U.S. patent application number 15/010792 was filed with the patent office on 2016-12-29 for system and method for automatic measurement and recording.
The applicant listed for this patent is Squadle, Inc.. Invention is credited to William K. Chen, Le Zhang.
Application Number | 20160377457 15/010792 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 57602035 |
Filed Date | 2016-12-29 |
![](/patent/app/20160377457/US20160377457A1-20161229-D00000.png)
![](/patent/app/20160377457/US20160377457A1-20161229-D00001.png)
![](/patent/app/20160377457/US20160377457A1-20161229-D00002.png)
![](/patent/app/20160377457/US20160377457A1-20161229-D00003.png)
![](/patent/app/20160377457/US20160377457A1-20161229-D00004.png)
![](/patent/app/20160377457/US20160377457A1-20161229-D00005.png)
![](/patent/app/20160377457/US20160377457A1-20161229-D00006.png)
![](/patent/app/20160377457/US20160377457A1-20161229-D00007.png)
![](/patent/app/20160377457/US20160377457A1-20161229-D00008.png)
United States Patent
Application |
20160377457 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Zhang; Le ; et al. |
December 29, 2016 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATIC MEASUREMENT AND RECORDING
Abstract
A method and apparatus for automatically measuring and storing a
various measured values of an item, or a sequence of measured
values of one or more item(s) suitable for single-handed use by a
user. In particular, the present invention relates to a mobile
computing device with one or more sensors for determining when to
measure and record a particular value of one or more items. The
mobile computing device may automatically measure the values based
on sensing a change in the temperature value or through using
proximity as detected by one or more onboard sensors. Additionally,
the mobile computing device may automatically measure the values
based on coming within range of an external proximity device. In
response to automatically measuring the values, the measured values
are stored along with additional information for record keeping
purposes.
Inventors: |
Zhang; Le; (Allston, MA)
; Chen; William K.; (Medford, MA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Squadle, Inc. |
Cambridge |
MA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
57602035 |
Appl. No.: |
15/010792 |
Filed: |
January 29, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62110065 |
Jan 30, 2015 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
702/130 ;
702/189 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01K 2207/04 20130101;
G01D 9/32 20130101; G01K 7/22 20130101; G01K 7/02 20130101; G08C
17/02 20130101; G01K 1/022 20130101; G01N 33/02 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G01D 9/32 20060101
G01D009/32; G01K 7/02 20060101 G01K007/02; G08C 17/02 20060101
G08C017/02; G01N 33/02 20060101 G01N033/02 |
Claims
1. A method of automatically measuring and recording a sample
physical measurement value of a target sample using a probe device,
the method comprising: receiving, by the probe device, data that
indicates a sample type to be measured; accessing, by the probe
device, data indicating a predetermined range of sample physical
measurement values corresponding to the sample type; detecting, by
the probe device, an ambient measurement value within a
predetermined range of ambient measurement values that is different
from the predetermined range of sample physical measurement values;
after detecting the ambient measurement value, detecting, by the
probe device, a change in the measurement value away from the
ambient measurement value; after detecting a change in the
measurement value away from the ambient measurement value,
determining, by the probe device, that a steady state measurement
value has been achieved within the predetermined range of sample
physical measurement values; and automatically recording, by the
probe device, the steady state measurement value based on
determining that the steady state measurement value has been
achieved within the predetermined range of sample physical
measurement values.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: accessing, by the
probe device, data indicating multiple different sample types; and
providing, by the probe device, a user interface indicating the
multiple different sample types, the respective sample types each
having a corresponding predetermined range of physical measurement
values; wherein receiving data that indicates a sample type to be
measured comprises receiving, by the probe device, user input that
selects a sample type from among the multiple sample types
indicated by the user interface.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein accessing the data indicating
multiple different sample types comprises accessing data indicating
multiple different food items or food preparation spaces, wherein
each of the different food items or food preparation spaces has a
corresponding range of sample physical measurement values.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein accessing the data indicating the
predetermined range of sample physical measurement values
corresponding to the sample type comprises accessing, by the probe
device, data indicating a temperature range corresponding to a
selected food item or food preparation space.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein detecting the change in the
measurement value comprises: accessing, by the probe device, data
indicating a threshold amount corresponding to the physical
measurement value; after detecting the ambient measurement value,
detecting, by the probe device, a second measurement value in
response to placement of a sensor coupled to the probe device in
the target sample; and determining, by the probe device, that the
second measurement value differs from the ambient measurement value
by at least the threshold amount.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein detecting the change in the
measurement value comprises: accessing, by the probe device, data
indicating the predetermined range of ambient measurement values;
after detecting the ambient measurement value, detecting, by the
probe device, a second measurement value that is outside the
predetermined range of ambient measurement values; and determining,
by the probe device, that the second measurement value is outside
the predetermined range of ambient measurement values.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the sample physical measurement
value is a measure of a characteristic selected from the group
consisting of temperature, pH, color, density, specific gravity,
humidity, and level of total polar materials (TPM).
8. The method of claim 1, wherein automatically recording the
steady state measurement value is performed without receiving user
input instructing the steady state measurement to be made and
without receiving user input instructing recording of the steady
state measurement value.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the probe device is a mobile
phone in communication with a sensor.
10. The method of claim 1, further comprising: in response to
detecting the change in the measurement value away from the ambient
measurement value, providing, by the probe device, output
indicating that a measurement cycle to acquire a steady state
measurement value has been initiated; and in response to
determining that a steady state measurement value has been achieved
within the predetermined range of sample physical measurement
values, providing, by the probe device, output indicating that the
measurement cycle has been completed.
11. The method of claim 1, wherein automatically recording the
steady state measurement value comprises recording, by the probe
device, a time that the steady state measurement was detected, an
identifier for the sample type, a geographic location where the
steady state measurement value was detected, or a user identifier
for a user taking the steady state measurement.
12. The method of claim 1, further comprising: outputting, by the
probe device, (i) an ordered checklist indicating a plurality of
measurements to be performed using the probe device, (ii) a
duration of a measurement cycle for acquiring the steady state
measurement value, or (iii) a time when a subsequent measurement is
scheduled to be performed.
13. The method of claim 1, further comprising: determining, by the
probe device, that the probe device is within a predetermined level
of proximity to the target sample; and initiating, by the probe
device, a measurement cycle to obtain the steady state measurement
value in response to determining that the probe device is within
the predetermined level of proximity to the target sample.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein determining that the probe
device is within the predetermined level of proximity comprises:
receiving, by the probe device, sensor data indicating proximity of
the probe device to the target sample or a transmission from a
device in proximity to the target sample; and determining, by the
probe device, that that the probe device has been inserted into a
sample item or space to a predetermined depth of a sample item or
space of the target sample based on the received sensor data or
received transmission.
15. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving data that indicates
the sample type to be measured comprises: receiving, by the probe
device, an indication of the sample type from a near field
communication tag, an optical machine-readable code, a wireless
beacon, or a connected appliance; and wherein the method further
comprises initiating, by the probe device, a measurement cycle to
obtain the steady state measurement value in response to receiving
the indication of the sample type.
16-20. (canceled)
21. A method of automatically measuring and recording a sample
physical measurement value of a target sample using a probe device,
the method comprising: receiving, by the probe device, data that
indicates a sample type of a target sample to be measured; in
response to receiving the data that indicates the sample type of
the target sample, accessing, by the probe device, data indicating
a predetermined range of sample temperature values corresponding to
the sample type; obtaining, by the probe device, an ambient
temperature value based on data from a temperature sensor, the
ambient temperature value indicating a temperature in environment
of the target sample at a location that is outside the target
sample; determining that the ambient temperature value is within a
predetermined range of ambient temperature values that is different
from the predetermined range of sample temperature values; in
response to determining that the ambient temperature value is
within the predetermined range of ambient temperature values,
detecting, by the probe device, a change in temperature measured by
the probe device away from the ambient temperature value; after
detecting a change in the measured temperature away from the
ambient temperature value, determining, by the probe device, that a
steady state temperature value has been achieved within the
predetermined range of sample temperature values; and automatically
recording, by the probe device, the steady state temperature value
based on determining that the steady state temperature value has
been achieved within the predetermined range of sample temperature
values.
22. The method of claim 21, wherein the probe device stores data
indicating a plurality of different sample types that each have a
different predetermined range of sample temperature values; wherein
receiving the data that indicates the sample type of the target
sample to be measured comprises receiving, by the probe device,
data that indicates a selection of one of the plurality of
different sample types by a user of the probe device; and wherein
accessing the data indicating the predetermined range of sample
temperature values corresponding to the sample type comprises
identifying, by the probe device, the predetermine range of sample
temperature values for the sample type selected by the user of the
probe device.
23. The method of claim 21, further comprising: determining, by the
probe device, that the probe device is within a predetermined level
of proximity to the target sample based on output of a proximity
sensor; and initiating, by the probe device, a measurement cycle to
obtain the steady state temperature value in response to
determining that the probe device is within the predetermined level
of proximity to the target sample.
24. The method of claim 21, wherein automatically recording the
steady state temperature value comprises: automatically
transmitting, by the probe device, the steady state temperature
value to a server system over a network based on determining that
the steady state temperature value has been achieved within the
predetermined range of sample temperature values.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority from and the benefit of
U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/110,065, filed Jan. 30,
2015, the entire contents of which is incorporated by reference
herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This document relates to measuring and storing measured
values of an item or space, or a sequence of measured values of one
or more item(s) or space(s) suitable for single-handed use by a
user. In particular, the present invention relates to repeated
automatic measuring and recording measurements of one or more items
or spaces, for example, in a food service environment.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Generally, employees of restaurants routinely take
measurements of different items and spaces utilized in operating
the restaurant. For example, the temperature readings of a number
of cooked and/or raw food items are routinely measured to ensure
that the food is being stored at a safe and desired temperature.
The temperature readings are taken in accordance with the food
safety regulations established by the U S. Food and Drug
Association (FDA) or other regulations established by the
restaurant for health and liability reasons. Typically the
temperature readings must be done on a regular basis throughout the
day, and the temperatures must be logged so that they can be viewed
later. Most commonly, this is done using a thermometer, writing
utensil, and paper logbook, causing the employee to have to juggle
at least three instruments plus the food item that needs to be
tested. More tech savvy restaurants have adopted digital logging
systems, consisting of a tablet or a computer, paired with a
wirelessly tethered thermometer. However, this method causes the
employee to have to juggle two instruments plus the food to
complete the temperature readings. Accordingly, the traditional
measuring and logging used in the restaurant industry is prone to
errors and inconsistency, particularly for quick service
restaurants, which have many repetitive temperature or other
measurement-taking tasks.
[0004] Further, measurement devices in the food industry are
generally not able to determine when to take a measurement, what
type of sample is being measured, or whether a measurement is
within a valid or appropriate range for the sample being measured.
As a result, many prior devices may fail to acquire measurements at
appropriate times, produce inaccurate measurements or measure
incorrect parameters, produce incorrect data or data that is not
appropriate for the sample being measured, or may fail to record or
may inaccurately record measured values.
SUMMARY
[0005] There is a need for a fast reliable measuring and recording
system and method in the food industry. The present invention is
directed toward further solutions to address this need, in addition
to having other desirable characteristics. Specifically, the
invention consists of a probe device that is the sole instrument
required to take the necessary measurements of items and spaces
related to restaurant operation, the probe device being entirely
operable with one hand. In addition, the present invention includes
a method to streamline the process such that the probe device can
automatically sense when to take the desired measurement, so that
no human input is required in real time to trigger the recording of
the desired measurement.
[0006] As noted above, in general, measurement devices in the food
industry are not able to determine when to take a measurement, what
type of sample is being measured, or whether a measurement is
within a valid or appropriate range for the sample being measured.
As a result, many prior devices may produce inaccurate data or
produce data that is not recorded or is inaccurately recorded. As
discussed below, in some implementations, a device can storing data
corresponding to different sample types, allowing the device to
determine different. In some implementations, a device can
automatically determine when to initiate a measurement cycle, for
example, in response to detecting changes in a measured
characteristic or in response to detecting a position or proximity
to a target sample. In some implementations, a device can determine
when an appropriate measurement value has been acquired and
automatically record the value, for example, when the device
determines a steady state value within a predetermined range is
detected.
[0007] In one general aspect, a method includes: receiving, by the
probe device, data that indicates a sample type to be measured;
accessing, by the probe device, data indicating a predetermined
range of sample physical measurement values corresponding to the
selected sample type; detecting, by the probe device, an ambient
measurement value within a predetermined range of ambient
measurement values that is different from the predetermined range
of sample physical measurement values; after detecting the ambient
measurement value, detecting, by the probe device, a change in the
measurement value away from the ambient measurement value; after
detecting a change in the measurement value away from the ambient
measurement value, determining, by the probe device, that a steady
state measurement value has been achieved within the predetermined
range of sample physical measurement values; and automatically
recording, by the probe device, the steady state measurement value
based on determining that the steady state measurement value has
been achieved within the predetermined range of sample physical
measurement values.
[0008] Implementations may include one or more of the following
features. For example, the method may include accessing, by the
probe device, data indicating multiple different sample types; and
providing, by the probe device, a user interface indicating the
multiple different sample types, the respective sample types each
having a corresponding predetermined range of physical measurement
values. Receiving data that indicates a sample type to be measured
can include receiving user input that selects a sample type from
among the multiple sample types indicated by the user interface.
Accessing the data indicating multiple different sample types can
include accessing data indicating multiple different food items or
food preparation spaces, wherein each of the different food items
or food preparation spaces has a corresponding range of sample
physical measurement values. Accessing the data indicating the
predetermined range of sample physical measurement values
corresponding to the selected sample type can include accessing
data indicating a temperature range corresponding to a selected
food item or food preparation space. Detecting the change in the
measurement value can include: accessing, by the probe device, data
indicating a threshold amount corresponding to the physical
measurement value; after detecting the ambient measurement value,
detecting a second measurement value in response to placement of a
sensor coupled to the probe device in the target sample; and
determining that the second measurement value differs from the
ambient measurement value by at least the threshold amount.
[0009] Implementations may include one or more of the following
features. For example, detecting the change in the measurement
value can include: accessing, by the probe device, data indicating
the predetermined range of ambient measurement values; after
detecting the ambient measurement value, detecting a second
measurement value that is outside the predetermined range of
ambient measurement values; and determining that the second
measurement value is outside the predetermined range of ambient
measurement values. The sample physical measurement value is a
measure of a characteristic selected from the group consisting of
temperature, pH, color, density, specific gravity, humidity, and
level of total polar materials (TPM). Automatically recording the
steady state measurement value is performed without receiving user
input instructing the steady state measurement to be made and
without receiving user input instructing recording of the steady
state measurement value. In some implementations, the probe device
is a mobile phone in communication with a sensor. The method can
include, in response to detecting the change in the measurement
value away from the ambient measurement value, providing, by the
probe device, output indicating that a measurement cycle to acquire
a steady state measurement value has been initiated; and in
response to determining that a steady state measurement value has
been achieved within the predetermined range of sample physical
measurement values, providing, by the probe device, output
indicating that the measurement cycle has been completed.
[0010] Implementations may include one or more of the following
features. For example, automatically recording the steady state
measurement value can include recording a time that the steady
state measurement was detected, an identifier for the sample type,
a geographic location where the steady state measurement value was
detected, or a user identifier for a user taking the steady state
measurement. The method may include outputting, by the probe
device, (i) an ordered checklist indicating a plurality of
measurements to be performed using the probe device, (ii) a
duration of a measurement cycle for acquiring the steady state
measurement value, or (iii) a time when a subsequent measurement is
scheduled to be performed. The method may include determining, by
the probe device, that the probe device is within a predetermined
level of proximity to the target sample; and initiating a
measurement cycle to obtain the steady state measurement value in
response to determining that the probe device is within the
predetermined level of proximity to the target sample. Determining
that the probe device is within the predetermined level of
proximity can include: receiving, by the probe device, sensor data
indicating proximity of the probe device to the target sample or a
transmission from a device in proximity to the target sample; and
determining, by the probe device, that that the probe device has
been inserted into a sample item or space to a predetermined depth
of a sample item or space of the target sample based on the
received sensor data or received transmission. Receiving data that
indicates the sample type to be measured can include: receiving, by
the probe device, an indication of the sample type from a near
field communication tag, an optical machine-readable code, a
wireless beacon, or a connected appliance. The method can include
initiating a measurement cycle to obtain the steady state
measurement value in response to receiving the indication of the
sample type.
[0011] Implementations may include one or more of the following
features. For example, automatically recording the steady state
measurement value can include recording the steady state
measurement value locally at the probe device. Automatically
recording the steady state measurement value can include
transmitting the steady state measurement value over a network to a
server system for storage by the server system. A measurement cycle
comprising a series of multiple measurements of a characteristic of
the target sample can be initiated by the probe device in response
to detecting the change from the ambient measurement value or
determining that the probe device or an associated sensor is in
proximity to the target sample. The measurement cycle can have a
predetermined duration and include multiple measurements taken at a
predetermined interval. The probe device may determine that a level
of variation among the measurement values acquired during the
measurement cycle exceeds a predetermined threshold, and initiate a
second measurement cycle and/or provide an alert indicating that a
steady state measurement value is not achieved in response. The
alert from the probe device may provide an output instructing a
user to continue a measurement for an indicated period of time. The
probe device may determine that a steady state measurement value is
not within the predetermined range of values corresponding to the
sample type of the target sample. In response, the probe device may
initiate another measurement cycle and/or provide an alert
indicating that the steady state measurement value is outside the
predetermined range values corresponding to the sample type of the
target sample. The probe device may indicate the steady state
measurement value, the predetermined range, and/or a difference
between the steady state measurement value and the predetermined
range. The probe device may provide an output indicating a
scheduled measurement to be acquired. The probe device may be in
communication with a thermocouple sensor, and the thermocouple
sensor may provide data indicating the measurement values. The
thermocouple sensor may be integrated into the computing device.
The thermocouple sensor may be included in a peripheral device that
is connected to the computing device, for example, through a
wireless or wired connection. The probe device or a probe element
may comprise hydrophobic elements.
[0012] Other embodiments of this and other aspects include
corresponding systems, apparatus, and computer programs, configured
to perform the actions of the methods, encoded on machine-readable
storage devices. A system of one or more computers can be so
configured by virtue of software, firmware, hardware, or a
combination of them installed on the system that in operation cause
the system to perform the actions. One or more computer programs
can be so configured by virtue having instructions that, when
executed by data processing apparatus, cause the apparatus to
perform the actions.
[0013] In another general aspect, a system for automatically
measuring and recording a sample physical measurement value of a
target sample is provided. The system may include a mobile probe
device comprising a sensor in communication with a computing
hardware device. The computing hardware device includes a selector
indicating a sample type, the sample type having a predetermined
range of sample physical measurement values. The computing hardware
device is configured to determine when the sensor has acquired a
steady state measurement value within the predetermined range of
sample physical measurement values. In response to the
determination, the computing hardware device is configured to
automatically record the steady state measurement value.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] These and other characteristics of the present invention
will be more fully understood by reference to the following
detailed description in conjunction with the attached drawings.
[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a system for obtaining a sample physical
measurement value of a target sample using a probe device in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] FIGS. 2A and 2B are illustrative flowcharts depicting a
method for measuring and recording temperature of one or more
items, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 3 is an illustrative flowchart depicting a method for
measuring and recording a temperature of one or more items or
spaces, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0018] FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C are illustrative flowcharts depicting
example methods for measuring and recording a temperature of one or
more items or spaces, in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0019] FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic illustration of a high level
architecture for implementing processes in accordance with aspects
of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0020] An illustrative embodiment of the present invention relates
to a system suitable for automatically measuring and recording a
value of one or more items or spaces. In particular, the present
invention relates to a probe device configured as a computing
hardware device in communication with one or more sensors which is
capable of determining when to measure and record a particular
value of one or more items or spaces. Advantageously, the present
invention enables the measurement process to be performed
single-handedly, such that a user is not required to juggle
multiple items to obtain a measurement. For example, a user may
automatically take and record a temperature of one or more food
items during their preparation. Accordingly, the food items may be
prepared without the danger of contamination due to the handling of
multiple objects typically used to perform the measurements and
recordings. Additionally, the present invention eliminates the
potential of human error when recording the measured values because
the singlehanded device automatically measures and records the
value without requiring manipulation of the device as by a user as
the measurement is taken. Particular embodiments of the invention
have been described. Other embodiments are within the scope of the
following claims. For example, the steps recited in the claims can
be performed in a different order and still achieve desirable
results.
[0021] A system 10 according to the present invention includes a
probe device 12 that includes a computing hardware device 14 in
communication with a sensor 16. The probe device 12 is configured
to carry out the steps of measuring and recording values in
accordance with the present invention. Specifically, the probe
device 12 is in communication with one or more sensor(s) 16. The
probe device 12 is configured to determine when to take a measured
value of an item or space, measure that value to determine when a
steady state value is achieved, and subsequently record the steady
state measured value without receiving or requiring instructions
from a user operating the probe device 12. The automatic
determination of when to take a measurement may include determining
when the probe device 12 has been inserted into an item, or a
space, to be measured. The determination of the insertion of the
probe device 12 into an item or space is performed automatically,
such that a user's instructions to take a measurement are not
needed. The determination of when a measurement value should be
taken may be performed by detecting when a change of measurement
value(s) at the sensor 16 has occurred, triggering instructions to
take the measurement. Additionally, the use of proximity sensors 18
may be implemented such that once the probe device 12 comes within
range of one of the proximity sensors 18, instructions to take the
measurement value(s) are triggered. As would be appreciated by one
of skill in the art, these methods may be used in exclusivity or in
combination. Once the measurement value is taken and a steady state
of that measured value has been determined, the measured value may
be automatically recorded in a format useful to the user (e.g.,
recorded in a logging application). Accordingly, the present
invention enables the user to use a single hand to insert a probe
into an item to automatically take and record a measured value of
that item, while requiring no additional action by the user.
[0022] FIGS. 1 through 5, wherein like parts are designated by like
reference numerals throughout, illustrate an example embodiment or
embodiments of automatically measuring and recording temperature(s)
of one or more items, according to the present invention. Although
the present invention will be described with reference to the
example embodiment or embodiments illustrated in the figures, it
should be understood that many alternative forms can embody the
present invention. One of skill in the mi will additionally
appreciate different ways to alter the parameters of the
embodiment(s) disclosed, such as the size, shape, or type of
elements or materials, in a manner still in keeping with the spirit
and scope of the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 1 depicts a high level architecture of implementing
processes in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Specifically, FIG. 1 depicts the system 10 for automatically
measuring and recording a sample physical measurement value of a
target sample 20 using the probe device 12. The probe device 12
includes computing hardware device 14, the computing hardware
device 14 in communication with at least one sensor 16. The
computing hardware device 14 may be a general purpose computer or a
specialized computer system configured to automatically measure and
record a temperature of one or more items. As would be appreciated
by one of skill in the art, the computing hardware device 14 may
include a single computing device, a collection of computing
devices in a network computing system, a cloud computing
infrastructure, or a combination thereof. For example, the
computing hardware device 14 may be a mobile computing device, such
as a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop, personal digital assistant
(PDA), smartwatch, or other mobile computing device. In some
implementations, the computing hardware device 14 is a handheld
device having a processor and a communications interface for
communicating with at least one sensor. The computing hardware
device 14 may include one or more communication ports 22. As would
be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the communication port
22 may be configured to input, output, and/or store data from
another computing device. For example, the communication port 22
may include a Universal Serial Bus (USB), a mini USB, a micro USB,
docking port, etc.
[0024] Additionally, the computing hardware device 14 may include
wired or wireless a communication module 24 configured to
communicate with a local or cloud server. For example, the
communication module 24 may include an antenna to enable wireless
communications (e.g., radio frequency (RF), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi,
etc.). In accordance with an example embodiment of the present
invention, the computing hardware device 14 may be configured to
use the communication module 24 to establish a connection and
communicate over telecommunication network(s). As would be
appreciated by one of skill in the art, the telecommunication
network(s) may include any combination of known networks. For
example, the telecommunication network(s) may be combination of a
mobile network, WAN, LAN, or other type of network. The
telecommunication network(s) may be used to exchange data between
the computing hardware device 14 and other computing devices in
accordance with embodiments of the present invention. Similarly,
the communication port 22 may be used to exchange data with another
computing device over a wired connection. In accordance with an
example embodiment, the computing hardware device 14 may use the
communication module 24 and/or telecommunication network(s) to
exchange data with a storage device 26. As would be appreciated by
one of skill in the art, the storage device 26 may be a local
storage device resident on the probe device 12 or may be a remote
storage device 26. For example, the computing hardware device 14
may be connected to a local disk drive, a remote database facility,
a virtual database, or a cloud computing storage environment. As
one of skill in the art will appreciate, although reference is made
herein to a single storage device 26, the storage device 26 may be
implemented across multiple logically connected different storage
devices 26, which can be locally or remotely coupled. Similarly,
the storage device 26 may include any combination of computing
devices configured to store and organize a collection of data.
[0025] Continuing with FIG. 1, the computing hardware device 14 may
communicate with a display module 28 on the probe device 12 to
provide a graphical user interface (GUI) to display information to
the user about a current item of interest and potential metadata
about the item of interest (e.g., an acceptable temperature
ranges). As would be appreciated by one of skill in the alt, the
display module 28 may be integrated on a peripheral device
including the one or more sensors 16 or presented on the computing
hardware device 14. Advantageously, the display module 28 may al so
be configured to receive input from the user. For example, the
display module 28 may be a capacitive and/or resistive touchscreen.
As would be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the user may
also send input to the computing hardware device 14 through the use
of mechanical, resistive, and/or capacitive buttons. In accordance
with an example embodiment of the present invention, the one or
more sensors 16 may include a combination of hydrophobic elements
or coatings and Ultraviolet (UV) light or antimicrobials. For
example, the hydrophobic elements or coatings may be included
throughout the body of the one or more sensors 16 and/or the probe
device 12 or select portions thereof. Accordingly, the use of
hydrophobic and UV/antimicrobial environment elements minimize or
remove the need for a user to clean the device with a wipe after
each use.
[0026] In operation, the probe device 12 may be used to
automatically determine when to collect measured data, measure the
data, and record the measured data without receiving or requiring
real time instructions from a user. Furthermore, the probe device
12 of the present invention may utilize any combination of
measurement instruments known in the art as the one or more sensors
16 to measure various types of data for one or more sample items.
As would be appreciated by one of skill in the ail, the probe
device 12 may include the one or more sensors 16 in the form of
instruments configured to measure temperature, pH, color, density,
specific gravity, humidity, a level of total polar materials (TPM),
etc. Once a measurement has been taken by the one or more sensors
16 of the probe device 12, the corresponding measured data may be
stored (e.g., on the storage device 26) for record keeping
purposes. For example, the probe device 12 may include a
thermometer as the one or more sensors 16 for measuring the
temperature of various food items and/or food preparation items.
Advantageously, the probe device 12 may be used with a single hand
of a user and automatically determines when to take a measurement,
such that no human interaction is required to trigger the measuring
and/or recording of the measured data (e.g., such as temperature,
or the like) for the one or more target sample items or spaces. For
example, the computing hardware device 14 automatically detects
when the one or more sensors 16 of the probe device 12 have been
inserted into a sample item or space for measurement and then
triggers instructions for measurements to be taken by the probe
device 12 and subsequently recorded in the storage device 26. As
would be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the measured data
may be stored locally on the probe device 12, on a centralized
computing system (e.g., a restaurant management system), and/or on
a remote database (e.g., storage device 26). In accordance with an
example embodiment, the centralized computing system may be a
computing system located on the same shared secure network as the
probe device 12 and may be configured to manage a plurality of the
probe devices 12 on the shared network. For example, the measured
data may be transmitted to and stored on a tablet device running
restaurant management software and is connected to the same local
area network (LAN) as the probe device 12.
[0027] FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 3 show exemplary flow charts depicting
implementation of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 2A
depicts an exemplary flow chart showing the operation of the probe
device 12, as discussed with respect to FIG. 1. In particular, FIG.
2A depicts an example embodiment of the present invention in which
the probe device 12 may automatically determine when to measure and
record the measured values of a sample item or space. For example,
the measured values may be taken and recorded using the combination
of the computing hardware device 14 and the one or more sensors 16,
as discussed with respect to FIG. 1.
[0028] At step 202, the automatic measuring performed by the probe
device 12 may be initiated by receiving data that indicates a
sample type. In accordance with an example embodiment of the
present invention, the sample type data may be received through an
indication from a user selecting sample items or spaces desired to
be measured. As would be appreciated by one of skill in the art, a
plurality of sample types may be presented to the user for
selection from a collection of sample types stored in the storage
device 26 or implemented by the computing hardware device 14. In
accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, the
sample type indication may be received according to a predetermined
list of sample types to be measured from the storage device 26. As
would be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the list may
indicate a set or sequence of different sample types to measure,
and the user may follow the predetermined list of sample types when
using the probe device 12. For example, the predetermined sample
types may be presented to the user in as an ordered checklist. In
accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, the
sample type may be received through receiving the sample type
through an input at the computing hardware device (e.g., using the
communication port 22 and/or the communication module 24). For
example, the computing hardware device 14 may receive the sample
type from a Near Field Communication (NFC) tag (e.g., an RFID tag)
or by scanning an optical machine-readable code such as a
two-dimensional or three dimensional barcode (e.g., barcode or
Quick Reference (QR) code), etc. In accordance with an example
embodiment of the present invention, the sample types may include
various food items and food preparation items, such as poultry or
the like, or may include spaces, such as oven or refrigerator
temperatures or the like. In accordance with an example embodiment
of the present invention, each of the sample types may have a
corresponding predetermined range of the sample type's physical
measurement values. For example, a predetermined range for poultry
may be 165-170 degrees Fahrenheit. The ranges of measurement values
can be different for each of multiple sample types. For example, a
reference temperature threshold or range for chicken may be
different from the reference temperature threshold or range for
beef. The probe device may store data that indicates the range for
each sample type, or may obtain the information from a server
system through communication over a network.
[0029] At step 204, the probe device 12 may automatically detect an
ambient measurement value. For example, the probe device 12 may
include an internal thermistor for taking an ambient temperature.
As would be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the thermistor
may be used in conjunction with a thermocouple for measuring a
temperature of an item accurately. For example, the computing
hardware device 14 may use the measured ambient temperature and a
polynomial lookup table (e.g., a NIST) to determine a measured
temperature of a sample item. As would be appreciated by one of
skill in the art, the temperature lookup may be performed by
software, hardware, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the
ambient measurement value may be determined by periodically
measuring the ambient value of the space. As would be appreciated
by one of skill in the art, the periodic measuring may be adjusted
periodically in order to conserve battery life of the computing
hardware device 14, one or more sensors 16, and/or the probe device
12. In accordance with an example embodiment of the present
invention, the ambient measurement value may be determined by
measuring the ambient value of a space upon initiating the one or
more sensors 16, of the probe device 12.
[0030] At step 206, a user may physically insert the probe device
12, or at least the one or more sensors 16 into the selected target
sample item or space. For example, the user may insert the
temperature sensor (e.g., thermocouple) of the probe device 12 into
a sample food item (e.g., poultry). As would be appreciated by one
of skill in the art, the probe device 12, or the at least one or
more sensors 16 may be configured to take a measurement without
physically inserting the sensors 16 into the sample item or space.
For example, a temperature may be taken of an item or space using
an infrared (IR) or laser temperature sensor device. Additionally,
the probe device 12 may display a measurement timer to the user
instructing the user when the next measurement is going to be
taken. For example, the probe device 12 may reflect that the next
sample type is poultry and that the temperature will be taken in 15
seconds, to inform the user that the prober device or the one or
more sensors 16 should be inserted (or aimed at if wireless
temperature sensors are being used) into the poultry for the
measurement.
[0031] At step 208, the probe device 12 may detect a change in a
measurement value and then detect a steady state measurement value
within a predetermined range of the received sample type (e.g.,
selected in step 202). For example, the probe device 12 may
determine that the measurement value changed from the measured
ambient temperature to a lessor or greater temperature (e.g., upon
insertion into an item or space). The probe device 12 may measure
an ambient temperature value of the space is 70 degrees Fahrenheit
and upon insertion of the one or more sensors 16 into a sample item
(e.g., poultry) detects that the measured temperature increased to
165 degrees Fahrenheit. The probe device 12 may also determine that
the greater temperature is unchanging over a period of time (e.g.,
steady state) and is within a given threshold, such that the
greater temperature falls within the predetermined range of the
selected sample type (e.g., 165-170 degrees Fahrenheit for
poultry). Similarly, as discussed with respect to the measured
ambient value, the measured values of the sample items may be
performed periodically. In accordance with an example embodiment of
the present invention, a signal processing algorithm (e.g., as
depicted in FIG. 2B) may be used to determine a change in the
measured value comprising the difference between the ambient
measurement value of a space and the measured value of the sample
type after the insertion of the probe device 12. As would be
appreciated by one of skill in the art, the signal processing
algorithm may factor in the predetermined value range for a
particular sample type being measured when determining the
difference in the measured ambient value and the measured value of
the sample item. For example, when the sample type is a
refrigerated space and the predetermined temperature range for the
space is less than a predefined ambient temperature range, the
change in measurement value may be detected when the measurement
value decreases below the ambient temperature range, or at least a
predetermined threshold below the ambient temperature value
detected.
[0032] At step 210, in response to determining a steady state
measurement value falling within the predetermined range of the
selected sample type (step 208), the probe device 12 may
automatically record the steady state measurement value. For
example, the steady state measurement value is recorded in the
storage device 26 for the selected sample type (e.g., poultry). As
would be appreciated by one of skill in the art, additional data
and/or metadata may also be stored in the storage device 26. For
example, the probe device 12 may also record a time at which the
temperature was taken, the number and iteration of that particular
sample type that has been taken, an employee identifier of the user
taking the measurements, etc. Accordingly, any necessary restaurant
logging data may be automatically measured and recorded in the
storage device 26.
[0033] FIG. 2B depicts an example embodiment of the signal
processing algorithm used in accordance with the present invention,
(e.g., as described with respect to step 208 of FIG. 2A). In
particular, the signal processing algorithm is depicted by the
process 250 shown in FIG. 2B. At step 252, the signal processing
algorithm is initiated upon reception of a next sample type item
(e.g., a sample type as discussed with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2A).
As would be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the sample type
may be received automatically from a predetermined list or from an
input from a user, as discussed with respect to step 202 of FIG.
2A. At step 254, a measurement value is taken of the sample type
(e.g., a sample item or a space). As would be appreciated by one of
skill in the art, the measurement value is taken by the one or more
sensors 16. At step 256, a determination is made (e.g., by the
computing hardware device 14) as to whether the measured value
falls within a predetermined range of the received sample type
(e.g., as discussed with respect to step 208 of FIG. 2A). For
example, if the received sample type is poultry, and the
predetermined range for poultry is 165-170 degrees Fahrenheit, then
the computing hardware device 14 determines whether the measurement
value falls within the range of 165-170 degrees Fahrenheit. If the
measurement value falls within the predetermined range for the
received sample type then the process advances to step 258.
Otherwise, the process returns to step 254, and the measurement is
taken again. In accordance with an example embodiment of the
present invention, if the measurement value does not fall within
the predetermined range, in addition to returning to step 254, an
alert may be triggered and displayed to a user of the probe device
12. For example, the alert may convey to the user that the measured
value is not within a predetermined range for that sample type and
that the probe device 12 should stay inserted within the sample
item until a measurement within the predetermined range is
achieved.
[0034] At step 258, similarly to step 254, a measurement value is
taken of the sample type. For the first iteration of step 260, the
measurement values from steps 254 and 258 are compared to determine
a rate of change of the measurements values (e.g., M (where M
represents the measured value)). As would be appreciated by one of
skill in the art, subsequent determinations of the rate of change
(from the initial change of temperature) will compare the most
recent sample measurement values (e.g., the last two measured
values). For example, if the measured value from step 254 is 165
degrees Fahrenheit and the measured value from step 258 is 166
degrees Fahrenheit, then the rate of change is 1 degree per unit
time between measurement samples. As would be appreciated by one of
skill in the art, the measurements of values in steps 254 and 258
are may be made over a periodic basis, for example, at a
predetermined interval. For example, the measurements may be taken
about 3 seconds apart. For example, actions such as detecting
proximity to a target sample (or an associated wireless beacon,
appliance, or other device) can trigger the initiation of a
measurement cycle. For example, a measurement cycle may include a
series of 5 measurements taken 3 seconds apart. At the end of the
measurement cycle the probe device determines whether to record the
measurement (e.g., if a steady state value within the appropriate
range for the sample type was achieved), to alert the user (e.g.,
if a steady state value outside the appropriate range was
achieved), or to continue measurement by initiating a new
measurement cycle (e.g., if variation between the measurements
exceeded a threshold such that a steady state measurement value was
not obtained).
[0035] At step 262, a determination is made (e.g., by computing
hardware device 14) as to whether the rate of change is less than
(e.g., <) a predetermined threshold. Alternatively, as would be
appreciated by one of skill in the art, the computing hardware
device 14 may also determine whether the rate of change exceeds
and/or is equal to the threshold value. In accordance with an
example embodiment of the present invention, the determination may
be made by comparing the rate of change of the measurement values
(e.g., .about.M) to a threshold variable X. The threshold variable
X may represent a desired threshold of acceptability. As would be
appreciated by one of skill in the art, the threshold variable X
may be a value set by a user or an determined according to
administrative guidelines. For example, the threshold variable may
be set by company administration to be a value of 2 degree
Fahrenheit per second. Accordingly, if the rate of change is less
than the threshold value then the process progresses to step 264.
Otherwise, if the rate of change exceeds the threshold value, the
process returns to step 258 and repeats until the rate of change is
less than the threshold. In accordance with an example embodiment
of the present invention, if the rate of change is not less than
the threshold value, in addition to returning to step 258, an alert
may be triggered and displayed to a user of the probe device 12
that the rate of change is not less than the threshold value. As
would be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the signal
processing algorithm may process previous values of the rate of
change of the measurement to determine whether or not to continue
to step 264, or to return to step 258. For example, the signal
processing algorithm may determine whether the temperature of the
sample item or space modulates in accordance to a sine wave
pattern.
[0036] At step 264, a determination is made that the correct steady
state value for the received sample type, in that it is within the
predetermined sample type range, has been detected. As would he
appreciated by one of skill in the art, the rate of change as
determined in steps 260 and 262 may establish a steady state
measurement value as discussed with respect to step 208 of FIG. 2A.
Once the correct measured value has been determined, then the
measured value may be automatically recorded. At step 268, a
determination is made (e.g. by computing hardware device 14) as to
whether more sample types are to be measured. As would be
appreciated by one of skill in the art, the determination may be
made by checking a sample type checklist from the storage device 26
or may be determined by receiving an input from the user of the
probe device 12, as discussed with respect to FIG. 2A. If it is
determined that no more sample types are to be measured, then the
process advances to step 270, at which the process terminates.
Otherwise, if it is determined that more sample types need to be
measured, the process returns to step 252 and repeats the steps of
process 250.
[0037] FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary process for the operation of
automatically determining when to measure and record the measured
values of a sample item in accordance with aspects of the present
invention. In particular, FIG. 3 depicts that the probe device 12
may automatically determine when to measure and record a
measurement value of a sample item or space based on the use of one
or more proximity sensors 18. As would be appreciated by one of
skill in the art, the proximity sensors 18 may include a
combination of transmitters (e.g., an NFC tag, laser sensors, IR
sensors, sonic sensors, etc.), gesture recognition devices, and/or
sensors (e.g., sensors 16) built into the probe device (e.g.,
ultrasound device). Additionally, one or more other sensors for
measuring movement (e.g., accelerometer, gyroscope, etc.) of the
probe device 12 may be used in place of or in combination with the
proximity sensors 18. For example, a gyroscope may be used to
determine when the probe device 12 is no longer moving and
determine that the probe device 12, or the sensors 16, have been
inserted into the sample item or space.
[0038] At step 310, the probe device 12 may receive proximity
sensor data from the one or more proximity sensors 18 when the
probe device 12 is within a predetermined distance of a target
sample. In some implementations, the probe device 12 receives
messages from a wireless beacon, such as a Bluetooth beacon that
indicate proximity. For example, the one or more proximity sensors
18 may be located near a cooktop surface and the proximity sensor
data received from the proximity sensors 18 may indicate that the
probe device 12 is within range of the cooktop surface. In
accordance with an example embodiment, the proximity sensor data
may also indicate that the probe device 12 is within range of or
has been inserted into a particular sample item type or space,
having a predetermined range of sample physical measurement values
(e.g., sample physical measurement values as discussed with respect
to FIG. 2A). For example, when the probe device 12 is within range
of a proximity sensor 18 for a cooktop, the proximity sensor data
may indicate that the cooktop is used for cooking poultry, which
has a predetermined temperature range of 165-170 degrees
Fahrenheit. As would be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the
proximity device may directly transmit the sample type information
to the probe device 12 in the proximity sensor data, such that the
probe device 12 automatically receives the item type to be
measured. Alternatively, the one or more sensors 16 may transmit an
identifier used by the probe device 12 to look up the appropriate
sample type information in the storage device 26. For example,
using the identifier, the probe device 12 may look up a sample type
associated with the particular proximity sensor 18, and the
predetermined measurement value ranges associated with that sample
type.
[0039] At step 320, a user may physically insert the probe device
12 into the selected target sample item or space. For example, the
user may inselt the temperature sensor (e.g., thermocouple) of the
probe device 12 into a sample food item (e.g., poultry). As would
be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the probe device 12, or
the at least one or more sensors 16 may be configured to take a
measurement without physically inserting the sensors 16. Into the
sample item or space, as discussed with respect to FIG. 2A.
Additionally, the proximity sensors 18 may be used to detect that
the probe device 12 has been inserted into a sample item or space
and whether the probe device has been inserted to a correct depth
of the sample item or space. At step 330, the probe device 12 may
detect a proximity sensor 18 and/or receive instructions from the
proximity sensor 18 to initiate instructions to take a steady state
measurement value within a predetermined range of the selected
sample type. For example, the probe device 12 may determine that a
particular proximity device is within range of or has been inserted
into a sample item or space and initiate a measurement using one or
more sensors 16. During the measurement, the probe device 12 may
determine that the measured values are unchanging over a period of
time and thus recognizes a steady state measured value. As would be
appreciated by one of skill in the art, the detection of the steady
state measurement value may be performed in manner similar to that
discussed with respect to step 208 of FIGS. 2A and 2B.
[0040] At step 340, in response to determining a steady state
measurement value within the predetermined range of the selected
sample type indicated by the proximity sensor 18 (step 208), the
probe device 12 may automatically record the steady state
measurement value. For example, the steady state measurement value
is recorded in the storage device 26 associated with the sample
type item (e.g., poultry) associated with the detected proximity
sensor 18. As would be appreciated by one of skill in the art,
additional data and/or metadata may also be stored in the storage
device 26. For example, the probe device 12 may also record a time
at which the temperature was taken, the number and iteration of
that particular sample type that has been taken, an employee
identifier of the user taking the measurements, etc.
[0041] As would be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the
probe device 12 may be configured to use a combination of detecting
a change in temperature and the proximity sensors 18 to
automatically measure and record temperatures of various items. For
example, the probe device 12 may use a combination of the processes
depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3 and additional methods known in the
art.
[0042] FIGS. 4A-4C depict methods of automatically measuring and
recording temperatures of one or more sample items or spaces using
a combination of steps discussed in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 3, and in
accordance with the present invention. In particular, the process
400 in FIG. 4A depicts an example method using the processing
signal algorithm to automatically measure and record a temperature
of one or more sample items (e.g., food items). At step 402, a user
initiates the probe device 12 to take temperatures of one or more
sample items using the probe device 12 or one or more sensors 16.
At step 404, the next sample item to be measured is received by the
probe device 12 (e.g., received as discussed with respect to FIGS.
1-3). At step 406, the user inserts (or aims) the probe device 12
into the sample item (e.g., as discussed with respect to FIGS.
1-3). At step 408, the probe device 12, or at least the sensors 16,
measures the temperature of the sample item (e.g., as discussed
with respect to FIGS. 1-3). At step 410, the probe device 12
determines whether the measured temperate falls within a
predetermined range (e.g., between the predetermined values A and
B) for the sample type of the sample item (e.g., as discussed with
respect to FIGS. 1-3). If the measured temperature is within the
predetermined range then the process advances to step 412,
otherwise the process returns to step 408.
[0043] Continuing with FIG. 4A, at step 412, the temperature of the
item is measured, as done in step 408. At step 414, the rate of
change of the measured temperatures are determined by the probe
device 12 (e.g., as discussed with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B). At
step 416, the probe device 12 determines whether the rate of change
of the temperature (T) is less than a predetermined threshold value
(L) (e.g., as discussed with respect to FIG. 2B). For example, if
the rate of change of the temperature is less than the
predetermined threshold value then the temperature has stabilized.
If the rate of change of the temperature is less than the
predetermined threshold value then the process advances to step
418, otherwise the process returns to step 412. At step 418, a
determination that the correct temperature has been measured is
made by the probe device 12 and the temperature is subsequently
recorded. At step 420, the probe device 12 determines whether more
temperature(s) of one or more sample items are to be taken. If the
probe device 12 determines that more temperature(s) of one or more
sample items are to be measured then the process returns to step
404 (e.g., as discussed with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B), otherwise
the process advances to step 422. At step 422, the process has
completed and terminates.
[0044] The process 430 in FIG. 4B depicts an example method for
displaying a timer to a user taking a temperature of one or more
sample items. In particular, the process 430 depicts a method in
which a timer is used to instruct a user to put the probe device
12, or the one or more sensors 16, into the correct item or space
before the probe device 12 automatically takes and records a
temperature of an item or space. At step 432, a user initiates the
probe device 12 to take temperatures of one or more sample items
using the probe device 12, or one or more sensors 16. At step 434,
the next sample item to be measured is received by the probe device
12 (e.g., received as discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-3). At step
436, a timer is initialized and/or reset for the new received
sample item. For example, the timer may be reset to 15 seconds to
allow the user time to insert the probe device 12, or the one or
more sensors 16, into the next sample item. As would be appreciated
by one of skill in the art, the timer may be an incremental
countdown timer or other timer known in the air. At step 438, the
user inserts (or aims) the probe device 12 into the sample item
(e.g., as discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-3).
[0045] Continuing with FIG. 4B, at step 440, the probe device 12
determines whether the time has expired. For example, the probe
device 12 may determine whether the timer has reached 0 seconds. If
the probe device 12 determines that the timer has expired, then the
process advances to step 442, otherwise the process returns to step
438. At step 442, in response to the determination that the timer
expired, instructions are triggered to take a temperature of the
sample item. At step 444, a determination that the correct
temperature has been measured is made by the probe device 12 and
the temperature is subsequently recorded. At step 446, the probe
device 12 determines whether more temperature(s) of one or more
sample items are to be taken. If the probe device 12 determines
that more temperature(s) of one or more sample items are to be
measured, then the process returns to step 434 (e.g., as discussed
with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B), otherwise the process advances to
step 448. At step 448, the process has completed and
terminates.
[0046] The process 460 in FIG. 4C depicts an example method using
the proximity sensors 18 as discussed with respect to FIG. 3. In
particular, the process 460 depicts a method in which the probe
device 12 automatically takes and records a temperature of an item
using proximity sensors 18 (as discussed with respect to FIGS. 1
and 3). At step 462, a user initiates the probe device 12 to take
temperatures of one or more sample items using the probe device 12,
or one or more sensors 16. At step 464, the next sample item to be
measured is received by the probe device 12 (e.g., received as
discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-3). At step 466, the user inserts
(or aims) the probe device 12 into the sample item (e.g., as
discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-3). At step 468, the probe device
12 determines whether the one or more sensors 16 are inselied into
the sample item, using the proximity sensors 18 and/or the one or
more sensors 16 (as discussed with respect to FIGS. 1 and 3). If
the probe device 12 determines that the one or more sensors 16 are
inserted in the sample item, then the process advances to step 470,
otherwise the process returns to step 466. Accordingly, the
temperature of the item will not be measured (at step 470) until
the probe device 12 determines that the one or more sensors 16 are
inserted in the sample item.
[0047] At step 470, in response to the determination that the
sensing element is inserted, instructions are triggered to take a
temperature of the item. At step 472, a determination that the
correct temperature has been measured is made by the probe device
12 and the temperature is subsequently recorded. At step 474, the
probe device 12 determines whether more temperature(s) of one or
more sample items are to be taken. If the probe device 12
determines that more temperature(s) of one or more sample items are
to be measured then the process returns to step 464 (e.g., as
discussed with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B), otherwise the process
advances to step 480. At step 480, the process has completed and
terminates.
[0048] Any suitable computing device can be used to implement the
probe device 12 and the computing hardware device 14 and
methods/functionality described herein. One illustrative example of
such a computing device 600 is depicted in FIG. 5. The computing
device 600 is merely an illustrative example of a suitable
computing environment and in no way limits the scope of the present
invention. A "computing device," as represented by FIG. 5, can
include a "workstation," a "server," a "laptop," a "desktop," a
"hand-held device," a "mobile device," a "tablet computer," or
other computing devices, as would be understood by those of skill
in the art. Given that the computing device 600 is depicted for
illustrative purposes, embodiments of the present invention may
utilize any number of computing devices 600 in any number of
different ways to implement a single embodiment of the present
invention. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention are
not limited to a single computing device 600, as would be
appreciated by one with skill in the art, nor are they limited to a
single type of implementation or configuration of the example
computing device 600.
[0049] The computing device 600 can include a bus 610 that can be
coupled to one or more of the following illustrative components,
directly or indirectly: a memory 612, one or more processors 614,
one or more presentation components 616, input/output ports 618,
input/output components 620, and a power supply 624. One of skill
in the art will appreciate that the bus 610 can include one or more
busses, such as an address bus, a data bus, or any combination
thereof. One of skill in the art additionally will appreciate that,
depending on the intended applications and uses of a particular
embodiment, multiple of these components can be implemented by a
single device. Similarly, in some instances, a single component can
be implemented by multiple devices. As such, FIG. 5 is merely
illustrative of an exemplary computing device that can be used to
implement one or more embodiments of the present invention, and in
no way limits the invention.
[0050] The computing device 600 can include or interact with a
variety of computer readable media. For example, computer-readable
media can include Random Access Memory (RAM); Read Only Memory
(ROM); Electronically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory
(EEPROM); flash memory or other memory technologies; CD ROM,
digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical or holographic
media; magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or
other magnetic storage devices that can be used to encode
information and can be accessed by the computing device 600.
[0051] The memory 612 can include computer-storage media in the
form of volatile and/or nonvolatile memory. The memory 612 may be
removable, non-removable, or any combination thereof. Exemplary
hardware devices are devices such as hard drives, solid state
memory, optical-disc drives, and the like. The computing device 600
can include one or more processors that read data from components
such as the memory 612, the various I/O components 616, etc.
Presentation component(s) 616 present data indications to a user or
other device. Exemplary presentation components include a display
device, speaker, printing component, vibrating component, etc.
[0052] The I/O ports 618 can enable the computing device 600 to be
logically coupled to other devices, such as I/O components 620.
Some of the I/O components 620 can be built into the computing
device 600. Examples of such I/O components 620 include a
microphone, joystick, recording device, game pad, satellite dish,
scanner, printer, wireless device, networking device, and the
like.
[0053] As utilized herein, the terms "comprises" and "comprising"
are intended to be construed as being inclusive, not exclusive. As
utilized herein, the terms "exemplary", "example", and
"illustrative", are intended to mean "serving as an example,
instance, or illustration" and should not be construed as
indicating, or not indicating, a preferred or advantageous
configuration relative to other configurations. As utilized herein,
the terms "about" and "approximately" are intended to cover
variations that may existing in the upper and lower limits of the
ranges of subjective or objective values, such as variations in
properties, parameters, sizes, and dimensions. In one non-limiting
example, the terms "about" and "approximately" mean at, or plus 10
percent or less, or minus 10 percent or less. In one non-limiting
example, the terms "about" and "approximately" mean sufficiently
close to be deemed by one of skill in the art in the relevant field
to be included. As utilized herein, the term "substantially" refers
to the complete or nearly complete extend or degree of an action,
characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result, as
would be appreciated by one of skill in the art. For example, an
object that is "substantially" circular would mean that the object
is either completely a circle to mathematically determinable
limits, or nearly a circle as would be recognized or understood by
one of skill in the art. The exact allowable degree of deviation
from absolute completeness may in some instances depend on the
specific context. However, in general, the nearness of completion
will be so as to have the same overall result as if absolute and
total completion were achieved or obtained. The use of
"substantially" is equally applicable when utilized in a negative
connotation to refer to the complete or near complete lack of an
action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or
result, as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art.
[0054] Numerous modifications and alternative embodiments of the
present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in
view of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this description is
to be construed as illustrative only and is for the purpose of
teaching those skilled in the art the best mode for carrying out
the present invention. Details of the structure may vary
substantially without depailing from the spirit of the present
invention, and exclusive use of all modifications that come within
the scope of the appended claims is reserved. With in this
specification embodiments have been described in a way which
enables a clear and concise specification to be written, but it is
intended and will be appreciated that embodiments may be variously
combined or separated without parting from the invention. It is
intended that the present invention be limited only to the extent
required by the appended claims and the applicable rules of
law.
[0055] It is also to be understood that the following claims are to
cover all generic and specific features of the invention described
herein, and all statements of the scope of the invention which, as
a matter of language, might be said to fall there between.
* * * * *