Pressure sensing device and method

Abstract

A pressure sensing device (1000) comprises first and second electrodes (10, 20) spaced from each other by a distance. At least one of the electrodes is formed of / comprises a unitary piece of non-metallic conductive material. The distance is changeable in response to a pressure / force applied to the first and / or second electrode. The device comprises a measurement module (500) connected to the first / second electrode at a plurality of sensing points (S1...). The measurement module is configured to measure a change in capacitance between the first and second electrodes, in response to a change in the distance when a pressure / force is applied to the first and / or second electrode, at each sensing point individually and / or at all sensing points simultaneously. The measurement module is configured to determine the location, area and amount of applied pressure on the first and / or second electrode from the individual measurements, and / or the amount of the applied pressure from the simultaneous measurement.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates generally to pressure sensing devices and in particular, but not exclusively, to devices for determining the location, area and magnitude of pressure exerted by a human touch, body or object on a surface of the device. The invention also relates to methods of operating and manufacturing the device. Background technique [0002] There is an increasing need to embed touch-sensitive and / or pressure-sensitive devices and functions into conventional passive objects and surfaces. Developments in this field will help human-computer interaction seamlessly integrate into everyday life. They also play an important role in acquiring new knowledge in the academic field, collecting useful research data, and driving businesses to explore new insights into consumer behavior. [0003] The ability to continuously monitor, through novel sensing devices, the changing pressure exerted by various parts of the human body on objects with which...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Consequently, a considerable amount of resistive material, sensing points, and printed traces are required to achieve high-resolution pressure mapping, which in turn increases device complexity and fabrication / material cost

[0007] In wearable device and / or seating / bedding applications where surfaces are subject to constant and repetitive movement and stress, devices incorporating complex sensor arrays, conventional printed traces and / or coatings may be prone to breakage and / or disintegration. layer, which could ultimately limit commercialization in industries such as consumer electronics, wearable and healthcare products, and automotive interiors

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