JP2000014649A - Ear type thermometer - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ear type thermometer being easy to operate and capable of safely measuring the temperature of the eardrum. SOLUTION: This thermometer is of the ear type that measures body temperature by detecting the intensity of infrared radiation from inside of the ear, having a first infrared sensor, a second infrared sensor, a temperature sensor, a control means, and the like. Detection signals from the first and second infrared sensors and the temperature sensor are sampled (step 301) and a temperature value Tj measured within the ear and a temperature value Th measured on the surface of the earhole are obtained (step 302). An extra amount U is calculated from the difference (Tj-Th) and the temperature value Th measured, and the temperature value Tj measured and the extra amount U are substituted into an equation Tk=Tj+U to determine the temperature Tk of the eardrum (step 303). The temperature value Tj measured in corrected to obtain a temperature Tjref within the ear which corresponds to ambient temperature when it is equal to reference temperature (step 304). The result of the measurement is displayed on a display part (step 305).

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an ear thermometer.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art An infrared ear thermometer (ear thermometer) for measuring the temperature in the ear is known.

[0003] In this ear thermometer, the temperature of the ear is determined by detecting the intensity of infrared rays emitted from the ear with an infrared sensor.

[0004] For this reason, the measurement time is extremely short as compared with a conventionally used general thermometer (for example,
(About 1 to 2 seconds), which is extremely useful, for example, when measuring the body temperature of a restless infant or child.

[0005]

However, the temperature in the ear depends on the environmental temperature outside the ear (outside air temperature). Therefore, even if the body temperature is constant, if the environmental temperature fluctuates, the temperature in the ear will be reduced. Temperature fluctuates according to the environmental temperature. Therefore, in the conventional ear thermometer, there is a problem that the temperature measurement value fluctuates according to the environmental temperature, that is, the season, the measurement date and time, and the measurement location.

To solve such a problem, the temperature of the eardrum may be measured independently of the environmental temperature. To measure the temperature of the eardrum, a probe of a thermometer is inserted deeply into the vicinity of the eardrum or Since it is necessary to measure the sensor by contacting the eardrum, it is difficult and dangerous to operate.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to provide an ear thermometer which is easy to operate and can safely determine the temperature of the eardrum. .

[0008]

This and other objects are achieved by the present invention which is defined below as (1) to (5).

(1) First infrared detecting means for detecting the intensity of infrared light emitted from the inside of the ear, and second infrared detecting means for detecting the intensity of infrared light emitted from the ear canal entrance surface, An ear thermometer characterized in that the temperature of the eardrum is obtained based on the infrared detection signal from the infrared detection means and the infrared detection signal from the second infrared detection means.

(2) There is provided first infrared detecting means for detecting the intensity of infrared light emitted from the inside of the ear deeper than the tip of the infrared light introducing section, and the ear is detected based on the infrared detection signal from the first infrared detecting means. An ear temperature detecting means for detecting an internal temperature, and a second infrared detecting means for detecting the intensity of infrared light emitted from the entrance surface of the ear canal, wherein the ear canal is detected based on an infrared detection signal from the second infrared detecting means. Ear hole entrance surface temperature detection means for detecting the temperature of the entrance surface, based on a temperature detection signal from the in-ear temperature detection means, and a temperature detection signal from the ear hole entrance surface temperature detection means,
An ear thermometer configured to determine the temperature of the eardrum.

(3) Further, there is provided an environmental temperature detecting means for detecting an environmental temperature outside the ear, wherein an environmental temperature detecting signal from the environmental temperature detecting means and an infrared detecting signal from the first infrared detecting means are provided. (1) or (2), wherein the ear temperature at the detected environmental temperature is obtained based on the detected internal temperature, and the ear temperature corresponding to when the environmental temperature is the reference temperature is obtained. Ear thermometer.

(4) The display device according to (1), further comprising a display unit, wherein the display unit displays the temperature of the eardrum.
An ear thermometer according to any one of (1) to (3).

(5) There is provided a display unit, wherein the display unit displays the eardrum temperature, the ear temperature at the detected environmental temperature, and the ear temperature corresponding to the environmental temperature at the reference temperature. Ear thermometer according to the above (3), which can be displayed sequentially or simultaneously.

[0014]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, an ear thermometer according to the present invention will be described in detail based on a preferred embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings.

FIGS. 1 and 2 are a front view and a side view, respectively, showing an embodiment of an ear thermometer (hereinafter simply referred to as "thermometer") according to the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a probe of the thermometer shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA ′ in FIG. 1 showing a state in which a probe cover is mounted on the probe, FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the structure of a first infrared sensor of the thermometer shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 1
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the thermometer shown in FIG. 1 and 2 are referred to as "upper", the lower side is referred to as "lower", the upper side in FIG. 3 is referred to as "distal end", and the lower side is referred to as "base end".

As shown in these figures, a thermometer 1 is an ear thermometer for measuring a body temperature by detecting the intensity of infrared rays emitted from an ear. A thermometer body 2 having a casing 21 and a thermometer body 2 A thermometer main body 2 and a power switch 3 and a display unit 5 installed on the front of the thermometer main body 2.

At the upper front side of the thermometer main body 2, a tubular probe (infrared ray introducing section) 6 is installed. A rib 60 is formed at an intermediate portion of the probe 6 in the vertical direction in FIG. 3 (the horizontal direction in FIG. 2). The rib 60 has a rounded shape in consideration of safety when inserted into the ear cavity.

The probe 6 has the same structure as that of the
The outer diameter has a shape that gradually decreases toward the tip,
An outer peripheral portion (edge) 63 of the distal end of the probe 6 has a rounded shape in consideration of safety when inserted into the ear cavity.

At the center of the probe 6, a light guide (waveguide) 8 that guides infrared rays (heat rays) introduced from the tip thereof to a first infrared sensor 101 described later is provided upright. The light guide 8 is preferably made of a metal such as copper having good heat conductivity, and its inner surface is plated with gold.

A probe cover 11 is detachably attached to such a probe 6. This probe cover 1
1 prevents dust, dust, and the like from entering the light guide 8.

The probe cover 11 has a shape whose base end is open and whose end is closed. That is, the probe cover 11 has a cylindrical body 12, a film 14 formed at the distal end of the body 12 and capable of transmitting infrared light, and a probe 14 formed at the base end of the body 12 and capable of transmitting infrared light. And a base 13.

When the probe cover 11 is mounted on the probe 6, the base 13 contacts the distal end surface 22 of the casing 21.

When the probe cover 11 is mounted on the probe 6, the rib 60 of the probe 6 engages with an intermediate portion of the body 12 of the probe cover 11 in the vertical direction in FIG. 3 (horizontal direction in FIG. 2). A curved portion (groove) 120 is formed.

Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the probe cover 11 from being displaced from the probe 6 or being easily detached during measurement of body temperature or the like.

The outer diameter and the inner diameter of the body portion 12 gradually decrease toward the tip except for the curved portion 120.

The trunk 12, base 13 and film 14 are
Preferably, it is integrally formed of a resin material. Examples of the resin material include polyolefins such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, and polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate and polybutylene terephthalate.

The distal end surface 22 of the casing 21 forms a substantially flat surface. When the probe 6 is inserted into the ear cavity, the distal end surface 22 contacts the vicinity of the entrance of the ear cavity via the probe cover 11 and regulates the insertion depth of the probe 6 into the ear cavity to a certain depth. For this reason, the measurement can always be performed under appropriate conditions, and a measurement error due to a change in the insertion depth into the ear cavity can be prevented. In addition, the probe 6 can enter the ear cavity too deeply and damage the inner part of the ear. Such inconvenience does not occur. Thus, the thermometer 1 detects infrared rays emitted from a portion deeper than a certain depth of the ear cavity (ear canal), that is, a portion deeper than the tip of the probe 6.

A hollow portion 23 communicating with the inside (hollow portion) of the light guide 8 is formed at the base end side of the light guide 8 of the casing 21.

In the hollow portion 23, a first infrared sensor (first infrared detecting means) 101 and a temperature sensor (environmental temperature detecting means) 107 are provided.

A hole 24 having a bottom is formed at the tip of the casing 21, that is, near the probe 6. The position of the hole 24 is set so that when the probe 6 is inserted into the ear cavity, the hole 24 is located on the ear hole surface (ear hole entrance).

In the hole 24, a second infrared sensor (second infrared detecting means) 115 is provided.

Note that the first infrared sensor 101,
Second infrared sensor 115 and temperature sensor 107
Thereby, a temperature measuring means (temperature measuring section) 10 is configured. As described above, since the distal end face 22 of the casing 21 abuts near the entrance of the ear cavity, the temperature measurement unit 10 is located outside the ear. Hereinafter, the first infrared sensor and the second infrared sensor are each simply referred to as “infrared sensor”.

A circuit board (not shown) is provided in the casing 21. As shown in FIG. 5, the circuit board has a control means 31 composed of a microcomputer.
And an A / D converter 32 and the like. In the casing 21, a power supply unit 40 for storing a battery is provided.
Is installed, and power is supplied from the power supply unit 40 to each unit of the temperature detection unit 10 and the circuit board.

The control means 31 has a built-in arithmetic unit 311, a memory (RAM, ROM, EEPROM) 312, and a timer (including an auto power off timer) not shown.

The main function of the correction means for performing the correction described later is achieved by the control means 31.

The main function of the in-ear temperature detecting means for detecting the in-ear temperature is achieved by the control means 31 and the infrared sensor 101.

The main function of the ear-hole entrance surface temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of the ear-hole entrance surface is achieved by the control means 31 and the infrared sensor 115.

The control means 31 has an automatic power-off timer for suppressing unnecessary power consumption.

The automatic power-off timer automatically turns off the power after a predetermined time (for example, 60 seconds) from the start of the timer when the power switch 3 is left in an on state. Even if the power switch 3 is turned off within a predetermined time after starting the auto power-off timer, until the predetermined time elapses,
The timer continues its counting operation (time measurement).

As shown in FIG.
Reference numerals 1 and 115 denote a heat sink 111 and an insulating film 11 for insulating heat and electricity on the heat sink 111, respectively.
Thermopile (thermopile) 102 installed via 2
And The thermopile 102 has a plurality of thermocouples connected in series.

Then, at the center on the insulating film 112,
Each hot junction 103 of the thermopile 102 is installed,
Outside the hot junction 103 on the insulating film 112, each cold junction 10
4 are installed.

Above the hot junction 103, a heat collecting portion (infrared absorbing film) 106 that covers each hot junction 103 is provided.

On the insulating film 112, a hot junction terminal (positive output terminal) 113 connected to a predetermined hot junction 103 is provided.
And a cold junction terminal (negative output terminal) 114 connected to a predetermined cold junction 104 are provided, respectively.

As shown in FIG.
, A temperature sensor 107 is installed. This temperature sensor 107 detects the temperature of the cold junction 104 of the infrared sensor 101 and the temperature of the cold junction 104 of the infrared sensor 115 because the temperature sensor 107 is located outside the ear at the time of temperature measurement. ) Is detected. As the temperature sensor 107, for example, a contact-type temperature sensor such as a thermistor can be used.

In such a temperature detecting means 10, the hot junction 1 of the infrared sensor 101, which is heated by the infrared irradiation from the inside of the ear (the eardrum, the ear canal, etc.) by the infrared sensor 101.
A signal (infrared detection signal) corresponding to the temperature difference between the cold junction 103 and the cold junction 104 is detected, and the infrared sensor 115 is heated by the infrared irradiation from the ear hole surface (ear hole entrance surface). Signal corresponding to the temperature difference between 103 and cold junction 104 (infrared detection signal)
And a signal (environmental temperature signal) corresponding to the temperature of the atmosphere near the cold junction 104 (environmental temperature outside the ear) of the infrared sensors 101 and 115 which are not irradiated with the infrared rays. The temperature in the ear or the surface of the ear canal can be measured by the function.

Since the tip of the probe 6 is located at a predetermined depth in the ear canal (in the ear), the infrared rays incident (irradiated) on the probe 6 from a portion deeper than that position in the ear canal. Is incident (irradiated) on the infrared sensor 101.

Hereinafter, the ambient temperature outside the ear (outside air temperature) is simply referred to as “environmental temperature”. FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing the ear and the inside thereof, and FIG. 7 is a graph showing the relationship between each part (measurement part) in the ear and the temperature measured therein (ear temperature, eardrum temperature). FIG. 8 is a graph showing the relationship between each part (measurement part) in the ear when the environmental temperature (outside air temperature) changes and the temperature (ear temperature, eardrum temperature) measured there.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 6, a predetermined depth of the ambient temperature (outside air temperature) and T _a, an ear canal surface (an ear canal entrance surface) 201 of the temperature (ear hole surface temperature) and T _h, ear canal 202 (the ear) Now, assuming that the tip of the probe 6 is located and the measured temperature (intra-ear temperature) is T _j , and the temperature of the eardrum 203 deep in the ear canal 202 (tympanic temperature) is T _k , these temperatures _Th , T _j
And T _k , as shown in FIG. 7, the eardrum temperature T _k
But the highest, the lowest ear hole surface temperature T _h. That is,
The temperature in the ear gradually decreases as the tip position of the probe 6 moves from the eardrum 203 toward the ear canal surface 201.

As shown in FIG. 8, the eardrum temperature T_k 
Is the environmental temperature T if the body temperature is constant _a Regardless of
It is.

[0050] In contrast, ear temperature T _j and the ear canal surface temperature T _h, respectively, even body temperature is constant, changes according to the environmental temperature T _a.

[0051] For example, as shown in FIG. 8, ear temperature T _j
And the ear canal surface temperature T _h, respectively, the ambient temperature T _a is increased from the reference temperature (standard temperature) T _ref, increases accordingly, the ambient temperature T _a is reduced from a reference temperature T _ref, drops accordingly I do.

[0052] The thermometer 1, the environmental temperature T actual temperature (ear temperature) of the ear which varies depending on _a T _j, i.e., the regulated predetermined depth in the ear canal 202, the probe 6 Temperature value (in-ear temperature) T by positioning the tip of
and _j, the ear canal surface 20 which changes according to the environmental temperature T _a
1 of the actual temperature (ear hole surface temperature) T _h, that is, obtains a temperature measuring values of the ear canal surface 201 (an ear canal surface temperature) T _h, in these temperature measurement values T _j and T _h (this embodiment, the T _h ,
Based on the difference) of T _j and T _h, estimates the temperature (tympanic temperature) T _k of the eardrum 203 that is not affected by the environmental temperature T _a (determined) is configured as.

Hereinafter, the temperature in the ear measured by positioning the tip of the probe 6 at a predetermined depth in the ear canal 202 will be simply referred to as “in-ear temperature”. That is, the in-ear temperature here is measured based on the intensity of infrared rays emitted from the inside of the ear deeper than a predetermined position along the ear canal 202.

[0054] In addition, the thermometer 1 is said corrected T _j (ear temperature in the detected environmental temperature) the actual ear temperature, the ear environmental temperature T _a corresponds to the time of the reference temperature T _ref It is configured to determine the temperature T _jref . Less than,
This will be specifically described.

In the thermometer 1, the infrared sensor 101
Thus, the intensity of infrared rays emitted from the inside of the ear deeper than a predetermined position along the ear canal 202 is detected.
By 15, detects the intensity of the infrared ray emitted from the ear canal surface 201, the temperature sensor 107 detects the environmental temperature T _a, based on the detection signals from the infrared sensors 101 and the temperature sensor 107, the actual in ear temperature measured (ear temperature) T _j, based on the detection signal from the infrared sensor 115 and temperature sensor 107, the actual temperature of the ear canal surface 201 (an ear canal surface temperature)
To measure the T _h. In other words, to obtain thermometry value in the ear (ear temperature) thermometry value of T _j and the ear canal surfaces 201 (ear hole surface temperature) T _h from the detection signal.

The temperature measurement value in the ear (the temperature in the ear) T _j
A temperature measuring values of the ear canal surface 201 temperature difference (ear hole surface temperature) T _h, that is, obtains a difference (T _j -T _h).

As shown in FIG. 8, this difference (T _j -T
_h ) represents the temperature gradient in the ear (rate of change of temperature with respect to depth in the ear). If the body temperature is constant, this difference (T
_j -T _h), the larger the environment temperature T _a is small.

Next, the the difference (T _j -T _h), on the basis of the temperature measurement values of the ear canal surface 201 (an ear canal surface temperature) T _h,
Determining a temperature (tympanic temperature) T _k eardrum 203, the temperature difference between the temperature measurement value (ear temperature) T _j in the ear, i.e., the eardrum temperature T _k from thermometry value in the ear (ear temperature) T _j Amount U (T _k −T _j ) is calculated.

[0059] Then, with the additional amount U, and a temperature check value (ear temperature) T _j in the ear to determine the temperature (tympanic temperature) T _k of the eardrum 203. Temperature of eardrum 203 (eardrum temperature) T
_k is represented by the following equation (1).

T _k = T _j + U (1)

In the thermometer 1, the difference (T _j -T _h )
When the additional amount U from the temperature measuring values T _h of the ear canal surface 201
Is previously stored in the memory 312.

The calibration curve is stored in the memory 312 as, for example, an equation (arithmetic equation) or a table.
Incidentally, the expression leads to the additional amount U is represented by the temperature measuring values T _h of the ear canal surface 201, the difference (T _j -T _h) function to the a parameter _{F (T h, T j -T} h) .

The calibration curve (formula or table) can be experimentally set as follows, for example.

[0064] and the temperature measuring values T _h of the ear canal surface 201, along with determining a temperature check value T _j of the ear to determine the temperature T _k of the eardrum 203 by using a thermometer for measuring temperature of the eardrum 203. Then, from the temperature check value T _h of the ear canal surface 201 obtained, and the temperature measuring values T _j of the ear, and the temperature T _k of the eardrum 203, the difference (T _j
−T _h ) and the added amount U (T _k −T _j ) are calculated.

This measurement is performed while changing the conditions such as the environmental temperature _{Ta and the} like, and is performed on a large number of subjects to obtain data,
That is, thermometry value of the ear canal surface 201 T _h and the difference (T _j -
T _h ) and the additional amount U (T _k
-T _j ) to collect a set of data.

[0066] Then, from the collected the data, the temperature check value T _h of the ear canal surface 201, the difference (T _j -T _h) and as a parameter, a function representing the additional amount _{U (T k -T j) F} ( T _h , T _j −T _h ).

[0067] Figure 9, the additional amount U (T _k -T _j) function represents the _{F (T h, T j -T} h) is a graph showing a. In FIG. 9, the difference (T _j −T _h ) is on the x-axis, and the added amount U (T _k −T _j ) is on the y-axis.

When measuring the body temperature, the function F (T
_h, the T _j -T _h), and the thermometry value T _h of the ear canal surface 201,
Difference (T _j -T _h) and is substituted, additional amount U (T _k -
T _j ) is required.

[0069] function _{F (T h, T j -T} h) , based on the temperature detection value T _h of the ear canal surface 201, function F ₁ (T _j -T
_{h), F 2 (T j} -T h), F 3 (T j -T h) ···
May be selected (set). For example, when the _{T h1 ≦ T h <T h2} , the function F ₁
(T _j -T _h) is, when the _{T h2 ≦ T h <T h3} , the function F
₂ (T _j -T _h) is, when the _{T h3 ≦ T h <T h4} , the function F ₃ (T _j -T _h) are respectively selected.

The above _Th1 , _Th2 , _Th3 , _Th4 ...
_Are constants, respectively, and _Th1 < _Th2 < _Th3 < _Th4 ...
・ It is.

Next, a difference (T
_j− T _h ) is substituted, and the added amount U (T _k −T _j ) is obtained.

As shown in FIG. 9, the added amount U (T _k −T
_j) is larger as the difference (T _j -T _h) is large.

[0073] Also, additional amount U (T _k -T _j) is so large that the temperature measuring values T _h of the ear canal surface 201 is small.

When a calibration curve for obtaining the added amount U is stored in the memory 312 as an expression (arithmetic expression), the function F ( _Th , _Tj - _Th ) is stored in the memory 312.

When the calibration curve is stored in the memory 312 as a table, the function F (T _h , T _h
j - _Th ) is stored in the memory 31.
2 is stored.

The expression (arithmetic expression) or table for obtaining the additional amount U is stored in the memory 312, for example, when the thermometer 1 is shipped from the factory or before that.

In the present invention, the method for setting the calibration curve (formula or table) is not limited to the above method.
Needless to say.

The thermometer 1 has a temperature sensor 1
07 based on the environmental temperature T _a detected by, thermometric value in the ear (ear temperature) T _j, the temperature (ear temperature within ear corresponding to when the environmental temperature T _a is the reference temperature T _ref ) T
A correction amount (correction value) ΔM for correcting to _jref is obtained.
The reference temperature T _ref is preferably set to, for example, about 20 or 25 ° C.

[0079] Then, based on the correction amount .DELTA.M, corrects the temperature measuring values T _j within the ear, the environmental temperature T _a is the reference temperature T
The temperature T _jref in the ear corresponding to _ref is _obtained .

[0080] Temperature T _JREF in ear environmental temperature T _a corresponds to the time of the reference temperature T _ref is expressed by the following equation (2).

T _jref = T _j + ΔM (2)

When T _a > T _ref , ΔM <0,
That is, T _j > T _jref . Further, <when the _{T ref, ΔM> T a 0} , that is, the _{T j} <T jref. When T _a = T _ref , ΔM = 0, that is, T _j
= T _jref .

[0083] Then, in the thermometer 1, a calibration curve for determining the correction amount ΔM corresponding environmental temperature T _a detected by the temperature sensor 107 in the environment temperature T _a is in advance, stored in memory 312 .

The calibration curve is stored in the memory 312 as, for example, an equation (arithmetic equation) or a table.
Incidentally, the formula for guiding the correction amount ΔM is represented by the environmental temperature T _a of the primary or more function f (T _a).

The calibration curve (formula or table) can be experimentally set as follows, for example.

[0086] The environmental temperature T _a, for example, by changing the range of 5 to 35 ° C., respectively, obtains the thermometric value T _j of the ear.

[0087] In this case, always, the environmental temperature T _a reference temperature T _ref (e.g., 20 ° C.) in the, temperature measuring values of the ear at the time (hereinafter, simply referred to as "thermometer value when the reference temperature")
_Find T _{jr ef} '. Then, for each of the measured temperature values T _j in the ear, a change amount ΔM ′ (= T _j −T _jref ′) of the _measured temperature value T _j from the _measured temperature value T _jref ′ at the reference temperature is determined. It should be noted that the variation ΔM ′ of the temperature detection value T _j is T _j > T
'When, _positive, T _j <T jref' jref time, becomes negative.
The above measurements are performed on a number of subjects to collect data.

Next, as shown in FIG.
_a is the x-axis, and the measurement points (T _a , ΔM ′) are defined on an xy coordinate system in which the change ΔM ′ of the measured temperature value T _j from the _measured temperature value T _jref ′ at the reference temperature is the y-axis. Plotting is performed, and a function (averaging line) f ′ (T _a ) passing substantially the center of the distribution and passing through the point (T _ref , 0) is obtained.

Since this function f ′ (T _a ) substantially represents the central value of the variation ΔM ′ of each measured value T _j , the correction Δ
M is set so as to cancel the center value of ΔM ′, that is, by reversing the sign (±) of the function f ′ (T _a ). Specifically, the correction amount ΔM = −f ′
(T _a ) = f (T _a ) is set.

[0090] By setting the calibration curve for determining the correction amount .DELTA.M, for example, when the environmental temperature _{T a = T a1 (> T} ref), f '(T a) = + m 1 ( where, m _1> 0), that is, the correction amount ΔM = −m ₁ is obtained. Therefore, the temperature T of the ear to the environmental temperature T _a corresponds to the time of the reference temperature T _ref
jref is, from the above equation (2), T _jref = T _j + ΔM = T _j
−m ₁ .

When the environmental temperature T _a = T _a2 (<T _ref ), f ′ (T _a ) = − m ₂ (where m ₂ > 0), that is, the correction amount ΔM = + m ₂ is obtained. . Therefore, the temperature T of the ear to the environmental temperature T _a corresponds to the time of the reference temperature T _ref
jref is, from the above equation (2), T _jref = T _j + ΔM = T _j
+ M ₂ .

When a calibration curve for obtaining the correction amount ΔM is stored in the memory 312 as an equation (arithmetic equation), the function f (T _a ) is stored in the memory 312.

[0093] Further, when the calibration curve is stored in memory 312 as a table, the table corresponding (corresponding) to the function f (T _a), i.e., a T _a, corresponding to the environmental temperature T _a The combination with the correction amount ΔM is stored in the memory 312.

The storage of the formula (arithmetic formula) or table for obtaining the correction amount ΔM in the memory 312 is performed, for example, at the time of shipment of the thermometer 1 from the factory or before that.

In the present invention, the method for setting the calibration curve (formula or table) is not limited to the above method.
Needless to say.

Next, a method of using the thermometer 1 and its operation will be described. FIG. 11 is a view schematically showing a state where the probe 6 of the thermometer 1 shown in FIG. 1 is inserted into the ear cavity.
5 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the control means 31 when measuring body temperature.

First, the probe 6 is covered with the probe cover 11. Then, the power switch 3 is turned on, and after a lapse of a predetermined time, the thermometer main body 2 is gripped, and the probe 6 covered with the probe cover 11 is placed in the ear cavity, that is, the ear canal 202, as shown in FIG. insert. In this case, the infrared sensor 115 is located near the ear hole surface (ear hole entrance).

Next, the measurement switch 4 is pressed for a predetermined time. Thereby, the program shown in FIG. 12 is executed,
A measurement of body temperature is made.

First, a detection signal from the infrared sensor 101, a detection signal from the infrared sensor 115, and a detection signal from the temperature sensor 107 are taken in (step 3).
01).

In this case, infrared rays (heat rays) radiated from the inside of the ear pass through the film 14 of the probe cover 11 and are introduced into the light guide 8, and repeatedly reflected on the inner surface thereof to reach the infrared sensor 101. The light is irradiated to the heat collecting unit 106.

The infrared rays (heat rays) emitted from the surface of the ear canal pass through the base 13 of the probe cover 11, reach the infrared sensor 115, and irradiate the heat collecting section 106 thereof.

As shown in FIG.
From the above, an output (analog signal) corresponding to the temperature difference between the hot junction 103 and the cold junction 104 is obtained.
The signal is converted into a digital signal (hereinafter referred to as “AD value from the infrared sensor”) by the D converter 32 and
1 is input.

An output (analog signal) corresponding to the temperature difference between the hot junction 103 and the cold junction 104 is obtained from the infrared sensor 115, and this output is output to the A / D converter 32.
Digital signal (hereinafter, “A from infrared sensor”
D value) and input to the control means 31.

Further, an output (analog signal) corresponding to the temperature of the atmosphere (environmental temperature) near the cold junction 104 is obtained from the temperature sensor 107, and this output is output by the A / D converter 32 to a digital signal , "AD value from the temperature sensor") and input to the control means 31.

Next, the arithmetic unit 311 of the control means 31
Based on the input AD value from the infrared sensor 101 and the AD value from the temperature sensor 107, predetermined arithmetic processing is performed to obtain the actual temperature T _j in the ear, that is, the temperature measurement value T _j in the ear. with, based on the AD value from the AD values and the temperature sensor 107 from the infrared sensor 115 is input, performs a predetermined calculation process, the actual temperature T _h of the ear canal surface 201, i.e., the ear canal surface 201
Determination of the temperature detection value T _h (step 302).

Next, the arithmetic unit 311 of the control means 31
Based on the temperature detection value T _h of thermometry value T _j and the ear canal surface 201 of the ear to determine the temperature (tympanic temperature) T _k eardrum 203 (step 303).

In this step 303, the temperature measurement value T in the ear
the difference between the temperature measurement value T _h of _j and the ear canal surface 201 (T _j -T
seeking _h), wherein the formula (arithmetic expression) or table determine the additional amount U described above are stored in the memory 312 of the control means 31, the temperature measuring values T _h of the ear canal surface 201 difference (T _j -T _h) And the additional amount U is determined based on

Then, the obtained additional amount U and the temperature measurement value T _j in the ear are expressed by the above-mentioned equation (1), that is, “T _k
= T _j + U ”to determine the temperature (tympanic membrane temperature) T _k of the eardrum 203.

Next, the arithmetic unit 311 of the control means 31
By correcting the temperature measuring values T _j of the ear to determine the temperature T _JREF in ear environmental temperature T _a corresponds to the time of the reference temperature T _ref (step 304).

In step 304, the AD value from the temperature sensor 101 or the A value from the temperature sensor 101 is obtained from an expression (arithmetic expression) or a table for obtaining the correction amount ΔM stored in the memory 312 of the control means 31.
Based on the environmental temperature T _a obtained from the D value, the correction amount ΔM
Ask for.

[0111] Then, a correction amount ΔM obtained was a thermometric value T _j in the ear aforementioned (2), i.e., "T
_JREF = by substituting T _j + .DELTA.M ", determine the temperature T _JREF in ear environmental temperature T _a corresponds to the time of the reference temperature T _{re f.}

Next, the obtained body temperature (measurement result) is displayed on the display unit 5 (step 305).

In this step 305, the temperature measurement value T in the ear
_j and the temperature T _JREF in ear corresponding to when the environmental temperature T _a is the reference temperature T _{re f,} the temperature of the eardrum 203 (tympanic temperature) T
_k at least the temperature of the eardrum 203 (the eardrum temperature) T
_k is displayed.

For example, as shown in FIG.
, The thermometry value in the ear (ear temperature) T _j and the temperature (ear temperature) T _{jr ef} in ear corresponding to when the environmental temperature T _a is the reference temperature T _ref, the temperature of the eardrum 203 (eardrum Temperature) T _k may be displayed, or as shown in FIG.
Temperature of the eardrum 203 may display only (tympanic temperature) T _k.

The temperature measurement value T _j in the ear and the environmental temperature T _a
Is the reference temperature T _ref and the temperature T in the ear
and _JREF, if Show the temperature (tympanic temperature) T _k of the eardrum 203, may be displayed them simultaneously, or may be sequentially displayed.

[0116] Also, the display unit 5, the temperature measuring values in the ear and (ear temperature) T _j, the temperature (ear temperature) in the ear corresponding to when the environmental temperature T _a is the reference temperature T _ref and T _JREF a first display mode for displaying all the temperature (tympanic temperature) T _k eardrum 203, and a second display mode for displaying only the temperature (tympanic temperature) T _k of the eardrum 203, the operator (user ) May be set (selected) by an operation unit (not shown).

It is to be noted that a buzzer 3 is provided to notify the end of the measurement.
3 may be sounded. In this case, the operator can know from the notification of the buzzer 33 that the measurement of the body temperature has been completed. By the notification of the buzzer 33, the operator removes the probe 6 from the ear cavity.

As described above, according to the thermometer 1, since the temperature of the eardrum 203 (the eardrum temperature) _Tk is obtained,
Not affected by changes in the environment temperature T _a. That is,
Regardless of the season, measurement date and time, measurement location, etc., accurate body temperature can always be obtained.

[0119] Then, in the thermometer 1, when measuring the body temperature, the temperature measuring values T of the temperature measurement value T _j and the ear canal surface 201 of the ear
_Since the body temperature is obtained by estimating the temperature of the eardrum 203 based on _h , it is not necessary to insert the probe 6 deep into the vicinity of the eardrum 203. For this reason, while being able to measure body temperature safely, the operation at the time of a measurement can be performed easily and quickly.

Further, in this thermometer 1, since the position for detecting the intensity of the infrared ray is set at a predetermined depth of the ear canal surface 201 and the ear canal 202, as shown in FIG. The difference ( _Tj - _Th ) becomes relatively large, which can further improve the measurement accuracy.

[0121] Further, in the thermometer 1, the determining the temperature T _JREF in ear environmental temperature T _a corresponds to the time of the reference temperature T _ref, the temperature T of the eardrum 203 that is not affected by variations in environmental temperature T _{a In-} ear temperature corresponding to _k (in-ear temperature)
Can be obtained.

[0122] That is, environmental temperature T _a varies, the temperature T _j of the ear accordingly be varied, the variation is canceled.

As a result, an accurate body temperature can always be obtained regardless of the season, measurement date and time, measurement location, and the like.

Although the ear thermometer of the present invention has been described based on the illustrated embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this, and the configuration of each part may be any configuration having the same function. Can be replaced with something.

For example, in the above embodiment, the temperature of the eardrum 203 (the eardrum temperature) _Tk is determined by detecting the intensity of the infrared light emitted from the inside of the ear and the intensity of the infrared light emitted from the ear hole surface (entrance of the ear hole) 201. However, the present invention is not limited to the inside of the ear and the surface of the ear hole 201. For example, two positions with different depths of the ear canal are set, and the intensity of infrared rays emitted from the inside of the ear deeper than that position is detected. And the eardrum 203
It may be configured in temperature to seek (tympanic temperature) T _k.

The position (depth) at which infrared rays are detected is:
The number is not limited to two, but may be three or more.

That is, three or more positions with different depths of the ear canal are set, and three or more infrared sensors for detecting the intensity of infrared rays emitted from the ear deeper than the positions are provided. Based on the detection signal and the detection signal from the temperature sensor, the temperature in the ear measured at three or more positions having different depths of the ear canal (in the ear) is obtained, and the eardrum 203 is determined based on these temperatures. It may be configured in temperature to seek (tympanic temperature) T _k.

[0128] In the above embodiment, the temperature check value (ear hole surface temperature) T _h of the ear canal surface 201, since the difference (T _j -T _h), has been configured to determine the additional amount U, the In the present invention, the temperature measurement value of the ear hole surface 201 (ear hole surface temperature) T
and _h, the temperature measuring values in the ear and a (ear temperature) T _j, may be configured to determine the additional amount U.

In this case, the temperature measurement value T of the ear canal surface 201 is obtained.
and _h, a calibration curve for determining the additional amount U from the temperature measuring values T _j of the ear is preset. For example, the temperature measuring values T _h of the ear canal surface 201, and a thermometric value T _j of the ear as a parameter,
A function F ′ ( _Th , _Tj ) representing the added amount U or a table corresponding to (corresponding to) the function F ′ ( _Th , _Tj ) is stored in the memory 312 in advance.

In the present invention, the temperature measurement value T _j in the ear and the temperature measurement value T
temperature of the eardrum 203 from _h may be configured to seek (tympanic temperature) T _k.

In the present invention, two parts (for example, the position (depth) of the ear canal 202 and the surface 201 of the ear canal) are used.
The eardrum 2 is obtained directly from the detection signals from the two infrared sensors and the sensor that detects the environmental temperature without finding the temperature of the
It may be configured to obtain the temperature (tympanic membrane temperature) T _k of No. 03. Further, even if not directly, after processing the detection signals from the two infrared sensors and the sensor for detecting the environmental temperature into processed signals, the temperature of the eardrum 203 (the eardrum temperature) Tk is _obtained from the processed signals. It may be configured.

In the present invention, the infrared sensors (the first infrared sensor and the second infrared sensor) for detecting the intensity of infrared rays emitted from the ear are constituted by a thermopile type sensor (a thermopile). It is not limited to an infrared sensor, but may be, for example, a pyroelectric sensor or a bolometer.

In the present invention, the sensor for detecting the environmental temperature is not limited to a contact temperature sensor (such as a thermistor). In addition, for example, an infrared sensor (thermocouple sensor, pyroelectric sensor, bolometer, etc.) Etc.).

In the above embodiment, the sensor for detecting the ambient temperature also serves as the sensor for detecting the temperature near the cold junction of the thermopile. However, in the present invention, in addition to the sensor for detecting the environmental temperature, Separately, a sensor for detecting the temperature near the cold junction of the thermopile may be provided.

In the above embodiment, the reference temperature T _ref
Is set to 20 or 25 ° C., but in the present invention, the reference temperature T _ref may be set to a temperature other than 20 and 25 ° C.

Further, in the present invention, the temperature measurement value in the ear (the temperature in the ear) _Tj and the environmental temperature T _a can be obtained without obtaining the correction amount ΔM.
From may be configured to determine the temperature (ear temperature) T _JREF directly in the ear that corresponds to when the environmental temperature T _a is the reference temperature T _ref.

[0137] In the present invention, the temperature measuring values of the ear without requiring (ear temperature) T _j and the ambient temperature T _a, the environmental temperature T _a from the detection signal from the sensor for detecting the infrared sensor and the ambient temperature The temperature in the ear (in-ear temperature) T _jref corresponding to the reference temperature T _ref may be directly _obtained .

[0138] In the present invention, as in the case of the ear as described above, the ear canal surface 2 by correcting the temperature measuring values T _h of the ear canal surface 201, the ambient temperature T _a corresponds to the time of the reference temperature T _ref
It may be configured to obtain the temperature of 01 (the ear hole surface temperature) Th _href .

The display patterns in the present invention include, for example, display patterns P1 to P16 shown in Table 1 below.

[0140]

[Table 1]

When a plurality of temperatures (body temperatures) are displayed, they may be displayed at the same time, or may be displayed sequentially in a predetermined order.

The display patterns P1 to P1 shown in Table 1 above are used.
An operator (user) selects an arbitrary display pattern from P16
May be set (selected).

[0143]

As described above, according to the ear thermometer of the present invention, since the temperature of the eardrum (eardrum temperature) is obtained, it is not affected by the fluctuation of the environmental temperature (outside air temperature). That is, regardless of the season, measurement date and time, measurement location, etc.,
Accurate body temperature is obtained.

In the ear thermometer of the present invention, the intensity of infrared rays emitted from the inside of the ear and the surface of the entrance of the ear canal is detected, and the temperature of the eardrum is estimated based on these detection signals and the like, and the body temperature is obtained. Does not need to be inserted deep into the eardrum. For this reason, while being able to measure body temperature safely, the operation at the time of a measurement can be performed easily and quickly.

Further, when not only the temperature of the eardrum (tympanic temperature) but also the temperature in the ear corresponding to the environmental temperature (outside air temperature) at the reference temperature (standard temperature) is widely used.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view showing an embodiment of an ear thermometer (thermometer) of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a side view showing an embodiment of the thermometer according to the present invention.

3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA 'in FIG. 1 showing a state in which a probe cover is attached to the probe of the thermometer shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a structure of a first infrared sensor of the thermometer shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the thermometer shown in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing an ear and the inside thereof.

FIG. 7 is a graph showing the relationship between each part (measurement part) in the ear and the temperature measured there.

FIG. 8 is a graph showing the relationship between each part (measurement part) in the ear when the environmental temperature (outside air temperature) changes and the temperature measured there.

9 is a graph showing the function _{F (T h, T j -T} h) representing the additional amount U (T _k -T _j) in the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a graph showing a calibration curve for obtaining a correction amount ΔM in the present invention.

11 is a diagram schematically showing a state in which the probe of the thermometer shown in FIG. 1 is inserted into an ear cavity.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the control means at the time of measuring body temperature in the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display example of body temperature on the display unit according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing another display example of the body temperature of the display unit according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Ear thermometer (thermometer) 2 Thermometer main body 21 Casing 22 Tip surface 23 Hollow part 24 Hole 3 Power switch 4 Measurement switch 5 Display part 6 Probe 60 Rib 63 Tip outer peripheral part 8 Light guide 10 Temperature measuring means 101 First infrared sensor Reference Signs List 102 Thermopile (thermocouple) 103 Hot junction 104 Cold junction 106 Heat collector 107 Temperature sensor 111 Heat sink 112 Insulating film 113 Hot junction terminal 114 Cold junction terminal 115 Second infrared sensor 11 Probe cover 12 Body 120 Curved part 13 Base 14 membrane 31 control means 311 arithmetic unit 312 memory 32 A / D converter 33 buzzer 40 power supply unit 201 ear hole surface 202 ear canal 203 eardrum 301-305 steps

Claims (5)

[Claims] A first infrared detecting means for detecting the intensity of the infrared light emitted from the inside of the ear; and a second infrared detecting means for detecting the intensity of the infrared light emitted from the entrance surface of the ear canal. An ear thermometer characterized in that it is configured to determine the temperature of the eardrum based on the infrared detection signal from the infrared detection means and the infrared detection signal from the second infrared detection means. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: first infrared detecting means for detecting the intensity of infrared light emitted from the inside of the ear deeper than the tip of the infrared light introducing part, and detecting the intensity of the infrared light based on the infrared detection signal from the first infrared detecting means. In-ear temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature, and second infrared detecting means for detecting the intensity of infrared rays emitted from the surface of the ear canal entrance, the ear canal entrance based on the infrared detection signal from the second infrared detecting means Ear hole entrance surface temperature detection means for detecting surface temperature, based on a temperature detection signal from the in-ear temperature detection means and a temperature detection signal from the ear hole entrance surface temperature detection means, An ear thermometer, characterized in that it is configured to determine. 3. An ambient temperature detecting means for detecting an environmental temperature outside the ear, wherein an environmental temperature detecting signal from the environmental temperature detecting means and an infrared detecting signal from the first infrared detecting means are provided. The ear thermometer according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ear temperature at the detected environmental temperature is determined based on the detected internal temperature, and the ear temperature corresponding to the detected environmental temperature is a reference temperature. 4. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a display unit configured to display the temperature of the eardrum on the display unit.
The ear thermometer according to any one of the above. 5. A display unit, wherein the display unit displays a temperature of the eardrum, an ear temperature at the detected environmental temperature, and an ear temperature corresponding to a time when the environmental temperature is a reference temperature. 4. The ear thermometer according to claim 3, wherein the ear thermometer is configured to be displayed sequentially or simultaneously.