With Preheated Sensing Probe Patents (Class 374/164)
  • Patent number: 11255731
    Abstract: An infrared detector is provided, and the infrared detector includes: a thermoelectric element; an infrared light absorber, located on and in contact with the thermoelectric element, and configured to absorb infrared light and convert infrared light into heat; an electrical signal detector, electrically connected to the thermoelectric element and configured to detect a change in electrical performance of the thermoelectric element; wherein the infrared light absorber includes a carbon nanotube array, the carbon nanotube array includes a plurality of carbon nanotubes, a height of the plurality of carbon nanotubes are substantially the same, and the plurality of carbon nanotubes are perpendicular to the thermoelectric element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Assignees: Tsinghua University, HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ying-Cheng Wang, Zhong-Zheng Huang, Yuan-Hao Jin, Qun-Qing Li, Shou-Shan Fan
  • Patent number: 10879745
    Abstract: Various techniques for temperature management during inductive energy transfer are disclosed. A transmitter device and/or a receiver device can be turned off during energy transfer based on the temperature of the transmitter device and/or of the receiver device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: APPLE INC.
    Inventors: Amaury J. Heresztyn, Keith Cox, Eric S. Jol, Jeffrey M. Alves, Jim C. Hwang, Jeffrey J. Terlizzi, John M. Ananny, Nagarajan Kalyanasundaram, Robert S. Parnell, Steven G. Herbst, Todd K. Moyer, Albert J. Golko, Frank Liang
  • Patent number: 10405755
    Abstract: A core body temperature monitoring system comprises a first, core body temperature, thermometer and a second thermometer comprising a heat flux sensor. The second thermometer is for application to the skin for providing temperature monitoring over time. The second thermometer is calibrated using an output from the first core body temperature thermometer during an initial measurement operation. The first thermometer is removably attached to the second thermometer, wherein the first thermometer is adapted for use while attached to the second thermometer, and is then removed when the second thermometer is to be used. This system provides calibration of a flux sensor which is applied to the skin, by using an initial core body temperature measurement. In this way, the functionality and usage of a classic core body temperature thermometer is combined with a wearable continuous monitoring capability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Paul Anthony Shrubsole, Edwin Gerardus Johannus Maria Bongers, Hugo Copini
  • Patent number: 10330537
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a thermometer probe includes: obtaining a hollow housing having an open end and a curved inner surface; obtaining a flexible detecting component having an adhesive layer; obtaining an insertion component; detachably attaching the flexible detecting component to the insertion component; inserting the insertion component, having the flexible detecting component attached thereto, through the open end of the hollow housing and into the hollow housing such that the adhesive layer is disposed between the insertion component and the inner surface; and adhering, via the adhesive layer, the flexible detecting component to the curved inner surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventor: Sreenivasan K Koduri
  • Patent number: 10014733
    Abstract: Various techniques for temperature management during inductive energy transfer are disclosed. A transmitter device and/or a receiver device can be turned off during energy transfer based on the temperature of the transmitter device and/or of the receiver device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Amaury J. Heresztyn, Keith Cox, Eric S. Jol, Jeffrey M. Alves, Jim C. Hwang, Jeffrey J. Terlizzi, John M. Ananny, Nagarajan Kalyanasundaram, Robert S. Parnell, Steven G. Herbst, Todd K. Moyer, Albert J. Golko, Frank Liang
  • Patent number: 9952105
    Abstract: A temperature measurement apparatus includes a first temperature sensor disposed so as to be close to a contact surface with an object to be measured in a thickness direction of an apparatus main body, and a second temperature sensor disposed so as to be close to a display unit in the thickness direction of the apparatus main body. The display unit is switched between a first display state and a second display state by switching a mark between display and non-display. An internal temperature of the object to be measured is calculated by using a detected temperature in the first temperature sensor and a detected temperature in the second temperature sensor in the first display state, and a detected temperature in the first temperature sensor and a detected temperature in the second temperature sensor in the second display state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Sakiko Shimizu, Akira Ikeda
  • Patent number: 9859594
    Abstract: A technology is discussed for a wireless transfer station that is operable to communicate management information. Measurement information can be received from one or more other wireless transfer stations. The measurement information can be aggregated from the one or more other wireless transfer stations. The measurement information can be analyzed to determine a status of the one or more wireless transfer stations using the aggregated energy measurement information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Enovate Medical, LLC
    Inventors: David R. Miller, Allen Kilbourne, Mary Metelko
  • Patent number: 9068898
    Abstract: A thermometer includes first and second surface temperature measurement units, first and second reference temperature measurement units, a storage unit, a temperature correction unit, and a temperature calculation unit. The first reference temperature measurement unit measures a temperature at an opposite side of the first surface temperature measurement unit as a first reference temperature through a first heat insulating portion having a first thermal resistance value. The second reference temperature measurement unit measures a temperature at an opposite side of the second surface temperature measurement unit as a second reference temperature through a second heat insulating portion having a second thermal resistance value. The temperature correction unit corrects the first surface temperature and the first reference temperature based on the second surface temperature and the second reference temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Sakiko Shimizu
  • Patent number: 8996096
    Abstract: A temperature probe includes a shaft having a distal end, a proximal end, and a tip disposed at the distal end. The probe also includes an infrared sensor configured to measure a temperature of a structure disposed proximate the shaft. The probe further includes a temperature sensor disposed distal to the infrared sensor. The temperature sensor is configured to measure a body cavity temperature of a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Welch Allyn, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew J. Kinsley, Michael J. Anson, John A. Lane, David E. Quinn
  • Patent number: 8834019
    Abstract: A non-contact infrared (IR) thermometer for measuring temperature from the surface of an object includes an IR radiation sensor attached to a heating element and a thermal shield having an interior surface positioned within the sensor's field of view that has a high emissivity. An electronic circuit controlling the heating element maintains the temperatures of the sensor and shield substantially close to an anticipated surface temperature of the object. The IR radiation sensor is further thermally coupled to a reference temperature sensor. An optical system positioned in front of the shield focuses thermal radiation from the object on the surface of the sensor, while the shield prevents stray radiation from reaching the sensor. Signals from the IR and reference sensors are used to calculate the object's surface temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Helen of Troy Limited
    Inventor: Jacob Fraden
  • Publication number: 20140219315
    Abstract: A disclosed chemical detection system for detecting a target material, such as an explosive material, can include a cantilevered probe, a probe heater coupled to the cantilevered probe, and a piezoelectric element disposed on the cantilevered probe. The piezoelectric element can be configured as a detector and/or an actuator. Detection can include, for example, detecting a movement of the cantilevered probe or a property of the cantilevered probe. The movement or a change in the property of the cantilevered probe can occur, for example, by adsorption of the target material, desorption of the target material, reaction of the target material and/or phase change of the target material. Examples of detectable movements and properties include temperature shifts, impedance shifts, and resonant frequency shifts of the cantilevered probe. The overall chemical detection system can be incorporated, for example, into a handheld explosive material detection system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: Board of Regents of the Nevada System of Higher Education, on behalf of the University of Nevada
    Inventors: Jesse D. Adams, Todd A. Sulchek, Stuart C. Feigin
  • Patent number: 8727607
    Abstract: A method of calibrating a heater system for heating a surface of a structure, the heater system including a heater element, a temperature sensor proximate the heater element for outputting a signal indicative of the temperature of the heater element, and a controller for controlling the supply of power to the heater element in dependence on the signal to maintain the temperature of the heater element at a first substantially constant temperature. The method comprises: immersing the structure in a fluid for maintaining the surface of the structure at a second substantially constant temperature; supplying an amount of power to the heater element; receiving the signal from the temperature sensor and determining a temperature at the temperature sensor; and determining a setpoint temperature for controlling the heater element in dependence on the signal and the second substantially constant temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Ultra Electronics Limited
    Inventor: Ian McGregor Stothers
  • Patent number: 8663106
    Abstract: A monitoring system comprises a module having at least one sensor and preferably skin and ambient temperature sensors within a housing. The device may be durable or disposable. The housing may be provided with certain surface features and shapes to facilitate mounting on and interface with the skin of the wearer for more accurate temperature measurement. A receiver may be provided to obtain and display data from the module. The module may also display the output data. The output data comprises both detected and derived data relating to physiological and contextual parameters of the wearer and may be transmitted directly to a local recipient or remotely over a communications network. The system is capable of deriving and predicting the occurrence of a number of physiological and conditional states and events and reporting the same as output data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: BodyMedia, Inc.
    Inventors: John Stivoric, David Andre, Christopher Kasabach, James Hanlon, Suresh Vishnubhatla, Christopher Pacione, Scott Boehmke, Eric Teller, James Gasbarro, Jonathan Farringdon
  • Patent number: 8573843
    Abstract: Provided is a temperature measuring device capable of continuously measuring a body temperature without imposing a load on a subject or a measurer. The temperature measuring device includes: a temperature measuring unit (10, 210) to be attached to an object to be measured, including a temperature measuring unit-side temperature sensing element (21, 221) and a first coil (11, 211); and a power supplying unit (30, 230) including a second coil (31, 231), for supplying power to the temperature measuring unit (10, 210), in which the temperature measuring unit (10, 210) and the power supplying unit (30, 230) are formed integrally with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Citizen Holdings Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masato Tsuchida
  • Patent number: 8562209
    Abstract: The invention discloses a method to control the work of electronic thermometer by using the position of probe. The probe incased in a disposable sheath, wherein the pre-heating mechanism in the probe and the control switch is connected with the host of the electronic thermometer by wires; and by using the axial reciprocating motion of the probe to trigger the control switch to initiate the electronic thermometer. When using the invention, we use the movement for the assembling of the sheath to initiate the hearting process and measurement, to ensure that the disposable sheath is assembled on the probe, and then execute the measurement, so as to eliminate the possibility of cross infection completely. The invention also exempts the requirement for the users to the return back of the probe into the cavity after use, and brings convenience for the users: Meanwhile, the equipment structure is simple, and the machinery assembles are few by comparison, which effectively decrease the production cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Edan Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Zhidong Yu, Lingfeng Kong, Zhao Qin
  • Patent number: 8496377
    Abstract: A medical measurement device, such as an electronic thermometer, having a probe. The probe includes a molded plastic substrate having a conductive circuit pattern formed directly on its surface. The circuit pattern extends at least from a first end margin of the molded plastic substrate to a second end margin opposite the first. The device also includes a sensor mounted on the molded plastic substrate for detecting a physiological parameter, such as temperature. The sensor is positioned on the molded plastic substrate at the first end margin by at least one positioning element integrally formed in the substrate. The conductive circuit pattern provides an electrical connection between the sensor and a processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: James Harr, Joseph T. Gierer
  • Patent number: 8454229
    Abstract: Two vertically offset thermistors for sensing a fluid such as oil and refrigerant in a compressor shell are monitored by a method that takes into account rapidly changing conditions within the shell. The system can determine the fluid's sump temperature, high/low liquid levels, and can determine whether the thermistors are sensing the fluid as a liquid, gas, or a mixture of the two, such as a foam or mist of liquid and gas. For greater accuracy, thermistor readings can be dithered and filtered to provide temperature or voltage values having more significant digits than the readings originally processed through a limited-bit A/D converter. For faster response, limited microprocessor time is conserved by sampling thermistor readings at strategic periods that enable the microprocessor to identify certain conditions and temperatures via simple delta-temperature ratios and undemanding equations rather than resorting to exponential functions or lookup tables to determine time constants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Trane International Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald W. Okoren, Jerry E. Brown, Joel C. VanderZee, Charles E. Nelson, Steven K. Klingemann, Jeffrey J. DeGroot
  • Patent number: 8393787
    Abstract: Two vertically offset thermistors for sensing a fluid such as oil and refrigerant in a compressor shell are monitored by a method that takes into account rapidly changing conditions within the shell. The system can determine the fluid's sump temperature, high/low liquid levels, and can determine whether the thermistors are sensing the fluid as a liquid, gas, or a mixture of the two, such as a foam or mist of liquid and gas. For greater accuracy, thermistor readings can be dithered and filtered to provide temperature or voltage values having more significant digits than the readings originally processed through a limited-bit A/D converter. For faster response, limited microprocessor time is conserved by sampling thermistor readings at strategic periods that enable the microprocessor to identify certain conditions and temperatures via simple delta-temperature ratios and undemanding equations rather than resorting to exponential functions or lookup tables to determine time constants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Trane International Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald W. Okoren, Jerry E. Brown, Joel C. VanderZee, Charles E. Nelson, Steven K. Klingemann, Jeffrey J. DeGroot
  • Patent number: 8348501
    Abstract: A sensor for detecting icing conditions in an airstream includes a flow housing mounted on an aircraft and in which one or more probes are mounted. At least one of the probes subjected to impingement of the airstream and liquid moisture droplets in such airstream. The heat removal, or cooling effect on the probe in the airstream carrying liquid droplets is determined. A temperature signal indicating the airstream temperature is combined with signals from the at least one probe for determining whether or not icing conditions are present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventor: John A. Severson
  • Patent number: 8322921
    Abstract: A detection device is provided for detecting a temperature of an object, especially of a living being. The detection device may be connected to at least one temperature sensor and is designed to send a current for detecting the temperature to the temperature sensor and to receive at least one temperature signal, which represents a temperature of the temperature sensor. The detection device is designed to generate a temperature signal, which represents the temperature of the object, as a function of the temperature signal of the temperature sensor, and to send same on the output side. The detection device is designed to generate a heating current and to send the heating current to the temperature sensor during a heating time period, so that a total current, comprising the current for detecting the temperature and the heating current, is greater than the current for detecting the temperature, and thus to heat the temperature sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventor: Henning Gerder
  • Patent number: 8306774
    Abstract: A thermometer for determining the temperature of an animal's ear drum. The thermometer includes a probe, an infrared-radiation detector adapted to receive infrared radiation emitted by the ear drum, and devices that help insure that the probe is disposed in a desired position in the ear canal so as to optimize the infrared radiation received from the ear drum, and to minimize the infrared radiation received from other ear parts. A method of using the thermometer is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventors: David E. Quinn, John A. Lane, Scott A. Martin, Craig M. Meyerson, Matthew D. Mullin, Henry J. Smith, III, Ray D. Stone
  • Patent number: 8303177
    Abstract: A pre-heat type clinical thermometer includes a pre-heat box, which is provided with an external heating module, a first terminal set and a control circuit, and a thermometer, which has a second terminal set, a temperature measurement module and an internal heating module. When the thermometer is inserted into the pre-heat box, the first terminal set and the second terminal set are electrically connected, and the control circuit controls the supply of electricity to the external heating module and the internal heating module to pre-heat the sensor tip and front neck of the thermometer subject to the temperature level of the sensor tip measured by the temperature measurement module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventor: Hsueh-Yu Lu
  • Patent number: 8197132
    Abstract: An electronic thermometer is configured for selectable predictive modes based upon the same predictive algorithm. A mode selector is adapted for user selection between several modes of operation of the thermometer. Each mode of operation utilizes the same predictive algorithm for estimating the temperature of the subject before the thermometer reaches full equilibrium. Different modes offer users a selection for striking the appropriate balance between response time and precision, based upon user preferences and needs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: Michael E. Bisch, Joseph T. Gierer
  • Patent number: 8182140
    Abstract: A sensor for detecting icing conditions in an airstream includes a flow housing mounted on an aircraft and in which one or more probes are mounted. At least one of the probes subjected to impingement of the airstream and liquid moisture droplets in such airstream. The heat removal, or cooling effect on the probe in the airstream carrying liquid droplets is determined. A temperature signal indicating the airstream temperature is combined with signals from the at least one probe for determining whether or not icing conditions are present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventor: John A. Severson
  • Patent number: 8177422
    Abstract: A system and method for automatic analysis of temperature transition data over an area of a sample surface. The system relies on the use of a microfabricated probe, which can be rapidly heated and cooled and has a sharp tip to provide high spatial resolution. The system also has fast x-y-z positioners, data collection, and algorithms that allow automatic analysis of and visualization of temperature transition data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Anasys Instruments
    Inventors: Kevin Kjoller, Khoren Sahagian, Doug Gotthard, Anthony Kurtz, Craig Prater, Roshan Shetty, Michael Reading
  • Patent number: 8152369
    Abstract: An internal combustion engine includes an exhaust gas feedstream flowing past a gas sensing device disposed therein. The gas sensor includes an integrated electrical heating element which provides a resistance indicative of its temperature. An unknown input observer is used to determine the exhaust gas feedstream temperature based on the heating element temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Qi Ma, Julian R. Verdejo, Nicholas John Kalweit
  • Publication number: 20110243187
    Abstract: A pre-heat type clinical thermometer includes a pre-heat box, which is provided with an external heating module, a first terminal set and a control circuit, and a thermometer, which has a second terminal set, a temperature measurement module and an internal heating module. When the thermometer is inserted into the pre-heat box, the first terminal set and the second terminal set are electrically connected, and the control circuit controls the supply of electricity to the external heating module and the internal heating module to pre-heat the sensor tip and front neck of the thermometer subject to the temperature level of the sensor tip measured by the temperature measurement module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventor: Hsueh-Yu Lu
  • Publication number: 20110200069
    Abstract: A detection device is provided for detecting a temperature of an object, especially of a living being. The detection device may be connected to at least one temperature sensor and is designed to send a current for detecting the temperature to the temperature sensor and to receive at least one temperature signal, which represents a temperature of the temperature sensor. The detection device is designed to generate a temperature signal, which represents the temperature of the object, as a function of the temperature signal of the temperature sensor, and to send same on the output side. The detection device is designed to generate a heating current and to send the heating current to the temperature sensor during a heating time period, so that a total current, comprising the current for detecting the temperature and the heating current, is greater than the current for detecting the temperature, and thus to heat the temperature sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventor: Henning Gerder
  • Patent number: 7997793
    Abstract: A thermometric apparatus for determining a patient's temperature having a elongated sensing probe that is connected to a base housing. The insertion tip of the probe contains a outer shell and a spaced apart inner shell. The outer surface of the inner shell has a heater that is fabricated of a resistive thick film material and a heat sensor mounted thereon. The heater and the heat sensor are connected to a pair of thick film conductive traces which in turn are electrically attached by a flexible circuit board to leads running back to the base housing. The space between the two shells is filled by a thermally conductive epoxy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Welch Allyn, Inc.
    Inventors: Ray D. Stone, Richard W. Newman
  • Patent number: 7922388
    Abstract: A detection device is provided for detecting a temperature of an object, especially of a living being. The detection device may be connected to at least one temperature sensor and is designed to send a current for detecting the temperature to the temperature sensor and to receive at least one temperature signal, which represents a temperature of the temperature sensor. The detection device is designed to generate a temperature signal, which represents the temperature of the object, as a function of the temperature signal of the temperature sensor, and to send same on the output side. The detection device is designed to generate a heating current and to send the heating current to the temperature sensor during a heating time period, so that a total current, comprising the current for detecting the temperature and the heating current, is greater than the current for detecting the temperature, and thus to heat the temperature sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventor: Henning Gerder
  • Publication number: 20100329303
    Abstract: The invention discloses a method to control the work of electronic thermometer by using the position of probe. The probe incased in a disposable sheath, wherein the pre-heating mechanism in the probe and the control switch is connected with the host of the electronic thermometer by wires; and by using the axial reciprocating motion of the probe to trigger the control switch to initiate the electronic thermometer. When using the invention, we use the movement for the assembling of the sheath to initiate the hearting process and measurement, to ensure that the disposable sheath is assembled on the probe, and then execute the measurement, so as to eliminate the possibility of cross infection completely. The invention also exempts the requirement for the users to the return back of the probe into the cavity after use, and brings convenience for the users: Meanwhile, the equipment structure is simple, and the machinery assembles are few by comparison, which effectively decrease the production cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: Edan Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Zhidong Yu, Zhao Qin, Lingfeng Kong
  • Patent number: 7841769
    Abstract: An internal combustion engine includes an exhaust gas feedstream flowing past a gas sensing device disposed therein. The gas sensor includes an integrated electrical heating element which provides a resistance indicative of its temperature. An unknown input observer is used to determine the exhaust gas feedstream temperature based on the heating element temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Qi Ma, Julian R. Verdejo, Nicholas John Kalweit
  • Publication number: 20100224015
    Abstract: A probe adaptor assembly includes a probe opening into which a probe can be inserted. The probe is held in place by a compression fitting such that the probe depth, with respect to a longitudinal axis of the assembly, can be adjusted prior to the compression fitting being tightened to secure the probe. A conduit adaptor port is provided. A lubrication fitting provides an opening for a lubricant to be injected into the assembly. The lubrication fitting is coupled to the probe opening so that the lubricant injected into the fitting can exit the probe opening in order to lubricate the system into which the probe is inserted. In one embodiment, the probe adaptor assembly is configured to replace a lubrication fitting for a bearing so that a temperature of the bearing can be monitored while also providing lubrication.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventors: Kris Paxton, Bradley D. Slye
  • Patent number: 7736053
    Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of an improved on-chip temperature sensing circuit, based on bolometry, which provides self calibration of the on-chip temperature sensors for ideality and an associated method of sensing temperature at a specific on-chip location. The circuit comprises a temperature sensor, an identical reference sensor with a thermally coupled heater and a comparator. The comparator is adapted to receive and compare the outputs from both the temperature and reference sensors and to drive the heater with current until the outputs match. Based on the current forced into the heater, the temperature rise of the reference sensor can be calculated, which in this state, is equal to that of the temperature sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: William F. Clark, Jr., Edward J. Nowak
  • Patent number: 7674036
    Abstract: A sensor for detecting icing conditions in an airstream includes a flow housing mounted on an aircraft and in which one or more probes are mounted. At least one of the probes subjected to impingement of the airstream and liquid moisture droplets in such airstream. The heat removal, or cooling effect on the probe in the airstream carrying liquid droplets is determined. A temperature signal indicating the airstream temperature is combined with signals from the at least one probe for determining whether or not icing conditions are present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventor: John A. Severson
  • Publication number: 20100027583
    Abstract: A detector comprises a housing (1), a pyroelectric array sensor (2) mounted within the housing, a heater (4) associated with the pyroelectric array sensor, and control means (6) for varying the power supplied to the heater to control the temperature of the pyroelectric array sensor relative to the ambient temperature in order to minimise the rate of change of temperature of the pyroelectric array sensor and to keep a predetermined difference between the temperature of the pyroelectric array sensor and the ambient temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: Thorn Security Limited
    Inventors: Timothy Andrew James, Dave John Randall
  • Publication number: 20090285260
    Abstract: A thermometric apparatus for determining a patient's temperature having a elongated sensing probe that is connected to a base housing. The insertion tip of the probe contains a outer shell and a spaced apart inner shell. The outer surface of the inner shell has a heater that is fabricated of a resistive thick film material and a heat sensor mounted thereon. The heater and the heat sensor are connected to a pair of thick film conductive traces which in turn are electrically attached by a flexible circuit board to leads running back to the base housing. The space between the two shells is filled by a thermally conductive epoxy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Applicant: Welch Allyn, Inc.
    Inventors: Ray D. Stone, Richard W. Newman
  • Patent number: 7497613
    Abstract: The invention is a heated thermal probe suitable for use in micro-thermal analysis or other high resolution thermal measurements and actions. The probe is, in the preferred embodiment, a microfabricated cantilever with a sharp probe tip of a type used in Scanning Probe Microscopes (SPM's) which further includes an integral resistive heating element. The heating element is formed by doping regions of the cantilever with an ion implant process to make lower resistance connections and a higher resistance heating element. There is no spatial overlap between the base of the probe tip and the heating element or conductors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Anasys Instruments
    Inventors: William P. King, Mike Reading
  • Publication number: 20090016408
    Abstract: A method and system for efficiently extending the operating temperature range of high power components within a system/device. An embedded monitor measures local temperatures such as junction temperatures of components. When the measured temperature is less than the lowest operational temperature threshold of the component, temperature control logic initiates pre-heating to raise the component's temperature to an operational level, utilizing a heating source. The component (or device) is made operational only when the temperature is at or above the operational level. The temperature control logic maintains the operational temperature of the component using the high power dissipated by components within the operating system/device as a self heating source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2007
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventors: Edward D. Doan, Anthony P. Ferranti, Gary E. O'Neil
  • Publication number: 20080273573
    Abstract: A detection device is provided for detecting a temperature of an object, especially of a living being. The detection device may be connected to at least one temperature sensor and is designed to send a current for detecting the temperature to the temperature sensor and to receive at least one temperature signal, which represents a temperature of the temperature sensor. The detection device is designed to generate a temperature signal, which represents the temperature of the object, as a function of the temperature signal of the temperature sensor, and to send same on the output side. The detection device is designed to generate a heating current and to send the heating current to the temperature sensor during a heating time period, so that a total current, comprising the current for detecting the temperature and the heating current, is greater than the current for detecting the temperature, and thus to heat the temperature sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2008
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Applicant: Drager Safety AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventor: Henning Gerder
  • Publication number: 20080205478
    Abstract: A urea sensor includes a detecting portion which, in use, is immersed in a liquid accommodated in a urea solution tank for detecting the thermal conductivity of the liquid to detect whether the liquid accommodated in the urea solution tank is an aqueous urea solution; and an enclosing member enclosing a periphery of the detecting portion and including one or more vents penetrating the enclosing member. At least one of the vents is a lower vent being of a configuration and size such that a first hypothetical circle having a diameter of not less than 3.5 mm can be wholly contained within the lower vent. At least a portion of the lower vent is positioned below the detecting portion when the urea sensor is positioned for installation in the urea solution tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2008
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventors: Takeo SASANUMA, Yoshikuni Sato, Akihiro Yoshida
  • Patent number: 7416329
    Abstract: A sensor for detecting icing conditions in an airstream includes a flow housing mounted on an aircraft and in which one or more probes are mounted. At least one of the probes subjected to impingement of the airstream and liquid moisture droplets in such airstream. The heat removal, or cooling effect on the probe in the airstream carrying liquid droplets is determined. A temperature signal indicating the airstream temperature is combined with signals from the at least one probe for determining whether or not icing conditions are present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace Inc.
    Inventor: John A. Severson
  • Publication number: 20080075143
    Abstract: A digital thermometer is provided that gives audible feedback when the thermometer is properly positioned and can give audible directions to reposition the thermometer and start the process again when the thermometer ceases to be properly positioned. A probe has a temperature sensor at a first end adapted to be inserted into the mouth and under the tongue, and a housing portion at the second end. A display component displays the measured temperature. An audio component plays music while the probe is properly positioned and issues a command to try again when the probe ceases to be properly positioned. Electronic circuitry receives a temperature signal from the temperature sensor, translates the signal into a value representative of the measured temperature, and provides the translated value to the display for displaying the temperature. Electronic circuitry also detects improper positioning of the probe by detecting a rapid decrease in temperature at the temperature sensing end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Publication date: March 27, 2008
    Inventors: Vanessa Lampke-Honeyghan, Charles W. Miga
  • Patent number: 7314310
    Abstract: A system and method for preheating the thermometer probe of an electronic thermometer to a temperature closer to the temperature of the patient to be monitored. The system includes a thermometer probe that includes a heater, temperature sensor and proximity sensor, each coupled to a processor for controlling the operation of the electronic thermometer. The proximity sensor positioned within the thermometer probe generates a contact signal when the thermometer probe is positioned in close proximity to the patient. Upon receiving the contact signal, the processor disables the operation of the heater and begins the process of estimating the patient temperature. By utilizing a separate proximity sensor, the temperature of the probe tip can be elevated to the normal human body temperature, which allows the temperature estimation to be completed more rapidly and allows the thermometer to function at higher ambient temperature environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: The General Electric Company
    Inventor: Richard Medero
  • Patent number: 7284904
    Abstract: An electronic clinical thermometer has a probe including a temperature sensor and a heat flux sensor which are controlled to make measurements at specified time intervals. The measured values are used in solving the equation of heat conduction to estimate the temperature of an internal body position. A heater may be included to preheat a body part in order to reduce the time required for measurement. The probe may use two temperature sensors to measure temperatures at two body surface positions through insulating members which are different in thermal conductivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: OMRON Corporation
    Inventors: Muneo Tokita, Satoshi Nakajima, Shigeru Makita
  • Patent number: 7073937
    Abstract: A heat emitting probe including a conductive nanotube probe needle with its base end fastened to a holder and its tip end protruded, a heat emitting body formed on the probe needle, a conductive nanotube lead wire fastened to the heat emitting body, and an electric current supply that causes an electric current to pass through the conductive nanotube lead wire and both ends of the probe needle. The tip end of the probe needle is thus heated by an electric current flowing through the heat emitting body. A heat emitting probe apparatus includes the above-described heat emitting probe, a scanning mechanism that allows the heat emitting probe to scan over a thermal recording medium, and a control circuit that causes the tip end of the probe needle to emit heat, thus recording extremely small hole patterns in the surface of a thermal recording medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignees: Yoshikaza Nakayama, Daiken Chemical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshikazu Nakayama, Akio Harada
  • Patent number: 7059767
    Abstract: An electronic clinical thermometer has a probe including a temperature sensor and a heat flux sensor which are controlled to make measurements at specified time intervals. The measured values are used in solving the equation of heat conduction to estimate the temperature of an internal body position. A heater may be included to preheat a body part in order to reduce the time required for measurement. The probe may use two temperature sensors to measure temperatures at two body surface positions through insulating members which are different in thermal conductivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: OMRON Corporation
    Inventors: Muneo Tokita, Satoshi Nakajima, Shigeru Makita
  • Patent number: 7038996
    Abstract: Described is a method for reading an array of sensors having a set of row conductors each connected to the sensors in a corresponding row of the array and a set of column conductors each connected to the sensors in a corresponding column of the array such that each sensor is connected between a row conductor and a column conductor. The method comprises: for each row of sensors in the array, performing a read cycle comprising applying an activation pulse to the corresponding row conductor to activate the sensors in the row, applying a reading pulse to the row conductor on expiry of a predetermined time interval from an edge of the activation pulse, and during the reading pulse, detecting, for each sensor in the row, a value dependent on a variable characteristic of that sensor. The read cycle for at least one row is commenced during the predetermined time interval of the read cycle for another row.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corp.
    Inventors: Gerd K. Binnig, Urs T. Duerig
  • Patent number: 7014358
    Abstract: The invention relates to an infrared thermometer, especially an ear thermometer for measuring temperature, comprising an infrared sensor, a measuring tip which can be heated by a heating element, an actuating device which can be operated by a user, a control device and a display device. The invention also relates to a method for measuring temperature, especially by means of a radiation thermometer having a heatable measuring tip. Said control device switches off the heating element after the user has actuated an actuating device. After a certain amount of time, multiple temperature measurements are successively carried out, and the temperature to be displayed is determined from said measured temperatures or an error message is generated. At the latest, after a maximum measuring time has elapsed or after a maximum number of temperatures have been measured, the temperature to be displayed or an error message is displayed on the display device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Braun GmbH
    Inventors: Bernhard Kraus, Alexander Klös
  • Patent number: 6971790
    Abstract: A method in which thermal mass and manufacturing differences are compensated for in thermometry probes by storing characteristic data relating to individual probes into an EEPROM for each probe which is used by the temperature apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Welch Allyn, Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Quinn, Kenneth J. Burdick, Ray D. Stone, John Lane, William N. Cuipylo