초록 ▼

The present invention relates generally to an apparatus for monitoring the occupancy status of a toilet seat. In more particular, it applies to a pressure sensitive switch that can be used in combination with an electronic monitoring device to notify a nearby care-giver or a remote nurse's station t

The present invention relates generally to an apparatus for monitoring the occupancy status of a toilet seat. In more particular, it applies to a pressure sensitive switch that can be used in combination with an electronic monitoring device to notify a nearby care-giver or a remote nurse's station that a patient has raised himself or herself from the toilet. Broadly speaking, the instant device is composed of two elements--a pressure sensitive switch and an actuator--that are installed between the toilet seat and the upper rim of the toilet bowl. Pressure on the toilet seat is communicated via the actuator to the pressure sensitive switch which, when compressed, completes an electrical circuit. When the pressure is removed, the electrical circuit is broken, thereby signaling that the patient has risen from his or her seated position on the toilet.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A pressure sensitive switch for monitoring a patient on a toilet seat, comprising:(a) an upper and a lower conductive member;(b) a central non-conductive spacer, said central non-conductive spacer(b1) being positioned between said upper and said lower conductive members,

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A pressure sensitive switch for monitoring a patient on a toilet seat, comprising:(a) an upper and a lower conductive member;(b) a central non-conductive spacer, said central non-conductive spacer(b1) being positioned between said upper and said lower conductive members, and(b2) having at least one aperture therethrough, each of said at least one apertures having a perimeter;(c) an actuator, said actuator(c1) being positioned so as to contact said upper conductive member within said perimeter of at least one of said at least one apertures when a patient is seated on the toilet seat, and,(c2) urging said upper and lower conductive members into electrical contact when the patient is seated on the toilet seat;(d) a first electrical lead in electrical contact with said upper conductive member; and,(e) a second electrical lead in electrical contact with said lower conductive member, said first and second electrical leads for connecting to a monitor device.