain.
Sensors on the housing communicate with a display directly mounted on the housing such that the user must climb to the top of the bin or into the bin itself for each reading even if the device is left in place inserted in the bed of grain. The housing of the device is described as being formed in sections threadably connected to one another, however, each of the temperature sensors require conductors to maintain connection between the sensors and the display at the top end of the housing.
Accordingly, even when the section of the housing are separated, the conductors remain connected such that the sections of the housing cannot be fully separated but are only foldable relative to one another such that the conductors are readily susceptible to damage.
Even if separate connectors are provided to disconnect the conductors, the user would still be required to perform a second awkward manipulation of disconnecting the conductors each time the sections of the housing are to be separated from one another such that the extra manipulation of the conductors results in the conductors still being readily susceptible to damage over long term use.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to. one aspect of the invention there is provided a temperature sensing probe for sensing temperature within a columnar bed of grain in an upright storage structure, the probe comprising:
an elongate housing extending in a longitudinal direction between opposing top and bottom ends;
a tip supported at the bottom end of the housing and arranged for
US Patent 3,199,353 by Burnight discloses a grain temperature sensing device comprising an elongate housing arranged to be penetrated into a bed of grain.
Sensors on the housing communicate with a display directly mounted on the housing such that the user must climb to the top of the bin or into the bin itself for each reading even if the device is left in place inserted in the bed of grain. The housing of the device is described as being formed in sections threadably connected to one another, however, each of the temperature sensors require conductors to maintain connection between the sensors and the display at the top end of the housing.
Accordingly, even when the section of the housing are separated, the conductors remain connected such that the sections of the housing cannot be fully separated but are only foldable relative to one another such that the conductors are readily susceptible to damage.
Even if separate connectors are provided to disconnect the conductors, the user would still be required to perform a second awkward manipulation of disconnecting the conductors each time the sections of the housing are to be separated from one another such that the extra manipulation of the conductors results in the conductors still being readily susceptible to damage over long term use.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to. one aspect of the invention there is provided a temperature sensing probe for sensing temperature within a columnar bed of grain in an upright storage structure, the probe comprising:
an elongate housing extending in a longitudinal direction between opposing top and bottom ends;
a tip supported at the bottom end of the housing and arranged for
3 penetration into the bed of grain;
a plurality of temperature sensors supported on the housing at spaced positions in the longitudinal direction so as to be arranged for penetration into the bed of grain together with the housing, each temperature sensor having a sensor identification and being arranged to measure a temperature;
a receiver arranged to be located remotely from the housing; and a transmitter connected to the housing and arranged to transmit the measured temperatures and the sensor identification associated therewith to the receiver for being displayed to a user.
By providing a transmitter on the housing of the probe for insertion into the bed of grain together with the sensors on the housing, the transmitter and the sensors are readily portable from one grain bin to another and can be readily penetrated into the bed of grain even after the grain bin is already full.
Furthermore, the transmitter permits multiple readings to be taken at several different intervals of time without the user being required to climb to the top of the bin when the probe is simply left in place in the grain bin. The probe according to the present invention is thus much more adaptable to different applications than the prior art configurations and is more readily used for sensing temperatures in more than one full bin and at different intervals of time within the same bin.
Each temperature sensor is preferably supported in a peripheral wall of the housing. More particularly, each temperature sensor preferably includes an exterior surface which is mounted to be substantially flush with a portion of the peripheral wall of the housing which surrounds the sensor. When the exterior surface of each temperature sensor is substantially flat and an exterior surface of the housing is substantially cylindrical, the portion of the peripheral wall about each temperature
a plurality of temperature sensors supported on the housing at spaced positions in the longitudinal direction so as to be arranged for penetration into the bed of grain together with the housing, each temperature sensor having a sensor identification and being arranged to measure a temperature;
a receiver arranged to be located remotely from the housing; and a transmitter connected to the housing and arranged to transmit the measured temperatures and the sensor identification associated therewith to the receiver for being displayed to a user.
By providing a transmitter on the housing of the probe for insertion into the bed of grain together with the sensors on the housing, the transmitter and the sensors are readily portable from one grain bin to another and can be readily penetrated into the bed of grain even after the grain bin is already full.
Furthermore, the transmitter permits multiple readings to be taken at several different intervals of time without the user being required to climb to the top of the bin when the probe is simply left in place in the grain bin. The probe according to the present invention is thus much more adaptable to different applications than the prior art configurations and is more readily used for sensing temperatures in more than one full bin and at different intervals of time within the same bin.
Each temperature sensor is preferably supported in a peripheral wall of the housing. More particularly, each temperature sensor preferably includes an exterior surface which is mounted to be substantially flush with a portion of the peripheral wall of the housing which surrounds the sensor. When the exterior surface of each temperature sensor is substantially flat and an exterior surface of the housing is substantially cylindrical, the portion of the peripheral wall about each temperature
4 sensor preferably includes a recessed portion which is gradually recessed in relation to the cylindrical exterior surface of the housing so as to be substantially flush with the flat exterior surface the temperature sensor.
The tip may include an inner portion arranged to be coupled to the bottom end of the housing, an intermediate portion having an outer diameter which is greater than the inner portion and the housing, and an outer portion which is gradually tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to an outer apex.
The transmitter is preferably supported on the top end of the housing.
When provided in combination with a plurality of probes of like configuration, each having a transmitter arranged for communication with a common receiver, preferably each transmitter includes a transmitter identification and the receiver is arranged to associate each measured temperature received with the respective sensor identification and the respective transmitter identification.
When provided in combination with an auxiliary multifunction device 16 including a display screen, the receiver may be supported in an auxiliary housing including a connector arranged for selective connection to the auxiliary multifunction device so as to be arranged to display the measured temperatures on the display screen of the auxiliary multifunction device.
Preferably a main communication wire extends longitudinally through the housing and so as to be connected between the transmitter and each of the temperature sensors and so as to be arranged to both deliver electrical power from the transmitter to the sensors and to communicate measured temperatures from the sensors to the transmitter along the main communication wire. The housing is may be connected between the temperature sensors and the transmitter so as to be arranged to function as an electrical ground in this instance.
The probe may further comprise:
i) each temperature sensor being electrically connected to the transmitter;
ii) the housing including a plurality of modular sections arranged for
The tip may include an inner portion arranged to be coupled to the bottom end of the housing, an intermediate portion having an outer diameter which is greater than the inner portion and the housing, and an outer portion which is gradually tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to an outer apex.
The transmitter is preferably supported on the top end of the housing.
When provided in combination with a plurality of probes of like configuration, each having a transmitter arranged for communication with a common receiver, preferably each transmitter includes a transmitter identification and the receiver is arranged to associate each measured temperature received with the respective sensor identification and the respective transmitter identification.
When provided in combination with an auxiliary multifunction device 16 including a display screen, the receiver may be supported in an auxiliary housing including a connector arranged for selective connection to the auxiliary multifunction device so as to be arranged to display the measured temperatures on the display screen of the auxiliary multifunction device.
Preferably a main communication wire extends longitudinally through the housing and so as to be connected between the transmitter and each of the temperature sensors and so as to be arranged to both deliver electrical power from the transmitter to the sensors and to communicate measured temperatures from the sensors to the transmitter along the main communication wire. The housing is may be connected between the temperature sensors and the transmitter so as to be arranged to function as an electrical ground in this instance.
The probe may further comprise:
i) each temperature sensor being electrically connected to the transmitter;
ii) the housing including a plurality of modular sections arranged for
5 connection in series with one another in the longitudinal direction;
ii) each adjacent pair of modular sections being mechanically connected by a first mating connector on one of the sections and a second mating connector on the other one of the sections which are arranged for mating connection;
iv) each adjacent pair of modular sections being electrically connected by a first electrical contact on one of the sections and a second electrical contact on the other one of the adjacent pair of modular sections; and v) the first and second electrical contacts of each adjacent pair of modular sections being aligned and arranged for mating contact with one another when the first and second mating connectors of the adjacent pair of modular sections are connected with one another.
Preferably the first and second electrical contacts of each adjacent pair of modular sections are connected in series with the main communication wire coaxially with the threaded connection of the adjacent pair of modular sections such that the first and second electrical contacts are arranged for abutment with one another as the first and second mating connectors are threadably connected.
Each modular section preferably includes two temperature sensors at longitudinally spaced positions thereon.
The probe may further comprise:
i) each modular section including a first connector at a bottom end and a second connector at an opposing top end arranged for mating connection with the first =
ii) each adjacent pair of modular sections being mechanically connected by a first mating connector on one of the sections and a second mating connector on the other one of the sections which are arranged for mating connection;
iv) each adjacent pair of modular sections being electrically connected by a first electrical contact on one of the sections and a second electrical contact on the other one of the adjacent pair of modular sections; and v) the first and second electrical contacts of each adjacent pair of modular sections being aligned and arranged for mating contact with one another when the first and second mating connectors of the adjacent pair of modular sections are connected with one another.
Preferably the first and second electrical contacts of each adjacent pair of modular sections are connected in series with the main communication wire coaxially with the threaded connection of the adjacent pair of modular sections such that the first and second electrical contacts are arranged for abutment with one another as the first and second mating connectors are threadably connected.
Each modular section preferably includes two temperature sensors at longitudinally spaced positions thereon.
The probe may further comprise:
i) each modular section including a first connector at a bottom end and a second connector at an opposing top end arranged for mating connection with the first =
6 connector of an adjacent modular section;
ii) the tip including a second connector arranged for mating connection with the first connector of a lowermost one of the modular sections;
iii) the transmitter being supported in a transmitter housing including a =
first connector arranged for mating connection with the second connector of an uppermost one of the modular sections; and =
iv) each first connector being arranged for connection with each second connector such that the modular sections are substantially identical to one another and readily interchangeable with one another in series between the tip and the transmitter housing.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a temperature sensing probe for sensing temperature within a columnar bed of grain in an upright storage structure, the probe comprising:
an elongate housing extending in a longitudinal direction between opposing top and bottom ends, the housing including a plurality of modular sections arranged for connection in series with one another in the longitudinal direction;
a tip supported at the bottom end of the housing and arranged for penetration into the bed of grain;
a plurality of temperature sensors supported on the housing at spaced positions in the longitudinal direction so as to be arranged for penetration into the bed of grain together with the housing, each temperature sensor having a sensor identification and being arranged to measure a temperature;
a communicating element supported on the housing and arranged to communicate the measured temperatures and the sensor identification associated therewith to a user;
ii) the tip including a second connector arranged for mating connection with the first connector of a lowermost one of the modular sections;
iii) the transmitter being supported in a transmitter housing including a =
first connector arranged for mating connection with the second connector of an uppermost one of the modular sections; and =
iv) each first connector being arranged for connection with each second connector such that the modular sections are substantially identical to one another and readily interchangeable with one another in series between the tip and the transmitter housing.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a temperature sensing probe for sensing temperature within a columnar bed of grain in an upright storage structure, the probe comprising:
an elongate housing extending in a longitudinal direction between opposing top and bottom ends, the housing including a plurality of modular sections arranged for connection in series with one another in the longitudinal direction;
a tip supported at the bottom end of the housing and arranged for penetration into the bed of grain;
a plurality of temperature sensors supported on the housing at spaced positions in the longitudinal direction so as to be arranged for penetration into the bed of grain together with the housing, each temperature sensor having a sensor identification and being arranged to measure a temperature;
a communicating element supported on the housing and arranged to communicate the measured temperatures and the sensor identification associated therewith to a user;
7 each temperature sensor being electrically connected to the communicating element;
each adjacent pair of modular sections being mechanically connected by a first mating connector on one of the sections and a second mating connector on the other one of the sections which are arranged for mating connection;
each adjacent pair of modular sections being electrically connected by a first electrical contact on one of the sections and a second electrical contact on the other one of the adjacent pair of modular sections; and the first and second electrical contacts of each adjacent pair of modular sections being aligned and arranged for mating contact with one another when the first and second mating connectors of the adjacent pair of modular sections are connected with one another.
According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a temperature sensing probe for sensing temperature within a columnar bed of grain in an upright storage structure, the probe comprising:
an elongate housing extending in a longitudinal direction between opposing top and bottom ends, the housing including a plurality of modular sections arranged for connection in series with one another in the longitudinal direction;
a tip supported at the bottom end of the housing and arranged for penetration into the bed of grain;
each modular section of the housing comprising:
at least one temperature sensor supported thereon such that the temperature sensors are supported on the housing at spaced positions in the longitudinal direction so as to be arranged for penetration into the bed of grain together with the housing, each temperature sensor having a sensor identification and
each adjacent pair of modular sections being mechanically connected by a first mating connector on one of the sections and a second mating connector on the other one of the sections which are arranged for mating connection;
each adjacent pair of modular sections being electrically connected by a first electrical contact on one of the sections and a second electrical contact on the other one of the adjacent pair of modular sections; and the first and second electrical contacts of each adjacent pair of modular sections being aligned and arranged for mating contact with one another when the first and second mating connectors of the adjacent pair of modular sections are connected with one another.
According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a temperature sensing probe for sensing temperature within a columnar bed of grain in an upright storage structure, the probe comprising:
an elongate housing extending in a longitudinal direction between opposing top and bottom ends, the housing including a plurality of modular sections arranged for connection in series with one another in the longitudinal direction;
a tip supported at the bottom end of the housing and arranged for penetration into the bed of grain;
each modular section of the housing comprising:
at least one temperature sensor supported thereon such that the temperature sensors are supported on the housing at spaced positions in the longitudinal direction so as to be arranged for penetration into the bed of grain together with the housing, each temperature sensor having a sensor identification and
8 being arranged to measure a temperature; and electrical connectors arranged for electrically connecting said at least one temperature sensor of each modular section with said at least one temperature sensor of the other modular sections such that the modular sections are readily separable from one another by disconnecting the electrical connectors;
and a communicating element supported on the housing and arranged to communicate the measured temperatures and the sensor identification associated therewith to a user.
By further forming the housing of the probe in modular sections including both mechanical connections between the sections and electrical connections between the sections which are automatically aligned and connected upon connecting the mechanical connections, the modular housing remains durable and convenient to readily assemble and disassemble as may be desired. By providing consistent configurations of connectors between the modular sections and between the transmitter housing and the tip at opposing ends of the housing, the number of intermediate modular sections can be varied and the sections themselves can be readily interchanged with one another as may be desired by a user in a manner which is unprecedented in the prior art.
One embodiment of the invention will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is an exploded view of the components of the temperature sensing probes.
Figure 2 is a longitudinal cross sectional view of the transmitter housing.
Figure 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of one of the intermediate
and a communicating element supported on the housing and arranged to communicate the measured temperatures and the sensor identification associated therewith to a user.
By further forming the housing of the probe in modular sections including both mechanical connections between the sections and electrical connections between the sections which are automatically aligned and connected upon connecting the mechanical connections, the modular housing remains durable and convenient to readily assemble and disassemble as may be desired. By providing consistent configurations of connectors between the modular sections and between the transmitter housing and the tip at opposing ends of the housing, the number of intermediate modular sections can be varied and the sections themselves can be readily interchanged with one another as may be desired by a user in a manner which is unprecedented in the prior art.
One embodiment of the invention will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is an exploded view of the components of the temperature sensing probes.
Figure 2 is a longitudinal cross sectional view of the transmitter housing.
Figure 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of one of the intermediate
9 modular sections of the housing.
Figure 4 is a partially sectional elevational view of the various sections of the probe.
In the drawings like characters of reference indicate corresponding parts in the different figures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to the accompanying figures, there is illustrated a temperature sensing probe generally indicated by reference numeral 10. The probe 10 is particularly suited for penetration down through a columnar bed of particulate material in a storage structure, for example grain stored within a conventional cylindrical storage bin.
The probe 10 includes a main housing 12 including a plurality of temperature sensors 14 thereon, a tip 15 for penetrating the housing into the bed of grain and a transmitter 16 supported thereon. Accordingly, the temperature sensors 14 can be penetrated together with the housing into the bed of grain. In some instances, one or more housings 12 of like configuration can be arranged to transmit measured temperature data to a common receiver 18 by providing the transmitter of each housing 12 with a respective transmitter identification to be associated with the respective temperature data.
The receiver 18 comprises a receiver housing 20 including a suitable electrical connector 22 for connection to an auxiliary multi-function device 24, for example a device including crop moisture data. The device 24 typically includes a display screen 26 with an internal power supply and a suitable input connector 28 for connection to the electrical connector 22 of the receiver housing. When the receiver housing is connected to the auxiliary device 24 temperature data received by the receiver from the transmitters of various housings is communicated through the connector to the auxiliary device 24 for displaying the data to the user on the display screen. Electrical power for operating the receiver housing can be received through the connector 22 from the power source of the auxiliary multifunction device 24, or the 5 receiver may include its own internal power source. The connector 22 permits the receiver housing to remain readily separable from the multifunction device 24.
In alternative arrangements, the receiver 18 comprises a dedicated device including its own display screen and internal power supply for displaying data directly to the user.
Each probe housing 12 is elongate in a longitudinal direction between
Figure 4 is a partially sectional elevational view of the various sections of the probe.
In the drawings like characters of reference indicate corresponding parts in the different figures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to the accompanying figures, there is illustrated a temperature sensing probe generally indicated by reference numeral 10. The probe 10 is particularly suited for penetration down through a columnar bed of particulate material in a storage structure, for example grain stored within a conventional cylindrical storage bin.
The probe 10 includes a main housing 12 including a plurality of temperature sensors 14 thereon, a tip 15 for penetrating the housing into the bed of grain and a transmitter 16 supported thereon. Accordingly, the temperature sensors 14 can be penetrated together with the housing into the bed of grain. In some instances, one or more housings 12 of like configuration can be arranged to transmit measured temperature data to a common receiver 18 by providing the transmitter of each housing 12 with a respective transmitter identification to be associated with the respective temperature data.
The receiver 18 comprises a receiver housing 20 including a suitable electrical connector 22 for connection to an auxiliary multi-function device 24, for example a device including crop moisture data. The device 24 typically includes a display screen 26 with an internal power supply and a suitable input connector 28 for connection to the electrical connector 22 of the receiver housing. When the receiver housing is connected to the auxiliary device 24 temperature data received by the receiver from the transmitters of various housings is communicated through the connector to the auxiliary device 24 for displaying the data to the user on the display screen. Electrical power for operating the receiver housing can be received through the connector 22 from the power source of the auxiliary multifunction device 24, or the 5 receiver may include its own internal power source. The connector 22 permits the receiver housing to remain readily separable from the multifunction device 24.
In alternative arrangements, the receiver 18 comprises a dedicated device including its own display screen and internal power supply for displaying data directly to the user.
Each probe housing 12 is elongate in a longitudinal direction between
10 opposing top and bottom ends. The housing is generally tubular comprising a cylindrical peripheral wall 30 surrounding a hollow interior extending between the top and bottom ends. The housing supports the tip 15 at the bottom end to assist penetration of the housing into the bed of grain and a transmitter 16 within a transmitter housing 36 supported at the top end thereof.
The housing 12 is formed of a plurality of separate modular sections 38 which are substantially identical to one another and which are abutted end to end in series with one another in the longitudinal direction. Each section 38 supports two of the temperature sensors 14 thereon such that one of the sensors is adjacent a bottom end of the section and the other sensor is located centrally at an intermediate location along the length of the section.
Each modular section comprises a section of the tubular peripheral wall of the housing which is internally threaded at both ends such that a coupler 40 can be mounted at one end for joining to adjacent sections. In the illustrated embodiment the coupler comprises a plug which is externally threaded at both ends such that one end can be mounted in the bottom end of the respective modular section while the other
The housing 12 is formed of a plurality of separate modular sections 38 which are substantially identical to one another and which are abutted end to end in series with one another in the longitudinal direction. Each section 38 supports two of the temperature sensors 14 thereon such that one of the sensors is adjacent a bottom end of the section and the other sensor is located centrally at an intermediate location along the length of the section.
Each modular section comprises a section of the tubular peripheral wall of the housing which is internally threaded at both ends such that a coupler 40 can be mounted at one end for joining to adjacent sections. In the illustrated embodiment the coupler comprises a plug which is externally threaded at both ends such that one end can be mounted in the bottom end of the respective modular section while the other
11 end defines a first mating connector 42 at the bottom end of respective modular section. The internally threaded top end of each modular section thus defines a second mating connector 44 which can be threadably connected to the first connector 42 at the bottom end of any of the other modular sections 38. In this instance the bottom end of each modular section can be interchangeably mated with the connector at the top end of the adjacent section therebelow regardless of the order of the sections in series with one another.
In alternative arrangements, the coupler 40 can be mounted in the top end such that the first connector at the bottom end of each section 38 comprises an internally threaded female socket while the protrusion portion of the coupler 40 at the top end would define an externally threaded male connector while still allowing interchangeable connection between the different modular sections.
The housing 12 further comprises a main communication wire 46 extending in the longitudinal direction coaxially through the housing between the opposing top and bottom ends thereof. The communication wire is similarly formed in sections with each section of the wire 46 spanning a respective modular section 38 of the housing such that the sections of the main wire 46 are electrically disconnected and reconnected together with mechanical disconnection and reconnection of different modular sections 38 with one another.
Each sensor 14 includes a flat exterior sensing surface 48 which is supported in the peripheral wall of the housing so as to be exposed directly to the bed of grain surrounding the housing in use. Each sensor 14 is further arranged such that the peripheral surface 50 about the external surface 48 comprises a ground connection while the inner surface 52 opposite the exterior surface 48 comprises a positive contact also functioning as a data communication contact of the sensor. A
In alternative arrangements, the coupler 40 can be mounted in the top end such that the first connector at the bottom end of each section 38 comprises an internally threaded female socket while the protrusion portion of the coupler 40 at the top end would define an externally threaded male connector while still allowing interchangeable connection between the different modular sections.
The housing 12 further comprises a main communication wire 46 extending in the longitudinal direction coaxially through the housing between the opposing top and bottom ends thereof. The communication wire is similarly formed in sections with each section of the wire 46 spanning a respective modular section 38 of the housing such that the sections of the main wire 46 are electrically disconnected and reconnected together with mechanical disconnection and reconnection of different modular sections 38 with one another.
Each sensor 14 includes a flat exterior sensing surface 48 which is supported in the peripheral wall of the housing so as to be exposed directly to the bed of grain surrounding the housing in use. Each sensor 14 is further arranged such that the peripheral surface 50 about the external surface 48 comprises a ground connection while the inner surface 52 opposite the exterior surface 48 comprises a positive contact also functioning as a data communication contact of the sensor. A
12 conductor spring 54 communicates in the radial direction between the central main wire 46 and the inner surface 52 of each sensor with the spring being under compression to maintain positive contact with both the sensor and the main wire 46.
In this manner, the sensors are connected to the printed circuit board of the transmitter such that the main wire 46 serves a dual function of supplying electrical power from the transmitter PCB to the sensors and acting as a conduit for transmitting data from the sensors back to the transmitter. The housing in this instance functions as the ground in communication between the peripheral surface 50 of each sensor and the corresponding ground connection on the printed circuit board of the transmitter.
The peripheral wall of the housing includes a recessed portion 56 in the cylindrical exterior surface of the housing about each sensor in which the exterior surface is gradually recessed from the cylindrical exterior surface of the housing to the flat exterior sensing surface 48 of the respective sensor. In this manner the flat exterior surface of each sensor is substantially flush mounted with the surrounding recessed portion of the peripheral wall at the exterior of the housing. Once the sensor has been mounted in place, the portion of the rim of the bore in the wall receiving the sensor therein includes deformations 58 formed therein so as to partly overlap a peripheral edge of the sensor and retain the sensor mounted within the peripheral wall.
An intermediate spacer 60 is located in the hollow interior of the tubular housing at the location of each temperature sensor 14. The spacer comprises a cylindrical plug of insulating material spanning the hollow interior and including a first axial bore extending axially therethrough to receive the main communication wire 46 as well as a second radial bore with an exterior counter bore to receive the spring 54
In this manner, the sensors are connected to the printed circuit board of the transmitter such that the main wire 46 serves a dual function of supplying electrical power from the transmitter PCB to the sensors and acting as a conduit for transmitting data from the sensors back to the transmitter. The housing in this instance functions as the ground in communication between the peripheral surface 50 of each sensor and the corresponding ground connection on the printed circuit board of the transmitter.
The peripheral wall of the housing includes a recessed portion 56 in the cylindrical exterior surface of the housing about each sensor in which the exterior surface is gradually recessed from the cylindrical exterior surface of the housing to the flat exterior sensing surface 48 of the respective sensor. In this manner the flat exterior surface of each sensor is substantially flush mounted with the surrounding recessed portion of the peripheral wall at the exterior of the housing. Once the sensor has been mounted in place, the portion of the rim of the bore in the wall receiving the sensor therein includes deformations 58 formed therein so as to partly overlap a peripheral edge of the sensor and retain the sensor mounted within the peripheral wall.
An intermediate spacer 60 is located in the hollow interior of the tubular housing at the location of each temperature sensor 14. The spacer comprises a cylindrical plug of insulating material spanning the hollow interior and including a first axial bore extending axially therethrough to receive the main communication wire 46 as well as a second radial bore with an exterior counter bore to receive the spring 54
13 and the inner portion of the respective sensor therein respectively. The spacer electrically isolates the spring 54 and main wire 46 from the surrounding housing functioning as a ground.
End spacers 62 are also provided within the hollow interior of the housing at opposing ends of each modular section 38. The coupler 40 at the bottom end of each section includes a hollow through passage locating the respective end spacer 62 therein which similarly includes an axial bore through which the main communication wire 46 extends. The end spacer 62 at the opposing top end of each section is located adjacent the internally threaded end forming the second connector 44 and also includes an axial bore threrethrough for receiving a main communication wire 46. The end spacer 62 also electrically isolates the main wire 46 from the surrounding housing. Isolating sleeves 64 also surround the main communication wire 46 between the spacers to ensure no electrical contact between the main communication wire 46 and the surrounding housing.
At the bottom end of each modular section, the main communicating wire 46 supports a first contact 66 at the end thereof which protudes axially beyond the end of the end spacer 62 so as to be suitably arranged for abutted contact with an end portion of the main wire 46 protruding from the end spacer 62 at the top end of an adjacent modular section 38 coupled thereto when the first and second connectors 42 and 44 are mechanically and threadably coupled. The second contact 68 defined by the end portion of the wire 46 protruding beyond the end spacer within the second connector 44 at the top end abuts the first contact 66 of an adjacent modular section such that the sections of the main communicating wire and the contacts between adjacent sections are all connected in series when the modular sections of the housing are connected in series such that the abutted contacts permit the sensors to =
End spacers 62 are also provided within the hollow interior of the housing at opposing ends of each modular section 38. The coupler 40 at the bottom end of each section includes a hollow through passage locating the respective end spacer 62 therein which similarly includes an axial bore through which the main communication wire 46 extends. The end spacer 62 at the opposing top end of each section is located adjacent the internally threaded end forming the second connector 44 and also includes an axial bore threrethrough for receiving a main communication wire 46. The end spacer 62 also electrically isolates the main wire 46 from the surrounding housing. Isolating sleeves 64 also surround the main communication wire 46 between the spacers to ensure no electrical contact between the main communication wire 46 and the surrounding housing.
At the bottom end of each modular section, the main communicating wire 46 supports a first contact 66 at the end thereof which protudes axially beyond the end of the end spacer 62 so as to be suitably arranged for abutted contact with an end portion of the main wire 46 protruding from the end spacer 62 at the top end of an adjacent modular section 38 coupled thereto when the first and second connectors 42 and 44 are mechanically and threadably coupled. The second contact 68 defined by the end portion of the wire 46 protruding beyond the end spacer within the second connector 44 at the top end abuts the first contact 66 of an adjacent modular section such that the sections of the main communicating wire and the contacts between adjacent sections are all connected in series when the modular sections of the housing are connected in series such that the abutted contacts permit the sensors to =
14 be electrically connected to each other . and the transmitter in the assembled configuration.
In the illustrated embodiment, the first contact 66 supported coaxially within the first connector 42 comprises a sprung pin 70 which is biased outward in the .=
longitudinal direction relative to the respective portion of the main communicating wire 46 such that the spring acting on the pin 70 ensures adequate positive contact between the first and second electrical contacts at the coupling of each adjacent pair of modular sections so that the positive contact ensures transmission of electrical power from the transmitter to the sensors and data from the sensors to the transmitter.
The couplers 40 and the peripheral wall of the sections of the housing are formed of suitable metals so that the resulting first and second connectors 42 and 44 are conductive to allow the sections of the housing to be uniformly connected as a ground.
As described above, the transmitter 16 is supported on a respective circuit board 72 supported within the transmitter housing 36. The housing in this instance is electrically isolated from the main housing 12 of the probe. The transmitter housing is similarly cylindrical in shape so as to be elongate in the longitudinal direction. A first connector 42 is provided at the bottom end which is substantially identical to the first connectors 42 of the modular sections so as to permit coupling in series with the modular sections of the main housing 12.
The ground of the circuit board 72 of the transmitter can thus be connected internally to the inner end of the coupler 40 forming the first connector 42 to connect the ground of the circuit board to the main housing 12.
Another isolating spacer 74 is mounted within the hollow through passage in the coupler 40 at the inner end of the transmitter housing with an axial bore therethrough to receive another section of the main communication wire 46 therethrough. The section of the main wire 46 in the transmitter housing is connected between a similarly arranged coaxial sprung pin 70 at the outer end forming a first 5 contact for abutment with the corresponding second contact of the adjacent modular section. The inner end of the wire 46 of the transmitter housing is arranged for suitable connection to the appropriate contact on the printed circuit board on the transmitter to communicate power and data between the transmitter and the sensors.
An opposing outer end of the transmitter housing includes a readily 10 removable threaded cap 76 which provides access to a replaceable battery 78 providing electrical power to the transmitter and which can be readily disconnected for replacement as required. The transmitter functions to receive temperatures measured by the respective sensors together with Identifications of the respective sensors associated therewith and to transmit the measured temperatures to the
In the illustrated embodiment, the first contact 66 supported coaxially within the first connector 42 comprises a sprung pin 70 which is biased outward in the .=
longitudinal direction relative to the respective portion of the main communicating wire 46 such that the spring acting on the pin 70 ensures adequate positive contact between the first and second electrical contacts at the coupling of each adjacent pair of modular sections so that the positive contact ensures transmission of electrical power from the transmitter to the sensors and data from the sensors to the transmitter.
The couplers 40 and the peripheral wall of the sections of the housing are formed of suitable metals so that the resulting first and second connectors 42 and 44 are conductive to allow the sections of the housing to be uniformly connected as a ground.
As described above, the transmitter 16 is supported on a respective circuit board 72 supported within the transmitter housing 36. The housing in this instance is electrically isolated from the main housing 12 of the probe. The transmitter housing is similarly cylindrical in shape so as to be elongate in the longitudinal direction. A first connector 42 is provided at the bottom end which is substantially identical to the first connectors 42 of the modular sections so as to permit coupling in series with the modular sections of the main housing 12.
The ground of the circuit board 72 of the transmitter can thus be connected internally to the inner end of the coupler 40 forming the first connector 42 to connect the ground of the circuit board to the main housing 12.
Another isolating spacer 74 is mounted within the hollow through passage in the coupler 40 at the inner end of the transmitter housing with an axial bore therethrough to receive another section of the main communication wire 46 therethrough. The section of the main wire 46 in the transmitter housing is connected between a similarly arranged coaxial sprung pin 70 at the outer end forming a first 5 contact for abutment with the corresponding second contact of the adjacent modular section. The inner end of the wire 46 of the transmitter housing is arranged for suitable connection to the appropriate contact on the printed circuit board on the transmitter to communicate power and data between the transmitter and the sensors.
An opposing outer end of the transmitter housing includes a readily 10 removable threaded cap 76 which provides access to a replaceable battery 78 providing electrical power to the transmitter and which can be readily disconnected for replacement as required. The transmitter functions to receive temperatures measured by the respective sensors together with Identifications of the respective sensors associated therewith and to transmit the measured temperatures to the
15 receiver with the sensor identification and the transmitter identification associated therewith.
The main housing 12 supports the tip 15 on the bottom end of the lowermost intermediate modular section 38 for ease of penetration of the housing into the bed of grain. In particular, the tip includes an inner portion at the longitudinal inner end having an internally threaded socket functioning identically to the second connectors 44 formed at the top end of each modular section 38. In this manner, the tip or another adjacent modular section can be interchangeably supported on the bottom end of any other modular section.
At the inner end, the inner portion has an overall diameter which is near to the diameter of the housing, but the diameter gradually increases in the longitudinal
The main housing 12 supports the tip 15 on the bottom end of the lowermost intermediate modular section 38 for ease of penetration of the housing into the bed of grain. In particular, the tip includes an inner portion at the longitudinal inner end having an internally threaded socket functioning identically to the second connectors 44 formed at the top end of each modular section 38. In this manner, the tip or another adjacent modular section can be interchangeably supported on the bottom end of any other modular section.
At the inner end, the inner portion has an overall diameter which is near to the diameter of the housing, but the diameter gradually increases in the longitudinal
16 direction from the inner end of the inner portion to an intermediate portion 84 of the tip where the diameter is greatest.
The intermediate portion 84 is generally cylindrical in shape between the inner portion 82 and an outer portion 86 forming the free end of the tip. The outer diameter at the intermediate portion 84 is greater than the inner portion and the housing so as to be bulged outwardly in relation to the diameter of the remainder of the probe.
The outer portion 86 is tapered so as to be reduced in diameter from a maximum diameter at the connection to the intermediate portion 84 to a minimum diameter forming an apex at the outer free end of the tip.
By providing a first connector 42 at the bottom end of the transmitter housing together with a first contact 66 mounted coaxially therein and a corresponding connector 44 at the inner portion of the tip, the modular sections 38 which are substantially identical to one another can be interchangeably connected in series between the transmitter housing and the tip as may be desired. In addition, the number of sections 38 in series between the transmitter housing and the tip can also be readily changed. In each instance electrical connection between the sensors and the transmitter housing is accomplished automatically by abutting contact between the first and second contacts of each adjacent pair of sections of the probe when performing the threaded mechanical connection between the first and second connectors 42 and 44 at each adjacent pair of sections.
In further embodiments, the tip 15 may include an auxiliary sensor which is flush mounted with the exterior surface of the intermediate portion or any other portion of the tip to provide an additional sensing ability. In particular, the sensor may comprise an infrared sensor allowing instant sensing of temperature at the tip of the
The intermediate portion 84 is generally cylindrical in shape between the inner portion 82 and an outer portion 86 forming the free end of the tip. The outer diameter at the intermediate portion 84 is greater than the inner portion and the housing so as to be bulged outwardly in relation to the diameter of the remainder of the probe.
The outer portion 86 is tapered so as to be reduced in diameter from a maximum diameter at the connection to the intermediate portion 84 to a minimum diameter forming an apex at the outer free end of the tip.
By providing a first connector 42 at the bottom end of the transmitter housing together with a first contact 66 mounted coaxially therein and a corresponding connector 44 at the inner portion of the tip, the modular sections 38 which are substantially identical to one another can be interchangeably connected in series between the transmitter housing and the tip as may be desired. In addition, the number of sections 38 in series between the transmitter housing and the tip can also be readily changed. In each instance electrical connection between the sensors and the transmitter housing is accomplished automatically by abutting contact between the first and second contacts of each adjacent pair of sections of the probe when performing the threaded mechanical connection between the first and second connectors 42 and 44 at each adjacent pair of sections.
In further embodiments, the tip 15 may include an auxiliary sensor which is flush mounted with the exterior surface of the intermediate portion or any other portion of the tip to provide an additional sensing ability. In particular, the sensor may comprise an infrared sensor allowing instant sensing of temperature at the tip of the
17 probe. In this instance, the second connector 44 is arranged similarly to the second connectors of each modular section to coaxially locate a second contact internally therein for abutment with the first contact of the bottom end of a lowermost modular section. The second contact of the tip in this instance provides power to the sensor and receives data from the sensor as described above with regard to the previous sensors while a suitable grounding connection is provided internally within the tip between the sensor and the second connector 44 for grounding connection with the modular sections of the housing thereabove.
This multi-zone bin temperature probe has been designed using a "one wire" temperature sensor. The one wire temperature sensor allows both data and power to run on the same conductor, in addition each temperature sensor has a unique serial number to allow sensor ID to be displayed on the handheld unit.
The multizone probe utilizes a modular design in that up to 5 probe sections can be screwed together without the use of any wires. When each modular section is 5 feet in length, the overall length of the probe can thus be approximately 25 feet in length or any other 5 foot interval.
As described above a connector was designed to allow easy coupling with a very strong 'mechanical connection as well as an electrical connection.
A tip is then screwed on one end and a transmitter module is screwed on the other end, or for better range can be extended outside the bin by a cable. The probe can be left in the bin for a long period and the temperature can be read when needed on a smart chart with a wireless adapter up to 300 feet away. Up to three transmitters with 10 sensors each can be monitored by one smart chart. This will save climbing to the top of the bin all the time to monitor the temperature. The advantage of this over a bin cable is that there is no installation needed therefore it is very portable and can be moved from bin
This multi-zone bin temperature probe has been designed using a "one wire" temperature sensor. The one wire temperature sensor allows both data and power to run on the same conductor, in addition each temperature sensor has a unique serial number to allow sensor ID to be displayed on the handheld unit.
The multizone probe utilizes a modular design in that up to 5 probe sections can be screwed together without the use of any wires. When each modular section is 5 feet in length, the overall length of the probe can thus be approximately 25 feet in length or any other 5 foot interval.
As described above a connector was designed to allow easy coupling with a very strong 'mechanical connection as well as an electrical connection.
A tip is then screwed on one end and a transmitter module is screwed on the other end, or for better range can be extended outside the bin by a cable. The probe can be left in the bin for a long period and the temperature can be read when needed on a smart chart with a wireless adapter up to 300 feet away. Up to three transmitters with 10 sensors each can be monitored by one smart chart. This will save climbing to the top of the bin all the time to monitor the temperature. The advantage of this over a bin cable is that there is no installation needed therefore it is very portable and can be moved from bin
18 to bin. Bin cables also have to be installed before the grain goes in whereas this can go in a full bin.
Since various modifications can be made in my invention as herein above described, and many apparently widely different embodiments of same made, it is intended that all matter contained in the accompanying specification shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not in a limiting sense.
Since various modifications can be made in my invention as herein above described, and many apparently widely different embodiments of same made, it is intended that all matter contained in the accompanying specification shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not in a limiting sense.
Claims (18)
1. A
temperature sensing probe for sensing temperature within a columnar bed of grain in an upright storage structure, the probe comprising:
an elongate housing extending in a longitudinal direction between opposing top and bottom ends, the housing including a plurality of modular sections releasably connected in series with one another in the longitudinal direction;
a tip supported at the bottom end of the housing and arranged for penetration into the bed of grain;
a main communication wire extending longitudinally through the housing, the main communication wire including a plurality of wire sections releasably connected in series with one another in which each wire section spans a respective one of the modular sections of the housing;
a plurality of temperature sensors supported on the housing at spaced positions in the longitudinal direction so as to be arranged for penetration into the bed of grain together with the housing, each temperature sensor: (i) being electrically connected to the main communication wire, (ii) having a sensor identification and (iii) being arranged to measure a temperature;
the main communication wire being operatively connected to at least one of: (i) a transmitter on the housing so as to communicate the measured temperatures and the sensor identification associated therewith from the sensors through the main communication wire to a remote user, and (ii) a power source on the housing so as to communicate electrical power from the power source through the main communication wire to the sensors;
each adjacent pair of modular sections being mechanically connected by a first mating connector on one of the modular sections of the adjacent pair of the modular sections and a second mating connector on another one of the modular sections of the adjacent pair of the modular sections which are arranged for mating connection;
the wire sections of each adjacent pair of modular sections being electrically connected by a first electrical contact on the wire section of one of the modular sections of the adjacent pair of modular sections and a second electrical contact on the wire section of another one of the modular sections of the adjacent pair of modular sections;
the first and second electrical contacts of each adjacent pair of modular sections being aligned and arranged for mating contact with one another when the first and second mating connectors of the adjacent pair of modular sections are connected with one another.
temperature sensing probe for sensing temperature within a columnar bed of grain in an upright storage structure, the probe comprising:
an elongate housing extending in a longitudinal direction between opposing top and bottom ends, the housing including a plurality of modular sections releasably connected in series with one another in the longitudinal direction;
a tip supported at the bottom end of the housing and arranged for penetration into the bed of grain;
a main communication wire extending longitudinally through the housing, the main communication wire including a plurality of wire sections releasably connected in series with one another in which each wire section spans a respective one of the modular sections of the housing;
a plurality of temperature sensors supported on the housing at spaced positions in the longitudinal direction so as to be arranged for penetration into the bed of grain together with the housing, each temperature sensor: (i) being electrically connected to the main communication wire, (ii) having a sensor identification and (iii) being arranged to measure a temperature;
the main communication wire being operatively connected to at least one of: (i) a transmitter on the housing so as to communicate the measured temperatures and the sensor identification associated therewith from the sensors through the main communication wire to a remote user, and (ii) a power source on the housing so as to communicate electrical power from the power source through the main communication wire to the sensors;
each adjacent pair of modular sections being mechanically connected by a first mating connector on one of the modular sections of the adjacent pair of the modular sections and a second mating connector on another one of the modular sections of the adjacent pair of the modular sections which are arranged for mating connection;
the wire sections of each adjacent pair of modular sections being electrically connected by a first electrical contact on the wire section of one of the modular sections of the adjacent pair of modular sections and a second electrical contact on the wire section of another one of the modular sections of the adjacent pair of modular sections;
the first and second electrical contacts of each adjacent pair of modular sections being aligned and arranged for mating contact with one another when the first and second mating connectors of the adjacent pair of modular sections are connected with one another.
2. The probe according to Claim 1 wherein each temperature sensor is supported in a peripheral wall of the housing.
3. The probe according to Claim 2 wherein each temperature sensor includes an exterior surface which is mounted to be substantially flush with a portion of the peripheral wall of the housing which surrounds the sensor.
4. The probe according to Claim 3 wherein the exterior surface of each temperature sensor is substantially flat and an exterior surface of the housing is substantially cylindrical, and wherein said portion of the peripheral wall about each temperature sensor includes a recessed portion which is gradually recessed in relation to the cylindrical exterior surface of the housing so as to be flush with the flat exterior surface the temperature sensor.
5. The probe according to any one of Claims 1 through 4 wherein the tip includes (i) an inner portion arranged to be coupled to the bottom end of the housing, (ii) an intermediate portion having an outer diameter which is greater than an outer diameter of the housing and which is greater than an outer diameter of the inner portion of the tip, and (iii) an outer portion having an outer diameter which is gradually reduced in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to an outer apex.
6. The probe according to any one of Claims 1 through 5 wherein the transmitter is supported on the top end of the housing.
7. The probe according to any one of Claims 1 through 6 in combination with a plurality of probes of like configuration, each probe having a transmitter arranged for communication with a common receiver, wherein each transmitter includes a transmitter identification and the receiver is arranged to associate each measured temperature received with the respective sensor identification and the respective transmitter identification.
8. The probe according to any one of Claims 1 through 7 in combination with an auxiliary multifunction device including a display screen and a receiver which receives the measured temperatures from the sensors, the receiver including a connector arranged for selective connection to the auxiliary multifunction device so as to be arranged to display the measured temperatures on the display screen of the auxiliary multifunction device.
9. The probe according to any one of Claims 1 through 8 wherein the main communication wire is connected to the transmitter so as to be arranged to communicate measured temperatures from the sensors to the transmitter along the main communication wire.
10. The probe according to any one of Claims 1 through 8 wherein the main communication wire is connected to both the transmitter and the power source so as to be arranged to both deliver electrical power from the transmitter to the sensors and to communicate measured temperatures from the sensors to the transmitter along the main communication wire.
11. The probe according to Claim 10 further comprising:
the first and second mating connectors of each adjacent pair of modular sections comprise a threaded connection; and the first and second electrical contacts of each adjacent pair of modular sections being connected in series with the main communication wire coaxially with the threaded connection of the adjacent pair of modular sections such that the first and second electrical contacts are arranged for abutment with one another as the first and second mating connectors are threadably connected.
the first and second mating connectors of each adjacent pair of modular sections comprise a threaded connection; and the first and second electrical contacts of each adjacent pair of modular sections being connected in series with the main communication wire coaxially with the threaded connection of the adjacent pair of modular sections such that the first and second electrical contacts are arranged for abutment with one another as the first and second mating connectors are threadably connected.
12. The probe according to any one of Claims 1 through 11 wherein the main wire is connected between the transmitter and each of the temperature sensors so as to be arranged to deliver electrical power from the transmitter to the sensors and wherein the housing is connected between the temperature sensors and the transmitter so as to function as an electrical ground.
13. The probe according to any one of Claims 1 through 12 wherein each modular section includes at least one of the temperature sensors supported thereon.
14. The probe according to Claim 13 wherein each modular section includes two temperature sensors at longitudinally spaced positions thereon.
15. The probe according to either one of Claims 1 through 14 wherein the modular sections of the housing are identical to one another so as to be interchangeable with one another.
16. The probe according to any one of Claims 1 through 15 wherein the tip includes a second connector arranged for mating connection with the first connector of a lowermost one of the modular sections.
17. The probe according to any one of Claims 1 through 15 wherein the transmitter is supported in a transmitter housing including a first connector arranged for mating connection with the second connector of an uppermost one of the modular sections.
18. The probe according to any one of Claims 1 through 15 further comprising:
the tip including a second connector arranged for mating connection with the first connector of a lowermost one of the modular sections;
the transmitter being supported in a transmitter housing including a first connector arranged for mating connection with the second connector of an uppermost one of the modular sections; and each first connector being arranged for connection with each second connector such that the modular sections are substantially identical to one another and readily interchangeable with one another in series between the tip and the transmitter housing.
the tip including a second connector arranged for mating connection with the first connector of a lowermost one of the modular sections;
the transmitter being supported in a transmitter housing including a first connector arranged for mating connection with the second connector of an uppermost one of the modular sections; and each first connector being arranged for connection with each second connector such that the modular sections are substantially identical to one another and readily interchangeable with one another in series between the tip and the transmitter housing.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2733876A CA2733876C (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2011-03-04 | Grain bin temperature probe |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2733876A CA2733876C (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2011-03-04 | Grain bin temperature probe |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2733876A1 CA2733876A1 (en) | 2012-09-04 |
| CA2733876C true CA2733876C (en) | 2018-09-18 |
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ID=46787388
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2733876A Active CA2733876C (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2011-03-04 | Grain bin temperature probe |
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| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2733876C (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US11598675B1 (en) | 2022-07-26 | 2023-03-07 | AGI Suretrack LLC | Cable system comprising in-line sensors |
Families Citing this family (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2015039344A1 (en) * | 2013-09-23 | 2015-03-26 | 无锡必创传感科技有限公司 | Temperature monitoring system |
| CN104950344A (en) * | 2015-06-03 | 2015-09-30 | 中国科学院南海海洋研究所 | Seabed heat flow long-term observation probe based on underwater robot platform |
| CN106872073A (en) * | 2015-12-10 | 2017-06-20 | 哈尔滨市三和佳美科技发展有限公司 | High temperature side gauge rod |
| CN113483909A (en) * | 2021-06-30 | 2021-10-08 | 深圳市贝兔兔科技有限公司 | Temperature measuring probe |
| CN117629433B (en) * | 2024-01-25 | 2024-04-19 | 川楚***际工程有限公司 | Be used for granary temperature measuring device |
-
2011
- 2011-03-04 CA CA2733876A patent/CA2733876C/en active Active
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US11598675B1 (en) | 2022-07-26 | 2023-03-07 | AGI Suretrack LLC | Cable system comprising in-line sensors |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2733876A1 (en) | 2012-09-04 |
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