Protective cap for infrared radiation thermometer

[0001] This invention relates to a protective cap for an infrared radiation thermometer according to the prior-art portion of patent claim 1.

[0002] Infrared radiation thermometers are used for measuring body temperature. Typically, such a radiation thermometer includes a housing with a window admitting radiation, an internal optic system and an infrared sensor that is associated with an evaluation unit. The window admitting radiation serves to close off the interior of the housing of the radiation thermometer, thereby protecting the optic system and the sensor from contamination and destruction.

[0003] As an additional protection, protective caps of the type initially referred to are seated onto the end of the thermometer; such protective caps are described, for example, in EP-B1-0 201 790, U.S. Pat. No. 5,179,936 or U.S. Pat. No. 5,293,862. These protective caps not only serve the function of protecting the infrared transmitting window, but also are intended to prevent the transmission of diseases to the user, which is accomplished in that a new protective cap is installed prior to each temperature being taken or prior to each measurement—and this also in cases where different persons are involved. The disposable speculum as referred to in EP-B1-0 201 790, U.S. Pat. No. 5,179,936 or U.S. Pat. No. 5,293,862 is fitted over the ear canal probe of a tympanic thermometer that is sensitive to infrared radiation, this disposable speculum having an infrared transmitting membrane made of polypropylene or polyethylene. The portion carrying the membrane is an injection-molded part.

[0004] To determine a person's body temperature, the forward end of the temperature measurement probe is inserted into the ear. The infrared radiation emitted by the tympanic membrane and by the ear canal enters the thermometer through the window and is incident, via the optic system or an optical waveguide and an interference filter, on the infrared sensor. The increase in temperature produced in the sensor results in an electrical output voltage from which the radiation temperature can be determined by means of an evaluation unit.

[0005] In such devices it has however shown that during measurement a temperature gradient occurs within the thermometer's optic system due to contact of the ear with the thermometer's generally cooler optic system, from which gradient a measurement error results usually. Moreover, the ear canal is subject to cooling by the thermometer. Because the thermometer detects also the infrared radiation of the ear canal or some other body cavity receiving the radiation thermometer, a further source of error results.

[0006] Proceeding from the state of the art referred to in the foregoing and the attendant problems of potential measurement errors, it is an object of the present invention to provide a protective cap protecting the user of such an infrared thermometer against the transmission of diseases, in addition to preventing the thermometer's optic system from contamination. It is a still further object to avoid or at least substantially reduce the measurement errors of the type described in the foregoing that occur with conventional clinical thermometers equipped with protective cap.

[0007] In a protective cap of the type initially described, the foregoing object is attained according to a first invention by the characterizing features of claim 1. Additional structures provide for insulation of precisely that portion of the base body that is in the immediate vicinity of the window and hence in intimate contact with the wall of the body cavity as, for example, the ear canal, in such fashion that in this particular portion the transfer of heat to the infrared optic system is reduced or maintained at such a low level as to be negligible as regards its effect on the temperature measurement. Because the thermal insulation of the protective cap reduces the passage of heat outside the window, the cooling of, for instance, the ear canal is also diminished at the same time. This has the further effect that by reason of the diminished cooling effect on the ear the user has the impression that the thermometer with this protective cap is warmer and hence substantially less discomforting.

[0008] Further, this thermally insulative means may be of a soft configuration, being more pleasant in the ear than a firm, non-pliant material or a protective cap sheathed with such a material. A further particular advantage of such a protective cap is to use it in conjunction with a clinical thermometer having a small probe tip. A clinical thermometer with a small probe tip is suitable for taking both an adult's and a child's temperature if the protective cap of thermally insulating material is made available in at least two sizes. However, such a protective cap may also be fabricated from a particularly soft, thermally insulating and hence elastic material which conforms itself to both an adult's and a child's ear canal, in spite of the size difference. According to the present invention, protective caps of this type are typically utilized as disposable protective caps.

[0009] To enable ease and nevertheless accuracy of positioning of the protective cap in the ear canal, but also to avoid different thermal effects due to different positions, at least the base body's outer surface that comes into contact with the ear canal or also the base body's entire outer surface outside the window area should be provided with the thermally insulative means. Such a configuration of the surface of the protective cap ensures at all times an adequate thermal insulation against the temperature measurement probe in the different positions of the clinical thermometer.

[0010] A further possibility for increasing the thermal insulation of the temperature measurement probe of the radiation thermometer includes providing the entire base body outside the window with thermally insulative means, that is, not only its outside but also its inside. With such an approach it is possible to prevent the thickness of the outer layer on the base body of thermally insulative means from becoming excessively thick, in addition to enabling the thermally insulative means on the inside to be dimensioned and set to an elasticity in such fashion as to achieve at the same time a clamping and yet detachable mounting of the protective cap on the end of the radiation thermometer.

[0011] The base body may at the same time serve as a stable support for the thermally insulating material which is affixed at least on the outside. A soft, porous foamed plastic material is preferably used as the thermally insulative means of the additional structure (claim 2).

[0012] Another preferred possibility resides in that the additional structure according to claim 3 is a body that is formed of one or several air chambers.

[0013] The features of claim 4 enhance the thermal insulation effect still further. Preferably, in the protective cap structure comprising one or several air chambers, a flexible outer film is applied to the outside (claim 5). Such an outer film forms at the same time a smooth outer surface offering little possibility for contaminants to collect and deposit during storage and stockkeeping of the protective caps.

[0014] As flexible outer film materials bounding, for instance, the air chamber or the air chambers of a thermally insulative means, polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl or polyethylene (PE) are proposed (claim 6). For one thing, these are low-cost materials, for another thing, they are easy to process in order to manufacture the thermally insulating bodies, and moreover they are kind to the skin which is an essential aspect for the range of applications of clinical thermometers.

[0015] Where the additional structures of the thermally insulative means comprise air chambers, it may be convenient to provide several air chambers that are subdivided by fin members extending radially to the axis of the base body (claim 7). While on the one hand this provides for sufficient flexibility of the thermally insulative means conveying a pleasurable feeling to the user, sufficient stability is imparted to the thermally insulative means in any direction on the other hand in order to make sure that the air chambers maintain dimensions sufficient for thermal insulation also in compressed condition. Moreover, the fin members may be formed of foamed plastic material (claim 8) in order to maintain the thermally insulating properties and prevent the formation of heat transfer bridges. Where applicable, the fin members may have apertures to connect adjacent air chambers in a fluid relationship to each other and hence increase the flexibility using a certain damping effect.

[0016] Preferably, the window of the radiation thermometer is formed by a window film transparent to infrared radiation or the actual window of the radiation thermometer is covered with such a film (claim 9); in one embodiment, this window film may blend smoothly with a flexible outer film of the thermally insulative means covering the base body. To stabilize the protective cap, a holding device according to claim 10 may be utilized, for example, in the form of an annular body (claim 11) which is attachable, for example, to the rim of the base body (claim 12) and keeps the film smooth.

[0017] According to the features of claim 13 ease of manufacture of the protective cap results because it is not necessary to cover the window area during application of the additional structures, but rather, it is equally equipped with thermally insulating material. It is only subsequently that the window is formed by hot pressing, hot stamping or cold stamping. In this process, the air chambers and the foamed plastic material are pressed in such fashion that nearly clear transparent windows are produced.

[0018] As preferred material for the base body and the window, polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) is utilized (claim 14). As preferred material for the additional structures serving as thermally insulative means in the form a thermally insulating foamed plastic, polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl or polyurethane (PU) is utilized, for example (claim 15).

[0019] According to a second invention, the object of the present invention is attained by the features of claim 17. In this solution, the protective cap, rather than having a base body, is fabricated only from a thermally insulating material such as foamed plastic or from a plastic material having air chambers. The window's requisite thickness and transparency to infrared radiation are then obtained by hot stamping or cold stamping (claim 18).

[0020] Further details and features of the present invention will become apparent from the subsequent description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings,

[0021]
FIG. 1 is a section taken along the axis of an infrared optic system of a radiation thermometer having a protective cap of the present invention installed thereon, with the thermally insulative means of the protective cap being formed of foamed plastic;

[0022]
FIG. 2 is another sectional view of a protective cap in which the thermally insulative means of foamed plastic is provided only in the forward portion of the protective cap;

[0023]
FIG. 3 is a sectional view of a protective cap in which the thermally insulative means is formed by air chambers;

[0024]
FIG. 4 is a section of the protective cap taken along the line I-I of FIG. 2; and

[0025] FIGS. 5 to 7 are various sections taken along the line II-II of FIG. 3 perpendicularly to the axis of the protective cap, illustrating various inner structures of the protective cap or the thermally insulative means.

[0026] As illustrated in FIG. 1, a protective cap 2 is installed on the forward end of a temperature measurement probe 30 of an infrared radiation thermometer 1 suitable for use as a clinical thermometer 1 in order to protect the probe 30 against contamination and, in addition, to provide for thermal insulation when the probe is inserted into a body cavity 31. In FIG. 1, the body cavity 31 is an ear canal of a person's ear 32 which is, however, only shown schematically.

[0027] To take a person's body temperature, the temperature measurement probe 30 is introduced into the ear canal 31 of a user's ear 32. In the absence of a protective cap 2 of a radiation thermometer, the infrared radiation emitted by the tympanic membrane (not shown) and the ear canal 31 passes through a window 3 transparent to infrared radiation in the relevant measurement range at the forward end of the temperature measurement probe 30 and is directed, through an infrared waveguide 5 extending coaxially with the axis 6 of the temperature measurement probe 30 or the protective cap 2 when mounted thereon, to an interference filter 7, entering an infrared sensor 8. The temperature increase produced in the infrared sensor 8 results in an electrical output voltage from which the radiation temperature is derived through an evaluation unit not shown in greater detail, which temperature is indicated to the user as by means of a digital indicating means (not shown) which is accommodated in the housing 9 illustrated only schematically. As becomes apparent from FIG. 1, the waveguide 5 and the infrared sensor 8 with the filter 7 have one end thereof held in a mounting structure 10 which may be manufactured from metal, while their other end is held by a tube 4 of the temperature measurement probe 30, which tube is a push-fit on the housing 9. The tube 4 is preferably fabricated from plastic.

[0028] The tube 4 extends slightly conically towards its free end where the window 3 is integrally formed, having a stepped tapered end portion 11 corresponding at its end to the outside diameter of the infrared waveguide 5. By virtue of this tapered end portion 11, the clinical thermometer is suitable for use on both children who have a relatively narrow ear canal 31 and adults who have a wider ear canal 31.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 1, the installed protective cap 2 includes a thin-walled tubular base body 12 tapering conically towards its free end and made from a plastic material. In this embodiment, a foamed plastic material 13 serving a thermally insulating function is affixed to the outside of the base body 12. In a second embodiment which is, however, not shown here, the base body 12 is dispensed with entirely, the protective cap 2 then being only comprised of foamed plastic material 13 or forming a honeycombed air chamber structure.

[0030] At its upper free frontal end 14, the protective cap 2 is closed off by an infrared window 15 that is formed of a thin film transparent to infrared radiation in the radiation range relevant for temperature measurement. In FIG. 1, the film forms the base body 12 or is affixed to the base body 12 as a separate member, as by weaving. Where the protective cap is made of foamed plastic only, the film of the window 15 is formed out of the foamed plastic by hot stamping or pressing.

[0031] Because of the requirement for such a film 15 to be very thin in order not to affect the measurement result by the material's natural emissions, if any, a problem may present itself in the securing of such a film to the frontal end 14 of the protective cap 2 without wrinkles being formed. To accomplish this, the embodiment shown makes provision for a holding ring 26 which is also shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 2 and 3 and which is clamped upon the leading edge of the base body 12 or is injection-molded with the protective cap 2 in one integral piece. The holding ring 26 may also be made of a different material of higher strength.

[0032] In FIG. 1, the protective cap 2 terminates at its lower end in an annular flange 16 engaging in a clamping or snap-action fashion with the outer wall of the temperature measurement probe 30, thereby providing a stiffening and centering function for the protective cap 2. On the inside of the flange 16 and/or on the outside of the tube 4 respective projections and/or recesses, not shown, may be provided, enabling the protective cap 2 to hook onto the outside of the tube 4 in the area of this flange 16 to thereby ensure a secure seat of the protective cap 2 on the temperature measurement probe 30. The flange 16 serves at the same time the function of improving manipulation of the protective cap 2, enabling the user to grasp the cap by its flange 16 and install it over the forward end of the temperature measurement probe 30; by gripping it by the annular flange 16, the protective cap 2 readily disengages again from the projections or recesses.

[0033] The thermally insulating foamed plastic material 13 of the protective cap 2 of FIG. 1 has its maximum wall thickness approximately mid-way between the frontal end 14 and the annular flange 16. At least in its upper portion which covers the tapered end portion 11 of the tube 4, it is desirable for the base body 12 to exhibit a certain flexibility enabling it to deform towards the axis 6 such as to be almost engageable with the outer wall of this end portion 11 of the tube 4, particularly on insertion into a narrow ear canal such as a child's. When the temperature measurement probe 30 of this thermometer 1 with the protective cap 2 installed is inserted into a wide ear canal, the base body 12 remains approximately in the position shown in FIG. 1, in which case only the elasticity of the soft foamed plastic material 13 and the penetration depth of the temperature measurement probe 30 in the ear canal 31 perform an adaptation to the ear canal.

[0034] However, the possibility also exists to dimension protective caps 2 such that their base body 12 has an outer shape as predetermined by the tube 4. Preferably, such protective caps 2 with such a tapered end can be installed on the thermometer 1 only if the thermometer 1 is used for taking a child's temperature. In this event, there is no need to make allowance for a free space 17 between the outside of the end portion 11 of the tube 4 and the inside of the base body 12.

[0035] The thermally insulative properties of the foamed plastic material 13 prevent the transfer of heat from the ear canal 31 which is at body temperature to the tube 4 which is, as a rule, cooler, since otherwise such heat transfer would entail the risk of an insufficiently accurate temperature reading. In consequence, apart from preventing contamination of the window 3 and the outside of the tube 4, the thermally insulative protective cap 2 enhances the accuracy of temperature measurement with the thermometer 1, hence avoiding measurement errors introduced due to the transfer of heat from the ear 32 to the tube 4. For sanitary reasons, the protective cap 2 should be replaced after each measurement.

[0036]
FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of the protective cap 2 in which the thermally insulative means in the form of the soft, pliant foamed plastic material 13 is only provided in the tapered forward portion, whilst the lower half of the base body 12 which terminates in the annular flange 16 is left uncoated, that is, bare. It may be sufficient to apply the thermally insulating material only to the forward end of the base body 12 because it is substantially the forward end portion of the protective cap 2 that comes to rest against an ear canal 31. Attention should be paid to make sure that the thermally insulative means contain a significant amount of air. For this purpose, a foamed plastic material 13 with wide pores may be utilized, preferably a foamed plastic 13 with closed pores, so that major contaminants are prevented from settling in the foamed plastic material.

[0037] Another possibility of providing on the outside of the base body 12 a thermally insulative means containing a significant amount of air is illustrated in FIG. 3. In this embodiment of the protective cap 2 which has essentially the same cross-sectional shape as the protective cap 2 of FIG. 1, an air chamber 18 bounded from outside by a further film or wall 33 is provided on the outside of the base body 12. The elasticity of such a protective cap 2 is adjustable by the pressure applied for filling the chamber 18 with air on the one hand, and by the elasticity of the wall 33 and the base body 12 themselves on the other hand.

[0038] The protective cap 2 may have thermally insulative means both in the form of foamed plastic material and in the form of air chambers. Adjoining the outside contour of the foamed plastic body 13 in downward direction is the outer wall 19 of a film combining with the base body 12 to form a lower air chamber 20, so that the thermally insulative means in the upper portion is the foamed plastic material 13, whilst in the lower portion it is formed by one or several (shown in broken lines) air chambers 20.

[0039] FIGS. 5 to 7 illustrate schematically various sections through the protective caps 2, showing various possibilities for the internal structure in the form of both foamed plastic materials and air chambers, or as combinations of both approaches to function as thermally insulative means. As FIG. 4 shows, it should be understood that the thermally insulative means may be designed in the form of an enclosed foamed plastic body covering the outside of the base body 12, in accordance with the embodiment of FIG. 1 (continuous) and FIG. 2 (in the upper portion only), or as a circumferential air chamber 18 in accordance with the embodiment of FIG. 3.

[0040] However, the possibility also exists to cover the base body 12 with foamed plastic fins 22 (FIG. 5) spaced uniformly apart on the base body's circumference and being compressible as the thermometer 1 is introduced in the ear canal 31. The free spaces 34 between the fins 22, whereof four are provided in the embodiment of FIG. 5, then combine with the ear canal 31 (FIG. 1) to form individual air chambers 34. The fins 22 may also be fabricated from a foamed plastic material selected in its strength such as to provide for adequate stiffening of the air chambers 34, thereby preventing the outer wall 24 which bounds the air chambers 34 from resting against the base body 12, while yet being soft and consequently elastic enough to convey a pleasant feeling to the user as the thermometer is inserted in the ear canal.

[0041] A further modification is illustrated in FIG. 6. In this modification, the outer wall 24 is connected to the base body 12 by thin, membrane-type fins 25 separating the air chambers 18 from each other. In FIG. 6, a total of eight fins 25 are provided, resulting in a total of eight separate air chambers 18 distributed on the outer circumference of the base body 12. To additionally enhance user comfort, the fins 25 may include apertures not shown, so that adjacent air chambers 18 are in fluid communication with each other to enable a pressure balance to be accomplished between adjacent air chambers 18 and hence improve the mating engagement with the ear canal 31.

[0042]
FIG. 7 shows a further embodiment in which the protective cap 2 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 has the added provision of a further thermally insulative means 23 equally made of foamed plastic, for example, which is affixed to the inside of the base body 12.

[0043] In summary, the protective caps as illustrated in the Figures afford the following advantages:

[0044] The protective cap 2 diminishes the adverse effect of heat input into a clinical thermometer, thereby improving the measurement precision of the thermometer 1 or enabling the use of a smaller (or simpler and less costly) thermometer optics with reduced heat insulation and reduced thermal mass.

[0045] The protective cap 2 reduces cooling of the ear canal 31 during measurement, thereby enhancing the accuracy of measurement of the thermometer 1 or omitting the need for corresponding compensations.

[0046] Due to the reduced cooling of the ear and the soft, elastic protective cap 2, the measurement is appreciably less discomforting for the user, particularly for children.

[0047] The soft outside of the protective cap 2 reduces the risk of personal injury.

[0048] Used in combination with a clinical thermometer, the protective cap 2 described makes it possible to determine the temperature of children and adults alike speedily without causing pain. Owing to its deformability, the protective cap 2 is capable of conforming itself to different diameters of ear canals 31, enabling an optimum penetration depth and centering of the thermometer 1 in the ear canal 31.

[0049] Moreover, the use of protective caps 2 having different outside diameters, for example for children and adults, on the same thermometer 1 is possible.

[0050] The integrable holding ring 26 enables the window 3 or the window film 15 of the protective cap 2 to be tensed in a uniform, defined fashion resulting in a uniform transmission. Any undefined tension of the window 3 during mounting of the protective cap 2 is thus avoided.

Appendix A

Proposed Count

[0051] A disposable probe cover for use with a radiant energy sensing probe, said disposable probe cover, in use, being separable from said radiant energy sensing probe and disposed of after use, said disposable probe cover comprising foam molded to provide a compressible, deformable hollow body having a passage defined therethrough, the passage being dimensioned for, in use, removably accepting at least a portion of said radiant energy sensing probe so that the deformable hollow body stretches over and thereby frictionally engages said probe, the passage terminating in an opening through which said probe is removably inserted, said molded foam body, in use, being separated from said radiant energy sensing probe and disposed of after said probe is used to allow said probe to be inserted into a further probe cover.

Appendix B

Element-by-Element Recitation of the Newly Added Claims of Beerwerth And Indication of the Passages in the Originally Filed Application Where the Claims Find Support

[0052]

1

Originally-Filed

Claim 1 of Beerwerth Application
Application Discloses:

A disposable probe cover for use
The invention relates to a

with a radiant energy sensing
protective cap for an infrared

probe,
radiation thermometer

(P. 1, lines 2-4).

According to the present

invention, protective

caps of this type are

utilized as disposable

protective caps.

(P. 3, lines 22-23).

said disposable probe cover,
On the inside, the thermally

in use, being separable from
insulative means is

said radiant energy sensing
dimensioned and set to an

probe and disposed of after use,
elasticity so as to achieve

at the same time a clamping

and yet detachable mounting

of the protective cap on

the end of the radiation

thermometer. (P. 4,

lines 5-12). For sanitary

reasons, the protective

cap 2 should be replaced

after each measurement.

(P. 9, lines 12-16,

P. 10, lines 28-30).

said disposable probe cover
The installed protective

comprising foam molded to
cap 2 includes a thin-

provide a compressible,
walled tubular base body

deformable hollow body having
12 tapering conically

a passage defined therethrough,
towards its free end. A

foamed plastic material 13

13 is affixed to the outside

of the base body 12. In a

second embodiment, the base

body is not used, and the

protective cap is then comprised

of foamed plastic material 13.

At its upper free frontal end

14, the protective cap 2 is

closed off by an infrared window

15 (P. 8, lines 15-25).

the passage being dimensioned for,
The foamed plastic material 13

in use, removably accepting at
and/or base body 12 may be

least a portion of said radiant
dimensioned and set to an

radiant energy sensing probe so
elasticity in such a fashion as

that the deformable hollow body
to achieve at the same time a

stretches over and thereby
clamping and yet detachable

frictionally engages said probe,
mounting of the protective cap

on the end of the radiation

thermometer. (P. 4, lines 8-12).

the passage terminating in an
The protective cap 2 terminates at

opening through which said probe
its lower end in an annular flange

is removably inserted, said
16 engaging in a clamping or snap-

molded foam body, in use, being
action fashion with the outer wall

separated from said radiant
of the temperature measurement

energy sensing probe and
probe 30, thereby providing a

disposed of after said probe is
stiffening and centering function

used to allow said probe to be
for the protective cap 2. For

inserted into a further probe
sanitary reasons, the protective

cover.
cap 2 should be replaced after

each measurement. (P. 9, lines

12-16, P. 10, lines 28-30).

[0053]

2

Originally-Filed

Claim 2 of Beerwerth Application
Application Discloses:

A disposable probe cover as in
See claim 1

claim 1

further including a further opening
At its upper free frontal end 14, the

defined by said foam body through
protective cap 2 is closed off by an

which radiation can pass to reach
infrared window 15 that is formed of

the probe when the probe is
a thin film transparent to infrared

inserted within said foam body,
radiation in the radiation range

relevant for temperature measurement

(P. 8, lines 24-27).

and a thin plastic film membrane
In FIG. 1, the thin film forms the

laminated onto at least a portion
base body 12 or is affixed to the

of the body and prestretched
base body 12 as a separate member.

across the further opening.
Where the protective cap is made of

foamed plastic only, the film of the

window 15 is formed out of the

foamed plastic by hot stamping or

pressing (P. 8, lines 27-31).

The window is formed by a window

film transparent to infrared

radiation or the actual window

is covered with such film. To

stabilize the structure, a holding

device may be used which is

attachable to the rim of the base

body and keeps the film smooth

(P. 5, lines 20-29). . . . thin

in order not to affect the

measurement result by the

material's natural emissions,

if any, a problem may present

itself in the securing of such

film 14 to the frontal end 14 of

the protective cap 2 without

wrinkles being formed. To

accomplish this, the embodiment

shown makes provision for a holding

ring 26 which is also shown in the

embodiments of FIGS. 2 and 3 and

which is clamped upon the leading

leading edge of the base body 12

or is injection-molded with the

protective cap in one integral piece.

The holding ring 26 may also be

made of a different material of

higher strength (P. 9, lines

2-11). The integrable holding

ring 26 enables the window 3 or

window film 15 of the protective

cap 2 to be tensed in a uniform,

defined fashion resulting in a

uniform transmission. Any

undefined tension of the

window 3 during mounting of the

protective cap 2 is thus avoided.

(P. 14, lines 6-10).

[0054]

3

Originally-Filed

Claim 3 of Beerwerth Application
Application Discloses:

A disposable probe cover as
See claim 1

claim 1

wherein said probe has an outer
The elasticity of the soft foamed

profile that approximates the
plastic material and the penetration

external acoustic meatus of the
depth of the temperature measure-

the ear of a human subject,
ment probe in the ear canal 31

performs an adaptation to the

ear canal

(P. 10, lines 7-10). The base

body's outer surface comes into

into contact with the ear canal

(P. 3, lines 26-27).

and said probe cover conforms to
The thermally insulative means is

said probe outer profile so as to
dimensioned on the inside and set to

provide increased comfort when
an elasticity in such fashion as to

said probe and probe cover are
achieve a clamping and yet

inserted into said subject's ear.
detachable mounting of the protective

cap on the end of the radiation

thermometer (P. 4, lines 8-12).

The protective cap may be fabricated

from a particularly soft, thermally

insulating, and hence elastic

material which conforms itself

to both a child's and an adult's

ear canal, in spite of the size

difference (P. 3, lines 18-23).

The thermally insulative means may

be of a soft configuration, being

more pleasant in the ear than a

firm, noncompliant material or a

protactive cap sheathed with such a

material (P. 3, lines 10-13).

[0055]

4

Originally-Filed

Claim 4 of Beerwerth Application
Application Discloses:

A disposable probe cover as in
See claim 1

claim 1

wherein said foam, in use,
Structures provide for insulation of

provides thermal isolation
the portion of the base body in the

for said probe.
vicinity of the window in such

fashion that the transfer of heat

to the infrared optic system is

reduced or maintained at such a

low level as to be negligible as

regards its effect on temperature

measurement. Because the thermal

insulation of the protective cap

reduces the passage of heat,

the cooling of the ear canal

is also diminished, providing

greater user comfort. This thermally

insulative means may be of a soft

configuration (P. 2, line 27- P. 3,

line 11). A soft, porous foamed

plastic material is preferably used

as the thermally insulative means

(P. 4, lines 15-16).

[0056]

5

Originally-Filed

Claim 5 of Beerwerth Application
Application Discloses:

A disposable foam-based probe
The invention relates to a protective

cover for use with a radiant
cap for an infrared radiation

energy sensing probe having an
thermometer (P. 1, lines 2-4).

outer surface,
A soft, porous foamed plastic material

is preferably used as the thermally

insulative means (P. 4, lines 15-17).

According to the present invention,

protective caps of this type are

utilized as disposable protective

caps. (P. 3, lines 22-23).

said disposable foam-based probe
On the inside, the thermally

cover in use, being separable
insulative means is dimensioned and

from said radiant energy sensing
set to an elasticity so as to

probe and disposed of after use,
achieve at the same time a

clamping and yet detachable

mounting of the protective cap on

the end of the radiation

thermometer. (P. 4, lines 5-12).

For sanitary reasons, the

protective cap 2 should be

replaced after each measurement

(P. 9, lines 12--16, P. 10,

lines 28-30).

said disposable foam-based probe
The installed protective cap 2

cover comprising a hollow body
includes a thin-walled tubular

comprising a compressible foam
base body 12 tapering conically

material and having a cavity
towards its free end. A foamed

therein terminating in an
plastic material 13 is affixed

opening,
to the outside of the base body

12. In a second embodiment, the

the base body is not used, and

the protective cap is then

comprised of foamed plastic

material 13. At its upper free

frontal end 14, the protective

cap 2 is closed off by an

infrared window 15

(P. 8, lines 15-25).

the probe cover, in use,
The thermally insulative means

accepting said radiant energy
is dimensioned on the inside

sensing probe that is oversized
and set to an elasticity in

relative to said cavity, said
such fashion as to achieve a

foam-based probe cover at least
clamping and yet detachable

partially deforming over said
mounting of the protective

oversized probe when said probe
cap on the end of the

is inserted through said
radiation thermometer

opening so as to frictionally
(P. 4, lines 8-12).

engage said probe outer surface

and thereby removably retain

said probe cover on said probe,

said probe cover into which said
The protective cap may be

probe has been inserted being
fabricated from a

shaped for insertion into
particularly soft, thermally

the external acoustical meatus
insulating, and hence elastic

of ear of the human body, said
material which conforms itself

foam providing a cushioning
to both a child's and an

effect to increase the
adult's ear canal in spite of

subject's comfort,
size difference (P. 3, lines

18-23). The thermally insulative

means may be of a soft configuration,

being more pleasant in the ear than

a firm, noncompliant material or a

protactive cap sheathed with such

a material (P. 3, lines 10-13).

said probe cover into which said
The protective cap may be fabricated

probe has been inserted being
from a particularly soft, thermally

shaped for insertion into the
insulating, and hence elastic material

external acoustical meatus of ear
which conforms itself to both a

of the human body, said foam
child's and an adult's ear canal,

providing a cushioning effect to
in spite of the size difference

increase the subject's comfort,
(P. 3, lines 18-23). The

thermally insulative means may be

of a soft configuration, being more

pleasant in the ear than a firm,

noncompliant material or a

protactive cap sheathed

with such a material (P. 3, lines

10-13).

said probe cover, in use, being
According to the present invention,

stripped from said sensing probe
protective caps of this type are

without damaging said sensing
utilized as disposable protective

probe after said probe and said
caps. (P. 3, lines 22-23). For

probe cover are removed from
sanitary reasons, the protective

said external acoustical meatus.
the protective cap 2 should be

replaced after each measurement.

(P. 9, lines 12-16, P. 10,

lines 28-30).

[0057]

6

Originally-Filed

Claim 6 of Beerwerth Application
Application Discloses:

A disposable probe cover as in
See claim 5

claim 5

wherein said probe has an outer
The elasticity of the soft foamed

profile that approximates the
plastic material and the penetration

external acoustic meatus of
depth of the temperature

the ear of a human subject,
measurement probe in the ear

canal 31 performs an adaptation

to the ear canal

(P. 10, lines 7-10). The base

body's outer surface comes into

contact with the ear canal

(P. 3, lines 26-27).

and said probe cover conforms to
The thermally insulative means is

said probe outer profile so as
dimensioned on the inside and set

to provide increased comfort
to an elasticity in such fashion

when said probe and probe cover
as to achieve a clamping and yet

are inserted into said subject's
detachable mounting of the

ear.
protective cap on the end of the

radiation thermometer (P. 4,

lines 8-12). The protective

cap may be fabricated from a

particularly soft, thermally

insulating, and hence elastic

material which conforms itself

to both a child's and an

adult's ear canal, in spite

of the size difference (P. 3,

lines 18-23). The thermally

insulative means may be of a

soft configuration, being more

pleasant in the ear than a

firm, noncompliant material or a

protactive cap sheathed with such

a material (P. 3, lines 10-13).

[0058]

7

Originally-Filed

Claim 7 of Beerwerth Application
Application Discloses:

A disposable probe cover as in
See claim 5

claim 5

wherein said foam, in use,
Structures provide for insulation of

provides thermal isolation
the portion of the base body in the

for said probe.
in the vicinity of the window in

such fashion that the transfer of

heat to the infrared optic system

is reduced or maintained at such a

low level as to be negligible as

regards its effect on temperature

measurement. Because the thermal

insulation of the protective cap

reduces the passage of heat, the

cooling of the ear canal is also

diminished, providing greater

user comfort. This thermally

insulative means may be of a

soft configuration (P. 2, line

27- P. 3, line 11). A soft,

porous foamed plastic material is

preferably used as the thermally

insulative means (P. 4,

lines 15-16).

[0059]

8

Originally-Filed

Claim 8 of Beerwerth Application
Application Discloses:

A disposable probe cover for use
The invention relates to a protective

with a radiant energy sensing
cap for an infrared radiation

probe,
(P. 1, lines 2-4). According to

the present invention, protective

caps of this type are utilized as

disposable protective caps. (P. 3,

lines 22-23).

said disposable probe cover,
On the inside, the thermally

in use, being separable from said
insulative means is dimensioned

radiant energy sensing probe and
and set to an elasticity so as to

disposed of after use,
achieve at the same time a clamping

and yet detachable mounting of the

protective cap on the end of the

radiation thermometer. (P. 4,

lines 5-12). For sanitary reasons,

the protective cap 2 should be

replaced after each measurement.

(P. 9, lines 12-16, P. 10,

lines 28-30).

said disposable probe cover
The structure preferably uses

comprising: a foam sheet
uses a soft, porous foamed

molded to provide a compressible,
plastic material as the

deformable hollow body
insulating means. Another

possibility is that this

structure is a body formed of one

or more air chambers (P. 4, lines

15-20).

In the body comprising one or several

air chambers, such chambers may be

subdivided by fin members made of

foamed plastic material (P. 5, lines

5-15). For this purpose, a

foamed plastic material with wide

pores may be utilized, preferably a

foamed plastic 13 with closed pores

(P. 11, lines 9-12).

having a passage defined
The installed protective cap 2

therethrough, the passage being
includes a thin-walled tubular

dimensioned for, in use,
base body 12 tapering conically

accepting at least a portion of
towards its free end. A foamed

a radiant energy sensing probe
plastic material 13 is affixed to

so that the deformable hollow
the outside of the base body 12.

body stretches over and thereby
In a second embodiment, the base

engages said probe,
body is not used, and the protective

cap is then comprised of foamed

plastic material 13. At its upper

free frontal end 14, the protective

cap 2 is closed off by an infrared

window 15 (P. 8, lines 15-25).

The thermally insulative means is

dimensioned on the inside and set

to an elasticity in such fashion

as to achieve a clamping and yet

detachable mounting of the protective

cap on the end of the radiation

thermometer (P. 4, lines 8-12).

the passage terminating in an
The protective cap 2 terminates at its

opening through which said probe
lower end in an annular flange 16

is, in use, removably inserted,
engaging in a clamping or snap-

action fashion with the outer wall

of the temperature measurement

probe 30, thereby providing a

stiffening and centering function

for the protective cap 2.

(P. 9, lines 12-16). On

the inside, the thermally insulative

means is dimensioned and set to an

elasticity so as to achieve at the

same time a clamping and yet

detachable mounting of the protective

cap on the end of the radiation

thermometer. (P. 4, lines 5-12).

said molded foam sheet, in use,
On the inside, the thermally

being stripped from said radiant
insulative means is dimensioned and

energy sensing probe without
set to an elasticity so as to

damaging said sensing probe,
achieve at the same time a clamping

after said probe is used to allow
and yet detachable mounting of the

said probe to be inserted into a
protective cap on the end of the

further probe cover before re-use.
radiation thermometer. (P. 4, lines

5-12). For sanitary reasons, the

protective cap 2 should be replaced

after each measurement. (P. 9,

lines 12-16, P. 10, lines 28-30).

[0060]

9

Originally-Filed

Claim 9 of Beerwerth Application
Application Discloses:

A disposable probe cover as in
See claim 8

claim 8

wherein said probe cover defines a
At its upper free frontal end 14, the

further opening,
protective cap 2 is closed off by an

infrared window 15 that is formed of

a thin film transparent to infrared

radiation in the radiation range

relevant for temperature

measurement (P. 8, lines

24-27).

and further includes a thin plastic
In FIG. 1, the thin film forms the

film membrane laminated onto at
base body 12 or is affixed to the

least a portion of the body and
base body 12 as a separate member.

pre-stretched across the further
Where the protective cap is made

opening.
of foamed plastic only, the film

of the window 15 is formed out of

the foamed plastic by hot stamping

or pressing (P. 8, lines 27-31).

The window is formed by a window

film transparent to infrared

radiation or the actual window is

covered with such film.

To stabilize the structure, a

holding device may be used which

is attachable to the rim of the

base body and keeps the film

smooth (P. 5, lines 20--29).

. . . thin in order not to

affect the measurement result

by the material's natural

emissions, if any, a problem may

present itself in the securing

of such film 14 to the frontal

end 14 of the protective cap 2

without wrinkles being formed. To

accomplish this, the embodiment

shown makes provision for a

holding ring 26 which is also

shown in the embodiments of

FIGS. 2 and 3 and which is clamped

upon the leading edge of the base

body 12 or is injection-molded

with the protective cap in one

integral piece. The holding ring

26 may also be made of a different

material of higher strength (P. 9,

lines 2-11). The integrable

holding ring 26 enables the window

3 or window film 15 of the

protective cap 2 to be tensed in a

uniform, defined fashion resulting

in a uniform transmission. Any

undefined tension of the window 3

during mounting of the protective

cap 2 is thus avoided. (P. 14,

lines 6-10).

[0061]

10

Originally-Filed

Claim 10 of Beerwerth Application
Application Discloses:

A disposable probe cover as in
See claim 8

claim 8

wherein said probe has an outer
The base body's outer surface comes

profile that approximates the
into contact with the ear canal

external acoustic meatus of
(P. 3, lines 26-27). The elasticity

the ear of a human subject,
of the soft foamed plastic material

and the penetration depth of the

temperature measurement probe in

the ear canal 31 performs an

adaptation to the ear canal

(P. 10, lines 7-10).

and said probe cover conforms to
The thermally insulative means is

said probe outer profile so as to
dimensioned on the inside and set to

provide increased comfort when
an elasticity in such fashion as to

said probe and probe cover are
achieve a clamping and yet

inserted into said subject's ear.
detachable mounting of the protective

cap on the end of the radiation

thermometer (P. 4, lines 8-12).

The protective cap may be fabricated

from a particularly soft, thermally

insulating, and hence elastic material

which conforms itself to both a

child's and an adult's ear canal, in

spite of the size difference (P. 3,

lines 18-23). The thermally

insulative means may be of a soft

configuration ,being more pleasant

in the ear than a firm, noncompliant

material or a protactive cap sheathed

with such a material (P. 3, lines

10-13).

[0062]

11

Originally-Filed

Claim 11 of Beerwerth Application
Application Discloses:

A disposable probe cover as in
See claim 8

claim 8

wherein said foam in use, provides
Structures provide for insulation of

thermal isolation for said probe.
the portion of the base body in the

vicinity of the window in such

fashion that the transfer of heat to the

infrared optic system is reduced or

maintained at such a low level as to

be negligible as regards its effect on

temperature measurement. Because

the thermal insulation of the

protective cap reduces the passage of

heat, the cooling of the ear canal is

also diminished, providing greater

user comfort. This thermally

insulative means may be of a soft

configuration (P. 2, line 27-P. 3, line

11). A soft, porous foamed plastic

material is preferably used as the

thermally insulative means (P.4, lines

15-16).

[0063]

12

Originally-Filed

Claim 12 of Beerwerth Application
Application Discloses:

A disposable foam-based probe
The invention relates to a protective

cover for use with a radiant energy
cap for an infrared radiation

sensing probe,
thermometer (P. 1, lines 2-4).

According to the present invention,

protective caps of this type are

utilized as disposable protective caps.

(P. 3, lines 22-23). The installed

protective cap 2 includes a thin-

walled tubular base body 12 tapering

conically towards its free end. A

foamed plastic material 13 is affixed

to the outside of the base body 12. In

a second embodiment, the base body

is not used, and the protective cap is

then comprised of foamed plastic

material 13. At its upper free frontal

end 14, the protective cap 2 is closed

off by an infrared window 15 (P. 8,

lines 15-25).

said disposable probe cover having
The installed protective cap 2

a passageway defined therein,
includes a thin-walled tubular base

body 12 tapering conically towards

its free end. A foamed plastic

material 13 is affixed to the outside

of the base body 12. In a second

embodiment, the base body is not

used, and the protective cap is then

comprised of foamed plastic material

13. At its upper free frontal end 14,

the protective cap 2 is closed off by

an infrared window 15 (P. 8, lines

15-25).

the probe cover, in use, accepting
The protective cap 2 terminates at its

said radiant energy sensing probe
lower end in an annular flange 16 (P.

that is oversized relative to
9, lines 12-13). On the inside, the

the dimension of said passageway
thermally insulative means is

so that said compressible foam at
dimensioned and set to an elasticity

least partially deforms over said
so as to achieve at the same time a

radiant energy sensing probe and
clamping and yet detachable mount-

thereby frictionally engages said
ing of the protective cap on the end

probe so as to removably retain
of the radiation thermometer. (P. 4,

said compressible foam on said
lines 5-12).

probe during use,

said probe cover and inserted probe
The elasticity of the soft foamed

being shaped for insertion into the
plastic material 13 and the penetra-

external acoustical meatus of the
tion depth of the temperature

ear of the human body,
measurement probe 30 in the ear

canal 31 perform an adaptation to the

ear canal (P. 10, lines 7-10).

said probe cover, in use, being
The thermally insulative means is

stripped from said radiant energy
dimensioned and set to an elasticity

sensing probe without damaging
so as to achieve at the same time a

said probe after said probe is used
clamping and yet detachable mount-

to allow said probe to be inserted
ing of the protective cap on the end

into a further probe cover before
of the radiation thermometer. (P. 4,

re-use of said probe.
lines 5-12).

For sanitary reasons, the protective

cap 2 should be replaced after each

measurement. (P. 9, lines 12-16, P.

10, lines 28-30).

[0064]

13

Originally-Filed

Claim 13 of Beerwerth Application
Application Discloses:

A disposable probe cover for use
The invention relates to a protective

with a radiant energy sensing
cap foran infrared radiation

probe,
thermometer (P. 1, lines 2-4).

According to the present invention,

protective caps of this type are

utilized as disposable protective caps.

(P. 3, lines 22-23)

said disposable probe cover in use,
The thermally insulative means is

being separable from said radiant
dimensioned and set to an elasticity

energy sensing probe and disposed
so as to achieve at the same time a

of after use,
clamping and yet detachable mount-

ing of the protective cap on the end

of the radiation thermometer. (P. 4,

lines 5-12).

For sanitary reasons, the protective

cap 2 should be replaced after each

measurement. (P. 9, lines 12-16, P.

10, lines 28-30).

said disposable probe cover
The installed protective cap 2

comprising: foam molded to
includes a thin-walled tubular base

provide a compressible,
body 12 tapering conically towards

deformable hollow body having a
its free end. A foamed plastic

passage defined therethrough, the
material 13 is affixed to the outside

passage being dimensioned for, in
of the base body 12. In a second

uses removably accepting at least
embodiment, the base body is not

a portion of said radiant energy
used, and the protective cap is then

sensing probe,
comprised of foamed plastic material

13.

the passage terminating in an
The protective cap 2 terminates at its

opening through which said probe
lower end in an annular flange 16 (P.

is removably inserted,
9, lines 12-13). On the inside, the

thermally insulative means is

dimensioned and set to an elasticity

so as to achieve at the same time a

clamping and yet detachable mount-

ing of the protective cap on the end

of the radiation thermometer. (P. 4,

lines 5-12).

said molded foam body, in use,
On the inside, the thermally

being separated from said radiant
insulative means is dimensioned and

energy sensing probe and disposed
set to an elasticity so as to achieve

of after said probe is used to
at the same time a clamping and yet

allow said probe to be inserted into
detachable mounting of the protective

into a further probe cover,
cap on the end of the radiation

thermometer. (P. 4, lines 5-12). For

sanitary reasons, the protective cap 2

should be replaced after each

measurement. (P. 9, lines 12-16, P.

10, lines 28-30).

wherein said probe is oversized
On the inside, the thermally

relative to said passage, and said
insulative means is dimensioned and

foam at least partially deforms
set to an elasticity so as to achieve at

when said probe is inserted into
the same time a clamping and yet

said passage so as to removably,
detachable mounting of the protective

frictionally engage said probe.
cap on the end of the radiation

thermometer. (P. 4, lines 5-12).

[0065]

14

Originally-Filed

Claim 14 of Beerwerth Application
Application Discloses:

A disposable probe cover for use
The invention relates to a protective

with a radiant energy sensing
cap for an infrared radiation

probe,
thermometer (P. 1, lines 2-4).

According to the present invention,

protective caps of this type are

utilized as disposable protective caps.

(P. 3, lines 22-23)

said disposable probe cover, in use,
On the inside, the thermally

being separable from said radiant
insulative means is dimensioned and

energy sensing probe and disposed
set to an elasticity so as to achieve at

of after use,
the same time a clamping and yet

detachable mounting of the protective

cap on the end of the radiation

thermometer. (P. 4, lines 5-12). For

sanitary reasons, the protective cap 2

should be replaced after each

measurement. (P. 9, lines 12-16, P.

10, lines 28-30).

said disposable probe cover
The structure preferably uses a soft,

comprising: a foam sheet molded
porous foamed plastic material as the

to provide a compressible, deform-
insulating means. Another possibility

able hollow body having a passage
is that this structure is a body formed

defined therethrough,
of one or more air chambers (P. 4,

lines 15-20).

In the body comprising one or several

air chambers, such chambers may be

subdivided by fin members made of

foamed plastic material (P. 5, lines

5-15). For this purpose, a foamed

plastic material with wide pores may

be utilized, preferably a foamed

plastic 13 with closed pores (P. 11,

lines 9-12).

The installed protective cap 2

includes a thin-walled tubular base

body 12 tapering conically towards

its free end. A foamed plastic

material 13 is affixed to the outside

of the base body 12. In a second

embodiment, the base body is not

used, and the protective cap is then

comprised of foamed plastic material

13.

the passage being dimensioned for,
The protective cap 2 terminates at its

in use, accepting at least a
lower end in an annular flange 16

portion of said radiant energy
engaging in a clamping or snap-

sensing probe,
action fashion with the outer wall of

the temperature measurement probe

30, thereby providing a stiffening and

centering function for the protective

cap 2. (P. 9, lines 12-16). On the

inside, the thermally insulative means

is dimensioned and set to an elasticity

so as to achieve at the same time a

clamping and yet detachable mount-

ing of the protective cap on the end

of the radiation thermometer. (P. 4,

lines 5-12).

the passage terminating in an
The protective cap 2 terminates at its

opening through which said probe
lower end in an annular flange 16

is, in use, removably inserted,
engaging in a clamping or snap-

action fashion with the outer wall of

the temperature measurement probe

30 (P. 9, lines 12-16). The thermally

insulative means is dimensioned on

the inside and set to an elasticity in

such fashion as to achieve a clamping

and yet detachable mounting of the

protective cap on the end of the

radiation thermometer (P. 4, lines

8-12).

said molded foam sheet, in use,
The thermally insulative means is

being stripped from said radiant
dimensioned on the inside and set to

energy sensing probe without
an elasticity in such fashion as to

damaging said sensing probe, after
achieve a clamping and yet detach-

said probe is used to allow said
able mounting of the protective cap

probe to be inserted into a further
on the end of the radiation

probe cover before re-use,
thermometer (P. 4, lines 8-12).

For sanitary reasons, the protective

cap 2 should be replaced after each

measurement. (P. 9, lines 12-16, P.

10, lines 28-30).

wherein said probe is oversized
The thermally insulative means is

relative to said passage,
dimensioned on the inside so as to

achieve a clamping and yet detach-

able mounting of the protective cap

on the end of the radiation

thermometer (P. 4, lines 8-12).

and said foam at least partially
The thermally insulative means is set

deforms when said probe is
to an elasticity in such fashion as to

inserted into said passage so as to
achieve a clamping and yet detach-

removably, frictionally engage said
able mounting of the protective cap

probe.
on the end of the radiation

thermometer (P. 4, lines 8-12).

Appendix C

Comparison of Claims 1-14 of the Cheslock Patent With the Proposed Count

[0066]

15

APPENDIX C

Comparison of Claims 1-14 of the Cheslock Patent With

the Proposed Count

Claim 1 of Cheslock Patent
Proposed Count

A disposable probe cover for use
A disposable probe cover for use with

with a radiant energy sensing
a radiant energy sensing probe,

probe,

said disposable probe cover, in use,
said disposable probe cover, in use,

being separable from said radiant
being separable from said radiant

energy sensing probe and disposed
energy sensing probe and disposed of

of after use,
after use,

said disposable probe cover
said disposable probe cover

comprising foam molded to
comprising foam molded to provide

provide a compressible,
a compressible, deformable hollow

deformable hollow body having a
body having a passage defined

passage defined therethrough,
therethrough,

the passage being dimensioned for,
the passage being dimensioned for, in

in use, removably accepting at
use, removably accepting at least a

least a portion of said radiant
portion of said radiant energy sensing

energy sensing probe so that the
probe so that the deformable hollow

deformable hollow body stretches
body stretches over and thereby

over and thereby frictionally
frictionally engages said probe,

engages said probe,

the passage terminating in an
the passage terminating in an opening

opening through which said probe
through which said probe is

is removably inserted, said molded
removably inserted, said molded

foam body, in use, being separated
foam body, in use, being separated

from said radiant energy sensing
from said radiant energy sensing

probe and disposed of after said
probe and disposed of after said

probe is used to allow said probe to
probe is used to allow said probe to

be inserted into a further probe
be inserted into a further probe cover.

cover.

[0067]

16

Claim 2 of Cheslock Patent
Proposed Count

A disposable probe cover as in
See the Proposed Count.

claim 1

further including a further opening
The additional features provided by

defined by said foam body through
this dependent claim are not

which radiation can pass to reach
patentably distinct from the Proposed

the probe when the probe is
Count.

inserted within said foam body,

and a thin plastic film membrane

laminated onto at least a portion of

the body and pre-stretched across

the further opening.

[0068]

17

Claim 3 of Cheslock Patent
Proposed Count

A disposable probe cover as in
See the Proposed Count.

claim 1

wherein said probe has an outer
The additional features provided by

profile that approximates the
this dependent claim are not

external acoustic meatus of the ear
patentably distinct from the Proposed

of a human subject,
Count.

and said probe cover conforms to

said probe outer profile so as to

provide increased comfort when

said probe and probe cover are

inserted into said subject's ear.

[0069]

18

Claim 4 of Cheslock Patent
Proposed Count

A disposable probe cover as in
See the Proposed Count.

claim 1

wherein said foam, in use, provides
The additional features provided by

thermal isolation for said probe.
this dependent claim are not

patentably distinct from the Proposed

Count.

[0070]

19

Claim 5 of Cheslock Patent
Proposed Count

A disposable foam-based probe
A disposable probe cover for use with

cover for use with a radiant energy
a radiant energy sensing probe,

sensing probe having an outer

surface,

said disposable foam-based probe
said disposable probe cover, in use,

cover, in use, being separable from
being separable from said radiant

said radiant energy sensing probe
energy sensing probe and disposed of

and disposed of after use,
after use,

said disposable foam-based probe
said disposable probe cover

cover comprising a hollow body
comprising foam molded to provide a

comprising a compressible foam
compressible, deformable hollow

material and having a cavity
body having a passage defined

therein terminating in an opening,
therethrough,

the probe cover, in use, accepting
the passage being dimensioned for, in

said radiant energy sensing probe
use, removably accepting at least a

that is oversized relative to said
portion of said radiant energy sensing

cavity,
probe,

said foam-based probe cover at
so that the deformable hollow body

least partially deforming over said
stretches over and thereby frictionally

oversized probe when said probe is
engages said probe, the passage

inserted through said opening so
terminating in an opening through

as to frictionally engage said probe
which said probe is removably

outer surface and thereby
inserted,

removably retain said probe cover

on said probe,

said probe cover into which said
said disposable probe cover

probe has been inserted being
comprising foam molded to provide a

shaped for insertion into the
compressible, deformable hollow

external acoustical meatus of ear of
body having a passage defined

the human body, said foam
therethrough,

providing a cushioning effect to

increase the subject's comfort,

said probe cover, in use, being
said molded foam body, in use, being

stripped from said sensing probe
separated from said radiant energy

without damaging said sensing
sensing probe and disposed of after

probe after said probe and said
said probe is used to allow said probe

probe cover are removed from said
to be inserted into a further probe

external acoustical meatus.
cover.

[0071]

20

Claim 6 of Cheslock Patent
Proposed Count

A disposable probe cover as in
See the Proposed Count.

claim 5

wherein said probe has an outer
The additional features provided by

profile that approximates the
this dependent claim are not

external acoustic meatus of the ear
patentably distinct from the Proposed

of a human subject,
Count.

and said probe cover conforms to

said probe outer profile so as to

provide increased comfort when

said probe and probe cover are

inserted into said subject's ear.

[0072]

21

Claim 7 of Cheslock Patent
Proposed Count

A disposable probe cover as in claim 5
See the Proposed Count.

wherein said foam, in use, provides
The additional features provided

thermal isolation for said probe.
by this dependent claim are not

patentably distinct from the

Proposed Count.

[0073]

22

Claim 8 of Cheslock Patent
Proposed Count

A disposable probe cover for use with a
A disposable probe cover for use with a

radiant energy sensing probe,
radiant energy sensing probe,

said disposable probe cover, in use, being
said disposable probe cover, in use, being

separable from said radiant energy sensing
separable from said radiant energy sensing

probe and disposed of after use,
probe and disposed of after use,

said disposable probe cover comprising:
said disposable probe cover comprising foam

a foam sheet molded to provide a
molded to provide a compressible,

compressible, deformable hollow body
deformable hollow body having a passage

having a passage defined therethrough, the
defined therethrough, the passage being

passage being dimensioned for, in use,
dimensioned for, in use, removably accepting

accepting at least a portion of a radiant energy
at least a portion of said radiant energy

sensing probe so that the deformable hollow
sensing probe so that the deformable hollow

body stretches over and thereby frictionally
body stretches over and thereby frictionally

engages said probe,
engages said probe,

the passage terminating in an opening
the passage terminating in an opening through

through which said probe is, in use,
which said probe is removably inserted,

removably inserted,

said molded foam sheet, in use, being
said molded foam body, in use, being

stripped from said radiant energy sensing
separated from said radiant energy sensing

probe without damaging said sensing probe,
probe and disposed of after said probe is used

after said probe is used to allow said probe to
to allow said probe to be inserted into a

be inserted into a further probe cover before
further probe cover.

re-use.

[0074]

23

Claim 9 of Cheslock Patent
Proposed Count.

A disposable probe cover as in claim 8
See the Proposed Count.

wherein said probe cover defines a
The additional features provided

further opening,
by this dependent claim are not

patentably distinct from the

Proposed Count.

and further includes a thin plastic film

membrane laminated onto at least a

portion of the body and pre-stretched

across the further opening.

[0075]

24

Claim 10 of Cheslock Patent
Proposed Count.

A disposable probe cover as in claim 44
See the Proposed Count.

wherein said probe has an outer profile
The additional features provided

that approximates the external acoustic
by this dependent claim are not

meatus of the ear of a human subject,
patentably distinct from the

Proposed Count.

and said probe cover conforms to said

probe outer profile so as to provide

increased comfort when said probe and

probe cover are inserted into said

subject's ear.

[0076]

25

Claim 11 of Cheslock Patent
Proposed Count

A disposable probe cover as in claim 8
See the Proposed Count.

wherein said foam in use, provides
The additional features provided

thermal isolation for said probe.
by this dependent claim are not

patentably distinct from the

Proposed Count.

[0077]

26

Claim 12 of Cheslock Patent
Proposed Count.

A disposable foam-based probe cover for
A disposable probe cover for use with a

use with a radiant energy sensing probe,
radiant energy sensing probe,

said disposable probe cover having a
said disposable probe cover comprising foam

passageway defined therein,
molded to provide a compressible,

deformable hollow body having a passage

defined therethrough,

the probe cover, in use, accepting said
the passage being dimensioned for, in use,

radiant energy sensing probe that is oversized
removably accepting at least a portion of said

relative to the dimension of said passageway
radiant energy sensing probe so that the

so that said compressible foam at least
deformable hollow body stretches over and

partially deforms over said radiant energy
thereby frictionally engages said probe,

sensing probe and thereby frictionally

engages said probe so as to removably retain

said compressible foam on said probe during

use,

said probe cover and inserted probe being
said disposable probe cover comprising

shaped for insertion into the external
foam molded to provide a compressible,

acoustical meatus of the ear of the human
deformable hollow body having a passage

body,
defined therethrough,

said probe cover, in use, being stripped
said molded foam body, in use, being

from said radiant energy sensing probe
separated from said radiant energy sensing

without damaging said probe after said probe
probe and disposed of after said probe is used

is used to allow said probe to be inserted into
to allow said probe to be inserted into a

a further probe cover before re-use of said
further probe cover.

probe.

[0078]

27

Claim 13 of Cheslock Patent
Proposed Count

A disposable probe cover for use with a
A disposable probe cover for use with a

radiant energy sensing probe,
radiant energy sensing probe,

said disposable probe cover in use, being
said molded foam body, in use, being

separable from said radiant energy sensing
separated from said radiant energy sensing

probe and disposed of after use,
probe and disposed of after said probe is used,

said disposable probe cover comprising:
said disposable probe cover comprising foam

foam molded to provide a compressible,
molded to provide a compressible,

deformable hollow body having a passage
deformable hollow body having a passage

defined therethrough, the passage being
defined therethrough, the passage being

dimensioned for, in uses removably accepting
dimensioned for, in use, removably accepting

at least a portion of said radiant energy
at least a portion of said radiant energy

sensing probe,
sensing probe,

the passage terminating in an opening
the passage terminating in an opening through

through which said probe is removably
which said probe is removably inserted,

inserted,

said molded foam body, in use, being
said molded foam body, in use, being

separated from said radiant energy sensing
separated from said radiant energy sensing

probe and disposed of after said probe is used
probe and disposed of after said probe is used

to allow said probe to be inserted into a
to allow said probe to be inserted into a

further probe cover,
further probe cover.

wherein said probe is oversized relative to
the passage being dimensioned for, in use,

said passage, and said foam at least partially
removably accepting at least a portion of said

deforms when said probe is inserted into said
radiant energy sensing probe so that the

passage so as to removably, frictionally
deformable hollow body stretches over and

engage said probe.
thereby frictionally engages said probe.

[0079]

28

Claim 14 of Cheslock Patent
Proposed Count.

A disposable probe cover for use with a
A disposable probe cover for use with a

radiant energy sensing probe,
radiant energy sensing probe,

said disposable probe cover, in use, being
said molded foam body, in use, being

separable from said radiant energy sensing
separated from said radiant energy sensing

probe and disposed of after use,
probe and disposed of after said probe is used,

said disposable probe cover comprising:
said disposable probe cover comprising foam

a foam sheet molded to provide a
molded to provide a compressible,

compressible, deformable hollow body
deformable hollow body having a passage

having a passage defined therethrough,
defined therethrough,

the passage being dimensioned for, in use,
the passage being dimensioned for, in use,

accepting at least a portion of said radiant
removably accepting at least a portion of said

energy sensing probe,
radiant energy sensing probe,

the passage terminating in an opening
the passage terminating in an opening

through which said probe is, in use,
through which said probe is removably

removably inserted,
inserted,

said molded foam sheet, in use, being
said molded foam body, in use, being

stripped from said radiant energy sensing
separated from said radiant energy sensing

probe without damaging said sensing probe,
probe and disposed of after said probe is used

after said probe is used to allow said probe to
to allow said probe to be inserted into a

be inserted into a further probe cover before
further probe cover,

re-use,

wherein said probe is oversized relative to
the passage being dimensioned for, in use,

said passage,
removably accepting at least a portion of said

radiant energy sensing probe,

and said foam at least partially deforms
so that the deformable hollow body stretches

when said probe is inserted into said passage
over and thereby frictionally engages said

so as to removably, frictionally engage said
probe.

probe.

	Number	Date	Country
Parent	09117724	Aug 1998	US
Child	09794598	Feb 2001	US

Protective cap for infrared radiation thermometer

Information

Publication Number

Date Filed

Date Published

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CPC

US Classifications

International Classifications

Abstract

Description

Claims

Priority Claims (1)

Divisions (1)