Electronic Thermometer Selectable Modes Predictive Algorithm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic thermometers face a trade-off between response time and precision, with methods to improve response time often compromising on accuracy and vice versa, failing to accommodate varying user preferences and application requirements.
Innovation Solution
An electronic thermometer with a two-mode operation that allows users to select between modes optimizing for either faster response or higher precision, utilizing a predictive algorithm that adjusts data collection based on user-selected criteria, including elapsed time or data points, to provide temperature estimates quickly and accurately.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the thermal mass of the probe is used to store heat from the patient, then the sensor can reach thermal equilibrium with the patient, but the response time becomes unacceptably long
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is divided into two distinct thermal zones: a minimal thermal mass section for rapid temperature response and a separate thermal equilibrium section for accurate measurement. This segmentation allows the sensor to quickly detect temperature changes while the larger thermal mass section ensures accurate equilibrium reading, resolving the contradiction between response time and measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
A thermally conductive material is introduced as an intermediary between the patient contact area and the temperature sensor. This intermediary material efficiently transfers heat from the patient to the sensor, enabling rapid response time while maintaining measurement accuracy without requiring the sensor itself to have large thermal mass.
2Loss of time
If predictive algorithms are used to estimate temperature quickly, then response time is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The thermometer provides dynamic measurement modes that can switch between predictive estimation and traditional equilibrium measurement based on user needs. The system can operate in fast predictive mode for quick results or in precise equilibrium mode for accurate readings, allowing the measurement precision to be adjusted according to the clinical situation rather than being fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the measurement parameters by allowing users to select between different measurement modes with different time-accuracy trade-offs. By changing the operational parameters (measurement duration, data collection frequency), the system can provide either fast estimates or precise measurements as needed.
3Loss of time
If electric heater elements are used in the probe shaft, then the response time is improved by pre-heating the thermal mass, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heating function is extracted from the main probe structure and implemented as a separate, optional feature. Rather than integrating heaters throughout the entire probe shaft, the system uses minimal heating elements only when needed, reducing the overall device complexity while still providing the benefit of reduced response time when the heating function is activated.
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 users to balance response time and precision according to specific application needs, providing faster results with adequate precision in one mode and more accurate readings in another, while preventing unnecessary data collection to enhance performance.
Implementation Method 1
the thermal mass of the probe and the sensor components may take several minutes to reach the actual body temperature of the patient being measured. The thermal mass of the probe typically begins a measurement cycle at a lower temperature than the patient being measured and absorbs heat from the patient
Implementation Method 2
the thermal mass of the probe typically begins a measurement cycle at a lower temperature than the patient being measured and absorbs heat from the patient until the patient and the thermal mass of the probe reach thermal equilibrium
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic thermometer is configured for selectable predictive modes based upon the same predictive algorithm. A mode selector is adapted for user selection between several modes of operation of the thermometer. Each mode of operation utilizes the same predictive algorithm for estimating the temperature of the subject before the thermometer reaches full equilibrium. Different modes offer users a selection for striking the appropriate balance between response time and precision, based upon user preferences and needs.