Analog Conversion Circuitry for Body-Surface Temperature Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-invasive body temperature measurement devices struggle to accurately reflect core-body temperature from body-surface measurements without requiring additional calibration or modification of existing monitoring systems, which are designed for invasive probes.
Innovation Solution
The use of body-surface thermistors coupled with analog resistance-conversion circuitry, potentially including ambient-measurement sensors, to generate an output resistance that mimics the standard invasive thermistor probes, allowing for accurate core-body temperature readings compatible with existing monitoring systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If non-invasive body-surface temperature sensors are used, then patient comfort and suitability for monitoring non-anesthetized patients is improved, but measurement accuracy of core-body temperature deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary conversion system that translates body-surface temperature measurements into core-body temperature estimates. The analog conversion circuitry acts as a mediator, applying mathematical algorithms and calibration curves to bridge the gap between easily obtainable surface temperature data and the desired core temperature measurement, thereby maintaining patient comfort while improving measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the measurement parameter from direct core temperature (invasive) to body-surface temperature (non-invasive), then applies parameter transformation through conversion algorithms. By changing the measurement location parameter and applying mathematical relationships between surface and core temperatures, the system achieves accurate core temperature monitoring without invasive procedures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If analog conversion circuitry is added to convert sensor output, then compatibility with existing monitoring systems is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the analog conversion circuitry to provide multiple functions: it converts resistance values from body-surface thermistors, applies calibration curves, performs mathematical transformations, and outputs signals compatible with standard invasive probe interfaces. This multi-functional approach allows a single circuit module to handle the entire conversion process, improving compatibility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an analog copy of the standard invasive probe output signal. By replicating the electrical characteristics and signal format of conventional thermistor probes through the conversion circuitry, the system ensures seamless compatibility with existing monitoring equipment without requiring system-wide redesign, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If body-surface sensors are used instead of invasive probes, then invasiveness is reduced, but the ability to directly measure core temperature deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/invasive measurement approach with an electronic/software-based conversion system. Instead of physically inserting probes into the body, the system uses body-surface sensors combined with analog conversion circuitry and mathematical algorithms to estimate core temperature, substituting physical intrusion with computational transformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary conversion system that translates body-surface temperature measurements into core-body temperature estimates. The analog conversion circuitry acts as a mediator, applying mathematical algorithms and calibration curves to bridge the gap between easily obtainable surface temperature data and the desired core temperature measurement, thereby maintaining patient comfort while improving measurement accuracy.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate and cost-effective derivation of core-body temperature from body-surface sensors, ensuring backward compatibility with existing systems without the need for additional calibration, providing reliable and simple temperature monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
at least one body-surface sensor, which is configured to be placed at a location on a body surface of a patient and generates a sensor output that varies according to a body-surface temperature at the location
Implementation Method 2
Analog conversion circuitry is coupled between the at least one body-surface sensor and the connector and is configured to convert the sensor output into an output resistance across the connector that is indicative of a corrected temperature of the patient
Data Source
AI summary
Thermometric apparatus includes at least one body-surface sensor, which is configured to be placed at a location on a body surface of a patient and generates a sensor output that varies according to a body-surface temperature at the location. Analog conversion circuitry is coupled between the at least one body-surface sensor and a connector for coupling to a patient monitor. The circuitry is configured to convert the sensor output into an output resistance across the connector that is indicative of a corrected temperature of the patient.