JP2001137195A - Clinical thermometer - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a clinical thermometer that fits to a small lughole of infant and measures body temperature quickly and exactly, and the cover of which is changed easily to keep always clean. SOLUTION: A clinical thermometer is provided with a probe section 12 covering a wave guide 13 that guides infrared ray into the thermometer body and around the wave guide 13 located at a base end part around covering members together with these covering members 16, 17, a positioning member 8 that is larger than covering member in outer size, wherein the periphery face of the internal covering member 16 adhered to the periphery of wave guide 13 being taper shaped with larger diameter at base end side, an outer covering member being a cap shaped with closed top end, and the cap cylindrical part of the outer covering member 17 being wedged between the periphery of the probe sub-cover and internal periphery of the opening of the positioning member 16.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a thermometer for accurately measuring the temperature in a human ear canal in a short time.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Thermometers for measuring human body temperature are measured in the mouth, armpits, or rectum. by the way,
In the human body, since the brain circulates a large amount of blood, an accurate body temperature can be obtained by measuring the temperature of the brain. And since the mouth is close to the brain, the temperature in the mouth is almost equal to the body temperature, so it is best to measure in the mouth.

For this reason, it has been widely practiced to measure the body temperature by inserting a mercury thermometer or an electronic thermometer into the oral cavity.

[0004] However, a mercury thermometer measures approximately 1
There is a disadvantage that it takes a long time of 0 minutes. In this regard, the measurement time of the electronic thermometer is relatively short, about 60 in the prediction formula, but both are directly inserted into the oral cavity at the time of measurement, so that there is a problem of infection with a virus or the like, which is not preferable in terms of hygiene. In addition, the body temperature measurement is not accurate in the prediction formula, and the measurement time is also long, about 6 minutes in the actual measurement formula.

[0005] Therefore, there has been proposed a thermometer capable of measuring by inserting a probe into an ear canal. That is, the inside of the ear canal is close to the brain, and the temperature is almost equal to the body temperature, which is suitable for measuring the body temperature.

As this type of thermometer, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-83631 is known. This is because the probe to be inserted into the ear canal protrudes from the thermometer body that can be grasped by hand, and the tip of the probe has
A structure in which a disk-shaped light-transmitting window member is provided to close the tip opening of the light guide tube exposed at the probe tip. If the tip of the probe including the window member becomes dirty, wipe off the dirt with alcohol or the like. You can do it.

[0007]

However, when trying to measure the body temperature of an infant using such an ear-hole type thermometer, the measuring section (probe section) of the conventional thermometer is too thick, and is placed in the infant's ear canal. Cannot be properly inserted.

[0008] For this reason, it conforms to the shape of the ear canal of infants,
It has been desired to develop a thermometer that can accurately measure the body temperature and keep the baby clean in consideration of the usage environment of the infant.

Further, in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-83631,
Because the window member is configured to be difficult to remove, if dirt sticks to the window member and cannot be wiped off, it becomes unsanitary and the light transmittance of the window member decreases, There is a problem that accurate body temperature measurement cannot be performed. The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and can quickly and accurately measure a body temperature in a small ear hole of an infant and can easily replace a probe cover. The purpose is to provide a thermometer that can always be kept clean.

[0010]

In order to achieve the above object, in a thermometer according to the present invention, a main body accommodating a temperature measuring means, and a probe portion attached to an opening provided in the main body are provided. A probe that guides infrared rays into the thermometer main body, and a cover member that covers the periphery of the waveguide and is formed thin so as to be inserted into the ear canal of an infant. A cylindrical positioning having a larger outer shape than the cover member so as to be located at the base end around the cover member and detachably attached to the main body side and abutting against the periphery of the ear canal to create a closed space inside. A cylindrical probe sub-cover having an opening at a distal end, being in close contact with a periphery of the waveguide, and having a base end disposed in the main body; And a cap-type probe cover having a light-transmitting function that is detachably interposed between the cover sub-cover and the positioning member, and has a light-transmitting function for closing a distal end opening of the probe sub-cover. The probe cover is formed in a tapered shape with a larger diameter toward the side, and is configured such that the cap cylindrical portion of the probe cover is sandwiched between the outer peripheral surface of the probe sub-cover and the inner peripheral surface of the opening of the positioning member. (Operation) A temperature measuring means such as an infrared sensor for detecting temperature by detecting infrared rays transmitted from the probe unit is provided in the main body. The probe section includes a long waveguide that guides infrared rays, and the periphery of the waveguide is covered with a cover member. The cover member is formed to be thin so that it can be inserted into the ear canal of a baby. In addition, a positioning member is detachably disposed at a base end of the cover member. When the distal end side of the waveguide covered by the cover member is inserted into the ear hole of the baby, the positioning member abuts on the periphery of the ear hole based on the outer shape larger than the cover member, and the insertion depth of the waveguide end is increased. By positioning the sheath direction and making close contact with the periphery of the ear canal, an effect of forming a closed space in the ear canal is exerted. That is, since the positioning member is formed particularly at the base end of the cover member, it does not hinder the thin cover member covering the waveguide from entering the ear canal. In addition, by attaching and detaching the positioning member, the cover member that touches the body is completely exposed, and the positioning member can be removed from the main body to be cleaned, and can be held clean. Further, since an opening is formed at the tip of the probe sub-cover, it is possible to appropriately guide infrared rays to the internal waveguide. The probe cover closes the opening at the tip of the probe sub-cover and, based on the light-transmitting function, exerts an effect of preventing the intrusion of dust and the like into the inside while allowing the transmission of infrared rays. Also, by removing the positioning member, remove the part that touches the body including this probe cover,
Can be replaced or washed. To replace the dirty probe cover with a new probe cover, remove the positioning member from the main body, remove the dirty probe cover from the tip of the probe sub-cover, and place the new probe cover on the tip of the probe sub-cover. It is only necessary to mount the positioning member on the main body. That is,
Since the outer peripheral surface of the probe sub-cover is formed in a tapered shape having a larger diameter toward the base end side, when the positioning member is pushed in the axial direction with respect to the probe sub-cover, the inner peripheral surface of the opening of the positioning member becomes the probe sub-cover. (Tapered)
When approaching the outer peripheral surface, the cap cylindrical portion of the probe cover is sandwiched between the (tapered) outer peripheral surface of the probe sub-cover and the inner peripheral surface of the opening of the positioning member, and is held and retained. According to a second aspect, in the thermometer according to the first aspect, the probe cover is made of a stretchable resin film. (Function) When the positioning member is attached and detached, the positioning member is moved in the axial direction with respect to the probe sub-cover, but the (cylindrical portion) of the probe cover interposed between the positioning member and the probe sub-cover is thin and has a low frictional resistance. And does not hinder smooth movement of the positioning member with respect to the probe sub-cover. In claim 3, claim 1 or 2
5. The thermometer according to claim 1, wherein a flange-shaped locking portion is provided at a base end opening of the probe cover, and an inner circumferential surface of the opening of the positioning member is axially engaged with the locking portion on the probe cover side. A matching step is provided. (Action)
When mounting the positioning member from the state where the probe cover is put on the tip of the probe sub cover, the step on the inner peripheral surface side of the opening of the positioning member engages with the locking portion on the probe cover side, and the probe sub In conjunction with the pushing operation toward the main body side along the cover, the cylindrical portion of the probe cover is pulled in the axial direction, and the cylindrical portion is sandwiched between the outer peripheral surface of the probe sub-cover and the inner peripheral surface of the opening of the positioning member. As a result, the area covering the probe sub-cover opening in the probe cover is held in a tensioned state, and wrinkles occur in the area of the probe cover facing the opening of the waveguide, resulting in a decrease in infrared transmittance. Absent. According to a fourth aspect, in the thermometer according to the third aspect, the probe cover and the main body are mounted by screwing. (Operation) When the probe cover is screwed to the main body, as the probe cover is rotated with respect to the main body and screwing (screw fastening) proceeds, the pressure contact force and the axial tensile force generated in the probe cover cylindrical portion gradually increase. Since it increases, there is no problem that the probe cover is damaged due to a sudden stress acting.
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the thermometer according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, a transparent sealing means is disposed between the waveguide and the probe sub-cover, and covers a distal end opening of the waveguide. It was configured to have: (Operation) Even when the positioning member is removed and the probe cover is removed from the probe sub-cover, dust does not enter the waveguide by the sealing means.
According to a sixth aspect, in the thermometer according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, the proximal end portion of the probe sub-cover includes a contact portion that abuts on a peripheral edge of the main body opening portion,
By mounting the positioning member on the main body, the abutting portion is brought into contact with sealing means exposed at the opening of the main body, and the probe portion and the opening of the main body are sealed. And (Operation) Since the seal is provided between the probe sub-cover and the main body, the sealing function is completed, and sweat, earwax, dust and the like do not enter the main body. A thermometer according to a seventh aspect of the present invention includes a main body accommodating the temperature measuring means, and a probe portion attached to an opening provided in the main body and formed thin so as to be inserted into an ear canal of an infant. The probe section is a cylindrical probe section main body provided with a waveguide for guiding infrared rays into the thermometer main body, and is located at a base end around the probe section main body, and is detachably attached to the main body side. A cylindrical positioning member having an outer shape larger than that of the probe main body so as to abut on the periphery of the ear canal to create a sealed space therein;
A cap-type probe cover which is detachably interposed between the probe unit main body and the positioning member and has a light-transmitting function for closing a distal end opening of the probe unit main body, wherein an outer peripheral surface of the probe unit main body is The probe is formed in a tapered shape having a larger diameter toward the end, so that the cap cylindrical portion of the probe cover is sandwiched between the outer peripheral surface of the probe unit main body and the inner peripheral surface of the opening of the positioning member. . (Operation) The body is provided with a temperature measuring means such as an infrared sensor for detecting temperature by detecting infrared rays transmitted from the probe unit main body. The probe unit main body includes a long waveguide for guiding infrared rays, and the probe main body and the positioning member are formed thin so that they can be inserted into the ear canal of a baby. Also,
A positioning member is detachably disposed at a base end of the probe unit main body. When the distal end side of the probe unit main body is inserted into the ear canal of an infant, the positioning member abuts on the periphery of the ear hole based on the outer shape larger than the probe unit main body, and the insertion depth of the probe unit main body (waveguide) distal end. By positioning the sheath direction and making close contact with the periphery of the ear canal, an effect of forming a closed space in the ear canal is exerted. That is, since the positioning member is formed especially at the base end of the probe main body, it does not hinder the probe main body (waveguide) from entering the ear canal. In addition, by attaching and detaching the positioning member, the probe portion main body that touches the body is completely exposed, and the positioning member can be removed from the main body and washed, so that it can be held clean. Further, since an opening is formed at the tip of the probe section main body, infrared rays can be appropriately guided to the internal waveguide. And
The probe cover has an effect of blocking the entrance of dust and the like while allowing infrared rays to pass therethrough based on the light transmitting function by closing the opening at the tip of the probe unit main body. In addition, by removing the positioning member, a portion that touches the body including the probe cover can be removed, replaced, or washed. To replace the dirty probe cover with a new probe cover, remove the positioning member from the main body, remove the dirty probe cover from the tip of the probe body, and place a new probe cover on the tip of the probe body. It is only necessary to mount the positioning member on the main body. That is, since the outer peripheral surface of the probe unit main body is formed in a tapered shape having a larger diameter toward the base end side, when the positioning member is pushed in the axial direction with respect to the probe unit main body, the inner peripheral surface of the opening of the positioning member becomes the probe. The cap cylindrical portion of the probe cover approaches the (tapered) outer peripheral surface of the portion main body, and is held between the (tapered) outer peripheral surface of the probe portion main body and the inner peripheral surface of the opening of the positioning member. Claim 7 also relates to Claims 2 and 3.
By adopting the limited configuration as shown in the above, the same operation as the operation of the second and third aspects described above occurs.

[0011]

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiment described below is a preferred specific example of the present invention, and thus various technically preferable limitations are added. However, the scope of the present invention particularly limits the present invention in the following description. The embodiment is not limited to these embodiments unless otherwise stated.

FIG. 1 shows a thermometer according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein (a) is a schematic front view and (b) is a schematic rear view. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of the thermometer of FIG.
3 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the thermometer, FIG. 4 is a schematic sectional view showing a configuration example of a probe unit of the thermometer of FIG. 1, FIG. 5 is a schematic front view of a positioning cap of the thermometer of FIG. 1, and FIG. FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating a state where a top region of a probe cover is held in a tensioned state by a cap.

In these figures, a thermometer 10 includes a thermometer main body 11 and a probe 1 protruding from the main body 11.
2 is provided.

The main body 11 is, as shown in FIG.
It has a characteristic shape as a whole, and has a predetermined internal space by the upper case 11a and the lower case 11b which are divided in half.

That is, as shown in FIG. 1, the main body 11 has a substantially bilaterally symmetric outer shape, a probe portion 12 projecting upward at the center, and a side 11 which is a lower surface of the figure.
Side surfaces 11d and 11e are formed with the same curved surface so as to correspond to each isosceles of an isosceles triangle with c as the base.

As will be described later, the bottom surface 11c serves as a contact surface that comes into contact with the palm when the user holds the main body 11. For this reason, preferably, a probe unit 1 described later is used.
2 and extends in a direction orthogonal to the direction of FIG.

As will be described later, the side portions 11d and 11e are suitable as a first support surface and a second support surface to which the inside of the index finger of the user can be applied when supporting the main body 11. Set to length.

Here, if the side surfaces 11d and 11e are formed as curved surfaces that are outwardly convex, it is suitable for applying the inside thereof along the movement of the finger. And the side part 11d
And 11e are not necessarily curved surfaces, and may be formed by polygonal surfaces or the like that are convex outward. In addition, each side portion 11
The d and 11e need not be formed with the same curved surface as shown in the figure, and only one of the outwardly convex shapes may be formed.

As shown in FIGS. 1B and 2,
The rear surface has a bulging portion 11f. This bulge 1
1f is a shape bulging in the thickness direction of the main body 11, and is formed so as to have substantially the same curved surface inside the side portions 11d and 11e. Thereby, the bulging portion 11
As described later, f has a shape and a size suitable for contacting the inside of the middle finger of the user when supporting the main body 11.

As shown in FIG. 1, in the front of the main body 11, a window 22a which is opened is provided on the lower right side thereof slightly to the right.
The display on the liquid crystal panel or the like is exposed through the interface, and constitutes the display means 34.

An operation switch 35 is provided adjacent to the display means 34 in a lower area on the front of the main body 11.

In the main body 11, an infrared sensor 14 as a temperature measuring means and a circuit board 25 to which the infrared sensor 14 is connected are housed. And this body 1
The liquid crystal panel 2 as a display means is provided above the circuit board 25 in FIG.
3 and a filter 22 as a cover for covering the liquid crystal panel 23 are arranged. This filter 22 is provided in the upper case 1
By being exposed from the window 22a provided in 1a,
The display on the liquid crystal panel 23 can be read from outside.

The upper case 11a includes a circuit board 2
A hole 35a for exposing the operation switch 35 connected to 5 is provided.

In FIG. 3, electrodes 36 and 37 connected to the contacts provided on the circuit board 25, a holder 26 for these electrodes, and a buzzer (not shown) are provided below the circuit board 25. The buzzer case 27 is housed.

Further, a circular button battery 31 serving as a power supply for driving is accommodated below the electrode holder 26.
The battery 31 is detachably attached to the lid 3 via an O-ring 32.
3 so as to be exchangeable.

As described above, the button battery 31 having a small thickness
Is stacked on the circuit board 25, so that the shape of the main body 11 does not have to be long in one direction as in a conventional thermometer, but instead has a flat shape that is almost an isosceles triangle as shown in FIG. Shape. This allows
The main body 11 can be made to have a size and a shape such that the main body 11 can be accommodated in the user's hand, and can have a structure convenient for use as described later.

Here, the bulging portion 11f shown in FIGS. 1B and 2 of the lower case 11b is formed so as to cover the outer shape of the battery 31 so as to cover it. Thereby, the main body 11 can reduce the overall thickness by making only the portion where the battery 31 is housed into the bulging portion 11f and reduce the outer shape, and form the middle finger clasp when holding the main body 11. can do.

The main body 11 accommodates such an internal structure, and for example, a lower case 11b and an upper case 11 shown in FIG.
Sealing is achieved by bonding a packing 28 to the groove 11g formed along the seam of FIG. This packing 28 is used for a main body 11 described later.
With the exception of the opening, the periphery of the side edge of the main body 11 is sealed over the entire circumference.

Next, the configuration of the probe section 12 will be described.

The probe section 12 is shown in detail in FIGS. 4 and 5, and will be described with reference to FIG. 3 and these figures.

As shown in FIG. 4, the probe 12 is fixed to an opening 41 at the upper end thereof along the center of the main body 11.

In the figure, a probe section 12 has a thin waveguide 13 extending long through the center thereof, and a probe sub-cover 16 as a cover member disposed so as to cover the entire circumference of the waveguide 13. , Which constitutes a part of the cover member, is disposed outside the probe sub-cover, and covers the tip thereof, and a base end of the probe sub-cover 16, which is disposed outside the probe cover 17 and is a cover member. And a positioning cap 18 as a positioning member arranged near the portion.

The waveguide 13 is formed of, for example, a material capable of appropriately guiding infrared rays, and is formed of, for example, a straight tube made of brass, aluminum, or the like, and has an opening 13a at the tip. In addition, it has a function of introducing infrared rays based on heat in a measurement target portion such as an eardrum in an ear canal into the inside through the distal end opening 13a and leading it to the infrared sensor 14 on the main body 11 side.

In this embodiment, in particular, the waveguide 13
Is formed such that its outer diameter D1 is, for example, about 4.6 mm.

The probe sub-cover 16 which is in close contact with the periphery of the waveguide 13 is made of, for example, a soft material such as an elastomer, and has an outer diameter D2 of about 3.5 mm to 6.5 mm. For example, it is set to be about 6 mm.

Here, the outer diameter D of the probe sub-cover 16
If the length is less than 3.5 mm, the infrared light guide is insufficient, causing a measurement error, and the tip is sharpened, which is dangerous when used. When the outer diameter D2 of the probe sub-cover 16 was larger than 6.5 mm, it was found from the results of various measurements of the ear canal of an infant that it could not be inserted.

That is, the distal end side of the probe sub-cover 16 is formed of a flexible material so that the distal end of the metal waveguide 13 does not damage the inner wall of the ear hole when the probe sub cover 16 is inserted into the ear hole of an infant. It is formed by shaving a hard material so as to have a sufficiently thin shape so that it can be inserted into the ear canal, and its outer peripheral surface 16c has a slightly smaller outer diameter toward the lower side in FIGS. Is formed in a tapered shape.

Further, two flange portions 16a and 16b are formed on the outer periphery of the lower end of the probe sub-cover 16.

The portion 28a where the opening 41 of the main body 11 is exposed at the end of the packing 28, which is a sealing means on the main body 11, is inserted between the two flange portions 16a and 16b. When the probe sub-cover 16 is formed of a hard material such as a rigid resin, the body opening 41 may be sealed by applying silicon grease or an O-ring between the flange portions 16a and 16b.

The waveguide 13 and the probe sub-cover 16 are provided, for example, with a very thin (10 μm-thick) stretchable polyester between the waveguide 13 and the probe sub-cover 16 at their distal ends. A sealing member 15 made of a resin film is fixed.

That is, as shown in FIG. 3, the sealing member 15 is disposed so as to wrap the distal end of the waveguide 13, and the sealing member 1 is provided.
By pressing the waveguide 13 covered with 5 into the probe sub-cover 16, the probe sub-cover 16 is tightly integrated with the inner peripheral surface of the waveguide 13. When the waveguide 13 is press-fitted into the probe sub-cover 16, the region of the sealing member 15 extending along the outer peripheral surface of the waveguide 13 is squeezed on the inner peripheral surface of the probe sub-cover 16 to form an axis. The opening 13a of the waveguide 13 in the sealing member 15
Is held in tension. As a result, the distal end opening 13a of the waveguide 13 is sealed by the tension region in the sealing member 15 in a state where infrared rays can be transmitted.

Further, so as to cover the tip of the waveguide 13,
A probe cover 17 made of a material that transmits light is provided.

As shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 5, the probe cover 17 is very thin (with a thickness of
0μm) Polyester resin cap type (bottomed cylinder)
Are formed on, the opening end of the cap tubular portion 17 ₂ extending from the cap top region 17 ₁ into a cylindrical shape, and has a small flange-shaped engaging portion 17a of a thickness of 0.2mm Width . That is, a polyester resin film (thickness 10
μm) was formed into a closed-end cylindrical shape, and a flange-shaped locking portion 17a was joined and integrated with the opening side of the closed-end cylindrical body to form a cap type. Accordingly, and has a form in which the resin film is Dabutsui a material from the cap top region 17 ₁ toward the cap tubular portion 17 _2. In addition, this probe cover 1
The inner diameter D ₃ of the locking portion 17a of the 7 probes sub cover 1
6 is larger than the outer shape D ₂ of the front end portion of the can be deposited smoothly on the tip of the probe sub-cover 16. Incidentally, the inner diameter D ₃ of the locking portion 17a is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the positioning cap 18 further position P ₁ (diagram corresponding to the step portion 18a when mounting the positioning cap 18 (screw fastening completion with respect to the main body 11) 6 (See FIG. 2).

The positioning cap 18 disposed outside the probe cover 17 is a frustoconical cylinder as a whole. The positioning cap 18 is formed of a soft material, for example, an elastomer or the like, and has a large outer diameter so as to be in contact with the periphery of the ear canal. At the lower end of the probe cover 17, a male screw 43
Is provided, is inserted into the opening 41 of the main body 11,
The female screw portion 43a on the inner periphery of the opening 41 is screwed.

In this state, the positioning cap 1
8 is formed to have a short overall length (height in FIG. 4), and the distal end of the probe sub-cover 16 extends from the distal end to a sufficient length L.
It is to be exposed in the state of. The portion corresponding to the length L is an external auditory canal insertion portion 51 to be inserted into the ear canal of the user as described later.

Here, the length L is set to, for example, about 2 mm to 10 mm. If the length L of the ear canal insertion portion 51 is shorter than the above lower limit, it does not function as a guide for determining a direction for guiding infrared rays from the eardrum. On the other hand, if the length is longer than the above upper limit, the probe contacts the bent portion of the ear canal, and the angle to which the tip of the probe faces should be changed, so that the probe does not correctly face the eardrum.

Further, a downward step 18a is provided inside (inner circumference) of the positioning cap 18 so as to be engaged with the above-mentioned flange-shaped engaging portion 17a of the probe cover 17. .

The outer periphery of the positioning cap 18 is
As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, the lower end portion 42 is formed in a truncated conical shape such that the outer diameter of the lower end portion is the largest, and has a tapered shape that gradually opens downward in cross section. In addition, a plurality of concave portions 44 that are to be hooked on the finger are formed on the side surface along the circumferential direction.

Next, a region of the probe cover 17 which faces the distal end opening 13a of the waveguide 13 (cap top region 1)
A configuration in which 7 ₁ ) is always kept in tension without generating wrinkles will be described with reference to FIG.

First, a probe cover 17 is placed over the tip of the probe sub-cover 16, and a positioning cap 18 is further placed thereon.
The male screw 43 on the side is screwed into the female screw 43a on the main body 11 side. When the positioning cap 18 is mounted on the main body 11, a step 18a on the inner peripheral surface side of the opening of the positioning cap 18 is provided.
Engages with the locking portion 17a on the probe cover 17 side, and as the screwing of the positioning cap 18 (male screw portion 43) and the main body 11 (female screw portion 43a) proceeds, the positioning cap rotates and descends in the axial direction ( Advance. Since the outer peripheral surface 16 c of the probe sub-cover 16 has a taper shape that is thicker downward, the inner peripheral surface 18 c (step 18 a) of the opening of the positioning cap 18 is tapered as the positioning cap 18 is lowered. It approaches the surface 16c. Therefore, the open end of the probe cover cylindrical portion 17 ₂ is pulled gradually in the axial direction (FIG. 6 the arrow A direction), FIG. 6 the arrow B opening end of the cylindrical portion 17 ₂ is the positioning cap 18 As shown in FIG. 5 (squeezed between the tapered outer peripheral surface 16c of the probe sub cover and the inner peripheral surface 18c of the opening of the positioning cap 18).
When the lower end of the positioning cap 18 abuts on the flange 16 a of the probe sub-cover 16, when the screw fastening is completed (in a state where the male screw 43 of the positioning cap 18 is screwed to the female screw 43 a of the main body 11), the probe cap top region 17 ₁ covering the distal opening of the probe sub-cover 16 in the cover 17, the tension toward the radially outward as shown in FIG. 6 the arrow C is held taut acting. For this reason, the distal end opening 13a of the waveguide 13
In the infrared transmitting portion (top region 17 ₁ ) of the probe cover 17 corresponding to the above, the tension is maintained without wrinkles, and a constant infrared transmittance is always guaranteed.

In the present embodiment, if the probe cover 17 becomes very dirty, the positioning cap 18 can be removed and the dirt can be wiped off with alcohol or the like, but the probe cover itself can be easily replaced. In particular, if the probe cover 17 is put on the probe sub-cover 16 and the positioning cap 18 is attached to the main body 11, the probe cover 17 is naturally held in tension, so that anyone can easily replace the probe cover 17. Become.

The present embodiment is configured as described above, and exhibits the following operation.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory view showing a state in which the thermometer 10 of this embodiment is held and held by hand.

This figure shows a state in which the thermometer 10 is held by the right hand H, which is a normal dominant hand. With the front of the thermometer 10 (the surface in FIG. 1A) facing forward, the vicinity of the center of the base 11 c of the thermometer 10 is applied to the vicinity of the joint of the base of the index finger F 1 as shown in the figure. Thereby, the side surface 11 of the thermometer 10
Naturally, the entire inside of the index finger F1 closely adheres to the side surface 11e so as to follow the curve e. In addition, the middle finger F2 located in the depth direction of the index finger F1 on the paper surface is the bulging portion 11f described above.
Functions in the same manner as the side surface 11e and acts as a fingerhold.

On the other hand, since the user's thumb F3 faces the other finger, as shown in FIG.
In contact with the portion near the probe 12 on the front surface of. Thereby, the thermometer 10 is firmly held by the index finger F1, the middle finger F2, and the index finger F3, and the display unit 34 is exposed from the space between the index finger F1 and the thumb F3.
The display is easily recognized by the user.

Further, by simply shifting the position of the thumb F3 while holding the thermometer 10, the operation switch 35 can be operated, and the operability such as activation is excellent. Also, by being arranged on the left side of the front part 34 in FIG. 1A, it is located away from the tip of the thumb F3. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the operation switch 35 from being operated by mistake during the measurement.

In this state, the probe section 12
Is provided at the center position of the left and right target of the thermometer 10, and projects in the direction opposite to the bottom surface 11c.
The thermometer 10 is located along the virtual center line CE of the user's hand H in a state where the thermometer 10 is gripped, and is oriented in the direction of the arrow. The main body 11 is formed in a compact form, and as shown in the drawing, when the main body 11 is held, the probe section 12 is close to the position of the hand.

As a result, compared to a case where a probe part is provided at the tip of a relatively long form as in a conventional thermometer, a small ear canal of a person to be measured for measuring body temperature can be used.
It becomes extremely easy to use the probe unit 12 in accurately guiding the probe unit 12 to the correct direction and position. Also, regardless of whether or not you have the dominant hand, it is easy to hold with either hand.

FIG. 8 shows the relationship between the actual use state and the external auditory meatus 61 of the measurement subject C. FIG.
Shows a state in which an operator M such as a mother measures the body temperature of himself / herself or the measurement subject C. In particular, in FIG. 9, (a), (b), and (c) show a case where the mother M measures the body temperature of the infant C as the measurement target,
(A) is a measurement in which the infant C is held on the lap and turned to the front, (b) is a measurement in which the head of the infant C is put on the lap and the back is turned, and (c) is the measurement. Shows the state of measurement in which the back is turned while holding the infant C on the knee. And FIG.
(D) shows how the mother M measures her own body temperature.

In FIG. 8, the thermometer 10 is inserted into the ear canal 61 as shown in any of the cases shown in FIG.

In this case, as described with reference to FIG. 7, when the thermometer 10 is held with the hand H, the entire thermometer 1 can be almost completely contained in the hand, and the probe unit 12 is directed in the direction of the arrow in FIG. Will be. That is, the probe unit 12
As it turns inward near the center of the user's hand, FIG.
Can be properly aligned and inserted into the small ear hole 62 shown in FIG.

In particular, as shown in FIG. 9, it is possible to insert the baby C into the ear hole 62 of the baby C in any posture in any posture, and as shown in FIG. 9D. In addition, even when the operator himself / herself uses it for his / her own M, since the probe unit 12 is located near the center of his / her hand, the positioning is easy without visually confirming the ear canal.

When the probe portion 12 is inserted into the ear hole 62 as shown in FIG. 8, the tapered surface of the outer periphery of the positioning cap 18 is brought into contact with the peripheral edge of the ear hole 61 which becomes gradually narrower as it becomes deeper. Can be. Thereby, the tip of the probe section 12 of the thermometer 10 is
And is appropriately positioned in the depth direction of the external auditory canal 61.

That is, the probe section 12 of the thermometer 10
When positioned by contacting the periphery of the ear canal 62 by the function of the positioning cap 18, the external auditory canal insertion portion 51 of the probe section 12 is appropriately guided in the depth direction by providing a predetermined length L, and It is positioned toward the eardrum K in the back. Therefore, unlike the conventional thermometer, the probe 12 is not fixed in the direction of the ear canal and does not face the eardrum K correctly. The infrared rays R corresponding to the temperature of the eardrum K can be guided to the waveguide 13 in the probe unit 12.

Accordingly, the operator M can display the display means 34 of the thermometer 10 in the states shown in FIGS. 9 (a) to 9 (c).
, The operation switch 35 can be easily operated with the thumb F3, and the measurement result can be confirmed.

Further, in such a use, since the positioning cap 18 is formed of a soft material, even if the positioning cap 18 is directly pressed against the delicate ear hole 61 of the baby C or the like, the skin or the like is not damaged. When the positioning cap 18 is made of a flexible material as described above by being brought into contact with the peripheral edge of the ear hole 61, the positioning cap 18 is deformed when pressed near the ear hole, Moreover, the thickness (outer diameter) does not completely enter the ear hole 61. For this reason, since the positioning cap 18 closely adheres to the periphery of the outer ear introduction port of the ear canal and completely closes and creates a closed space, the inside of the closed space responds quickly to the body temperature without being affected by the outside air temperature. The equilibrium temperature.

Since the external diameter of the ear canal insertion portion 51 inserted into the external ear canal 62, which is a closed space, is set to be small as described above, it is easy to insert the external ear canal into the inner wall of the external ear canal. Can be correctly directed to the eardrum K. Therefore, the temperature based on the infrared rays emitted from the eardrum K can be stably detected without being affected by the temperature of the thermometer 10 or the like.

Further, after such use, the thermometer 10 may be wet even if the baby puts it in the mouth and sucks it, or if necessary, even if the vicinity of the probe part 12 is washed, Since the opening 41 of 11 is completely sealed, the waterproof inside the main body 11 is maintained, and there is no possibility that the internal mechanism is damaged.

In particular, by tightening the positioning cap 18, the main body opening 41, which is the place where water is most likely to be flooded,
By pressing the exposed portion of the sealing means 28a with the lower end of the probe sub-cover, the sealing effect can be completed. Further, the positioning cap 18 can be removed as described above. As a result, the probe cover 17 covering the tip of the probe section 12
Can be removed and replaced easily. Since most of the probe sub-cover 16 is also exposed, if the probe sub-cover 16 is easily wiped off with a cotton swab or the like, moisture can be removed and bacteria can be removed.

This allows the user to keep the thermometer 10 clean at all times. In particular, by washing the thermometer 10 after each use, the thermometer 10 can be kept in the ear canal 61 even when the thermometer 10 is used for an object having low resistance such as the baby C. It is preferable because it can be kept clean.

In such care, even if the positioning cap 18 is removed, the opening of the distal end of the waveguide 13 is closed by the sealing means 15.
There is no possibility that garbage or the like enters the inside and impairs its function.

FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 show another embodiment of the thermometer according to the present invention. A thermometer 70 in FIG. 10 is a second embodiment of the present invention, and a thermometer 80 in FIG. 11 is a third embodiment of the present invention. In these thermometers, the same reference numerals as those in the above-described embodiment are given. Since the parts are the same in configuration, the duplicate description will be omitted, and the description will focus on the differences.

In the thermometer 70 and the thermometer 80, the first
When compared with the thermometer 10 of the embodiment,
1 in that the shape of the main body 81 is thin.

In the above-described embodiment, the positioning cap 18 and the main body 11 are structured so as to be screwed together. However, the pawl provided on the positioning cap 18 and the pawl engaging part provided on the main body 11 side are provided. A bayonet engaging structure or the like for engaging may be used.

In the above-described embodiment, the probe 1
2 is a waveguide 13, a probe sub-cover 16 that is in close contact with the outer periphery of the waveguide 13, and a seal that is interposed between the waveguide 13 and the probe sub-cover 16 to close the distal end of the waveguide 13. The member 15, a cap-type probe cover 17 attached to the distal end of the probe sub-cover 16, and provided on the outer periphery of the probe sub-cover 16 so as to be detachable from the main body 11 to hold the probe cover 17 in place. And a positioning cap 18, but the probe part is
A probe unit main body in which the waveguide 13 and the probe sub-cover 16 are integrated, a cap-type probe cover 17 for closing the distal end opening of the probe unit main body, and a main body 11 provided on the outer periphery of the probe unit main body. Make it removable,
A structure including a positioning cap 18 for retaining and holding the probe cover 17, and a structure in which the sealing member 15 is not provided at the distal end of the waveguide 13 may be used.

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment.

The electrical configuration in the main body of this embodiment may be replaced by another configuration having a common function. As the temperature detecting means, a configuration such as a thermocouple may be used instead of the infrared detecting method.

The body 11 or the probe 12
It is also possible to provide a means for preliminarily heating, and to perform a detection after raising the temperature to about the body temperature before measurement.

[0079]

As described above, according to the first aspect,
It is possible to provide a thermometer that can quickly and accurately measure a body temperature in conformity with a small ear canal of an infant and can always keep it clean. Also, with the positioning member removed from the main body and the probe sub-cover exposed, remove the dirty probe cover, cover the tip of the probe sub-cover with a new probe cover, and attach the positioning member to the main body. ,
Since a new probe cover can be retained and retained, anyone can easily replace the probe cover. Claim 2
According to this, since the probe cover is formed to be very thin, the positioning member can be smoothly attached and detached. Further, according to the third aspect, the region facing the distal end opening of the waveguide in the probe cover is kept radially outwardly tensioned, so that a constant infrared transmittance is always guaranteed, and accurate body temperature measurement can be performed. it can. According to the fourth aspect, since the probe cover is gradually pulled and gripped, there is no possibility that the probe cover is broken when the positioning member is attached or detached. Further, according to the seventh aspect, it is possible to provide a thermometer that can quickly and accurately measure a body temperature in accordance with a small ear canal of an infant and can always keep the body clean. In addition, remove the positioning member from the main body, remove the dirty probe cover from the probe main body, put a new probe cover on the tip of the probe main body, attach the positioning member to the main body, and keep the new probe cover from coming off Because you can hold
Anyone can easily replace the probe cover.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 shows a thermometer according to a first embodiment of the present invention, wherein (a) is a schematic front view and (b) is a schematic rear view.

FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of the thermometer of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the thermometer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a schematic sectional view showing a configuration example of a probe section of the thermometer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a schematic front view of a positioning cap of the thermometer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which a top region of a probe cover is held in a tensioned state by a positioning cap.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory view showing a state where the thermometer of FIG. 1 is held in a hand for use.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which a body temperature is detected in the state of FIG. 7;

9A and 9B are diagrams showing how the thermometer of FIG. 1 is used by an operator such as a mother, wherein FIG. 9A is a measurement in which an infant C is held on a knee and turned to the front, and FIG. (C) shows a state in which the head of the infant C is placed on the knee and the back is turned, and (c) is a state in which the infant C is held on the knee and the back is turned. (D) shows how the mother measures her own body temperature.

FIG. 10 is a view showing a second embodiment of the thermometer according to the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a view showing a third embodiment of the thermometer according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Thermometer 11 Main body 11a Upper case 11b Lower case 11d, 11e (Main body) side surface 12 Probe part 13 Waveguide 15 Sealing means 16 Probe subcover 17 Probe cover 34 Display means 35 Operation switch.

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Yusuke Kawano 5-1, Kanda Toyama-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Vision (72) Inventor Hiroyuki Uehara 5-1-1, Kanda Toyama-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Incorporated (72) Inventor Yoji Ishimaru 5-1, Kanda Toyama-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo F-term (reference) 2G066 AC13 BA51 BA57 BB15

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A main body accommodating a temperature measuring means, and a probe portion attached to an opening provided in the main body, wherein the probe portion guides infrared rays into a thermometer main body, A cover member which covers the periphery of the waveguide and is formed so as to be inserted into the ear canal of an infant; And a cylindrical positioning member having an outer shape larger than the cover member so as to form a sealed space inside the cover member, wherein the cover member has an opening at a distal end, and the waveguide A cylindrical probe sub-cover that is closely adhered to the periphery of the probe sub-cover and has a base end portion disposed in the main body; and is detachably interposed between the probe sub-cover and the positioning member. And a cap-type probe cover having a light-transmitting function, wherein an outer peripheral surface of the probe sub-cover is formed in a tapered shape having a larger diameter toward a base end side, and a cap cylindrical portion of the probe cover is formed. A thermometer sandwiched between an outer peripheral surface of the probe sub-cover and an inner peripheral surface of an opening of the positioning member. 2. The thermometer according to claim 1, wherein the probe cover is made of a stretchable resin film. 3. The probe cover according to claim 1, wherein
The flange according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a step is provided on an inner peripheral surface of the opening of the positioning member to engage with the flange on the probe cover side in the axial direction. Thermometer. 4. The thermometer according to claim 3, wherein the probe cover and the main body are screwed together. 5. A transparent sealing means disposed between said waveguide and said probe sub-cover, said transparent sealing means closing a front end opening of said waveguide. The thermometer according to any one of the above. 6. The probe sub cover according to claim 1, wherein
An abutting portion for abutting against the peripheral edge of the opening of the main body; and attaching the positioning member to the main body, whereby the abutting portion abuts on sealing means exposed at the opening of the main body. The thermometer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the probe section and the opening of the main body are sealed by being in contact with each other. 7. A main body accommodating the temperature measuring means, and a probe portion attached to an opening provided in the main body and formed thin so as to be inserted into an ear canal of an infant, wherein the probe portion is provided. A cylindrical probe body provided with a waveguide for guiding infrared light into the thermometer body, and located at a base end around the probe body, attached to and detached from the body side, and at the periphery of the ear canal. A cylindrical positioning member having an outer shape larger than the probe unit main body, so as to abut inside to form a sealed space, and is detachably interposed between the probe unit main body and the positioning member. A cap-type probe cover having a light-transmitting function for closing the distal end opening; Thermometer cap tubular portion is characterized by being sandwiched between the opening inner peripheral surface of the outer peripheral surface and the positioning member of the probe body.