TEMPERATURE FUNCTION GENERATOR FOR STUDY OF THE COLD-HARDINESS OF INSECTS

Cold hardiness of insects can only be assessed by submitting specimens to a perfectly linear decrease in temperature. This paper describes a system that meets this requirement and offers additional flexibility. The system is built around water cooled Peltier effect modules. The e lectronic control unit can operate as a stand alone unit or under the control of a micro-computer. This paper presents a description of the mechanical and electronic components. Operating and calibrating proced ures are also discussed. The accuracy of the system has been assessed. For water cooling temperatures between 12 and 18 degrees C and Peltie r modules temperature ranging from -40 to +10 degrees C, the system co ntrols the temperature within +/-0.2 degrees C. An example is also pre sented to illustrate the application of the system in research.