Abstract: A laminated, sheet-like transducer is disclosed which produces an output signal in response to changing mechanical forces applied thereto. The transducer includes a top flexible plate with a matrix of uniformly spaced-apart convex members on one surface and a bottom flexible plate with a matrix of uniformly spaced-apart convex members on one surface. The convex members on the surface of one plate are aligned with the spaces between the convex members on the surface of the other plate. A synthetic resin polymer electret film is sandwiched between the convex members of each plate and becomes deformed when the convex members press against and horizontally stretch the electret film due to the changing mechanical forces applied to the transducer. Electrodes are connected to opposite surfaces of the electret film and form, at least on one surface, a uniformly spaced-apart electrically interconnected electrode configuration.

Abstract: A fast response, electronic clinical thermometer for measuring body temperature is disclosed which has a probe that includes a hollow tubular probe body and a thermal sensor assembly having a low thermal mass at the temperature sensing end of the probe body. The thermal sensor assembly includes a temperature sensing element electrically connected to a thin metal plate with good thermal conductivity which is received and supported by the probe body at its temperature sensing end. The probe is sealed off at its temperature sensing end permitting only the metal plate of the thermal sensor assembly and the probe body in the vicinity of the metal plate to make contact with the tissues of the body for measuring temperature. The probe is sealed to provide resistance to contamination during use.

Abstract: A probe of very low thermal mass and fast response for a digital electronic clinical thermometer using an extremely small temperature-responsive element with leads supported between coaxial tubular members. The temperature-responsive element, with adjacent lead portions is supported on at least one substantially hemispherical cup, also of low thermal mass adhered to the ends of the tubular members. Preferably a pair of hemispherically ended cups enclose a thermocouple junction and the associated lead portions, although a thermistor may also be used as the temperature-responsive element.