FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a positioning device for use with a digital thermometer.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the way many businesses operate . Business establishments must now safeguard both their employees and customers entering their premises. Known symptoms of the virus include cough, shortness of breath, and fever. While an establishment may believe a cough or shortness of breath is an indication of the virus, it is Very possible the individual simply has allergies or has overexerted him/herself. Denying someone entry to the premises due to a cough could be discriminatory. However, a fever is a measurable physiological change in an individual, usually the result of some type of infection. As a result, a fever may be considered highly indicative that an individual is infected with the virus causing Covid-19 or another virus. While the fever may be the result of nothing more than a common cold, which is also a coronavirus, the fever symptom remains a reliable indicator that the individual may be sick. Since temperature reading is highly reliable, taking the temperature of employees and customers will likely become a required step to gain entrance. Infrared forehead thermometers, often called thermometer guns, are non-contact laser thermometers that can provide an immediate temperature reading.

The convenience and reliability of such a device is well known. However, the use of a conventional, non-contact thermometer requires a second individual to hold the device, point the device at the first individual's forehead, and operate a trigger to take the temperature. The second individual would have to be in close proximity to point the thermometer, take the individual's temperature, and read the results. However, placing an individual in close proximity to an ill person places that individual at risk. The second person would need to have protective gear, such as a face mask, face shield, gloves and possible clothing covers.

In the case of many businesses, such as a law firm, employees entering a building first encounter a receptionist. As such, the receptionist is likely the individual responsible for taking employee temperatures. However, this responsibility may place the receptionist at risk should the individual have the virus. If the individual is required to take their own temperature, they will, have to hold the thermometer, wherein the virus can be passed from that individual to the next one holding the thermometer. Disinfection is possible, but is yet another step and possible exposure to a disease.

Another example is restaurants wherein patrons would expect the establishment to be safe. The restaurant is placed in a position of having to check customers as they enter the door. Such actions place the person taking the temperature at risk.

What is needed in the industry is a device that can hold most any conventional digital infrared thermometer gun, allowing:an individual to take their own temperature without anyone holding the thermometer.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed towards a hands-free thermometer support or positioning device for a gun shaped digital, non-contact forehead thermometer, The hands-free thermometer support or positioning device may include a thermometer support bracket stand and base, a thermometer actuator, and a reflective mechanism.

Accordingly, it is an objective of the invention to provide a hands-free device for operating a conventional digital thermometer.

It is also ah objective of the invention to provide a hands-free device for operating a conventional digital, non- contact forehead thermometer.

It is a further objective of the invention to teach the use of a tripod having a foot operated lever to actuate the trigger button found on most conventional infrared thermometers.

It is a still further objective of the invention to provide a sensor activated hands-free device for operating a conventional digital, non-contact forehead thermometer.

It is a still farther objective of the invention to provide a proximity sensor activated hands-free device for operating a conventional digital, non-contact forehead thermometer.

It is yet another objective of the invention to provide a device that eliminates the requirement for an additional person to operate and read an infrared thermometer gun.

It is a still further objective of the invention to provide a device that is portable, requires no electricity, has a minimal footprint to allow ease of storage, is easy to set-up, and can be positioned in most,any location.

It is a further objective of the invention to provide a device that allows an individual to take their own temperature and read the temperature taken. It is a still further objective of the invention to avoid having a stranger,point an infrared light at a recipient's eyes.

Still another objective of the invention is to allow an individual, to operate an infrared light when the individual is ready, so as to avoid inadvertent infrared light from a misdirected thermometer gun.

An advantage of the invention is the avoidance of requiring a dedicated individual to take the temperature of individuals as they enter a building.

Another advantage of the invention is the ability of a restaurant, store, or the like premise, to assure that an individual entering the premise shows no outward temperature related signs of an illness.

Yet another advantage of the invention is to provide a device that minimizes exposure of the infrared light used by a digital thermometer to the wrong part of the user.

Other objectives and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with any accompanying drawings wherein are set forth, by way of illustration and example, certain embodiments of this invention. Any drawings contained herein constitute a part of this specification, include exemplary embodiments of the present invention, and illustrate various objects and features thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Figure 1 is a front view of an illustrative embodiment of a hands-free thermometer support or positioning device;

Figure 2 is a side view of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device; Figure 3 is an illustrative embodiment of a hands-free thermometer support or positioning device base support;

Figure 4 illustrates an embodiment: of an actuator

System;

Figure 5 is an illustrative embodiment of a conventional digital, non-contact forehead thermometer;

Figure 6 illustrates the conventional digital, non- contact forehead thermometer with a mirror;

Figure 7 is an illustrative embodiment of a hands-free thermometer support or positioning device thermometer bracket; figure 8 illustrates the conventional digital, non- contact forehead thermometer secured to the thermometer bracket shown in Figure 7;

Figure 9A is an illustrative embodiment of a hands-free thermometer support or positioning device thermometer bracket;

Figure 9B illustrates the conventional digital, non- contact forehead thermometer secured to the thermometer bracket shown in Figure 9A;

Figure 10 is an illustrative embodiment of a hands-free thermometer support or positioning device thermometer bracket;

Figure 11 illustrates the conventional digital, non- contact forehead thermometer secured to the thermometer bracket with attached mirror system;

Figure 12 illustrates a mirror system having a receiving mirror and a projecting mirror; figure 13 is a schematic illustration of a thermometer bracket rotating mechanism;

Figure 14 illustrates the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with the rotating thermometer bracket; figure 15 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device, shown with sensor based activation;

Figure 16 is a side view of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation;

Figure 17 is a front view of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation;

Figure 18 is a back view of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation;

Figure 19 illustrates the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation operatively connected to a computer;

Figure 20 illustrates the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation arranged in a different orientation;

Figure 21 illustrates an embodiment of a thermometer support or positioning device support structure;

Figure 22 is a front view of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation, shown without the support structure;

Figure 23 is a back view of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation, shown without the support structure;

Figure 24 is a right side view of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation shown in Figure 22;

Figure 25 is a left side view of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation shown in Figure 22;

Figure 26 is s top view of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation shown in Figure 22; figure 27 is a bottom view of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation shown in figure 22;

Figure 28 is a bottom view of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation shown in figure 22, illustrated with the bottom cover removed;

Figure 29 is a close up top view of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation shown in Figure 22;

Figure 30 is a perspective view of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation shown in Figure 22, illustrated with a digital, non-contact forehead thermometer inserted therein;

Figure 31 is a front view of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based:activation shown in Figure 22, illustrated with a digital, non-contact forehead thermometer inserted therein;

Figure 32 is a back view of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation shown in Figure 22, illustrated with a digital, non-contact forehead thermometer inserted therein;

Figure 33 illustrates the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with a secondary securing member;

Figure 34 illustrates the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with mirrors;

Figure 35 illustrates the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with stand notification;

Figure 36 illustrates the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with a shield;

Figure 37 illustrates the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with a shield receiving channel; Figure 38 illustrates the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with a shield inserted into the shield receiving channel.;

Figure 39 illustrates an embodiment of a stand configured to receive and hold multiple hands-free thermometer support or positioning devices with sensor based activation;

Figure 40 illustrates an embodiment of a stand configured to receive and hold multiple hands-free thermometer support or positioning devices with sensor based activation, show with multiple shields;

Figure 41 is a schematic diagram of an actuating system of the hands-free thermometer support or positioning device with sensor based activation;

Figure 42 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the sensor based activation hands-free thermometer support or positioning device;

Figure 43 is an alternative perspective view of the sensor based activation hands-free thermometer support or positioning device illustrated in Figure 42;

Figure 44 is a side view of the sensor based activation hands-free thermometer support or positioning device illustrated in Figure 42;

Figure 45 is a top view of the sensor based activation hands-free thermometer support or positioning device illustrated in Figure 42;

Figure 46 is a front view of the sensor based activation hands-free thermometer support or positioning device illustrated in Figure 42;

Figure 47 is an: exploded view of the sensor based activation hands-free thermometer support or positioning device illustrated in Figure 42; Figure 48 is a side view of the sensor based activation hands-free thermometer support or positioning device illustrated in Figure 42, shown with a portion of the sensor activated thermometer module removed;

Figure 49 is an alternative view of the sensor based activation hands-free thermometer support or positioning device illustrated in Figure 42, shown with the protective shield removed and a portion of the sensor activated thermometer module removed;

Figure 50A shows the sensor based activation hands-free thermometer support or positioning device illustrated in Figure 42 with one portion of the protective shield removed, illustrating the actuating system in the non-triggered state, or non-temperature taking position;

Figure 50B is a close-up view of the actuating system in the non-triggered state, or non-temperature taking position, illustrated in Figure BOB;

Figure 50C shows the sensor based activation hands-free thermometer support or positioning device illustrated in Figure 42 with one portion of the protective shield removed, illustrating the actuating system in the triggered state, or temperature taking position;

Figure 50D is a close-up view of the actuating system in the triggered state, or temperature taking position, illustrated in Figure 50C;

Figure 51A is a perspective view of an illustrative embodiment of a first component of the sensor activated thermometer module;

Figure 51B is a perspective view of an illustrative embodiment of a second component of the sensor activated thermometer module; Figure 52A is a perspective view of an illustrative embodiment of a trigger activating member;

Figure 52B is an alternative perspective view of the trigger activating member;

Figure 53A is an illustrative embodiment of a motor;

Figure 53B is an alternative view of the motor;

Figure 54 is an Illustrative embodiment of a sensor;

Figure 55 is an illustrative embodiment of a protective shield; and

Figure 56 illustrates the sensor based activation hands- free thermometer support or positioning device plugged into a wall socket.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in various forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described a presently preferred, albeit not limiting, embodiment with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated.

Referring to Figures 1 and 2, an illustrative embodiment of a hands-free device for operating a digital thermometer, referred to herein as a hands-free thermometer support or positioning device 10, is shown. While the hands-free thermometer support 10 is illustrated for operating a standard digital, non-contact forehead thermometer, other types of thermometers for obtaining an individual·s body temperature can be peed as well. The hands-free thermometer support 10, therefore, may be adapted to support a traditional digital thermometer for contact based (as used herein to define that the temperature device contacts the user's body part) oral, under arm, or rectal temperature taking, or other contact or non-contact ear, forearm, and forehead reading thermometers. Accordingly, the hands-free thermometer support 10 is configured to allow the taking of the temperature of the individual without that individual, or a second person, touching or contacting the thermometer during the process.

As illustrated in figures 1 and 2, the hands-free thermometer support 10 comprises a thermometer bracket 12, a thermometer support bracket stand 14, a base 16, and a thermometer actuator 18. The thermometer bracket 12 is configured to receive, hold, and support a conventional digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20, The conventional digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 may be a standard infrared forehead thermometer having a body 22 shaped like a gun having a handle portion 24, see Figure 5, a digital display 26, an IR sensor 28, and a measuring key, such as a trigger 30. The thermometer bracket 12 is designed to maintain the conventional digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 in a fixed position once secured thereto and positioned in the proper place.

Figure 7 provides an illustrative example of a thermometer bracket 12 having a generally planar surface 32 having an opening 34. The opening 34 is sized and shaped to receive and hold at least a portion of the digital, non- contact forehead thermometer 20, such as the handle 24, see Figure 8. Alternatively, the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 may be snap fit or frictionally fit to the thermometer bracket 12- Figures 9A and 9B illustrate the generally planar surface 32 having guide members 36 and 38. The guide members 36 and 38 are made, of an expandable or flexible material that can expand or flex outwardly when a force is applied, and return to their original shape or position when the force is removed. As illustrated in Figure 98, when the handle 24 of the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 is inserted'between guide members 36 and 38, the guide members 36 and 38 flex or expand around the handle 24, thereby locking or fixing it in place,

Figure 10 illustrates an embodiment of the thermometer bracket 12 having a vertical element 41 and a horizontal element 43 which can secure to the handle portion 24 and the IR sensor 28 (Fig. 5) portion of the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 via fasteners, such as straps 45 with loop 47 and hook fasteners 49, such as VELCRO, see Figure 6, or other mechanical fasteners, such as screws.

Referring back to Figure 1, the thermometer support bracket stand 14 is shown having three elongated members, referred to as a first thermometer support bracket stand leg 40, a second thermometer support bracket stand leg 42, and a third thermometer support bracket stand leg 44, similar to a tripod device, secured or arranged together to form ah apex 45, The apex 45 may be positioned to read the temperature of an individual ^' s forehead or foreamn

The first thermometer support bracket stand leg 40 comprises a first end 46 configured to secure to at least a portion of the thermometer bracket 12, a second opposing end 48, and a main body 50 therebetween. The main body 50 may be made of a single piece, alternatively, the main body 50 may be made of two or more components, preferably with one of the two or more components fitting within the other component to provide for height adjustment or storage. If constructed as a single component, the main body 50 may be collapsible.

The second thermometer support bracket stand leg 42 comprises a first end 52 configured to secure to at least a portion of the thermometer bracket 12, a second opposing end 54, and a main body 56 therebetween. The main body 56 may be made of a single piece. Alternatively, the main body 56 may be made of two or more components, preferably with one of the two components fitting within the other component to provide for height adjustment or storage, If constructed as a single component, the main body 56 may be collapsible.

The third thermometer support bracket stand leg 44 comprises a first end 58 configured to secure to at least a portion of the thermometer bracket 12, a second opposing end 60, and a main body 62 therebetween. The main body 62 may be made of a single piece. Alternatively, the main body 62 may be made of two or more components, preferably with end of the two or more components fitting within the other component to provide for height adjustment or storage. If constructed as a single component, the main body 62 may be collapsible. Each of the first ends 46, 52, and 58 may be secured to at least a portion of the thermometer bracket 12 by mechanical means, such as fastening devices, such as screws, nuts, or bolts (not shown). Each of the legs are preferably secured to and arranged about the thermometer bracket 12 to provide a stable platform which prevents the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 from tipping or falling when in use.

Referring to Figure 3, the base 16 is designed to provide further support, stabilizing the thermometer support bracket stand legs 40, 42, and 44 and preventing individual movement of the thermometer support Bracket stand legs 40, 42, and 44 when in use. The base 16 may be made of a first portion 64, a second portion 66, and a third portion 68 arranged to define an interior region 70. The base 16 includes a plurality of openings 72, 74, and 76, each sized and shaped to receive and hold at least a portion of the thermometer support bracket Stand legs 40, 42, and 44, The thermometer actuator 18 is configured to allow a user a contactless mechanism to operate the digital, non- contact forehead thermometer 20, thus obtaining his/her body temperature without 1) touching the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20, or 2) having a second person operating the digital,, non-contact forehead thermometer 20.

Such mechanism allows for safe operation without the risk of spreading disease. The thermometer actuator 18 may include a foot operated lever 78 secured to a first end 80 of an actuating wire 82. The second end 84 of the actuating wire 82 is operatively connected to the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20, Accordingly, activation of the foot operated lever 78, i,e., stepping on it and pushing it towards the floor 88, see arrow 88, Figure 4, causing a force to move the actuating wire 82. The movement of the actuating wire 82 causes the trigger 30 to be depressed. The foot operated lever 78 may be positioned beneath the apex 45, wherein operation of the foot operated lever 78 places an equal force on each of legs 40, 42, 44.

To aid in temperature reading visualization, the hands- free thermometer support 10 may include one or more mirrors 90 attached to the thermometer bracket 12 or the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 via wire 92. Preferably, mirror 90 is positioned adjacent to the display 26 of the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20. Figure 11 illustrates ah embodiment of the hands-free thermometer support 10 using two mirrors arranged at or near right angles from each other so as to allow the user to see the correct orientation of the temperate reading displayed on the digital, non-contact:forehead thermometer digital display 26. The two mirrors may be arranged to allow reading of the display from an offset position. As illustrated in Figure 11, the displayed digital, non- contact forehead thermometer digital display 26 is shown displaying a temperature reading of "100" degrees. The first mirror 94 illustrates the reverse image to "001" from that displayed on the digital display 26. The second mirror 96, arranged at a right angle from the first mirror 94, reverses the "the 001" image to the actual image orientation displayed on the digital display 26 of "100". Figure 12 illustrates the dual mirror system in which the first mirror 94 is a receiving mirror and the second mirror 96 is a projecting mirror. The projecting mirror 96 is configured to enlarge the image from the first mirror 94 by 5X, 10X, 50X the original size.

Alternative mechanisms to display the correct orientation of the temperature reading displayed digitally, from the non-contact forehead thermometer digital display 26 may include the use of a camera, camera obscura, non-reversing or flip mirrors, of use of concave or convex mirrors. Alternatively, the hands-free thermometer support 10 may use a camera lucida, an optical device (for example, a half- silver mirror) that superimposes an image onto a canvas or screen. The canvas or screen may be independent of the hands- free thermometer support 10 or attached thereto.

To aid in adjusting the positioning of the digital, non- contact forehead thermometer 20 for use with different heights, the hands-free thermometer support 10 may be configured to move or rotate the thermometer bracket 12. Figure 13 is a schematic illustration in which the thermometer bracket 12, shown with the digital, don-contact forehead thermometer 20 attached thereto, is operatively linked with a motor 98, The motor 98 is configured to move the thermometer bracket 12, and thus the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 secured thereto, The movement of the thermometer bracket 12 may be remotely controlled by a control unit 100 (with cord 102, or could be configured to operate wirelessly) operatively connected to the motor 98,

Figure 14 illustrates the action of the motor 98 on the thermometer bracket 12, Activation of the motor 98 causes the thermometer bracket 12 to move Up or down, see arrow 104, relative to a longitudinal axis 106, Such movement is depicted by the orientation of the thermometer bracket 12, shown in broken lines and referred to as 12A or 12B. AS the thermometer bracket 12 is moved, the radiation beam 108 of the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 is also moved. Such action allows the User to orientate the radiation beam 108 to the correct location or orientation on their forehead, regardless of the height of the thermometer support bracket stand 14,

A pivot secured to the apex 45 may also be utilized so the thermometer bracket 12 can be angled so mirrors 90, or 94 and 96, is/are further defined as single or two mirrors constructed and arranged to allow reading of the display from an offset position.

Referring to Figures 15-18, an illustrative embodiment of a hands-free device for operating a digital thermometer using a sensor, referred to herein as a sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200, is shown, similar to the hands-free thermometer support 10 described above, the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 is configured to allow the taking of the temperature of the individual without that individual, or:a second person, touching or contacting the thermometer during the process. The sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 comprises a sensor activated thermometer housing 202 and a support structure 204,

Referring to Figures 22-29, the sensor activated thermometer housing 202 is illustrated. The sensor activated thermometer housing 202 is configured to receive and hold a thermometer, preferably the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20. The sensor activated thermometer housing 202 comprises a top «all.or surface 208, a bottom wall,or Surface 210, two opposing side walls or surfaces 212, 214, a front wall or surface 216, and a back wall or surface 218, The top wall or surface 208, bottom wall or surface 210, two opposing side walls or surfaces 212, 214, front wall or surface 216, and back wall or surface 218 are secured or formed together to enclose an interior 220, The interior 220 is sited and shaped to store therein one or more components that provide functionality. In addition, the interior 220 is sized and shaped to receive and hold therein one or more portions of the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20. In use, the handle portion 24 of the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 may be inserted into the sensor activated thermometer housing 202 through the opening 224 within the top wall or surface 208.

The sensor activated hands-free thermometer support structure 204 is configured to maintain the sensor activated thermometer housing 202, and thus the digital, non-contact forehead them ometer 20 when inserted therein, in a predetermined orientation and location. Referring to Figure 21, the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support structure 204 is shown having a base plate 226 having a post receiving member 228, illustrated herein as a cylindrical tube shaped body 230 with opening 232. The cylindrical tube shaped body 230 is sized and shaped to receive and hold therein a positioning post 234 at a first end 236. The second end 238 of the positioning post 234 may include an elbow connector 240.

The elbow connector 240 may include an opening 242, exposing an interior 244 sized and shaped to receive and secure therein a sensor activated thermometer housing securing member, illustrated herein a protuberance 246, see Figure 24. Protuberance 246 is configured as a generally cylindrical shaped body mirrored to fit the shape of the elbow connector interior 244. Accordingly, to secure the sensor activated thermometer housing 202 to the post 234, the sensor activated thermometer housing securing member, i.e. protuberance 246, is inserted into the interior 244 of the elbow connector 240 and secured by tightening screw 248, While the sensor activated thermometer housing 202 is illustrated in an orientation facing away from the base plate edge 250, the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 may be configured with the sensor activated thermometer housing 202 orientated facing towards the base plate end edge 250, see Figure 20, While the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 is illustrated secured to the support structure 204, the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 may also be used in combination with the thermometer support bracket stand 14,

The sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 is designed to activate conventional digital, non-contact forehead thermometers 20 which utilize a trigger to obtain a temperature reading via the use of a sensor. Figure 41 provides a schematic representation of an illustrative embodiment of the functional components of the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200. Accordingly, the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 uses a sensor 252, preferably a proximity sensor, but could be other sensors such as a motion sensor, operatively connected (via wiring 253, see also Figure 28) to a control unit 254. The control unit 254 may be a processor with memory/storage, software, and any other hardware necessary to perform all functions, or a printed circuit board 255, see Figure 28. The processor may include a general purpose central processing unit(s), application specific processors, and logic devices, as well as any other type of processing device, or combinations or variations thereof. Instructions for the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 and/or the functioning of the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 can direct the processor to carry out any of the processes described herein.

The memory/storage may include any computer readable storage media readable by the processor and capable of storing software, including instructions for sensor activated hands- free thermometer support 200 functioning or operations. The memory/storage may include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media, implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Illustrative examples of the memory/storage may include storage media, Including random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), magnetic disks, optical disks, CDs, DVDs, flash memory, solid state memory, phase change memory, or any other suitable storage media. Certain implementations may involve either of both virtual memory and non-virtual memory. In addition to storage media, in some implementations, the memory/storage may also include communication media over which software may be communicated internally or externally. Once the sensor 252 is activated, it causes an actuating system 256, which may include a motor 258, with a motor arm 260 operatively connected to a trigger activating member, such as a cam 262. Upon activation, the cam 262 causes the thermometer trigger 264 to activate the digital, non-contact forehead thermometers 20, i.e. cause it to calculate a temperature reading for the user to view. The sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 may be activated by a power supply 266, which may be a corded power supply and cable or a battery.

To provide proper functioning, the sensor activated thermometer housing 202 is configured to align the actuating system 256 with the thermometer trigger 264 when the conventional digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 is inserted into and rests within the sensor activated thermometer housing interior 220. The conventional digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 may be secured in place by a screw 269. Accordingly, the sensor activated thermometer housing interior 220 preferably includes a shoulder or landing 270, see Figures 26 and 29, sized, shaped and positioned within the interior 220 to rest under the thermometer trigger 264, such as the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer trigger 30, but allow the digital, non- contact forehead thermometer head to rest above or extend out and above the top wall or surface opening 224. A space or distance 271 between the inner wall 273 adjacent to the shoulder wall 270 (which extends to the bottom) and back wall or surface 219 and the space or distance 275 between side walls or surfaces 212 and 214 are slightly larger than the depth and/or width of the handle portion of the digital, non- contact forehead thermometers 20. - In this alignment, when the proximity sensor 272 is activated by the user placing his/her head at a predetermined distance from the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer IR sensor 28, motor arm 260 causes the cam 262 to rotate in one direction, contacting the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer trigger 30. After contact is made, the motor arm 260 causes the cam 262 to rotate back to its original starting position.

Referring to Figures 30-32, the sensor activated hands- free thermometer support 200 is shown without the support structure 204. In such usage, the sensor activated hands- free thermometer support 200 may simply he placed on a surface, such as a table or desk, of may be mounted to a wall.

In use with the support structure 204 or without the support structure 204, the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 may be powered, either wired or wirelessly, via USB port 274, see Figure 23. As illustrated in Figure 19, the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 is operatively coupled to computer 276 via cable 278 secured to USB port 274. This arrangement allows the computer to power the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 and/or transmit data from the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 to the computer 276. Such data may include the date, time and temperature reading. The sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 may include a camera which is activated, takes a picture of the temperature reading or displays the temperature reading, when a temperature is taken.

Referring to Figure 33, the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 is shown with the support structure 204 having a second post receiving member 278, illustrated herein as a cylindrical tube shaped body 282 with opening 284. The cylindrical tube shaped body 282 is sized and shaped to receive a positioning post 234.

Referring to Figure 34, the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 is shown with the support structure having two mirrors 94, 96, arranged at or near right angles from each other so as to allow the user to see the correct orientation of the temperature reading displayed on the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer digital display 26, the two mirrors 90 may be arranged to allow reading of the display from an offset position. Alternative mechanisms for displaying the temperature reading described for the hands- free thermometer support 10 may also be used. One or more mirrors may also be secured to the base 226 via securing to the second post receiving member 278.

Referring to Figure 35, the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 is shown with the support structure 204 having color indicators, such as LED lights 282 secured to the side edge 284 (partially or all around the perimeter) and/or to the post 234, The LED lights 282 may illuminate green when the temperature reading of the conventional digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 displays a temperature that is within a safe zone, i.e. no fever; yellow when the body temperature displayed is in a range that is deemed elevated; and red when the body temperature displayed is in a range that is determined to be unhealthy. The support structure 204 may also:be configured so that audible can be produced, whether beeps corresponding to green, yellow, or red, or actual reading/viewing values corresponding to the temperature are displayed.

Referring to Figure 36, the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 is shown with the support structure 204 having a shield or partition 286 secured or integrally formed thereto. The shield or partition 286 may be a clear or see through plastic material designed to prevent fluid, air or liquids expelled from a user taking his/her temperature from contacting an individual that is overseeing the process or recording the results.

Figure 37 illustrates an embodiment of the support structure 204 having a shield or partition receiving member, illustrated as shield or partition receiving member channel 288, The shield or partition receiving member channel 288 is sized and shaped to receive and hold therein a bottom edge 290, see Figure 38, of the shield or partition 286, thus allowing for the removal or addition of the shield or partition 286 as needed,

As illustrated in Figure 39, the sensor activated hands- free thermometer support 200 is shown with the support structure 204 having multiple post receiving members 228 and posts 234, thus supporting multiple conventional digital, non-contact forehead thermometers 20 secured within multiple sensor activated thermometer housings 202. Figure 40 illustrates the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 shown in Figure 39, having multiple shields or partitions 286, thus allowing multiple users to obtain temperature readings simultaneously in a safer manner.

Although not specifically described, where capable, features described for the hands-free thermometer support 10 may be applicable to and used with the sensor activated hands- free thermometer support 200.

Referring to Figures 42-50B, an illustrative embodiment of a hands-free device for operating a digital thermometer using a sensor, referred to herein as a sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 300, is shown. Similar to the hands-free thermometer supports 10 and 200 described above, the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 300 is configured to allow the taking of body temperature of an individual without that individual, or a second, independent person, touching of contacting the thermometer during the process. The sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 300 comprises a sensor activated thermometer module 302, a sensor activated thermometer module support structure 304, and optionally, a shield or partition 306 secured or integrally formed thereto, and power source 308, illustrated herein as a battery, such as a Li Polymer battery.

The sensor activated thermometer module 302 is configured for receiving and holding a thermometer, preferably the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 described previously. The sensor activated thermometer module 302 comprises a first (right) component 310 and second

(left) component 312, see Figures 51A and 51B, the first component 310 may be secured to the second component 312 via fastening members, illustrated herein as screws 314, inserted through openings 315 to form an interior 316. The interior 316 is sized, shaped and configured to store therein one or more components that provide device functionality, In addition, the interior 316 is sized and shaped to receive and hold therein one or more portions of the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20, The interior 316 may include ribs, located on the interior surface of the first (right) component 310 and/or second (left) component 312, to properly align or fit the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 when inserted therein. In use, the handle portion 24 of the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 may be inserted into the sensor activated thermometer housing 302 through a first or top opening 318 located at the upper end 320 of the sensor activated thermometer module 302 and formed when the first component 310 is secured to the second component 312. The handle portion 24 of the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 may extend through the interior 316 and out of the bottom end 322 of the sensor activated thermometer module 302 through a second or bottom opening 324. While the sensor activated thermometer module 302 may be configured to completely house the handle portion 24 therein, i.e. not extending out of the bottom end 322, allowing at least a portion of the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 to extend out allows a user to change the batteries of the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 while still placed within the sensor activated thermometer module 302.

The sensor activated thermometer module 302 is also configured for activating a trigger activated thermometer, preferably the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20, The sensor activated thermometer module 302 may include a sensor 326 (with sensor printed circuit board 327), see Figures 47 and 54, such as an IR range finder sensor (such as a distance measuring sensor unit composed of an integrated combination position sensitive detector (PSD), an infrared emitting diode (IR-LED), and a signal processing circuit), a proximity sensor, or other sensors such as a motion sensor, operatively connected (via wires) to a control unit 328 (see Figure 47), to measure a subject's/user's :(i.e. a person using the senior activated hands-free thermometer support 300 to obtain a temperature reading) distance from the digital, non- contact forehead thermometer 20 (the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer IR sensor 28) . The control unit 328 may be a microprocessor or processor with memory/storage, software, and any other hardware necessary to perform all functions or a printed circuit board/printed circuit board assembly. The microprocessor or processor may include a general purpose central processing unit(s) application specific processors, and logic devices, as well as any other type of processing device:, or combinations or variations thereof. Instructions for the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 300 and/or the functioning of the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 300 can direct the microprocessor or processor to carry out any of the processes described herein.

The memory/storage may include any computer readable storage media readable by the processor and capable of storing software, including instructions for sensor activated hands- free thermometer support 300 functioning or operations. The memory/storage may include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media, implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data, illustrative examples of the memory/storage may include storage media, including random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), magnetic disks, optical disks, CDs, DVDs, flash memory, solid state memory, phase change memory, or any other suitable storage media. Certain implementations may involve either or both virtual memory and non-virtual memory. In addition to storage media, in some implementations, the memory/storage may also include communication media over which software may be communicated internally or externally, when the subject/user is within the specified position, the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 may be activated via a sensor activated thermometer module actuating system 330, (see Figures 47-49) which may include a motor 332, such as a DC motor (secured to motor mount 333, (see Figure 51B) and a trigger activating member 334 . The trigger activating member 334 is configured to engage or disengage with the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer trigger 30. Referring to Figures 52A and 52B, the trigger activating member 334 may comprise a main body 336 haying an upper surface 338 which interacts with the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer trigger 30 via a thermometer trigger receiving member 340. The thermometer trigger receiving member 340 engages and disengages with the digital, non- contact forehead thermometer trigger 30 based on the movement of the motor 332, and may include a surface 342 bound by side walls 344 and 346, and a back wall, or trigger activating wall 348. The surface 342 bound by side walls 344 and 346, and trigger activating wall 348 may form a seat from which at least a portion of the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer trigger 30 rests thereon or near to, see for example Figures 48 and 49.

The distance between the side walls 344 and 346 should be sufficient to allow the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer trigger 30 to fit therebetween when resting on the thermometer trigger receiving member surface 342. The trigger activating wall 348 extends upwardly away from the thermometer trigger receiving member surface 342 (and the trigger activating member main body upper surface 338), and up past (i.e. having a larger vertical length than) the side walls 344 and 346. The trigger activating member 334 may engage with the motor 332 via a rotating motor cam 349, see Figures 47 and 53A and 53B. As the motor cam 349 rotates based on the activation of the motor 332, the trigger activating member 334 (and therefore the thermometer trigger receiving member 340) slides or moves linearly in a horizontal, left to right or right to left direction, the sliding or linear motion is caused by the motor cast 349 rotating and engaging or contacting a cam engaging member 358 (see Figure 52) , illustrated herein as an elongated member or surface extending the length of the trigger activating member main body 336,

The cam engaging member 350 is shown extending away from the surface 342 (and the trigger activating member main body upper surface 338), in a direction opposite of the trigger activating wall 348. As the motor cam 349 is activated, it rotates end contacts the cam engaging member 350. The trigger activating member 334 is designed to float or move within a thermometer trigger receiving member mount 341 (Figure 51B). The trigger activating member main body 336 may comprise an extended surface(s) 343, but could also be other extensions, such as a tabs, arms or posts, extending from each side edge 345A and 345B, which fit or extend into a thermometer trigger receiving member mount channel 347. While the thermometer trigger receiving member mount channel 347 is shown in the second (left) component 312 in Figure 51B, the first (right) component 310 contains the same feature.

Referring to Figures 50A-50D, fhe sensor activated thermometer module actuating system 330 is shown in the non- triggered state, or non-temperature taking position. Figures 50A and 50B, and in the triggered state, or temperature taking position, Figures 50C and 50D. As the trigger activating member 334 moves linearly toward the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer trigger 30 (resting within or near the thermometer trigger receiving member 340), see arrow 331 Figure 50D, it eventually engages via contact with the trigger wall 348, i.e. the trigger wall 348 pushing against the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer trigger 30. Such engagement causes the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer trigger 30 to activate the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20, thus providing a temperature reading. As the motor cam 349 reverses, the trigger activating member 334 moves away from the digital, non- contact forehead thermometer trigger 30 as the digital, non- contact forehead thermometer trigger 30 moves and returns to a non-activating (non-temperature taking/reading) position and pushes against the trigger wall 348.

Once the subject/user is positioned at the proper distance from the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20, the motor 332 causes activation of the digital, non- contact forehead thermometer trigger 30 through the trigger activating member 334. This action activates the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20, which shows the subject's/user's temperature on the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer LCD display screen. Once the reading is taken, the motor 332 reverses, releasing the digital, non- contact forehead thermometer trigger 30 (returning to non- temperature taking position). The subject/user may be guided to the proper temperature taking placement distance (such as 0.8 to 10 inches, preferably 3 inches from the thermometer sensor 28, see Figure 49) by use of a positioning warning system, illustrated herein as an LED light 351, see Figure also Figure 54. An LED light, 351, such as a blue LED light, may be placed in the front of the sensor activated thermometer module 302 and below the thermometer sensor 28, see Figure 49. The blue LED light 351 may be configured to blink at 4 predetermined time rate, for example about a three second rate when power is on and the subject/user is out of range. As the subject/user gets within the detection range, the blink rate increases. The closer the subject/user gets, the faster the blink rate. When the subject/user is in a temperature reading position, the blue LED 351 stays on continuously, After a predetermined time, for example two seconds after the temperature reading is taken; the blue LSD 351 turns off. The blue LED 351 may be configured to stay off until the subject/user is out of the detection range, at which point the blue LED 351 returns to a slow blink rate.

The sensor activated hands-free thermometer support structure 304 is configured to maintain the sensor activated thermometer module 302, and thus the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 when inserted therein, in/at a predetermined orientation and/or position. Referring back to Figure 47, the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support structure 304 say include a height adjustable stand defined by a base 352 supporting a shaft 354. The shaft 354 may comprise an inner tube 356 which rests and slides up/down within an outer tube 358. A locking mechanism 360 maintains the positioning of the inner tube 356 relative to the outer tube 358. The locking mechanism may be a push-pin style, clamp, flange, or any locking mechanisms known to one of skill in the art. The shaft inner tube 356 may include a knob or ball shaped structure 360 having an opening 362. The shaft inner tube knob or ball shaped structure 360 is configured to engage with an interior portion 364 of a neck section 366 of the sensor activated thermometer module 302, see Figure 48. The interior portion 364 is preferably conjugate in shape with the shaft inner tube knob or ball shaped structure 360, allowing rotational movement and providing up/down adjustment of the sensor activated thermometer module 302 to the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support structure 304. The sensor activated thermometer module 302 may be secured to the shaft inner tube knob or ball shaped structure 360 via screw 368 and nut 370,

Referring to Figure 55, an illustrative example of the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support shield or partition 306 is shown. The shield or partition 306 may be a clear or see through plastic material, such as acrylic, designed to prevent fluid, air or liquids expelled from a user taking his/her temperature from contacting an individual that is overseeing the process or recording the results. As such, the size and shape of the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support shield or partition 306 may depend on the use and location, and therefore may be variable . The sensor activated hands-free thermometer support shield or partition 306 may include various types of indicia (such as words, symbols, pictures) to convey different types of information. For example, an outline of a human face 372 with eyes 374 and eyebrows 376 may be used to help a subject/user properly align his/her head for a temperature reading. A set of instructions, with words 380 and pictures 382 may be used to help the subject/user properly use the device, symbols, such as thumbs up 384, thumbs down 386 with a yellow background, or no entry 388 with a red background, may also be displayed to help the subject/user know it is safe to enter the building or if they are prohibited from entering the building. The sensor activated hands-free thermometer support shield or partition 306 may also include a company logo 390, company web address 392, or QR code 394 for marketing or other informational purposes.

To aid the subject/user in seeing his/her temperature reading, the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support shield or partition 306 may include a reflective material 396, such as a vinyl, one way reflective mirror window tint (Hidbea). The reflective material 396 shows an image 398 (in this case a reverse image of the numerical values of the temperature reading) of the LCD screen of the digital, non- contact forehead thermometer 20. If the LCD screen of the digital, non-contact forehead thermometer 20 uses color coding (green screen, red screen, or yellow screen), the subject/user would be able to see those colors as well via the reflective material 396. To aid in maintaining cleanliness and preventing continuous wiping down, the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support shield or partition 306 may optionally include an anti-microbial film 390, such as PURE ZONE, a transparent, self-adhesive film containing anti-microbial agents and coated with a pressure-sensitive acrylic adhesive (Hexis SAS, France)

The sensor activated hands-free thermometer support shield or partition 306 is preferably secured to the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support structure 304, but may be integrally footed thereto. A bracket 400, see Figure 47, which secures the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support shield or partition 306, is preferably secured to the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support structure 304. The bracket 400 may include a first portion 402, which engages with and secures the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support shield or partition 306 via screws 404 and nuts 405, and a second portion 406. The bracket first portion 402 secures to the bracket second portion 404 via screws 408, and forms an opening 410 that fits around the perimeter of the shaft inner tube 356. A portable power supply bracket 412 has a surface 414 which attaches to the battery 416 and a hook 418 for securing to the bracket second portion 406, While the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 300 is illustrated being powered by a portable battery 416, with a power cable 420 being plugged into a USB port 422 (see Figure 48) located in the sensor activated thermometer module 302, the sensor activated hands- free thermometer support 300 may be powered by plugging the power cable 420 into a traditional wall outlet 422, using a USB power cord or a·traditional three-prong power plug, see Figure 56. A power ON/OFF switch 424 for powering the sensor activated thermometer module 302 to the "ON" positon or to the "OFF" position may also be included.

Although not specifically described, where capable, features described for the hands-free thermometer support 10 or the sensor activated hands-free thermometer support 200 may be applicable to and used with the sensor activated hands- free thermometer support 300.

It is to be understood that while a certain form of the invention is illustrated, it is not to be limited to the specific form or arrangement herein described and shown. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention and the invention is not to be considered limited to what is shown and described in the specification and any drawings/figures included herein.

One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is well adapted to carry out the objectives and obtain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. The embodiments, methods, procedures and techniques described herein are presently representative of the preferred embodiments, are intended to be exemplary, and are not intended as limitations on the scope. Changes therein and other uses will occur to those skilled in the art which are encompassed within the spirit of the invention and are defined by the scope of the appended claims. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.