Physiological Parameter Measuring System Thermal Equilibrium
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermometer devices require an extended period to measure body temperature due to heat capacity and thermal equilibrium issues, leading to time delays in obtaining accurate readings.
Innovation Solution
A physiological parameter measuring system that includes a sensing device and a reading device, which transmit trigger signals to activate the sensing device, obtain initial and subsequent parameter measurements, calculate differences, and store a stability indication flag when the difference is below a threshold, allowing for instant measurement once stability is confirmed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional thermometer device is applied to patient tissues or skin, then temperature measurement can be performed, but the measurement time is extended due to heat capacity and thermal equilibrium requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary stability assessment by obtaining multiple temperature readings at different times and calculating parameter differences before final measurement. This preliminary action determines whether the sensing element has reached thermal equilibrium, allowing the system to proceed with accurate measurement only when stability criteria are met, thus resolving the contradiction between measurement accuracy and time consumption
2Measurement precision
If the thermometer device is applied to patient tissues or skin, then temperature measurement is enabled, but the temperature of the tissues or skin in the immediate region is drawn down
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the temperature drawdown effect itself as a diagnostic tool by monitoring temperature changes over time and calculating parameter differences. The sensing element's thermal interaction with tissues is converted into useful information about thermal equilibrium status, allowing the system to determine when accurate measurement is possible without causing excessive temperature drawdown
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 quick and accurate physiological parameter monitoring by predicting stabilized temperatures, reducing measurement time and ensuring reliable readings without prolonged stabilization periods.
Implementation Method 1
The measurement time delay can be caused by the heat capacity of a sensing element of the thermometer device and the fact that applying the thermometer device to the patient tissues or skin draws down the temperature of the tissues or skin
Data Source
AI summary
A physiological parameter measuring system includes a parameter sensing device attachable to a body of the subject. The sensing device detects at least one physiological parameter when activated, and a reading device monitors a temperature variation over time and determines whether the parameter has been so stabilized as to be reliably detected. A stability indication flag can be stored in the system so that subsequent monitoring of the parameter is instantly performed.