With Removable Cover For Sensor (e.g., Disposable Sheath) Patents (Class 374/158)
  • Patent number: 8033719
    Abstract: The invention relates to a gas turbine, with a flow path for a hot gas, enclosed by a channel wall with at least one measuring probe, arranged in the channel wall, for determination of a parameter of the hot gas, said measuring probe comprising a temperature-resistant measuring tip in contact with the hot gas and a measuring line, arranged outside the flow path in a protective sleeve. According to the invention, such a gas turbine with a structurally uncomplicated protective sleeve for measuring lines from measuring probes, in which the measuring lines can be economically fitted and securely protected from excessively high operating temperatures, may be achieved, whereby the protective sleeve has a flow of coolant running therethrough which may be taken from a coolant supply connected to the protective sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Matthias Beutin, Gilbert Braun, Holger Eisenlohr, Giuseppe Gaio, Frank Günther, Kai-Uwe Rogos, Bernd Vonnemann, Edmund Zastrozny
  • Patent number: 8021040
    Abstract: A disposable thermometer probe sheath includes a bottom piece and a plastic cover film sealed onto the bottom piece. The plastic cover film comprising an upper plastic sheet film and a lower plastic sheet film, each of which has a front edge provided with an opening, a rear edge provided with a tip, and a sealed peripheral edge except for the opening, so as to receive a thermometer probe. The plastic cover film is made of a flexible and deformable material, while the plastic cover film is provided with two notches respectively formed on two side edges adjacent to the tip. The upper plastic sheet film is provided with a first flap attached to the opening thereof, while the lower plastic sheet film is provided with a second flap attached to the opening. When the thermometer probe is inserted into the plastic cover film, the notches are tightly engaged with the thermometer probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Actherm Inc.
    Inventor: Chih-Wei Hsieh
  • Patent number: 7946761
    Abstract: This invention relates to a shrinkable dispensing container for probe covers of an ear thermometer. Therein, the ear thermometer probe cover refers to a product having a hollow body and a flange. The dispensing container for probe covers of an ear thermometer comprises a main body for accommodating a plurality of stacked probe covers and an access opening formed at one end of the main body for allowing an ear thermometer probe to insert into the probe cover in the main body. The present invention is characterized by a bottom portion formed at another end of the main body opposite to the access opening for supporting all the probe covers stacked within the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Actherm Inc.
    Inventor: Liang-Yi Li
  • Patent number: 7927012
    Abstract: A cassette of tympanic thermometer probe covers includes a frame and probe covers releasably attached to the frame. The probe covers can be individually attached over a probe of a tympanic thermometer to protect the probe from contamination. The probe covers are constructed to releasably secure themselves to the probe. The force required to secure the probe covers to the frame is less that the force which is required to detach the probe covers from the frame so that the probe cover is held by the frame while being attached to the thermometer probe. The probe cover is connected to the frame by frangible connections that are arranged to inhibit pivoting of the probe cover when being attached to the thermometer probe. A method of securing a probe cover to a probe of a tympanic thermometer is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: James M. Harr, Mitchell H. Babkes, Clarence Walker
  • Publication number: 20110032970
    Abstract: A disposable thermometer probe sheath includes a bottom piece and a plastic cover film sealed onto the bottom piece. The plastic cover film comprising an upper plastic sheet film and a lower plastic sheet film, each of which has a front edge provided with an opening, a rear edge provided with a tip, and a sealed peripheral edge except for the opening, so as to receive a thermometer probe. The plastic cover film is made of a flexible and deformable material, while the plastic cover film is provided with two notches respectively formed on two side edges adjacent to the tip. The upper plastic sheet film is provided with a first flap attached to the opening thereof, while the lower plastic sheet film is provided with a second flap attached to the opening. When the thermometer probe is inserted into the plastic cover film, the notches are tightly engaged with the thermometer probe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventor: Chih-Wei HSIEH
  • Patent number: 7845850
    Abstract: A disposable thermometer probe sheath includes a bottom piece and a plastic cover film sealed onto the bottom piece. The plastic cover film comprising an upper plastic sheet film and a lower plastic sheet film, each of which has a front edge provided with an opening, a rear edge provided with a tip, and a sealed peripheral edge except for the opening, so as to receive a thermometer probe. The plastic cover film is made of a flexible and deformable material, while the plastic cover film is provided with two notches respectively formed on two side edges adjacent to the tip. The upper plastic sheet film is provided with a first flap attached to the opening thereof, while the lower plastic sheet film is provided with a second flap attached to the opening. When the thermometer probe is inserted into the plastic cover film, the notches are tightly engaged with the thermometer probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Actherm Inc.
    Inventor: Chih-Wei Hsieh
  • Patent number: 7824102
    Abstract: A thermometer quick linkage apparatus comprises an elastic member, a button, a probe, and a chamber having one end provided with an opening for receiving the end portion of the probe, and the other end also provided with an opening for receiving the button. Within the chamber, one end of the elastic member connects with the button, and the other end thereof connects with the probe. The elastic member is configured such that, when the button is pressed to compress the elastic member to a certain degree, the end portion of the button comes into contact with the end portion of the probe, and when the button is pressed further down, the probe is pushed away from the chamber. The apparatus is simplified in structure, and allows quick replacement of the probe jacket, and therefore is cost-efficient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Xiaojian Ma, Peitao Chen
  • Patent number: 7815367
    Abstract: Disclosed in this specification is an infrared thermometer with multiple probes for use at a variety of bodily sites. The thermometer automatically detects which of the multiple probes is currently attached, loads a predetermined program from memory that corresponds to the current probe, and thereafter obtains a temperature measurement from a patient using infrared radiation emitted therefrom. Each of the probes is comprised of an infrared target which provides a substantially consistent sources of infrared radiation for the thermometer to measure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Welch Allyn, Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Lane, David E. Quinn
  • Publication number: 20100232471
    Abstract: The present invention is an ear thermometer cradle and an ear thermometer assembly. The ear thermometer cradle comprises a hollow housing, a swivel arm, a probe cover container seat, a first elastic member disposed between the swivel arm and the hollow house. The ear thermometer cradle comprises a second elastic member between the container seat and the hollow housing. The hollow housing has an opening and a first blocking portion. The swivel arm includes a first pivot on one end thereof for pivotally connected with the hollow housing, a bearing portion on the other end thereof, and a second blocking portion between the first pivot and the bearing portion. The container seat includes a connective device, a second pivot on two lateral sides thereof for pivotally connected with the hollow housing, a third blocking portion and a forth blocking portion engaging with the first and the second blocking portion respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventor: Liang-Yi LI
  • Patent number: 7722250
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a probe cover for an ear thermometer, which comprises: a film cover and a base. The film cover has a cover window able to contact the probe window at the front end of the ear thermometer, a hollow cone able to contact the sidewall of the probe and a strengthened element able to contact the cover window and the hollow cone. The thickness of the cover window is same as the thickness of the strengthened element and greater than the thickness of the hollow cone. Thereby, the present invention can prevent the variation of infrared transmittance caused by the misarrangement and non-uniform thickness of the probe cover film disposed at the front of the probe window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Radiant Innovation Inc.
    Inventors: Vincent Weng, Kevin Lin, James Huang
  • Patent number: 7703977
    Abstract: The invention describes and claims an apparatus and method of maintaining cleanliness of the thermometer storage case. The apparatus is an improved elongated end-loading storage case for thermometers. The improvement comprises two or more elongated sections of the case. Each section comprises a connection edge, an insertion tip, and a distal tip. The elongated sections of the case are detachably connected to each other to form a thermometer storage case that opens up to reveal the inner surface of the case for easy inspection and cleaning. The case comprises a fastener for fixating the case in the assembled case body position. The method of cleaning the thermometer storage case comprises the steps of unfastening and opening the case, inspecting and sanitizing the inside surface of the case, and then reconnecting and fixating the elongated sections to form the thermometer storage case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Inventor: Anna Knishevitskiy
  • Patent number: 7686506
    Abstract: Probe cover cassettes having a plurality of probe covers releasably attached to a frame are capable of being stacked so that probe covers attached to a first of the frames are nested within probe covers attached to a second of the frames. The vertical space occupied by the cassettes is reduced allowing more cassettes to be stacked in a given space. The frames of the cassettes are particularly constructed to resist twisting and bending motion when probe covers are detached from the frames using a tympanic thermometer probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: Mitchell H. Babkes, Clarence Walker, Kevin C. Meier, James M. Harr, Mark A. Davis
  • Patent number: 7665893
    Abstract: A protective cover set for a medical probe designated to be inserted into an endocavity or used intraoperatively in an incision of a human or an animal body, said cover set comprising a probe cover made from a film material, said probe cover having a mouth end with a mouth for inserting said probe and a closed end opposite to said mouth end; and an outer wrapper being joined to said probe cover, said outer wrapper covering at least a length of said probe cover; the probe cover comprising an adhesive element connected to said mouth end of said probe cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Parker Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventor: Neal Buchalter
  • Patent number: 7585108
    Abstract: The present invention provides a probe cover for an ear thermometer and a manufacturing method thereof. The probe cover is for sheathing a measuring probe of the ear thermometer, and an engaging means is provided at a bottom of the measuring probe. The probe cover comprises a main body of a hollow structure, an abutting segment and a base. Therein, the main body has an open end and a closed end opposite to the open end. An assembling direction extending from the open end toward the closed end is where the measuring probe is assembled along. Further, the main body has a diameter gradually reducing along the assembling direction. The closed end allows infrared rays to be received by the measuring probe to pass therethrough. Therein, the abutting segment is provided at the open end of the main body, and the base is annularly provided around a periphery of the abutting segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Actherm Inc.
    Inventors: Li-Heng Chuang, Liang-Yi Li
  • Patent number: 7572056
    Abstract: A disposable cover for an elongated probe of a portable thermometry apparatus includes an open proximal end and a distal tip sized to fit over at least an axial portion of the elongated probe. The cover includes a transitional wall thickness at its proximal end for fitting over a holding barb of said probe, the transitional wall thickness varying between a first wall thickness adjacent the proximal end and a second wall thickness that is substantially thinner than the first wall thickness at a distal axial distance relative to the proximal end. The second wall thickness defines a weakened wall portion which is ruptured when the cover has been ejected from said holding barb by an ejection mechanism of the thermometry apparatus. The cover can also include a thinned walled portion over at least a portion of the distal tip and can also include a feature that permits the user to detect when a cover has been attached to a probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Welch Allyn, Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Lane, David S. Young, David E. Quinn
  • Publication number: 20090175316
    Abstract: The invention relates to a gas turbine, with a flow path for a hot gas, enclosed by a channel wall with at least one measuring probe, arranged in the channel wall, for determination of a parameter of the hot gas, said measuring probe comprising a temperature-resistant measuring tip in contact with the hot gas and a measuring line, arranged outside the flow path in a protective sleeve. According to the invention, such a gas turbine with a structurally uncomplicated protective sleeve for measuring lines from measuring probes, in which the measuring lines can be economically fitted and securely protected from excessively high operating temperatures, may be achieved, whereby the protective sleeve has a flow of coolant running therethrough which may be taken from a coolant supply connected to the protective sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2006
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventors: Matthias Beutin, Gilbert Braun, Holger Eisenlohr, Giuseppe Gaio, Frank Günther, Kai-Uwe Rogos, Bernd Vonnemann, Edmund Zastrozny
  • Patent number: 7556424
    Abstract: A cassette of probe covers that can be removed from the set for covering a probe of a tympanic thermometer can be securely retained in a cassette holder, and readily removed when necessary. The cassette includes a retaining system that can have a detent on the cassette holder and a detent receptacle on the cassette. The detent snaps into the receptacle when the cassette is inserted into the holder. The holder is configured so that grips on the cassettes are readily accessed to grasp and hold the cassettes for removal from the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: Clarence Walker, Mitchell H. Babkes, Kevin C. Meier, Mark A. Davis
  • Publication number: 20090129437
    Abstract: The present invention provides a probe cover for an ear thermometer and a manufacturing method thereof. The probe cover is for sheathing a measuring probe of the ear thermometer, and an engaging means is provided at a bottom of the measuring probe. The probe cover comprises a main body of a hollow structure, an abutting segment and a base. Therein, the main body has an open end and a closed end opposite to the open end. An assembling direction extending from the open end toward the closed end is where the measuring probe is assembled along. Further, the main body has a diameter gradually reducing along the assembling direction. The closed end allows infrared rays to be received by the measuring probe to pass therethrough. Therein, the abutting segment is provided at the open end of the main body, and the base is annularly provided around a periphery of the abutting segment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2008
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventors: Li-Heng CHUANG, Liang-Yi LI
  • Patent number: 7530738
    Abstract: A probe cover having a portion that operates as a blackbody. The blackbody is a combination of a stretchable film and a metal. The blackbody rapidly heats to equilibrium with the body tissue. An infrared thermometer using the probe cover may view the blackbody to acquire the temperature of the body tissue temperature being measured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventor: Jeffrey E. Price
  • Patent number: 7520671
    Abstract: A probe cover (20) is provided including a tubular body extending from a proximal end (24) to a distal end (26). The proximal end defines an opening configured for receipt of a distal end of a thermometer. The distal end of the tubular body is substantially enclosed by a film (36). The distal end includes at least one end rib (38) disposed about an inner circumference thereof. At least one end rib is configured to engage the distal end of the thermometer such that the distal end of the thermometer is spaced apart from the film. The body may extend in a tapered configuration from the proximal end to the distal end. The end rib can include a transverse portion disposed along a surface of the film. The end rib may include a longitudinal portion extending along the body. The longitudinal portion may extend proximally along the body and the transverse portion may project along a surface of the film such that the longitudinal portion and the transverse portion cooperate to receive the distal end of the thermometer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: Loren Lantz, James Harr, Mark Davis
  • Publication number: 20090092172
    Abstract: A cassette of tympanic thermometer probe covers includes a frame and probe covers releasably attached to the frame. The probe covers can be individually attached over a probe of a tympanic thermometer to protect the probe from contamination. The probe covers are constructed to releasably secure themselves to the probe. The force required to secure the probe covers to the frame is less that the force which is required to detach the probe covers from the frame so that the probe cover is held by the frame while being attached to the thermometer probe. The probe cover is connected to the frame by frangible connections that are arranged to inhibit pivoting of the probe cover when being attached to the thermometer probe. A method of securing a probe cover to a probe of a tympanic thermometer is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Applicant: SHERWOOD SERVICES AG
    Inventors: James M. Harr, Mitchell H. Babkes, Clarence Walker
  • Patent number: 7494273
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an ear thermometer with a simple-structure and easy-operation probe-cover detaching mechanism, which comprises a body having a probe and a detaching element installed to the bottom of the probe. The detaching element can be directly operated by a finger. After measurement, the user can use the detaching element to exert an outward force on a probe cover sleeving the probe and reject the probe cover from the probe. Further, the detaching element may be made of a metallic material, and magnetic elements are arranged at the corresponding positions of the probe bottom; thereby, the detaching element can be automatically restored to its original position by the attractive force of the magnetic elements. Therefore, the present invention provides an ear thermometer, which can easily reject a probe cover from the probe and has the advantages of simple structure and easy operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Radiant Innovation Inc.
    Inventors: James Huang, Eileen Chen
  • Publication number: 20090034583
    Abstract: An accessory for measuring temperature in solidified products such as frozen meats and frozen food in general, adapted to pierce the frozen product. The accessory comprises a cavity enclosing a thermometry element suitable for such purpose and is defined by a body made of a thermo-conducting material. The accessory comprises a tubular portion that can be inserted into the product which temperature needs to be measured, and an operator handle for the accessory. A cavity enclosing a temperature sensing element extends along the tubular portion to the proximity of its distal end, which has a pointed end. The distal section of the tubular portion comprises at least one helical cutting edge for cutting the frozen product, which allows the insertion of the accessory when being turned. The operator handle is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tubular portion, and comprises a hole that connects with the cavity that contains the temperature sensing element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2007
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventors: Gabriel Elias Chab, Teodoro Roberto Suguer
  • Patent number: 7478946
    Abstract: A cassette of tympanic thermometer probe covers includes a frame and probe covers releasably attached to the frame. The probe covers can be individually attached over a probe of a tympanic thermometer to protect the probe from contamination. The probe covers are constructed to releasably secure themselves to the probe. The force required to secure the probe covers to the frame is less that the force which is required to detach the probe covers from the frame so that the probe cover is held by the frame while being attached to the thermometer probe. The probe cover is connected to the frame by frangible connections that are arranged to inhibit pivoting of the probe cover when being attached to the thermometer probe. A method of securing a probe cover to a probe of a tympanic thermometer is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: James M. Harr, Mitchell H. Babkes, Clarence Walker
  • Publication number: 20080317096
    Abstract: A disposable thermometer probe sheath includes a bottom piece and a plastic cover film sealed onto the bottom piece. The plastic cover film comprising an upper plastic sheet film and a lower plastic sheet film, each of which has a front edge provided with an opening, a rear edge provided with a tip, and a sealed peripheral edge except for the opening, so as to receive a thermometer probe. The plastic cover film is made of a flexible and deformable material, while the plastic cover film is provided with two notches respectively formed on two side edges adjacent to the tip. The upper plastic sheet film is provided with a first flap attached to the opening thereof, while the lower plastic sheet film is provided with a second flap attached to the opening. When the thermometer probe is inserted into the plastic cover film, the notches are tightly engaged with the thermometer probe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: Chih-Wei Hsieh
  • Patent number: 7434991
    Abstract: A tympanic thermometer includes a thermally conductive nozzle extending from a distal end of the thermometer. A base of a sensor can is thermally connected to the nozzle to define a path of conductive heat transfer from the nozzle to the base of the can thereby minimizing a thermal gradient between proximal and distal ends of the sensor can when temperature is measured in the ear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: James M. Harr, Clarence Walker
  • Publication number: 20080137710
    Abstract: A thermometer quick linkage apparatus comprises an elastic member, a button, a probe, and a chamber having one end provided with an opening for receiving the end portion of the probe, and the other end also provided with an opening for receiving the button. Within the chamber, one end of the elastic member connects with the button, and the other end thereof connects with the probe. The elastic member is configured such that, when the button is pressed to compress the elastic member to a certain degree, the end portion of the button comes into contact with the end portion of the probe, and when the button is pressed further down, the probe is pushed away from the chamber. The apparatus is simplified in structure, and allows quick replacement of the probe jacket, and therefore is cost-efficient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: SHENZHEN MINDRAY BIO-MEDICAL ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Xiaojian Ma, Peitao Chen
  • Publication number: 20080089386
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling a temperature indicator stick includes a housing having an interior configured to receive the temperature indicator stick configured to indicate a predetermined temperature through a physical change or a chemical when exposed to the predetermined temperature. A gear is supported by the housing that extends from beyond an exterior of the housing into the interior of the housing to engage the temperature indicator stick. Accordingly, rotation of the gear from the exterior causes a retraction or advancement of the temperature indicator stick to and from the interior of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2006
    Publication date: April 17, 2008
    Inventors: Anatoly Gosis, Shannon B. Reading, Joseph E. Fabin, Frank Otte
  • Patent number: 7354194
    Abstract: A probe cover for a tympanic thermometer probe comprises a generally tubular body having an opening for receiving the thermometer probe and an infrared transparent window at a distal end thereof. In one embodiment, a film support extends radially inward from the distal end of the body and supports an infrared transparent film spanning the window. The film support has an inner edge that is substantially free from corners turning in the plane of the window. A plurality of end ribs are spaced apart and disposed about an inner circumference of the distal end of the body to engage a distal end of the thermometer probe and form an insulating gap by preventing contact of the film by the thermometer probe. The insulating gap also extends proximally into spaces between the end ribs, reducing thermal contact between the thermometer probe and a circumferential inner surface of the probe cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: Clarence Walker, Kevin C. Meier, Wayne Schuessler, David Rork Swisher
  • Patent number: 7324264
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method of manufacturing micro-cell arrays. Such an array may find use in a number of applications such as, for example, a video display, electronic paper, and signage. The microcell arrays find particular use in electromodulating displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Peter T. Aylward, Thomas M. Smith, Leonard S. Gates, Daniel A. Slater
  • Publication number: 20070268956
    Abstract: A cassette of probe covers that can be removed from the set for covering a probe of a tympanic thermometer can be securely retained in a cassette holder, and readily removed when necessary. The cassette includes a retaining system that can have a detent on the cassette holder and a detent receptacle on the cassette. The detent snaps into the receptacle when the cassette is inserted into the holder. The holder is configured so that grips on the cassettes are readily accessed to grasp and hold the cassettes for removal from the holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Publication date: November 22, 2007
    Applicant: SHERWOOD SERVICES AG
    Inventors: Clarence Walker, Mitchell H. Babkes, Kevin C. Meier, Mark A. Davis
  • Publication number: 20070263698
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a probe cover for an ear thermometer, which comprises: a film cover and a base. The film cover has a cover window able to contact the probe window at the front end of the ear thermometer and a hollow cone able to contact the sidewall of the probe. The width of the cover window is greater than the width of the probe window. Thereby, the present invention can prevent the variation of infrared transmittance caused by the misarrangement and non-uniform thickness of the probe cover film disposed at the front of the probe window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2006
    Publication date: November 15, 2007
    Inventors: Kevin Lin, Vincent Weng, James Huang
  • Patent number: 7290926
    Abstract: An ear thermometer including a main body and a probe secured thereto for receiving heat radiation emitted from ear canal. A disposable sheath is operative to surround the probe and isolate the probe from contact with the ear canal. A non-detachable cap which is secured to the main body and the probe are movable relative to each other, thereby allowing the disposable sheath to be popped off of the probe by movement of the non-detachable cap or the probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Mesure Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chu-Yih Yu
  • Patent number: 7237949
    Abstract: A probe cover (20) is provided including a tubular body extending from a proximal end (24) to a distal end (26). The proximal end defines an opening configured for receipt of a distal end of a thermometer. The distal end of the tubular body is substantially enclosed by a film (36). The distal end includes at least one end rib (38) disposed about an inner circumference thereof. At least one end rib is configured to engage the distal end of the thermometer such that the distal end of the thermometer is spaced apart from the film. The body may extend in a tapered configuration from the proximal end to the distal end. The end rib can include a transverse portion disposed along a surface of the film. The end rib may include a longitudinal portion extending along the body. The longitudinal portion may extend proximally along the body and the transverse portion may project along a surface of the film such that the longitudinal portion and the transverse portion cooperate to receive the distal end of the thermometer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Sherwood Services AG
    Inventors: Loren Lantz, James Harr, Mark Davis
  • Patent number: 7121720
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a protective cap (2) for a temperature measurement probe (30) of an infrared radiation thermometer (1) that can be introduced into a body cavity (31). The protective cap (2) is comprised of a base body (12) shaped to fit the body cavity (31) and having a window (15) transparent to infrared radiation. The base body (12) is provided with additional structures (13; 18, 20) at least in parts to improve heat insulation between the temperature measurement probe (30) and the body cavity (31). This heat insulation of the temperature measurement probe (30) prevents measurement errors by the infrared radiation thermometer (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Braun GmbH
    Inventors: Frank Beerwerth, Bernhard Kraus, Katja Honnefeller
  • Patent number: 7083330
    Abstract: An ear thermometer includes a main body having a side provided with a sensing head, and a disposable ear cap removably mounted on the sensing head of the main body and having a periphery provided with a pull tab having a root portion formed with a breakable slit connected to the periphery of the ear cap. Thus, the ear cap is broken from the breakable slit of the pull tab, so that the ear cap is broken completely and cannot be reused by a person intentionally, thereby assuring the safe use of the ear cap without incurring a sanitary problem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: Huang Hua Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shih-Tang Yao
  • Patent number: 7080941
    Abstract: A temperature sensing system incorporates a contact temperature sensor probe for measuring the temperature of articles. The probe is able to operate effectively even in high radio frequency environments such as those present within radio frequency excited plasma processing chambers. The temperature sensing system includes a contact temperature sensor, such as a thermocouple, surrounded by a shielding sheath of a material such as aluminum which is clad with one or more layers of a cladding material. A tip insulator is provided surrounding the sheath for providing RF insulation and thermal coupling. An RF insulating and thermal insulating mounting member is connected to the tip insulator for mounting the probe on an article to be measured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventors: Neil Benjamin, Charles Ross, Rory Babb
  • Patent number: 7004623
    Abstract: A disposable sheath for a data logger probe comprises a mounting plate 12 and an elongated sheath 14 attached perpendicularly to the mounting plate for insertion through the wall or top cover and into the interior of a container, the mounting plate having inwardly projecting overlap members 22 and stop bosses 20 for mounting a data logger on the mounting plate, and the sheath having a longitudinal bore 60 in communication with an aperture 48 in the mounting plate for insertion therein of a data logger probe for measuring the environmental conditions on the interior of the container while keeping the data logger on the outside of the container for viewing of displayed information related to those conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Inventors: Jon Nakagawa, Gregory T. Reel
  • Patent number: 6945936
    Abstract: A barrier for use in relation to an eye contacting testing apparatus of the sort having a probe for contacting the eye, comprises a layer of substantially transparent material having dimensions comparable to the surface of the head of the probe and is removably fixable to the probe by means, such as a peelable adhesive, which do not affect the transparency of the material layer. The layer is sterile on the surface which contacts the eye in place of the probe head. Such barriers are disposable and quick and easy to position and replace. Barriers according to the invention can be conveniently provided in sheets comprising multiples of barriers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Inventor: Jonathan Quinton Kerr
  • Patent number: 6886979
    Abstract: A temperature measure device having a light source to provide the user an effective and efficient means to take temperatures in a low-lighted area. A temperature measure device having a cartridge to store, dispense and discard the covers. The covers made of a thin narrow flexible material that is housed by a body and conveniently stored inside or in the proximity of the temperature-measuring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: Carl J Conforti
  • Patent number: 6854880
    Abstract: An electronic thermometer is constructed to include a casing, an electronic thermometer module mounted in the casing, a metal probe electrically connected to the electronic thermometer module for sensing the body temperature, an integrally formed flexible covering covered on the casing, and a hard stem connecting the metal probe to the distal end of the tapered front portion of the flexible covering, whereby the stress produced at the time when the measuring end is bent for measuring body temperature will be concentrated at a root portion with a larger inner diameter thereby preventing the measuring end from breaking and ensuring safety in operation. Furthermore, the flexible covering appropriately encloses the casing and has a tapered front portion protruded over the front side of the casing to a distance and has an integrally formed push button, locating flange, and embossed portions for waterproof, decoration and holding convenience thereby reducing manufacturing process and lowering the cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Actherm Inc.
    Inventor: Chih-Wei Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20040264546
    Abstract: An infant thermometer assembly includes a cover portion and a thermometer portion pivotably coupled to the cover portion and pivotably movable relative to the cover portion about a pivot axis between a use position and a stowed position. The thermometer portion includes a probe and a housing coupled to the probe. The housing includes a display screen and a power button. The cover portion includes a cavity formed to receive at least a portion of the housing of the thermometer portion in the use and stowed positions and a cut-out formed to receive the probe of the thermometer portion in the stowed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Anthony Wong, Jerome V. Tomaselli
  • Patent number: 6830373
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a temperature measurement device, particularly to a temperature measurement device for the cold junction of a non-contact temperature measurement element, characterized in that a plurality of electrical-conductive pins is provided on the bottom surface of a base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Opto Tech Corporation
    Inventors: Hung-Te Lin, Chung-Nan Chen, Chih-Hsiung Shen
  • Patent number: 6827488
    Abstract: A temperature measuring apparatus includes a releasable probe chamber for housing a thermometry probe in which the chamber is isolated from the remainder of the thermometry apparatus. Preferably, the probe chamber is releasably attached to the apparatus and causes engagement or disengagement of at least one control switch of the apparatus depending on whether a probe is being removed or inserted into the probe chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Welch Allyn, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan S. Knieriem, David E. Quinn, Thaddeus J. Wawro, John Lane
  • Patent number: 6789936
    Abstract: The invention is directed to an infrared thermometer and a temperature calculation method suitable for determining the body temperature at different measurement sites, for example, on a person's forehead or in the ear. The thermometer includes a device for attaching a demountable probe head. Provision is made for different probe heads that are adapted to fit the different measurement sites.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Braun GmbH
    Inventors: Bernhard Kraus, Frank Beerwerth, Klaus Amsel
  • Patent number: 6786636
    Abstract: A mechanism for removing probe covers from an ear thermometer includes a fastening portion, a connecting portion and a pushing portion. The fastening portion is mounted to the thermometer at a portion near the measuring probe. The connecting portion has one end connected to the fastening portion and the other end connected to the pushing portion. The pushing portion is located at rear end of the probe cover so that as the connecting portion or the pushing portion being pressed by user, the probe cover is removed from the probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Norm Pacific Automation Corp.
    Inventors: Hung-Tsan Huang, Min-Teng Chu, Howard Lin
  • Publication number: 20040052298
    Abstract: An assortment of thermometers lens covers is described wherein the sizes or dimensions are undefined. The lens covers may be assembled or attached irrelevant of the dimensions or size to any analog thermometer, whether the shape being round or geometric. The plano-convex thermometer lens cover will magnify, enlarging the numbers and the calibration indicators of the thermometer. The result of the magnifying lens cover is to increase visibility at a distance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Craig Michael Kompa
  • Patent number: 6695474
    Abstract: A protective cap (2) for a temperature measurement probe (30) of an infrared radiation thermometer (1) that can be introduced into a body cavity (31). The protective cap (2) includes a base body (12) shaped to fit the body cavity (31) and having a window (3) transparent to infrared radiation. The base body (12) is provided with additional structures (13; 18, 20) at least in parts to improve heat insulation between the temperature measurement probe (30) and the body cavity (31). This heat insulation of the temperature measurement probe (30) prevents measurement errors by the infrared radiation thermometer (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Braun Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Frank Beerwerth, Bernhard Kraus, Katja Honnefeller
  • Publication number: 20040013162
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a protective cap (2) for a temperature measurement probe (30) of an infrared radiation thermometer (1) that can be introduced into a body cavity (31). The protective cap (2) is comprised of a base body (12) shaped to fit-the body cavity (31) and having a window (15) transparent to infrared radiation. The base body (12) is provided with additional structures (13; 18, 20) at least in parts to improve heat insulation between the temperature measurement probe (30) and the body cavity (31). This heat insulation of the temperature measurement probe (30) prevents measurement errors by the infrared radiation thermometer (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Applicant: Braun Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Frank Beerwerth, Bernhard Kraus, Katja Honnefeller
  • Patent number: 6647284
    Abstract: A probe cover of a tympanic thermometer and tympanic thermometer assembly includes a base and a sheath attached on the base. The base is a ring-shaped thin film object with a central opening permitting pass of the probe of a tympanic thermometer, and is engaged with flanges at the bottom of the probe. The sheath includes a circumferential wall that strains and circles around the sidewall of the probe, and an infrared window fitted on an opening at the front end of the probe. Since the thickness of the infrared window is thicker than that of the circumferential wall and the infrared window is free of pleats to keep a very uniform thickness, infrared can accurately penetrate through the infrared window to the probe of a tympanic thermometer for measuring a precise body temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Oriental System Technology Inc.
    Inventor: Herman Lee