Thin-film temperature sensors with grid-type circuits for temperature distribution measurements

Abstract

Measuring the temperature of satellites is crucial for thermal control. Efficient heat control is possible when the location of the heat source can be quickly identified and the heat transfer area can be measured. Grid-type thin-film temperature sensors have been proposed for this purpose. Grid-type thin-film temperature sensors use electrohydrodynamic (EHD) inkjet printing technology, a next-generation printing technology. Sensors with high sensing resolution can be manufactured using these technologies. However, the EHD inkjet printing technology is sensitive to printing conditions, and determining the optimal conditions is crucial. Therefore, we produce inks for application in EHD inkjet printing technology and conduct experiments to validate their characteristics. In addition, we determine the optimal conditions for printing and manufacturing grid-type thin-film temperature sensors. The heating element is placed at an arbitrary location and the location of heat generation is detected using the manufactured temperature sensors. We have obtained visualization data showing the heat distribution with time. As a result, the production of a grid-type thin film temperature sensor using the printing process was confirmed. This temperature sensor was able to track the heat source and check the distribution process through which heat is transferred. Therefore, it can be expected to be used in fields that require temperature monitoring.