Pressure sensor array and respiratory monitoring device comprising the same

Abstract

The present invention provides a pressure sensor array and a respiration monitoring device including the same, the pressure sensor array including: a first sheet extending in a first direction and including first electrodes arranged spaced apart from each other in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a second sheet extending in the second direction and including second electrodes arranged spaced apart from each other in the first direction; and a third sheet disposed between the first sheet and the second sheet and including a partition wall defining a plurality of holes arranged spaced apart from each other in the first and second directions, and a pressure-sensitive layer disposed inside each of the plurality of holes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One or more embodiments of this disclosure relate to pressure sensor arrays and respiratory monitoring devices including said pressure sensor arrays. Background Technology

[0002] Various respiratory illnesses are on the rise due to fine dust and viruses (such as coronaviruses). Respiratory monitoring devices, which are electronic devices that sense a user's breathing activity, can be used to obtain a user's breathing patterns and analyze respiratory diseases. These devices may include sensors configured to measure changes in pressure, etc., as the user breathes, and circuitry configured to operate the sensors. Respiratory monitoring devices can be used when attached to a user's nose and mouth.

[0003] The information disclosed in this background section is intended to enhance understanding of the background of this disclosure, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical issues

[0005] In the respiratory monitoring device according to the comparative example, the user may experience a foreign body sensation while breathing, and the respiratory monitoring device may interfere with the user's activities. Embodiments of this disclosure may relate to a stretchable pressure sensor array that can be adapted to different shapes, and a respiratory monitoring device including said pressure sensor array. However, aspects and features of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0006] Solution to the problem

[0007] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, a pressure sensor array includes: a first sheet including a first electrode extending in a first direction and spaced apart from each other along a second direction intersecting the first direction; a second sheet including a second electrode extending in the second direction and spaced apart from each other along the first direction; and a third sheet located between the first and second sheets and including: a partition wall defining a plurality of holes spaced apart from each other in the first and second directions; and a pressure-sensitive layer located on the inner surface of each of the plurality of holes.

[0008] In the implementation scheme, each of the first sheet, the second sheet, and the third sheet may include nanofibers.

[0009] In one embodiment, each of the first electrode and the second electrode may include metal-coated nanofibers.

[0010] In an implementation scheme, the partition wall may include an elastomer.

[0011] In an implementation, each layer of the pressure-sensitive layer may include nanofibers coated with conductive particles.

[0012] In one embodiment, the nanofibers can be bonded to the conductive particles via imide bonding.

[0013] In the implementation scheme, each layer of the pressure-sensitive layer may overlap with a corresponding one of a plurality of cross regions, in which the first electrode crosses with the second electrode.

[0014] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, a respiratory monitoring device includes: a pressure sensor array configured to sense pressure changes caused by a user's breathing; a transponder configured to supply voltage to the pressure sensor array, convert sensed signals received from the pressure sensor array into data signals, and transmit the converted data signals; a reader configured to supply voltage to the transponder via inductive coupling and receive the data signals from the transponder; and a face mask configured to secure the pressure sensor array and the transponder to the user's face. The pressure sensor array includes: a first sheet including a first electrode extending in a first direction and spaced apart from each other along a second direction intersecting the first direction; a second sheet including a second electrode extending in the second direction and spaced apart from each other along the first direction; and a third sheet between the first and second sheets and including: a partition wall defining a plurality of holes spaced apart from each other in the first and second directions; and a pressure-sensitive layer located on the inner surface of each of the plurality of holes.

[0015] In the implementation scheme, each of the first sheet, the second sheet, and the third sheet may include nanofibers.

[0016] In one embodiment, each of the first electrode and the second electrode may include metal-coated nanofibers.

[0017] In an implementation scheme, the partition wall may include an elastomer.

[0018] In an implementation, each layer of the pressure-sensitive layer may include nanofibers coated with conductive particles.

[0019] In one embodiment, the nanofibers can be bonded to the conductive particles via imide bonding.

[0020] In the implementation scheme, each layer of the pressure-sensitive layer may overlap with a corresponding one of a plurality of cross regions, in which the first electrode crosses with the second electrode.

[0021] In an implementation, the transponder may include: a first antenna; a rectifier configured to convert an AC voltage received through the first antenna into a DC voltage; a pressure sensor reader configured to input a drive signal to the pressure sensor array, receive a sensing signal from the pressure sensor array, and convert the sensing signal into a first signal; a data serializer configured to serialize the first signal, convert the serialized first signal into a data signal, and change the voltage level of the first antenna according to the data signal; and a power manager configured to receive the DC voltage from the rectifier and distribute the DC voltage.

[0022] In one implementation, the reader may include: a second antenna; an amplifier configured to generate the AC voltage based on an input clock signal; a matching network configured to transmit the AC voltage from the amplifier to the second antenna; a signal processor configured to sense the voltage level of the first antenna; and a data demodulator configured to demodulate the data signal based on the voltage level of the first antenna.

[0023] In an implementation scheme, the AC voltage may include a sine wave of approximately 433 MHz.

[0024] In one embodiment, the respiratory monitoring device may further include a display connected to the mask and configured to display the user's breathing information.

[0025] In one implementation, the display may include a reflective display panel.

[0026] In one implementation, the reader may be configured to generate a control signal including the user's breathing information based on the data signal, and transmit the control signal to the transponder; and the transponder may be configured to transmit the control signal to the display.

[0027] However, this disclosure is not limited to the aspects and features described above, and the above and other aspects and features will be set forth in part in the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, and will be apparent in part from therein, or may be learned by practicing one or more of the embodiments presented in this disclosure.

[0028] Beneficial effects of the invention

[0029] Based on some of the embodiments described above, a stretchable pressure sensor array that can be deformed into various suitable shapes, and a respiratory monitoring device including said pressure sensor array, can be realized. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic plan view of the pressure sensor array according to the implementation scheme.

[0031] Figure 2 It is a schematic plan view of the first layer according to the implementation plan.

[0032] Figure 3 This is a schematic plan view of the second layer according to the implementation plan.

[0033] Figure 4 This is a schematic enlarged plan view of area II of the first layer shown in Figure 2.

[0034] Figure 5 This is a schematic plan view of the third layer according to the implementation plan.

[0035] Figure 6a This is a view showing conductive particles, and Figure 6b This is a view showing nanofibers coated with conductive particles.

[0036] Figure 7a This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the pressure sensor array according to the implementation scheme, and Figure 7b This shows that pressure is applied to... Figure 7a A view of the pressure sensor array.

[0037] Figure 8 This is a schematic view of a part of a respiratory monitoring device according to the implementation plan.

[0038] Figure 9 This is a schematic block diagram of a respiratory monitoring device according to the implementation plan.

[0039] Figure 10 This is a view of the transponder and reader.

[0040] Figure 11a This is a graph showing the relationship between the elongation and the rate of change of electrical resistance of metal-coated nanofibers, and... Figure 11b This is a graph showing the relationship between the stretching repetition of metal-coated nanofibers and the rate of change of electrical resistance.

[0041] Figure 12aThis is a graph showing the relationship between pressure and the rate of change of current in each of the non-stretchable and stretchable pressure sensors.

[0042] Figure 12b This is a graph showing the rate of change of pressure versus current measured in real time by a pressure sensor.

[0043] Figure 12c This is a graph showing the relationship between load cycles and the rate of change of current for an unstretched pressure sensor; and Figure 12d This is a graph showing the relationship between the load cycle and the rate of change of current of a telescopic pressure sensor.

[0044] Figures 13a to 13f It is a graph showing pressure changes in an array of pressure sensors measured using a respiratory monitoring device according to one or more embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0045] In the following description, embodiments will be illustrated in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote the same elements throughout. However, this disclosure may be embodied in various different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments shown herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided as examples so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey to those skilled in the art the aspects and features of this disclosure. Therefore, processes, elements, and techniques not essential to those skilled in the art may be omitted in order to fully understand the aspects and features of this disclosure. Unless otherwise stated, the same reference numerals denote the same elements throughout the drawings and written description, and therefore redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0046] When a particular implementation can be carried out differently, the specific sequence of processes may differ from the order in which they are described. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed simultaneously or substantially simultaneously, or they may be performed in the reverse order of their description.

[0047] Furthermore, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, when considered in its entirety, each suitable feature of the various embodiments of this disclosure may be combined in part or in whole with one another, and may be technically interlocked and operated in a variety of suitable ways, and each embodiment may be implemented independently of one another or in combination with one another in any suitable way, unless otherwise stated or implied.

[0048] In the accompanying drawings, for clarity, the relative dimensions, thicknesses, and ratios of elements, layers, and regions may be enlarged and / or simplified. For ease of interpretation, spatial relative terms (e.g., “below,” “under,” “lower,” “below,” “above,” “upper,” etc.) may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as shown in the drawings. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation other than those depicted in the drawings. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, an element described as “below,” “under,” or “below” other elements or features would be oriented as “above” other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary terms “below” and “below” can include both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or otherwise), and the spatial relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0049] Furthermore, it should be anticipated that, in practice, the shapes shown in the accompanying drawings may vary depending on, for example, tolerances and / or manufacturing techniques. Therefore, embodiments of this disclosure should not be construed as limited to the specific shapes shown in the drawings, and should be interpreted in light of possible shape variations due to, for example, manufacturing processes. Consequently, the shapes shown in the drawings may not depict the actual shape of an area of ​​the device, and this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0050] In the accompanying figures, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are not limited to the three axes of a Cartesian coordinate system and can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis can be perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to each other, or they can represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other.

[0051] As used herein, the phrases "in a plan view" and "in a plan view" can refer to a view of the target portion viewed from above (e.g., in a direction perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the upper surface of the base). The phrases "in a cross-sectional view" and "in a cross-sectional view" can refer to a cross-section of the target portion taken vertically and viewed from a transverse side.

[0052] As used herein, when a first element is referred to as “overlapping” or “overlapping” with a second element, the first element may be arranged above or below (e.g., below) the second element to at least partially overlap with the second element in a plan view.

[0053] It should be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, areas, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, areas, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, area, layer, or segment from another element, component, area, layer, or segment. Therefore, without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, the first element, first component, first area, first layer, or first segment described below may be referred to as a second element, second component, second area, second layer, or second segment.

[0054] It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "attached to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, or directly attached to the other element or layer, or there can be one or more intermediate elements or layers. Similarly, when a layer, region, or element is referred to as being "electrically connected" to another layer, region, or element, it can be directly electrically connected to the other layer, region, or element, and / or can be indirectly electrically connected to one or more intermediate layers, regions, or elements. Furthermore, it should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "between two elements or layers," it can be the only element or layer between the two elements or layers, or there can be one or more intermediate elements or layers.

[0055] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “an” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “have,” and “having” indicate the presence of a stated feature, integer, step, operation, element, and / or component, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the items listed in the relevant list. For example, the expression “A and / or B” means A, B, or A and B. When preceding a list of elements, expressions such as “at least one of…” modify the entire list of elements and do not modify individual elements within the list. As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as terms of approximation and not as terms of degree, and are intended to explain the inherent variations in measurements or calculations that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0056] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It should also be understood that terms (e.g., those defined in common dictionaries) shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the relevant field and / or the context of this specification, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0057] Figure 1 This is a schematic plan view of the pressure sensor array according to the implementation scheme. Figure 2 It is a schematic plan view of the first layer according to the implementation plan. Figure 3 This is a schematic plan view of the second layer according to the implementation plan. Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A schematic enlarged plan view of zone II of the first layer shown. Figure 5 This is a schematic plan view of the third layer according to the implementation plan.

[0058] refer to Figures 1 to 5 According to the embodiment, the pressure sensor array 10 may include a first electrode 110, a second electrode 120 intersecting the first electrode 110, a partition wall 130 defining a plurality of holes 130h, and a pressure-sensitive layer 150 disposed in each of the plurality of holes 130h.

[0059] The pressure sensor array 10 can have a multilayer structure, in which multiple nanofiber sheets overlap each other. As an example, the pressure sensor array 10 may include a first layer L1, a second layer L2, and a third layer L3. The first layer L1 includes a first electrode 110, the second layer L2 includes a second electrode 120, and the third layer L3 includes a partition wall 130 and a pressure-sensitive layer 150. The first layer L1 may be disposed on the second layer L2, and the third layer L3 may be disposed between the first layer L1 and the second layer L2. Figure 1 The first layer L1, the second layer L2, and the third layer L3 are shown overlapping each other to illustrate the positional relationship of each element in the pressure sensor array 10.

[0060] refer to Figure 2 The first layer L1 may include a first nanofiber sheet 101 and a first electrode 110. Each of the first electrodes 110 may extend in a first direction (e.g., the y-direction) and may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (e.g., the x-direction) that intersects the first direction (e.g., the y-direction).

[0061] refer to Figure 3The second layer L2 may include a second nanofiber sheet 102 and a second electrode 120. Each of the second electrodes 120 may extend in a second direction (e.g., the x-direction) and may be spaced apart from each other in a first direction (e.g., the y-direction).

[0062] Each of the first electrode 110 and the second electrode 120 may include metal-coated nanofibers. In an embodiment, such as... Figure 4 As shown, the first electrode 110 can be formed by coating a portion of the first nanofiber sheet 101 with a metallic material. Similarly, the second electrode 120 can be formed by coating a portion of the second nanofiber sheet 102 with a metallic material.

[0063] The first nanofiber sheet 101 and the second nanofiber sheet 102 can be integrated nanofibers formed using electrospinning and can have multiple pores through which gas or fluid can pass. In embodiments, the nanofibers can include polyurethane, polystyrene-block-poly(ethylene butene)-block-polystyrene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, or any suitable mixture thereof. In embodiments, the nanofibers can be maleic anhydride-grafted polystyrene-block-poly(ethylene butene)-block-polystyrene (SEBS-g-MA).

[0064] Metallic materials can be coated onto nanofibers using various suitable methods, such as chemical vapor deposition and sputtering. In embodiments, the metallic materials may include gold (Au), silver (Ag), platinum (Pt), aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), molybdenum (Mo), etc.

[0065] Because the first electrode 110 is formed by coating a portion of the first nanofiber sheet 101 with a metallic material, and the second electrode 120 is formed by coating a portion of the second nanofiber sheet 102 with a metallic material, the electrode configuration can be maintained even when the pressure sensor array 10 is repeatedly stretched or subjected to strong pressure. Furthermore, because the first electrode 110 and the second electrode 120 can have a network structure formed by integrating nanofibers coated with metallic material, the change in resistance can be small (e.g., very small) even when the pressure sensor array 10 is stretched. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the first nanofiber sheet 101 on which the first electrode 110 is not formed can be removed, or at least a portion of the second nanofiber sheet 102 on which the second electrode 120 is not formed can be removed.

[0066] refer to Figure 5 The third layer L3 may include a third nanofiber sheet 103, a separator 130, and a pressure-sensitive layer 150. The separator 130 may form a mesh structure defining a plurality of pores 130h. Although the separator 130 defines the pores 130h, in Figures 1 to 5 In the plan view, each hole has an approximately quadrilateral shape, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, in the plan view, the hole 130h defined by the partition wall 130 may have other suitable polygonal, circular, elliptical, or irregular shapes.

[0067] The separator 130 may comprise an insulating elastomer. The insulating elastomer may be a silicone-based elastomer (e.g., polydimethylsiloxane), a styrene-based elastomer, an olefin-based elastomer, a polyurethane, or any suitable mixture thereof. The separator 130 may be formed by filling a portion of the pores of the third nanofiber sheet 103 with the insulating elastomer. The separator 130 may have a continuous or substantially continuous surface without pores.

[0068] Pressure-sensitive layers 150 may be disposed on the inner surface of each of the plurality of holes 130h. Pressure-sensitive layers 150 may be spaced apart and separated from each other along a first direction (e.g., the y-direction) and a second direction (e.g., the x-direction), with partition walls 130 therebetween. The first layer L1, the second layer L2, and the third layer L3 may be fixed (e.g., may be connected or attached to each other) such that, in a plan view, each of the pressure-sensitive layers 150 overlaps with one of the cross regions, in which the first electrode 110 crosses the second electrode 120. The first layer L1, the second layer L2, and the third layer L3 may be thermally fused together or fixed by various suitable methods, such as adhesives or sewing.

[0069] The pressure-sensitive layer 150 may comprise nanofibers coated with conductive particles. In an embodiment, the pressure-sensitive layer 150 may be formed by forming a septum 130 in a portion of a third nanofiber sheet 103 and reacting a solution of conductive particles within the pores 130h of the septum 130. The conductive particles may include carbon nanotubes, graphene, metal nanowires, or metal nanosheets. The conductive particles may include (e.g.) carboxylic acid-modified graphene, silver nanowires, or silver nanosheets.

[0070] The third nanofiber sheet 103 may comprise integrated nanofibers formed using electrospinning and may have multiple pores through which gas or fluid can pass. In embodiments, the nanofibers may comprise polyurethane, polystyrene-block-poly(ethylene butene)-block-polystyrene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, or any suitable mixture thereof. In embodiments, the nanofibers may comprise (e.g., may be) maleic anhydride-grafted polystyrene-block-poly(ethylene butene)-block-polystyrene (SEBS-g-MA).

[0071] like Figure 1As shown, the j-th first electrode 110, the i-th second electrode 120, and the pressure-sensitive layer 150 disposed between the j-th first electrode 110 and the i-th second electrode 120 can form a pressure sensor unit Cij. The pressure sensor units Cij can form an m×n matrix, and the pressure sensor array 10 can measure the change in the electrical characteristics of each pressure sensor unit Cij to measure two-dimensional pressure changes based on the position of the pressure sensor unit Cij. Here, m is the number of second electrodes 120 and is a natural number greater than 1. Furthermore, n is the number of first electrodes 110 and is a natural number greater than 1. Additionally, i is a natural number from 1 to m, and j is a natural number from 1 to n.

[0072] Each pressure unit Cij is separated and fixed by partition wall 130 to prevent or reduce electrical interference between pressure sensor units Cij, even in the event of deformation of pressure sensor array 10.

[0073] although Figures 1 to 5 Three first electrodes 110, three second electrodes 120 and nine pressure-sensitive layers 150 are shown, but this disclosure is not limited thereto, and their number can be modified in various ways as needed or desired.

[0074] Figure 6a This is a view showing conductive particles. Figure 6b This is a view showing nanofibers coated with conductive particles.

[0075] refer to Figure 6a Contained in pressure-sensitive layer 150 (e.g., see...) Figure 5 The conductive particles CP in the polymer (Pm) can be modified with a polymer Pm containing amine functional groups (e.g., they can be contained in a polymer Pm containing amine functional groups). As an example, the carboxyl groups of the conductive particles CP and the amine functional groups of the polymer (Pm) can react with each other (e.g., R-COOH + R'-NH2 → R-CONH-R' + H2O), such that the conductive particles CP can be modified with a polymer Pm containing amine functional groups (e.g., they can be contained in a polymer Pm containing amine functional groups). The conductive particles CP can include carbon nanotubes, graphene, metal nanowires, or metal nanosheets. The polymer Pm containing amine functional groups can include poly(allylamine), polyetherimide, poly(ethyleneimide), etc.

[0076] refer to Figure 6bConductive particles CP modified with a polymer Pm containing amine functional groups (e.g., contained in a polymer Pm containing amine functional groups) can be chemically bonded to nanofibers forming a third nanofiber sheet 103. In an embodiment, the polymer Pm may contain a reaction product of an amine functional group and maleic anhydride. In an embodiment, the nanofibers may contain polystyrene-block-poly(ethylene butene)-block-polystyrene (SEBS-g-MA) grafted with maleic anhydride. As shown in reaction scheme 1 below, the maleic anhydride groups of the nanofibers (shown in reaction scheme 1, nanofibers not shown) can undergo an imidization reaction with the amine functional groups of the polymer Pm to form an imide bonded to both the nanofibers and the polymer Pm. In reaction scheme 1, R of the amine functional group represents the polymer Pm.

[0077] Reaction scheme 1:

[0078] Therefore, nanofibers can be chemically bonded to conductive particles via imide bonds. In a comparative example, when unmodified conductive particles are coated onto nanofibers, the conductive particle coating may easily crack or peel off when the nanofibers are deformed. On the other hand, according to some embodiments, since the pressure-sensitive layer 150 can be formed by coating nanofibers with conductive particles CP modified with a polymer Pm containing amine functional groups (e.g., contained in a polymer Pm containing amine functional groups), the nanofibers can be chemically bonded to the conductive particles. Therefore, even when the pressure-sensitive array 10 is repeatedly stretched or subjected to strong pressure, the conductive particles CP may not peel off from the nanofibers, and more stable device characteristics can be exhibited.

[0079] Figure 7a This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the pressure sensor array according to the implementation scheme. Figure 7b This shows that pressure is applied to Figure 7a A view of the pressure sensor array.

[0080] Figure 7b schematically showing along Figure 1 The pressure sensor array 10 is shown as a cross section intercepted by line I-I'.

[0081] refer to Figure 7a The pressure sensor array 10 may include a first layer L1, a second layer L2, and a third layer L3. The first layer L1 may be disposed on the second layer L2, and the third layer L3 may be disposed between the first layer L1 and the second layer L2.

[0082] The first layer L1 may include a first electrode 110 extending in a first direction (e.g., the y direction), and the second layer L2 may include a second electrode 120 extending in a second direction (e.g., the x direction). The third layer L3 may include a partition wall 130 and a pressure-sensitive layer 150 disposed between the first electrode 110 and the second electrode 120.

[0083] The first layer L1, the second layer L2, and the third layer L3 may include (for example,) nanofiber sheets comprising integrated nanofibers formed using electrospinning. The first electrode 110 and the second electrode 120 can be formed by coating the nanofibers forming the nanofiber sheets with a suitable metallic material. The pressure-sensitive layer 150 can be formed by forming a septum 130 having an insulating elastomer on the nanofiber sheet and coating the pores of the septum 130 with conductive particles.

[0084] Because each of the first layer L1, the second layer L2, and the third layer L3 has a network structure, each of the first layer L1, the second layer L2, and the third layer L3 can deform in various suitable directions. Therefore, the pressure sensor array 10 can stretch and / or fold or roll into a roll in one or more directions.

[0085] The pressure sensor units Cij can be arranged in a matrix. As an example, pressure sensor units Cij sharing a second electrode 120 can be arranged in the same row, and pressure sensor units Cij sharing a first electrode 110 can be arranged in the same column. For ease of illustration, Figure 7a and Figure 7b A first pressure sensor unit C11, a second pressure sensor unit C12, and a third pressure sensor unit C13 are shown, which share a second electrode 120 and are arranged in the same row as each other.

[0086] A pressure sensor unit Cij may include a first electrode 110, a second electrode 120, and a pressure-sensitive layer 150 disposed between the first electrode 110 and the second electrode 120. A partition wall 130 separates the pressure-sensitive layers 150 from each other and prevents or reduces electrical interference between the pressure sensor units Cij even when the pressure sensor array 10 is deformed into various shapes. In an embodiment, because the partition wall 130 can maintain or substantially maintain a relatively constant distance between the first electrode 110 and the second electrode 120 even when the pressure sensor array 10 extends or retracts, the partition wall 130 can reduce current variations that may be caused by the extension or retraction of the pressure sensor array 10.

[0087] The conductive particles of the pressure-sensitive layer 150 of the pressure sensor unit Cij can form conductive paths that electrically connect the first electrode 110 to the second electrode 120. When the pressure-sensitive layer 150 is compressed, the number of conductive paths formed by the conductive particles can increase, thereby reducing the resistance between the first electrode 110 and the second electrode 120. Therefore, the pressure at each location of the pressure sensor array 10 can be calculated by measuring the current flowing in each of the pressure sensor units Cij or by measuring the resistance between the first electrode 110 and the second electrode 120 forming the pressure sensor unit Cij.

[0088] Because each of the first electrode 110, the second electrode 120, and the pressure-sensitive layer 150 includes multiple pores, gas or fluid can easily pass through it. Therefore, when the first electrode 110, the second electrode 120, and the pressure-sensitive layer 150 are used as respiratory sensing sensors in a respiratory monitoring device, the user can feel less of a foreign body sensation.

[0089] refer to Figure 7b Pressure P can be applied to a portion of the pressure sensor array 10. As an example, a localized pressure P can be applied to a second pressure sensor unit C12. The pressure sensor array 10 can stretch or contract in the thickness direction (e.g., the z-direction) and can also be completely deformed by pressure P.

[0090] The second pressure sensor unit C12 can be compressed by pressure P, and the conductive path formed by the conductive particles contained in the pressure-sensitive layer 150 of the second pressure sensor unit C12 can be increased. Therefore, the resistance between the first electrode 110 and the second electrode 120 forming the second pressure sensor unit C12 can be reduced, and the current flowing from the first electrode 110 to the second electrode 120 can be increased. Therefore, the pressure P applied to the second pressure sensor unit C12 can be measured based on the change in resistance or the change in current.

[0091] The first pressure sensor unit C11 and the third pressure sensor unit C13 can at least partially expand and contract by deforming the pressure sensor array 10. When the pressure P is not directly applied to the first pressure sensor unit C11 and the third pressure sensor unit C13, the thickness of the first pressure sensor unit C11 and the third pressure sensor unit C13 can be maintained or substantially maintained by the partition wall 130. Therefore, the resistance of the pressure-sensitive layer 150 of each of the first pressure sensor unit C11 and the third pressure sensor unit C13 can remain unchanged or can change relatively little (e.g., relatively less than the change in the case of directly applied pressure P). Therefore, the pressure sensor array 10 can more accurately measure the location and intensity of the applied local pressure P.

[0092] Figure 8 This is a schematic view of a portion of the respiratory monitoring device 1 according to the implementation plan. Figure 9 This is a schematic block diagram of the respiratory monitoring device 1 according to the implementation plan.

[0093] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The respiratory monitoring device 1 according to the implementation scheme may include a pressure sensor array 10, a transponder 20, a display 30, a reader 40, and a mask 50.

[0094] The mask portion 50 may be a mechanism for securing the pressure sensor array 10, the transponder 20, and the display 30 to the user's face. The mask portion 50 may include a body 51 surrounding (e.g., encircling) the user's face, and a securing portion 52 for securing the body 51 to the user's ear or head. In an embodiment, the body 51 of the mask portion 50 may include a flexible, breathable sheet and may be in close contact with the user's face.

[0095] The pressure sensor array 10 can be fixed to cover the user's nose and mouth through the mask portion 50. The pressure sensor array 10 can be disposed on the center of the main body 51 of the mask portion 50, and can be disposed on the rear surface of the main body 51, or in other words, facing the user's face. (See above reference.) Figures 1 to 5 The pressure sensor array 10 may include multiple pressure sensor units Cij to measure pressure changes at each location caused by the user's breathing.

[0096] In one embodiment, the pressure sensor array 10 can be integrated with the mask portion 50. As an example, the pressure sensor array 10 can be integrated with the body 51 of the mask portion 50. In another embodiment, the pressure sensor array 10 can be detachably provided to the mask portion 50. As described above, the pressure sensor array 10 can include a nanofiber sheet containing multiple pores and can be deformable into various suitable shapes. Therefore, the pressure sensor array 10 can be in close contact with the user's face and can reduce discomfort during breathing.

[0097] The transponder 20 can supply voltage to the pressure sensor array 10 and the display 30, apply a drive signal Tx to the pressure sensor array 10, and convert the sensing signal Rx received from the pressure sensor array 10 into a data signal Data, which is then sent to the reader 40. In an embodiment, the sensing signal Rx may include (e.g., a change in resistance or current contained in each pressure sensor unit in the pressure sensor array 10). The transponder 20 may be provided in chip form and can be fixed to the user's face via the mask portion 50.

[0098] The reader 40 can supply power to the transponder 20 via inductive coupling and can receive data signal Data from the transponder 20 for analysis. The reader 40 can be a computing device for analyzing the data signal Data. As an example, the reader 40 may include a memory for storing the data signal Data, commands, software, applications, etc., and a processor for processing the data signal Data and performing various appropriate operations.

[0099] In this implementation, the reader 40 can analyze the user's breathing pattern based on a data signal Data and generate a control signal CS containing the user's breathing information. The data signal Data may include two-dimensional pressure changes caused by the user's breathing, measured using a pressure sensor array 10. Mouth breathing and nasal breathing can be distinguished based on the location of the pressure change. The reader 40 can obtain the user's breathing pattern data over time by the location and intensity of the pressure change. In this implementation, the reader 40 can generate breathing information from the breathing pattern data, including information corresponding to the user's respiratory illness or breathing habits. The reader 40 can transmit the control signal CS to the transponder 20.

[0100] The transponder 20 can transmit a voltage Pd and a control signal CS for driving the display 30 to the display 30. The display 30 can display the user's breathing information based on the control signal CS. In an embodiment, the display 30 may include a reflective display panel that does not use a separate battery and display circuitry for controlling the display panel.

[0101] In one embodiment, the display 30 may include a self-emissive display panel. The self-emissive display panel may include organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), inorganic light-emitting diodes (LEDs), quantum dot LEDs (QEDs), micro LEDs, nano LEDs, etc. Because a self-emissive display panel may not include individual transistors, it can be provided as a passive matrix display panel with relatively low power consumption. In another embodiment, the display 30 may include a deformable flexible display panel.

[0102] The display 30 can be fixed to the user's face via the mask portion 50. The user can easily check breathing information, such as respiratory illnesses or breathing habits, through the display 30. In some embodiments, the display 30 can be omitted as needed or desired.

[0103] Figure 10 This is a view of the transponder 20 and the reader 40.

[0104] refer to Figure 10 The transponder 20 and the reader 40 can form a wireless communication system configured to use load shift keying to transmit voltage and data signals.

[0105] The transponder 20 may include a first antenna 21, a rectifier 23, a power manager 25, a pressure sensor reader 27, and a data serializer 29. The transponder 20 may receive power from the reader 40 through the inductive coupling between the first antenna 21 and the second antenna 41 of the reader 40.

[0106] The rectifier 23 can be connected to both ends (e.g., opposite ends) of the first antenna 21 and can convert the AC voltage received through the first antenna 21 into a DC voltage. The power manager 25 can receive the DC voltage from the rectifier 23 and can supply voltage to the pressure sensor array 10, the display 30, and other components of the transponder 20. The power manager 25 can be provided in the form of a power management integrated circuit embedded in the transponder 20.

[0107] Pressure sensor reader 27 may include control of pressure sensor array 10 (e.g., see...) Figure 9 The control circuitry and the analog-to-digital converter that converts the analog signals received from the pressure sensor array 10 into a first signal, which may be a digital signal. The pressure sensor reader 27 can receive voltage from the power manager 25 and can apply a drive signal Tx to the pressure sensor array 10 (e.g., see...). Figure 9 It can detect the sensing signal Rx and convert the sensing signal Rx into a first signal, which is a digital signal.

[0108] The data serializer 29 serializes the first signal transmitted from the pressure sensor reader 27 and converts the first signal into a data signal Data. The data signal Data may include address information indicating the location of each measurement. The data serializer 29 can turn a switch on / off based on the data signal to change the voltage level of the first antenna 21.

[0109] The reader 40 may include a second antenna 41, an amplifier 43, a matching network 45, a signal processor 47, and a data demodulator 49.

[0110] Amplifier 43 can generate an AC voltage with a desired frequency (e.g., a preset or predetermined frequency) based on an externally input clock signal 42. The power generated by amplifier 43 can be transmitted to second antenna 41 through matching network 45. Matching network 45 can reduce losses caused by voltage transmission through impedance matching.

[0111] Signal processor 47 can be connected to the second antenna 41 and can sense the voltage level of the first antenna 21. As described above, the data serializer 29 of transponder 20 can switch on / off according to the data signal Data to change the voltage level of the first antenna 21, and the change in the voltage level of the first antenna 21 can change the impedance of the circuit connected to the second antenna 41 through inductive coupling. Signal processor 47 can sense the change in the voltage level of the first antenna 21 from the voltage swing width difference caused by the impedance change, and can transmit the voltage level change to data demodulator 49.

[0112] The data demodulator 49 can use an amplitude shift key to demodulate the data signal according to the voltage level change of the first antenna 21 received from the signal processor 47.

[0113] Because the reader 40 can generate a sinusoidal AC voltage for wireless communication and transmit the AC voltage to the first antenna 21 of the transponder 20, the transponder 20 can operate without using a separate battery. In this case, the frequency of the AC power supply used can be approximately 433 MHz. Therefore, because the size of the first antenna 21 can be reduced, user discomfort that may be caused by the transponder 20 can be reduced. Furthermore, even when the data signal Data is transmitted from the transponder 20 to the reader 40, the reader 40 can simultaneously or substantially simultaneously supply an induced voltage to the transponder 20.

[0114] The following sections will describe experimental examples based on some implementation schemes in more detail.

[0115] Figure 11a This is a graph showing the relationship between the elongation and the rate of change of resistance of a metal-coated nanofiber electrode. Figure 11b This is a graph showing the relationship between the number of stretching repetitions of a metal-coated nanofiber electrode and the rate of change of resistance.

[0116] Metal-coated nanofiber electrodes can be formed by sputtering gold (Au) onto maleic anhydride-grafted styrene-ethylene-butene-styrene nanofiber sheets, which can be formed by electrospinning.

[0117] refer to Figure 11a The nanofiber sheet is stretched and contracted in a first direction (e.g., the y-direction) and a second direction (e.g., the x-direction), and the resistance of the metal-coated nanofiber electrode is measured. In this case, even when the elongation of the nanofiber sheet increases by up to 50%, the resistance of the metal-coated nanofiber electrode does not change significantly.

[0118] refer to Figure 11bThe resistance of a metal-coated nanofiber electrode can be measured while the nanofiber sheet is stretched or contracted by approximately 50% in a first direction (e.g., the y-direction) and then returned to its original state. Even if the number of stretching and contraction repetitions can be increased to 1000 times, the resistance of the metal-coated nanofiber electrode may not change significantly.

[0119] Because the first and second electrodes of the pressure sensor array can comprise metal-coated nanofiber electrodes, the resistance of the first and second electrodes may not change significantly. Therefore, a respiratory monitoring device according to some embodiments can distinguish and sense a user's breathing based on deformations of the pressure sensor array (such as, for example, due to the user's movement).

[0120] Figure 12a This is a graph showing the relationship between pressure and the rate of change of current for each of the non-stretchable and stretchable pressure sensors. Figure 12b This is a graph showing the rate of change of pressure versus current measured in real time by a pressure sensor. Figure 12c This is a graph showing the relationship between the load cycle and the rate of change of current for an unstretched pressure sensor. Figure 12d This is a graph showing the relationship between the load cycle and the rate of change of current of a telescopic pressure sensor.

[0121] A first layer including a first electrode and a second layer including a second electrode can be formed by sputtering gold (Au) onto a maleic anhydride-grafted styrene-ethylene-butene-styrene nanofiber sheet formed using electrospinning. An elastomer can be used to form pore-containing partition walls on the maleic anhydride-grafted styrene-ethylene-butene-styrene nanofiber sheet, and a pressure sensor array can be fabricated by reacting a polyethyleneimine-modified carbon nanotube solution within the pores to form a pressure-sensitive layer. Figures 12a to 12d The results of measuring the current flowing through a pressure sensor cell that forms a pressure sensor array are shown.

[0122] refer to Figure 12a When the pressure applied to both the unstretched and 50% stretched pressure sensors increases to 50 kPa and then decreases, the rate of change of current can increase and then decrease proportionally to the pressure. In this case, the rates of change of current for the unstretched and 50% stretched pressure sensors can have the same or substantially the same pressure-sensitive characteristics.

[0123] refer to Figure 12bWhen the pressure applied to the pressure sensor increases at appropriate time intervals (e.g., at preset or predetermined time intervals), the rate of change of current in the pressure sensor can increase accordingly. The respiratory monitoring device according to the embodiment can calculate the pressure change caused by the user's breathing based on the rate of change of current in the pressure sensor.

[0124] Figure 12c The diagram shows the rate of change of current in the unstretched pressure sensor during repeated load cycles of increasing and decreasing pressure. Figure 12d This shows the rate of change of current in a pressure sensor that expands and contracts by approximately 50% during repeated load cycles. (Reference) Figure 12c and Figure 12d Both the unextended pressure sensor and the 50% extended pressure sensor can exhibit stable pressure-sensitive characteristics while undergoing 5000 load cycles. Although pressure sensor arrays and respiratory monitoring devices have been primarily described, this disclosure is not limited thereto. As examples, respiratory monitoring methods using pressure sensor arrays and respiratory monitoring devices also fall within the scope and spirit of this disclosure.

[0125] Figures 13a to 13f It is a graph showing pressure changes in an array of pressure sensors measured using a respiratory monitoring device according to one or more embodiments.

[0126] refer to Figures 13a to 13f Breathing monitoring devices can measure pressure changes over time in each cell of a pressure sensor array in two dimensions. For example, a pressure change measured on the upper side of the pressure sensor array might be due to the user's nasal breathing, while a pressure change measured on the lower side of the pressure sensor array might be due to the user's mouth breathing.

[0127] Figure 13a The pressure changes of the pressure sensor array are shown due to normal mouth breathing measured over time. Figure 13b The pressure changes of the pressure sensor array measured over time when the user is short of breath (e.g., when the user has difficulty breathing). Figure 13c The pressure changes of the pressure sensor array measured over time when the user coughs are shown. Figure 13d The pressure changes over time, measured by an array of pressure sensors, are shown due to the breathing of a patient with rhinitis. Figure 13e The pressure changes due to breathing in a pressure sensor array are shown over time during sleep in a patient with sleep apnea. Figure 13f The diagram illustrates pressure changes over time measured by an array of pressure sensors due to breathing in a pneumonia patient with a wet cough. The location, intensity, and / or frequency of these pressure changes may vary depending on the user's condition.

[0128] This disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings; however, these are merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent embodiments are possible therefrom. Therefore, the true technical scope of this disclosure should be determined by the technical spirit of the appended claims.

[0129] Respiratory monitoring devices can measure two-dimensional changes in pressure over time caused by a user's breathing to obtain the user's breathing pattern, thereby enabling analysis of the user's breathing habits and respiratory diseases. As described above, according to some embodiments, the respiratory monitoring device can be fixed to the user's face via a mask and can operate without the use of a separate battery, allowing for long-term respiratory pattern analysis without interfering with the user's activities. Furthermore, because each layer of the pressure sensor array can include a breathable nanofiber sheet with multiple pores, the sensation of a foreign body when the user breathes can be reduced.

[0130] Electronic or electrical devices and / or any other related devices or components according to embodiments of the disclosure described herein can be implemented using any suitable hardware, firmware (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits), software, or a combination of software, firmware, and hardware. For example, various components of these devices can be formed on an integrated circuit (IC) chip or on a separate IC chip. Furthermore, various components of these devices can be implemented on flexible printed circuit films, tape-on-a-carrier packages (TCPs), printed circuit boards (PCBs), or formed on a substrate. Additionally, various components of these devices can be processes or threads that run on one or more processors in one or more computing devices, execute computer program instructions, and interact with other system components for performing the various functions described herein. The computer program instructions are stored in memory, which can be implemented in the computing device using standard memory devices (e.g., random access memory (RAM)). The computer program instructions can also be stored on other non-transitory computer-readable media, such as CD-ROMs, flash drives, etc. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that, without departing from the spirit and scope of the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the functions of various computing devices may be combined or integrated into a single computing device, or the functions of a particular computing device may be distributed across one or more other computing devices.

[0131] The foregoing is a description of some embodiments of this disclosure and should not be construed as limiting it. Although some embodiments have been described, those skilled in the art will readily understand that various modifications can be made to the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that, unless otherwise described, the description of features or aspects within each embodiment should generally be considered applicable to other similar features or aspects in other embodiments. Therefore, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, unless specifically indicated otherwise, features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with a particular embodiment can be used alone or in combination with features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with other embodiments. Therefore, it should be understood that the foregoing is a description of various exemplary embodiments and should not be construed as limiting to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, and various modifications to the disclosed embodiments and other exemplary embodiments are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims equivalents.

Claims

1. A pressure sensor array, comprising: The first sheet includes a first electrode that extends in a first direction and is spaced apart from each other along a second direction that intersects the first direction. The second sheet includes a second electrode that extends in the second direction and is spaced apart from each other along the first direction; as well as A third piece, situated between the first piece and the second piece, and comprising: A partition wall defining a plurality of holes spaced apart from each other in the first direction and the second direction; as well as A pressure-sensitive layer is located on the inner surface of each of the plurality of holes.

2. The pressure sensor array of claim 1, wherein each of the first, second, and third plates comprises nanofibers.

3. The pressure sensor array of claim 1, wherein each of the first electrode and the second electrode comprises metal-coated nanofibers.

4. The pressure sensor array according to claim 1, wherein the partition wall comprises an elastomer.

5. The pressure sensor array according to claim 1, wherein each layer of the pressure-sensitive layer comprises nanofibers coated with conductive particles.

6. The pressure sensor array according to claim 5, wherein the nanofibers are bonded to the conductive particles via imide bonding.

7. The pressure sensor array according to claim 1, wherein each layer of the pressure-sensitive layer overlaps with a corresponding one of the plurality of cross regions, wherein the first electrode crosses with the second electrode in the plurality of cross regions.

8. Respiratory monitoring equipment, including: A pressure sensor array configured to sense pressure changes caused by a user's breathing; A transponder configured to supply voltage to the pressure sensor array, convert sensing signals received from the pressure sensor array into data signals, and transmit the converted data signals; A reader configured to supply voltage to the transponder via inductive coupling and to receive the data signal from the transponder; as well as A face mask portion configured to secure the pressure sensor array and the transponder to the user's face. The pressure sensor array includes: The first sheet includes a first electrode that extends in a first direction and is spaced apart from each other along a second direction that intersects the first direction. The second sheet includes a second electrode extending in the second direction and spaced apart from each other along the first direction; and A third piece, situated between the first piece and the second piece, and comprising: A partition wall defining a plurality of holes spaced apart from each other in the first direction and the second direction; and A pressure-sensitive layer is located on the inner surface of each of the plurality of holes.

9. The respiratory monitoring device according to claim 8, wherein each of the first, second, and third sheets comprises nanofibers.

10. The respiratory monitoring device of claim 8, wherein each of the first electrode and the second electrode comprises metal-coated nanofibers.

11. The respiratory monitoring device according to claim 8, wherein the partition wall comprises an elastomer.

12. The respiratory monitoring device according to claim 8, wherein each layer of the pressure-sensitive layer comprises nanofibers coated with conductive particles.

13. The respiratory monitoring device according to claim 12, wherein the nanofibers are bonded to the conductive particles via imide bonding.

14. The respiratory monitoring device according to claim 8, wherein each layer of the pressure-sensitive layer overlaps with a corresponding one of the plurality of cross regions, wherein the first electrode crosses with the second electrode in the plurality of cross regions.

15. The respiratory monitoring device according to claim 8, wherein the transponder comprises: First antenna; A rectifier configured to convert an AC voltage received through the first antenna into a DC voltage; A pressure sensor reader configured to input a drive signal to the pressure sensor array, receive a sensing signal from the pressure sensor array, and convert the sensing signal into a first signal; A data serializer configured to serialize the first signal, convert the serialized first signal into the data signal, and change the voltage level of the first antenna according to the data signal; as well as A power manager configured to receive the DC voltage from the rectifier and to distribute the DC voltage.

16. The respiratory monitoring device according to claim 15, wherein the reader comprises: Second antenna; An amplifier configured to generate the AC voltage based on an input clock signal; A matching network configured to transmit the AC voltage from the amplifier to the second antenna; A signal processor configured to sense the voltage level of the first antenna; as well as A data demodulator configured to demodulate the data signal based on the voltage level of the first antenna.

17. The respiratory monitoring device of claim 16, wherein the AC voltage comprises a sine wave of approximately 433 MHz.

18. The respiratory monitoring device of claim 8, further comprising a display connected to the mask portion and configured to display the user's respiratory information.

19. The respiratory monitoring device of claim 18, wherein the display comprises a reflective display panel.

20. The respiratory monitoring device of claim 18, wherein the reader is configured to generate a control signal including the user's respiratory information based on the data signal, and to transmit the control signal to the transponder; and The transponder is configured to transmit the control signal to the display.

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