Patent ID: 6461037
Filing Date: 2002-10-08
Classification: G01K

Abstract:
A temperature probe for use with a probe cover having a closed distal end and an open proximal end, comprising:a shaft having a distal end for receipt into the probe cover through the probe cover open proximal end and a proximal section; a handle disposed at the proximal section of the shaft such that the shaft extends into the handle for axial movement therein between a fully retracted position and a fully extended position, the handle having a proximal end and a distal end; a retention device located at the distal end of the handle configured to engage the open proximal end of the probe cover and retain it in position on the shaft; a biasing member disposed within the handle and urging the shaft with a force to the extended position, the biasing member providing less force to move the shaft into the extended position than the force that the retention device is providing to retain the probe cover on the shaft; an ejector control having a distal end slidably received in the proximal end of the handle and having a proximal end for use in receiving force that urges the ejector control into the handle, the ejector control being decoupled from the both the shaft and biasing member; and an ejector member connected with the ejector control and extending longitudinally through the handle to exit the handle adjacent the shaft and contact the probe cover at its open proximal end whereby moving the ejector control in a predetermined direction will cause the ejector member to press against the proximal end of the probe cover and displace it from contact with the retention device, whereby the probe cover may be removed from contact with the probe.