Fast response thermoresistive temperature sensing probe

Claim 1

A fast response, electronic clinical thermometer for measuring body temperature having a probe with a temperature sensing end comprising: a thermal sensor assembly including a thin, thermally conductive metal plate member having a peripheral edge and outer and inner surfaces, a temperature sensing element having a low thermal mass and electrically connected and disposed in temperature responsive relationship with said conductive metal plate member on said inner surface, a first small diameter wire lead electrically connected to said inner surface of said metal plate member and a second small diameter wire lead electrically connected to said temperature sensing element, said leads disposed within said probe, and a probe body comprising a hollow tubular member of electrically insulating plastic material having a low thermal mass, said tubular member having a radially inwardly directed platform defining a central opening larger than said temperature sensing element and smaller than said metal plate member, said platform supporting the peripheral edge on said inner surface of said plate member, said tubular member further defining a deformable peripheral flange surrounding said platform and crimped toward said platform to sealingly engage the peripheral edge of said plate member for clamping said assembly to said probe body producing a contaminant-resistant, closed-end probe which permits only said outer surface of said metal plate member, which is in direct conductive contact with said temperature sensing element, and at least a portion of said probe body, to make contact with the tissues of the body for measuring body temperature.