Noncontact Thermometer Alignment Feedback
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-contact thermometers lack reliability due to inaccuracies in temperature measurements caused by improper alignment with external body surfaces, leading to inconsistent and often erroneous readings.
Innovation Solution
A non-contact thermometer design that includes temperature sensors mounted on a housing with a display unit and processing device, equipped with software instructions to display alignment indicators, receive measurement readings, determine temperature, and display the results, thereby assisting users in proper alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If non-contact thermometers are used to measure temperature without contact, then hygiene and safety are improved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to alignment difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements visual feedback through alignment indicators (crosshairs, target markers) displayed on a screen that show users whether the thermometer is properly positioned relative to the measurement site. Audio feedback provides verbal guidance on alignment status. This feedback mechanism enables users to adjust their positioning in real-time, resolving the accuracy problem while maintaining contactless operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary alignment indicator system that mediates between the thermometer sensor and the measurement site. This intermediary visual interface (displayed on screen or through optical viewfinders) translates the complex alignment requirements into simple visual cues, making it easier for users to achieve proper positioning without direct contact.
2Measurement precision
If alignment indicators and feedback systems are added to assist positioning, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the display unit serve multiple functions: it shows temperature readings, displays alignment indicators, provides instructional messages, and can show target acquisition status. By making the display multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing overall device complexity while still providing comprehensive alignment assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermometer automatically performs functions such as detecting whether a target is acquired, determining alignment status, and providing appropriate feedback without requiring user intervention. The system self-adjusts and self-guides the user through the measurement process, reducing the need for complex manual controls or additional operational components.
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
The solution enhances the accuracy and reliability of temperature measurements by providing visual and potentially auditory feedback for correct alignment, reducing errors associated with improper positioning.
Implementation Method 1
one or more temperature sensors mounted on the housing and configured to determine a temperature of at least one measurement site without contact
Data Source
AI summary
A thermometer includes one or more temperature sensors mounted on a housing. The one or more temperature sensors determine a temperature of at least one measurement site without contact. The non-contact thermometer displays an indicator to assist alignment of the one or more temperature sensors with the at least one measurement site, receives at least one measurement reading from the at least one measurement site, determines a temperature based on the at least one measurement reading, and displays the temperature on a display unit.