Bathroom temperature sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current temperature measurement methods require human activity and are not suitable for passive monitoring, especially in settings like nursing homes or hospitals where frequent measurements are needed without requiring significant nurse or aid effort.
Innovation Solution
Development of temperature sensors that can be integrated into or attached to bathroom appliances, such as toilet seats, to measure user temperature non-contactually using infrared sensing or thermal imaging, capable of recording and transmitting data to a computing device, with optional features like mounting brackets, translucent covers, and directional components for precise measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional temperature measurement methods are used, then accurate temperature readings can be obtained, but human activity and intervention are required
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature sensor system performs automatic temperature measurements without requiring user action. The sensor is integrated into the toilet seat and automatically detects and records temperature when the user is present, eliminating the need for users to manually operate a thermometer or assist from healthcare professionals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical temperature measurement methods with an automated infrared sensing system. The infrared sensor non-contactly measures temperature by detecting thermal radiation, substituting the mechanical action of inserting a thermometer with an automated optical/thermal detection system.
2Productivity
If non-contact temperature measurement is implemented, then passive monitoring is enabled, but integration into bathroom appliances is required
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature sensor is merged with the existing toilet seat structure. The sensor, mounting bracket, and housing are integrated into a single unit that attaches to or becomes part of the toilet seat, combining temperature monitoring functionality with an existing bathroom appliance without requiring a separate standalone device.
Solution Approach 2:
The toilet seat is given multiple functions: its original sanitation function plus temperature monitoring capability. By integrating the temperature sensor into the toilet seat, the appliance becomes a multi-functional device that simultaneously handles waste disposal and health monitoring, eliminating the need for separate monitoring equipment.
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 passive and efficient temperature measurement of bathroom users without human intervention, facilitating multiple readings without the need for active participation from healthcare professionals, improving monitoring capabilities in settings like nursing homes.
Implementation Method 1
measure the temperature of the user or feces expelled by the user without contacting the user or feces
Implementation Method 2
measures a temperature of a user of the appliance without contacting the user
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a temperature sensor configured to fit under a seat of a toilet that measures a temperature of a user of the toilet or feces expelled by the user without contacting the user or feces. Also provided is a temperature sensor configured to fit on a bathroom appliance that measures a temperature of a user of the appliance without contacting the user. Additionally provided is a temperature sensor configured to fit on a toilet seat that measures a temperature of skin contacting the seat. Further provided is a method of measuring temperature of a bathroom user, the method comprising using any of the above-described temperature sensors to measure the user's temperature.