Smart Temperature Probe
A slim, magnetic temperature sensor that works with any induction cookware. It attaches to the underside of your pan to give precise, real-time heat feedback—no need for special pots. Designed to minimize clutter and integrate seamlessly with Ztove’s smart cooktop, it enhances precision while keeping your cooking natural and intuitive.
Year
2025
The process
Background
This project was part of my master's thesis, carried out in collaboration with Ztove—a Danish company known for its innovative induction cooktops. These stoves offer precise, automated temperature control, but only when used with Ztove’s own proprietary cookware. This project explores how to unlock those smart features for people using their existing, standard pots and pans.
Exploration & Ideation
I started by observing people cooking in their own kitchens and talking with them about their routines. It became clear that they often rely on familiar tools and their senses—smell, sound, and touch—to guide them. Early sketches focused on how a smart device could fit into these routines without demanding constant attention or taking up extra space.
Prototyping
Based on user insights, I developed a magnetic temperature probe that attaches to the bottom of any pot or pan. This allows users to keep their favorite cookware while still benefiting from the smart stove’s features. I built several versions to test different shapes, sizes, and ways of attaching it to cooking tools.
Testing the prototype
I tested the prototype with home cooks and got valuable feedback. Users liked that the probe was small and didn't get in the way while cooking. They preferred when it worked quietly in the background, only giving a signal when something needed attention—like when a sauce reached the right temperature.
Making a 3D CAD model
To refine the design, I created a detailed 3D model of the prototype. This helped visualize how the probe would look and function in real kitchen environments. It also helped communicate the concept clearly to collaborators and potential users.
The next step is to integrate this probe more closely with Ztove’s system, ensuring it's easy to use and reliable. There's also potential to explore other smart kitchen tools that support natural cooking behavior—making sure that technology helps, without taking over.