Veterinary thermometer, veterinary thermometer system and thermometer holder

Abstract

The present invention relates to a veterinary thermometer (1) with a thermal sensor element (10) designed to detect the body temperature of an animal, preferably rectally, and with a display element (14) designed to display the detected body temperature of the animal to a user. The veterinary thermometer (1) is characterized by a control unit designed to receive the detected body temperature of the thermal sensor element (10) and to evaluate it relative to at least one predetermined temperature limit value, wherein the veterinary thermometer (1), preferably its control unit, is designed to output an acoustic, optical and / or haptic indication to the user when the predetermined temperature limit value is undershot and / or exceeded.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a veterinary thermometer, a veterinary thermometer system and a thermometer holder therefor.

[0002] In veterinary medicine, it is common practice to measure body temperature in various animal species using a veterinary thermometer. The most common application is measuring body temperature in mammals, which is usually done rectally. In any case, body temperature represents an important vital sign that can provide information about or contribute to the animal's current state of health.

[0003] Known veterinary thermometers of this type typically feature a measuring tip with the actual thermal sensor element that is inserted rectally into the animal. The measuring tip extends elongatedly from a thermometer body, which is held by the user with their fingers or hand. The thermometer body features a display of the measured temperature and usually at least one on / off button. The electronics and usually a replaceable battery are located within the thermometer body. In any case, the measuring range is typically from 32.0°C to 43.9°C.

[0004] Depending on the size of the animals, a distinction is usually made between veterinary thermometers for large animals such as horses, cows, pigs, sheep, and the like, and for small animals such as cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, and the like. The different veterinary thermometers are sized accordingly.

[0005] A disadvantage of conventional veterinary thermometers is that rectal application to mammals is not always easy for the user, especially for non-veterinarians. Poor visibility conditions with large animals, such as in poorly lit stables, during rain, and / or at dusk on pastures, can make rectal application difficult. If a flashlight or similar device is required for this reason, the user must use one hand for the veterinary thermometer and the other for the flashlight, leaving one hand unused to hold a horse's tail, for example.

[0006] It should be noted that non-targeted rectal application of the measuring tip of the veterinary thermometer to the animal may lead to an increased risk of injury to the user by causing an angry reaction in the animal.

[0007] Another disadvantage is that the displays, especially liquid crystal displays (LCDs), of conventional veterinary thermometers are currently unlit and therefore relatively difficult for the user to read. This is especially true in poor visibility conditions, such as with large animals in poorly lit stables, during rain and / or at dusk on pastures, and similar situations, as previously mentioned.

[0008] Another disadvantage is that a merely displayed measured value of the animal's body temperature must be interpreted by the user, which can lead, at least for laypeople, to an incorrect assessment of this vital sign or the animal's state of health. It should be noted that body temperatures and their threshold values, which are to be assessed as normal or physiological, elevated or high or critically elevated, as well as hypothermia or critically hypothermia, can differ at least slightly not only between large and small animals, but also between large animals and small animals themselves. This may not be known to the user, especially as a layperson, or may not be sufficiently aware to take this into account.

[0009] Another disadvantage is that the veterinary thermometer must be repeatedly removed or put away after use or in between uses to keep the hand free for other steps of the examination and the like. This is especially true when using the familiar veterinary thermometers in the veterinary field, whether by the veterinarian or by the farmer, when several animals need to be examined one after the other and their body temperature measured. As a result, the veterinary thermometer can fall down, get lost, or be placed relatively far away from where it is used, especially when used in the stable or on the pasture, which can represent additional effort and cost time.

[0010] Another disadvantage is that current veterinary thermometers require battery consumption, which incurs corresponding costs and poses a burden on the environment due to the extraction, processing, and subsequent disposal of the required raw materials. The use of batteries in current veterinary thermometers cannot therefore be considered sustainable.

[0011] An object of the present invention is to improve the possibilities for temperature detection or measurement in animals of the type described above, so that at least some of the disadvantages mentioned above can be at least partially eliminated or at least reduced. In particular, rectal application should be made easier for the user. Additionally or alternatively, the recognition or reading of the measured value should be improved for the user. Additionally or alternatively, the understanding or evaluation of the measured value should be improved for the user. Additionally or alternatively, the storage of the veterinary thermometer when not in use, in particular for short periods, should be improved for the user. Additionally or alternatively, the use of batteries for electrically powering the veterinary thermometer should be avoided.In any case, this should be as simple, cost-effective, robust, compact, and / or intuitive for the user as possible. At the very least, an alternative to the existing options should be created.

[0012] The object is achieved according to the invention by a plurality of veterinary thermometers, a veterinary thermometer system, and a thermometer holder having the features of the independent claims. Advantageous further developments are described in the subclaims. The features of the various veterinary thermometers according to the invention can also be combined with one another or used in combination with one another.

[0013] Thus, the present invention relates to a veterinary thermometer having a thermal sensor element configured to detect the body temperature of an animal, preferably rectally, and having a display element configured to display the detected body temperature of the animal to a user.

[0014] The veterinary thermometer according to the invention is characterized by a control unit which is designed to receive the detected body temperature of the thermal sensor element and to evaluate it relative to at least one predetermined temperature limit value, wherein the veterinary thermometer, preferably its control unit, is designed to output an acoustic, optical and / or haptic indication to the user when the predetermined temperature limit value is undershot and / or exceeded.

[0015] Thus, as previously known, an animal's temperature can be measured using a known thermal sensor element, and the measured value can be converted or converted by the control unit of the veterinary thermometer into a corresponding temperature value, particularly in Celsius. This temperature value can, as previously known, also be displayed to the user using the display element, such as, in particular, an LCD display. The sensor element can preferably be designed to measure temperature values ​​in the range of approximately 25°C to approximately 45°C, which can be a particularly relevant measuring range.

[0016] According to the invention, the temperature value itself or the recorded measurement variable on which the temperature value is based can additionally be compared with at least one predetermined temperature value. This temperature value acts as a limit value to separate a range of the temperature scale that is to be regarded as the physiological, normal or healthy range of body temperature from a range of the temperature scale that is to be regarded as the abnormal or unhealthy range of body temperature. This can preferably be done around the normal or healthy range of body temperature, both upwards, i.e. towards excessively high body temperatures, and downwards, i.e. towards excessively low body temperatures. Preferably, a distinction can also be made between minor and critical deviations from the normal or healthy range of the animal's body temperature, which can lead to more meaningful indications.

[0017] In any case, the veterinary thermometer or its control unit can assess or differentiate according to the invention whether the recorded temperature value is to be regarded as a normal or healthy body temperature of the animal or as abnormal or unhealthy. At least in the event that the recorded temperature value is to be regarded as an abnormal or unhealthy body temperature of the animal, a message can be issued to the user to inform the user of this or to draw their attention to this. This can be done in the same way for both a too low and a too high body temperature of the animal, i.e. in the same way, or differently, as will be described in more detail below. In any case, in the event that the recorded temperature value is to be regarded as a normal or healthy body temperature of the animal or as abnormal or unhealthy.healthy, such a reference is omitted, which can be a simple way of distinguishing.

[0018] In any case, this can help the user, especially as a private pet owner or layperson, to better and correctly assess the recorded temperature value or the animal's body temperature. This is especially true if both a too low and too high body temperature of the animal can be detected and alerted to.

[0019] In particular, the user can, if necessary, forego reading the recorded temperature value and rely on receiving a notification if the animal's body temperature is too low or too high, in order to only then read the recorded temperature value, and otherwise forgo this, since without such a notification the animal's body temperature is considered normal or healthy and therefore does not require any closer examination.

[0020] In any case, an acoustic signal can be provided via a suitable microphone or similar device so that the user can hear the signal. This can be, for example, a warning tone, a beep, a voice output, and the like. This can also include the voice output of the recorded temperature value.

[0021] Preferably, a short beep is emitted in each case to notify the user that the sensory measurement or recording of the animal's body temperature has been completed. A longer or multiple beeps can then be emitted if the user needs to be alerted to an abnormal or unhealthy body temperature of the animal. This can inform the user that the measurement has been completed and, if necessary, also alert them to an abnormal or unhealthy body temperature of the animal. This can be easily implemented.

[0022] Additionally or alternatively, a visual indication can be provided by means of a corresponding light element, the display element itself or the like, so that the user can see the indication. If, for example, a light element is used to illuminate the thermal sensor element, as will be described in more detail below, the light element that is already present can be used to light up or flash, which can also be done differently to distinguish between a body temperature that is too low and one that is too high, for example by flashing slowly or quickly. Additionally or alternatively, the display element that is already present can in turn light up or flash, as described above. The display element can also be colored and display a corresponding color, for example as numerical values ​​of the recorded temperature and / or as a background oras a border around the displayed measured temperature. The color can also be selected to distinguish a body temperature that is too low, for example, as blue, from a body temperature that is too high, for example, as red, as will be described in more detail below.

[0023] Additionally or alternatively, a haptic cue can be provided using a corresponding vibration element so that the user can feel the cue. For this purpose, the veterinary thermometer can vibrate to differentiate an abnormal or unhealthy body temperature from a normal or healthy body temperature, for which no haptic cue is provided. Different vibrations, particularly those of varying intensity, can also differentiate between an animal's body temperature that is too low and too high.

[0024] The combination of at least two and preferably all three such possibilities for generating a hint to the user can be particularly effective in maintaining the user's attention.

[0025] In any case, the veterinary thermometer according to the invention or each veterinary thermometer according to the invention can be manufactured in different sizes or scales in order to be dimensioned and applicable, for example, either for large animals or for small animals.

[0026] According to one aspect of the invention, the acoustic, optical and / or haptic indication to the user is different at a sub-temperature and at an elevated temperature and / or the acoustic, optical and / or haptic indication to the user is different at a critical or at a slight temperature.

[0027] This can thus enable a respective distinction, as already fundamentally described above, as to whether the normal or healthy range of the animal's body temperature is exceeded or exceeded. Additionally or alternatively, a distinction can also be made as to how much or how far the normal or healthy range of the animal's body temperature is exceeded, preferably upwards or downwards, by providing several limit values ​​in this direction of deviation from the normal or healthy range of the animal's body temperature and using them for comparison. This can enable a finer distinction between the abnormal or unhealthy temperature ranges, which can be indicated accordingly in different ways as described above.

[0028] According to a further aspect of the invention, the veterinary thermometer further comprises a selection control element, preferably a selection pushbutton, which is designed to be operated, preferably pressed, by a user to switch between at least two animal species, wherein the predetermined temperature limit depends on the selected animal species. The selectable animal species can preferably be limited to large animal species or small animal species if the veterinary thermometer according to the invention is designed or dimensioned either for large animals or for small animals.

[0029] This aspect of the invention is based on the recognition that the predetermined threshold values ​​between the animal's normal or healthy body temperature and excessively low or excessively high body temperature, possibly differentiated into minor and critical deviations, depend on the animal species. Therefore, the predetermined temperature threshold or the different temperature threshold values ​​can be stored for each selectable animal species, particularly in a memory of the control unit, to be selected by the user via the selection control element, so that the veterinary thermometer according to the invention can be adapted to the animal species to be examined. Accordingly, an indication of an abnormal or unhealthy body temperature of the animal is only given if this is actually the case for the selected animal species of the animal to be examined.

[0030] Using a selection push button as the selection control element can keep the implementation of this function simple, compact, and cost-effective, as well as intuitive for the user. A single press allows the user to cycle through all stored animal species in succession until the desired species is reached and the user does not press the selection push button again. This can be done in a loop, allowing the stored animal species to be cycled through repeatedly in the same order.

[0031] The stored animal species and their order can be listed, for example, in an instruction manual to inform the user in which order to select which animal species. The currently selected animal species can also be visually indicated, as described in more detail below. Alternatively or additionally, a sound specific to the respective animal species, such as a neigh, a bark, or the like, can be emitted acoustically to acoustically indicate the currently selected animal species.

[0032] According to a further aspect of the invention, the veterinary thermometer, preferably the display element, is configured to visually display the selected animal species, preferably as a symbol. This can make it easier for the user to make the desired selection of the animal species to be examined, as previously mentioned. This can be particularly simple and intuitive as a displayed symbol, and can be understood without any language skills.

[0033] According to a further aspect of the invention, the selection control element is further configured to switch the veterinary thermometer on and off, preferably by operating it for a longer time than for switching the animal species. Thus, a conventional function of switching the veterinary thermometer on and off can be performed with the same control element with which the animal species to be examined can be selected as described above. This eliminates the need for an additional corresponding control element, which can save costs, weight, and space, as well as making the exterior or appearance of the veterinary thermometer clearer, clearer, and more appealing to the user.

[0034] According to a further aspect of the invention, the display element is designed as a backlit liquid crystal display. The liquid crystal display can also be referred to as an LCD display. In any case, this allows for greater brightness of the display element, which can make the displayed information easier or more easily recognizable and legible for the user. This can be particularly advantageous in poor or limited visibility conditions.

[0035] According to a further aspect of the invention, the predetermined temperature limit represents: • a temperature limit of a critical sub-temperature, • a temperature limit of a slight undertemperature, • a temperature limit of a slightly increased temperature and / or • a temperature limit of a critically elevated temperature.

[0036] This allows a corresponding distinction to be implemented in concrete terms, as already described above.

[0037] The present invention also relates to a veterinary thermometer with a thermal sensor element which is designed to detect the body temperature of an animal, preferably rectally.

[0038] In this case, the veterinary thermometer according to the invention is characterized by at least one luminous element configured to illuminate the thermal sensor element and / or an area directly in front of the thermal sensor element, preferably in a directed manner. Any suitable luminous elements can be used for this purpose.

[0039] This aspect of the invention is based on the finding that previously known veterinary thermometers are used with a flashlight or a flashlight function of a user's mobile device, such as a smartphone, to locate the measurement location on the animal when using the known veterinary thermometer. This applies in particular to rectal measurements of the animal's body temperature.

[0040] Since this can be difficult for the user without light, especially in poor or limited visibility conditions, and using a flashlight or flashlight function requires one of the user's hands, the function of a flashlight or flashlight function is shifted to the veterinary thermometer according to the invention in that the veterinary thermometer according to the invention itself can illuminate the thermal sensor element and / or its area of ​​application. In this way, lighting can be used without the user having to use an additional device such as a flashlight or their smartphone. This also allows the user's other hand to remain free to be used for other purposes when examining the animal.

[0041] For this purpose, the light from the luminous element can, in principle, be emitted away from the veterinary thermometer according to the invention, as long as sufficient light at or around the thermal sensor element can be used to illuminate the measurement site on the animal. However, preferably directing the luminous element precisely toward the measurement site on the animal, i.e., directing it, can enable more effective illumination. This can also prevent dazzling the user and other persons and / or animals in the immediate vicinity.

[0042] In any case, the luminous element can be designed to be as smooth and flat as possible, in particular with a smooth surface embedded in the housing of the veterinary thermometer, in order to facilitate cleaning.

[0043] In any case, the light element can be switched on when the veterinary thermometer is switched on and immediately begin to illuminate, providing this function continuously until the veterinary thermometer itself is switched off again, which then also applies to the light element. However, this can increase electrical consumption accordingly. Continuous illumination can also be perceived as annoying by users, etc., when lighting is not required. Therefore, the light element can preferably be switched on and off individually, as described in more detail below.

[0044] According to one aspect of the invention, the luminous element is arranged in a ring around the thermal sensor element. This can enable or promote the most uniform and complete illumination possible.

[0045] According to a further aspect of the invention, the luminous element comprises at least one LED, preferably a plurality of LEDs, particularly preferably an LED ring. This allows the properties of LEDs (light-emitting diodes), such as low energy consumption, long service life, low costs, low heat generation, and compact installation space, to be utilized in the veterinary thermometer according to the invention.

[0046] According to a further aspect of the invention, the veterinary thermometer further comprises a light control element, preferably a light pushbutton, which is designed to be operated, preferably pressed, by a user to turn the light element on or off. This allows the light element to be switched on and off separately or independently, so that the illumination is used only when needed by the user.

[0047] The present invention further relates to a veterinary thermometer with a thermal sensor element which is designed to detect the body temperature of an animal, preferably rectally.

[0048] In this case, the veterinary thermometer according to the invention is characterized by at least one solar cell designed to absorb ambient light and convert it into electrical voltage. For this purpose, the solar cell, and in particular a plurality of solar cells, comparable to a pocket calculator, can be used to convert light into electricity during use of the veterinary thermometer, particularly outdoors or in a well-lit environment, in order to directly power or operate the veterinary thermometer. Additionally or alternatively, storage can be provided by means of an accumulator or buffering can be provided by means of a capacitor in order to generate electrical power when there is sufficient brightness and to use it later, particularly when there is less brightness.

[0049] In any case, this approach eliminates the need for batteries to power or operate the veterinary thermometer, which can save costs and resources. It can also increase the availability of the veterinary thermometer, which has previously been limited by the finite amount of electrical power a battery can provide.

[0050] According to a further aspect of the invention, the thermal sensor element is designed as a measuring tip. This can particularly facilitate rectal measurement of body temperature.

[0051] According to a further aspect of the invention, the measuring tip is designed to be flexible, preferably by means of a flexible transition relative to a thermometer body. This allows a certain degree of flexibility of the measuring tip, in particular a spring-elastic or self-resetting flexibility, so that the pressure or force on the animal can be reduced or limited if, particularly in the case of rectal application, the user cannot accurately locate the temperature measurement site. This can thereby reduce or minimize the stress on the animal. This can be implemented in particular in veterinary thermometers according to the invention, which are designed or dimensioned for small animals.

[0052] According to a further aspect of the invention, the veterinary thermometer further comprises at least one holding element designed to be attached to an object and to keep the veterinary thermometer readily accessible. This allows properties and advantages, as explained below with reference to the thermometer holder according to the invention or the veterinary thermometer system according to the invention, to be implemented and utilized directly in the veterinary thermometer itself.

[0053] According to a further aspect of the invention, the holding element is formed along the longitudinal extension direction of the veterinary thermometer and / or around the veterinary thermometer. This allows properties and advantages, as explained below with reference to the thermometer holder according to the invention or the veterinary thermometer system according to the invention, to be implemented and utilized in a comparable manner directly on the veterinary thermometer itself.

[0054] According to a further aspect of the invention, the holding element is designed as a magnet, preferably as a magnetic strip. This allows properties and advantages, as explained further below with reference to the thermometer holder according to the invention or the veterinary thermometer system according to the invention, to be implemented and utilized in a comparable manner directly on the veterinary thermometer itself. When implementing this feature directly on the veterinary thermometer itself, it is preferably important to ensure that the magnet is embedded in the outside of the veterinary thermometer and thus does not protrude outwards, or protrudes as little as possible, in order to create the smoothest possible outside, which facilitates the cleaning of the veterinary thermometer, which is usually frequently required during use.

[0055] The present invention further relates to a veterinary thermometer system comprising a veterinary thermometer, preferably as described above, and a thermometer holder which is designed to receive the veterinary thermometer through an opening in a receiving space, wherein the thermometer holder has at least one holding element which is designed to be attached to an object and to present the veterinary thermometer ready for access.

[0056] Thus, by means of the thermometer holder according to the invention, the user can be provided with the possibility of "handling" a known veterinary thermometer compatible with the thermometer holder, and in particular a veterinary thermometer according to the invention as described above, more easily than previously known, while still being able to pick it up within easy reach, making it easier for the user to keep an eye on the veterinary thermometer and to be able to pick it up and use it more quickly. In particular, the thermometer holder can prevent the veterinary thermometer from rolling away, falling down, and the like, since the thermometer holder can act as an interface between the environment or between an object in the environment and the picked-up veterinary thermometer.

[0057] The object or environment in question could be, in particular, the user's clothing, a treatment case, or the like, a vehicle, or the like. However, this could also be a treatment table or the like in a veterinary practice. In a stable or similar setting, this could also be the surroundings, such as a stable door, a stable wall, or the like.

[0058] In any case, the thermometer holder can be attached to the object using any suitable mechanism as a holding element, which also allows for non-destructive separation from the object. This can be done, for example, using a multi-adhesive surface of the thermometer holder as a holding element. This can be done using an adhesive part of a hook and loop fastener of the thermometer holder as a holding element on a suitable surface of the object as a fleece part. This can be done using a hook, a spring-loaded clip similar to a ballpoint pen or the like of the thermometer holder as a holding element opposite an edge or the like of the object. This can be done in particular using a magnet, in particular a permanent magnet, of the thermometer holder as a holding element in order to be non-destructively separated or separated by means of magnetic attraction.to be removably held or attached to a metallic surface, such as a metal cabinet, a metal door, a metallic bar of a stable, or the like. In particular, the holding element can be designed as a spring-loaded clip made of a permanent magnetic material, so that the thermometer holder can be held on the one hand like a ballpoint pen, for example, on or in a shirt pocket or the like, and on the other hand on a metallic surface.

[0059] According to one aspect of the invention, the holding element is formed along the longitudinal extension direction of the thermometer holder and / or around the thermometer holder. These may represent specific suitable implementation options.

[0060] An elongated holding element, for example as a multi-adhesive adhesive strip, as the adhesive part of a hook-and-loop fastener, as a spring-loaded clip, as a magnetic strip, as a magnetic spring-loaded clip, and the like, can have a correspondingly large effective surface, which can provide a correspondingly good and secure hold. However, this can be disadvantageous in that the user must align the locally elongated surface of the holding element towards the object in order to achieve the holding effect. This can be perceived by the user as cumbersome, especially in poor visibility conditions, and can be time-consuming. Inappropriate alignment of the holding element to the object can lead to insufficient holding force or holding effect, with the result that the thermometer holder may fall off.

[0061] Alternatively, forming the holding element around the thermometer holder can reduce or eliminate the effort of aligning the holding element to the object, since in this case the holding element is formed or arranged around the thermometer holder in every direction. This allows the user to attach the thermometer holder to the object with either side. However, to still generate sufficient holding force in every orientation, the holding element must be designed to be correspondingly large or with a large surface area and strong effect, which can increase the required installation space or surface area, the weight of the holding element, and its cost.

[0062] According to a further aspect of the invention, the holding element is designed as a magnet, preferably as a magnetic strip. This can be implemented, in particular, using a permanent magnet to eliminate the need for an electrical supply to generate the magnetic force. This can also be achieved using individual magnets or magnetic elements, which together form the resulting magnet as the holding element.

[0063] In any case, this can be a particularly practical way of implementation, since metallic surfaces and objects, as already described, can be found in many different places, especially in stables and the like, and are suitable for holding the thermometer holder.

[0064] The magnetic strip can preferably be the elongated, freestanding or spring-loaded part of a spring-loaded clip, similar to a ballpoint pen clip, in order to combine its force- or form-fitting attachment with a magnetic or permanent-magnetic attachment, as previously described. This can expand the possibilities for attaching or holding the thermometer holder to objects.

[0065] According to a further aspect of the invention, the thermometer holder has at least one solar cell on its outside, which is designed to absorb ambient light and convert it into electrical voltage. The thermometer holder is further designed to transmit the electrical voltage, preferably by means of an induction transmitter, to the received veterinary thermometer, preferably to an induction receiver of the veterinary thermometer. This can be done in addition to or alternatively to the previously described direct arrangement of a solar cell on the veterinary thermometer itself.

[0066] In any case, this method allows for direct electrical generation by the thermometer holder, thereby electrically powering or charging the veterinary thermometer if the veterinary thermometer has a rechargeable battery or capacitor. This can be achieved via electrical contacts that touch each other, but these contacts must be brought into contact and can become contaminated, both of which can be problematic. Providing an inductive coupling, preferably for this purpose, can avoid these problems.

[0067] According to a further aspect of the invention, the thermal sensor element of the veterinary thermometer is designed as a measuring tip, wherein the thermometer holder has at least one through-opening, preferably a plurality of through-openings, to the outside of the receiving space in the region of the received measuring tip of the veterinary thermometer.

[0068] This aspect of the invention is based on the finding that the measuring tip of a veterinary thermometer is usually cleaned with water after use, particularly during rectal use, and in particular rinsed under running water, whereby some water usually remains on the measuring tip and possibly also on the body of the veterinary thermometer. If the veterinary thermometer is then inserted into the thermometer holder, this water also gets into it and usually collects at the lowest point, which is usually the area of ​​the thermometer holder where the measuring tip of the veterinary thermometer is inserted. The water therefore remains there, possibly even during storage or if the veterinary thermometer is not used for an extended period, which can lead to mold, rust, and the like, particularly on the measuring tip.

[0069] According to the invention, the thermometer holder therefore has at least one through-hole in the area of ​​the received measuring tip of the veterinary thermometer to allow the water located there to escape to the outside of the thermometer holder. At the same time, the through-hole can be sufficiently small to continue to protect the measuring tip.

[0070] This can be facilitated or improved by creating multiple through-holes, as the amount of escaping water can be increased by summing the through-holes. At the same time, a reduction in the protection of the measuring tip can be avoided or minimized.

[0071] According to a further aspect of the invention, the thermometer holder, preferably the veterinary thermometer, is oval in shape. Thus, the thermometer holder has an oval cross-section, so that rolling of the thermometer holder on a surface such as a table or the like can be prevented.

[0072] The veterinary thermometer can also have a contour or cross-section other than oval, in particular cylindrical, and the receiving space of the thermometer holder can be designed to snugly accommodate the veterinary thermometer, which can be achieved, in particular, by a correspondingly different thickness of the thermometer holder wall. Preferably, the veterinary thermometer can also be oval and designed to correspond to the oval receiving space of the thermometer holder, so that it can be snugly accommodated there. This can also prevent the veterinary thermometer itself from rolling away on a surface.

[0073] The present invention also relates to a thermometer holder for use in a veterinary thermometer system as described above. This allows a thermometer holder as described above to be provided in order to provide a veterinary thermometer system as described above and to implement its features and advantages.

[0074] Several embodiments and further advantages of the invention are illustrated and explained in more detail below in conjunction with the following figures. Fig. 1 is a perspective schematic representation of a veterinary thermometer according to the invention; Fig. 2 a detailed view of the display element of the veterinary thermometer according to the invention of Fig. 1 with different animal species symbols; Fig. 3 a perspective schematic representation of a thermometer holder according to the invention according to a first embodiment; and Fig. 4 a perspective schematic representation of a thermometer holder according to the invention according to a second embodiment.

[0075] The figures above are viewed in Cartesian coordinates. There is a longitudinal axis X, which can also be referred to as depth X or length X. Perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X extends a transverse axis Y, which can also be referred to as width Y. Perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis X and the transverse axis Y extends a vertical axis Z, which can also be referred to as height Z and corresponds to the direction of gravity or gravitational force. The longitudinal axis X and the transverse axis Y together form the horizontal X, Y, which can also be referred to as the horizontal plane X, Y.

[0076] Fig. 1 shows a perspective schematic representation of a veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention. Fig. 2 shows a detailed view of the display element 14 of the veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention of the Fig. 1 with different animal species symbols.

[0077] The veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention is designed in a manner comparable to known veterinary thermometers in terms of its basic construction and function. Thus, the veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention also has a thermal sensor element 10 in the form of a measuring tip 10 for performing a rectal measurement of the body temperature of an animal.

[0078] The veterinary thermometer 1 extends from the measuring tip 10 by means of an increasingly widening or thickening transition 11 or neck 11 into the essentially cylindrically flattened thermometer body 13, which accommodates electronics (not shown) and an electrical energy storage device in the form of a replaceable battery. The body 13 has an external display element 14 for displaying the sensor-detected temperature. The veterinary thermometer 1 can be switched on and off by the user using an on / off control element 15 in the form of an on / off push button 15 by operating or pressing it, or if necessary, by pressing it for a longer period.

[0079] The veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention differs in several respects from the previously described known veterinary thermometer.

[0080] Thus, the veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention has a lighting element 12 in the form of several LEDs 12 or as an LED ring 12, which is arranged in a ring shape in the region of the neck 11. The LEDs 12 are aligned toward the measuring tip 10 in order to illuminate the measuring tip 10 and an area directly in front of the measuring tip 10. This can make use easier for the user, especially in poor visibility conditions.

[0081] The veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention has a light control element 16 in the form of a light push button 16 at the end opposite the measuring tip 10, which can be operated or pressed by the user to turn the light element 12 on or off. Thus, the function of illuminating the measuring tip 10 can be switched on and off separately and thus used selectively.

[0082] As a further independent function, the veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention has the option of switching between several animal species by operating or pressing, if necessary by briefly pressing, the on / off push button 15 when the veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention has already been switched on, or of switching through the different animal species by pressing it several times, which is why the on / off push button 15 can also be used as a selection control element 15 or as a selection push button 15. The currently selected animal species can be shown in the right-hand area of ​​the display element 14 as a symbol by means of an animal species display 14b, cf. Fig. 2, next to the temperature display 14a on the left, to facilitate the selection. The currently selected animal species can also be communicated to the user acoustically by a sound specific to the respective animal species, such as neighing, barking, and the like.

[0083] The selected animal species now affects the function of the veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention in such a way that, for each animal species, several temperature limit values, i.e. limit values ​​of the body temperature, are stored in a memory (not shown) of the control unit of the veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention, which are selected or loaded by the user selecting the corresponding animal species. These predetermined temperature limit values ​​can be, for each animal species, along the temperature scale from bottom to top, a temperature limit value of a critically low temperature, a temperature limit value of a slightly low temperature, a temperature limit value of a slightly elevated temperature and a temperature limit value of a critically elevated temperature. The range of normal, healthy orThe physiological body temperatures of the animal species lie between the temperature limit of a slightly lower temperature and the temperature limit of a slightly higher temperature.

[0084] The control unit of the veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention is configured to receive the detected body temperature of the thermal sensor element 10 or the measuring tip 10 and to evaluate it relative to the four predetermined temperature thresholds of the selected animal species. If the detected body temperature of the animal lies outside the physiological range, the control unit is configured to output an acoustic, optical, and / or haptic indication to the user. A distinction can be made, or the indication can vary, depending on whether the detected body temperature is below or above the physiological range and whether this is to be regarded as a minor deviation or a critical deviation from the physiological range.

[0085] Such an indication can be provided, for example, by a slow and / or quiet beep for a minor deviation and a fast and / or loud beep for a critical deviation. The beeps can also be different, for example, as a high or low pitch, to distinguish a downward deviation from an upward deviation.

[0086] Additionally, the display element 14 can be colored, with the temperature indicator 14a and / or the animal species indicator 14b, for example, displaying it in green if the animal's physiological body temperature range is maintained. A slightly sub-zero temperature can be indicated by a light blue color, and a critically sub-zero temperature by a dark blue color. Similarly, a slightly elevated temperature can be indicated by an orange color, and a critically elevated temperature, indicating fever, can be indicated by a red color. Critical deviations can also be made clear to the user by a flashing temperature indicator 14a and / or animal species indicator 14b.

[0087] Additionally, vibration may also occur if the animal's physiological body temperature range is not maintained. Here, too, differentiation is possible, as described above, through the frequency and / or amplitude of the vibrations generated.

[0088] In any case, the user can be supported in assessing the recorded or measured body temperature appropriately for the respective animal species. The basic assessment can be performed by the veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention based on slight or critical low or elevated temperatures.

[0089] Independently of this, the veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention can facilitate the readability of at least the recorded temperature value on the temperature display 14a and, if appropriate, also the selected animal species on the animal species display 14b by embodying the display element 14 as a backlit display element 14 in the form of a backlit liquid crystal display 14. This can be combined with a color display as described above.

[0090] In any case, the measuring tip 10 is designed to be flexible, which can be achieved by means of a flexible transition 11 relative to the thermometer body 13. Thus, the transition 11 comprises a material that is flexible relative to the thermometer body 13, so that the measuring tip 10 is flexible to a certain extent in order to yield slightly under pressure or force, thereby avoiding or at least reducing injuries or unpleasant contact for the animal.

[0091] Fig. 3 shows a perspective schematic representation of a thermometer holder 2 according to the invention according to a first embodiment. Fig. 4 shows a perspective schematic representation of a thermometer holder 2 according to the invention according to a second embodiment.

[0092] The thermometer holder 2 in any case essentially has the shape or contour of the veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention, so that the veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention or also a correspondingly shaped known veterinary thermometer can be received in the receiving space 20 of the thermometer holder 2 through a circular opening 20a of a receiving space 20 of the thermometer holder 2 in the latter by the user inserting the veterinary thermometer 1 into the receiving space 20 of the thermometer holder 2. The thermometer holder 2 can thus receive or present the veterinary thermometer 1 ready for access. The upper area of ​​the veterinary thermometer 1 with the light push button 16 can protrude from the receiving space 20 of the thermometer holder 2, i.e. be designed to be correspondingly longer than the thermometer holder 2 in order to be easily gripped by the user and pulled out of the receiving space 20 of the thermometer holder 2.

[0093] The thermometer holder 2 further comprises a holding element 22, which is designed to be attached to an object (not shown). The object can preferably be a metallic object, such as the bars of a stable. Accordingly, the holding element 22 is designed as a magnet 22 or as a magnetic strip 22 and is permanently magnetic. In the case of the first embodiment of the Fig. 3, the magnetic strip 22 is formed along the longitudinal extension direction of the thermometer holder 2, so that the thermometer holder 2 can be held to a metallic surface with comparatively little magnetic material, but for this purpose, the user must place it there in an appropriately aligned manner. The magnetic strip can preferably be the elongated, freestanding or resilient part of a resilient clip, comparable to a ballpoint pen clip (not shown), and can be held both force-fittingly and positively, as well as magnetically.

[0094] In the case of the second embodiment of the Fig. 3, the magnetic strip 22 is formed in a closed ring around the thermometer holder 2, so that the thermometer holder 2 can be placed radially directly against a metallic surface by the user and held there, but a comparatively large amount of magnetic material is required to achieve the required holding force everywhere.

[0095] In any case, the thermometer holder 2 has a plurality of solar cells 23 on its outside, which are designed to absorb ambient light and convert it into electrical voltage. In the case of the first embodiment, the solar cells 23 are Fig. 3 is arranged rather away from the magnetic strip 22 in order to be directed away from the object.

[0096] In any case, the thermometer holder 2 is further designed to transmit the electrical voltage by means of an induction transmitter 24 to an induction receiver 17 of the veterinary thermometer 1, cf. Fig. 1 and Fig.2. This allows charging of an accumulator (not shown) of the veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention, thereby eliminating the need for the battery previously used.

[0097] In any case, the area of ​​the thermometer holder 2 applied to the opening 20a of the receiving space 20, which receives the measuring tip 1 of the veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention, has a plurality of through openings 21 to the outside of the receiving space 20, which connect the receiving space 20 to the environment in such a way that water and other liquids which may be located within the receiving space 20 of the thermometer holder 2 can escape to the outside.

[0098] According to the invention, it would also be possible for the veterinary thermometer 1, in addition to or as an alternative to the two considered embodiments of the thermometer holder 2, to have solar cells in order to charge itself, i.e. to absorb ambient light and convert it into electrical voltage.

[0099] Furthermore, the previously described possibilities for fastening the thermometer holder 2 by means of a permanent magnetic holding element 22 could additionally or alternatively be applied to the veterinary thermometer 1 according to the invention. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS (part of the description) X Longitudinal axis; Depth; Length Y transverse axis; width Z vertical axis; height X, Y Horizontal; horizontal plane 1, 2 veterinary thermometer system 1 veterinary thermometer 10 thermal sensor element; measuring tip 11 transition; neck 12 light elements; LEDs; LED ring 13 Thermometer body 14 color, backlit display elements; color, backlit liquid crystal display 14a Temperature display 14b Animal species display 15 Selection control element; selection push button; on / off control element; on / off push button 16 Light control element; light push button 17 induction receivers 2 thermometer holders 20 recording room 20a Opening of the recording room 20 21 through openings 22 Holding element; magnet; magnetic strip 23 solar cells 24 induction transmitters

Claims

[1] Veterinary thermometer (1) with a thermal sensor element (10) which is designed to detect the body temperature of an animal, preferably rectally, and with a display element (14) which is designed to display the detected body temperature of the animal to a user, characterized by a control unit which is designed to receive the detected body temperature of the thermal sensor element (10) and to evaluate it relative to at least one predetermined temperature limit value, wherein the veterinary thermometer (1), preferably its control unit, is designed to output an acoustic, optical and / or haptic indication to the user when the predetermined temperature limit value is undershot and / or exceeded. [2] Veterinary thermometer (1) according to claim 1, where the acoustic, optical and / or haptic indication to the user is different at a low temperature and at a high temperature and / or whereby the acoustic, optical and / or haptic indication to the user is different at a critical or at a minor temperature. [3] Veterinary thermometer (1) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a selection control element (15), preferably a selection push button (15), which is designed to be operated, preferably pressed, by a user in order to switch between at least two animal species, The predetermined temperature limit depends on the selected animal species. [4] Veterinary thermometer (1) according to claim 3, wherein the veterinary thermometer (1), preferably the display element (14), is designed to display the selected animal species optically, preferably as a symbol. [5] Veterinary thermometer (1) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the selection control element (15) is further designed to switch the veterinary thermometer (1) on and off, preferably by longer operation than for switching the animal species. [6] Veterinary thermometer (1) according to one of the preceding claims, the display element (14) is designed as a backlit display element (14), preferably as a backlit liquid crystal display (14). [7] Veterinary thermometer (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the predetermined temperature limit value represents: • a temperature limit of a critical sub-temperature, • a temperature limit of a slight undertemperature, • a temperature limit of a slightly elevated temperature and / or • a temperature limit of a critically elevated temperature. [8] Veterinary thermometer (1) with a thermal sensor element (10) which is designed to detect the body temperature of an animal, preferably rectally, characterized by at least one lighting element (12) which is designed to illuminate the thermal sensor element (10) and / or an area directly in front of the thermal sensor element (10), preferably in a directed manner. [9] Veterinary thermometer (1) according to claim 7, wherein the luminous element (12) is arranged in a ring around the thermal sensor element (10). [10] Veterinary thermometer (1) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the luminous element (12) has at least one LED (12), preferably a plurality of LEDs (12), particularly preferably an LED ring (12). [11] Veterinary thermometer (1) according to one of claims 7 to 9, further comprising a light operating element (16), preferably a light push button (16), which is designed to be operated, preferably pressed, by a user in order to switch the light element (12) on or off. [12] Veterinary thermometer (1) with a thermal sensor element (10) which is designed to detect the body temperature of an animal, preferably rectally, characterized by at least one solar cell which is designed to absorb ambient light and convert it into electrical voltage. [13] Veterinary thermometer (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the thermal sensor element (10) is designed as a measuring tip (10). [14] Veterinary thermometer (1) according to claim 13, wherein the measuring tip (10) is designed to be flexible, preferably by means of a flexible transition (11) relative to a thermometer body (13). [15] Veterinary thermometer (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one holding element which is designed to be attached to an object and to keep the veterinary thermometer (1) ready for access. [16] Veterinary thermometer (1) according to claim 15, wherein the holding element is formed along the longitudinal extension direction of the veterinary thermometer (1) and / or around the veterinary thermometer (1). [17] Veterinary thermometer (1) according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the holding element is designed as a magnet, preferably as a magnetic strip. [18] Veterinary thermometer system (1, 2) with a veterinary thermometer (1), preferably according to one of the preceding claims, and a thermometer holder (2) which is designed to receive the veterinary thermometer (1) through an opening (20a) in a receiving space (20), wherein the thermometer holder (2) has at least one holding element (22) which is designed to be attached to an object and to present the veterinary thermometer (1) ready for access. [19] Veterinary thermometer system (1, 2) according to claim 18, wherein the holding element (22) is formed along the longitudinal extension direction of the thermometer holder (2) and / or around the thermometer holder (2). [20] Veterinary thermometer system (1, 2) according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the holding element (22) is designed as a magnet (22), preferably as a magnetic strip (22). [21] Veterinary thermometer system (1, 2) according to one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the thermometer holder (2) has at least one solar cell (23) on the outside, which is designed to absorb ambient light and convert it into electrical voltage, wherein the thermometer holder (2) is further designed to transmit the electrical voltage, preferably by means of an induction transmitter (24), to the received veterinary thermometer (1), preferably to an induction receiver (17) of the veterinary thermometer (1). [22] Veterinary thermometer system (1, 2) according to one of claims 18 to 21, wherein the thermal sensor element (10) of the veterinary thermometer (1) is designed as a measuring tip (10), wherein the thermometer holder (2) has at least one through-opening (21), preferably a plurality of through-openings (21), to the outside of the receiving space (20) in the region of the received measuring tip (10) of the veterinary thermometer (1). [23] Veterinary thermometer system (1, 2) according to one of claims 18 to 22, wherein the thermometer holder (2), preferably and the veterinary thermometer (1), is oval. [24] Thermometer holder (2) for use in a veterinary thermometer system (1, 2) according to one of claims 18 to 23.

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