CA1199727A - Apparatus for determining ovulation in women - Google Patents
Apparatus for determining ovulation in womenInfo
- Publication number
- CA1199727A CA1199727A CA000424677A CA424677A CA1199727A CA 1199727 A CA1199727 A CA 1199727A CA 000424677 A CA000424677 A CA 000424677A CA 424677 A CA424677 A CA 424677A CA 1199727 A CA1199727 A CA 1199727A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- temperature
- sensor
- micro
- processor
- lead
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B10/00—Other methods or instruments for diagnosis, e.g. instruments for taking a cell sample, for biopsy, for vaccination diagnosis; Sex determination; Ovulation-period determination; Throat striking implements
- A61B10/0012—Ovulation-period determination
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01K—MEASURING TEMPERATURE; MEASURING QUANTITY OF HEAT; THERMALLY-SENSITIVE ELEMENTS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G01K13/00—Thermometers specially adapted for specific purposes
- G01K13/20—Clinical contact thermometers for use with humans or animals
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B10/00—Other methods or instruments for diagnosis, e.g. instruments for taking a cell sample, for biopsy, for vaccination diagnosis; Sex determination; Ovulation-period determination; Throat striking implements
- A61B10/0012—Ovulation-period determination
- A61B2010/0019—Ovulation-period determination based on measurement of temperature
Abstract
ABSTRACT
An apparatus is proposed for providing simple, reliable determination of ovulation in women, and which is also simple and safe to operate, has a temperature-sensor adapted to be placed upon the skin, a micro-processor connected to the temperature-sensor, and an indicating and signaling device connected to the said micro-processor.
An apparatus is proposed for providing simple, reliable determination of ovulation in women, and which is also simple and safe to operate, has a temperature-sensor adapted to be placed upon the skin, a micro-processor connected to the temperature-sensor, and an indicating and signaling device connected to the said micro-processor.
Description
The invention relates to an apparatus for determining ovulation in women.
For the purpose of avoiding cOnGeptiOn, it is known, among other things, for a woman to measure her body-temperature on such days as she expects ovulation. If her body temperature increases by a specific amount in relation to her normal body temperature, this is a sign of ovulation. It is usual to measure body-temperature once daily, by means of a rectal thermometer.
This temperature~measurement method also serves to predict the most favourable time for conception. ~ knowledge of this time is desirable when intentional fertilization of the mature ovum is to be effected. Fertilization of the ovum should be undertaken when the measured body-temperature is above normal, indicatiny ovulation. This increase in temperature is usuall~
the same in a given woman. However t what does fluctuate periodically in a given woman is the relevant normal temperature, such fluctuation being caused, for example, by changes in metabolism, changes in ambient temperature/ and chanyes in the state of health. It is also conceivable for the normal body temperature to vary in response to various psycholoyical situations encountered by a woman. It is thus not a simple '7~7 matter for a woman to determine ovulation by the temperature-measurement method, since she must not only measure her body-temperature daily, but she must also know her normal body-temperature in order to determine the difference.
It is the purpose of the present invention to provide an apparatus for simple and reliable determination of ovulation in women which is also simple and safe to operate.
The present apparatus for determining ovulation in women, comprises a temperature-sensor secured to the body or in an opening in the body, a thermometer connected to the temperature-sensor, and an indicating and/or signalling device connected to the thermometer. It is desirable for the thermometer to comprise a micro-processor into-which other values may also be fed.
In contrast to the conventional temperature-measurement method, in which rectal temperature is determined, this arrange-ment has the advantage that the temperature-sensor may be left in place throughout the period during which ovulation is expected, thus eliminating possible errors arising from daily reintroduction of the thermometer into the rectum.
The use of a micro-processor has the advantage that it is used not merely to measure the momentary temperature of the womanls body a-t the surface supporting the temperature-sensor.
Instead, temperature-values characteristic of ovulation, obtained externally, are also fed to, and stored in, the micro-processor from the temperature-sensor. Moreover, the times at which the temperature is measured and/or the intervals between the temperature-measurements may be fed to, and stored in, the micro-processor.
The indicating device is preferably of the digital type and is adapted to display momentary body-temperatures at the surface supporting -the temperature-sensor and also temperature-values from the outside which are fed to and stored in the micro-
For the purpose of avoiding cOnGeptiOn, it is known, among other things, for a woman to measure her body-temperature on such days as she expects ovulation. If her body temperature increases by a specific amount in relation to her normal body temperature, this is a sign of ovulation. It is usual to measure body-temperature once daily, by means of a rectal thermometer.
This temperature~measurement method also serves to predict the most favourable time for conception. ~ knowledge of this time is desirable when intentional fertilization of the mature ovum is to be effected. Fertilization of the ovum should be undertaken when the measured body-temperature is above normal, indicatiny ovulation. This increase in temperature is usuall~
the same in a given woman. However t what does fluctuate periodically in a given woman is the relevant normal temperature, such fluctuation being caused, for example, by changes in metabolism, changes in ambient temperature/ and chanyes in the state of health. It is also conceivable for the normal body temperature to vary in response to various psycholoyical situations encountered by a woman. It is thus not a simple '7~7 matter for a woman to determine ovulation by the temperature-measurement method, since she must not only measure her body-temperature daily, but she must also know her normal body-temperature in order to determine the difference.
It is the purpose of the present invention to provide an apparatus for simple and reliable determination of ovulation in women which is also simple and safe to operate.
The present apparatus for determining ovulation in women, comprises a temperature-sensor secured to the body or in an opening in the body, a thermometer connected to the temperature-sensor, and an indicating and/or signalling device connected to the thermometer. It is desirable for the thermometer to comprise a micro-processor into-which other values may also be fed.
In contrast to the conventional temperature-measurement method, in which rectal temperature is determined, this arrange-ment has the advantage that the temperature-sensor may be left in place throughout the period during which ovulation is expected, thus eliminating possible errors arising from daily reintroduction of the thermometer into the rectum.
The use of a micro-processor has the advantage that it is used not merely to measure the momentary temperature of the womanls body a-t the surface supporting the temperature-sensor.
Instead, temperature-values characteristic of ovulation, obtained externally, are also fed to, and stored in, the micro-processor from the temperature-sensor. Moreover, the times at which the temperature is measured and/or the intervals between the temperature-measurements may be fed to, and stored in, the micro-processor.
The indicating device is preferably of the digital type and is adapted to display momentary body-temperatures at the surface supporting -the temperature-sensor and also temperature-values from the outside which are fed to and stored in the micro-
2`7 processor. The same applies to temperature-measurement times and temperature-measurement intervals fed to, and s-tored in, the said micro-processor.
~ccording to one specific example, the temperature-sensor is adapted to measure temperature~differences, since only -these are valid in determining ovulation. The apparatus is used as follows:
when the woman's body-temperature is still normal, the apparatus is applied and the woman's normal body temperature is measured with the temperature-sensor. This normal temperature is associated with a basic value which is fed into the micro-processor and is stored therein. It can be called up thence a-t any time and displayed optically on the indicating device. In addition to the basic value, a reference-value is fed to the micro-processor. In relation to the said basic value, this reference value corresponds to the increase in the woman's body temperature from which ovulation can be concluded. This reference-value can also be called up from the micro-processor at any time and displayed on the indicating device. In this example, in which a temperature-difference is determined, it is thus 2~ ~nnecessary to know the woman's normal body~temperature. What is of interest is the basic value associated with the normal temperature and the reference value. The apparatus is preferably in the form of a band adapted to be secured to one of the woman's extremities and containing the temperature-sensor, the micro-processor connected thereto, and the indicating device connectedto the latter. The said temperature-sensor must in this case be arranged on the side of the band facing the skin. The band may be applied to an arm or a leg.
In order to ensure that the temperature-sensor always bears closely against the body, the band should be resilient and preferably ad~ustable. It is preferably provided with a housing containing the temperature-sensort the micro-processor~ and the indicating device, so that the apparatus may be worn like a conventional watch. The temperature-sensor is preferably arranged upon the under-surface of the housing. Thus when the band is tightened, the sensor lies securely upon the skin while 2~
the apparatus is being worn and no measurement-errors arise.
It is an advantage for the said housing also to contain a watch. In this case, a lead between the watch and the processor makes it possible to prese-t -the times at which temper~ture determinations are to be made. This allows the temperature to be taken during the night, while the woman sleeps, and to be stored in the micro-processor. When she arises in the morning, she can call up the temperature from the micro-processor and read it off.
The source of power for the apparatus is in the form of a battery, which means that the said apparatus is not tied to a particular location. The design of the temperature-sensor should be such as to permit the determination of temperature differences by means of a temperature-dependent resistor.
Temperatures measurable at the outer skin fluctuate relatively rapidly, but these fluctuations do not appear in the body-temperature. In order to measure, as far as possible, only fluctuations in body-temperature, the temperature-sensor should be attached to the surface of the body at a location suitable for measuring body-temperature fluctuations. Such locations are the armpi-t, the groin near the vagina, the vagina itself, and also the auditory canal. If the temperature is measured in the groin or the armpit, the previously mentioned band may easily be used to carry the parts of the apparatus, and is applied to the upper arm or upper thigh. The said band should be resilient, to ensure that it is not displaced and that it does not shut off the circulation.
If the temperature-sensor is fitted in the auditory canal, it cannot be used with the previously mentioned band. Instead, it must be separated from the other parts, so that it may be located where desired and connected through a lead to the thermo-meter, preferably to the micro-processor. If the temperature-sensor is arranged in the auditory canal, it is shaped like the ear-plug of a hearing aid or is arranged upon a suitably shaped carrier. The lead may then be passed from the temperature-sensor, ~ 3~Y
.,~ ~ o ~ s i.e. from the ear, along the body, to the micro-processor. As previously indicated, the micro-processor and the other parts of the apparatus may be arranged upon a band carried on the arm, for example, to which the lead from the temperature-sensor passes underneath the clothin~. Even if the temperature-sensor is fitted in the armpit, it is desirable to arrange it separately from the other parts, for example on a second band which is fitted to the upper arm and from which a lead runs to the thermometer, preferably the micro-processor, the said micro-processor and the other parts being arranged upon a braceletfitted to the wrist. Finally, the temperature-sensor may be located, separately from the other parts, on the side, facing the body, of a piece of foil adhering thereto.
When the temperature-sensor is introduced into the vagina, a ]ead runs thence to the thermometer. In order to secure the lead and the sensor in the vagina, the part of the lead inserted into the vagina is passed through a tampon~ Is is also possible to secure the lead to the tampon, more particularly by moulding it to the central part of the tampon. The said tampon is used as for menstruation. In order to avoid any discomfort for the woman wearing the tampon and apparatus, the said tampon is inserted as far as the middle portion of the vagina where there are few sensory nerves. As in the case of tampons used for menstruation, this tampon is made of absorbent material, more particularly cotton-wool. When the tampon is in the woman's vagina, the surface thereof against the wall of the vagina absorbs the vaginal secretions, so that the surface of the tampon lies against the wall of the vagina. This largely eliminates any possibility of the tampon being displaced while the woman is walking or seated, so that the part of the lead passing through the tampon, and the temperature-sensor located at the end thereof, assumes a specific position within the vagina.
Finally, the tampon is provided with a recovery tape for removal from the vagina.
According to another ccnfiguration of the invention~ the part of the lead adap-ted to be inserted into the vagina comprises a thickened section in the form of a rubber ball. Like a tampon, this thickened section is located in the central part of the vagina and thus remains largely in place when the wearer is walking or seated. The said thickened section is removed from the vagina quite simply by withdrawing the lead therefrom.
According to one preferred embodiment of the invention, a housing containing the thermometer and the signalling device is adapted to be attached in the hip area. The signalling device itself may be in the form of an acoustic device or of a hot-]0 plate, the surface of which faces -the bodyO Also conceivable is a combination of both an acoustic and a thermal signal. If information reaches the signalling device, via the temperature-sensor, indicating that a temperature-difference has been detected, leading to the conclusion that ovulation is in progress, this signal is passed to the thermal and/or the acoustical part of the signalling device. A thermal signal is used when a discreet indication of ovulation is required, the heat from the hot-plate being felt acting upon the skin. An acoustic signal is used in circumstances when the heat from -the hot-plate might not be noticed, for example when the wearer is sleeping and an acoustical signal is needed to ensure that she is alerted.
Preferred embodiments will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 is a side elevation of a female body with a detail showing the genital organs;
Fig. 2 is a plan view of the apparatus according to the inven~ion designed as a bracelet; and Fig. 3 is a section through the apparatus along the line A-A in Fig. 2.
The female body as a whole is markad 30. The area in the vicinity of the genital organs shows the vagina 1, the urethra 2, the rectum 3, the uterus ~, the Fal~opian tubes 5 and the ovaries 6.
Part of a flexible lead 8 is inserted through inlet 7 into the woman's vagina 1, the said lead containing a temperature-sensor 9. In order to prevent the said lead from slipping unwantedly out of the vagina, the end of the lead near the temperature-sensor is passed through a tampon 10 and is moulded thereto in such a manner as to prevent displacement of the lead in the direction of the central axis of the said tampon. At the end near the inlet to the vagina, the tampon is equipped with a recovery tape 11 which allows it to be removed from the vagina. At the vagina-inlet end of the tampon, lead 8 is interrupted by a plug-and-socket connection 12. In the interests of hygiene, the tampon, with the part of lead 8 passing therethrough and the temperature-sensor 9, may thus be replaced a~ter use, and these components may therefore be regarded as disposable. It is also possible, however, not to mould the lead to the tampon, but merely to pass it therethrough.
In this case only the tampon need be replaced after use, i.e. the said lead and temperature-sensor are merely passed through a fresh tampon 10~ In this case, the tampon can be removed only by means of the recovery tape, whereas if the lead is moulded to the tampon, the latter may be removed from khe vagina by withdrawing the lead. Finally, it is conceivable to locate plug-and-soc~et connection 12 at a point in lead 8 so that it does not come to rest within the vagina, but is located elsewhere outside the body 30.
The part of lead ~ running externally of ~ody 30 connects temperature-sensor 9 to a signalling device 13. The latter consists of a selector-part 14, a scale 15 associated therewith, an acoustical signalling device 16, a hot-plate 17 shown in dotted lines, a three-position switch 1~, and a battery arranged internally and therefore not visible.
If a woman desires to determine the time of ovulation, then, at a time when her body-temperature is still normal, she inserts 3c the flexible lead 8 into her vagina until the tampon comes to rest in the central section thereof. Since at this point -the vagina has scarcely any sensory nerves, the apparatus can definitely be worn in comfort. A belt 19 is used to secure the signalling device 13 in the vicinity of -the hips, in such a manner that the hot-plate 17 is in contact with the skin oE the body 30. The signalling device is set in operation by means of switch 20.
Determination of the basic value, which is related to normal body-tempera-ture, is carried out by adjusting a corres-ponding circuit in the signalling device 13. The basic value is determined by cutting-in a series of circuits containing variable resistors until one resistor in one circuit is matched exactly with an NTC resistor representing a specific temperature.
The cutting-in process as such is effected by means of a rotatable selector-part 14. In setting the device, it will usually be convenient to adjust the three-position switch 18 in such a manner that, when two resistors match, the acoustic signalling device 16, located in signalling device 13, is activated. It would also be possible, however, to adjust the said three-position switch in such a manner that only the hot-plate 17 is activated, or that both the hot-plate 17 and the acoustic signalling device 16 are activated.
Thus a knowledge of the normal body-temperature is not needed in determining the basic value and for reasons of simplicity, the value zero should be assigned thereto.
The temperature in excess of normal body-temperature at which ovulation takes place is an empirical value. In accordance with this temperature-difference, selector-part 14 is rotated over scale 15 by units representing temperature-differences, in the direction of increasing values. The result of this is an interruption in the signal from signalling device 16. Once ovulation has taken place, acoustic signalling device 16 will be activated again, thus passing the information on to the woman wearing the apparatus. ~Iowever) it is also possible, by selective operation of three-position switch 18, to cause g the signalling device 13 to release purely thermal or combined acoustical-thermal information relating to the presence of ovulation.
As may be seen in Fig. 2, a two-piece bracelet 101 carries a housing 102. Arran~ed in a housing wall 104, which faces the surface of th~ body when the apparatus is being worn, is a temperature-sensor 103. An outer housing wall 105 accommodates, in appropriate recesses, buttons 106, 107 and a digital display 108. The housing 102 also contains a micro-processor 109, a watch~part 110, and a battery 111. The temperature-sensor 103, the buttons 106, 107, the digital display 108, the micro-processor 109, the watch-part 110, and the battery 111 constitute a circuit.
The buttons 106 are used to take-in and release all the values relating to temperature-measurement which are to be determined and stored. The buttons 107 are for the watch-part 110. All the functions of the wa-tch, as well as temperatures, temperature-differences, temperature-measurement intervals, etc.
can be shown on the display 108.
When the apparatus according to the invention is used by a woman, after she has fitted it she can, by actuating the buttons 106, 107, determine her basic temperature, assign to it a reference value, indicate simultaneously the time at which the body-temperature is to be measured and, if necessary, several consecutive times. It is also possible to store such temperature sequences~ so that the woman can subsequently verify when the temperature indicating ovulation was reached.
The band 101, preferably designed as a bracelet, is preferably resilient.
~ccording to one specific example, the temperature-sensor is adapted to measure temperature~differences, since only -these are valid in determining ovulation. The apparatus is used as follows:
when the woman's body-temperature is still normal, the apparatus is applied and the woman's normal body temperature is measured with the temperature-sensor. This normal temperature is associated with a basic value which is fed into the micro-processor and is stored therein. It can be called up thence a-t any time and displayed optically on the indicating device. In addition to the basic value, a reference-value is fed to the micro-processor. In relation to the said basic value, this reference value corresponds to the increase in the woman's body temperature from which ovulation can be concluded. This reference-value can also be called up from the micro-processor at any time and displayed on the indicating device. In this example, in which a temperature-difference is determined, it is thus 2~ ~nnecessary to know the woman's normal body~temperature. What is of interest is the basic value associated with the normal temperature and the reference value. The apparatus is preferably in the form of a band adapted to be secured to one of the woman's extremities and containing the temperature-sensor, the micro-processor connected thereto, and the indicating device connectedto the latter. The said temperature-sensor must in this case be arranged on the side of the band facing the skin. The band may be applied to an arm or a leg.
In order to ensure that the temperature-sensor always bears closely against the body, the band should be resilient and preferably ad~ustable. It is preferably provided with a housing containing the temperature-sensort the micro-processor~ and the indicating device, so that the apparatus may be worn like a conventional watch. The temperature-sensor is preferably arranged upon the under-surface of the housing. Thus when the band is tightened, the sensor lies securely upon the skin while 2~
the apparatus is being worn and no measurement-errors arise.
It is an advantage for the said housing also to contain a watch. In this case, a lead between the watch and the processor makes it possible to prese-t -the times at which temper~ture determinations are to be made. This allows the temperature to be taken during the night, while the woman sleeps, and to be stored in the micro-processor. When she arises in the morning, she can call up the temperature from the micro-processor and read it off.
The source of power for the apparatus is in the form of a battery, which means that the said apparatus is not tied to a particular location. The design of the temperature-sensor should be such as to permit the determination of temperature differences by means of a temperature-dependent resistor.
Temperatures measurable at the outer skin fluctuate relatively rapidly, but these fluctuations do not appear in the body-temperature. In order to measure, as far as possible, only fluctuations in body-temperature, the temperature-sensor should be attached to the surface of the body at a location suitable for measuring body-temperature fluctuations. Such locations are the armpi-t, the groin near the vagina, the vagina itself, and also the auditory canal. If the temperature is measured in the groin or the armpit, the previously mentioned band may easily be used to carry the parts of the apparatus, and is applied to the upper arm or upper thigh. The said band should be resilient, to ensure that it is not displaced and that it does not shut off the circulation.
If the temperature-sensor is fitted in the auditory canal, it cannot be used with the previously mentioned band. Instead, it must be separated from the other parts, so that it may be located where desired and connected through a lead to the thermo-meter, preferably to the micro-processor. If the temperature-sensor is arranged in the auditory canal, it is shaped like the ear-plug of a hearing aid or is arranged upon a suitably shaped carrier. The lead may then be passed from the temperature-sensor, ~ 3~Y
.,~ ~ o ~ s i.e. from the ear, along the body, to the micro-processor. As previously indicated, the micro-processor and the other parts of the apparatus may be arranged upon a band carried on the arm, for example, to which the lead from the temperature-sensor passes underneath the clothin~. Even if the temperature-sensor is fitted in the armpit, it is desirable to arrange it separately from the other parts, for example on a second band which is fitted to the upper arm and from which a lead runs to the thermometer, preferably the micro-processor, the said micro-processor and the other parts being arranged upon a braceletfitted to the wrist. Finally, the temperature-sensor may be located, separately from the other parts, on the side, facing the body, of a piece of foil adhering thereto.
When the temperature-sensor is introduced into the vagina, a ]ead runs thence to the thermometer. In order to secure the lead and the sensor in the vagina, the part of the lead inserted into the vagina is passed through a tampon~ Is is also possible to secure the lead to the tampon, more particularly by moulding it to the central part of the tampon. The said tampon is used as for menstruation. In order to avoid any discomfort for the woman wearing the tampon and apparatus, the said tampon is inserted as far as the middle portion of the vagina where there are few sensory nerves. As in the case of tampons used for menstruation, this tampon is made of absorbent material, more particularly cotton-wool. When the tampon is in the woman's vagina, the surface thereof against the wall of the vagina absorbs the vaginal secretions, so that the surface of the tampon lies against the wall of the vagina. This largely eliminates any possibility of the tampon being displaced while the woman is walking or seated, so that the part of the lead passing through the tampon, and the temperature-sensor located at the end thereof, assumes a specific position within the vagina.
Finally, the tampon is provided with a recovery tape for removal from the vagina.
According to another ccnfiguration of the invention~ the part of the lead adap-ted to be inserted into the vagina comprises a thickened section in the form of a rubber ball. Like a tampon, this thickened section is located in the central part of the vagina and thus remains largely in place when the wearer is walking or seated. The said thickened section is removed from the vagina quite simply by withdrawing the lead therefrom.
According to one preferred embodiment of the invention, a housing containing the thermometer and the signalling device is adapted to be attached in the hip area. The signalling device itself may be in the form of an acoustic device or of a hot-]0 plate, the surface of which faces -the bodyO Also conceivable is a combination of both an acoustic and a thermal signal. If information reaches the signalling device, via the temperature-sensor, indicating that a temperature-difference has been detected, leading to the conclusion that ovulation is in progress, this signal is passed to the thermal and/or the acoustical part of the signalling device. A thermal signal is used when a discreet indication of ovulation is required, the heat from the hot-plate being felt acting upon the skin. An acoustic signal is used in circumstances when the heat from -the hot-plate might not be noticed, for example when the wearer is sleeping and an acoustical signal is needed to ensure that she is alerted.
Preferred embodiments will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 is a side elevation of a female body with a detail showing the genital organs;
Fig. 2 is a plan view of the apparatus according to the inven~ion designed as a bracelet; and Fig. 3 is a section through the apparatus along the line A-A in Fig. 2.
The female body as a whole is markad 30. The area in the vicinity of the genital organs shows the vagina 1, the urethra 2, the rectum 3, the uterus ~, the Fal~opian tubes 5 and the ovaries 6.
Part of a flexible lead 8 is inserted through inlet 7 into the woman's vagina 1, the said lead containing a temperature-sensor 9. In order to prevent the said lead from slipping unwantedly out of the vagina, the end of the lead near the temperature-sensor is passed through a tampon 10 and is moulded thereto in such a manner as to prevent displacement of the lead in the direction of the central axis of the said tampon. At the end near the inlet to the vagina, the tampon is equipped with a recovery tape 11 which allows it to be removed from the vagina. At the vagina-inlet end of the tampon, lead 8 is interrupted by a plug-and-socket connection 12. In the interests of hygiene, the tampon, with the part of lead 8 passing therethrough and the temperature-sensor 9, may thus be replaced a~ter use, and these components may therefore be regarded as disposable. It is also possible, however, not to mould the lead to the tampon, but merely to pass it therethrough.
In this case only the tampon need be replaced after use, i.e. the said lead and temperature-sensor are merely passed through a fresh tampon 10~ In this case, the tampon can be removed only by means of the recovery tape, whereas if the lead is moulded to the tampon, the latter may be removed from khe vagina by withdrawing the lead. Finally, it is conceivable to locate plug-and-soc~et connection 12 at a point in lead 8 so that it does not come to rest within the vagina, but is located elsewhere outside the body 30.
The part of lead ~ running externally of ~ody 30 connects temperature-sensor 9 to a signalling device 13. The latter consists of a selector-part 14, a scale 15 associated therewith, an acoustical signalling device 16, a hot-plate 17 shown in dotted lines, a three-position switch 1~, and a battery arranged internally and therefore not visible.
If a woman desires to determine the time of ovulation, then, at a time when her body-temperature is still normal, she inserts 3c the flexible lead 8 into her vagina until the tampon comes to rest in the central section thereof. Since at this point -the vagina has scarcely any sensory nerves, the apparatus can definitely be worn in comfort. A belt 19 is used to secure the signalling device 13 in the vicinity of -the hips, in such a manner that the hot-plate 17 is in contact with the skin oE the body 30. The signalling device is set in operation by means of switch 20.
Determination of the basic value, which is related to normal body-tempera-ture, is carried out by adjusting a corres-ponding circuit in the signalling device 13. The basic value is determined by cutting-in a series of circuits containing variable resistors until one resistor in one circuit is matched exactly with an NTC resistor representing a specific temperature.
The cutting-in process as such is effected by means of a rotatable selector-part 14. In setting the device, it will usually be convenient to adjust the three-position switch 18 in such a manner that, when two resistors match, the acoustic signalling device 16, located in signalling device 13, is activated. It would also be possible, however, to adjust the said three-position switch in such a manner that only the hot-plate 17 is activated, or that both the hot-plate 17 and the acoustic signalling device 16 are activated.
Thus a knowledge of the normal body-temperature is not needed in determining the basic value and for reasons of simplicity, the value zero should be assigned thereto.
The temperature in excess of normal body-temperature at which ovulation takes place is an empirical value. In accordance with this temperature-difference, selector-part 14 is rotated over scale 15 by units representing temperature-differences, in the direction of increasing values. The result of this is an interruption in the signal from signalling device 16. Once ovulation has taken place, acoustic signalling device 16 will be activated again, thus passing the information on to the woman wearing the apparatus. ~Iowever) it is also possible, by selective operation of three-position switch 18, to cause g the signalling device 13 to release purely thermal or combined acoustical-thermal information relating to the presence of ovulation.
As may be seen in Fig. 2, a two-piece bracelet 101 carries a housing 102. Arran~ed in a housing wall 104, which faces the surface of th~ body when the apparatus is being worn, is a temperature-sensor 103. An outer housing wall 105 accommodates, in appropriate recesses, buttons 106, 107 and a digital display 108. The housing 102 also contains a micro-processor 109, a watch~part 110, and a battery 111. The temperature-sensor 103, the buttons 106, 107, the digital display 108, the micro-processor 109, the watch-part 110, and the battery 111 constitute a circuit.
The buttons 106 are used to take-in and release all the values relating to temperature-measurement which are to be determined and stored. The buttons 107 are for the watch-part 110. All the functions of the wa-tch, as well as temperatures, temperature-differences, temperature-measurement intervals, etc.
can be shown on the display 108.
When the apparatus according to the invention is used by a woman, after she has fitted it she can, by actuating the buttons 106, 107, determine her basic temperature, assign to it a reference value, indicate simultaneously the time at which the body-temperature is to be measured and, if necessary, several consecutive times. It is also possible to store such temperature sequences~ so that the woman can subsequently verify when the temperature indicating ovulation was reached.
The band 101, preferably designed as a bracelet, is preferably resilient.
Claims (26)
OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. Apparatus for determining ovulation in women by measuring body temperature differences comprising: a temperature-sensor adapted to be secured to the body, or in an opening in the body;
a thermometer connected to the temperature-sensor; and an indicating device connected to the thermometer, or a signalling device actuated by the temperature-sensor, wherein the temperature differences are determined by the temperature-sensor.
a thermometer connected to the temperature-sensor; and an indicating device connected to the thermometer, or a signalling device actuated by the temperature-sensor, wherein the temperature differences are determined by the temperature-sensor.
2. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which the determination of temperature-differences is effected by means of a temperature-dependent resistor arranged in the temperature-sensor.
Apparatus according to claim 1 which includes both an indicating device connected to the thermometer and a signalling device actuated by the temperature-sensor.
4. Apparatus according to claim 1 which includes an indicating device connected to the thermometer.
5. Apparatus according to claim 1 which includes a signalling device actuated by the temperature-sensor.
6. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which the thermometer comprises a micro-processor.
7. Apparatus according to claim 6 in which the micro-processor and temperature-sensor are adapted so that, the momentary body temperature of the woman, at the body surface supporting the temperature-sensor and, externally, the temperature values characteristic of ovulation, are adapted to be fed into, and stored in, the micro-processor by the temperature-sensor.
8. Apparatus according to claim 6, in which the micro-processor is adapted to have fed into and stored in it the time at which the temperature is measured, or the intervals between temperature-measurements.
9. Apparatus according to claim 6, in which the indicating device is adapted to display the momentary body-temperature of the woman at the surface supporting the temperature-sensor, together with the temperature-values and the times at which the temperature is measured or the intervals between temperature measurements fed into, and stored in, the micro-processor.
10. Apparatus according to claim 1, including a band adapted to be fastened around one of the woman's extremities, a temperature sensor arranged on the side of the band facing the said extremity and adapted to be placed upon the skin, a micro-processor connected to the said temperature-sensor, and an indicating device connected to the said micro processor.
11. Apparatus according to claim 10, in which the band comprises a housing containing the temperature-sensor, the micro-processor, and the indicating device.
12. Apparatus according to claim 1 including a battery as a source of power for the apparatus.
13. Apparatus according to claim 11 in which the temperature-sensor is arranged upon the under-surface of the housing.
14. Apparatus according to claim 11, in which a watch-part is arranged in the housing.
15. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the temperature-sensor is adapted to be fitted at a location upon the surface of the body which is suitable for measuring fluctuations in body-temperature, more particularly the armpit, the groin, or the auditory canal.
16. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which the temperature-sensor is adapted to be fitted at a separate location from and is connectable to the thermometer through a lead.
17. Apparatus according to claim 16, in which the temperature-sensor is fitted to a separate band.
18. Apparatus according to claim 16, in which the temperature-sensor is arranged upon the body-side of a piece of foil or the like adhering to the body.
19. Apparatus according to claim 16, in which the temperature-sensor is adapted to be introduced into the woman's vagina.
20. Apparatus according to claim 16, in which the part of the lead, adapted to be introduced into the vagina, is passed through a tampon.
21. Apparatus according to claim 20, in which the lead, secured to the tampon, is adapted to be moulded to the said tampon, more particularly in the central area thereof.
22. Apparatus according to claim 20, in which the part of the lead adapted to be introduced into the vagina comprises a thickening, for example in the form of a rubber ball fitted to the said lead.
23. Apparatus according to claim 20, in which the lead comprises a plug-and-socket connection, preferably in the vicinity of the tampon or the thickening, on the side facing the entrance to the vagina.
24. Apparatus according to claim 1, including a housing which is adapted to be secured, preferably in the area of the hips, and which contains the thermometer and the signalling device.
25. Apparatus according to claim 24, in which the signalling device is an acoustical device.
26. Apparatus according to claim 24, in which the signalling device is in the form of a hot-plate arranged with its surface facing the body.
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| DE19823211573 DE3211573A1 (en) | 1982-03-29 | 1982-03-29 | Device for the determination of ovulation in women |
| DEP3211573.3 | 1982-03-29 | ||
| DE19823237565 DE3237565A1 (en) | 1982-10-09 | 1982-10-09 | Arrangement for detecting ovulation in women |
| DEP3237565.4 | 1982-10-09 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1199727A true CA1199727A (en) | 1986-01-21 |
Family
ID=25800746
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000424677A Expired CA1199727A (en) | 1982-03-29 | 1983-03-28 | Apparatus for determining ovulation in women |
Country Status (14)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP0090327B1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JPH0415209Y2 (en) |
| AR (1) | AR229771A1 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU1290383A (en) |
| BR (1) | BR8301594A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1199727A (en) |
| DE (1) | DE3375369D1 (en) |
| DK (1) | DK136383A (en) |
| EG (1) | EG15937A (en) |
| ES (1) | ES8401718A1 (en) |
| FI (1) | FI72425C (en) |
| IN (1) | IN159291B (en) |
| NO (1) | NO831131L (en) |
| OA (1) | OA08313A (en) |
Families Citing this family (10)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE3342251A1 (en) * | 1983-11-23 | 1985-05-30 | Werner 5413 Bendorf Weiland | Method of measuring the body temperature of human beings and animals, especially for determining ovulation |
| DE3509503A1 (en) * | 1985-03-16 | 1986-09-25 | Hermann-Josef Dr. 5300 Bonn Frohn | DEVICE FOR RECEIVING REGULATION |
| FR2634017A1 (en) * | 1988-07-07 | 1990-01-12 | Farivar Fereshteh | Medical thermometer for continuous measurement |
| US5050612A (en) * | 1989-09-12 | 1991-09-24 | Matsumura Kenneth N | Device for computer-assisted monitoring of the body |
| EP0667118A1 (en) * | 1994-02-10 | 1995-08-16 | Herbert Mollen | A temperature measurement apparatus for detecting ovulation |
| US5685319A (en) * | 1995-12-18 | 1997-11-11 | Marett; Douglas Michael | Method and apparatus for determining the fertility status of women |
| US6592529B2 (en) * | 2001-07-31 | 2003-07-15 | Pheromone Sciences Corp. | Method and device for predicting the fertile phase of women |
| GB0206260D0 (en) | 2002-03-16 | 2002-05-01 | Univ Bristol | Thermometer |
| FR2851333A1 (en) * | 2003-02-19 | 2004-08-20 | Jerome Corbiere | Apparatus for measuring and recording body temperature of child, has electronic case receiving signal pulses from temperature sensor, and linked to computer that triggers alarm for temperature higher or lower than preset temperatures |
| CN105832459B (en) * | 2016-03-21 | 2018-05-25 | 京东方科技集团股份有限公司 | Physiological effect system, intelligent underpants and Physiological effect method |
Family Cites Families (7)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE1766548A1 (en) * | 1968-06-11 | 1971-06-16 | Trienes Johannes Dr | Procedure to determine the woman's conception and freedom of conception by electronic means and order to carry out the procedure |
| US4151831A (en) * | 1976-11-15 | 1979-05-01 | Safetime Monitors, Inc. | Fertility indicator |
| US4148304A (en) * | 1976-11-29 | 1979-04-10 | Bmd Development Trust | Device for measuring ovulation |
| JPS5578954A (en) * | 1978-12-11 | 1980-06-14 | Suwa Seikosha Kk | Electronic woman thermometer |
| DD147046A1 (en) * | 1979-10-30 | 1981-03-18 | Joachim Bohm | PORTABLE DEVICE FOR CYCLE DISPLAY |
| US4396020A (en) * | 1979-12-21 | 1983-08-02 | National Research Development Corporation | Measurement of basal body temperature |
| JPS56162022A (en) * | 1980-05-19 | 1981-12-12 | Seiko Epson Corp | Thermometer with wristwatch |
-
1983
- 1983-03-22 EP EP83102824A patent/EP0090327B1/en not_active Expired
- 1983-03-22 DE DE8383102824T patent/DE3375369D1/en not_active Expired
- 1983-03-23 ES ES520884A patent/ES8401718A1/en not_active Expired
- 1983-03-23 FI FI830977A patent/FI72425C/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1983-03-25 DK DK136383A patent/DK136383A/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1983-03-28 AU AU12903/83A patent/AU1290383A/en not_active Abandoned
- 1983-03-28 CA CA000424677A patent/CA1199727A/en not_active Expired
- 1983-03-28 BR BR8301594A patent/BR8301594A/en unknown
- 1983-03-28 NO NO831131A patent/NO831131L/en unknown
- 1983-03-29 OA OA57954A patent/OA08313A/en unknown
- 1983-03-29 EG EG200/83A patent/EG15937A/en active
- 1983-03-29 AR AR292574A patent/AR229771A1/en active
- 1983-04-06 IN IN401/CAL/83A patent/IN159291B/en unknown
-
1990
- 1990-11-22 JP JP1990121899U patent/JPH0415209Y2/ja not_active Expired
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| NO831131L (en) | 1983-09-30 |
| AR229771A1 (en) | 1983-11-30 |
| OA08313A (en) | 1988-02-29 |
| BR8301594A (en) | 1983-12-06 |
| EP0090327B1 (en) | 1988-01-20 |
| DK136383A (en) | 1983-09-30 |
| EP0090327A3 (en) | 1984-01-11 |
| DK136383D0 (en) | 1983-03-25 |
| FI72425C (en) | 1987-06-08 |
| AU1290383A (en) | 1983-10-06 |
| JPH0373115U (en) | 1991-07-23 |
| FI830977A0 (en) | 1983-03-23 |
| ES520884A0 (en) | 1984-01-01 |
| FI72425B (en) | 1987-02-27 |
| DE3375369D1 (en) | 1988-02-25 |
| FI830977L (en) | 1983-09-30 |
| IN159291B (en) | 1987-04-25 |
| EP0090327A2 (en) | 1983-10-05 |
| JPH0415209Y2 (en) | 1992-04-06 |
| EG15937A (en) | 1986-09-30 |
| ES8401718A1 (en) | 1984-01-01 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKEX | Expiry |