Image recognition method for frost sensing applications

Abstract

Frost formation in the heat exchangers of refrigeration systems is a well-documented phenomenon. This frost accumulation creates a thermally insulating barrier that can restrict, or even block, the airflow between fins, resulting in decreased efficiency and degradation of the food products. Several methods of frost detection and defrosting have been developed, although there is not an efficient mainstream method to measure and control frost formation. In previous works, the results of a small low-cost resistive sensor for frost detection were shown to be promising. This paper extends that research using computer vision to compare the results of this sensor with the frost formed on the heat exchanger, allowing for a better study of the sensor. This method allowed to trace and plot a frost formation curve of the sensor detected values.

Keywords

• Computer vision
• Defrosting
• Frost formation
• Frost sensing
• Refrigeration