Patent ID: 11313739

Abstract:
This invention relates to a method and apparatus for automated measurement of the temperatures of samples on a production line without any human intervention. In one aspect the apparatus has a conveyance system; and a temperature measurement unit having: a first member and a second member which are movable relative to each other between at least a first position in which the first and second members cooperate to form an internal space which is substantially internally reflective of radiofrequency radiation and a second position in which the object can be introduced into said internal space; and a radiometer arranged so that it is coupled to said internal space, wherein the conveyance system is arranged to convey the object to a measurement position in said internal space whilst the first and second members are in the second position, for a measurement of the radiation emitted from the object to be performed by the radiometer when the first and second members are in the first position and to convey the object away from said measurement position once the measurement has been performed and said first and second members have returned to the second position. The apparatus allows for recording and storing of measured temperature information. Embodiments of the invention provide for auto-calibration of the apparatus and automated testing and rejection of samples which do not meet pre-defined criteria.