Introductory Chapter: Temperature Sensing and Advanced Applications

1. Introduction

Temperature measurements are vital to our life and various activities. Temperature sensors are devices that measure the target temperature and convert it into an electrical signal. Many temperature sensors and measurement technologies have been developed and provided in industry and laboratories, including temperature probesused for immersion temperature measurement in liquids, air, gas, or wells in solid material, and surface sensors such as fast-response thermocouples mounted in a polyimide carrier for easily measuring surface temperatures or heat flux. Fiber optic monitors and fiber optic sensors have been designed to work more reliably than traditional sensors due to their resistance to outside influence such as microwaves, electromagnetic interference, and radio frequency interference. There are also non-contact temperature measurement solutions for remote measurement or human body temperature measurement. Recently, the smart temperature sensing has greatly advanced the applications such as pandemic mitigation, point-of-care healthcare, and harsh environment monitoring [1, 2].

There are many different types of temperature sensors, each with its own advantages and disadvantages [3, 4]. Some of the most common types of temperature sensors include:

• Thermocouples: Thermocouples are the most common type of temperature sensor. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to use. However, they are not very accurate and can be affected by environmental factors such as humidity.

• Resistance temperature detectors (RTDs): RTDs are more accurate than thermocouples, but they are also more expensive. RTDs are typically made of platinum or nickel, and their resistance changes with temperature.

• Semiconductor temperature sensors: Semiconductor temperature sensors are the most accurate type of temperature sensor. They are also very small and can be integrated into electronic devices. However, semiconductor temperature sensors are also the most expensive type of temperature sensor.

The advanced applications of temperature sensing are constantly evolving. Some of the most exciting new applications include:

• Wearable temperature sensors: Wearable temperature sensors are being used to monitor the health of patients and athletes. These sensors can be used to track body temperature, heart rate, and other vital signs.

• Surface temperature sensors: These are used to measure the temperature of any flat, curved, or moving surface, including those of self-adhesive, cement-on, bolt-on, magnetic mount, or handheld surface temperature sensors.

• Temperature wire sensors: These simple, temperature-sensing element and extension wire combinations have a wide array of applications and are available in thermocouple, RTD, and thermistor technologies.

• Temperature probes: These are used for immersion temperature measurement in liquid, air, gas, or wells in solid material, including probe styles in thermocouple, RTD, thermistor, and IC technologies.

• Fiber optic temperature measurement: Fiber optic monitors and fiber optic sensors are designed to work more reliably than traditional sensors due to their resistance to outside influence such as microwaves, electromagnetic interference, and radio frequency interference.

• Hybrid temperature sensors: These perform high accuracy non-invasive hybrid temperature measurement for various fluids that eliminate the costly process downtime and require no welding or drilling.

• Internet of Things (IoT) temperature sensors: IoT temperature sensors are being used to monitor the temperature of buildings, machines, and other assets. These sensors can be used to detect problems early on and prevent damage.

• Smart agriculture: Smart agriculture is using temperature sensors to monitor the temperature of soil, water, and crops. This information can be used to optimize crop yields and reduce water usage.

• Climate change research: Temperature sensors are being used to monitor the Earth’s climate. This information is being used to study the effects of climate change and to develop solutions to mitigate its effects.

Temperature sensing is a versatile technology with a wide range of applications. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more advanced applications in the future. Below are some additional examples of advanced applications of temperature sensing:

• In the medical field, temperature sensors are used to monitor the temperature of patients in critical care units. This information can be used to detect infections and other medical problems early on.

• In the food industry, temperature sensors are used to monitor the temperature of food during processing and storage. This information can be used to ensure that food is safe to eat.

• In the manufacturing industry, temperature sensors are used to monitor the temperature of machinery. This information can be used to prevent equipment failure and to improve product quality.

Temperature sensors are important devices that are used in a wide variety of applications. Recent advances in temperature sensor technology have led to the development of new types of temperature sensors with improved sensitivity, accuracy, and range. Temperature sensing is a powerful tool that can be used to improve our lives in many ways. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative applications in the future.