Wearable Head Temperature Sensor with Ambient Light Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional body temperature measurement devices struggle to accurately measure body temperature in a contactless manner, especially when the user is in motion, and contact-based methods cause discomfort and skin issues.
Innovation Solution
A wearable device with a base worn on the head, featuring a first sensor to measure surface temperature and a second sensor to measure ambient light intensity, connected to an estimation circuit that corrects the temperature signal to estimate body temperature, presented on a display or audio output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional infrared thermography is used to measure body temperature contactlessly, then the body temperature can be measured without contact, but the measurement accuracy deteriorates when the user is in motion or at variable positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional infrared thermography (optical system) with a contact-type temperature sensor that directly touches the skin. This substitution eliminates the problems of variable measurement accuracy associated with distance and position in infrared systems, while still maintaining contactless operation at the system level since the sensor is integrated into wearable equipment rather than requiring separate contact procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a temperature sensor as an intermediary element that is integrated into wearable equipment (gloves, socks, clothing). This intermediary allows the system to obtain accurate temperature readings through direct skin contact while maintaining the overall contactless measurement approach, as the sensor is part of the wearable item rather than requiring separate contact procedures
2Reliability
If contact-type temperature sensors are used to monitor body temperature, then continuous monitoring is possible, but skin discomfort and rashes occur due to prolonged contact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters of the temperature sensor and its surrounding structure to improve breathability and reduce skin irritation. By selecting materials with appropriate thermal and respiratory properties, the system maintains continuous monitoring capability while minimizing harmful effects on the skin
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different material properties to different parts of the wearable equipment. The region containing the temperature sensor is designed with enhanced breathability and comfort properties compared to other areas, allowing continuous contact without causing skin discomfort or rashes
3Adaptability or versatility
If the temperature sensor is integrated into wearable equipment, then the device can be worn during exercise and daily activities, but the breathability at the sensor contact portion decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different material properties to different parts of the wearable equipment. The region containing the temperature sensor is designed with enhanced breathability and comfort properties compared to other areas, allowing continuous contact without causing skin discomfort or rashes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameters of the temperature sensor and its surrounding structure to improve breathability and reduce skin irritation. By selecting materials with appropriate thermal and respiratory properties, the system maintains continuous monitoring capability while minimizing harmful effects on the skin
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 contactless measurement and presentation of body temperature, reducing discomfort and skin issues while providing accurate temperature readings, even when the user is in motion.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor that is provided to the base to be at a distance from a surface of the head of the measurement subject and measures a first signal relating to a temperature of the surface of the head of the measurement subject
Implementation Method 2
a second sensor that is provided to the base and measures a second signal indicating an intensity of ambient light at a position of the surface of the head where the first signal is measured
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable device includes: a base to be worn on a head of a user; a first sensor that is provided to the base to be at a distance from a surface of the user's head and measures a first signal relating to a temperature of the surface of the user's head; an estimation circuit that estimates a body temperature of the user based on the first signal; and a display that presents the body temperature of the user estimated by the estimation circuit.