WO2005017476A1

WO2005017476A1 - Temperature monitoring system

Info

Publication number: WO2005017476A1
Application number: PCT/GB2004/003494
Authority: WO
Inventors: Simon John Wood; Alan Guffick; Alan Coaker
Original assignee: Gamble Technologies Limited
Priority date: 2003-08-13
Filing date: 2004-08-12
Publication date: 2005-02-24
Also published as: GB2408103A; GB0318980D0

Abstract

A temperature sampling device for monitoring temperature of a substance, said sampling device: a sealed casing; an elongate probe member having at a first end, a temperature measuring sensor capable of producing a temperature signal; a wireless transmitter device casing capable of being energized by a radio frequency transmission, and capable of sending a wireless digital temperature signal. A reader device for reading data from a plurality of temperature sampling devices. Said reader device: a hand holdable casing; visual display; control device; wireless transmitter/receiver.

Description

TEMPERATURE MONITORING SYSTEM

Field of the Invention The present invention relates to temperature monitoring systems.

Background to the Invention There are a wide range of temperature critical environments and processes in which temperatures need to be measured at various stages of a process and at various different locations within a production line or processing environment. Examples of such environments include blood banks, laboratories, pathological facilities, food manufacturing facilities and storage rooms, hospitality catering, food retailing, and the like.

For example in the food industry, temperature control safety systems need to be in place by law at various places within the food production chain. For example there is a food safety system known as hazard analysis critical control point (HACCP) which is specified by European legislation. Further European legislation is due to come into force on January 01 , 2005, which specifies that every business involved in food production and distribution needs to have a HACCP system in place, and must have the ability to trace their product both from their supplier and to their customer, so that in the event of a food products recall, food products can be identified.

For measuring temperature of stored food product, one traditional known method is to have a thermometer directly inserted into the food product, or alternatively to have a thermometer inserted into a simulation substance, that is, a substance which simulates the food being stored. Some thermometers have a mechanism which automatically plots temperature with time over a period, onto a paper chart. Other known systems have an electronic display, which may be mounted on a wall, for example, which gives a visual digital read out of temperature. There are also known logging systems which produce a list of temperatures over a period of time. Known temperature monitoring systems range from basic hand held temperature monitoring devices, through to temperatures data logging systems. Some known data loggers can download data directly to a personal computer. Other known data loggers can download to personal digital assistant devices (PDA's) via radio link or through contact buttons.

At each stage of a food production or food processing system, it is known to measure temperature of food products and food constituents, for the purposes of both maintaining food safety, and for diagnostic purposes. Food products need to have their temperature monitored both during production and processing, and during storage of finished food products. Further, diagnostic information concerning the operation of the plant and environment in which the food is held needs to be collected.

For example, where food products are stored in a chill room, if there is a rise in temperature in the chill room, then the food products may deteriorate, and become unusable due to bacteria, or degradation of the food product. Having information on the temperature history of the food product enables manufacturers and/or distributors to assess whether the food products are safe to reach the consumer, or whether the food products are unfit for consumption and are wasted.

Further, networked temperature monitoring systems are known, in which a plurality of monitors transmit temperature to a central server computer entity.

Downloading is performed either over hard wired systems, or over wireless links.

In process monitoring, temperature needs to be sampled at different points in a manufacturing process, for example to establish whether a food item enters a manufacturing environment at the right temperature, is cooked to the correct temperature, or is frozen to a correct temperature. Within an organization, there may be several control points, from receipt of a product, through storage in a storage area, through a preparation area, through a cooking area, and through to a final storage area for storage of finished food products.

There are basically two issues, storage and process, and it is necessary to monitor temperature over both aspects, at all points within a facility, in order to comply with future legislation on food temperature safety.

Fully integrated systems which allow full traceability from end product, through to different ingredients, where the temperatures of end products, intermediate products, and ingredients are accountable throughout the whole process are not known in the prior art.

Specific implementations according to the present invention aim to increase the level of traceability of food products within a food production and storage chain.

Full traceability involves more than monitoring a single parameter such as temperature. Other parameters such as: the person monitoring the temperature; a time at which the temperature is measured; a location/place at which a temperature is measured; a batch number of ingredient, food or food sub product; and if there is a problem, any corrective action which has been taken, are other parameters which may need to be recorded or monitored.

The traditional thermometer device does not collect a series of parameters, but rather a human operator takes a temperature, and writes down the temperature on the chart or logbook. Known logging thermometers have developed, in which parameters other than temperature can be recorded.

There are inherent problems with conventional hand held thermometers, mainly relating to the connection between the temperature sampling device, and the display device of such thermometers. The connection is usually by way of a coiled cable and a connector, however these are susceptable to damage and abuse, and when used in a food environment, pose a hygiene issue, since they are difficult to clean.

Conventional hand held electronic thermometers are often described as 'digital' because they include a temperature display which is in digital format.

However, in these known hand held electronic thermometers, the actual sensing is based upon analogue technologies. The analogue technologies produce a resistance or voltage which is proportional to temperature. An analogue signal from a sensor is processed by other analogue circuitry, before being converted to a digital representation for display.

Summary of the Invention Specific embodiments according to the present invention aim to address the above mentioned problems with known temperature monitoring systems and hand held thermometers. In one specific embodiment, the known cable connection between a hand set and a sampling device is replaced by a wireless radio connection. This has an advantage that the temperature sampling device can be engineered without the need for electrical connectors, and can therefore be made easier to clean and sterilise. Similarly, the handset has a reduced number of connectors, there is no coiled cable between the hand set and the sampling device to collect dirt, bacteria etc.

Further, the known analogue sensor device is replaced by a fully digital sensor device. This has an advantage of removing the need for a separate correction circuit to correct for changes in connection resistance, and additional temperature compensation circuitry.

In a preferred embodiment, the wireless connection is powered from the handset, and the temperature sampling device gains its power from a radio frequency signal received from the hand set. This has an advantage that there is no need for a replaceable battery in the temperature sampling device, and therefore the temperature sampling device can be engineered to have a fully sealed casing having an outer surface which is smooth and easy to clean, and which is resistant to the build up of dirt, particles of product, bacteria and other contaminants. By providing a fully sealed casing for the temperature sampling device, the temperature sampling device can be designed to be cleanable using strong chemicals or cleaning agents. To be capable of clean using pressure washing systems and/or ultrasonic cleaning.

Preferably, the temperature sampling device has its own unique identification, which is transmitted as a digital signal to a handset. This is an advantage of enabling unique identification of each of a plurality of temperature sampling devices within a temperature monitoring system, and thereby allowing a monitoring device to distinguish between individual temperature sampling devices.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a temperature sampling device for sampling a temperature of a substance, said device comprising: a sealed casing; at least one temperature measuring sensor capable of producing a temperature signal; a wireless transmitter device casing capable of being energized by a radio frequency transmission, and capable of sending a wireless digital temperature signal.

Preferably, there is provided an elongate probe member comprising said at least one temperature measuring sensor. The probe member may comprise a plurality of temperature sensors spaced apart along a length of the probe, to allow multiple temperature measurements simultaneously along the length of the probe. Preferably, a said temperature measuring sensor is mounted at a first end of said elongate probe member, such that when said elongate probe member is inserted into a substance, said temperature measurement sensor is positioned within said substance. Said sealed casing may be shaped in the form of a handle, such that a person can urge said elongate probe member into a substance by pushing said handle towards said substance.

Said temperature measuring sensor may comprise a digital sensor.

Said elongate probe member preferably comprises a hollow tubular member.

Preferably, said temperature measuring sensor comprises a digital sensor; and digital signals representing temperature are sent along said probe between said temperature measurement sensor, and a controller device located within said sealed casing.

The temperature sampling device may comprise an electronic controller circuit capable of storing a unique identification code for identifying said temperature sampling device. Said casing may comprise first and second casing moldings, which are connected together to form a seal capable of withstanding a sterilization process for sterilizing said casing. The first and second casing moldings, may be sonically welded together.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a reader device for reading data from a plurality of temperature reading devices, said reader device comprising: a hand holdable casing; a visual display device capable of displaying a display interface; a control device for controlling the operation of said reader; and a wireless transmitter/receiver for communicating with said at least one temperature reading device.

Preferably, said casing is shaped to fit into a docking station, for download of data stored in said reader device. The reader device may further comprise a bar code reader.

Preferably, the reader device is capable of sending program instructions over a wireless communications link, for programming a temperature reader device,

The reader device may comprise a wireless data port for sending and receiving data to a docking station, for download and/or upload of data to and from said reader device. Said visual display device is preferably operable to display menus for functions selected from the set: identifying a user of the reader device; identifying a location of a temperature reader device; identifying a product, subject of a monitoring operation; identifying a batch number of a product subject of a monitoring operation; reading a temperature of a product; presenting diagnostic information concerning a product.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a temperature monitoring system comprising: at least one temperature monitoring device; and at least one reader device capable of reading a temperature data from said at least one temperature monitoring device.

Preferably said temperature monitoring device communicates with said reader device via a wireless communications link.

The system may further comprise a remote server device, said remote server device capable of receiving diagnostic data from said controller device over a communications network.

The method may further comprise allocating an operator identification data to said reader device, for identifying an operator of said reader device. According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a temperature sampling device for sampling temperature of a substance, said sampling device comprising:

5 a sealed casing; a detector capable of sensing a received signal containing a temperature data; and 0 a wireless transmitter device positioned within said sealed casing, said transmitter device capable of sending a wireless signal specifying said temperature.

Preferably, said sealed casing is shaped in the form of a handle, such that5 a person can point said sampling device in a direction from which said signal is received from.

Preferably, the temperature sampling device comprises an electronic circuit capable of storing a unique identification code for identifying said o temperature monitoring sampling device.

Said casing may comprise first and second casing moldings, which are connected together to form a seal capable of withstanding a sterilization process for sterilizing said casing.5 The temperature sampling device may further comprise a light emitting device, for illuminating a field of view, from which a temperature signal is to be received.

o Said light emitting device may comprise a laser. Said light emitting device may comprise a light emitting diode (L.E.D). Other aspects according to the invention, are as recited in the claims herein. 5 Brief Description of the Drawings For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, there will now be described by way of example only, specific embodiments, methods and processes according to the present l o invention with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Fig. 1 illustrates schematically components to a monitoring system according to a first specific embodiment of the present invention;

15 Fig. 2 illustrates schematically usage of a temperature sampling device and a hand held reader device according to the specific embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 3 illustrates schematically a first temperature sampling device according 20 to the specific embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 4 illustrates schematically in side view, the temperature sampling device of Fig. 3;

25 Fig. 5 illustrates schematically in cut away view, the first temperature sampling device of Figs. 3 and 4;

Fig. 6 illustrates schematically in close up cut away view, a detail of a connection between a casing and a probe of the first temperature sampling 3 o device; Fig. 7 illustrates schematically in cut away view, a sensor component provided at one end of a probe of the temperature sampling device;

Figs. 8 to 10 illustrates schematically sections across the first temperature sampling device;

Figs. 11 and 12 illustrates schematically in partial cross section view, a method of sealing of first and second casing components of the first temperature sampling device;

Fig. 13 illustrates schematically in isometric view, a second temperature sampling device according to the specific embodiment of the present invention, which operates to sample the temperature of a surface by use of an infra red beam;

Fig. 14 illustrates schematically in side view, the second temperature sampling device of Fig. 13;

Fig. 15 illustrates schematically in cut away side view, the second temperature sampling device of Figs. 13 and 14;

Fig. 16 illustrates schematically in cut away plan view, the second temperature sampling device of Figs. 13 to 15; Figs. 17 to 19 illustrates schematically individual cross sectional views across the second temperature sampling device;

Fig. 20 illustrates schematically a method of sealing first and second casing components of the second temperature sampling device; Fig. 21 illustrates schematically one example of a tag device for attachment to a product or batch of products, as the product(s) passes along a production or storage facility; Fig. 22 illustrates schematically components of a hand held reader and programming device according to the specific embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 23 illustrates schematically an operating system of the reader and programming device;

Fig. 24 illustrates schematically a reverse side of the readerand programming device; Fig. 25 illustrates schematically a front view of the readerand programming device;

Fig. 26 illustrates schematically in side view the readerand programming device;

Fig. 27 illustrates schematically in cut away view the reader and programming device as viewed from another side;

Fig. 28 illustrates schematically a detail of a seal between first and second casing components of the reader and programming device, in cut away view;

Fig. 29 illustrates schematically a first user display of the reader and programming device, for identifying an operator of the device; Fig. 30 illustrates schematically a second display of the reader and programming device, for identifying a monitoring location; Fig. 31 illustrates schematically a third display of the reader and monitoring device, for identifying a product;

Fig. 32 illustrates schematically a fourth display of the reader and monitoring device, for identifying a product batch number;

Fig. 33 illustrates schematically a fifth display of the reader and monitoring device, for displaying a temperature reading of a product, and providing diagnostic information on the temperature reading;

Fig. 34 illustrates schematically a sixth display of a reader and monitoring device, for providing diagnostic information concerning a product;

Fig. 35 illustrates schematically a third temperature sampling device according to a further specific embodiment of the present invention, having a plurality of antenna devices, giving an improved field of electromagentic coupling around the temperature sampling device; and

Fig. 36 illustrates schematically a fourth temperature sampling device according to yet a further specific embodiment of the present invention, having a plurality of antennas, positioned with reception fields transverse to each other, for improved coupling with a reader device when placed adjacent to said fourth temperature sampling device. Detailed Description There will now be described by way of example a specific mode contemplated by the inventors. In the following description numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding. It will be apparent however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without limitation to these specific details. In other instances, well known methods and structures have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the description. ln this specification, the term 'wireless' is intended to encompass all means of communication which are possible, without the need for a physical electrical conductor. These include radio frequency transmission and reception, as well as

5 transmission/reception in the infra red, and/visible regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, and ultra sonic signals.

In this specification the term 'light' is used to encompass both visible and invisible light, including, but not limited to infra-red light.0 In this specific embodiment herein, digital temperature sensing users a semi conductor based technology which measures temperature by comparing the frequencies of two oscillators, to produce a serial digital data stream which can be read by a micro processor. In addition to the temperature data, a unique5 identification code is also transmitted, allowing absolute traceability of the data source by virtue of its unique identification.

Using a purely digital temperature sensing system has an advantage that, unlike analogue based systems the reading of temperature is not affected by o changes in connection resistance to the sensor, and does not require additional temperature compensation circuitry within the sampling device.

Referring to Fig. 1 herein, there is illustrated schematically components of a monitoring system according to a first specific embodiment of the present5 invention. The monitoring system comprises: one or a plurality of temperature sampling devices 100, 101 for monitoring the temperature of items; at least one hand holdable reader device 102 for collecting temperature an other data; at least one data monitoring station 103, in the form of a computer entity configured to collect data ; and one or a plurality of docking stations 104 for downloading data o from the one or more reader devices, and sending the data to the monitoring station 103; and one or a plurality of tags, which are attachable to individual products or items, and which are capable of communicating with a said monitoring device 101 , and which are capable of storing and/or transmitting data relating to a product to which the tag is attachable.

Referring to Fig. 2 herein, there is illustrated schematically in perspective view, usage of a temperature sampling device 200, and a reader device 201. A user inserts the hand held temperature sampling device into an item, for example a food item, of which the temperature is to be monitored and leaves the temperature sampling device in place, positioned in the monitored item. Using the reader device 201 , the operator. Using the reader device 201 the operator collects data from the temperature sampling device over a wireless link. Various types of data may be collected, including temperature data, and data uniquely identifying the temperature sampling device.

The reader device can also optionally be used to program the temperature sampling device, or a monitoring device, with details identifying the location of the temperature sampling device, an operator in charge of the temperature sampling device and date/day/time data.

Known radio frequency identification technology has been originally developed for security tagging and asset management purposes. Unlike other radio frequency based systems, which have a transmitter and a receiver, radio frequency identification technology only requires transmitting circuitry on the reading device and not the tag, allowing the tags to be of a much lower cost, and more importantly, removing the need for a battery power source within the temperature sampling device itself. This means that the temperature sampling device can be manufactured as a sealed unit, and therefore can stand up to sterilization processes, the rigorous washing processes including elevated temperatures. Known RFID systems , for example those operating with a carrier frequency in the range 13 to 20 MHz may be used.

Referring to Fig. 3 of the accompanying drawings, there is illustrated schematically components of a first temperature sampling device according to the specific embodiment of the present invention. The first temperature sampling device comprises an exterior casing 300, having at one end, an elongate hollow probe member 301 , at the tip of the probe member there being provided a digital temperature sensor chip 302; a micro controller 303 for controlling the temperature sampling device; a power supply 304 for generating power from a wireless transmission received by the temperature sampling device; a radio frequency transponder interface 305 capable of transmitting and responding to radio frequency wireless signals; and antenna coil 306 for sending and receiving data signals, and for receiving a wireless power signal. The digital temperature sensor 302 communicates with the micro controller via a plurality of elongate electrical connections 307 extending along a length of the probe between the digital temperature sensor chip and the micro controller. The power supply may comprise a capacitor or a battery device, and is charged by a wireless signal received from the antenna coil 306. The antenna coil 306 provides the functions of sending and receiving data signals, and of energizing the power supply.

The first temperature sampling device provides an intrusive temperature measurement at one or more points inside a product who's temperature is to be measured.

Referring to Fig. 4 herein, there is illustrated schematically in side view, the temperature sampling device of Fig. 3. Outer casing 400 contains the micro controller, power supply, radio frequency transponder interface and antenna coil and is shaped in the form of a handle, such that an operator can grasp the casing, and insert the probe into a product of which the temperature is to be measured. In use, and depending upon the consistency of the product to be measured, the probe inserts into the product, and is capable of holding the temperature sampling device sticking out of the product, such that once inserted into the product, the operator need not disturb or touch the temperature sampling device thereafter, with measurements of the temperature sampling device being made without the need to make direct contact with the sampling device, and without the need to disturb the positioning of the probe within the product. The elongate probe member is hollow, and preferably is of a material having a high thermal conductivity, such as surgical steel, stainless steel or the like, such that efficient heat transfer from the product, through the material of the probe, and to the temperature sensor chip is achieved.

Referring to Fig. 5 herein, there is illustrated schematically in cut away view, the first temperature sampling device of Figs. 3 and 4, showing one half of the casing 500, which contains a printed circuit board 501; the elongate probe 502; and a radio frequency antenna 503.

Referring to Fig. 6 of the accompanying drawings, there is illustrated schematically in greater detail, a cut away view of an intersection of the probe component with the casing of the first temperature sampling device 600 is seated within a channel in the casing 601 , and retained within the casing by a sleeve member 602. The probe is clamped to the casing by a clamp member 603, within the sleeve member. The sleeve member is sealed within the casing, by way of its tapered shape which fits into a compartment in the casing, and sealing of the intersection at one end of the sleeve is made between the sleeve member and the outer casing is made by means of an 'O' ring 604 which prevents the ingress of moisture, and other contaminants between the sleeve member and the casing. At an opposite end of the sleeve member, is provided a washer 605, for seating the sleeve member within its compartment formed by the outer casing. Referring to Fig. 7 herein, there is illustrated schematically in partial cut away view a tip of the probe member. The probe member comprises a hollow elongate tubular member 700, made of a thermally conductive material. Within the hollows tubular member, is inserted a digital temperature sensing device 701 , in the form of a semi-conductor chip. The digital temperature sensing device is positioned in the end of the probe, and is mounted on a elongate rigid strip or rod

702, which also carries one or more conductive strips 703, 704 for sending and transmitting data and power signals to the temperature sensing device. Between an outer wall of the tubular member, and the sensing device, thermal conductivity may be maintained by means of thermally conductive and electrically insulating paste inserted into a void between the inner wall of the tubular member and the digital temperature sensing device.

A known digital sensor, for example a known temperature sensor used to locally monitor a critical area of a circuit board in a hard disk drive of a computer entity, or another board, is suitable for application in the digital temperature sampling device described herein.

In other embodiments, the elongate probe member need not be a hollow needle like member, but may comprise a flat strip of material suitable for insertion between packs of products, or an elongate probe having a square, cylindrical or triangular cross sectional profile, or may have a saw blade like profile to enable easier insertion into a product.

In a yet further variation, the temperature probe may have a plurality of temperature sensor devices positioned along a length of the probe member, so that a temperature profile can be determined into a core of a product, as th eprobe penetrates the product. For example, where a temperature probe is inserted in to a meat joint, and the temperature probe has a set of spaced apart temperature sensors at positions along the probe, then a temperature profile into the centre of the meat joint can be established, and monitored. The individual temperature sensors are each individually readable, and each provide a separate digital signal which may be transmitted by the temperature sampling device, for example in multiplexed mode.

Referring to Figs. 8 to 10 herein, there is illustrated schematically sections across the first sampling device at positions B - B; C - C; and D - D respectively as shown in Fig. 4 herein. Referring to Fig. 8 herein, there is shown in cutaway cross sectional view, first and second casing moldings 800, 801 respectively; and printed circuit board member 802. The printed circuit board member is mounted onto protrusions extending from the first casing molding 801.

Referring to Fig. 9 herein, there is illustrated schematically in cut away view, the first and second casing moldings, at a position where the casings have a formed indent, for enabling a person to grip the sampling device using their forefinger.

Referring to Fig. 10 herein, there is illustrated schematically a further cut away view of the sampling device at a position D - D, showing first and second casing moldings, and the printed circuit board. The casing of the sampling device is sealed in a manner which reduces contamination of the temperature sampling device.

Referring to Fig. 11 herein, there is illustrated schematically in partial cross sectional view, first and second casing moldings 1100, 1101 respectively being offered to each other during a stage of manufacture of the sampling device, immediately prior to forming a joint between the first and second casing members. The first casing member is provided with a lower flange 1102 provided on an inner surface of the first casing member. Second casing member 1101 is provided with an upper flange 1103, which corresponds to face opposite the inner flange of the first casing member, when the first and second casing members are offered to each other.

Referring to Fig. 12 herein, there is illustrated schematically in partial cross sectional view, first and second casing members after being pressed together, and wherein a sonic weld is formed between the respective flanges of the first and second casing members. The first and second casing members are sealed by the weld, so that the casing forms an integrated hollow body, wherein the weld seals the interior of the body against the ingress of moisture or other contamination.

Referring to Fig. 13 herein, there is illustrated schematically isometric view, a second temperature sampling device according to a fourth specific embodiment of the present invention, which is capable of sampling the temperature of products or surfaces in a non intrusive manner, for example, as they pass through a processing or storage facility. Measurement of temperature using infra red radiation is known technology, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. The second temperature sampling device comprises a sealed casing 1300, shaped in the form of a handle for holding by an operator, a light transparent window 1301 for receiving infra red light signals, and a light source 1302 for producing an illuminating light spot in a field of view of the device, to enable an operator to see where the device is directed at and therefore, a surface from which the device is sampling a temperature.

The device operates by receiving infra red radiation emitted form the surface of a body at which the device is directed at, for example a food product, an oven interior, or a cold room wall. An infra red detector detects the radiation, and the device generates a digital temperature signal from an output signal of the detector.

As an example of usage, suppose a person wishes to measure a temperature of a box of drinks in a cold store, then the person may point the second temperature sampling device at the box of drinks, being guided by the visible light spot as to where the device is directed at, and then read the temperature of the box using the hand held reader device, which receives digital signal from the second temperature sampling device over the wireless link. The person may input details of the location of the drinks, a product description of the drinks and other information, in to the hand held reader device to match the sampled temperature measurement, and for later downloading to a docking station. Referring to Fig. 14 herein, there is shown in side view, the second temperature sampling device of Fig. 13. The second temperature sampling device comprises a radio frequency transmitter/receiver 1400 capable of transmitting and/or receiving data signals to a hand reader device.

Referring to Fig. 15 herein, there is illustrated schematically in cut away view, the second temperature sampling device of Figs. 13 and 14. The second temperature sampling device comprises a long range, non contact, non intrusive temperature sampling device which operates by determining a temperature form the infra red light emitted by a surface at which the device is directed. The second temperature sampling device comprises a power supply in the form of one or more batteries 1500; one or a plurality of printed circuit boards 1502, 1503 for carrying a micro processor; and an amplifier for amplifying data signals; a receiver for receiving data signals; and a power regulator for regulating power to a light emitting device; a light emitting device 1504, for example a laser or light emitting diode; and an infra red light sensor device 1505, for example a photo diode or similar, for receiving light signals from a surface, which contain information about the temperature of the surface.

Referring to Fig. 16 herein, there is illustrated schematically in plan cut away view, the monitoring device of Figs. 13 to 15, and showing a set of battery contacts 1600, 1601 for making connection to a battery power supply1602; an upper printed circuit board 1603; radio frequency antenna coil 1604 for sending and receiving radio frequency signals; and sensor device 1605. Referring to Figs. 17 to 19 herein, there is illustrated schematically an end elevation, a cut away cross section, a first cut away view, and a second cut away view respectively of the monitoring device of Figs. 13 to 16. Fig. 17 illustrates clearly the sensor device 1700 and light emitting device

1701.

Fig. 18 illustrates a cross sectional view at a position corresponding with a battery housing portion of the casing, showing connection of the first and second casing moldings together, clamping the batteries in position.

Fig. 19 illustrates schematically a second cut away view, at a position of the upper and lower printed circuit boards, showing location of the printed circuit boards within the body of the housing, secured therein by one or more locating lugs 1900, and a sheet of double sided foam 1901.

Referring to Fig. 20 herein, there is illustrated schematically a joint between first and second casing moldings, showing an elongate rubber seal member 2002. First casing member 2000 has a channel formed around a perimeter of the casing. Within the perimeter is placed the elongate rubber or plastics seal member 2002. The second casing molding 2001 has an elongate ridge formed peripherally around a perimeter of the second casing molding, which corresponds with the channel in the first casing housing, such that when the first and second casing moldings are located with each other, the ridge of the second casing molding urges the sealing member tightly in the channel of the first casing member, thereby providing a seal between an interior of the casing and the exterior of the casing, which prevents the ingress of moisture or other contamination. Referring to Fig. 21 herein, there is illustrated schematically one example of a tag device, in the form of a label, capable of being attached to a product as it passes along a process line. The tag device comprises a substrate material 2100 which may have a high thermal conductivity, and which may be coated on an underside, with a layer of adhesive material; a bar code 2101 , being readable by a bar code reader; a photo detector 2102 for receiving light signals, for example from a laser or light emitting device of a monitoring device; a data processing circuit 2103; optionally, a solar cell device 2104 for providing power; and a transmitter/receiver, in the form of an RFID tag , for communicating with a hand held reader and monitoring device.

The processing circuitry may comprise an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) which may be powered by the solar cell device 2104, or which may alternatively may have its on board power supply, such as a battery or a capacitor. The tag comprises a transmitter/receiver device for transmitting and receiving data signals to a monitoring device, in the best mode, being an RFID device operating at a frequency in the range 13 to 20 MHz, and capable of communicating with the corresponding RFID reader in the hand held reader and monitoring device. The data processor has a unique device identification generator component which generates a unique identification signal for uniquely identifying the tag. The tag may comprise on-board sensors, such as a digital solid state temperature sensor for sensing a temperature of the tag, which may be directly attached to a product, or other sensors, for example, chemical sensors, sensors for detecting exposure to moisture, light/dark, or the like.

The reader and monitoring device may be placed at positions along a supply line, so that as products pass through a field of view of the data collection and monitoring device, data is automatically collected from each tag and stored within the reader and monitoring device. Periodically, an operator may download data from the reader and monitoring device corresponding to a plurality of products, using a docking station as described herein. This allows an operator to collect a large amount of data for a large amount of products, with a minimum amount of manual data entry. Data types which may be carried on the tag device attached to a product may include one or more of the following:

- A unique identifier, identifying the individual tag itself. - A product identifier identifying the product. - A temperature identifying a temperature of a product. - A batch number identifying a batch number of the product to which the tag is attached. - A set of product specific safety parameters, such as minimum temperature, and maximum temperature at which the product must be stored.

Data according to the above types may be transmitted from each tag device to the monitoring device, as the product passes through the field of view of the monitoring device. The monitoring device may store a record of each product which passes the monitoring device, which may then be downloaded to a hand held reader device using the radio frequency wireless link.

Upon interrogation by the reader and monitoring, the tag may send data describing:

- Data identifying the tag itself. - Data identifying a product and/or batch number of product. - Data describing a temperature of the tag (and hence the product). - Data describing other environmental parameters, such as moisture, chemicals experienced by the tag , and like parameters.

In some embodiments, the tag may be programmable, such that it accumulates a history data describing a history of events, and/or environmental parameters which the tag has experienced whilst attached to the product. The tag may additionally may be programmed via a wireless communications link with a monitoring device, to store details of any corrective action taken by an operator to change environmental parameters applied to the product. For example, where a product experiences a problematic environmental parameter, for example it becomes to hot or too cold, an operator may record the fact that the product has experienced an out of limit environmental condition by programming the monitoring device to transmit a signal to each tag as it passes, so that the tag can record details of the corrective action taken. In this way, as a tag passes along a production or process line, it may accumulate data from various monitoring devices, which can be re-read by further monitoring devices further down the line. By the time a product reaches the end of a production line, a tag as attached to the product may store a collection of data describing a process history of the product as it has passed along the production line. Each product may have its own particular tag, so that a level of information is available for each product which describes environmental parameters experienced by that product, together with any corrective action taken at various locations along a process line, giving a high degree of accountability and information concerning the history of a particular product item, or batch of such product items.

Referring to Fig. 22 herein, there is illustrated schematically in block diagram form, components of a hand held reader and programming device 2200.

The reader device comprises a controller 2201 , including a data processor; a data storage device 2202, for example a random access memory; a power supply 2203 for providing power to the whole device; one or more rechargeable power storage devices 2204, for example rechargeable batteries, or rechargeable capacitor devices; a key pad user interface 2205, capable of receiving manual user input instructions; a display device 2206, for example a liquid crystal display (LCD) device, for presenting one or a plurality of menus for programming the reader device, and/or a temperature sampling device; and for visualizing data received by the reader device from one or more temperature sampling devices, tag devices, or monitoring devices; optionally, a bar code reader device 2207 for reading bar codes of tags and/or temperature sampling devices and/or monitoring devices; a wireless base station transmitter/receiver device 2208; and an antenna device 2209 for transmitting and receiving wireless signals.

The power supply may comprise an inductively coupled coil, which receives power from a corresponding coil in a docking station, when the reader sits within the docking station. The docking station may provide power to the power supply. The power supply may then trickle charge a capacitor or battery device 2204, enabling self contained operation of the reader device. The controller device 2201 and data storage device 2202 may comprise program code instructions for operating the reader device, and for generating a plurality of menu displays on the display device 2206, and for receiving and processing operator instructions received by the key pad interface 2205. Referring to Fig. 23 herein, there is illustrated schematically an operating system of the hand held reader device of Fig. 22.

The operating system 2300 comprises: a display driver 2301 for driving the visual display, including generating electronic signals for driving liquid crystal display devices and icons; a key pad driver 2302 for driving the key pad user interface, the key pad driver capable of receiving signals from individual input buttons of the key pad device, and converting these into digital signals representing key pads; a bar code driver/interface 2303 for driving and interfacing the bar code reader device; and a base station interface driver 2304 for interfacing with the wireless base station; and a set of control algorithms 2305.

The control algorithms may be written in program code instructions for controlling the processor of the controller device, to perform functions including: - Entering data describing a location of a temperature sensing or monitoring device. - Entering data describing a human operator, operating the reader device, and/or taking a reading from one or more temperature sensing devices or monitoring devices. - Inputting data describing a product type or description,. - Inputting data describing a batch number of product. - Displaying data describing a temperature reading of a product. - Displaying date describing whether a product is within or outside a predetermined range of temperature. - Receiving instructions to continue a reading process or to abort a reading process. - Providing diagnostic data to the display device, indicating to an operator an action to take in respect of a particular product or batch of products from which the reader has received information of. Referring to Fig. 24 of the accompanying drawings, there is illustrated schematically in rear view, a reader and programming device according to the specific embodiment of the present invention. The device comprises a sealed easily cleanable casing 2400 having a wireless transponder device 2401 and a transparent window 2402, through which a light beam passes to illuminate a field of view in front of the device.

Referring to Fig. 25 herein, there is illustrated schematically in cut away front view, the reader and monitoring device of Fig. 24. The device comprises a printed circuit board 2500 to which are mounted the components described with reference to Fig. 22 herein; and a liquid crystal display 2501 , presented upwardly towards an operator, as the operator holds the device in the palm of their hand. Additionally, there is a key pad 2502.

Referring to Fig. 26 herein, there is illustrated schematically in side view, the reader and programming device of Figs. 24 and 25. Referring to Fig. 27 herein, there is illustrated schematically in cut away side view, from the other side, the reader and monitoring device of Figs. 24 to 26. The device comprises upper and lower casing moldings 2700, 2701 respectively, the upper casing having a plastics transparent screen 2702, through which can be 5 viewed a liquid crystal device 2703 mounted to a printed circuit board 2704. The lower casing molding 2701 comprises a light transparent window 2705, through which light can be received onto a sensor device 2706, for example a photo diode detector, and also through which light can be transmitted from a light source, for example a laser diode and a light emitting diode. The detector and o light source are contained within a bulge 2707 within the lower casing molding.

Referring to Fig. 28 herein, there is illustrated schematically a sealing together of the upper and lower casing moldings of the device, at a lower end of the device, upper casing molding 2800 is provided with a channel 2801 which5 extends around a perimeter of the upper casing, and into which a rubber or plastics seal member 2802 is fitted. Lower casing member 2803 is provided with a peripheral protrusion 2804, extending around a perimeter of the lower casing housing, and which locates with the channel and sealing member on the upper casing member. When the upper and lower casing members are connected o together by one or more screw members, 2805, the casing becomes completely sealed and impervious to the ingress of moisture, contaminants or the like, and the reader and programming device is therefore capable of undergoing sterilization processes, elevated temperatures, pressure washing and other processes.5 Referring to Fig. 29 herein, there is illustrated schematically a first user display of the reader and programming device.

In general, the user interface including the display and key pad of the device 0 is made as simple as possible, so that a minimum amount of training is required, and so that operators are not hindered by the complexity of the interface in taking decisions on data collection and applying corrective action to products which have experienced an out of limit environment.

The first display comprises a list 2900 of at least one user of a device, which can be selected by activating a key pad button 2901 , the key pad buttons are re- assignable as between different displays to perform different functions. In a case of the first display, an arrow icon 2902 indicates that the key pad button 2901 is assigned for selection of user. A second key pad button 2903 has a corresponding 'tick' icon indicating that the second button is assigned for accepting a selected user. A third button 2904 has a corresponding arrow icon 2905 generated, and is assigned the function of accepting a supervisor of the operator. An operator can enter their own data, or the data of their supervisor, optionally by presenting a pre-programmed tag device, for example on a key fob, in front of the reader and programming device, which is programmed to automatically input the supervisors details, and amend the first display accordingly to add their name to the list of possible operators.

Referring to Fig. 30 of the accompanying drawings, there is illustrated schematically a second user interface display of the reader and programming device. In a second display, a set of locations may be scrolled, and at the point of reading, a user may select a particular location from which data is being read from a temperature sampling device or from a monitoring device.

Referring to Fig. 31 herein, there is illustrated schematically a third interface display for selecting a product. Different products may be scrolled using the key pad interface, and when the correct product for the location at which the operators reach is found, a key pad may be activate to enter that product for a data recording operating at that location. Referring to Fig. 32 herein, the is illustrated schematically a fourth display of the reader and monitoring device, for displaying a batch number and product description. A user may select a batch number by scrolling through a number of batch numbers by pressing a key pad 3200 specifically designated for scrolling, 5 and indicated by a scroll icon 3201 , and then select a batch number using an 'accept' keypad, indicated by a 'accept' icon 3203.

Referring to Fig. 33 of the accompanying drawings there is illustrated schematically a fifth interface display, for reading a temperature sampling device0 or a monitoring device, and displaying a temperature of a product of batch of products on the display. An operator can view a display in real time. Further, the reader and programming device is pre-programmed with acceptable upper and lower limits by a particular product. If the actual temperature read exceeds one of those limits, then an alert message 3300 may be displayed, and individual key5 pad buttons 3301 , 3302 may be allocated and indicated by means of corresponding respective items 3303 and 3304 respectively, to continue or to abort the processing stage of the product.

Referring to Fig 34 herein, there is illustrated schematically a diagnostic o display, generated by the reader and programming device. The diagnostic display may be generated in response to a temperature reading taken by an operator. The diagnostic display takes into account the information of: location; product type; process type; and temperature reading; in selecting a set of pre-determined diagnostic messages for display. A user can enter into the reader device a5 corrective action taken in response to the diagnostic display, which is stored in the reader device, and can be downloaded along with other information via the docking station into the monitoring system computer.

In the example shown, a key pad 3400 is allocated via a corresponding icon o 3401 to indicate that the operator has decided to cook a product immediately, after having seen the diagnostic display 'use in 24 hours'. Referring to Fig. 35 herein, a further embodiment of the first temperature sampling device of Fig 3. is shown, which has all of the elements previously described with reference to Fig. 3. herein, with the exception of a modified antenna configuration.

In the modified antenna configuration, first and second antenna coils 3500, 3501 respectively are positioned having their main plains transverse to each other, and in a best mode orthogonal to each other. Since the antenna coils may have a directional responsively, but providing a plurality of antenna coils in different orientations in the temperature sampling device, a field of reception of the antennas has broader spacial coverage, and can accept a signal from a wider range of positions around the end of the temperature sampling device.

The skilled reader will appreciate that various antennas known antenna elements may be substituted, with various known degrees of directional responsively, ranging from highly directional focused responsively patterns to almost ?? directional responsivities.

By providing first and second antenna coils, transverse to each other in the temperature sampling device, this ensures that wherever the reader device adjacent the temperature sampling device, electo-magnetical coupling can occur between the reader device and the temperature sampling device, without the need to manouever the reader device around the temperature sampling device in order to take a reading from that device.

Referring to Fig. 36 herein, there is illustrated schematically usage of a temperature sampling device and a hand held reader device according to yet a further specific embodiment of the present invention, in which a fourth temperature sampling device 3600 is provided with a plurality of antenna devices 3601 , 3602 which are positioned such that they have responsivity fields which are capable with an antenna of the reader device when the reader is positioned anyway adjacent and around the temperature sampling device, the plurality of antennas 3601 , 3602 may comprise directional antennas having directional reception fields which are transverse and/or orthogonal to each other.

Claims

Claims: 1. A temperature sampling device for monitoring a temperature of a substance, said sampling device comprising:

5 a sealed casing; at least one temperature measuring sensor capable of producing a temperature signal; 0 a wireless transmitter device casing capable of being energized by a radio frequency transmission, and capable of sending a wireless digital temperature signal.

2. The temperature sampling device as claimed in claim 1 , comprising5 an elongate probe member comprising said at least one temperature sensor.

3. The temperature sampling device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims comprising a plurality of temperature sensors distributed along a length of an elongate probe member, for sampling temperature at a plurality of o positions along said elongate probe.

4. The temperature sampling device as claimed in claim 2 or 3, wherein a said temperature measuring sensor is mounted at a first end of an elongate probe member, such that when said elongate probe member is inserted5 into a substance, said temperature measurement sensor is positioned within said substance.

5. The temperature sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein said sealed casing is shaped in the form of a handle, such that a o person can urge said elongate probe member into a substance by pushing said handle towards said substance.

6. The temperature sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein said temperature measuring sensor comprises a digital sensor.

7. The temperature sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein said elongate probe member comprises a hollow tubular member.

8. The temperature sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein said temperature measuring sensor comprises a digital sensor; and 0 digital signals representing temperature are sent along said probe between said temperature measurement sensor, and a controller device located within said sealed casing.

9. The temperature sampling device as claimed in any one of claims5 2 to 8, comprising an electronic controller circuit capable of storing a unique identification code for identifying said temperature sampling device.

10. The temperature sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein said casing comprises first and second casing moldings, which are 0 connected together to form a seal capable of withstanding a sterilization process for sterilizing said casing.

11. The temperature sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein said casing comprises first and second casing moldings, which are 5 sonically welded together.

12. The temperature sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein said a wireless transmitter device comprises at least one antenna device capable of coupling with a transmitter device positioned adjacent to said o temperature sampling device.

13. The temperature sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11 , further comprising: a plurality of directional antenna devices, arranged with their respective fields of reception transverse to each other, for coupling with an electromagnetic field of a reader device positioned to adjacent to said temperature sampling device.

14. A reader device for reading data from a plurality of temperature reading devices, said reader device comprising: a hand holdable casing; a visual display device capable of displaying a display interface; a control device for controlling the operation of said reader; and a wireless transmitter/receiver for communicating with said at least one temperature reading device.

15. The reader device as claimed in claim 14, comprising a wireless power transmitter capable of transmitting a wireless power signal.

16. The reader device as claimed in claim 14, wherein said casing is shaped to fit into a docking station, for download of data stored in said reader device.

17. The reader device as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 16, further comprising a bar code reader.

18. The reader device as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 17, capable of sending program instructions over a wireless communications link, for programming a temperature reader device,

19. The reader device as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 18, further comprising a wireless data port for sending and receiving data to a docking station, for download and/or upload of data to and from said reader device.

20. The reader device as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 19, wherein said visual display device is operable to display menus for functions selected from the set: identifying a user of the reader device; identifying a location of a temperature reader device; identifying a product, subject of a monitoring operation; identifying a batch number of a product subject of a monitoring operation; reading a temperature of a product; presenting diagnostic information concerning a product.

21. A temperature monitoring system comprising: at least one temperature monitoring device; and at least one reader device capable of reading a temperature data from said at least one temperature monitoring device.

22. The system as claimed in claim 21 , wherein said temperature monitoring device communicates with said reader device via a wireless communications link.

5 23. The system as claimed in claim 21 or 22, further comprising a remote server device, said remote server device capable of receiving diagnostic data from said controller device over a communications network.

24. A method of initializing a temperature sampling device, using ao hand held reader device, wherein said reader device and said temperature sampling device are adapted for communication with each other via a wireless link, said method comprising: allocating data describing a product type of a product to be monitored by5 said temperature sampling device; allocating a location data to said temperature sampling device, describing a location of said sampling device.

o 25. The method as claimed in claim 24, further comprising: allocating an operator identification data to said reader device, for identifying an operator of said reader device. 5 26. A temperature sampling device for monitoring temperature of a substance, said sampling device comprising: a sealed casing;

0 a detector capable of sensing a received signal containing a temperature data; and a wireless transmitter device positioned within said sealed casing, said transmitter device capable of sending a wireless signal/specifying said temperature.

27. The temperature sampling device as claimed in claim 26, wherein said sealed casing is shaped in the form of a handle, such that a person can point said sampling device member in a direction from which said signal is received from.

28. The temperature sampling device as claimed in claim 24 or 25, comprising an electronic circuit capable of storing a unique identification code for identifying said temperature sampling device.

29. The temperature sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 28 wherein casing comprises said first and second casing moldings, which are connected together to form a seal capable of withstanding a sterilization process for sterilizing said casing.

30. The temperature sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 29, further comprising a light emitting device, for illuminating a field of view, from which a temperature signal is to be received.

31. The temperature sampling device as claimed in claim 30, wherein said light emitting device comprises a laser.

32. The temperature sampling device as claimed in claim 30, wherein said light emitting source comprises a light emitting diode (L.E.D).

33. The temperature sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 32, comprising a directional antenna coil for coupling electromagnetically with a reader device.

34. The temperature sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 33, comprising a plurality of directional antennas, positioned with their fields of response arranged to transverse to each other, for coupling with an electromagnetic field of a reader device placed adjacent to said plurality of antennas.

35. A method of temperature monitoring a product, said method comprising: placing a temperature sensor in an immediate vicinity of said product, wherein said temperature sensor is capable of being read over a wireless link; and receiving a wireless temperature signal from said sensor, said wireless temperature signal representing a temperature of said product determined by said sensor.

36. The method as claimed in claim 35, comprising: activating said sensor by transmission of a wireless power signal for powering said sensor.

37. The method as claimed in claim 35 or 36, further comprising: illuminating said sensor with a light beam.

38. The method as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 37, further comprising: receiving a unique identification signal from said sensor, said unique identification signal uniquely identifying said sensor device.

39. The method as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 38, comprising: inserting a temperature probe into said product, such that a digital temperature data is generated from a position within said product.

40. The method as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 39, comprising: determining a temperature of said product, by means of a digital temperature sensor device inserted into said product, wherein said digital temperature sensor is contained within a needle inserted into said product.