U.S. patent application number 10/100070 was filed with the patent office on 2002-09-19 for ear type clinical thermometer.
Invention is credited to Konno, Tomoyasu.
Application Number | 20020131473 10/100070 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27529420 |
Filed Date | 2002-09-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020131473 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Konno, Tomoyasu |
September 19, 2002 |
Ear type clinical thermometer
Abstract
An ear type thermometer for metering a body temperature includes
a thermometer body, and a probe mounted in the thermometer body and
adapted to be inserted into an ear. The probe is provided with a
probe cover. A screwing member is provide for fixing the probe
cover on the probe.
Inventors: |
Konno, Tomoyasu; (Fuji-shi,
JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Platon N. Mandros, Esquire
BURNS, DOANE, SWECKER & MATHIS, L.L.P.
P.O. Box 1404
Alexandrea
VA
22313-1404
US
|
Family ID: |
27529420 |
Appl. No.: |
10/100070 |
Filed: |
March 19, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10100070 |
Mar 19, 2002 |
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09482033 |
Jan 13, 2000 |
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6386757 |
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09482033 |
Jan 13, 2000 |
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PCT/JP98/03128 |
Jul 13, 1998 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
374/121 ;
374/130; 374/E1.013; 374/E13.003 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01J 5/08 20130101; G01J
5/0818 20130101; G01J 5/16 20130101; G01J 5/02 20130101; G01J 5/04
20130101; G01J 5/025 20130101; G01J 5/53 20220101; G01K 1/20
20130101; G01J 5/049 20130101; G01J 5/064 20220101; G01J 5/06
20130101; G01J 5/021 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
374/121 ;
374/130 |
International
Class: |
G01J 005/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 16, 1997 |
JP |
9-207088 |
Jul 16, 1997 |
JP |
9-207089 |
Jul 16, 1997 |
JP |
9-207090 |
Oct 20, 1997 |
JP |
9-306655 |
Oct 21, 1997 |
JP |
9-307962 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An ear type thermometer for metering a body temperature,
comprising: a thermometer body; a probe mounted in said thermometer
body and adapted to be inserted into an ear, with a probe cover,
wherein the improvement comprises a screwing member for fixing said
probe cover mounted on said probe.
2. An ear type thermometer for metering a body temperature,
comprising: a thermometer body; a probe mounted in said thermometer
body and adapted to be inserted into an ear, with a probe cover,
wherein the improvement comprises at least one screwing member
having a function to fix said probe cover mounted on said probe and
having different shapes and sizes to be replaced for use.
3. An ear type thermometer for metering a body temperature,
comprising: a thermometer body; a probe mounted in said thermometer
body and adapted to be inserted into an ear, with a probe cover,
wherein the improvement comprises at least one screwing member
having a function to fix said probe cover mounted on said probe and
having different lengths of protrusion of said probe to be replaced
for use.
4. An ear type thermometer according to claim 1, wherein said
screwing member is given a function to regulate the depth of
insertion of said probe into the ear.
5. An ear type thermometer according to claim 4, wherein said
screwing member has a flat end face to come into abutment against
the periphery of a subject portion for regulating the depth of
insertion of said probe into the ear.
6. An ear type thermometer according to claim 1, wherein said probe
is removably mounted on said thermometer body.
7. An ear type thermometer according to claim 6, wherein said
screwing member is given a function to fix said probe with respect
to said thermometer body.
8. An ear type thermometer according to claim 1, wherein said
screwing member is a ring nut to be fastened on said thermometer
body.
9. An ear type thermometer according to claim 1, wherein said
screwing member includes slip stopping means for preventing
slippage at the time of fixing and releasing actions.
10. An ear type thermometer comprising: a probe mounted on a
thermometer body and adapted to be inserted into an ear; and a
thermometric switch mounted on said thermometer body and adapted to
be operated at the time of at least the start or finish of
thermometry, wherein the protrusion direction of said probe from
said thermometer body and the operation direction of said
thermometric switch are substantially aligned with each other.
11. An ear type thermometer according to claim 10, wherein said
thermometric switch is continuously operated to the finish of
thermometry to detect the body temperature.
12. An ear type thermometer according to claim 10, wherein said
thermometric switch is pressed in substantially the same direction
as the protrusion direction of said probe.
13. An ear type thermometer according to claim 10, wherein the
improvement comprises insertion depth regulating means for
regulating the depth of insertion of said probe into the subject
portion.
14. An ear type thermometer comprising a probe mounted on a
thermometer body and adapted to be inserted into an ear, wherein
said thermometer body includes at least one raised portion for
abutting against the vicinity of the ear, into which said probe is
to be inserted, to support said thermometer body.
15. An ear type thermometer according to claim 14, wherein said
raised portion is formed on the face, on which said probe is
mounted, of said thermometer body.
16. An ear type thermometer according to claim 15, wherein said
probe is formed on one longitudinal end side of said thermometer
body whereas said raised portion is formed on the other end
side.
17. An ear type thermometer according to claim 14, wherein said
raised portion has at least one pair of raised portions on the two
sides of a center line extending in the longitudinal direction of
said thermometer body.
18. An ear type thermometer according to claim 14, wherein said
raised portion comes for use into abutment against the vicinity of
the cheekbone of the subject.
19. An ear type thermometer according to claim 14, wherein the
improvement comprises a power switch mounted in a recess, as formed
in the vicinity of said raised portion, for switching the ON/OFF of
the electric power for said thermometer.
20. An ear type thermometer according to claim 14, wherein the
improvement comprises a thermometric switch mounted on said
thermometer body and adapted to be operated at least at the start
or finish of the thermometry, and wherein the operation direction
of said thermometric switch and the protrusion direction of said
raised portion are substantially the same.
21. An ear type thermometer according to claim 14, wherein the
protrusion direction of said raised portion and the protrusion
direction of said probe are substantially the same.
22. An ear type thermometer for metering a body temperature by
detecting the intensity of an infrared ray emitted from the inside
of an ear, comprising: a thermometer body having a sound source
therein for emitting an information sound; a probe mounted on said
thermometer body and adapted to be inserted into the ear; and a
soundproof mechanism for suppressing the transmission of the
information sound, as emitted from said sound source, into the
ear.
23. An ear type thermometer according to claim 22, wherein said
thermometer body includes a casing having a thermometric mechanism
therein, and a probe supporting peripheral member for supporting
said probe, and wherein said soundproof mechanism includes a
clearance for forming a long or complex information sound
transmission passage between said casing and said probe supporting
peripheral member.
24. An ear type thermometer according to claim 22, wherein said
thermometer body includes a casing having a thermometric mechanism
therein, and a probe supporting peripheral member for supporting
said probe, and wherein said soundproof mechanism includes a
clearance between said casing and said probe supporting peripheral
member, and a vibration absorbing member mounted in said
clearance.
25. An ear type thermometer according to claim 22, wherein said
thermometer body includes a casing having a thermometric mechanism
therein, and wherein said soundproof mechanism has said sound
source mounted in the inner face or in its vicinity of the back
side portion of said casing.
26. An ear type thermometer according to claim 22, wherein said
thermometer body includes a casing having a thermometric mechanism
therein, wherein said casing has at its front side portion a window
portion for indicating a body temperature, and a transparent sheet
covering said window, and wherein said soundproof mechanism has
said transparent sheet made thicker than that necessary for keeping
the strength.
27. An ear type thermometer according to claim 22, wherein said
soundproof mechanism can reduce the transmission of the information
sound into the ear, into which said probe is inserted, by 2 dB or
more.
28. An ear type thermometer for metering a body temperature by
detecting the intensity of an infrared ray emitted from the inside
of an ear, comprising a display composed of a plurality of segments
for indicating a symbol mark in such a mode that the number of
segments to be lighted or flashed changes with time.
29. An ear type thermometer for metering a body temperature by
detecting the intensity of an infrared ray emitted from the inside
of an ear, comprising a display composed of a plurality of segments
for indicating a symbol mark in such a mode that the number of
segments to be lighted or flashed increases with time until all the
segments are lighted or flashed.
30. An ear type thermometer according to claim 28, wherein the
improvement comprises a timer for establishing said display mode
while the time is being measured by said timer.
31. An ear type thermometer according to claim 28, wherein the
improvement comprises temperature metering means for metering the
environmental temperature for establishing said display mode while
the environmental temperature or its change is being metered by
said temperature metering means.
32. An ear type thermometer according to claim 31, wherein the
improvement comprises correction means for correcting the metered
value in response to the change in the environmental
temperature.
33. An ear type thermometer according to claim 32, wherein said
correction means reduces the correction substantially to 0 when the
change in the environmental temperature is small.
34. An ear type thermometer according to claim 32, wherein the
correction by said correction means has an upper limit and/or a
lower limit.
35. An ear type thermometer according to claim 28, wherein said
display mode appears during the standby time after the finish of
the thermometry and before a next thermometry becomes possible.
36. An ear type thermometer according to claim 28, wherein said
display-mode appears during the standby time after the finish of
the thermometry and before the vicinity of the portion of said
termometer to contact with said ear is cooled.
37. An ear type thermometer comprising a thermometric portion for
detecting the intensity of an infrared ray depending upon the
temperature in an ear, so that the temperature value in the ear may
be computed by correcting the detected value, as obtained from the
detected signal detected by the thermometric portion, according to
the change in the temperature of the environment in which said
thermometric portion is placed, wherein said correction is
substantially undone when the changing rate of said environmental
temperature is low.
38. An ear type thermometer comprising a thermometric portion for
detecting the intensity of an infrared ray depending upon the
temperature in an ear, so that the temperature value in the ear may
be computed by correcting the detected value, as obtained from the
detected signal detected by the thermometric portion, according to
the change in the temperature of the environment in which said
thermometric portion is placed, wherein the magnitude of said
correction is given an upper limit and/or a lower limit.
39. An ear type thermometer according to claim 37, wherein said
thermometric portion includes an infrared sensor made of thermopile
and a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature in the
vicinity of the cold junctions of said termopile, and wherein said
detected signal is the signals outputted from said infrared sensor
and said temperature sensor.
40. An ear type thermometer according to claim 39, wherein said
environmental temperature is metered on the basis of the signal
outputted from said temperature sensor.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a continuation of Application No. PCT/JP 98/03128,
filed Jul. 13, 1998.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to an ear type clinical
thermometer (or infrared clinical thermometer: hereafter referred
to as an ear type thermometer) for metering a body temperature by
detecting an infrared ray emitted from the inside of an ear.
[0003] In the prior art, as a clinical thermometer (hereafter
referred to as a thermometer) for metering a body temperature in a
medical institution such as a hospital or at home, there has been
proposed the ear type thermometer for metering the body temperature
in terms of the intensity of an infrared ray (heat ray) by
inserting a probe (thermometric portion) into the earhole (external
auditory miatus, ear cannal) and by detecting the infrared ray
radiated from the eardrum (tympnic membrane) and its vicinity.
[0004] This ear type thermometer is highly advantageous in that the
time period required for the thermometry is as short as about 1 to
2 secs., especially when the body temperature of an infant or child
unable to wait for a long time.
[0005] In this ear type thermometer for metering the body
temperatures of a plurality of patients, a probe cover, which is
replaceable and disposable, is mounted to cover the probe, from the
standpoints of health administrations for preventing the
contagion.
[0006] As disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,088,834, the probe cover is
mounted on the probe such that the probe cover is fitted on the
probe or such that a ring-shaped recess, as formed in the inner
face of the probe cover, is fitted on a ring-shaped projection, as
formed on the outer face of the probe, to keep their mounting
state.
[0007] However, this mounting state by this simple fitting relation
has a dispersion in its fitting strength and may be unable to keep
the mounted state stably. In this case, there may arise a
disadvantage that the probe cover is left in the earhole when the
probe covered with the probe cover is removed after the
thermometry.
[0008] Since the probe cover can be easily removed from the probe,
moreover, there arises another disadvantage that the infant may
erroneously remove the probe cover and take it into the mouth.
[0009] Moreover, the probe cover may go out of position from the
probe, although it is not removed from the probe, to cause a drop
in the thermometric accuracy.
[0010] Moreover, the probe having the probe cover mounted thereon
is so tapered toward its distal end as to facilitate the insertion
into the earhole (ear). As a result, the depth of insertion of the
probe into the earhole depends upon the pushing force so that it is
difficult to be constant. As a result, the reproducibility is
deteriorated to cause a dispersion in the metered value of the body
temperature thereby to drop the thermometric accuracy. In addition
to this defect, the probe may be inserted excessively deeply into
the earhole to hurt the deep portion of the ear.
[0011] Moreover, the thermometric conditions such as the direction
and depth of insertion of the probe into the earhole (ear) may
exert serious influences upon the metered value, and the deviation
of the probe during the thermometry may cause a serious error in
the metered value. Upon the thermometry, for example, the operation
of the thermometric switch moves the hand holding the thermometer
body, and the probe may deflect in the earhole. Moreover, the
thermometer body cannot be stably held with respect to the face but
may go out of position. In this case, the dispersion of the metered
value may occur to deteriorate the reproducibility thereby to
deteriorate the reliability of the ear type thermometer.
[0012] In this ear type thermometer, there is mounted a buzzer for
informing of the finish of the thermometry of the body
temperature.
[0013] This buzzer sound has to be set to such a large level as to
inform the subject sufficiently. At the finish of the thermometry,
however, the buzzer sound may be transmitted to the earhole of the
subject through the probe or its periphery, because the probe is
inserted in the earhole of the subject (such as the infant or
child), thus raising a problem that the subject is
discomforted.
[0014] If the volume of the buzzer sound is reduced to avoid this
uncomfortableness of the subject, the buzzer sound becomes
difficult to hear by the operator, and the finish of thermometry
cannot be grasped according to the environment.
[0015] In this ear type thermometer, moreover, the time period
required for metering the temperature actually is as short as about
1 to 2 secs., but an additional standby time is required for the
thermometry from a thermometry to a next thermometry. Moreover, an
indication is made in a display so as to inform the standby time
and the end of the standby time. This indication is exemplified by
letters "WAIT" to be flashed during the standby time or a mark to
be flashed at the end of the standby time (as disclosed in
Unexamined Published Japanese Patent Nos. 8-145800 and
2-35322).
[0016] However, this indication can inform merely the standby or
its end but not the lapse of time easily. Thus, it is unknown when
the standby time ends or how long the time is left. This raises a
problem that the subject is discomforted or hurt by the
standby.
[0017] When the body temperature of a infant or child is to be
metered, moreover, it may be unable to well-behaved for the standby
time thereby to trouble the thermometry.
[0018] Moreover, the thermometric portion of this ear type
thermometer is constructed to include an infrared sensor composed
of thermopile having cold junctions and hot junctions, and a
temperature sensor for detecting the temperature (= the
environmental temperature) at the cold junctions of the thermopile,
so that the body temperature is metered on the basis of the signals
outputted from the infrared sensor and the temperature sensor.
[0019] In this case, it is ideal to equalize the thermal
responsibilities of the individual cold junctions and the
temperature'sensor, but this equalization is practically
impossible. This raises a problem that an error is caused in the
metered body temperature to deteriorate the thermometric accuracy.
Especially in transient situations where the environmental
temperature (the temperature of the atmosphere in which the
thermometer is placed) is fluctuating so that the temperature of
the infrared sensor itself is changing, the temperature of the
temperature sensor and the temperature of the cold junctions become
different to make an error in the metered body temperature
value.
[0020] Here, it is conceivable to correct the temperature
considering the foregoing defects. However, the thermometry is
easily influenced by the noises and difficult to stabilize.
[0021] It is, therefore, an object of the invention to provide an
ear type thermometer which is highly usable and/or which can meter
the body temperature highly accurately.
[0022] More specifically, an object of the invention is to provide
an ear type thermometer which can stabilize the mounting of the
probe cover on the probe while improving the accuracy of
thermometry, which can meter the body temperature highly accurately
without being influenced by the action or position at the
thermometry, which can suppress the uncomfortableness of a subject
without deteriorating the function to inform the information sound
emitted from a sound source, which can easily know the lapse of
time during a standby time, and/or which can improve the
thermometric accuracy with being hardly influenced by the
noises.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0023] According to the present invention, there is provided an ear
type thermometer for metering a body temperature, comprising: a
thermometer body; a probe mounted in the thermometer body and
adapted to be inserted into an ear, with a probe cover, wherein the
improvement comprises a screwing member for fixing the probe cover
mounted on the probe.
[0024] According to the present invention, there is further
provided an ear type thermometer for metering a body temperature,
comprising: a thermometer body; a probe mounted in the thermometer
body and adapted to be inserted into an ear, with a probe cover,
wherein the improvement comprises at least one screwing member
having a function to fix the probe cover mounted on the probe and
having different shapes and sizes to be replaced for use.
[0025] According to the present invention, there is further
provided an ear type thermometer for metering a body temperature,
comprising: a thermometer body; a probe mounted in the thermometer
body and adapted to be inserted into an ear, with a probe cover,
wherein the improvement comprises at least one screwing member
having a function to fix the probe cover mounted on the probe and
having different lengths of protrusion of the probe to be replaced
for use.
[0026] According to the present invention, there is further
provided an ear type thermometer comprising: a probe mounted on a
thermometer body and adapted to be inserted into an ear; and a
thermometric switch mounted on the thermometer body and adapted to
be operated at the time of at least the start or finish of
thermometry, wherein the protrusion direction of the probe from the
thermometer body and the operation direction of the thermometric
switch are substantially aligned with each other.
[0027] According to the present invention, there is still further
provided an ear type thermometer comprising a probe mounted on a
thermometer body and adapted to be inserted into an ear, wherein
the thermometer body includes at least one raised portion for
abutting against the vicinity of the ear, into which the probe is
to be inserted, to support the thermometer body.
[0028] According to the present invention, there is still further
provided an ear type thermometer for metering a body temperature by
detecting the intensity of an infrared ray emitted from the inside
of an ear, comprising: a thermometer body having a sound source
therein for emitting an information sound; a probe mounted on the
thermometer body and adapted to be inserted into the ear; and a
soundproof mechanism for suppressing the transmission of the
information sound, as emitted from the sound source, into the
ear.
[0029] According to the present invention, there is further
provided an ear type thermometer for metering a body temperature by
detecting the intensity of an infrared ray emitted from the inside
of an ear, comprising a display composed of a plurality of segments
for indicating a symbol mark in such a mode that the number of
segments to be lighted or flashed changes with time.
[0030] According to the present invention, there is further
provided an ear type thermometer for metering a body temperature by
detecting the intensity of an infrared ray emitted from the inside
of an ear, comprising a display composed of a plurality of segments
for indicating a symbol mark in such a mode that the number of
segments to be lighted or flashed increases with time until all the
segments are lighted or flashed.
[0031] According to the present invention, there is still further
provided an ear type thermometer comprising a thermometric portion
for detecting the intensity of an infrared ray depending upon the
temperature in an ear, so that the temperature value in the ear may
be computed by correcting the detected value, as obtained from the
detected signal detected by the thermometric portion, according to
the change in the temperature of the environment in which the
thermometric portion is placed, wherein the correction is
substantially undone when the changing rate of the environmental
temperature is low.
[0032] According to the present invention, there is still further
provided an ear type thermometer comprising a thermometric portion
for detecting the intensity of an infrared ray depending upon the
temperature in an ear, so that the temperature value in the ear may
be computed by correcting the detected value, as obtained from the
detected signal detected by the thermometric portion, according to
the change in the temperature of the environment in which the
thermometric portion is placed, wherein the magnitude of the
correction is given an upper limit and/or a lower limit.
[0033] Further features of the invention will be become apparent
from the following description and are also described in the
appended CLAIMS.
[0034] Additional objects and advantages of the invention will be
set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be
obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the
invention. The objects and advantages of the invention may be
realized and obtained by means of the instrumentalities and
combinations particularly pointed out hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
[0035] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitute a part of the specification, illustrate presently
preferred embodiments of the invention, and together with the
general description given above and the detailed description of the
preferred embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles
of the invention.
[0036] FIG. 1 is a front view showing a thermometer of the
invention;
[0037] FIG. 2 is a side view showing a thermometer of the
invention;
[0038] FIG. 3 is a longitudinal section showing an example of the
construction of a probe cover to be used in the thermometer of the
invention;
[0039] FIG. 4 is a section taken along line A-A' of FIG. 1 and
showing a state in which the probe cover is mounted;
[0040] FIG. 5 is a longitudinal section showing a state in which a
ring nut different from that shown in FIG. 4 is mounted;
[0041] FIG. 6 is a longitudinal section showing the vicinity of a
probe according to another embodiment of the thermometer of the
invention;
[0042] FIG. 7 is a top plan view showing a thermometer of the
invention;
[0043] FIG. 8 is a rear view of the thermometer of the
invention;
[0044] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a using example of the
thermometer of the invention;
[0045] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a using example of the
thermometer of the invention;
[0046] FIG. 11 is a section taken along line B-B' of FIG. 1;
[0047] FIG. 12 is a section taken along line A-A' of FIG. 1 and
showing a state in which the probe cover is mounted on the probe in
the thermometer of the invention and in which an O-ring is clamped
midway of a beep sound (an information sound) transmitting
passage;
[0048] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing an example of the
construction of a temperature metering portion in the thermometer
of the invention;
[0049] FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a construction of the
circuit of the thermometer of the invention;
[0050] FIG. 15 is a partially sectional view showing a construction
of an experimental device for measuring a sound-level;
[0051] FIG. 16 is a side view showing a construction of a
thermometer of a control;
[0052] FIG. 17 is a longitudinal section showing the construction
of the thermometer of the control;
[0053] FIGS. 18A-18C are views showing one example of a symbol mark
to be indicated in the display;
[0054] FIG. 19 is a graph plotting relations between changes in the
environmental temperature with time and the metered
temperatures;
[0055] FIG. 20 is a graph plotting relations between the
temperature changing ratios in the temperature sensor and the
errors of the metered temperatures;
[0056] FIG. 21 a diagram illustrating relations between the
temperature error and the correction;
[0057] FIG. 22 is a flow chart showing a control procedure of
control means;
[0058] FIG. 23 is a flow chart showing the control procedure of the
control means;
[0059] FIG. 24 is a flow chart showing the control procedure of the
control means;
[0060] FIG. 25 is a flow chart showing the control procedure of the
control means; and
[0061] FIG. 26 is a flow chart showing a control procedure of
control means in another embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0062] A thermometer of the invention will be described in detail
in connection with its embodiments with reference to the
accompanying drawings.
[0063] FIGS. 1 and 2 are front and side views showing a thermometer
of the invention, respectively; FIG. 3 is a longitudinal section
showing an example of the construction of a probe cover to be
mounted on the thermometer of the invention; and FIG. 4 is a
section taken along line A-A' of FIG. 1 and showing a state in
which the probe cover is mounted on a probe in the thermometer of
the invention. For conveniences of description: the upper sides of
FIGS. 1 and 2 will be termed as the "upper portion", and the lower
sides will be termed as the "lower portion"; and the upper sides of
FIGS. 3 and 4 will be termed as the "distal end", and the lower
sides will be termed as the "proximal end."
[0064] As shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 4, a thermometer 1 of the
invention is of the ear type for detecting a body temperature by
metering the intensity of an infrared ray issued from the eardrum
(tympanic membrane) and its vicinity. The thermometer 1 is
constructed to comprise: a thermometer body 2 having a casing 21; a
power switch 3 and a display 5 mounted on the front face of the
thermometer body 2; and a thermometric switch 4 mounted on the
upper portion of the back face of the thermometer body 2.
[0065] A probe 6 is removably mounted on the front side of the
upper portion of the thermometer body 2. As shown in FIG. 4, a
support body 7 includes a radially larger portion 71 and a radially
smaller portion 72, as located on the distal end side of the
radially larger portion 71. External threads 73 and 74 are formed
in the outer circumferences of the radially larger and smaller
portions 71 and 72, respectively. The support base 7 is preferably
constructed of a block made of a highly thermally conductive metal
such as aluminum or copper or the like.
[0066] At the proximal end of the tubular probe 6, on the other
hand, there is formed a priximal portion 61 which is in abutment
against the distal end face of the radially larger portion 71. In
the inner face of the proximal end side of the probe 6, there is
formed an internal thread 62 which is in screwed engagement with
the external thread 74. By this screwed engagement between the
external thread 74 and the internal thread 62, the probe 6 is
supported and fixed on the support base 7. On the other hand, this
support base 7 is fixed on the (not-shown) circuit board, which is
fixed in the casing 21.
[0067] Moreover, the probe 6 is so gradually radially reduced in
its external diameter toward its distal end that its distal end
outer circumference (edge) 63 is rounded considering safety when
the probe 6 is inserted into the earhole.
[0068] Here, the material for the probe 6 can be exemplified by a
resin material such as an ABS resin or a styrol resin. Moreover, an
additive such as an antibacterial agent or reinforcing glass can
also be contained in the material of the probe 6.
[0069] At the central portion of the support base 7, there is
erected a light guide (waveguide) 8 for guiding the infrared ray
(heat ray), as introduced from its distal end, to an infrared
sensor (temperature detecting sensor) 10. The light guide 8 is
preferably made of a highly thermally conductive metal such as
copper or the like and plated on its inner face with gold.
[0070] Moreover, the light guide 8 is covered at its distal end
opening with a protective sheet 81. This sheet 81 prevents dust or
the like from invading the inside of the light guide 8. Here, the
protective sheet 81 has a transmission to an infrared ray, and its
material can be exemplified by a resin material similar to that of
a later-described probe cover 11. The protective sheet 81 can be
made as thick as about 0.03 to 0.08 mm.
[0071] Onto the radially larger portion 71 of the support base 7,
there is screwed a ring nut (fixing member) 9. Specifically, the
ring nut 9 is internally threaded at 91 in the inner face of its
proximal end so that it is supported and fixed on the support base
7 by screwing the internal thread 91 on the external thread 73 of
the radially larger portion 71.
[0072] This ring nut 9 is so tapered at 92 that its external
diameter is gradually reduced in its external diameter from the
vicinity of the distal end of the internal thread 91 toward its
distal end. In the inner face of the tapered portion 92, there is
formed an engaging portion 93 which is in engagement with the trunk
portion 12 of the probe cover 11. Moreover, the material for the
ring nut 9 can be exemplified by a resin material such as an ABS
resin or a styrol resin. Moreover, an additive such as an
antibacterial agent or reinforcing glass can also be contained in
the material of the ring nut 9.
[0073] The probe 6 is covered with the probe cover 11, and the ring
nut 9 is screwed by turning in a predetermined direction. Then, the
trunk portion 12 of the probe cover 11 is clamped between a sloped
portion 64 of the probe 6 and the engaging portion 93 of the ring
nut 9 so that the probe cover 11 is reliably fixed on the probe
6.
[0074] Around the open end (proximal end) of the probe cover 11 of
this embodiment, there may be formed a base portion or the like
having a flange, which may be clamped between the probe 6 and the
ring nut 9 to fix the probe cover 11.
[0075] During the body thermometry, therefore, the probe cover 11
is not displaced with respect to the probe 6 so that a high
thermometry can be kept. Moreover, the probe cover 11 will not
easily come out from the probe 6. When the probe 6 is pulled out of
the earhole after the thermometry, for example, it is possible to
prevent without fail the disadvantage, as might otherwise be
caused, that only the probe cover 11 is left in the earhole.
[0076] When the probe cover 11 is to be removed from the probe 6,
on the other hand, the ring nut 9 has to be turned and released
from the radially larger portion 71 by a considerable force. This
can further prevent the disadvantage that an infant might otherwise
erroneously remove the probe cover 11 and take it into the
mouth.
[0077] A distal end face 94 of the ring nut 9 is formed into a
generally flat face. When the probe 6 is inserted into the earhole,
the distal end face 94 comes into abutment against the vicinity of
the entrance of the earhole to regulate the insertion of the probe
6 to a predetermined depth. As a result, the thermometry can always
be performed under proper conditions to prevent the metering error,
as might otherwise be caused by the fluctuations in the depth of
insertion into the earhole, and to eliminate the disadvantage that
the probe 6 might otherwise go deeply into the earhole to hurt the
deep portion of the ear.
[0078] In the outer circumference of the tapered portion 92 of the
ring nut 9, on the other hand, there are formed a plurality of
grooves (or slide stopping means) 95 which are arranged at a
predetermined circumferential pitch to exhibit an effect to prevent
the slide in a direction to turn and fasten or loosen the ring nut
9.
[0079] Here, the slide stopping means should not be limited to the
recesses such as the grooves 95 but may be exemplified by ridges
for similar functions or may have a highly frictional material such
as rubber arranged.
[0080] The infrared sensor 10 is equipped with a thermopile for
detecting the intensity of the infrared ray to meter the body
temperature.
[0081] A proper example of the construction of the probe cover 11
to be mounted on the probe 6 will be described with reference to
FIG. 3.
[0082] The probe cover 11 is shaped to have an opened proximal end
and a closed distal end. This probe cover 11 is composed of the
cylindrical trunk portion 12, a film 14 formed at the distal end
portion of the trunk portion 12 and capable of transmitting an
infrared ray, and a ring-shaped lip portion 15 formed at the outer
circumferential portion of the film 14 and extending to the distal
side from the film 14.
[0083] Moreover, the trunk portion 12, the film 14 and the lip
portion 15 are preferred to be integrally formed of a resin
material in relation to the later-described manufacture process.
This resin material can be exemplified by polyolefin such as
polyethylene, polypropylene or a copolymer of ethylene-vinyl
acetate, polyester such as polyethylene terephthalate or
polybutylene terephthalate, or styrol resin.
[0084] The trunk portion 12 is gradually reduced in its external
and internal diameters toward its distal end. The thickness of the
trunk portion 12 is also gradually reduced toward the distal
end.
[0085] The thickness of the film 14 should not be especially
limited but is preferably 0.01 to 0.10 mm, more preferably 0.05 to
0.07 mm. With an excessive thinness, the film 14 may become short
of strength and liable to break depending upon its material. With
an excessive thickness, on the other hand, the film 14 may have a
lower transmission to the infrared ray and may obstruct a precise
thermometry of the body temperature.
[0086] In this probe cover 11, with the presence of the lip portion
15, the film 14 can be lowered by a predetermined distance (H) from
the distal end to the proximal end side of the probe cover 11. As a
result, the film 14 can be kept out of contact with the inner face
or its periphery of the earhole, when the probe 6 is inserted
carrying the probe cover 11 into the earhole, or can be kept out of
touch of the finger or the like when the probe cover 11 is mounted
on or demounted from the probe 6, so that its surface can be kept
clean to maintain a higher thermometric accuracy.
[0087] The lip portion 15 is shaped to be fitted in the distal end
portion of the probe 6. Specifically, with the probe cover 11 being
mounted on the probe 6, as shown in FIG. 4, the lip portion 15 is
fitted in the distal end outer circumference 63 of the probe 6. As
a result, when the probe 6 is inserted (for the thermometry) into
the earhole, the distal end portion of the probe cover 11 can be
prevented from going out of position with respect to the probe 6,
and the film 14 is tensed by a predetermined force and prevented
from any wrinkle or slackness so that the lip portion 15
contributes to an improvement in the thermometric accuracy.
[0088] Moreover, the lip portion 15 has a rounded distal end. As a
result, when the probe 6 is inserted into the earhole, the lip
portion 15 neither pains nor the inner wall of the earhole to
retain a high safety.
[0089] If the height H of the lip portion 15 is excessively small,
the aforementioned effect, as could otherwise be obtained by the
lip portion 15, is not sufficiently exhibited. If the height H of
the lip portion 15 is excessively large, the film 14 may become
heterogeneous in its thickness depending upon the remaining
conditions such as its material when the probe cover 11 is molded,
thereby to cause a disadvantage that its thin portion may be
wrinkled or broken.
[0090] It is, therefore, preferable, that the height H of the lip
portion 15 should satisfy a relation of 4.ltoreq.D/H.ltoreq.55,
where letter D designates the diameter of the film 14.
[0091] The process for manufacturing (molding) the probe cover 11
may preferably be exemplified by the following one, although not
especially limited thereto.
[0092] A resin sheet to be molded into the probe cover 11 is
prepared and is heated from the lower portion of FIG. 3 by a heater
so that it is sufficiently softened, and the heater is then taken
out. After this, a sheet push member having a frusto-conical shape
is brought into the resin sheet from the lower portion of FIG. 3,
and a female mold having a shape contouring the outer shape of the
probe cover 11 is brought into contact with the resin sheet from
the upper portion of the resin sheet. The resin sheet is pushed
midway of the female mold by the sheet push member and is evacuated
by a vacuum pump through a thin hole which is formed in advance in
such a portion of the female mold as to correspond to the lip
portion. As a result, the softened resin sheet is pulled into the
female mold to come into close contact with the inside of the
female mold. In this state, the resin sheet is solidified, when
cooled, so that it is molded to have the internal shape of the
female mold. Next, this evacuation is stopped, and the female mold
is moved upward to allow the resin sheet, as molded into the shape
of the probe cover 11, to be taken out. After this, the probe cover
11 is manufactured by cutting (punching) out its proximal end
side.
[0093] According to another method, a resin sheet to be molded into
the probe cover 11 is prepared and is pushed upward from the lower
portion of FIG. 3 and thermally deformed by a mold, which is shaped
into the inner shape of the probe cover 11 and heated to a
temperature to melt or soft the resin sheet. Simultaneously with
this, a similar heated mold having a flat face contouring the film
14 is moved downward from the upper portion of FIG. 3 to clamp the
portion of the film 14 between the two molds so that a desired film
thickness is achieved by adjusting the clamping pressure. After
this, the two molds are removed, and the resin sheet, as molded
into the shape of the probe cover 11, is cooled and solidified.
This probe cover 11 is manufactured by cutting (punching) out its
proximal end side.
[0094] In the actual manufacture of the probe cover 11, it is
preferable that the vertical directions should be inverted from
those of FIG. 3, because the resin sheet will hang down by its own
weight as it is heated.
[0095] Here, it goes without saying that the construction of the
probe cover 11 should not be limited to that shown in FIG. 3.
[0096] On the other hand, the thermometer 1 of the invention can be
used by replacing two or more ring nuts having different shapes and
sizes. FIG. 5 is a longitudinal section showing a state in which a
ring nut having a shape and a height different from those of the
ring nut shown in FIG. 4 is mounted. Specifically, a ring nut 90
shown in FIG. 5 is given a larger height in the tapered portion 92
and a smaller external diameter at its distal end than those of the
ring nut 9 shown in FIG. 4, but the remaining constructions and the
function of the ring nut are similar. When this ring nut 90 is
mounted, the probe 6 is given a shorter protrusion from the distal
end face 94 than that of the construction of FIG. 4 so that its
insertion into the earhole is shallower. Since the ring nuts having
the different shapes and sizes can thus be replaced for use, the
depth of insertion of the probe 6 into the earhole and the external
diameter of the probe 6 can be set to the proper conditions
according to ages or individual differences so that the
thermometric accuracies can be improved in the individual
cases.
[0097] Here, the replaceable ring nut may be exemplified by one
having an equal height but a different shape of the distal end
portion and a different area of the distal end face 94.
[0098] FIG. 6 is a longitudinal section showing the vicinity of a
probe of a thermometer according to another embodiment of the
invention. The thermometer, as shown in FIG. 6, has a function for
the ring nut to fix the probe and the probe cover simultaneously
with respect to the thermometer body. The following description
will be stressed on the differences from those of the embodiment
shown in FIGS. 1 to 5.
[0099] The probe 6 is removably mounted on the front face side of
the upper portion of the thermometer body 2.
[0100] The support base 7 is composed of the radially larger
portion 71 having the external thread 73 in its outer
circumference, and the radially smaller portion 72 at the distal
end side of the larger portion 71. A ring-shaped groove 711 is
formed in the distal end of the radially larger portion 71. On the
other hand, the radially smaller portion 72 is so tapered that it
can be inserted into the proximal end side of the probe 6.
[0101] At the proximal end of the probe 6, there is formed the
proximal portion 61. The proximal end of this proximal portion 61
is shaped to be fitted in the groove 711. This shape is specified
by a ring-shaped protrusion 611, for example.
[0102] Moreover, the probe 6 is gradually reduced in its external
diameter toward its distal end, and its distal end outer
circumferential portion 63 is so rounded as to ensure safety when
it is inserted into the earhole.
[0103] At the center portion of the support base 7, there is
erected the light guide (waveguide) 8 similar to the aforementioned
one. This light guide 8 is so covered with the protective sheet 81
as to cover its distal end opening.
[0104] This protective sheet 81 is clamped and fixed in a tensed
state by a ferrule (protective sheet fixing member) 82 which is
fitted around the light guide and which has a generally
diamond-shaped section. The ferrule 82 is fitted at its proximal
end portion in a recess 721 which is formed in the distal end of
the radially smaller portion 72.
[0105] On the radially larger portion 71 of the support base 7,
there is screwed a ring nut 96 similar to the aforementioned one.
In the inner face of the ring nut 96 on the proximal end side,
specifically, there is formed the internal thread 91, which is
screwed with the external thread 73 of the radially larger portion
71 to support and fix the ring nut 96 on the support base 7.
[0106] This ring nut 96 has the tapered portion 92 which is
gradually reduced in its external diameter from the vicinity of the
distal end of the internal thread 91 toward the distal end. In the
inner face of the tapered portion 92, there is formed the engaging
portion 93 which is in engagement with the probe cover 11.
[0107] With the probe 6 being covered with the probe cover 11, the
protrusion 611 is fitted in the groove 711. Next, as the ring nut
96 is screwed by turning it in a predetermined direction, the probe
cover 11 comes at the engaging portion 93 into engagement, and the
proximal portion 61 is clamped between the radially larger portion
71 of the support base 7 and the engaging portion 93 of the ring
nut 96 so that the probe 6 is reliably fixed with respect to the
thermometer body 2. Thus, there are achieved effects similar to the
aforementioned ones.
[0108] With the probe 6 and the probe cover 11 being fixed with
respect to the thermometer body 2 by screwing the ring nut 96, the
ferrule 82 comes at its outer circumferential portion into abutment
against the inner face of the probe 6 so that it receives stresses
in the axial direction of the light guide 8 and toward the proximal
end. As a result, the protective sheet 81 is pulled toward the
proximal end so that at least its portion covering the distal end
opening of the light guide 8 is tensed to have no wrinkle.
[0109] The distal end face 94 of the ring nut 96 is formed into a
generally flat face and is given a function to regulate the
insertion of the probe 6 into the earhole to a predetermined depth,
like before.
[0110] In the outer circumference of the tapered portion 92 of the
ring nut 96, on the other hand, there are formed a plurality of
grooves (slide stopping means) 95 which are arranged at a
predetermined circumferential pitch, like before.
[0111] Here, the flanged mounting base portion or the like can be
formed around the open end (proximal end) of the probe cover 11 of
this embodiment so that the probe cover 11 can be fixed by clamping
the flange or the like between the probe 6 and the ring nut 96.
[0112] Moreover, the wide area of the trunk portion 12 of the probe
cover 11 of the ring nut 96 can be clamped by holding the probe
cover 11 and the engaging portion 93 into a facial contact.
[0113] In this embodiment, too, two or more ring nuts having
different shapes and sizes can be replaced for use.
[0114] The thermometer thus constructed has the advantage that it
can be easily operated, because the probe 6 and the probe cover 11
can be simultaneously mounted on and demounted from the thermometer
body 2.
[0115] Another advantage is that the thermometer can be easily
cleaned with the probe 6 being removed, because no thread need be
formed in the inner face of the probe 6.
[0116] Although the thermometer of the invention has been described
in connection with its embodiments with reference to the
accompanying drawings, it should not be limited thereto. For
example, the fixing member should not be limited to the ring nut to
be screwed but may be any if it has a function at least to fix the
probe cover.
[0117] Moreover, the probe cover 11 may have no lip portion or may
be constructed by jointing a plurality of members.
[0118] FIGS. 7 and 8 are a top plan view and a rear view,
respectively, and show the thermometer of the invention. For
conveniences of description, the lefthand side of FIG. 7 is located
at the "distal end" whereas the righthand side is at the "proximal
end." The upper side of FIG. 8 is located at the "upper portion"
whereas the lower side is at the "lower portion." The ring nut 9 is
one raised portion of the thermometer body 2. On the thermometer
body 2, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, there is formed another raised
portion 22 which comes into abutment against the vicinity of the
ear when the probe 6 is inserted for the thermometry. As a result,
the raised portion 22 provides a fulcrum to fix the thermometer 1
at a predetermined portion of the face when the thermometer is
used. In other words, the angle, depth and so on of the probe 6, as
inserted into the earhole, can be easily kept as they are during
the thermometry.
[0119] Moreover, the raised portion 22 is composed of at least a
pair of raised portions 22aand 22b, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 7.
These raised portions 22aand 22b are raised in substantially the
same direction as the protruding direction of the probe 6 from the
same face as that, in which the probe 6 of the thermometer body 2
is placed, that is, from the front face. Moreover, the raised
portions 22a and 22b are formed on the two sides of a center line C
extending in the longitudinal direction.
[0120] Here, the rise in substantially the same direction of the
protruding direction of the probe 6 means that the center line of
the protruding direction of the probe 6 and the extensions of the
raised portions in the height direction are generally in
parallel.
[0121] As shown in FIG. 10, moreover, the thermometer 1 is
preferably used to abut against the positions across the cheekbone
so that the raised portions 22a and 22b may individually come into
abutment against the vicinities of the cheekbone. This positioning
can make it easier and more reliable to fix the thermometer 1. For
this positioning, the raised portions 22a and 22b are preferably
arranged at a predetermined distance across a recess 20.
[0122] The probe 6 is formed on one longitudinal end side of the
thermometer body 2, and the raised portions 22a and 22b are formed
on the other end side. More specifically, the raised portions 22a
and 22b are arranged at such a distance from the probe 6 as is
suitable for supporting/fixing the thermometer body 2 on the face.
With this construction, too, the thermometer 1 can be reliably
fixed on the thermometer 1 around the raised portion 22.
[0123] The height, shape and so on of the raised portions 22a and
22b should not be especially limited, but may be have any height
and shape if they can hold/fix the thermometer 1 with neither
hurting the face nor discomforting the wearer. Here, the raised
portions 22a and 22b need not have the same height and shape of
rise but may have different heights and shapes.
[0124] The raised portions 22a and 22b are made of a resin
material, for example, and may be formed integrally with or
separately from the thermometer body 2. On the crest of the raised
portion 22, on the other hand, there may be mounted a cushioning
member which is made of rubber or a soft resin for damping the
stimulation upon the face or preventing the slide.
[0125] In the recess 20 formed near the raised portions 22a and
22b, there is mounted the power switch 3 for turning ON/OFF the
power of the thermometer. With this construction, it is possible to
prevent the malfunction which might otherwise be caused the power
supply is interrupted even during the thermometry by the touch of
the power switch with a portion of the finger gripping the
thermometer 1 or a portion of the face.
[0126] The power switch 3 may have any shape or any operation if it
is positioned in the recess 20, but is preferably positioned in the
recess 20 on the center line C of the thermometer body 2. As a
result, the portion of the finger or face can be made more
reluctant to touch the power switch 3 during the thermometry so
that the aforementioned malfunction can be reliably prevented.
[0127] Moreover, the recess 20 is equipped with the display 5.
Since the display 5 is disposed in the vicinity of the power switch
3, the connected state of the power switch 3 and the acting state
of the thermometer 1 can be visually confirmed with ease from the
indications of the display 5 simultaneously with the operation of
the power switch 3.
[0128] The display 5 is constructed of a liquid crystal display
device, for example, to display the metered value, the standby or
elapsed time during the thermometry, and a letter, symbol or symbol
mark for recognizing the residual of the battery.
[0129] The thermometer body 2 is equipped on its back face side, as
shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, with the thermometric switch 4 to be
operated at least at the start or end of the thermometry. The
direction to operate (press) the thermometric switch 4 and the
direction to protrude the probe 6 are generally on a common axis.
Here, this general alignment between the operating direction of the
thermometric switch 4 and the protruding direction of the probe 6
means that the center line of the protruding direction of the probe
6 and the extension of the operating direction of the thermometric
switch 4 are generally on a common line, and means that the
later-described effect is not seriously reduced. With this
construction, even if the thermometric switch 4 is operated by the
hand gripping the thermometer body 2 while the probe 6 being
inserted in the earhole, the probe 6 is neither moved in a
direction different from its inserted direction nor turned in the
earhole so that the angle, position and so on of insertion into the
earhole are kept unchanged. As a result, the same thermometric
position can always be maintained to prevent the fluctuation in the
metered value. For a similar reasoning, moreover, it is preferred
that the operating direction of the thermometric switch 4 and the
protruding directions of the raised portions 22a and 22b be
substantially identical.
[0130] The operations of this thermometric switch should not be
especially limited but may be exemplified by the push, slide and
touch types. However, the preferable one is the push type in which
the thermometric switch 4 is pressed (pushed) in substantially the
same direction as the protruding direction of the probe 6, and the
more preferable one is the push type in which the pressing
(pushing) action is followed by a click feel. This type is simple
in operations but is not required for handling the thermometer body
2 for each operation of the thermometric switch 4 so that the
angle, position and so on of insertion of the probe 6 into the
earhole are not fluctuated to achieve the stable thermometry.
Moreover, the push type followed by the click feel can confirm the
operation of the thermometric switch 4 reliably by the sound and
the touch feel.
[0131] On the other hand, the thermometric switch 4 is preferably
exemplified by one for detecting the body temperature by operating
it continuously till the finish of the thermometry and is
especially preferably exemplified by one for the thermometry by
pressing it at the start of the thermometry and continuing the
press till the finish of the thermometry. This operation can
prevent the fluctuation of the thermometer 1 during the thermometry
more effectively.
[0132] This operation of the thermometric switch 4 may be effected
by clicking it a plurality of times till the finish of the
thermometry. Moreover, no especial restriction is on the
arrangement position, the shape and size of the operation face, and
the number of thermometric switches 4.
[0133] Although the thermometer of the invention has been described
in connection with its embodiment with reference to the
accompanying drawings, the invention should not be limited
thereto.
[0134] For example, the thermometer body 2 should not be limited to
the shown shape but may be any if at least the probe 6 and the
thermometric switch 4 can be mounted thereon and easily operated by
the single hand. On the other hand, the shape and number of the
raised portion 22 can be arbitrary, and the raised portions 22a and
22b may merge at their end portions into each other to form one
raised portion 22.
[0135] FIG. 11 is a section taken along line B-B' of FIG. 1; FIG.
12 is a section taken along line A-A' of FIG. 1 and showing a state
in which the probe cover is mounted on the probe of the thermometer
of the invention having an O-ring clamped midway of a beep sound
(an information sound) transmitting passage; and FIG. 13 is a
perspective view showing a structure of a temperature metering
portion; and FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a circuit
construction of the thermometer of the invention. For conveniences
of description, the upper side of FIG. 11 will be called the "upper
portion" whereas the lower side, the "lower portion." The lefthand
side of FIG. 11 will be called the "front face" whereas the
righthand side, the "back face." The upper side of FIG. 12 will be
called the "distal end" whereas the lower side, the "proximal end."
Moreover, the "front side portion of the casing" will mean the
portion on the side of the probe (the side closer to the ear), as
taken in the direction of the probe axis of the casing (the
incidence direction of the infrared ray) whereas the "back side
portion of the casing" will mean the portion on the side opposed to
the probe (the side apart from the ear), as taken in the direction
of the probe axis of the casing (the incidence direction of the
infrared ray).
[0136] The casing 21 of the thermometer body 2 is constructed of
three main components: a front casing 29 forming a front side
portion of the casing; a back casing 23 forming a back side portion
of the casing; and a cover member 24.
[0137] In the display 5 of the front face of the front casing 29,
there is formed a body temperature indicating window (opening) 50.
In this window 50, there is mounted a (not-shown) display unit made
of a liquid crystal display element (LCD) for indicating the
metered body temperature or other information (e.g., the residual
of the battery or the standby time for the thermometry). Moreover,
the window 50 is covered with a transparent sheet 51.
[0138] On the front face of the front casing 29, on the other hand,
there is mounted the power switch 3 which has already been
described.
[0139] The thermometric switch 4 is mounted on the upper portion of
the back casing 23, which is fixed on the front casing 29 by means
of screws 25, 34.
[0140] The cover member 24 is removably mounted on the lower
portion of the front casing 29. Specifically, a retaining member
241, as formed at the upper end of the cover member 24, is retained
on the retaining portion 221 of the front casing 29, and the lower
end portion of the cover member 24 is fixed on the lower end
portion of the front casing 29 by means of a screw (screw member)
26. This cover member 24 is opened/closed when the (not-shown)
battery of a power supply 40 is loaded or replaced.
[0141] In the casing 21, as shown in FIG. 11, there is mounted a
circuit board 30, on which there are mounted the thermometric
portion 10, a thermometric portion support member 108, control
means 31 made of a microcomputer, an A/D converter 32 and so on. In
the casing 21, on the other hand, there is mounted the power supply
40 for housing the battery to supply the electric power to the
portions of the circuit board 30. In the casing 21, there is
further mounted a buzzer 33 for generating a beep sound (an
information sound) when the thermometry is finished. In short, the
thermometric mechanism is housed in the casing 21.
[0142] The thermometric portion 10 is constructed of an infrared
sensor 101 and a temperature sensor (environmental temperature
metering means) 107.
[0143] The control means 31 includes a CPU, a timer (including an
auto power OFF timer) and a memory (RAM and ROM). This control
means 31 makes the later-described control to activate the buzzer
33 when the thermometry is finished.
[0144] Moreover, the control means 31 is equipped with the auto
power OFF timer for suppressing the useless power consumption.
[0145] This auto power OFF timer turns OFF the power automatically,
if the power switch 3 is left ON, after a predetermined time period
(60 secs.) after it was started. Even if the power switch is turned
OFF within 60 secs. after the auto power OFF timer was started, the
timer continues its counting action (time measuring action) till 60
secs. elapses.
[0146] As shown in FIG. 13, the infrared sensor 101 is equipped
with a thermopile 102. Moreover, the thermopile has hot junctions
103 disposed at a heat collecting portion 106 positioned at the
center through a thermally insulating band 105, and cold junctions
104 disposed around the thermally insulating band 105.
[0147] In the vicinity of the infrared sensor 101, on the other
hand, there is disposed the temperature sensor 107. This
temperature sensor 107 detects the temperature around the thermally
insulating band 105 of the infrared sensor 101, i.e., the
temperature of the environment where the infrared sensor 101 is
placed, and the temperature of the cold junctions 104 which is in a
state of a temperature equal to the environmental temperature, when
the environmental temperature is not fluctuated (stable).
[0148] In this thermometric portion 10, the infrared sensor 101 and
the temperature sensor 107 produce a signal corresponding to a
temperature difference between the hot junctions 103, as heated by
the irradiation of the infrared ray from the inside of the ear (the
eardrum, the external auditory miatus), and the cold junctions 104,
as left unheated by the infrared ray from the inside of the ear,
and a signal corresponding to the temperature (environmental
temperature) in the vicinity of the cold junctions 104,
respectively, so that the body temperature can be determined by the
functions of those signals.
[0149] Here, this thermometer 1 has a soundproof mechanism for
exhibiting a function (as will be called the soundproof function")
to suppress the transmission of the beep sound, as emitted from the
buzzer (sound source) 33, to the probe 6 or the probe side (the
front face side of the thermometer 1). The thermometer 1 of this
embodiment is equipped with a plurality of soundproof mechanisms,
the constructions of which will be sequentially described in the
following.
[0150] The vicinity of the support member 7 for the probe 6
constructs one transmission passage for the beep sound issued from
the buzzer 33. By making this beep sound transmission passage long
or complex, therefore, the soundproof function is exhibited. In
this embodiment, the proximal end side of the ring nut 9 is
inserted into the casing 21 (or the front casing 29) and is
surrounded over its circumference by a wall portion 27. From the
proximal end of the wall portion 27, there is protruded inward a
rib 28. This rib 28 leaves a clearance from the support member 7.
The wall portion 27 and the rib 28 are formed integrally with the
front casing 29. With this construction, the clearance between the
proximal end portion of the ring nut 9, the wall portion 27 and the
rib 28, as providing the beep sound transmission passage, is
elongated, narrowed and complicated to exhibit an excellent
soundproof function.
[0151] In short, the support member 7 of the probe 6 and the ring
nut 9 (as will be called the "probe supporting peripheral members")
form the passage of the clearance having the narrow, long and
complex shape with the casing, thereby to suppress the transmission
of the beep sound through this portion. These clearances per se
have an effect to suppress the transmission, as might otherwise be
caused by the vibrations, of the beep sound from the casing 21 to
the probe supporting peripheral members when contacted.
[0152] The clearance spacing S between the inner face of the wall
portion 27 and the outer face of the ring nut 9 is preferred to be
as small as possible. If S.ltoreq.0.1 mm, however, the wall portion
27 (the casing 21) becomes liable to contact with the ring nut 9
thereby to cause the effect to transmit the beep sound by the
vibrations. Specifically, the spacing S is preferably about 0.1 to
2.0 mm, and more preferably about 0.2 to 1.5 mm.
[0153] Moreover, the length L, as taken in the axial direction of
the probe, of the clearance between the inner face of the wall
portion 27 and the outer face of the ring nut 9 is preferred to be
as large as possible. However, a preferable upper limit is
determined from other practical points (such as the limit to the
shape or the like), and the length L is preferably about 2.0 to
25.0 mm, and more preferably about 3.0 to 10.0 mm.
[0154] As the soundproof mechanism, on the other hand, there is
disposed a vibration absorbing member 16 midway of the beep sound
transmission passage. Specifically, the vibration absorbing member
16 made of an O-ring is clamped between the rib 28 made integral
with the front casing 29 and a flange 75 of the support base 7. As
a result, the beep sound transmission passage is partially blocked
or constricted to exhibit an excellent soundproof function.
[0155] The diameter of the cross-section of the O-ring wire is 0.2
to 1.5 mm, and more preferably 0.5 to 1.2 mm. If the diameter is
less than 0.2 mm, even a slight force to be applied to this portion
becomes liable to cause the contact between the rib 28 and the
flange 75 of the support base 7 thereby to effect the transmission
of the beep sound by the vibrations. On the other hand, the value
of 1.5 mm is an upper limit from the practical point (such as the
limit to the shape or the like).
[0156] As the material for making the vibration absorbing member
16, there can be enumerated: a variety of rubber materials such as
natural rubber, isoprene rubber, butadiene rubber,
styrene-butadiene rubber, nytril rubber, chloroprene rubber, butyl
rubber, acryl rubber, ethylene-propylene rubber, urethane rubber,
silicone rubber or fluorine-contained rubber; or a variety of
thermoplastic elastomers such as styrene, polyolefin, polyvinyl
chloride, polyurethane, polyester or polyamide elastomer.
[0157] Moreover, the soundproof mechanism is characterized in that
the buzzer 33 is mounted on the back face side (i.e., on the side
opposed to the probe 6, as taken in the axial direction of the
probe) of the thermometer body 2. As shown in FIG. 11, more
specifically, the buzzer 33 is supported and fixed on the inner
face on the back face side of the back casing 23 through a support
portion 231. With this construction, the transmission of the sound,
as emitted from the buzzer 33, can be reduced to provide the
excellent soundproof function, in contrast that the sound is
transmitted to the probe 6 through the circuit board 30 and the
support base 7 when the buzzer 33 is mounted on the circuit board
30.
[0158] In this construction, the buzzer 33 is mounted on the inner
face of the back face of the back casing 23 so that the beep sound
issued from the buzzer 33 becomes liable to be released to the back
face side of the thermometer body 2. Especially when the buzzer is
mounted on the board 30, the resonance becomes reluctant to occur
on the curved surface of the casing 21 so that the beep sound has a
tendency to be transmitted from that portion. The buzzer is thus
mounted on the inner face of the back face side of the back casing
23 so that the beep sound can be easily released to the back face
irrespective of the shape of the surface from the back casing 23
which is equipped with the curved surface as in this embodiment.
This makes it easier for the operator (for the thermometry) to hear
the sound of the buzzer 33. As a result, the power consumption of
the buzzer can be reduced, while keeping the easy hearing of the
buzzer sound by the operator as in the prior art, and the level of
the sound, as issued from the buzzer 33, can be relatively lowered
to improve the soundproof function.
[0159] Here, the position for mounting the buzzer 33 should not be
limited to the shown one but may be located on the inner side of
the lower end portion of the back casing 23, for example.
[0160] On the other hand, the soundproof mechanism is characterized
in that the thickness of the transparent sheet 51 covering the
window 50 is made larger than that necessary for the strength
(retaining strength). Specifically, the transparent sheet 51 is
sufficient, if its thickness is about 0.2 mm, for the strength. In
this embodiment, however, the thickness of the transparent sheet 51
is preferably 0.4 mm or more, and more preferably 0.5 mm or more.
As a result, an excellent soundproof function is exhibited.
[0161] The area of the transparent sheet 51 should not be
especially limited but is required to have a portion for adhering
itself. The larger area is the better for preventing the
separation, but the area has a preferably upper limit from the
other practical point (such as the limit to the shape or the like).
The ratio of the transparent sheet 51 to the opening area of the
window 50 is preferably about 120 to 500%, and more preferably
about 150 to 400%.
[0162] As the material for making the transparent sheet 51, here
can be enumerated: a polyolefin such as polyethylene or
polypropylene; an acrylic resin such as polyvinyl chloride,
polycarbonate or polymethyl methacrylate; polyester such as
polyethylene terephthalate or polybutylene terephthalate; or an ABS
resin.
[0163] The individual soundproof mechanisms thus far described do
not obstruct the release of the beep sound to the back face side
(i.e., on the side opposed to the probe 6, as taken in the axial
direction of the probe) of the thermometer body 2. Especially by
exhibiting the soundproof function to the side (the front side) of
the probe 6, the release of the buzzer sound (the beep sound) to
the back face side can be improved to improve the audibility of the
buzzer sound by the operator.
[0164] Moreover, the individual soundproof mechanisms can lower the
transmission (propagation) of the beep sound into the ear having
received the probe 6 preferably by 2 dB or more and more preferably
by 3 dB or more. This can lighten and eliminate the
uncomfortableness of the subject effectively.
[0165] Here will be described a method for using the thermometer
1.
[0166] The probe 6 is screwed and mounted on the radially smaller
portion 72 of the support base 7 of the thermometer body 2, as has
been described hereinbefore, and is covered with the probe cover
11. Next, the ring nut 9 is threaded on the probe cover 11 and is
screwed on the radially larger portion 71 of the support base 7. As
a result, the trunk portion 12 of the probe cover 11 is clamped
between the sloped portion 64 of the probe 6 and the engaging
portion 93 of the ring nut 9 so that the probe cover 11 is fixed on
the probe 6. As a result, the mounting of the probe cover 11 is
completed.
[0167] Next, the operator turns ON the power switch 3. After lapse
of a predetermined time period, the operator grips the thermometer
body 2 and inserts the probe 6, as enveloped by the probe cover 11,
into the earhole of the subject.
[0168] Next, the thermometric switch 4 is pressed for a
predetermined time period. As a result, the body temperature is
metered. Specifically, the infrared ray (heat ray), as radiated
from the eardrum membrane and its vicinity, transmits the film 14
and the protective sheet 81 sequentially and is guided into the
light guide 8. The infrared ray is repeatedly reflected on the
inner face of the light guide 8 and reaches the infrared sensor 101
of the thermometric portion 10 so that it irradiates the heat
collecting portion 106.
[0169] From the infrared sensor 101, there is obtained an output
(an analog signal) corresponding to the temperature difference
between the hot junctions 103 and the cold junctions 104. This
output is converted into a digital signal by the A/D converter 32
and is inputted to the control means 32.
[0170] From the temperature sensor 107, on the other hand, there is
obtained an output (an analog signal) corresponding to the
temperature (the environmental temperature) of the cold junctions
104. This output is converted into a digital signal by the A/D
converter 32 and is inputted to the control means 32.
[0171] On the basis of the digital signals inputted from the
infrared sensor and the temperature sensor, the control means 31
performs a predetermined operational processing and a suitable
temperature correcting processing to determine the temperature. The
temperature determined is indicated in the display 5.
[0172] When the thermometry is thus finished, the control means 31
drives the buzzer 33 to make a sound of the finish. The operator is
enabled to know the finish of the thermometry by hearing the buzzer
sound issued from the buzzer 33.
[0173] Here in this embodiment, the information sound is
exemplified by the buzzer sound but may be another such as a voice
coming from a sound source such as a small-sized speaker.
EXAMPLES
[0174] Here will be described specific examples of the
invention.
[0175] The ear type thermometers having the constructions, as
equipped with the following sound-proof mechanisms ({circle over
(1)} to {circle over (4)}, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, were
manufactured.
[0176] {circle over (1)} The wall portion 27 and the rib 28 were
formed.
[0177] The spacing S of the clearance between the inner face of the
wall portion 27 and the outer face of the ring nut 9: 0.6 mm (on
average).
[0178] The axial length L of the clearance between the inner face
of the wall portion 27 and the outer face of the ring nut 9: 8.0
mm.
[0179] {circle over (2)} The vibration absorbing member (the
O-ring) 16 was mounted.
[0180] The material for the O-ring: Silicone rubber.
[0181] The diameter of the cross section of the O-ring wire: 0.5
mm.
[0182] {circle over (3)} The buzzer 33 was mounted on the inner
face on the back face side of the back casing 23.
[0183] {circle over (4)} The transparent sheets 51 were given
thicknesses of 0.5 mm, 0.8 mm and 1.5 mm.
[0184] The area ratios of the transparent sheets 51 to the window
50 were set to about 200%.
[0185] The material for making the transparent sheets 51:
polycarbonate.
Example 1
[0186] The soundproof mechanism {circle over (1)} was incorporated.
The buzzer 33 was mounted on the circuit substrate 30. The
transparent sheet 51 was given a thickness of 0.2 mm.
Example 2
[0187] The soundproof mechanism {circle over (2)} was incorporated.
The buzzer 33 was mounted on the circuit substrate 30. The
transparent sheet 51 was given a thickness of 0.2 mm.
Example 3
[0188] The soundproof mechanism {circle over (3)} was incorporated.
The transparent sheet 51 was given a thickness of 0.2 mm.
Example 4a
[0189] The soundproof mechanism {circle over (4)} (the thickness of
the transparent sheet 51: 0.5 mm) was incorporated. The buzzer 33
was mounted on the circuit substrate 30.
Example 4b
[0190] The soundproof mechanism {circle over (4)} (the thickness of
the transparent sheet 51: 0.8 mm) was incorporated. The buzzer 33
was mounted on the circuit substrate 30.
Example 4c
[0191] The soundproof mechanism {circle over (4)} (the thickness of
the transparent sheet 51: 1.5 mm) was incorporated. The buzzer 33
was mounted on the circuit substrate 30.
Example 5
[0192] The soundproof mechanisms {circle over (1)} and {circle over
(2)} were incorporated. The buzzer 33 was mounted on the circuit
substrate 30. The transparent sheet 51 was given a thickness of 0.2
mm.
Example 6
[0193] The soundproof mechanisms {circle over (1)}, {circle over
(2)} and {circle over (3)} were incorporated. The transparent sheet
51 was given a thickness of 0.2 mm.
Example 7
[0194] The soundproof mechanisms {circle over (1)}, {circle over
(2)}, {circle over (3)} and {circle over (4)} (the thickness of the
transparent sheet 51: 0.5 mm) were incorporated.
Control
[0195] None of the soundproof mechanisms {circle over (1)} to
{circle over (4)} was incorporated. The buzzer 33 was mounted on
the circuit board 30 (at the position shown in FIG. 16). The
transparent sheet 51 was given a thickness of 0.2 mm. Moreover, the
periphery of the ring nut was given a structure shown in FIG.
17.
[0196] As to the aforementioned individual ear type thermometers,
the soundproof function was measured in an anechoic chamber by an
experimental device shown in FIG. 15, as follows.
[0197] On one face side of a sound insulating member 41 made of
rubber, there was mounted a cylindrical member which was made of
polyurethane while assuming the ear of a subject, and the distal
end portion of the probe 6 was inserted into the cylindrical member
42. At the other end of the cylindrical member 42, there was
mounted a microphone 43. The distance between the microphone 43 and
the distal end of the probe 6 was 5 cm. On the back face side of
the ear type thermometer, too, there was mounted a similar
microphone 44. The distance between the microphone 44 and the back
face of the ear type thermometer was set to 5 cm.
[0198] In this state, the buzzer, as built in the ear type
thermometer, was drived so that its sound was grasped to measure
its sound-level by the microphones 43 and 44. The sound-level on
the side of the microphone 43 corresponds to that on the side of 10
the subject, and the sound-level on the side of the microphone 44
corresponds to that on the side of the operator. The results
obtained are tabulated in the following Table 1.
1 TABLE 1 Sound Level at Sound Level Subject [dB] at Operator [dB]
Example 1 75.5 77.0 Example 2 74.0 76.0 Example 3 76.5 78.0 Example
4a 75.5 79.0 Example 4b 69.0 79.3 Example 4c 64.2 79.6 Example 5
75.0 77.0 Example 6 73.0 78.0 Example 7 71.0 79.0 Control 79.5
74.0
[0199] As enumerated in Table 1, any of the ear type thermometers
of Examples 1 to 7 lowered the sound-level on the side of the
subject by 3 dB or more but not the sound-level on the side of the
operator, as compared with the ear type thermometer of Control
having no soundproof mechanism. As a result, the sound-level of
Examples 1 to 7 were reversed in their magnitudes between the sides
of the subject and the operator, as different from Control, and the
difference between the sound-level of the sides of the subject and
the operator was 1.5 dB or more. Especially Examples 5, 6 and 7, in
which a plurality of soundproof mechanisms were combined, could
achieve more excellent soundproof functions.
[0200] Here, the combination of the soundproof mechanisms should
not be limited to those of Examples 5 to 7 but may be any of
{circle over (1)} to {circle over (4)} or an arbitrary kind of
combinations containing them.
[0201] Although the thermometer of the invention has been described
in connection with its embodiments with reference to the
accompanying drawings, the invention should not be limited thereto.
Especially the construction of the soundproof mechanisms should not
be limited to those of the shown embodiments.
[0202] The display 5 is constructed of a liquid crystal display
device capable of indicating the measured body temperature in
numerals and a symbol mark 59 composed of a plurality of segments.
One example of this symbol mark 59 is illustrated in FIGS.
18A-18C.
[0203] As illustrated in FIGS. 18A-18C, the symbol mark 59
indicates the character of a rabbit face and is composed of a first
segment 52 indicating the left ear portion of the rabbit, a second
segment 53 indicating the right ear portion of the rabbit, and a
third segment 54 indicating the face portion of the rabbit. These
segments 52 to 54 can be lighted or flashed independently of one
another by the control of the control means 31.
[0204] During the standby period to be described later, for
example, the first segment 52 is lighted or flashed at first for a
predetermined time period (as shown in FIG. 18A). Then, the first
segment 52 and the second segment 53 are lighted or flashed for a
predetermined time period (as shown in FIG. 18B). Then, all the
segments 52 to 54 are lighted or flashed (as shown in FIG. 18C).
After this standby, all the segments 52 to 54 are lighted.
[0205] In this indication mode, the number of segments to be
lighted or flashed increases with the lapse of time, and all the
segments are lighted or flashed at last. Thus, it is possible to
know the lapse of time easily and to judge the remaining time
period. During the standby, therefore, it is possible to eliminate
or lighten the feeling of uneasiness or the pain of standby.
[0206] In the indication mode, the symbol mark is gradually
completed from an incomplete shape so that the completed character
finally appears. An infant or child can be interested but not
tired, when the body temperature is to be metered, by letting it
observing the display while waiting. This can smooth the
thermometry.
[0207] The thermometer 1 of the invention is equipped with
correction means for correcting the metered value in accordance
with the change in the environmental temperature. This correction
means is installed as a program (software) in the control means
(microcomputer) 31. Here will be described the meaning of the
correction by this correction means and the construction of the
correction means.
[0208] In the thermometric portion 10, the cold junctions 104 and
the temperature sensor 107 may have different responsibilities to
the fluctuations in the temperature of the environment in which the
thermometer 1 is placed. In the transient situations where the
temperature of the environment of the thermometer 1 fluctuates to
change the environmental temperature of the infrared sensor 101
itself, a discrepancy may occur between the metered temperature of
the temperature sensor 107 (the environmental temperature of the
infrared sensor 101) and the temperature of the cold junctions 104
thereby to cause an error in the metered body temperature.
[0209] FIG. 19 is a graph illustrating relations among the change
in the environmental temperature of the thermometer 1, the metered
temperature of the thermometer 1, and the changing rate of the
environmental temperature of the infrared sensor 101. (A) in the
graph indicates a relation between the elapsed time after movement
to an environment at 25.degree. C. and the metered temperature when
the thermometer having no correction means is cooled to 5.degree.
C. and moved to an environment at 25.degree. C. to meter a heat
source (black body furnace) at 32.degree. C. In this example, a
temperature error has a value of +2.degree. C. or more after 120
secs. from the movement to the environment at 25.degree. C. and
+1.degree. C. or more even after 600 secs.
[0210] Both the temperature of the cold junctions 104 and the
metered temperature of the temperature sensor 107 are subject to
the influences of the temperature of the environment where the
thermometer 1 is placed. In the aforementioned situations, the
change in the metered temperature of the temperature sensor 107 per
unit time, that is, the changing rate of the environmental
temperature of the infrared sensor 101 is plotted as (B) in FIG.
19.
[0211] From (A) and (B) of FIG. 19, it is found out that a
correlation is between the changing rate (differential value of
TH1) of the metered temperature of the temperature sensor 107 and
the temperature error of the metered temperature. The relation
between the changing rate (differential value of TH1) of the
metered temperature of the temperature sensor 107 and the
temperature error of the metered temperature has been examined by
changing the pattern of the environmental temperature change of the
thermometer variously to confirm that there is a very good
correlation, as illustrated in FIG. 20.
[0212] On the basis of this correlation, therefore, a calibration
curve for a correction U to cancel the temperature errors against
the individual changing rates of the metered temperatures of the
temperature sensor 107 is prepared in advance to correct the
metered temperature (body temperature) on the basis of the
correction U. The temperature thus corrected is suppressed in its
error within .+-.0.4.degree. C., as illustrated by (C) in FIG. 19,
even immediately after the temperature fluctuation of the
environment where the thermometer 1 is placed.
[0213] Here, FIG. 21 illustrates one example of the correction U.
In FIG. 21, the X-axis indicates the changing rate of the
environmental temperature, and the Y-axis indicates the temperature
error uncorrected and the correction. The correction U is set to
cancel the temperature errors excepting the temperature error of a
region F where the changing rate of the environmental temperature
is relatively high. In this case, in a region D where the changing
rate of the environmental temperature is small (especially near 0),
the noise component of the temperature change is considered to
reduce the correction substantially to 0 so as to avoid an
instability in the corrected temperature.
[0214] In the case of a slow temperature change (in case the
temperature is metered extremely many times, for example), more
specifically, the metered temperature at the temperature sensor 107
arises, and the fluctuation component (noise component) of the
metered temperature is amplified to appear in the differential
value. If this fluctuation is corrected, the value naturally
becomes unstable. In this case, therefore, no substantial
correction is made to set the correction U substantially to 0.
[0215] On the other hand, the correction U is restricted, if
necessary, by an upper limit and/or a lower limit. In order to
prevent an extremely large correction from being erroneously made
by the influences of noises, for example, it is possible to set the
upper limit Emax and the lower limit Emin. Here, the noises are
caused when the AD value is erroneously made abnormal by the
malfunction of the A/D converter 32. As illustrated in FIG. 21,
therefore, the correction U takes the values Emax and Emin in the
regions wherein the temperature changing rate has a large absolute
value and where the corrected values considering the correlation
between the temperature changing rate and the metered temperature
error are at Emax or more and at Emin or less.
[0216] In order to make the corrections on the basis of the
temperature change of the environment of the thermometer 1, as
described above, it is necessary to detect the changing rate of the
environmental temperature of the infrared sensor 101. For this
necessity, the environmental temperature of the infrared sensor 101
has to be metered two times at a predetermined time interval (of 4
secs. in this embodiment), and the thermometry has to stand by for
that time interval.
[0217] For this standby time, the symbol mark 59 is indicated in
the aforementioned mode in the display 5 in this embodiment.
[0218] After the thermometry of the body temperature, moreover, the
probe 6 of the thermometer 1 is partially warmed by the heat
transfer from the inside of the ear so that a temperature
distribution arises among the probe cover 11, the probe 6, the
temperature sensor 107 and the cold junctions 104. This temperature
distribution causes the temperature error. After the finish of
thermometry, therefore, the subsequent thermometry of the body
temperature has to be inhibited to stand by for a predetermined
period till the temperature distribution is settled to some extent,
that is, till the probe 6 is cooled down.
[0219] In this embodiment, the symbol mark 59 is indicated in the
aforementioned mode in the display for the standby time (e.g., 8 to
10 secs. in this embodiment) after the finish of a thermometry and
before a next thermometry is possible.
[0220] FIGS. 22 to 25 are flow charts showing the controlling
operations of the control means 31. One example of the control
operations of the control means 31 will be described along with the
flow charts.
[0221] When the power switch 3 is turned ON, an initialization is
performed (at Step 201) at first for the operations of the control
means 31 such as I/O or the like. Then, an AD value (th1) from the
temperature sensor 107 is stored in a memory (at Step 202) so as to
examine the temperature change in the environmental temperature of
the infrared sensor 101 (as will be shortly called the temperature
change").
[0222] Next, it is decided (at Step 203) whether or not the
thermometry is first (with the auto power OFF timer being
inactive). In the first thermometry, the auto power OFF timer is
reset/started (at Step 204). At this time, TIM is set to 0.
[0223] The present time (the timer value TIM) is stored in TIM1 (at
Step 205), and the indication of standby is started in the display
5 (at Step 206). This standby indication is effected by the symbol
mark 59 in the aforementioned mode.
[0224] It is decided (at Step 207) whether or not the time period
of the timer has elapsed 4 secs. The standby is indicated till 4
secs. is elapsed. After lapse of 4 secs., the routine transfers to
a later-described Step 211. Here, this time period "4 secs." is the
necessary minimum standby time to determine the temperature change,
and its setting can be arbitrarily changed.
[0225] If it is decided at Step 203 that the thermometry is not
first, it is decided (at Step 208) whether or not the time period
of the timer has elapsed 8 secs., that is, whether or not 8 secs.
has elapsed from the finish of the previous thermometry. If this
answer is YES, the thermometry is possible so that the routine
transfers to Step 204. Here, this time period "8 secs." is a
sufficient time period for the probe 6 to be cooled after the
thermometry till the temperature distribution is homogenized to
some extent, and its setting can be arbitrarily changed.
[0226] If the decision of Step 208 reveals that 8 secs. has not
elapsed yet, the present time (the value TIM of the timer) is
stored in TIM1 (at Step 209), and the standby is indicated in the
display 5 (at Step 206').
[0227] Next, a comparison is made between TIM-TIM1 and the larger
value of 8-TIM1, 4 to decide whether or not the former is larger
(at Step 210). The routine advances to Step 211, if the former is
larger, but otherwise returns to Step 206' to repeat the decisions
of Step 210. As a result, a predetermined standby time can be
retained to cool the probe 6 sufficiently for the thermometry.
[0228] When this standby time elapses, the end of thermometric
preparations is indicated (at Step 211), and the input of the
thermometric switch 4 is awaited (at Step 212). When the
thermometric switch 4 is pressed (turned ON), the present time (the
value TIM of the timer) is stored in the TIM2 (at Step 213), and
the AD value (th2) from the temperature sensor 107 is stored in the
memory (at Step 214).
[0229] In order to meter the temperature of the subject portion
(heat source), the AD value (tp0) from the infrared sensor 101 is
stored in the memory (at Step 215), and the AD value (th0) from the
temperature sensor 107 is stored in the memory (at Step 216).
[0230] In the operation unit, the values tp0 and th0 are
substituted into a preset formula TOBJ=f(tp0 , th0) between a heat
source temperature (before corrected) TOBJ (metered value) and the
values tp0 and th0, thereby to calculate the heat source
temperature (before corrected) (at Step 217).
[0231] In order to determine the temperature gradient (the
temperature changing rate) DTH, moreover, the values th1 and th2
are converted into temperatures to determine TH1 [.degree. C.] and
TH2 [.degree. C.] (at Step 218), and the temperature gradient DTH
is computed (at Step 219) from the values TH1, TH2, TIM1 and
TIM2.
[0232] Next, the correction U [.degree. C.] is determined by
correction means (at Steps 220 to 226). At first, it is decided (at
Step 220) whether or not the temperature gradient DTH is larger
than 0. If this answer is YES, that is, if the temperature gradient
is located at the righthand side of the Y-axis in FIG. 21, the
correction U [.degree. C.] is set (at Step 221) to a x DTH+b
(wherein letters a and b are coefficients which are experimentally
determined in advance). Moreover, it is decided (at Step 222)
whether or not the correction U is larger than 0. If this answer is
YES, that is, if the temperature gradient is confined in the region
D in FIG. 21, the correction U is changed to 0 (at Step 223). In
other cases, the correction U is kept as it is. If Step 220 decides
that the temperature gradient DTH is not larger than 0 but located
at the lefthand side of the Y-axis in FIG. 21, the correction U
[.degree. C.] is set (at Step 224) to a'0 x DTH+b' (wherein letters
a' and b' are coefficients which are experimentally determined in
advance). Moreover, it is decided (at Step 225) whether or not the
correction U is smaller than 0. If this answer is YES, that is, if
the temperature grodients is confined in the region D of FIG. 21,
the correction U is set to 0 (at Step 226). In other cases, the
correction u is kept as it is.
[0233] Next, the body temperature TMP [.degree. C.] is computed
with the aforementioned correction (at Step 227). Specifically, the
body temperature TMP [.degree. C.] (the temperature value at the
portion to be metered) is determined in the form of TOBJ+U
[.degree. C.].
[0234] Next, the body temperature, as determined at Step 227, is
indicated in the display 5 (at Step 228). The buzzer 33 is
activated (at Step 229) to inform the finish of thermometry. In
response to this information of the buzzer 33, the operator pulls
out the probe 6 from the earhole. This takes a time period of about
2 secs.
[0235] Next, the auto power OFF timer is reset/started (at Step
230), and the present time (the value TIM of the timer) is stored
in the TIM1 (at Step 231). For the subsequent thermometry, the AD
value (th1) from the temperature sensor 107 is stored in the memory
(at Step 232).
[0236] Next, the indication of standby in the display 5 is started
(at Step 233). This standby indication is effected by the symbol
mark 59 in the aforementioned mode. In this indication mode, for
example, the first segment 52 of the symbol mark 59 is flashed for
3 secs. (as shown at (a) in FIG. 18), the first segment 52 and the
second segment 53 are then flashed for 3 secs. (as shown at (b) in
FIG. 18), and all the segments 52 to 54 are flashed for 2 secs. (as
shown at (b) in FIG. 18), and all the segments 52 to 54 are
lighted.
[0237] It is decided (at Step 234) whether or not the time period
of the timer has elapsed 8 secs. If this answer is YES, the standby
is indicated. After lapse of 8 secs., the routine returns to Step
211. Here, this time period of "8 secs." is for cooling the probe
6, as heated by the body temperature, as close as possible to the
environmental temperature of the thermometer 1. The setting of the
time period can be arbitrarily changed. For this standby of 8
secs., moreover, an interruption of the thermometric switch 4 is
inhibited.
[0238] Even if the power switch 3 is turned OFF for the standby of
8 secs., the auto power OFF timer, as started at Steps 204 and 230,
continues its counting action till the time period of 60 secs.
elapses. If the power switch 3 is turned ON again before the lapse
of the time period of 8 secs. of the auto power OFF timer, the
standby is continued till the time period of 8 secs. elapses at
Step 210.
[0239] Here will be described another example in which the control
operations of the control means 31 are partially different. FIG. 26
is a flow chart showing a portion of the control operations of the
control means 31. with reference to this flow chart, here will be
described the points which are different from those of the example
shown in FIGS. 22 to 25.
[0240] This example is similar to that shown in FIGS. 22 to 25
excepting that the operations of Steps 301 to 304 shown in FIG. 26
are inserted before the operation of Step 227 of the example shown
in FIGS. 22 to 25.
[0241] After similar Steps 222, 223, 225 or 226, as shown in FIG.
26, it is decided (at Step 301) whether or not the correction U is
higher than the preset upper limit Emax. If this answer is YES, the
correction U is changed to the value Emax (at Step 302).
[0242] If the decision of Step 301 reveals that the correction U is
no more than Emax, it is further decided (at Step 303) whether or
not the correction U is smaller than the preset lower limit Emin.
If this answer is YES, the correction U is change to Emin (at Step
304). If the correction U is no less than Emax, it is kept as it
is.
[0243] Next, the body temperature TMP [.degree. C.] with the
aforementioned correction is computed (at Step 227). In short, the
body temperature TMP is determined as TOBJ+U [.degree. C.]. From
now on, the operations of Steps 228 to 234 are executed like
before.
[0244] Although the thermometer of the invention has been described
in connection with the individual embodiments with reference to the
accompanying drawings, the invention should not be limited thereto.
For example, the position of the display for indicating the symbol
mark may be located on the upper, back or side face of the
thermometer body. Moreover, the shape, size and the number of the
symbol mark to be displayed, and the arrangement and number of
segments, and the lighting or flashing patterns may also be any
other than those of the shown embodiments.
[0245] According to the thermometer of the invention, as has been
described hereinbefore, the provision of the fixing member makes it
possible to mount the probe cover stably on the probe. Especially,
since the probe cover will not easily come out from the probe, it
is possible to reliably prevent the disadvantage that only the
probe cover is left in the earhole when the probe is pulled out
from the earhole after the thermometry. When the fixing member is
made of the ring nut or the like, moreover, it is further possible
to prevent the disadvantage that the infant may remove the probe
cover erroneously to take it into the mouth.
[0246] When the different fixing members are replaced for use,
moreover, the depth and so on of insertion of the probe into the
earhole can be set to the proper conditions in accordance with the
ages or individual differences.
[0247] When the fixing member has the function to regulate the
depth of insertion of the probe into the subject portion, moreover,
it is possible to prevent the metering error, as caused by the
fluctuation in the insertion depth into the earhole, and the
disadvantage that the probe goes excessively deep into the earhole
to hurt the deep portion of the ear.
[0248] Thus, the thermometry can be performed under more proper
conditions with neither the come-out nor the positional
displacement of the probe cover so that the thermometric accuracy
can be improved to enhance the safety.
[0249] According to the thermometer of the invention, moreover, the
thermometer is neither deflected for the thermometry even if the
thermometric switch is operated, nor is changed the direction or
depth of insertion of the probe into the earhole, so that a highly
reliable thermometry can be achieved without any dispersion of the
metered value.
[0250] Since the position or direction of the thermometer can be
fixed by the raised portion, moreover, the probe is neither moved
during the thermometry, nor is fluctuated the direction or depth of
insertion of the probe according to each operation of the
thermometric switch so that a highly accurate metered value can be
achieved. During the thermometry, moreover, the power switch is not
erroneously operated.
[0251] According to the thermometer of the invention, moreover, it
is possible to prevent or suppress the beep sound (information
sound) such as the buzzer sound from reaching the earhole of the
subject to discomfort the subject.
[0252] Moreover, the beep sound (information sound) such as the
buzzer sound can be kept sufficient for the subject so that the
information function is not deteriorated.
[0253] According to the thermometer of the invention, moreover, the
operator or subject can be effectively informed of the standby
state. Since the number of segments to be lighted or flashed
changes with the lapse of time, the time lapse can be easily
grasped to judge the remaining time period easily. During the
standby time, therefore, it is possible to eliminate or lighten the
uncomfortableness or the pain of standby.
[0254] When the body temperature of the infant or child is to be
metered, moreover, it is enabled to be attracted and well-behaved
by the display. In the quiet state, therefore, the thermometry can
be made smoothly to prevent the drop, as might otherwise be caused
by the insufficient stability in the insertion of the probe, in the
thermometric accuracy.
[0255] According to the invention, moreover, the metering accuracy
of the body temperature can be improved by making a correction
according to the change in the environmental temperature.
[0256] The metering accuracy of the body temperature can be
enhanced by the construction, in which the correction is determined
according to the temperature gradient determined on the basis of
the metered value of the temperature metering means, the
construction, in which the correction is reduced substantially to 0
(with no substantial correction) when the change in the
environmental temperature is small, or the construction in which
the correction is given the upper limit and/or the lower limit.
[0257] Additional advantages and modifications will readily occur
to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its
broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and
representative embodiments shown and described herein. Accordingly,
various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit
or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the
appended claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *