Radiometers and related devices and methods
AssigneeThermimage, Inc.
InventorsDouglas G. Turnquist, Doug Reudink, Brent W. Snow
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Certain radiometer assemblies can include an antenna that is shielded within an enclosure, which can have an open end. The antenna can be used to receive signals from a patient via a matching layer that is positioned at the open end of the enclosure. In some assemblies, a rim of shielding material encompasses the open end of the enclosure so as to reduce stray electromagnetic interference, such as when the assembly is used to monitor a deep tissue temperature.
Claims16
A system for monitoring an internal temperature of a patient, the system comprising:
- an electrical shield that defines a cavity having an opening at an end thereof, wherein the electrical shield comprises a connection interface;
- a radiometer, wherein at least a portion of the radiometer is positioned within the cavity of the shield so as to be protected from stray electromagnetic radiation;
- an antenna coupled with the radiometer and positioned within the cavity of the shield, wherein the antenna is recessed within the cavity;
- and
- a disposable unit configured to selectively cover the opening of the cavity, wherein the disposable unit comprises:
- an impedance matching element configured to couple electromagnetic energy into or out of the antenna, wherein the impedance matching element is configured to be positioned within the cavity when the disposable unit is coupled with the electrical shield such that the impedance matching element can contact the antenna;
- a shield extension configured to extend beyond a perimeter of the electrical shield when the disposable unit is coupled with the electrical shield so as to further protect the at least a portion of the radiometer that is positioned within the cavity of the shield from stray electromagnetic radiation;
- and
- a connection interface that is configured to be selectively coupled with the electrical shield.
A system for monitoring an internal temperature of a patient, the system comprising:
- an electrical shield that defines a cavity having an opening at an end thereof, wherein the electrical shield comprises a connection interface;
- a radiometer, wherein at least a portion of the radiometer is positioned within the cavity of the shield so as to be protected from stray electromagnetic radiation;
- an antenna assembly positioned within the cavity of the electrical shield, the antenna assembly comprising;
- an antenna coupled with the radiometer and positioned within the cavity of the shield;
- and
- a substrate coupled with the antenna such that at least a portion of the antenna is exposed to the opening of the electrical shield;
- an impedance matching element in contact with the antenna, wherein the impedance matching element is configured to couple electromagnetic energy into or out of the antenna;
- and
- a shield extension that is electrically coupled with and extends from the electrical shield so as to further protect the at least a portion of the radiometer that is positioned within the cavity of the shield from stray electromagnetic radiation.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.