Methods and apparatus for sensing the mechanical application of force
US4757194A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 10, 1986 |
| Grant date | Jul 12, 1988 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 10, 2006 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2/0027
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A probe for sensing the mechanical application of force is described wherein the terminus of at least one optical fiber is provided at a preselected distance from a reflective surface. The reflective surface is reciprocatively mounted relative to the fiber wherein application of steady mechanical force to the reflective surface mounting means causes the reflective surface to move closer to the fiber terminus. A light source and reflected light intensity sensing means are provided. The probe is desensitized to pressure differentials across the fiber terminus-reflective surface distance by providing an atmospheric vent to the space to be sensed. In a preferred embodiment, the catheter-sheathed optical fiber and reflective surface mounting means are used to detect impending incontinence whose onset is signalled to a health care provider by an audible alarm.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.