US 7,841,445 B2 · Dual-sensor stethoscope with electronic sensor

Abstract

A dual-sensor stethoscope, or retrofit device for a stethoscope, promotes anti-sepsis and stereoscopy through use of a substantially rigid, generally T-shaped tube for support of dual stethoscope sensors, wherein at least one sensor is electronic. Each sensor may be rotated away from a body independently for use of a single head or rotated into the same general plane for dual-head stereoscopy. A clinician can create a spatial, three-dimensional (3D) antiseptic barrier and avoid the need to carry multiple stethoscopes. During stereoscopy, the use of a common tube or earphones allows the transmission of sound with constructive interference of sound waves. The substantially rigid, generally T-shaped support tube allows a clinician to auscultate with one hand and monitor two locations without transference of pathogens.

Claims20

Dependent claims

A dual-head anti-sepsis stethoscope device comprising:

a connection tube dimensioned to engage a sound conduction tube of a stethoscope;
a second tube connected to the connection tube, the second tube having a first end and a second end;
a first sensor head-supporting tube coupled to the first end of the second tube;
a second sensor head-supporting tube coupled to the second end of the second tube;
wherein at least one of the first and second sensor head-supporting tubes is rotatably coupled relative to the second tube;
an electronic sensor incorporating a microphone attached to the first sensor head-supporting tubes at an end opposite the second tube;
a processor for processing signals from the microphone to produce processed audio signals;
and
an audio output means for receiving the processed audio signals, wherein said audio output means is positioned in one of the locations selected from the group consisting of the connection tube, the second tube, and the first sensor head-supporting tube.

6 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Dual-sensor stethoscope with electronic sensor

Life of this patent

Dual-sensor stethoscope with electronic sensor

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims20