Sensor network

Abstract

The invention relates to a network comprising sensor points (1) forming nodes of the network and elongated connecting elements (2) forming edges of the network, wherein the connecting elements (2) each have an extensible base body (3) on which at least one conductor (4) is present, which extends from one end region of the connecting element (2) in the longitudinal direction of the connecting element to a second end region of the connecting element (2), wherein the conductor (4) is composed of an inextensible material and the conductor (4) has a winding or curved course on the extensible base body (3) such that individual sections of the conductor (4) extend transversely to the longitudinal direction of the respective connecting element (2).

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a flexible sensor network.

[0002] A sensor network consists of several individual sensors that exist at the nodes of the network and are interconnected through the network structure.

[0003] This sensor network can be implemented using conventional sheathed conductors (such as stranded cables) that serve as connections between the network's sensors. The sensors can be flexibly arranged on the surface such that the distance between them can be less than or equal to the length of the stranded cable. A drawback is that if the distance between the sensors is less than the length of the stranded cable, the cable must either extend from the surface or be laid in a tangled path.

[0004] This prior art is known, for example, from CN109341727A, in which the connecting element is designed as an insulated conductor and has a winding path throughout.

[0005] In EP3621088A1, US2017303853A1, US2018249767A1, and WO2017013493A1, flexible connections are used to implement predefined circuits.

[0006] In US2010238636A1 and US2020060558A1, the circuits were entirely molded from flexible materials.

[0007] The fundamental objective of this invention is to create a flexible sensor network that is easy to manufacture and allows individual sensors to be flexibly attached to a surface.

[0008] To accomplish this task, a sensor network as described in claim 1 is proposed, along with the application of the sensor network on an entity and a method for performing measurements using the sensor network.

[0009] Specifically, a two-dimensional network is proposed, comprising sensor points forming network nodes and elongated connecting elements comprising a matrix and conductors, these connecting elements forming edges of the network. The network has at least two edges forming grid lines in each of its two dimensions. The network with sensor points and connecting elements is open in the regions between the edges. At each sensor point, current flow or capacitive coupling can occur from a conductor of a first grid line to a conductor of a second grid line, wherein the first and second grid lines are transverse to each other, and the current flow or capacitive coupling depends on the measured variable at the sensor point. Each connecting element comprises a stretchable matrix, which is presented as a straight strip. At least one conductor is present on the straight strip, extending from one end region of the connecting element along its longitudinal direction to a second end region. The conductor is made of an instretchable material and has a winding or bending orientation on the stretchable matrix, such that each segment of the conductor extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the corresponding connecting element.

[0010] In one embodiment, the sensor network includes a plurality of sensor points and a plurality of stretchable connection elements, each stretchable connection element including at least one conductor, wherein the sensor points are connected to the stretchable connection elements to form a two-dimensional mesh structure.

[0011] Preferably, the sensor network is manufactured by first manufacturing (particularly independently) sensor points and connecting elements, and then connecting the sensor points to form a sensor network by attaching these connecting elements. The finished sensor network can then be attached to an entity.

[0012] In particular, physical entities or physical objects are understood as "entities".

[0013] This network can be applied to the surface of freely shaped, two-dimensional curved parts without requiring pre-adjustment of the connection lengths. Due to its mesh structure, the connecting elements only need to be stretchable in one dimension. Different surfaces can be created using a uniform manufacturing method (linking sensor points). Therefore, standard sensor networks can be integrated into custom parts. Examples include orthotics, prosthetic sockets, ski boots, insoles, or seat shells tailored to specific wearers.

[0014] Preferably, the sensor points have a regular shape. Preferably, the sensor points may have a circular, square, or octagonal perimeter, or be square with rounded or chamfered corners. Preferably, each sensor point has four outer sides, wherein opposite outer sides are preferably oriented parallel to each other. Preferably, the four outer sides are designed to be identical to each other. The sensor points may (particularly in corner areas) have unique markings, or the sensor points may have a unique shape, for example, by chamfering a corner, so that the orientation of the sensor points in the grid arrangement is obvious, particularly to prevent incorrect assembly.

[0015] Preferably, the diameter of the sensor point or the distance between two opposite sides is in the range of 3 mm to 3 cm, and particularly preferably in the range of 5 mm to 2 cm. Preferably, the sensor point is a small-area thin film with an electroactive layer. Preferably, the sensor point changes at least one of its electrical characteristics in a measurable manner when subjected to external impact.

[0016] The sensor points are spaced apart from each other, preferably in several parallel rows.

[0017] Sensor points are connected to corresponding directly adjacent sensor points in the network via extendable connecting elements, which are preferably extendable to at least 125%, particularly at least 150%, and especially preferably 200% of their unextended length, without altering the resistance of the electrical conductors of the connecting elements. The extendability of the connecting elements is preferably in the range of 1.25 to 3 times their unextended length. The substrate of the connecting element is elastically deformable within this range. Therefore, the substrate can elastically deform to at least 1.25 times its unextended length, preferably at least 1.5 times, and especially at least twice.

[0018] In an unstretched network, the distance between sensor points or the length of the connecting element between two sensor points is preferably between 1 cm and 4 cm, particularly between 1.5 cm and 3 cm. Due to the stretchability of the connecting element, the distance between sensor points can be significantly higher when applied to an entity, with sensor points having distances ranging from 1 cm (unstretched "1 cm" connecting element) to 12 cm (e.g., three times the stretchable "4 cm" connecting element when fully stretched).

[0019] The resulting network is preferably attached to a freely shaped surface of an entity (in the sense of an object). Preferably, the sensor points and connecting elements are attached to the entity in a flat manner, particularly glued to the entity, or integrated into the layered structure of the entity. When external influences are applied to the entity, the sensor points change at least one electrical property in a measurable manner. Depending on the size and shape of the surface of the entity to be covered, different numbers of sensor points can be provided and linked into a network structure.

[0020] To enable the network to be bonded, the network preferably includes an adhesive layer. Preferably, the adhesive layer is present on one side of the sensor points and on one side of the connecting elements. In another embodiment, only the sensor points are provided with an adhesive layer. In yet another embodiment, only the connecting elements are provided with an adhesive layer.

[0021] In another embodiment, the sensor point and / or connecting element are provided with an adhesive layer on both sides.

[0022] In one embodiment, a peelable release film is present on the adhesive layer.

[0023] Preferably, the entity has a surface that is curved in two dimensions. The entity is preferably an object or part of an object, and is not, but may be, but less preferably, the body or body part of a person or animal. However, the entity can be, for example, a tree, particularly a tree trunk.

[0024] Preferably, the entity comprises plastic, foam, or wood, or is made entirely of one or more of these materials.

[0025] In one embodiment, the entity in the form of an object has recesses for sensor points. In another embodiment, the entity in the form of an object has recesses for connecting elements. In yet another embodiment, the entity has recesses for both sensor points and connecting elements. Preferably, the surface of the raised portion of the entity surrounding the recess is flat, wherein the sensor points and / or connecting elements are inserted into the recesses. Preferably, the recesses for sensor points are spaced apart from each other by a distance greater than the unextended length of the connecting elements of the sensor network. In other words, the connecting elements exist in an extended state on the entity, particularly in the recesses of the entity.

[0026] An entity with a sensor network is manufactured by first providing an entity with a recess and then placing the sensor network in the recess.

[0027] The corresponding use of this sensor network is that the entity is an object, wherein in a first step, the object is created to have recesses or is configured to have recesses, wherein after the first step, there are recesses on the object that are the size of the individual sensor points, these recesses are spaced apart from each other, these recesses determine the position of the sensor points, and wherein, subsequently in a second step, the network is placed on the entity, wherein the sensor points of the network are thus arranged in the recesses of the entity.

[0028] Preferably, in the first step, the entity is created or configured to have additional recesses of the size of connecting elements, the additional recesses for connecting elements connecting to recesses for sensor points, and then, in the second step, the network is placed on the entity, wherein the sensor points of the network are arranged in the recesses for sensor points, and the connecting elements are arranged in the additional recesses for connecting elements.

[0029] Preferably, the plurality of distances, each existing between two sensor points and defined by the recess, are longer than the unextended length of the corresponding connecting element extending between the respective two sensor points. In other words, the arrangement of the recesses on the entity deviates from the unextended shape of the sensor network, thus the sensor network can only be placed in the recesses on the entity by extending several connecting elements. Preferably, the entity has a grid-like structure of recesses, wherein the grid-like structure is irregular, i.e., the lengths of the edges of the grid-like structure are different. Preferably, the unextended sensor network presents as a regular grid, i.e., all edges of the network have the same length. The edges of the network are defined as the connections between two nodes of the network.

[0030] In one embodiment, a protective layer is applied over the sensor network to secure the sensor network to the entity and / or provide desired surface properties.

[0031] Surface characteristics may include, for example, material type, roughness, and absorption capacity. A protective layer may be applied over a sensor network present in raised locations on a solid. A protective layer may be applied over a sensor network present in recesses on a solid. The protective layer may be applied as a fabric, a film, or by curing a film-forming liquid. In one embodiment, the protective layer covers the network's connecting elements and open spaces, where sensor points are exposed or at least a region of a corresponding sensor point is exposed.

[0032] In one embodiment, the carrier material for the sensor points can be a stretchable material in two dimensions. In another embodiment, the carrier material is not stretchable.

[0033] Preferably, the sensor network is embedded in the force-transmitting top layer (e.g., in a soft varnish or in an adhesive textile layer). The overlay can be applied before or after attachment to the entity. The overlay can face or face away from the entity.

[0034] Preferably, the sensor network is bonded to the surface of the entity.

[0035] In one embodiment, the sensor network can be detached from the entity after use. The entity is preferably deformable (inherently soft or thermoplastic).

[0036] Preferably, the two-dimensional grid structure is a rectangular, particularly square, grid.

[0037] Preferably, the mesh of the network is arranged according to the pathways in the entity. This ensures that air or liquid can pass through the entity and the sensor network.

[0038] Preferably, before attaching the sensor network, markings are made at defined points on the entity to which the sensor points will be attached during the attachment process. In this way, the position of each sensor is predetermined.

[0039] In a preferred application of a sensor network attached to a physical surface, external impacts on the physical entity are detected by measuring the electrical characteristics of each sensor point in the network and then linking the measurements to known locations of the sensors on the entity. For this purpose, preferably, the shape of the entity and the locations marked on the entity are recorded in a virtual 3D model of the entity, and the measurements of the sensor points are linked to the location data of the 3D model. For example, pressure loads at defined points on the entity can be recorded in this way.

[0040] Preferably, the measured values ​​of the sensor points are displayed on the virtual 3D object of the entity according to color codes (e.g., green-yellow-red codes).

[0041] Preferably, a video is created based on a large number of repetitive measurements, thereby representing the changes in sensor point measurements over time on a virtual 3D object.

[0042] Preferably, many such measurements are stored in a database and used for analysis (e.g., gait analysis when sensors are placed in shoes or prostheses).

[0043] In one embodiment, measurements are displayed on a physical entity by projecting a representative representation, such as a color scale or brightness value, onto the location of the corresponding sensor. In another embodiment, LEDs corresponding to the arrangement of sensor points on the entity may be present, and these LEDs are driven to represent the measurements of the sensor points. The attachment of the LEDs can be accomplished through an additional network or otherwise.

[0044] Preferably, measurement results are obtained and stored from a network of many sensors on different entities and used for further analysis (e.g., to assess the characteristics of different types of entities or the impact on entities in different environments).

[0045] This invention includes a method for performing measurements on an entity, wherein:

[0046] - In the first step, a digital model of the entity is created.

[0047] - In the second step, the locations of the measurement points are set in the digital model.

[0048] - In the third step, a sensor network, including sensor points and extendable connecting elements between the sensor points, is attached to a real entity, with the sensor points on the real entity positioned at the locations of the measurement points in the digital model.

[0049] - In the fourth step, at least one measurement of the measured value is performed at the sensor point.

[0050] This invention includes a method for performing measurements on an entity, wherein:

[0051] - In the first step, the entity is created with labels for measurement points, or the entity is set to have labels for measurement points.

[0052] - In the second step, a sensor network, including sensor points and extendable connecting elements between the sensor points, is attached to the entity. The sensor points are arranged at the locations marked on the entity for measurement points.

[0053] - In the third step, at least one measurement of the measured value is performed at the sensor point.

[0054] When creating entities, entities are understood as objects. Generally, if a tag is provided for one entity, it is also possible to provide tags for multiple entities.

[0055] The two methods can be advantageously combined by performing the first step of the second method (providing markings corresponding to digital measurement points on the real entity) before the third step of the first method.

[0056] In both approaches, a two-dimensional sensor network is used to perform measurements on an entity. This network comprises sensor points as nodes and stretchable connecting elements as edges between the sensor points. The network has at least two edges in each of its two dimensions, forming a grid of lines. The network with sensor points and connecting elements is open in the regions between the edges. The stretchable connecting elements include a stretchable substrate and a conductor. The sensor network is attached to the real entity as each connecting element stretches individually, with the sensor points on the real entity positioned at the locations of measurement points in the digital model and / or at the locations of markers on the entity.

[0057] In preferred embodiments of these methods, measurements at sensor points are linked via software to measurement points in a digital model. Specifically, the actual measurements are displayed in real time at the location of the measurement point in the digital model and / or stored in the digital model of the measurement point in a time-series manner. For this purpose, the measurement values, the timestamp or time of the measurement, and the location data of the measurement point in the digital model or on the physical entity are stored in a database.

[0058] Preferably, the location data of the real entity in space and / or the motion sequence of the real entity in space are also recorded. This is accomplished, for example, by video recording, by an indoor location detector, or by an additional motion sensor on the entity. Preferably, by including such data, the actual measurement value at the location of the measurement point is displayed in real time in the digital motion model, and / or the actual measurement value is stored in the digital motion model in a manner that the measurement point is in progress over time. For this purpose, the measurement value, the timestamp or time of the measurement, the location data of the measurement point in the digital model or on the entity, and the current absolute and / or relative position of the corresponding measurement point in space are stored in a database.

[0059] The measured value at the corresponding sensor point depends on the parameter to be measured. Therefore, the measured parameter causes a change in at least one electrical property of the sensitive material or sensitive element at the sensor point.

[0060] When external influences are applied to an entity, the electrical properties of the electroactive layer or sensitive element may change as a change in resistance, piezoresistive, piezoelectric or capacitive properties, or an impedance change.

[0061] The sensitive element can also be a thermocouple, a chemical sensor, or a photosensitive element (such as a photoresistor or a photodiode).

[0062] Preferably, the interconnection of sensor points in the network is accomplished by interconnecting passive or active matrices.

[0063] Preferably, sensor signals from the network are captured by collecting elements located on adjacent, laterally opposite sides of the network. Each collecting element extends along one dimension of the two-dimensional network. Preferably, the collecting element includes at least one collecting conductor for each row of sensor points present along that dimension, the at least one collecting conductor being oriented laterally to that dimension. Preferably, the collecting element is implemented according to connecting elements, wherein the collecting element includes a stretchable substrate in which a plurality of electrical conductors made of an instretchable material are integrated in a winding path.

[0064] Preferably, the collecting element leads to an electronic device that digitizes the measurement signal. The electronic device is preferably also attached to the physical entity. The electronic device can be connected to the data processing system via cable or wireless data transmission equipment.

[0065] Preferably, the network structure is regular, such that each element or mesh of the network, surrounded by four connecting elements, has the same shape and size in the unstretched state.

[0066] Preferably, all connecting elements of the network, each connecting two sensor points and arranged parallel to each other, have the same unstretched length.

[0067] Preferably, all connecting elements of the network that each connects two sensor points have the same unstretched length.

[0068] Each stretchable connecting element comprises a stretchable substrate and at least one (preferably exactly one) conductor of an instretchable material, wherein the conductor does not extend along the substrate in a straight path, such that the length of the conductor is longer than the length of the connecting element. Preferably, the conductor is non-redundant, such that it provides exactly one conductive path along the connecting element.

[0069] Preferably, the length of the conductor on a segment of the substrate is 1.25 to 4 times longer than the unstretched length of the substrate, particularly 1.5 to 3 times, and more preferably at least 2 times longer.

[0070] In one embodiment, the connecting element is manufactured by integrating at least one elongated, non-stretchable metal body into a stretched, stretchable layer, the metal body being folded or bent to extend after the layer is relaxed.

[0071] In one embodiment, the connecting element is manufactured by integrating at least one folded or zigzag-extended non-stretchable metal body into an unstretched stretchable layer.

[0072] Through these two embodiments, a stretchable and conductive connecting element is obtained. During stretching, the conductivity of the connecting element does not change because the length and cross-section of the metal body remain constant (only the angle between the folded or zigzagged segments of the metal body changes).

[0073] In one embodiment, the conductor is in the form of a spiral.

[0074] In one embodiment, the conductor is zigzag-shaped.

[0075] In one embodiment, the conductor exhibits a zigzag pattern.

[0076] In one embodiment, the conductor exhibits a sinusoidal shape.

[0077] Preferably, the conductor is encapsulated within a substrate, with connection points located at both ends of the stretchable connecting element. Preferably, the conductor is situated between two film layers of the substrate.

[0078] Preferably, the substrate is a plastic film. The plastic is preferably an elastomer.

[0079] Preferably, the connecting element is in the form of a flat element, wherein the surface of the connecting element lies in the plane of the surface of the sensor point. Preferably, the connecting element is rectangular, wherein the long side of the rectangle forms the edge of the network and the conductor extends along the longitudinal direction of the rectangle.

[0080] Sensor points or sensors can be of various types, and sensors can have the preferred features described herein. Different sensors can also be attached to a sensor network.

[0081] Each sensor point has at least one sensing element, wherein at least one electrical characteristic of the sensing element (e.g., ohmic resistance) depends on the quantity being measured.

[0082] The sensitive element is located between two contacts of the sensor point. One of these contacts is connected to a connecting element of the first grid line of the network, and the second contact is connected to a connecting element of the second grid line of the network. These two grid lines are transverse to each other and intersect at the sensor point.

[0083] In one embodiment, a diode is present at at least one sensor point, connected in series with the sensitive element of that sensor point. This allows the sensor point to be selectively oriented. Diodes arranged in the same direction at each sensor point prevent current from flowing in an unwanted direction in the network, thereby preventing so-called crosstalk between sensor points.

[0084] In one embodiment, a transistor is present at at least one sensor point, connected in series with the sensing element of the sensor point, thereby providing an additional control line at the control input of the transistor. For the control line of the transistor, an additional conductor is present at a connection element connected to the sensor point, or an additional connection element is present for the control line itself. Therefore, by switching the transistor to be conductive or non-conductive, the sensor point can be individually controlled via the control line of the transistor.

[0085] In one embodiment, the sensor point has a planar or two-dimensional structure, whereby current flow or capacitive coupling occurs in a plane. This means that the elements of the sensor point exist in the plane of the carrier material or on the plane of the carrier material of the sensor point in the form of conductor traces (Leiterbahn), sensing elements, and optionally diodes or transistors, and current flow or capacitive coupling also occurs in this plane. An example of such a structure is a sensor in the form of finger electrodes (comb electrodes coupled together in a plane).

[0086] In one embodiment, the sensor point has a sandwich structure in which a sensitive element or material is located between two electrodes, the planar extensions of which are parallel to the plane of the network, and the current flow or capacitive coupling between the electrodes is perpendicular to the plane of the network through the sensitive material. Thus, the electrodes representing conductor traces are located in parallel planes spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the sensor point. This embodiment, in which current flows in several planes parallel to the surface of the sensor point and the current flow or capacitive coupling is perpendicular between these planes, is referred to herein as the three-dimensional structure of the sensor point.

[0087] In this embodiment, a first conductor line or connection point is present at the first electrode, and a second connection point is present at the second electrode. Connecting elements of the first grid line of the network are connected to the first electrode, and connecting elements of the second grid line of the network are connected to the second electrode, such that the two grid lines are transverse to each other and intersect at the sensor point. Connecting elements are connected to the flat, opposite sides of the sensor point.

[0088] For the sensor points, preferably, these sensor points have four connection points to which connecting elements can be electrically attached. Preferably, the first pair of connection points is located on a line oriented parallel to a first dimension of the network. Preferably, the second pair of connection points is located on a line oriented parallel to a second dimension of the network.

[0089] Preferably, a corresponding pair of connection points are connected at the sensor point by an electrical conductor or an uninterrupted conductor path.

[0090] Preferably, all connection points placed along the grid lines of the network are electrically connected via connecting elements.

[0091] In one embodiment, the sensor point comprises a non-conductive carrier material on which at least one conductor trace exists.

[0092] Conductor traces are formed by applying a conductive material to the carrier material.

[0093] Preferably, the sensor comprises a non-conductive carrier material that can be penetrated by the environmental medium. Preferably, the carrier material exists in the form of a sheet-like layer (e.g., in the form of a plate or strip).

[0094] A permeable carrier material is understood to be a carrier material having an opening extending from one side of the carrier material to the other.

[0095] The permeable carrier material can be a membrane, fabric, nonwoven fabric, fiber pad, or open-cell foam or sponge. The material can first be manufactured as a dense layer and then perforated to become a permeable carrier material. For example, a membrane can be perforated to become a permeable carrier material.

[0096] Specifically, the permeable carrier material can be formed from paper, fabric, glass fiber, mineral fiber, or non-conductive plastic.

[0097] Preferably, the permeable carrier material remains permeable in the region of the conductor trace, meaning that the conductive material does not close the openings in the permeable carrier material.

[0098] The conductive material is present on at least one side of the carrier material.

[0099] Preferably, the conductive material in the region of the conductor trace completely encapsulates the material of the carrier material. This means that the material of the conductor trace exists on both sides of the carrier material, with the materials of the conductor traces on both sides in contact with each other through openings in the carrier material.

[0100] In other words, preferably, the material of the conductor trace completely encloses the material of the carrier material present between two adjacent openings in the carrier material. Preferably, the openings of the carrier material remain open in the region of the conductor trace and are not closed by the material of the conductor trace.

[0101] The network's sensors can be used to measure temperature, density changes, mechanical deformation (pressure, strain, compression, bending), chemical state changes (e.g., adhesive curing), humidity, liquid infiltration, pH, biological growth processes, biomolecule concentration, damage, and breakage.

[0102] Conductive traces on the contact carrier material can be achieved by directly soldering electrical leads to the conductor traces. Terminals can be placed on both sides of the carrier material along the conductor traces. Conductive material can be glued to the conductor traces.

[0103] The carrier material and / or conductor traces may be provided with a reactive surface to enable the measurement of, for example, pH or light.

[0104] By using two independent electrodes (whose conductor traces are arranged in an interlaced or combined comb-like structure), changes in the electrical properties of the surrounding medium or the carrier material in the space between the comb-like structures can be detected with high sensitivity.

[0105] Temperature changes and / or strain can be measured using a single conductor or a single conductor trace with contact points at both ends.

[0106] A thermocouple can be constructed from two intersecting conductive paths made of different metals (e.g., nickel-chromium / nickel (K-type)). This takes advantage of the thermoelectric effect that occurs at the contact surface between two conductors made of different metals.

[0107] Preferably, the maximum thickness of the carrier material is 2000 micrometers, particularly preferably 500 micrometers, and especially preferably 50 micrometers.

[0108] Preferably, the carrier material has a porosity of at least 10%, more preferably at least 50%, and particularly at least 75%.

[0109] Preferably, the carrier material has an average pore size of at least 1 micrometer, more preferably at least 10 micrometers, and especially at least 100 micrometers.

[0110] Preferably, the average porosity of the sensor points in the region of the conductor trace or conductive material is at least half the porosity of the carrier material.

[0111] Preferably, the average aperture of the sensor point in the region of the conductor trace or conductive material is at least half the aperture of the carrier material.

[0112] Preferably, the material of the conductor trace is a conductive metal, particularly aluminum, copper, silver, or gold, with copper being especially preferred. Alternatively, carbon black and conductive polymers can be used.

[0113] Preferably, the material of the conductor trace is present in a layer thickness of up to 30% of the average aperture, particularly preferably in a layer thickness of up to 10% of the average aperture, and especially in a layer thickness of up to 1% of the average aperture.

[0114] In one embodiment, the porosity can be selected such that the sensor appears largely transparent and thus blends well into a visually appealing environment.

[0115] Preferably, the average transmittance of the sensor points is at least 10%, particularly at least 20%, especially preferably at least 50%, and most preferably at least 75%.

[0116] Preferably, high transmittance is achieved through porosity, which means that the carrier material (e.g., fiber) is opaque and / or the material of the conductor trace is opaque.

[0117] In one embodiment, the porosity of a carrier material already provided with conductive material or the porosity of sensor points already provided with conductor traces can be increased by perforating them. Perforation can be performed mechanically, by laser, or by electroporation. Such perforation can be performed in the region of the conductor traces and / or in the region between the conductor traces.

[0118] This invention is illustrated by the following figures:

[0119] Figure 1 An embodiment of a sensor point with two connecting elements is illustrated schematically.

[0120] Figure 2 This schematically illustrates how several sensor points are connected to form a network via connecting elements.

[0121] Figure 3 An exemplary use of sensor networks on an entity is shown.

[0122] Figure 4 An embodiment with a sensor point having a diode is shown.

[0123] Figure 5An embodiment of a sensor point with a transistor is shown.

[0124] Figure 6 A second embodiment of a sensor point with a transistor is shown.

[0125] Figure 7 An embodiment of a sensor point with an addressable switch is shown.

[0126] Figure 8 A network with an active matrix circuit is shown.

[0127] Figure 9 A network with addressable sensor points is shown.

[0128] Figure 10 The sensor point with electrodes is shown in a sandwich structure.

[0129] Figure 11 An embodiment with finger electrodes is shown.

[0130] Figure 12 An embodiment of the sensor point and connecting element is shown.

[0131] Figure 13 A first embodiment of a connecting element in the form of a connecting line is shown.

[0132] Figure 14 A second embodiment of the connecting line is shown.

[0133] Figure 15 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the connecting element.

[0134] Figure 16 An embodiment of the connecting line is shown.

[0135] Figure 17 Another embodiment of the connecting line is shown.

[0136] Figure 18 Another embodiment of the connecting line is shown.

[0137] The embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative of possible embodiments. It should be noted that the invention is not limited to these specifically shown embodiments, but rather combinations of the various embodiments with each other and combinations of the embodiments with the foregoing general description are also possible. These other possible combinations need not be explicitly mentioned, as they are within the skill of those skilled in the art based on the technical teachings of this invention.

[0138] Figure 1 The basic structure of sensor point 1 and connecting element 2 is illustrated by an example.

[0139] The connecting element 2 includes a stretchable substrate 3. A non-stretchable metallic conductor 4 is present on or within the stretchable substrate 3. The conductor 4 extends in a meandering or curved manner, such that individual segments of the conductor 4 extend transversely to or not parallel to the longitudinal direction of the connecting element 2. When the length of the substrate 3 changes, the angles of the individual segments of the conductor 4 relative to the longitudinal direction change, but the cross-section and length of the conductor 4 remain unchanged. Therefore, when the length of the substrate 3 changes, the resistance of the conductor 4 remains constant.

[0140] The conductor 4 can be in contact at both ends of the connecting element 2. For this purpose, the conductor 4 itself can be exposed on the substrate 3 or protrude beyond the substrate 3 in the longitudinal direction. Between the contact points at both ends of the connecting element 2, the conductor 4 is preferably insulated because the conductor 4 itself is insulating, or in particular, the conductor 4 is preferably embedded in the substrate 3. For example, the conductor 4 can exist in the form of a film between two layers of the substrate 3.

[0141] Conductor 4 is preferably a single strand, but may also include several strands. The material of conductor 4 is preferably copper. Preferably, conductor 4 is twisted into a spiral shape and flattened. The spiral shape is flattened or formed into a two-dimensional shape. Alternatively, conductor 4 can be formed into a tortuous or bent, extended or meandering two-dimensional shape by bending or folding.

[0142] Then, the two-dimensional structure of the formed conductor 4 can be stretched and applied to the stretched substrate 3 in the stretched state. Alternatively, the two-dimensional structure can be applied to the unstretched substrate 3 in an unstretched or compressed state.

[0143] One or two contact points on the connecting element 2 can exist as connection points 5, which are in the form of a two-dimensional surface on the substrate 3, with both dimensions exceeding the thickness of the conductor 4. This facilitates contact, especially welding.

[0144] Sensor point 1 has a carrier material 6, and at least one conductor trace 7 extends on the carrier material 6.

[0145] In the case of only one conductor trace 7, the conductor trace 7 itself is the sensitive element of the sensor point 1. One end of the conductor trace contacts the connecting element 2 extending away from the sensor point 1 in a first direction, and the second end of the conductor trace contacts the connecting element 2 extending away from the sensor point 1 in a second direction. The first direction and the second direction are transverse to each other, in particular at a 90-degree angle.

[0146] However, preferably, at least two non-contacting conductor traces 7, 8 extend along the sensor point 1. A sensitive material or sensitive element is present between the conductor traces 7, 8, which allows current to flow from the first conductor trace 7 to the second conductor trace 8, or enables capacitive coupling between the conductor traces 7 and 8, depending on the input variable of an external action.

[0147] The first conductor trace 7 contacts one connecting element 2 extending along the first direction. Alternatively, the first conductor trace 7 contacts two connecting elements 2 extending along the first direction. The second conductor trace 8 contacts a connecting element 2 extending along the second direction. Alternatively, the second conductor trace 8 contacts two connecting elements 2 extending along the second direction. The first and second directions are transverse to each other, specifically forming a 90-degree angle.

[0148] Preferably, sensor point 1 has at least one connection point 9 for each of the two directions, the connection point 9 existing on the carrier material 6 in the form of a two-dimensional surface, with both dimensions of the connection point 9 exceeding the width of the conductor trace 7. In one embodiment, there are two connection points 9 for each of the two directions.

[0149] Preferably, each connection point 9 is centered on the corresponding side of the carrier material 6.

[0150] Connection point 9 can be located on carrier material 6, or it can exist as an additional element adjacent to carrier material 6, as shown in the figure.

[0151] exist Figure 1 In this embodiment, the sensitive element of sensor point 1 is the carrier material 6 itself, which exists between conductor traces 7 and 8. The comb-like structure of the interlaced conductor traces 7 and 8 improves sensitivity. Connection points 5 and 9, which are horizontally aligned on a line, are directly connected via conductor trace 8 and conductor 4 of connecting element 2, resulting in the same potential at these connection points. Connection points 5 and 9, which are vertically aligned on a line, are directly connected via conductor trace 7 and conductor 4 of connecting element 2, resulting in the same potential at these connection points.

[0152] When a voltage is applied to one of the two conductor traces 7 and 8, a current is generated flowing through the carrier material 6 to the other conductor trace 7 and 8, such that the voltage at the second conductor trace of the two conductor traces 7 and 8 is a measure of the amount (e.g., moisture) acting on the carrier material 6.

[0153] Figure 2 The diagram illustrates how several sensor points 1 and connecting elements 2 can be arranged to form a network, and how the measurement circuitry for this network can be implemented.

[0154] Sensor points 1 form the nodes of the network, and these nodes are connected by connecting elements 2 (edges of the network) in straight paths. Four connecting elements 2 form meshes, and the network is open in the space inside the meshes.

[0155] The network has grid lines extending in two directions transverse to each other.

[0156] All sensor points 1 existing on the grid lines are connected along the grid lines via connecting elements 2. The grid lines are connected to the electronic evaluation unit 12 via collecting elements 10 and 11, whereby each grid line has a collecting conductor extending from the corresponding grid line to the electronic evaluation unit 12 on one of the collecting elements 10 and 11 (in the case of a passive matrix).

[0157] Preferably, the collecting conductors of collecting elements 10 and 11 are designed according to the conductor 4 of connecting element 2. Preferably, the substrate of collecting elements 10 and 11 is designed according to the substrate 3 of connecting element 2.

[0158] During the measurement process, electrical energy, voltage, or signal is always applied to the other collecting conductor after one collecting conductor of the first collecting element 10, so that only one grid line in the first direction of the network is always switched to active. The other grid line in the same direction is preferably grounded (GND). The collecting conductor of the second collecting element 11 transmits the measurement signal of sensor point 1 (located at the intersection of the grid line of the second collecting element 11 and the active grid line in the first direction).

[0159] Figure 3 The attachment of the sensor network to entity 13 is shown. The position of sensor point 1 on entity 13 is predetermined and preferably marked on entity 13.

[0160] By extending the connecting element 2, the network can accommodate different distances between parallel grid lines (especially rows and columns).

[0161] Furthermore, during the measurement, the entity itself can stretch and deform without affecting the measurement results due to changes in the length of conductor 4, nor will the network be damaged due to the breakage of conductor 4.

[0162] Figure 3 Entity 13 is, for example, clothing or support elements made of plastic and / or fabric that can be attached to parts of a human or animal's body.

[0163] Figure 4Sensor point 1 is shown, comprising a sensitive element 14, for example, in the form of an ohmic resistance that varies depending on the measured variable, and a diode 15 connected in series with the sensitive element 14. Current can flow in a forward direction from conductor trace 8 to conductor trace 7 via the sensitive element 14 and the diode 15. Conversely, current flowing from conductor trace 7 to conductor trace 8 is blocked by the diode 15. In one embodiment, each sensor point 1 of the network includes a diode 15 that prevents current from flowing from a grid line in a first direction to a grid line in a second direction.

[0164] Figure 5 Sensor point 1 is shown, comprising, for example, a sensitive element 14 in the form of an ohmic resistance that varies depending on the measured variable, and a transistor 16 connected in series with the sensitive element 14. For example, when using an npn transistor, current can flow from conductor trace 8 to conductor trace 7 via transistor 16 if a voltage is present at its base or switching input. Generally, in this embodiment, any type of transistor 16 is attached to sensor point 1 so that the current path between the laterally connected elements 2 is switchable at the sensor point. When Figure 5 When the sensor points 1 are arranged to form a network, each transistor 16 can be provided with its own control line so that each individual sensor point can be switched individually.

[0165] exist Figure 6 In one embodiment, the connection point of the control line exists at sensor point 1 on two opposite sides of sensor point 1 so that the control line of the sensor point can be connected along the grid line.

[0166] exist Figure 7 In this configuration, addressable switch 22 is connected to the sensor point. In this case, the control line is a digital data line. This allows each individual sensor point 1 to be switched individually, even though they are on a common control line.

[0167] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, conductor 4 for the control line and conductor 4 for one of the conductor traces 7 and 8 can exist on a common connecting element 2.

[0168] like Figure 7 As shown, for the control line, an independent connecting element 2 with a single conductor 4 can be connected to the sensor point 1.

[0169] Figure 8A network of sensor points 1 with transistor 16 is shown. The control lines of the sensor points are interconnected along the grid lines of the network in a first direction. The conductor traces 7 and 8 of the sensor points 1 connected in this first direction can all be at a common potential or a common conductor, because the switching of the individual grid lines by the transistor 16 via their common control lines during the measurement process is performed by actively switching the control lines one after another during the measurement process.

[0170] Figure 9 A network of sensor points 1 with addressable switches 22 is shown. Control lines of all sensor points 1 are interconnected, which is achieved by connecting elements 2 along the grid lines in a first direction of the network, where these connecting elements 2 can all be connected to a common collection conductor. Therefore, the sensor points are presented as a bus with a bus topology.

[0171] The traces of sensor points connected in the common direction of the network can all be at a common potential or at a common collecting conductor, because the switching of individual sensor points during the measurement process can be accomplished via the bus through their addresses.

[0172] exist Figure 10 The diagram schematically illustrates a sensor point 1 with a sandwich structure. Sensor point 1 has a first electrode 17 corresponding to the first conductor trace 7 of the aforementioned embodiment and a second electrode 18 corresponding to the second conductor trace 8 of the aforementioned embodiment. Electrodes 17 and 18 each have a two-dimensional planar structure extending in or parallel to the plane of the network. Electrodes 17 and 18 may extend across the entire surface of sensor point 1 or only on a portion of the surface. Between electrodes 17 and 18, a sensitive element 14 or sensitive material is present, which changes at least one electrical characteristic according to the measured variable.

[0173] The interconnections in the network are achieved as follows: each of the first electrodes 17 is connected along a grid line in a first direction via a connecting element 2, and each of the second electrodes 18 is connected along a grid line in a second direction via a connecting element 2, these two directions being transverse to each other, and in particular, perpendicular to each other. Advantageously, the conductor traces 7, 8 or the electrodes 17, 18 are located in different planes. Otherwise, if the intersections of the conductor traces 7, 8 of the sensor are in one plane, such as in... Figure 1 In the right corner area of ​​sensor point 1, there must be an insulating intermediate layer between conductor traces 7 and 8 at that point. Figure 10 Sensor point 1 has a "three-dimensional" structure.

[0174] Figure 11 It shows Figure 1In a modified embodiment, the crossing of conductor traces 7 and 8 at the "two-dimensional" sensor point 1 is avoided. This is achieved by wiring one conductor trace 8 from the outside around the connection point 9 of the other conductor trace 7. Thus, conductor trace 7 has an internal connection point 19. When the connecting element 2 is attached to the internal connection point 19, the conductor 4 of the connecting element 2 crosses the conductor trace 8, wherein the electrically insulating substrate 3 of the connecting element 2 exists between the conductor 4 and the conductor trace 8.

[0175] Figure 12 A kit system for a sensor network is shown, comprising sensor points 1 and connecting elements 2. The sensor points 1 have four connection points 9, and the connecting elements 2 have connection options, particularly connection points 5 at both ends. Preferably, each of the four connection points 9 is centrally located along one of the four sides of the sensor point 1. The connection possibilities of the connecting elements 2, or the connection points 5, can be configured such that the conductor 4 of the connecting element 2 is exposed, or alternatively, the connection points 5 are electrically connected to the conductor 4 (both variations are shown). By attaching the free conductor ends of the connecting elements 2, or the connection points 5, to the connection points 9 of the sensor points 1, any number of sensor points 1 and connecting elements 2 can be arranged along rows and columns (in a first direction and a second direction transverse to each other's grid lines) to form a network.

[0176] exist Figure 13 Another embodiment of the connecting element 2 is shown, which extends along the entire grid line of the network in the form of a connecting line 20. Figure 13 In the example, multiple conductors 4 are arranged on the base 3 of each connecting line 20, wherein the longitudinal direction of the conductors 4 is arranged in the longitudinal direction of the base 3 and there is space between the conductors 4 along the longitudinal direction. Connection facilities or connection points 5 are provided at the two end portions of each conductor 4. As shown, sensor points 1 can be arranged at the intersections, T-points, and corners of each connecting line 20 in the first direction and each connecting line 20 in the second direction transverse to the first direction. Therefore, the intersections of the connecting lines 20 after sensor point 1 are formed by the base 3. After the network has been formed, the base 3 of the connecting lines 20 existing between the two connection points 9 of sensor point 1 can be optionally removed.

[0177] Figure 14 Another embodiment of the connecting element 2 is shown, which extends along the entire grid line of the network in the form of a connecting line 20. Figure 9Unlike other connection elements 2, these connecting elements 2 have continuous conductors 4, allowing current to flow along the corresponding grid lines through conductors 4. Connection possibilities are provided along the connecting lines 20 at intervals, where conductors 4 or connection points 5 electrically connected to conductors 4 are exposed for contact. In this case, it is sufficient for sensor point 1 to have only one connection possibility or one connection point 9 per grid direction. The connection of sensor point 1 along each grid line is achieved through conductors 4, which extend behind or in front of the surface of sensor point 1 and are electrically insulated from sensor point 1 by the substrate 3.

[0178] The connecting element 2, in the form of a connecting line 20, is also particularly suitable for three-dimensional sensor points or sensor points with sandwich structures, such as... Figure 10 As shown, the connecting line 20 of the two grid directions exists in different planes, and therefore crosses the sensor point 1 on the opposite surface of the sensor point 1.

[0179] exist Figures 15a to 15d The image shows a possible embodiment of a connecting element 2 for connecting two sensor points 1 to each other, viewed from the front and from above. As shown, a conductor 4 may exist between two layers of the substrate 3, preferably made of the same material (particularly an elastomer). Figure 15a As shown, the first layer can be longer than the second layer, and conductor 4 is exposed on both sides of the second layer on the first layer.

[0180] like Figure 15b As shown, the first and second layers can be of equal length, and conductor 4 protrudes on both sides between the layers.

[0181] like Figure 15c As shown, in Figure 15a In the modified form, conductive material can exist as a connecting element or connection point 5 at the free end of conductor 4.

[0182] like Figure 15d As shown, conductor 4 can be encapsulated on all sides between the two layers of substrate 3, and an opening 21 is provided at each end region of connecting element 2 in the planar region of at least one layer.

[0183] Figure 16 It shows ( Figure 13 (In one embodiment) a possible embodiment of the connecting wire 20, wherein strips of insulating material are applied to a portion of each individual conductor 4, with both ends of each individual conductor 4 exposed on either side of the strip. The strips are preferably in the form of an elastomeric film in the same manner as the continuous substrate 3 of the connecting wire 20.

[0184] Figure 17 It shows ( Figure 14(An embodiment of the connecting wire 20) In a possible embodiment, strips of insulating material are attached to each of several partial regions of a single conductor 4, wherein the strips are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 3 and the single conductor 4 is exposed between the strips. The strips are preferably present as an elastomeric film in the same manner as the continuous substrate 3 of the connecting wire 20.

[0185] Figure 18 It shows ( Figure 14 (In one embodiment) a possible embodiment of the connecting line 20, wherein a single conductor 4 exists between two layers of the substrate 3, or between two elastomeric films. At least one of the layers is provided with a plurality of openings 21 spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the connecting line 20, and the single conductor 4 is exposed in the region of the opening 21.

[0186] Connecting element or connection point 5 may exist Figures 16 to 18 The free end or section of conductor 4 or its replacement Figures 16 to 18 The free end or section of conductor 4. For example, opening 21 can be closed or cast with conductive material.

[0187] For the machine manufacturing of connector 2, continuous webs or unfolded strips of substrate 3 can be transported through a machine that positions the two-dimensionally deformed conductor 4 continuously or segmentally on substrate 3, wherein a second layer of substrate is positioned continuously or in strips on conductor 4. Therefore, the two-dimensional deformation of conductor 4 can be performed in the machine, or conductor 4 can be fed into the machine in a two-dimensionally deformed state.

[0188] Optionally, the machine can attach the connection point 5 in the connection area of ​​the continuous web.

[0189] The two layers of the matrix material can be joined by gluing, welding or pressing.

[0190] At the machine's output, a loop or elongated strip of connecting cable is obtained (especially according to...). Figures 16 to 18 (One of them), from which the required length of the annular strip connecting line 20 can be cut or according to Figure 15a , Figure 15c and Figure 15d 2. Each connecting element.

[0191] Figure 15a and Figure 15b An embodiment can also be achieved by positioning the "ring" conductor 4 between two "ring" layers of the substrate 3, wherein after cutting out each connecting element 2, at least one layer of the substrate 3 is removed at both end regions of the connecting element 2. Figure 15a ) or two layers ( Figure 15b ).

[0192] The substrate 3 or strips or plates of the substrate 3 exist with a width that is wider than the area occupied by the two-dimensional shape of the conductor.

[0193] In another manufacturing embodiment, the two-dimensional deformed conductor 4 can be encapsulated in the substrate 3 by placing the conductor 4 on one half of a wider strip or web of the substrate 3, folding the other half of the strip or web around the conductor 4, and connecting (in particular by welding or gluing) the free ends of the two halves together.

[0194] Alternatively, several two-dimensionally deformed conductors 4 can be placed parallel to each other and spaced a certain distance apart on a wide membrane web or wide membrane strip, and covered with a second wide membrane web or second wide membrane strip. The membrane web or membrane strip can be bonded or welded in the area between the conductors 4. Individual connecting lines 20 can be obtained by cutting the membrane web or membrane strip in the longitudinal direction, and individual connecting elements 2 can be obtained by cutting them in the transverse direction.

[0195] Of course, the connecting line 20 and the connecting element 2 can also be obtained in this way, which contain two or more parallel and spaced apart conductors 4 (e.g., for collecting elements 10, 11 or for connecting element 2 or connecting line 20, which have "measuring conductors" and "control conductors" or "bus conductors").

Claims

1. A two-dimensional sensor network comprising sensor points (1) forming nodes of the network and elongated connecting elements (2) forming edges of the network, the connecting elements comprising a substrate (3) and a conductor (4), the network having at least two edges forming grid lines in each of two dimensions of the network, the network having sensor points (1) and connecting elements (2) being open in the region between the edges, wherein, At each sensor point (1), current flow or capacitive coupling is possible from a conductor (4) of a first grid line to a conductor (4) of a second grid line, the first grid line and the second grid line being transverse to each other, and the current flow or the capacitive coupling depending on the measured variable of the sensor point (1). The connecting element (2) is characterized in that each of the connecting elements (2) has a stretchable substrate (3) which is presented as a straight slat, and at least one conductor (4) is present on the substrate (3) extending from one end region of the connecting element (2) along the longitudinal direction of the connecting element to a second end region of the connecting element (2), the conductor (4) being made of an instretchable material, and the conductor (4) having a winding or bending orientation on the substrate (3) such that each segment of the conductor (4) extends transversely relative to the longitudinal direction of the corresponding connecting element (2).

2. The network according to claim 1, wherein, The substrate (3) is an elastic plastic film.

3. The network according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The conductor (4) is made of metal.

4. The network according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, All conductors (4) existing along the common grid line of the network are directly electrically connected, or connected through conductor traces (7, 8) existing at the sensor point (1).

5. The network according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, At least some sensor points (1) are provided with components in the form of diodes (15), transistors (16) or addressable switches (22), which are arranged in the current path of the sensor point (1) between the conductors (4) of the first grid line and the conductors (4) of the second grid line, which are transverse to each other.

6. The network according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, At least at one sensor point (1), there is a first conductor trace (7) and a second conductor trace (8), the first conductor trace (7) being electrically connected to the conductor (4) of the first grid line of the network, and the second conductor trace (8) being electrically connected directly to the conductor (4) of the second grid line of the network, the first grid line and the second grid line intersecting each other in the region of the sensor point (1), and a material or element sensitive to the measured variable being present between the first conductor trace (7) and the second conductor trace (8).

7. The network according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The connecting element (2) is capable of extending at least 1.25 times its unextended length.

8. The network according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The length of the conductor (4) is at least 1.5 times the straight length of the substrate (3), and the conductor extends along the substrate (3) in a winding or zigzag direction.

9. The network according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The conductor (4) of each grid line in the network is connected to the corresponding collection conductor of a common collection conductor or collection line (10, 11) leading to the electronic evaluation unit (12).

10. The network according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, in, The connecting element (2) is capable of extending 1.5 times its unextended length.

11. The network according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, in, The connecting element (2) is capable of extending twice the unextended length of the connecting element.

12. The network according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The length of the conductor (4) is twice the straight length of the substrate (3), and the conductor extends along the substrate (3) in a winding or zigzag direction.

13. Use of a two-dimensional sensor network according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The network is attached to entity (13).

14. The use according to claim 13, wherein, The entity (13) has a mark at the location for attaching sensor points (1), wherein at least some of the sensor points (1) are attached to the mark while extending their connecting elements (2).

15. The use according to claim 14, wherein, Adjacent markers are spaced apart by at least the distance between the unextended connecting elements (2) and wherein at least some of the adjacent markers are spaced apart by a distance greater than the length of the unextended connecting elements (2).

16. The use according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein, The network is attached to the curved surface of the entity (13) in two dimensions.

17. The use according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein, The entity (13) is an object, and the object or at least one surface or inner layer of the object has openings corresponding to the mesh of the network.

18. The use according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein, The entity (13) is an object in the form of a support device or clothing for a body part of an organism.

19. The use according to any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein, The entity (13) is deformable or elastic in the region of the network.

20. The use according to any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein, Create a digital model of the entity (13), the digital model including at least the surface of the entity (13) and the positions of the sensor points (1) of the network on the entity (13), and wherein the measurements of each sensor point (1) of the network are linked by software to the positions of each sensor point in the digital model.

21. The use according to any one of claims 13 to 20, wherein, The entity (13) is an object, wherein in a first step, the object is created or configured to have recesses, wherein after the first step, there are recesses on the object that are the size of the respective sensor points (1) and the recesses are spaced apart from each other, the recesses defining the positions of the sensor points (1), and wherein, subsequently in a second step, the network is placed on the entity (13), wherein the sensor points (1) of the network are thereby arranged in the recesses of the entity (13).

22. The use according to claim 21, wherein, In the first step, the entity (13) is created or configured to have an additional recess of the size of the connecting element (2), the additional recess of the connecting element (2) being connected to the recess for the sensor point (1), and then in the second step, the network is placed on the entity (13), the sensor point (1) of the network being placed in the recess for the sensor point (1), and the connecting element (2) being placed in the additional recess for the connecting element (2).

23. The use according to any one of claims 21 to 22, wherein, The plurality of distances existing between the corresponding two sensor points (1) and predetermined by the recess are longer than the unextended length of the corresponding connecting element (2) extending between the corresponding two sensor points (1).

24. A method for performing measurements on an entity (13) using a two-dimensional sensor network, the network comprising sensor points (1) as nodes of the network and extendable connecting elements (2) as edges of the network between the sensor points (1), and the network having at least two edges forming a grid line of the network in each of two dimensions of the network, wherein, The network having sensor points (1) and connecting elements (2) is open in the region between the edges, and wherein the connecting element (2) includes a stretchable substrate (3) and a conductor (4) extending from one end region of the connecting element (2) along the longitudinal direction of the connecting element to a second end region of the connecting element (2), the conductor (4) being made of a non-stretchable material, and the conductor (4) having a winding or bending orientation on the substrate (3) such that each segment of the conductor (4) extends laterally relative to the longitudinal direction of the corresponding connecting element (2), wherein, - In the first step, a digital model of the entity (13) is created. - In the second step, the positions of the measurement points are set in the digital model. - In the third step, while extending each connecting element (2) individually, the network is attached to the entity (13), thereby arranging the sensor point (1) on the entity at the location of the measurement point in the digital model. - In the fourth step, at least one measurement of the measured value is performed at the sensor point (1).

25. A method for performing measurements on an entity (13) using a two-dimensional sensor network, the network comprising sensor points (1) as nodes of the network and extendable connecting elements (2) as edges of the network between the sensor points (1), and the network having at least two edges forming a grid line of the network in each of two dimensions of the network, wherein, The network having sensor points (1) and connecting elements (2) is open in the region between the edges, and wherein the connecting element (2) includes a stretchable substrate (3) and a conductor (4) extending from one end region of the connecting element (2) along the longitudinal direction of the connecting element to a second end region of the connecting element (2), the conductor (4) being made of a non-stretchable material, and the conductor (4) having a winding or bending orientation on the substrate (3) such that each segment of the conductor (4) extends laterally relative to the longitudinal direction of the corresponding connecting element (2), wherein, - In the first step, the entity (13) is manufactured to have markings for measurement points, or the entity (13) is configured to have markings for measurement points. - In the second step, the network is attached to the entity (13) by extending the various connecting elements, and the sensor point (1) is arranged on the entity (13) at the marked position for the measurement point. - In the third step, at least one measurement of the measured value is performed at the sensor point (1).

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