Abstract: A device and method for monitoring the condition of a thermocouple. In a preferred embodiment the device comprises a pair of thermocouples, each thermocouple comprising first and second thermoelement wires, and a diagnostic element selectively electrically coupled at a junction with one of the thermoelements. In a preferred embodiment, the diagnostic element is selected such that it is more stable at the expected operating temperature range of the thermocouple than the thermoelement wires themselves are. The diagnostic element can be switched into electrical connection with any of the thermoelements forming the thermocouples to thereby define one or more loops. An initial loop resistance is measured and recorded around each of the thermoelement/diagnostic element loops. This initial resistance is stored in a calibration matrix as a reference value. The initial loop resistance may be taken as part of a calibration process or during initial operation of the thermocouple.

Abstract: A self-verifying temperature sensor and method for measuring and verifying the true thermodynamic temperature of a system. The sensor is constructed of various combinations of the following temperature-dependent elements: thermoelements, resistive elements, capacitive elements and other inductive elements. In the preferred embodiment, the sensor is constructed of resistive element connected between four thermoelement wires. A fifth thermoelement wire is connected to the resistive element. The sensor produces a data signature from various voltage, resistance, inductance, and capacitance measurements. Measurement electronics collect and condition the data signature. A computer analyzes the data signature and provides the system operator with a verified sensor temperature, thus, allowing the system operator to recognize and account for drift or decalibration of the sensor.

Abstract: A self-verifying temperature sensor and method for measuring and verifying the true thermodynamic temperature of a system. The sensor is constructed of various combinations of the following temperature-dependent elements: thermoelements, resistive elements, capacitive elements and other inductive elements. In the preferred embodiment, the sensor is constructed of resistive element connected between four thermoelement wires. A fifth thermoelement wire is connected to the resistive element. The sensor produces a data signature from various voltage, resistance, inductance, and capacitance measurements. Measurement electronics collect and condition the data signature. A computer analyzes the data signature and provides the system operator with a verified sensor temperature, thus, allowing the system operator to recognize and account for drift or decalibration of the sensor.