Force sensor

Abstract

The invention relates to a force sensor, comprising: an active layer, wherein an electric variable of the force sensor depends on a force acting on the active layer such that by way of a change to the force acting on the active layer, a change to the electric variable is effected; wherein the force sensor comprises an attachment which is arranged relative to the active layer such that a force acting from the outside on the force sensor is conducted onto the active layer by means of the attachment. The invention also relates to a sensor group, an assembly, a set for positioning sensors on opposite regions of a head, a sensor holder for receiving at least one sensor, and uses and methods using the force sensor.

Description

[0001] FORCE SENSOR

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The disclosure relates to a force sensor, a sensor group with two force sensors, an assembly with a force sensor and a further sensor, a set with at least one force sensor for positioning on a head, a sensor holder for receiving at least one force sensor and uses and methods for applying these components, in particular for patients.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] Force sensors with different basic technologies are known.

[0007] SHORT DESCRIPTION

[0008] The inventors have recognized that it can be expedient for patients to position one or more force sensors on the patient's body in order to use the force sensors to non-invasively detect forces occurring on the body. Through this non-invasive detection of such forces, movements or expansions of muscles, veins, the skull, or other areas of the body can be determined without major interventions. The inventors have recognized that for such applications on a patient's body, which is sometimes difficult to access and sometimes constantly and not always uniformly moving, the force sensors according to the prior art are not sufficient to reliably detect such forces occurring on the body. It is therefore the object of the present disclosure to provide a force sensor that can detect forces more reliably.

[0009] This object is achieved with a force sensor according to main claim i. The force sensor according to the invention is preferably for detecting forces occurring on a head, and the force sensor comprises: an active layer, wherein an electrical variable (e.g. electrical resistance or electrical voltage) of the force sensor depends on a force acting on the active layer in such a way that a change in the force acting on the active layer causes a change in the electrical variable, wherein the force sensor comprises an attachment which is arranged relative to the active layer in such a way that a force acting on the force sensor from the outside is guided to the active layer by means of the attachment (e.g. through the attachment).The force sensor includes an attachment positioned relative to the active layer in such a way that an external force acting on the force sensor is transmitted to the active layer via the attachment, increasing the reliability of force detection. The attachment helps ensure that the force acting on the force sensor reaches the active layer.

[0010] The attachment is beneficial for introducing the force to be detected onto the active layer: The attachment and its aforementioned arrangement relative to the active layer can increase the probability that the force to be detected will also be introduced onto the active layer. For example, due to the conditions surrounding the force sensor, it may not be reliably possible to introduce the force to be detected directly onto the active layer, whereas the attachment with the aforementioned arrangement relative to the active layer still allows the force to be detected to be introduced onto the active layer by acting on the attachment. This allows the force to be detected to be detected more reliably. The attachment is particularly advantageous in areas of a patient's body that are sometimes difficult to access and sometimes move constantly and not always uniformly.

[0011] In addition, the attachment reduces the probability that forces to be detected in areas outside the active layer or the active surface of the active layer do not act on the active layer. In this respect, the attachment focuses the occurring forces. This also increases the reliability of the detection of the forces to be detected.

[0012] According to a preferred aspect of the force sensor according to the invention, the attachment can rest on a surface (e.g., the active area) of the active layer, which can be particularly effective with regard to the above-mentioned advantages of the attachment. This surface can be, for example, on a front or back side of the active layer. The attachment can be attached, preferably releasably, to the force sensor or to the active layer using a fastening means (e.g., a film or an adhesive such as an adhesive film).

[0013] In addition, the attachment reduces the force sensor's susceptibility to interference, thereby further increasing the reliability of force detection. In a force sensor environment with a wide range of movements, particularly around a patient's body (the patient rarely remains completely motionless), constant movement creates disruptive forces from a variety of sources that can interfere with the detection of the actual force. The attachment and its aforementioned positioning relative to the active layer can reduce the likelihood that undetectable forces are also transmitted to the active layer. For example, the attachment can be positioned so that the desired rather than undesired forces are detected.

[0014] According to a preferred aspect of the force sensor according to the invention, a first cross-section through the attachment can have a larger cross-sectional area than a second cross-section through the attachment, wherein the second cross-section is further away from the active layer and / or an active area of ​​the active layer than the first cross-section. In other words, the attachment can be tapered in a direction leading away from the active layer and / or the active area of ​​the active layer. Due to this configuration of the shape of the attachment, the attachment can have a selective effect on the forces such that the area to which the detected force on the force sensor originally couples is smaller than the active layer or the active area of ​​the active layer. Thus, the region in which occurring forces are detected can be further limited and thus the above-described susceptibility to interference due to the detection of unwanted forces can be further reduced.The object is further achieved by a sensor group according to the invention, comprising: a first force sensor according to the invention and a second force sensor according to the invention, wherein the first force sensor and the second force sensor are electrically connected in parallel. By connecting the resistors of the two force sensors in parallel, the sensitivity of force detection can be increased, which also contributes to the reliability of force detection. By connecting the resistors of the two force sensors in parallel, the change in the detected force is amplified by the total resistance of the individual resistors of the force sensors connected in parallel.

[0015] Preferably, an assembly according to the invention is further provided, comprising: a force sensor according to the invention; a further sensor which is designed to transmit and / or receive a signal via an active sensor surface of the further sensor; wherein the force sensor is attached to a side surface of the further sensor, preferably opposite the active sensor surface, such that the attachment, in particular its second side surface, faces away from the side surface of the further sensor. By arranging the force sensor and the further sensor in the assembly, the measurements with the further sensor and the measurements with the force sensor can be carried out in parallel and in the same spatial area. Thus, effects (for example movements or expansions of the patient's body) which are related to the force to be detected can be qualitatively taken into account during the measurement with the further sensor.This can make these measurements more precise and / or more meaningful. For example, the additional sensor can be an ultrasound probe used to perform ultrasound measurements, for example, on the patient's skull. During these ultrasound measurements, movements or expansions of the patient's body, which are detected by the force sensor, can be qualitatively taken into account in the evaluation of the ultrasound measurements.

[0016] In connection with patients, it may be desirable to attach one or more of the force sensors according to the invention, either alone or in combination with one or more other sensors, to a body part of a patient, such as a head, and to detect forces occurring there. In previous approaches, sensors were attached to the body part with a band, such as a headband, in order to carry out a diagnostic examination. Such a band has an elastic band which can be applied all the way around the body part. Due to the elasticity of the band, a restoring force of the band causes the band to be pressed against the body part in a circumferential area and fixed thereto. In the case of a head, the headband is preferably applied in a forehead area, a back area and on opposite lateral areas of the head above the ears.Furthermore, one or more sensor caps are often provided on the band, each designed to have an opening on two opposite sides for the headband to pass through. The band and the sensor caps are configured such that the sensor caps, with the sensors located therein, are pressed against the body part by the band between the band and the body part. This allows the sensor caps and the sensors to be held and positioned on the body part.

[0017] However, such solutions using bands have proven disadvantageous for certain, particularly medical, examinations on the head for several reasons, while bands or other supports can be used for other detections on the head or for examinations on other parts of the body.

[0018] Firstly, it is difficult to position the sensor caps with the sensors reproducibly on the head of the same patient. In the case of head injuries, a parameter of the head is observed on the same patient over an extended period of time. For this purpose, measurements are taken on the head of the same patient at intervals to determine how the condition develops over time. For this purpose, the headband must be removed from the patient's head several times and then reattached for a new measurement. In this case, it may not be possible to reproduce the sensor position from a previous measurement in a subsequent measurement. This inaccuracy or lack of reproducibility of the sensor positions falsifies the measured values ​​of the series of measurements for certain examinations and can lead to medical misdiagnosis.

[0019] Furthermore, the positioning of the sensors on the head has proven too inaccurate for certain examinations, as the position of the sensors along the headband and the position of the headband on the head can vary. This results in the alignment of the sensors being too inaccurate for certain examinations, making it impossible to adjust the sensor field of observation with sufficient precision.

[0020] Second, the sensors cannot be coupled to the head effectively enough for certain examinations. The headband applies a uniform contact pressure to the entire circumference of the head. This means that only a small portion of the contact pressure is applied to the sensors, and a higher contact pressure than is normally necessary must be set to couple the sensors. This is particularly disadvantageous in cases of head injuries.

[0021] In addition, the contact pressure depends on the adjustment of the headband, which means that the contact pressure can vary between different measurements, which is disadvantageous when comparing the measured values ​​for specific examinations.

[0022] Furthermore, the use of such a headband has proven disadvantageous for certain examinations, as the patient's head must be lifted to apply the headband. Lifting the head is undesirable, especially in cases of head injuries, as it can cause further injury and pain for the patient or interfere with life-sustaining therapies (e.g., a ventilation tube).

[0023] The inventors have discovered that reproducible positioning of the sensors at defined areas on the head has a major influence on the results of such examinations.

[0024] Therefore, the invention also preferably provides a set for positioning sensors on opposite regions of a head, the set comprising: one or more force sensors according to the invention; a headband designed to at least partially surround the head; sensor caps arranged on opposite regions of the headband, each designed to receive at least one of the force sensors; and a nosepiece connected to the headband, which is designed to support the headband on the bridge of the nose. Two or more sensors improve the signal-to-noise ratio, but the structures described here are also possible with only one force sensor.

[0025] Throughout this disclosure, the term "sensor cap" may be replaced with "sensor holder." The term "sensor cap" is synonymous with "sensor holder" herein. The sensor holder may comprise a container for receiving, holding, and optionally supporting the force sensor.

[0026] Against the background described above, the set according to the invention makes it possible to overcome the disadvantages of the headband mentioned at least for certain examinations and, in particular, to better carry out non-invasive diagnostic examinations on a patient's head.

[0027] The headband and its attached sensor caps determine the position of the sensors on the head. The positioning of the sensor caps on opposite parts of the headband ensures that the sensors in the sensor caps are positioned on opposite parts of the head, ensuring they are symmetrically positioned on the head and preferably aligned with each other.

[0028] The nosepiece, connected to the headband, supports the headband against the bridge of the nose. This allows the position of the headband and its attached sensor caps to be aligned with a predefined reference point on the patient's head, i.e., the nose. Using the inventive assembly, sensors can be positioned more precisely at predetermined positions on the head.

[0029] Furthermore, the reference point improves the reproducibility of the areas on the head where the sensors are applied, as the reference point, i.e., the position of the nose, does not change for a given patient. Furthermore, the position of the reference point, i.e., the nose, on the head is very similar for different patients with similar head sizes, thus enabling reproducibility of the sensor positions between patients of similar head sizes. Furthermore, the inventors discovered that the pressure applied by the sensors to the head often has a further significant influence on the results of diagnostic examinations.

[0030] According to the inventive set, the contact pressure with which the sensors in the sensor caps rest on the head is essentially determined by the headband. Since the head diameter does not change for an individual patient and the position of the sensors on the head is reproducible, the contact pressure of the sensors on the head is easily reproducible between individual examinations. Furthermore, the head diameters for a class of patients (e.g., children or adults) are at least similar, so the contact pressure is at least similar for different patients within a class.

[0031] Furthermore, the use of such a headband has proven particularly effective in practice for patients with head injuries. A headband can be applied to the head from one side. Applying the headband no longer necessarily requires lifting the patient's head, which is advantageous for patients with a head injury.

[0032] In addition to the force sensors, further sensors can be accommodated in the sensor caps, e.g. one force sensor and one further sensor per sensor cap. The further sensor can, for example, comprise an emitter for outputting signals and / or a detector for receiving output signals. Based on the interaction of the signals with the head, conclusions can be drawn about a parameter of the head, in particular within the skull. In some aspects, an emitter is positioned on one side of the head and a detector is positioned on an opposite side of the head in order to detect the emitted signals through the head. In other aspects, an emitter and a detector can each be positioned on one side of the head.

[0033] The inventive set has proven particularly useful for the non-invasive determination of intracranial pressure. For determining intracranial pressure, the sensors comprise an emitter as a sensor for emitting ultrasound signals and a detector as a sensor for receiving the emitted ultrasound signals. These sensors can be positioned on opposite regions of the head using the set. Based on the travel time of the ultrasound signals through the head, intracranial pressure can be classified.

[0034] Further preferred aspects of the set are explained below.

[0035] According to a preferred aspect, the nose clip is connected to the headband in a region of the headband approximately centrally between the sensor caps.

[0036] This relative arrangement of the headband adapts the headset to the anatomy of the head, ensuring that the sensor caps are symmetrically aligned on the head in opposing areas. This is especially true because the nose is positioned approximately centrally on the face in one area. By positioning the nosepiece approximately centrally between the sensor caps on the headband, the headband is centered on the head.

[0037] According to a preferred aspect, the headband at least partially surrounds an axis in a first plane extending perpendicular to the axis, wherein the nosepiece intersects the first plane, preferably in a direction approximately perpendicular to the first plane.

[0038] This arrangement allows the relative positioning of the headband and nosepiece to be particularly effectively adapted to the anatomy of the head, as the headband partially encircles the head and the nosepiece rests on the bridge of the nose.

[0039] In some particularly preferred aspects, the nose bridge can extend from the headband in a direction approximately perpendicular to the first plane. For example, the nose bridge can be formed approximately coaxially with the direction approximately perpendicular to the first plane.

[0040] According to these aspects, the headband encircles the head approximately in a frontal region, preferably in the forehead area, when the nosepiece is positioned on the bridge of the nose. This keeps the upper half of the head free for other medical measuring devices or invasive devices for treating an injury. In this aspect, the length of the nosepiece can be designed to be particularly short, thereby improving the stability of the assembly, particularly the nosepiece.

[0041] According to a preferred aspect, the nose bridge has an end piece at an end opposite the headband, wherein the end piece has a preferably approximately bow-shaped indentation aligned approximately along the axis, which is designed to prevent a relative movement of the nose bridge to the bridge of the nose in a direction parallel to a frontal plane of the head and parallel to the first plane.

[0042] Such an end piece reduces relative movement of the assembly relative to the head. This improves the stability of the assembly's alignment with the head. This reduces the possibility of the assembly shifting position on the head.

[0043] According to a preferred aspect, the nose bridge has a length of 2 cm - 7 cm, preferably about 5 cm or less, starting from the connection to the headband.

[0044] In particularly preferred embodiments, the length of the nose bridge is measured in a direction approximately transverse to the first plane between the approximately central region of the headband between the sensor caps and a region of the nose bridge which, according to the application, rests on the bridge of the nose.

[0045] The length of the nose bridge determines, at least in part, the positioning of the headband and thus of the sensor caps on the head. The inventors discovered that this design of the nose bridge particularly closely mirrors the head anatomy of a large number of patients. The sensors can thus be positioned at predetermined positions on the head for the vast majority of patients.

[0046] According to a preferred aspect, the sensor caps have a distance of 10 cm - 17 cm, 11 cm - 16 cm or about 13 cm from the nose bridge.

[0047] In some particularly preferred embodiments, the distance along the headband between a sensor cap and the nosepiece is measured. The distance between the sensor caps and the nosepiece determines the positioning of the sensor caps on the head relative to the position of the nose. The inventors have further discovered that this headband design specifically maps the anatomy of the head of a variety of patients for positioning the sensor caps on the head. Thus, the sensor caps can be positioned at the specified positions on the head for a vast majority of patients.

[0048] For example, the headband can be designed such that it can be placed approximately parallel to a transverse plane of the head, so that the sensor caps are arranged in an area approximately above the ear canal on opposite areas of the head. In particularly preferred aspects, the headband can be designed such that one sensor cap is arranged in an area between the T3 position and the T5 position, preferably at a distance of 3.5-4.5 cm from the T3 position, and one sensor cap is arranged between the area of ​​the T4 and the T6 position, preferably at a distance of 3.5-4.5 cm from the T4 position. In particular, one sensor cap can be arranged in each area of ​​the fascia of the temporalis muscle.

[0049] According to a preferred aspect, each sensor cap comprises a preferably approximately cylindrical recess for receiving a sensor, which recess has an opening on one side and is at least partially delimited by the sensor cap on a bottom side of the sensor cap opposite the opening and on at least one side surface of the sensor cap.

[0050] In use, a sensor is inserted through the opening in the sensor caps into the recess in the sensor caps. After insertion, a sensor is positioned in the recess of a sensor cap. The sensor is then exposed on one front side through the opening in the sensor cap, allowing the front of the sensor to rest directly against the head. On the remaining sides, the sensor is at least partially surrounded by the sensor cap, so that it is held in the sensor cap and can be pressed against the head by the sensor cap.

[0051] In particularly preferred aspects, the depth of the recess from the opening to the bottom side is dimensioned such that a sensor inserted into the recess protrudes at least partially beyond an edge of the sensor cap surrounding the opening. This allows the contact pressure exerted on the head by the headband to be focused on the sensors in the sensor caps.

[0052] According to a preferred aspect, the openings of the sensor caps face each other.

[0053] According to this aspect, sensors arranged in the recesses of the sensor caps located on opposite areas of the head are aligned with each other. Since the sensors in the sensor caps are directly in contact with the head through the openings, it can be ensured that signals emitted and detected by the sensors travel directly through the head to the respective opposite sensor without passing through further sections, for example, the sensor cap.

[0054] According to a preferred aspect, the sensor cap has, at a preferably approximately central position on the bottom side, a preferably approximately hemispherical elevation directed in the direction of the opening, which represents a stop and / or adjustment aid for a sensor.

[0055] According to this aspect, the orientation of the sensor can adapt to a surface of the head so that the sensor rests optimally on the surface of the head. A sensor located in the recess is pressed against the head by the sensor cap connected to the headband. The protrusion forms a stop for the back of the sensor facing away from the head. Thus, a sensor strikes the protrusion in a partial area of ​​the back, with the remaining areas of the back that do not strike the protrusion being exposed towards the bottom by the protrusion. This allows the sensor to adapt its orientation so that this plane rests on the head when pressure is exerted on the front of the sensor by a surface of the head.

[0056] According to a preferred aspect, each sensor cap has at least one through-opening into the recess through the at least one side surface, wherein the through-opening opens into the opening of the recess via a through-opening region.

[0057] A sensor can, for example, communicate with a processing unit via a sensor cable to exchange signals. The sensor cable can be connected to the sensor or connectable. A sensor has a front side configured to rest against a head and a rear side opposite the front side. The cable can protrude from the sensor in a direction approximately perpendicular to a direction perpendicular to the front and rear sides.

[0058] When a sensor connected to a sensor cable is inserted through the opening of the recess into the sensor cap, the sensor cable can be inserted through the feedthrough area into the feedthrough opening at the same time as the sensor is inserted into the recess. This advantageously guides the sensor cable away from the sensor in the recess through the sensor cap. Furthermore, the cable is at least partially circumferentially limited by the sensor cap, thereby limiting the sensor's mobility in the recess. For example, this prevents twisting in the direction perpendicular to the front and back.

[0059] According to a preferred aspect, the feedthrough region has a taper relative to a diameter of the feedthrough opening.

[0060] When a sensor connected to a sensor cable is inserted into the recess while simultaneously passing the sensor cable through the feedthrough area into the feedthrough opening, the sensor cable overcomes the taper by exerting a force. When the sensor is positioned in the recess and the sensor cable is in the feedthrough opening, the taper prevents the sensor cable from sliding out of the feedthrough opening via the feedthrough area. This prevents a sensor connected to the sensor cable from sliding out of the recess in the sensor cap.

[0061] According to a preferred aspect, each sensor cap has a further opening which at least partially exposes the recess through the at least one side surface and / or through the bottom side.

[0062] According to this aspect, a sensor arranged in the recess is at least partially exposed laterally and / or on its rear side through the further opening of the sensor cap surrounding the sensor. The regions of the sensor exposed by the further opening are thus accessible from outside the sensor cap. This makes it easier to remove a sensor from the recess in the sensor cap. According to a preferred aspect, each sensor cap has a further recess for receiving a magnet on a side opposite the opening of the recess.

[0063] The sensors can preferably be paramagnetic, preferably having a paramagnetic backing. By positioning a magnet on the side of the sensor cap opposite the opening of the recess, the magnet and the sensor cap are attracted to each other by a magnetic force, so that a force acts on the sensor toward the bottom side and the sensor is held in the recess of the sensor cap.

[0064] According to a preferred aspect, the fitting comprises a magnet which can be fastened to one of the sensor caps, preferably in the further recess.

[0065] According to a preferred aspect, such a magnet can be attached to the back of the sensor cap via an approximately clamp-shaped holder. According to a preferred aspect, the magnet can be secured in the further recess, for example, by means of an adhesive or a cover covering the further recess.

[0066] According to a preferred aspect, the set comprises at least three preferably clip-shaped markers which can be attached to different areas on the nose bridge, the headband and / or the sensor caps.

[0067] These markers are detectable in various imaging techniques. This allows the positioning of the clothing relative to the head to be represented in an image of the head with the clothing.

[0068] For example, the markers are designed in such a way that they are visible in an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan of the head with the headband. This makes the positioning of the headband on the head visible in the MRI scan. This allows the examined areas of the head to be linked to spatial planes of the MRI scan. Furthermore, a three-dimensional view can be captured in the visible area of ​​a head with the headband. Such a view can preferably be captured and created using a stereo camera or a camera from different perspectives.

[0069] In a further step, the three-dimensional view of the head with the headgear in the visible range and the MRI image of the head with the headgear can be superimposed using the markers. This allows information to be obtained about the positioning of the headgear and the areas of the head traversed by the signals.

[0070] According to a preferred aspect, the markers each have a marker body made of the same material as the nose bridge, the headband and / or the sensor caps.

[0071] Preferably, the marker body, the nose bridge, the headband and the sensor caps can be made of the same material.

[0072] The material in the marker bodies makes the markers and their bodies more easily distinguishable from the accessories in an MRI scan. This allows the positioning of the accessories and sensors on the head to be determined three-dimensionally.

[0073] According to a preferred aspect, the fitting further comprises at least one preferably approximately disc-shaped pad which can be attached to one of the sensor caps and / or the headband and has a hole such that, when the pad is attached to the sensor cap and / or the headband, the hole is aligned with the opening of the sensor cap such that a sensor arranged in the recess of the sensor cap rests above or through the opening and above or through the hole on the head or scalp. The edge of the hole of the pad can completely enclose or run around the opening of the sensor cap; for example, the outer diameter of the opening can be smaller than the inner diameter of the hole. The hole and / or opening can be circular. Preferably, the pad can be releasably attached to one of the sensor caps and / or the headband, for example by means of an adhesive.Preferably, the pad is designed to adhere to the scalp, for example, using an adhesive. Such a pad is designed to fit between the head and the sensor cap, depending on the application. A sensor located in the recess of the sensor cap is exposed through the hole in the pad. The pad can be glued, for example, to the sensor cap and / or the sensor headband.

[0074] Such a pad improves the adhesion of the sensor cap to the head. This reduces the risk of the device shifting its position on the head. The pad preferably has a relatively high coefficient of friction with the head, particularly the scalp. Furthermore, the pad can be elastically designed so that it is compressed by force exerted by the head and the sensor cap, allowing the sensor to rest against an area of ​​the head. Such a pad can be made of silicone, for example.

[0075] According to a preferred aspect, the pad preferably protrudes beyond lateral edges of the sensor cap and has a gap through which a portion of the head or scalp can be marked when the pad is attached to the sensor cap and / or the headband.

[0076] When the headgear is pressed against the head with such a pad, an area of ​​the head exposed by the gap can be marked. The markings remain visible even after the headgear has been removed, allowing the headgear to be reattached to the same position on the head after removal using the markings created in this way.

[0077] According to a preferred aspect, the headband comprises: a curved section which preferably encircles the axis in an approximately semicircular manner in the first plane; two approximately rectilinear sections, each of which merges into the curved region at a first end and at whose opposite second end a sensor cap is located; wherein the two approximately rectilinear sections converge towards each other starting from the respective first end.

[0078] This aspect ensures that the pressure exerted by the headband is focused on the sensor caps and the sensors contained therein.

[0079] According to a preferred aspect, the approximately rectilinear sections each enclose an angle of 75°-85°, 77°-83° or approximately 80° with a second plane oriented perpendicular to the first plane through the first ends of the two approximately rectilinear sections.

[0080] The inventors have discovered that such an angle ensures that a sufficient contact pressure can be achieved for a large number of patients without the headband touching the head, while the headband runs approximately semicircularly between the respective first ends.

[0081] According to a preferred aspect, the headband is elastically designed, preferably as a bending spring.

[0082] The fitting can, for example, be designed such that a diameter measured between the opposing sensor caps is smaller than a transverse diameter of the head, preferably in a region above the ear canals.

[0083] The elasticity and the associated restoring force of the headband ensure that the headband presses the sensor caps and the sensors contained therein against the sides of the head. This allows the headset to be secured to a patient's head, at least temporarily.

[0084] According to a preferred aspect, the headband, nose bridge, and sensor caps are preferably formed integrally from the same material. In other preferred aspects, configurations are also possible in which the headband, nose bridge, and sensor caps are formed from different parts and / or different materials and can be fixed to one another.

[0085] This ensures sufficient rigidity of the assembly so that a change in the position of the sensor caps between individual measurements is avoided.

[0086] The assembly is preferably designed such that the relative positions of the sensor caps, headband, and nosepiece cannot be changed between individual measurements. This means that the positions of the sensor caps, headband, and nosepiece are consistent at least between individual measurements. For this purpose, according to a preferred aspect, the sensor caps, headband, and nosepiece are formed as a single piece or at least can be fixed to one another. According to a preferred aspect, the material is a biocompatible material, preferably a polyamide PA12, particularly preferably PA2200.

[0087] Biocompatible material doesn't trigger toxicological processes. This makes it comfortable to wear and relatively lightweight. This type of material is particularly advantageous if the headgear is worn for extended periods.

[0088] In addition, such a material is suitable for performing MRI measurements on the head with the headgear on, as it does not have any magnetic or paramagnetic properties.

[0089] In further aspects, a particularly advantageous sensor cap for positioning sensors on a head is provided.

[0090] According to a preferred aspect, a sensor cap is provided for receiving at least one sensor, wherein the sensor cap comprises: a preferably approximately cylindrical recess for receiving a sensor, wherein the recess has an opening on one side and is at least partially delimited by the sensor cap on a bottom side of the sensor cap opposite the opening and on at least one side surface of the sensor cap.

[0091] Such a sensor cap is designed to accommodate a sensor in the recess. A front side of the sensor is exposed through the opening, allowing the front side to rest against a patient's head. The sensor is delimited and held in position by the bottom side and at least one side surface in the recess.

[0092] According to a preferred aspect, the sensor cap has, at a preferably approximately central position on the bottom side, a preferably approximately hemispherical elevation directed in the direction of the opening.

[0093] When the front of the sensor is placed against a surface of the head, the sensor can adapt its orientation to the surface of the head.

[0094] According to a preferred aspect, the sensor cap has a through-opening into the recess through the at least one side surface, wherein the through-opening opens into the opening of the recess via a through-opening region.

[0095] When a sensor connected to a sensor cable is inserted through the opening of the recess into the sensor cap, the sensor cable can be inserted through the feedthrough area into the feedthrough opening at the same time as the sensor is inserted into the recess. This advantageously guides the sensor cable away from the sensor in the recess through the sensor cap. Furthermore, the cable is at least partially circumferentially limited by the sensor cap, thereby limiting the sensor's mobility in the recess. For example, this prevents twisting in the direction perpendicular to the front and back.

[0096] According to a preferred aspect, the feedthrough region has a taper relative to a diameter of the feedthrough opening.

[0097] The tapered section holds a sensor cable connected to the sensor in the feedthrough opening. This allows a sensor connected to the sensor cable to be held in the recess.

[0098] According to a preferred aspect, the sensor cap has a further opening which at least partially exposes the recess through the at least one side surface and / or through the bottom side.

[0099] The areas of the sensor exposed by the wider opening are accessible from outside the sensor cap. This makes it easier to remove the sensor from the recess in the sensor cap. Furthermore, heat dissipation from the sensor is improved because these areas are not enclosed by the sensor cap.

[0100] According to a preferred aspect, the sensor cap has a further recess with a magnet on a side opposite the opening of the recess.

[0101] By positioning a magnet on the side of the sensor cap opposite the opening of the recess, the magnet and the sensor cap are pulled toward each other by a magnetic force, so that a force acts on the sensor toward the bottom side and the sensor is held in the recess. Furthermore, the aforementioned object is achieved by a method for producing the previously described assembly or for producing a sensor cap, the method comprising producing the assembly or the sensor cap using 3D printing.

[0102] With this manufacturing process, both the set and the sensor cap can be manufactured particularly efficiently and individually for each patient. In particular, 3D printing allows the set and the sensor caps to be manufactured particularly effectively as a single piece.

[0103] Furthermore, the object is achieved by using the initially described fitting, comprising the steps of: inserting at least one sensor into a recess of a sensor cap; positioning the fitting on the head such that the sensors in the sensor caps rest on opposite sides of the head and the nosepiece rests on the bridge of the nose.

[0104] By using such a set, sensors arranged in the sensor caps can be applied to the opposite areas of the head for a measurement.

[0105] According to a preferred aspect, the insertion of at least one sensor into a recess of a sensor cap comprises: During the insertion of the at least one sensor into the recess of a sensor cap, passing a sensor cable connected to the sensor through the feedthrough area into the feedthrough opening in order to engage the cable through the taper.

[0106] This allows a sensor to be held in the recess of the sensor cap.

[0107] According to a preferred aspect, inserting at least one sensor into a recess of a sensor cap comprises: inserting the at least one sensor into the recess of a sensor cap until a rear side of the sensor strikes the bottom side or the elevation.

[0108] By stopping at the elevation, the sensor can adjust its orientation under the influence of pressure exerted on the sensor by the head. According to the invention, a sensor cap for receiving at least one sensor is also provided, the sensor cap comprising: a force sensor according to the invention; a preferably approximately cylindrical recess for receiving the force sensor, wherein the recess has an opening on one side and is at least partially delimited by the sensor cap on a bottom side of the sensor cap opposite the opening and on at least one side surface of the sensor cap.

[0109] The force sensor according to the invention, the sensor group according to the invention, the assembly according to the invention, the fitting according to the invention and the sensor cap according to the invention can be used particularly advantageously for detecting a carlot movement of a skull.

[0110] A computer-assisted method according to the invention for detecting a carlot movement of a skull of a head by means of a fitting according to the invention arranged on the head can comprise: detecting an electrical signal generated by the electrical quantity of at least one of the force sensors; and detecting the carlot movement based on the detected electrical signal.

[0111] A further computer-assisted method according to the invention for determining a physiological parameter of a patient by means of at least one force sensor according to the invention arranged on a region of a body part, preferably a vein such as an artery, can comprise: detecting an electrical signal generated by the electrical quantity of the force sensor; and determining the physiological parameter based on the detected electrical signal.

[0112] A further computer-assisted method according to the invention for generating a control signal for a software application by means of a fitting according to the invention arranged on a body part, preferably a head, can comprise: detecting a pattern in an electrical signal generated by the electrical quantity of at least one of the force sensors; and in response to the detected pattern, generating a control signal for a function of the software application.

[0113] In the following, further properties, features and advantages of the disclosure will become clear by describing preferred embodiments of the disclosure with reference to the accompanying exemplary drawings, in which:

[0114] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 A to C show examples of force sensors according to the invention with differently shaped attachments.

[0115] Fig. 2 A to B show examples of force sensors according to the invention with attachments placed at different locations relative to the active layer.

[0116] Fig. 3 A shows an example of a sensor group according to the invention in a set according to the invention, as well as a measuring apparatus.

[0117] Fig. 3 B to C show examples of the measurement results obtained with the measuring apparatus according to Figure 3 A.

[0118] Fig. 4 shows an example of an assembly according to the invention comprising a force sensor according to the invention and a further sensor

[0119] Fig. 5 A shows an example of a force sensor according to the invention in a measuring apparatus.

[0120] Fig. 5 B shows an example of the measurement results obtained with the measuring apparatus according to Fig. 5 A.

[0121] Fig. 6 shows an example of a perspective view of a set.

[0122] Fig. 7 shows an example of a top view of a set.

[0123] Fig. 8 shows an enlarged view of a sensor cap as an example.

[0124] Fig. 9 shows an example of a perspective view of a set of markers.

[0125] The features disclosed in the above description, the figures and the claims may be important both individually and in any combination for the realization of the disclosure in the various embodiments.

[0126] Reference symbols in the figures refer to the same elements.

[0127] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0128] Figures 1 and 2 show exemplary preferred implementations of the force sensor 1000 according to the invention. As can be seen from the figures, the force sensor 1000 comprises an active layer 1001, wherein an electrical variable of the force sensor 1000 depends on a force F acting on the active layer 1001 in such a way that a change in the force acting on the active layer 1001 causes a change in the electrical variable. The force sensor 1000 further comprises an attachment 1002, which is arranged relative to the active layer 1001 in such a way that a force acting externally on the force sensor 1000 is guided by means of the attachment 1002 (e.g. through the attachment) to the active layer 1001. The attachment thus contributes to the force acting on the force sensor

[0129] 1000 acting force F reaches the active layer 1001.

[0130] The active layer 1001 may have an active area 1001a, wherein the electrical quantity of the force sensor may depend on the force F acting on the active area 1001a in such a way that a change in the force acting on the active area causes the change in the electrical quantity.

[0131] The force sensor 1000 preferably has a first side surface 1002b, which faces the active layer 1001 and / or the active surface 1001a of the active layer 1001. Preferably, the attachment 1002 can rest with the first side surface 1002b on the active layer 1001 or on the active surface 1001a of the active layer 1001. The attachment 1002 can have a second side surface 1002a, which faces the active layer

[0132] 1001 and / or the active surface 1001a of the active layer 1001. As shown in Figures 1A to C, the force F to be detected can act on the attachment 1002 via the second side surface 1002a, wherein this force is introduced via the first side surface 1002b onto the active layer 1001 or its active surface 1001a, where it causes a change in the electrical quantity.

[0133] As shown in Figures 1B and 1C, a first cross section through the attachment

[0134] 1002 may have a larger cross-sectional area than a second cross-section through the attachment, wherein the second cross-section is farther away from the active layer 1001 and / or the active area of ​​the active layer 1001 than the first cross-section. Alternatively or additionally, the attachment 1002 may be tapered in a direction leading away from the active layer 1001 and / or the active area of ​​the active layer 1001.

[0135] The attachment 1002 can be cuboid-shaped (Fig. 1A), frustoconical or prism-shaped (Fig. 1B), or hemispherical (Fig. 1C). The attachment can be mounted directly or indirectly on the active layer 1001.

[0136] The force sensor 1000 can be designed such that upon an increase in the force acting on the active layer 1001 (or active area 1001a), the electrical quantity (e.g., electrical resistance or electrical voltage) decreases, preferably continuously and / or proportionally; and / or the force sensor 1000 can be designed such that upon a reduction in the force acting on the active layer 1001 (or active area 1001a), the electrical quantity increases, preferably continuously and / or proportionally. For example, the force sensor can be a transimpedance converter, such as the Force Sensing Resistor (FSR) from Interlink Electronics. The force sensor 1000 of the type described herein allows for the provision of a high-ohmic resistance in the unloaded state, exponential changes in the electrical quantity (e.g.,resistance), has no cross-sensitivity, and enables an improved introduction of the force onto the sensor (e.g. force focusing) to be achieved without a complicated mechanical structure.

[0137] The force sensor 1000 can be designed such that in an unloaded state of the active layer 1001, an electrical contact of the force sensor 1000 is interrupted and that the electrical contact is closed by the force acting on the active layer 1001 in order to make the change in the electrical quantity measurable as a function of the change in the force F acting on the active layer 1001 (or active area tooia).

[0138] Figure 2 shows an example of a preferred internal structure of the force sensor 1000 according to the invention, in particular of the active layer 1001.

[0139] The active layer 1001 of the force sensor 1000 can comprise a first substrate 1004 and a second substrate 1006, which are spaced apart from one another in the unloaded state of the active layer 1001 (e.g., by a spacer 1005 arranged therebetween, such as an adhesive layer), thereby interrupting the electrical contact. The two substrates 1004, 1006 can be arranged such that the substrates 1004, 1006 come into contact with one another due to the force F acting on the active layer 1001, thereby closing the electrical contact. Preferably, the force acting on the active layer 1001 can act on the active area 1001a of the active layer 1001, wherein the active area 1001a can be a surface of the first substrate 1004 (as shown by way of example in Figure 2) or of the second substrate 1006.

[0140] The attachment can rest on a surface (e.g., the active area 1001a) of the active layer 1001. This surface can be, for example, on a front side or a back side of the active layer. For example, the attachment can rest on the surface (e.g., the active area 1001a) of the first substrate 1004 or on the surface (e.g., the back side of the active layer) of the second substrate 1006. The attachment can be attached, preferably detachably, to the force sensor or to the active layer 1001 using a fastening means (e.g., a film or an adhesive such as an adhesive film).

[0141] The attachment 1002 can be designed to focus the force F acting externally on the force sensor 1000 onto the active layer 1001 and / or the active surface 1001a of the active layer 1001.

[0142] The force sensor 1000 can optionally further comprise a carrier 1003, such as a wafer, for supporting the active layer 1001 and the attachment 1002, as shown in Figure 2. The carrier, in particular the wafer, comprises electrodes for tapping an electrical quantity (e.g., a voltage) that depends on the force F. The wafer is to be understood as a substrate (e.g., plate or layer) for electronic components, and the wafer can be made of different materials, such as semiconductors, plastic, or glass. Other types of carriers are also possible.

[0143] Preferably, the active layer 1001 is arranged between the attachment 1002 and the carrier, in particular the wafer, 1003 (Fig. 2A). The attachment 1002 is then arranged on the front side of the active layer 1001. In this way, the force F to be detected can act from the outside by means of the attachment 1002 (here: through the attachment) on the active layer 1001 or its active surface 1001a. Preferably, the second substrate 1006 can be arranged between the first substrate 1004 and the carrier, in particular the wafer, 1003, and the first substrate 1004 can be arranged between the attachment 1002 and the second substrate 1006. Alternatively or additionally, the attachment 1002 can be arranged between the active layer 1001, in particular the second substrate 1006, and the carrier, in particular wafer, 1003 on the back side of the active layer 1001 (Fig. 2 B).In this case, a force acting on the force sensor from the outside, in particular outside the active area 1001a, can still reach the active layer by way of a counterforce, which is then exerted by the attachment 1002 on the back of the active layer 1001, and there preferably cause electrical contact between the two substrates 1004 and 1006. For example, electrical contacts that are higher than the active area can also be present on the substrate 1006. The attachment 1002 then compensates for this height difference. Even with the arrangement of the attachment 1002 shown in Fig. 2B, a force acting on the force sensor from the outside can act on the active layer 1001 or its active area 10001a by means of the attachment.

[0144] The carrier, in particular the wafer, 10003 and / or the attachment 1002 have a stabilizing effect on the force sensor and in particular on its substrates 1004 to 1006. For example, the upper 1005 and / or lower substrate 1006 of the force sensor can be flexible (e.g., a film 1005, 1006), which can cause the force sensor to bulge. The carrier, in particular the wafer, and / or the attachment prevent such bulging in both arrangements according to Figures 2A and 2B.

[0145] Preferably for the arrangements according to Fig. 2 A and B, the attachment 1002 is made of a rigid material.

[0146] Figure 2 shows, by way of example, the cuboid shape of the attachment 1002 from Figure 1A. However, all features of the force sensor described in connection with Figure 2 can also be realized with an attachment 1002 having a different shape from that described here, for example the shape according to one of Figures 1B or 1C.

[0147] Fig. 3A shows an example of a sensor group 1000-1, 1000-2 according to the invention in a set 1 according to the invention, as well as a measuring apparatus. Figs. 3B to C show examples of the measurement results obtained with the measuring apparatus according to Fig. 3A.

[0148] Figure 3A shows, by way of example, the use of an assembly according to the invention with a sensor group in a measuring apparatus. The sensor group comprises a first force sensor 1000-1 according to the invention and a second force sensor 1000-2 according to the invention. Preferably, the first force sensor 1000-1 and the second force sensor 1000-2 are electrically connected in parallel to increase their sensitivity. The electrical resistance of the first force sensor 1000-1 can be electrically connected in parallel with an electrical resistance of the second force sensor 1000-2.

[0149] The sensors 1000-1, 1000-2 are each fixed to opposite sides of a patient's head 1040 (see Fig. 3A) by means of the assembly 1 according to the invention, which is described further below in Figures 6 to 9. The assembly fulfills the following tasks: fixing the force sensors to the measuring points T3 and T4 of the head and generating a contact pressure so that the force sensors are subjected to a preload.

[0150] The force sensors are used here to record the movement or expansion of the calvarium. Since the calvarium moves rhythmically in synchrony with the blood flow, this movement can be qualitatively recorded. Fig. 3 A schematically shows the expansion AS of the calvarium, with the expansion being most pronounced at the measuring points T3 and T4 of the head.

[0151] Due to the expansion AS, a force AF acts on the force sensors 1000-1, 1000-2. Each sensor 1000-1, 1000-2 changes its resistance R proportional to the force AF, which is converted into a voltage by an electronic circuit, which is then amplified (circuit and / or transimpedance amplifier 1010). The output of this amplifier 1010 represents a voltage U, which is digitized in converter 1020 (e.g., XTDC) and subsequently visualized and / or evaluated in a data processing unit 1030. Fig. 3 B shows an exemplary curve of the voltage U over time t and its normalized frequency spectrum. The dominant frequency corresponds to 1 Hz, which corresponds to a heartbeat of 60 beats per minute.

[0152] If we consider a single pulse in Fig. 3C from the voltage curve in Fig. 3B, the course of the Karlot movement can be qualitatively followed from the voltage change. As the force F acting on the force sensor increases due to the Karlot movement, the electrical resistance R of the force sensor decreases. Depending on the circuit configuration, this is accompanied by a corresponding increase or decrease in the voltage U, which is detected. Conversely, as the force F acting on the force sensor decreases with the Karlot movement, the electrical resistance R of the force sensor increases. Depending on the circuit configuration, this is accompanied by a corresponding increase or decrease in the voltage U, which is detected.

[0153] Accordingly, a computer-assisted method for detecting a carlot movement of a skull of a head by means of a fitting 1 according to the invention arranged on the head may comprise the following operations: detecting an electrical signal generated by the electrical quantity of at least one of the force sensors 1000-1, 1000-2; and detecting the carlot movement based on the detected electrical signal.

[0154] Figure 4 shows an assembly according to the invention. The assembly 100 comprises: a force sensor 1000 according to the invention; a further sensor 102, which is designed to transmit and / or receive a signal via an active sensor surface 101 of the further sensor 102; wherein the force sensor 1000 is attached to a side surface of the further sensor 102, preferably opposite the active sensor surface 101, such that the attachment 1002, in particular its second side surface 1002a, faces away from the side surface of the further sensor 102.

[0155] The additional sensor 102 can be a transmitter and / or a receiver of the signal. Preferably, the additional sensor 102 is an ultrasound probe, wherein the signal is an ultrasound signal. This assembly 100 can be installed in the set or its sensor caps instead of the two force sensors 1000-1, 1002 in Figure 3, in order to perform the qualitative tracking of the carrot movement in Figures 3B and 3C in parallel and essentially at the same location as the ultrasound measurements taken through the patient's head, in order to qualitatively consider the carrot movement in the evaluation of the ultrasound measurement and thus make it more meaningful.

[0156] Figure 5A shows a measurement setup with at least one force sensor 1000 according to the invention, which is applied to an area 1050 of a patient's body part in order to detect a force AF there. This area 1050 can be a vein or a muscle, or another area of ​​the body part. The force sensor 1000 can, for example, be integrated into a bracelet, chest strap, collar, headband, or the inventive accessory. The sensor can also be held manually against the area 1050. The sensor 1000 changes its resistance R proportional to the force AF, which is converted into a voltage by an electronic circuit, which is then amplified (circuit and / or transimpedance amplifier 1010). The output of this amplifier 1010 represents a voltage U, which is digitized in converter 1020 (e.g., XTDC) and subsequently visualized and / or evaluated in a data processing unit 1030.

[0157] Fig. 5B shows an exemplary curve of the voltage U over time t and its normalized frequency spectrum. Figure 5B shows measurement results in which the force sensor according to the invention was held against an artery (carotid artery) and the data of the voltage U were recorded, with periodic force changes also being qualitatively detected here. The dominant frequency in the frequency spectrum of Figure 5B corresponds to 1 Hz, which corresponds to a heartbeat of 60 beats per minute.

[0158] Accordingly, a computer-assisted method according to the invention for determining a physiological parameter of a patient by means of at least one force sensor 1000 arranged at a region 1050 of a body part, preferably a vein such as an artery, may comprise the following operation: detecting an electrical signal generated by the electrical quantity of the force sensor 1000; and determining the physiological parameter based on the detected electrical signal.

[0159] Preferably, the force sensor 1000 can be arranged on the region 1050 in such a way that a force caused by the region 1050 (e.g. the wire) acts via the attachment 1002 on the active layer 1001 of the at least one force sensor 1000.

[0160] The reliable detection of forces or changes in forces in the human body can be used for a wide variety of applications, particularly in the field of patient care. For example, the force sensor 1000 according to the invention can be applied to a muscle in the head region of a patient in order to detect, for example, teeth clenching. From these detected forces or changes in forces due to muscle activity when teeth are clenched, specific signal patterns can be generated in control signals to control a function in a software application. Such a function can be controlled by switching on, switching off, starting a communication, ending a communication, or another function of a software application from a patient's everyday life.This enables patients, especially those with paralysis or other disabilities, to participate in everyday life, even if, for example, their arms and / or legs cannot be moved. This allows the patient to send signals to their surroundings and control their movements solely through muscle activity, for example, in the head.

[0161] Accordingly, a computer-aided method according to the invention for generating a control signal for a software application by means of one or more force sensors 1000, 1000-1, 1000-2 according to the invention or a set 1 according to the invention arranged on a body part, such as the head, can comprise the following operations: detecting a pattern in an electrical signal generated by the electrical quantity of at least one of the force sensors 1000, 1000-1, 1000-2; and in response to the detected pattern, generating a control signal for a function of the software application. Preferably, different detected patterns can correspond to control signals of different functions of the software application.At least one of the force sensors 1000-1, 1000-2 can preferably be arranged on the head, preferably by means of the fitting 1, in such a way that a force caused by a movement of a muscle on the head acts via the attachment 1002 on the active layer 1001 of the at least one force sensor 1000-1, 1000-2.

[0162] The method may further comprise: converting the electrical variable of the at least one force sensor 1000-1, 1000-2 into the electrical signal by means of an electrical circuit 1010, preferably wherein the electrical variable is an electrical resistance and the electrical signal is an electrical voltage signal. Preferably, the electrical signal can be converted into a digital signal by a digital converter 1020, which is evaluated and / or visualized by a data processing unit 1030.

[0163] Fig. 6 shows an example of an embodiment of a set 1 according to the invention together with one or more force sensors 1000 according to the invention (not shown here). The set 1 serves to position the one or more force sensors 1000, as well as optionally a further sensor 102 (e.g. assembly 100), on opposite areas of a head, as can also be used in Fig. 3 A, 4 or 5 A, in order to position the one or more sensors 102, 1000 on the head.

[0164] The set 1 comprises a headband 2 which at least partially surrounds an axis A in a first plane running perpendicular to the axis A. At opposite ends of the headband 2 there are two sensor caps 3, each for receiving at least one sensor 102 and / or 1000, e.g. the assembly 100. The sensor cap 3 can receive an assembly 100, e.g. an assembly 100 as shown in Fig. 4. The active sensor surface 101 of the further sensor 102 can rest on the surface of the head, while the attachment 1002 of the force sensor 1000 rests on the base 8 or the elevation 10 of the set 1 (cf. Fig. 8). In this way, the measurement can be carried out particularly effectively with the additional sensor 102 on the head, while the force sensor 1000 detects a force acting on the active layer 1001 from the set 1 via the attachment 1002.

[0165] Furthermore, the set 1 comprises a nose bridge 4, which extends from an approximately central region between the sensor caps 3 in a direction approximately perpendicular to the headband 2. The nose bridge 4 has, at an end opposite the headband 2, a preferably bow-shaped end piece 5 for receiving the bridge of the nose of a head.

[0166] The headband 2 is dimensioned such that the sensor caps 3 are positioned on opposite areas of the head, preferably in an area between the T3 and the T5 position in the 10-20 system and in an area between the T4 and the T6 position in the 10-20 system on the head, when the headband 2 at least partially encircles the head and the nosepiece 4 with the end piece 5 is mounted on the back of the nose.

[0167] According to a preferred aspect, a distance between the sensor caps 3 is smaller than a transverse diameter of the head, preferably measured between the area between the T3 and T5 position and the area between the T4 and T6 position in the 10-20 system.

[0168] Furthermore, the headband 1 is elastically formed, preferably in one piece, so that the sensor caps 3 with sensors 102, 1000 located therein are pressed laterally against the opposite areas of the head. The sensor caps 3 can each comprise a container and are designed to accommodate an approximately cylindrical sensor 102, 1000 or cylindrical assembly 100. To accommodate such a sensor 102, 1000, a sensor cap 3 has an interior 6, preferably a recess 6, which opens into an opening 7 in the direction of the head and is delimited by the sensor cap 3 on a side surface 9 of the sensor cap 3 or its container that at least partially surrounds the interior or the recess, and is delimited by the sensor cap 3 on a bottom side 8 of the sensor cap 3 or the container opposite the opening 7.

[0169] The opening 7 is designed so that a sensor 102, 1000 can be inserted through it into the interior or recess 6. A sensor 102, 1000 arranged in the interior or recess 6 is then exposed through the circumferential opening 7 in the direction of the head, so that a front side of the sensor 102, 1000 can rest against the head, with the sensor 102, 1000 being laterally delimited by the side surface 9 of the sensor cap 3 and the bottom side 8 of the sensor cap 3. The sensor 102, 1000 is thus held in the sensor cap 3 when the fitting 1 rests against the head.

[0170] In the example shown, the openings 7 of the two sensor caps 3 face each other. The sensors 102, 1000 arranged in the recesses 6 can thus be aligned with each other.

[0171] Furthermore, a sensor cap 3 has at least one, preferably two, through-openings 11 through the side surface of the sensor cap 3 for a sensor cable connected to the sensor. A through-opening is designed to guide a sensor cable connected to the sensor through the sensor cap and out of the sensor cap laterally.

[0172] The two through-holes 12 can be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. This allows for different radial orientations of the sensors 102, 1000 in the interior space or the recess 6.

[0173] A feedthrough opening 11 opens via a feedthrough area 12 into the opening 7 of the sensor cap 3. The feedthrough area 12 and the feedthrough opening 11 are designed in such a way that a sensor cable connected to the sensor 102, 1000 can be pushed from the opening 7 through the feedthrough area 12 into the feedthrough opening 11 when the sensor 102, 1000 is inserted via the opening 7 into the interior or the recess

[0174] 6. This leads the sensor cable connected to the sensor laterally through the sensor cap 3 away from the sensor 102, 1000.

[0175] The sensor cable is at least partially circumferentially limited by the sensor cap 3, whereby the sensor 102, 1000 is held in position.

[0176] The lead-through opening 11 has a taper 13 relative to a diameter of the lead-through opening 11, so that a sensor cable does not pass directly through the lead-through area 12 from the lead-through opening 11 in the direction of the opening

[0177] 7. This allows a sensor 102, 1000 connected to the sensor cable to be fixed in the interior or recess 6.

[0178] Furthermore, a sensor cap 3 has a further opening 14, which at least partially exposes the interior space or the recess 6 through the side surface 9 of the sensor cap 3 and the bottom side 8 of the sensor cap 3. This at least partially exposes a sensor 102, 1000 arranged in the interior space or the recess 6.

[0179] Figure 7 shows a top view of set 1 in Figure 6.

[0180] The headband 2 has a curved section 16 that at least partially encircles the axis A in the first plane. The curved section 16 is preferably semicircular. Furthermore, the headband 2 has two approximately rectilinear sections 17 that extend in the first plane. The two approximately rectilinear sections 17 each merge into the curved section 16 at a first end and each terminate in a sensor cap 3 at a second end opposite the first end.

[0181] In the plan view it can be seen that the two approximately rectilinear sections 17 converge towards each other starting from the respective first end in the first plane.

[0182] From the top view, it can be seen that a distance measured between the sensor caps 3 is smaller than a radial diameter of the curved region 16 measured between the first ends of the respective approximately rectilinear sections 17. As a result, the contact pressure exerted on the head is focused on the sensor caps 3 or on the sensors 102, 1000 in the sensor caps 3.

[0183] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a sensor cap 3 of the set 1 shown in Figure 6 or Figure 7.

[0184] It is shown that the sensor cap 3 has an approximately cylindrical recess 6, which is delimited on one side by a circumferential opening 7 and, on a side opposite the opening 7, by a bottom side 8 of the sensor cap 3 and laterally by a circumferential side surface 9 of the sensor cap 3. The recess 6 (or interior space) thus formed in the sensor cap 3 serves to accommodate a sensor 102, 1000.

[0185] Furthermore, the sensor cap 3 has on the bottom side 8 an approximately hemispherical elevation 10 directed in the direction of the opening, which forms a stop for a sensor 102, 1000.

[0186] When a sensor 102, 1000 strikes the approximately hemispherical elevation 10 with its rear side in a first region, a region of the rear side of the sensor surrounding the first region is spaced from the bottom side 8 of the sensor cap 3. When a compressive force is exerted by the head toward the bottom side on the sensor 102, 1000, the sensor 102, 1000 can thus adjust its orientation within the recess 6.

[0187] In addition, the feedthrough openings 11 are visible through the side surface 9 of the sensor cap 3, which open into the opening 7 via the feedthrough area 12.

[0188] The feedthrough area 12 has a taper 13. The taper 13 is formed by opposing areas of the sensor cap 3, which are spaced apart by a distance less than the diameter of the feedthrough opening 11.

[0189] To form a taper, the opposite lateral regions of the sensor cap can have a bevel in the direction of the opening 7 so that the sensor cable can be guided more easily from the opening 7 in the direction of the through-hole 12 into the through-hole 12 when inserted into the through-hole 11 through the through-hole region 12.

[0190] In addition, a further recess 14 of the sensor cap 3 can be seen, which at least partially exposes the interior or the recess 6 through the bottom side 8 of the sensor cap 3 and the side surface 9 of the sensor cap 3.

[0191] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a set 1 in combination with markers 15-

[0192] The markers 15 are approximately clip-shaped and can be attached to various areas of the set 1. The markers 15 are preferably made of the same material as the set 1.

[0193] In some examples, one marker 15 can be attached to an approximately central region of the nose bridge 4, and at least two additional markers 15 can be attached to different regions of the headband 2. In further examples, the at least two markers 15 can each be attached to a side of a sensor cap 3 facing away from the head. In further examples, multiple markers 15 can be attached to different regions of the assembly 1, on the sensor caps 3, on the headband 2, and on the nose bridge 4.

[0194] The markers 15 are particularly visible in an MRI scan of the head with the set 1 attached, so that the position of the set 1 can be set in relation to information about the head in the MRI scan.

[0195] The disclosure described here may (alternatively) be defined by the following numbered aspects:

[0196] Numbered aspects

[0197] 1. A force sensor (1000) comprising: an active layer (1001), wherein an electrical quantity of the force sensor (1000) depends on a force acting on the active layer (1001) in such a way that a change in the force acting on the active layer (1001) causes a change in the electrical quantity; characterized in that the force sensor (1000) comprises an attachment (1002) arranged relative to the active layer (1001) in such a way that a force acting externally on the force sensor (1000) is conducted to the active layer (1001) by means of the attachment (1002).

[0198] 2. The force sensor (1000) according to aspect 1, wherein the force sensor (1000) is designed such that upon an increase in the force acting on the active layer (1001), the electrical quantity decreases, preferably continuously and / or proportionally; and / or wherein the force sensor (1000) is designed such that upon a decrease in the force acting on the active layer (1001), the electrical quantity increases, preferably continuously and / or proportionally.

[0199] 3. The force sensor (1000) according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the force sensor (1000) is designed such that in an unloaded state of the active layer (1001) an electrical contact of the force sensor (1000) is interrupted and that the electrical contact is closed by the force acting on the active layer (1001) in order to make the change in the electrical quantity measurable as a function of the change in the force acting on the active layer (1001).

[0200] 4. The force sensor (1000) according to aspect 3, wherein the active layer (1001) comprises a first substrate (1004) and a second substrate (1006) which are spaced apart from one another in the unloaded state of the active layer (1001) and thereby interrupt the electrical contact, wherein the two substrates (1004, 1006) are arranged such that the substrates (1004, 1006) come into contact with one another due to the force acting on the active layer (1001) and thereby close the electrical contact.

[0201] 5. The force sensor (1000) according to aspect 4, wherein the force acting on the active layer (1001) acts on an active area (1001a) of the active layer (1001), wherein the active area (1001a) is a surface of the first substrate (1004) or the second substrate (1006).

[0202] 6. The force sensor (1000) according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the attachment (1002) is designed to focus the force acting externally on the force sensor (1000) onto the active layer (1001) and / or the active surface (1001a) of the active layer (1001).

[0203] 7. The force sensor (1000) according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the attachment (1002) has a first side surface (1002b) facing the active layer (1001) and / or the active surface of the active layer (1001), and wherein the attachment (1002) has a second side surface (1002a) facing away from the active layer (1001) and / or the active surface of the active layer (1001).

[0204] 8. The force sensor (1000) according to aspect 8, wherein the attachment (1002) is designed to guide the force acting externally on the force sensor (1000) via the second side surface (1002a), through the attachment (1002), and via the first side surface (1002b) onto the active layer (1001) and / or the active surface (1001a) of the active layer (1001).

[0205] 9. The force sensor (1000) according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein a first cross-section through the attachment (1002) has a larger cross-sectional area than a second cross-section through the attachment, wherein the second cross-section is farther away from the active layer (1001) and / or the active area of ​​the active layer (1001) than the first cross-section. 10. The force sensor (1000) according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the attachment (1002) tapers in a direction leading away from the active layer (1001) and / or the active area of ​​the active layer (1001).

[0206] 11. The force sensor (1000) according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the attachment (1002) is cuboid-shaped, frustoconical, hemispherical or prism-shaped.

[0207] 12. The force sensor (1000) according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the attachment is mounted, preferably directly, on the active layer (1001).

[0208] 13. The force sensor (1000) according to any one of the preceding aspects, further comprising a wafer (1003) for supporting the active layer (1001) and the attachment (1002).

[0209] 14. The force sensor (1000) according to aspect 13, wherein the attachment (1002) is arranged between the active layer (1001), in particular the second substrate (1006), and the wafer (1003).

[0210] 15. The force sensor (1000) according to aspect 13, wherein the active layer (1001) is arranged between the attachment (1002) and the wafer (1003), preferably wherein the second substrate (1006) is arranged between the first substrate (1004) and the wafer (1003) and the first substrate (1004) is arranged between the attachment (1002) and the second substrate (1006).

[0211] 16. The force sensor (1000) according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the attachment (1002) is made of a rigid material.

[0212] 17. A sensor group comprising: a first force sensor (1000-1) according to any one of the preceding aspects and a second force sensor (1000-2) according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the first force sensor (1000-1) and the second force sensor (1000-2) are electrically connected in parallel with one another. The sensor group according to aspect 17, wherein the first force sensor (1000-1) and the second force sensor (1000-2) are electrically connected in parallel with one another such that the sensitivity for detecting a force acting on the active layers (1001) of the force sensors (1000-1, 1000-2) is higher than the sensitivity with which one of the force sensors (1000-1, 1000-2) detects a force acting on the active layer (1001) of the one force sensor. The sensor group according to aspect 17 or 18, wherein an electrical resistor of the first force sensor (1000-1) is electrically connected in parallel with an electrical resistor of the second force sensor (1000-2).An assembly (100) comprising: a force sensor (1000) according to one of the preceding aspects 1 to 16; a further sensor (102) which is designed to transmit and / or receive a signal via an active sensor surface (101) of the further sensor (102); wherein the force sensor (1000) is attached to a side surface of the further sensor (102), preferably opposite the active sensor surface (101), such that the attachment (1002), in particular its second side surface (1002a), faces away from the side surface of the further sensor (102). The assembly (100) according to aspect 20, wherein the further sensor (102) is an ultrasonic probe, and wherein the signal is an ultrasonic signal.A set (1) for positioning sensors on opposite regions of a head, the set (1) comprising: one or more, preferably two, force sensors (1000, 1000-1, 1000-2), each according to one of the preceding aspects 1-16; a headband (2) designed to at least partially encircle the head; sensor caps (3) arranged on opposite regions of the headband (2), each designed to receive at least one of the force sensors (1000-1, 1000-2); and a nose bridge (4) connected to the headband (2) and designed to support the headband (2) on a ridge of the nose of the head. 23- Set according to aspect 22, wherein each of the force sensors is received in a different one of the sensor caps arranged on opposite regions of the headband such that a force exerted by the head on the force sensor (1000) acts via the attachment (1002) on the active layer (1001) of the force sensor.

[0213] 24. A set according to aspect 22 or 23, wherein the set comprises a first assembly (100) including the first of the force sensors (1000-1), wherein the set comprises a second assembly (100) including a second of the force sensors (1000-2), and wherein each of the two assemblies (100) comprises a further sensor (102) which is designed to transmit a signal via an active sensor surface (101) of the further sensor (102) in the direction of the head and / or to receive a signal from the direction of the head, and wherein in each of the assemblies (100) the respective force sensor (1000) is arranged on one, preferably the active sensor surface

[0214] (101) opposite, side surface of the respective further sensor (102) such that the attachment (1002) of the respective force sensor (1000-1, 1002-2), in particular its second side surface (1002a), faces away from the side surface of the respective further sensor (102).

[0215] 25. Set according to aspect 24, wherein the sensor caps (3) arranged on opposite areas of the headband (2) are designed to each cover at least one of the assemblies (100) together with its respective further sensor

[0216] (102).

[0217] 26. The assembly of aspect 24 or 25, wherein in each of the assemblies (100) the further sensor (102) is an ultrasonic probe and the signal is an ultrasonic signal.

[0218] 27. The set according to any one of the preceding aspects 22 to 26, wherein the force sensors (1000-1, 1000-2) are electrically connected in parallel with one another and / or wherein the electrical resistors of the force sensors (1000-1, 1000-2) are electrically connected in parallel. 28. The set according to any one of the preceding aspects 22 to 27, wherein the nose bridge (4) is connected to the headband (2) in a region of the headband (2) approximately centrally between the sensor caps (3).

[0219] 29. A set according to any one of the preceding aspects 22 to 28, wherein the headband (2) at least partially surrounds an axis (A) in a first plane running perpendicular to the axis (A), and wherein the nosepiece (4) intersects the first plane, preferably in a direction approximately perpendicular to the first plane.

[0220] 30. Set (1) according to one of the preceding aspects 22 to 29, wherein the nose bridge (4) has an end piece (5) at an end opposite the headband (2), wherein the end piece (5) has a preferably approximately bow-shaped indentation aligned approximately along the axis (A), which is designed to prevent a relative movement of the nose bridge (4) to the bridge of the nose in a direction parallel to a frontal plane of the head and parallel to the first plane.

[0221] 31. Set (1) according to one of the preceding aspects 22 to 30, wherein the nose bridge (4), starting from the connection to the headband (2), has a length of 2 cm - 7 cm, preferably about 5 cm or less.

[0222] 32. Set (1) according to one of the preceding aspects 22 to 31, wherein the sensor caps (3) have a distance of 10 cm - 17 cm, preferably 11 cm - 16 cm, from the nose bridge (4).

[0223] 33. Set (1) according to one of the preceding aspects 22 to 32, wherein each of the sensor caps (3) comprises a preferably approximately cylindrical recess (6) for receiving one of the force sensors (1000-1, 1000-2) and / or one of the further sensors (102), which recess has an opening (7) on one side and is at least partially delimited by the sensor cap (3) on a bottom side (8) of the sensor cap (3) opposite the opening and on at least one side surface (9) of the sensor cap (3). 34- Set (i) according to aspect 33, wherein the openings (7) of the sensor caps (3) face one another.

[0224] 35. Fitting (1) according to one of aspects 33 or 34, wherein the sensor cap (3) has, at a preferably approximately central position on the bottom side (8), a preferably approximately hemispherical elevation (10) directed in the direction of the opening (7), which elevation represents a stop and / or adjustment aid for a sensor (102, 1000).

[0225] 36. Fitting (1) according to one of aspects 33-35, wherein each sensor cap (3) has at least one through-opening (11) into the recess (6) through the at least one side surface (9), wherein the through-opening (11) opens into the opening (7) of the recess (6) via a through-opening region (12).

[0226] 37. Fitting (1) according to aspect 36, wherein the lead-through region (12) has a taper (13) relative to a diameter of the lead-through opening (11).

[0227] 38. Fitting (1) according to one of aspects 22-37, wherein each sensor cap (3) has a further opening (14) which at least partially exposes the recess (6) through the at least one side surface (9) and / or through the bottom side (8).

[0228] 39. Fitting (1) according to one of aspects 33-38, wherein each sensor cap (3) has a further recess for receiving a magnet on a side opposite the opening (7) of the recess (6).

[0229] 40. Fitting (1) according to one of the preceding aspects 22 to 39, further comprising a magnet which can be fastened to one of the sensor caps (3), preferably in the further recess (6).

[0230] 41. Set (1) according to one of the preceding aspects 22 to 40, wherein the

[0231] The set (1) comprises at least three preferably clip-shaped markers (15) that can be attached to different regions on the nose bridge (4), the headband (2), and / or the sensor caps (3). The set (1) according to aspect 41, wherein the markers (15) each comprise a marker body made of the same material as the nose bridge (4), the headband (2), and / or the sensor caps (3). Set (1) according to one of the preceding aspects 33 to 42, further comprising at least one preferably approximately disc-shaped pad which can be fastened to one of the sensor caps (3) and / or the headband (2) and has a hole such that, when the pad is fastened to the sensor cap (3) and / or the headband (2), the hole is aligned with the opening (7) of the sensor cap (3) such that a sensor arranged in the recess (6) of the sensor cap (3) rests against the scalp via the opening (7) and via the hole.The set according to aspect 43, wherein the pad preferably protrudes beyond lateral edges of the sensor cap (3) and has a gap through which a section of the head can be marked when the pad is attached to the sensor cap (3) and / or the headband (2). The set (1) according to any one of the preceding aspects 33 to 44, wherein the headband (2) comprises: a curved section (16) that preferably extends approximately semicircularly around the axis (A) in the first plane, two approximately rectilinear sections (17), each of which merges into the curved region (16) at a first end and at each of which opposite second ends there is a sensor cap (3), wherein the two approximately rectilinear sections (17) converge toward one another starting from the respective first end. 46.Fitting (i) according to aspect 45, wherein the approximately rectilinear sections (17) each enclose an angle of approximately 75°-85°, preferably approximately 80°, with a second plane oriented perpendicular to the first plane through the first ends of the two approximately rectilinear sections (17).

[0232] 47. Set (1) according to one of the preceding aspects 33 to 46, wherein the headband (2) is elastically designed, preferably as a bending spring.

[0233] 48. Set (1) according to one of the preceding aspects 33 to 47, wherein the headband (2), the nosepiece (4) and the sensor caps (3) are preferably formed in one piece from the same material.

[0234] 49. Fitting (1) according to aspect 48, wherein the material is a biocompatible material, preferably a polyamide PA12, particularly preferably PA2200.

[0235] 50. Sensor cap (3) for receiving at least one sensor, the sensor cap (3) comprising: a force sensor (1000) according to one of the preceding aspects 1-16; a preferably approximately cylindrical recess (6) for receiving the force sensor (1000), wherein the recess (6) has an opening (7) on one side and is at least partially delimited by the sensor cap (3) on a bottom side (8) of the sensor cap (3) opposite the opening (7) and on at least one side surface (9) of the sensor cap (3).

[0236] 51. Sensor cap (3) according to aspect 50, wherein the sensor cap comprises an assembly (100) which includes the force sensor (1000), and wherein the assembly (100) comprises a further sensor (102) which is designed to transmit and / or receive a signal via an active sensor surface (101) of the further sensor, and wherein in the assembly (100) the force sensor (1000) is attached to a side surface of the respective further sensor (102), preferably opposite the active sensor surface (101), such that the attachment (1002) of the force sensor (1000), in particular its second side surface (1002a), faces away from the side surface of the further sensor (102).

[0237] 52. Sensor cap (3) according to aspect 51, wherein the recess is designed to receive the assembly (100) together with its further sensor (102).

[0238] 53. Sensor cap (3) according to one of aspects 50 to 52, wherein the sensor cap (3) has, at a preferably approximately central position on the bottom side (8), a preferably approximately hemispherical elevation (10) directed in the direction of the opening (7), which elevation represents a stop for a sensor (102, 1000).

[0239] 54. Sensor cap (3) according to one of aspects 50 to 53, wherein the sensor cap (3) has a through-opening (11) into the recess (6) through the at least one side surface (9), wherein the through-opening (11) opens into the opening (7) of the recess (6) via a through-opening region (12).

[0240] 55. Sensor cap (3) according to aspect 54, wherein the feedthrough region (12) has a taper (13) relative to a diameter of the feedthrough opening (11).

[0241] 56. Sensor cap (3) according to one of aspects 50 to 55, wherein the sensor cap (3) has a further opening (14) which at least partially exposes the recess (6) through the at least one side surface (9) and / or through the bottom side (8).

[0242] 57. Sensor cap (3) according to one of aspects 50 to 56, wherein the sensor cap (3) has a further recess with a magnet on a side opposite the opening (7) of the recess (6).

[0243] 58. The fitting according to any one of aspects 33 to 49 or the sensor cap according to any one of aspects 50 to 57, wherein each force sensor (1000) or each assembly (100) is arranged in one of the sensor caps or in the recess of the sensor cap. - Use of a force sensor (1000) according to any one of aspects 1 to 16, a sensor group (1000-1, 1000-2) according to any one of aspects 16-19, an assembly (100) according to any one of aspects 20-21, a fitting (1) according to any one of aspects 22-49 or 58, or a sensor cap (3) according to any one of aspects 50-58 for detecting a carlottic movement of a skull. . Computer-assisted method for detecting a carlot movement of a skull of a head by means of a set (1) arranged on the head according to one of aspects 22-49 or 58, the method comprising:

[0244] Detecting an electrical signal generated by the electrical quantity of at least one of the force sensors (1000-1, 1000-2); and

[0245] Detecting the carrot movement based on the detected electrical signal. The method according to aspect 60, wherein the electrical signal is a periodic electrical signal and the carrot movement is detected based on a change in the amplitude of the periodic electrical signal. The method according to aspect 60 or 61, wherein the at least one force sensor (1000-1, 1000-2) is arranged on the head by means of the fitting such that a force caused by the carrot movement acts via the attachment (1002) on the active layer (1001) of the at least one force sensor. The method according to aspect 62, wherein the electrical signal correlates with the force caused by the carrot movement such that a change in the force caused by the carrot movement causes a change in the amplitude of the electrical signal.Computer-assisted method for determining a physiological parameter of a patient by means of at least one force sensor (1000) according to one of aspects 1-16 arranged on a region (1050) of a body part, preferably a vein such as an artery, of a patient, the method comprising: detecting an electrical signal generated by means of the electrical quantity of the force sensor (1000); and.

[0246] Determining the physiological parameter based on the detected electrical signal. The method according to aspect 64, wherein the force sensor (1000) is arranged on the region (1050) such that a force caused by the region (1050) acts via the attachment (1002) on the active layer (1001) of the at least one force sensor (1000). A computer-assisted method for generating a control signal for a software application by means of one or more force sensors (1000) according to any one of aspects 1-16 or a set (1) according to any one of aspects 22-49 or 58 arranged on a body part (1040), preferably a head, comprising:

[0247] Detecting a pattern in an electrical signal generated by the electrical quantity of at least one of the force sensors (1000-1, 1000-2); and in response to the detected pattern, generating a control signal for a function of the software application. The method according to aspect 66, wherein different detected patterns correspond to control signals of different functions of the software application. The method according to aspect 66 or 67, wherein at least one of the force sensors (1000-1, 1000-2) is arranged on the body part (1040), preferably by means of the fitting (1), in such a way that a force caused by a movement of a muscle on the body part (1040) acts via the attachment (1002) on the active layer (1001) of the at least one force sensor (1000-1, 1000-2).- The method according to any one of aspects 60-68, further comprising: converting the electrical quantity of the at least one force sensor (1000-1, 1000-2) into the electrical signal by means of an electrical circuit, preferably wherein the electrical quantity is an electrical resistance and the electrical signal is an electrical voltage signal.

[0248] While features of various aspects or embodiments of the disclosure have been described above by way of example, so that those skilled in the art may better understand the present disclosure, it is understood that aspects and embodiments other than those described in detail may also be subject to claims.

[0249] The various aspects and embodiments described above may be combined to create yet further embodiments. These and other changes may be made to the embodiments in light of the above detailed description. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the claims to the specific aspects and embodiments disclosed in the description and claims, but rather to encompass all possible embodiments, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0250] List of reference symbols:

[0251] 1st set

[0252] 2. Headband

[0253] 3. Sensor caps or sensor holders

[0254] 4. Nose clip

[0255] 5. End piece

[0256] 6. Interior, especially recess

[0257] 7. Opening

[0258] 8. Bottom side

[0259] 9. Side surface

[0260] 10. Survey

[0261] 11. Passage opening

[0262] 12. Implementation area

[0263] 13. Rejuvenation

[0264] 14. Further opening

[0265] 15. Marker

[0266] 16. Curved section

[0267] 17. Straight section

[0268] A axis

[0269] 100 assembly

[0270] 101 active sensor area

[0271] 102 additional sensors

[0272] 1000, 1000-1, 1000-2 force sensor

[0273] 1001 active layer

[0274] 1001a active area

[0275] 1002 Essay

[0276] 1002a second side surface 1002b first side surface

[0277] 1003 carriers, especially wafers

[0278] 1004 first substrate

[0279] 1005 spacer 1006 second substrate

[0280] 1010 circuit with amplifier if necessary

[0281] 1020 digital converter

[0282] 1030 Data processing unit

[0283] 1040 Body part 1050 Area of ​​a body part

Claims

Claims 1. A force sensor (1000), preferably for detecting forces occurring on a head, the force sensor comprising: an active layer (1001), wherein an electrical variable of the force sensor (1000) depends on a force acting on the active layer (1001) in such a way that a change in the force acting on the active layer (1001) causes a change in the electrical variable; characterized in that the force sensor (1000) comprises an attachment (1002) which is arranged relative to the active layer (1001) in such a way that a force acting externally on the force sensor (1000) is guided to the active layer (1001) by means of the attachment (1002).

2. The force sensor (1000) according to claim 1, wherein the force sensor (1000) is designed such that upon an increase in the force acting on the active layer (1001), the electrical quantity decreases, preferably continuously and / or proportionally; and / or wherein the force sensor (1000) is designed such that upon a decrease in the force acting on the active layer (1001), the electrical quantity increases, preferably continuously and / or proportionally.

3. The force sensor (1000) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the force sensor (1000) is designed such that in an unloaded state of the active layer (1001) an electrical contact of the force sensor (1000) is interrupted and that the electrical contact is closed by the force acting on the active layer (1001) in order to make the change in the electrical quantity measurable as a function of the change in the force acting on the active layer (1001).

4. The force sensor (1000) according to claim 3, wherein the active layer (1001) comprises a first substrate (1004) and a second substrate (1006) which are spaced apart from one another in the unloaded state of the active layer (1001) and thereby interrupt the electrical contact, wherein the two substrates (1004, 1006) are arranged such that the substrates (1004, 1006) come into contact with one another due to the force acting on the active layer (1001) and thereby close the electrical contact. 5- The force sensor (1000) according to claim 4, wherein the force acting on the active layer (1001) acts on an active surface (1001a) of the active layer (1001), the active surface (1001a) being a surface of the first substrate (1004) or the second substrate (1006).

6. The force sensor (1000) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the attachment (1002) has a first side surface (1002b) facing the active layer (1001) and / or the active surface of the active layer (1001), and wherein the attachment (1002) has a second side surface (1002a) facing away from the active layer (1001) and / or the active surface of the active layer (1001), preferably wherein the attachment (1002) is designed to guide the force acting externally on the force sensor (1000) via the second side surface (1002a), through the attachment (1002), and via the first side surface (1002b) onto the active layer (1001) and / or the active surface (1001a) of the active layer (1001).

7. The force sensor (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a first cross-section through the attachment (1002) has a larger cross-sectional area than a second cross-section through the attachment, wherein the second cross-section is further away from the active layer (1001) and / or the active area of ​​the active layer (1001) than the first cross-section.

8. The force sensor (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the attachment (1002) tapers in a direction away from the active layer (1001) and / or the active surface of the active layer (1001).

9. The force sensor (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a carrier (1003), preferably a wafer, for carrying the active layer (1001) and the attachment (1002).

10. The force sensor (1000) according to claim 9, wherein the attachment (1002) is arranged between the active layer (1001), in particular the second substrate (1006), and the carrier (1003), in particular wafer.

11. The force sensor (1000) according to claim 9, wherein the active layer (1001) is arranged between the attachment (1002) and the carrier (1003), in particular wafer, preferably wherein the second substrate (1006) is arranged between the first substrate (1004) and the carrier (1003), in particular wafer, and the first substrate (1004) is arranged between the attachment (1002) and the second substrate (1006).

12. A sensor group comprising: a first force sensor (1000-1) according to any one of the preceding claims and a second force sensor (1000-2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first force sensor (1000-1) and the second force sensor (1000-2) are electrically connected in parallel with each other.

13. An assembly (100) comprising: a force sensor (1000) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 11; a further sensor (102) which is designed to transmit and / or receive a signal via an active sensor surface (101) of the further sensor (102); wherein the force sensor (1000) is attached to a side surface of the further sensor (102), preferably opposite the active sensor surface (101), such that the attachment (1002), in particular its second side surface (1002a), faces away from the side surface of the further sensor (102).

14. The assembly (100) of claim 13, wherein the further sensor (102) is an ultrasonic probe, and wherein the signal is an ultrasonic signal.

15. A set (1) for positioning sensors on opposite regions of a head, the set (1) comprising: one or more force sensors (1000, 1000-1, 1000-2), each according to one of the preceding claims 1-11; a headband (2) designed to at least partially encircle the head; sensor holders (3) arranged on opposite regions of the headband (2), each designed to receive at least one of the force sensors; and a nose bridge (4) connected to the headband (2) and designed to support the headband (2) on a ridge of the nose of the head.

16. A set according to claim 15, wherein each of the force sensors is received in a different one of the sensor holders arranged on opposite regions of the headband such that a force exerted by the head on the force sensor (1000) acts via the attachment (1002) on the active layer (1001) of the force sensor. 17- Set according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the set comprises a first assembly (100) including the first of the force sensors (1000-1), wherein the set comprises a second assembly (100) including a second of the force sensors (1000-2), and wherein each of the two assemblies (100) comprises a further sensor (102) which is designed to transmit a signal via an active sensor surface (101) of the further sensor (102) in the direction of the head and / or to receive it from the direction of the head, and wherein in each of the assemblies (100), the respective force sensor (1000) is attached to a side surface of the respective further sensor (102), preferably opposite the active sensor surface (101), such that the attachment (1002) of the respective force sensor (1000-1, 1002-2), in particular its second side surface (1002a), facing away from the side surface of the respective further sensor (102).

18. A set according to claim 17, wherein the sensor holders (3) arranged on opposite regions of the headband (2) are designed to each accommodate at least one of the assemblies (100) together with its respective further sensor (102).

19. The assembly of claim 17 or 18, wherein in each of the assemblies (100) the further sensor (102) is an ultrasonic probe and the signal is an ultrasonic signal.

20. Fitting according to one of the preceding claims 15 to 19, wherein the force sensors (1000-1, 1000-2) are electrically connected in parallel with one another and / or wherein the electrical resistors of the force sensors (1000-1, 1000-2) are electrically connected in parallel.

21. Set according to one of the preceding claims 15 to 20, wherein the nose bridge (4) is connected to the headband (2) in a region of the headband (2) approximately centrally between the sensor holders (3).

22. A set according to any one of the preceding claims 15 to 21, wherein the headband (2) at least partially surrounds an axis (A) in a first plane extending perpendicular to the axis (A), and wherein the nosepiece (4) intersects the first plane, preferably in a direction approximately perpendicular to the first plane.

23. Set (1) according to one of the preceding claims 15 to 22, wherein the nose bridge (4) has an end piece (5) at an end opposite the headband (2), wherein the end piece (5) has a preferably approximately bow-shaped indentation aligned approximately along the axis (A), which is designed to To avoid relative movement of the nosepiece (4) to the bridge of the nose in a direction parallel to a frontal plane of the head and parallel to the first plane.

24. Sensor holder (3) for receiving at least one sensor, the sensor holder (3) comprising: a force sensor (1000) according to one of the preceding claims 1-11; a container with a preferably cylindrical interior (6), preferably an approximately cylindrical recess (6), for receiving the force sensor (1000), wherein the container has an opening (7) on one side, preferably for inserting at least part of the force sensor into the interior (6), and the interior (6) is at least partially delimited by a bottom side (8) of the container opposite the opening (7) and by at least one side surface (9) of the container, preferably wherein the bottom side and the at least one side surface of the container are designed to support the force sensor (1000) received in the interior, preferably wherein the opening (7) is defined by an edge of the recess.

25. Sensor holder (3) according to claim 24, wherein the sensor holder comprises an assembly (100) which includes the force sensor (1000), and wherein the assembly (100) comprises a further sensor (102) which is designed to transmit and / or receive a signal via an active sensor surface (101) of the further sensor, and wherein in the assembly (100) the force sensor (1000) is attached to a side surface of the respective further sensor (102), preferably opposite the active sensor surface (101), such that the attachment (1002) of the force sensor (1000), in particular its second side surface (1002a), faces away from the side surface of the further sensor (102).

26. The assembly according to any one of claims 15 to 23 or the sensor holders according to any one of claims 24 to 25, wherein each force sensor (1000) or assembly (100) is arranged in one of the sensor holders or in the recess of the sensor holders.

27. Use of a force sensor (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 11, a sensor group (1000-1, 1000-2) according to claim 12, an assembly (100) according to one of claims 13-14, a set (1) according to one of claims 15-23 or 26, or a sensor holder (3) according to one of claims 24-26 for detecting a carlot movement of a skull.

28. Computer-assisted method for detecting a carlot movement of a skull of a head by means of a set (1) arranged on the head according to one of claims 15-23 or 26, the method comprising: Detecting an electrical signal generated by the electrical quantity of at least one of the force sensors (1000-1, 1000-2); and Detecting the carlotte movement based on the detected electrical signal.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein the electrical signal is a periodic electrical signal and the carlot movement is detected based on a change in the amplitude of the periodic electrical signal.

30. The method according to claim 28 or 29, wherein the at least one force sensor (1000-1, 1000-2) is arranged on the head by means of the fitting such that a force caused by the carlot movement acts via the attachment (1002) on the active layer (1001) of the at least one force sensor.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein the electrical signal correlates with the force caused by the carlot movement such that a change in the force caused by the carlot movement causes a change in the amplitude of the electrical signal.

32. Computer-assisted method for determining a physiological parameter of a patient by means of at least one force sensor (1000) arranged on a region (1050) of a body part, preferably an artery, of the patient according to one of claims 1-11, the method comprising: Detecting an electrical signal generated by the electrical quantity of the force sensor (1000); and Determine the physiological parameter based on the detected electrical signal.

33. The method according to claim 32, wherein the force sensor (1000) is arranged on the region (1050) such that a force caused by the region (1050) acts via the attachment (1002) on the active layer (1001) of the at least one force sensor (1000). 34- Computer-aided method for generating a control signal for a software application by means of one or more force sensors (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 11 or a set (1) according to one of claims 15-23 or 26 arranged on a body part (1040), preferably a head, the method comprising: Detecting a pattern in an electrical signal generated by the electrical quantity of at least one of the force sensors (1000-1, 1000-2); and in response to the detected pattern, generating a control signal for a function of the software application.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein different detected patterns correspond to control signals of different functions of the software application.

36. The method according to claim 34 or 35, wherein at least one of the force sensors (1000-1, 1000-2) is arranged on the body part (1040), preferably by means of the fitting (1), in such a way that a force caused by a movement of a muscle on the body part (1040) acts via the attachment (1002) on the active layer (1001) of the at least one force sensor (1000-1, 1000-2).

37. The method according to any one of claims 28-36, further comprising: Converting the electrical quantity of the at least one force sensor (1000-1, 1000-2) into the electrical signal by means of an electrical circuit, preferably wherein the electrical quantity is an electrical resistance and the electrical signal is an electrical voltage signal.

38. A force sensor (1000) for detecting forces occurring on a head, the force sensor comprising: an active layer (1001), wherein an electrical variable of the force sensor (1000) depends on a force acting on the active layer (1001) in such a way that a change in the force acting on the active layer (1001) causes a change in the electrical variable; wherein the force sensor (1000) comprises an attachment (1002) arranged relative to the active layer (1001) in such a way that a force acting externally on the force sensor (1000) is directed to the active layer (1001) by means of the attachment (1002); characterized in that the force sensor further comprises: a carrier (1003), preferably a wafer, for supporting the active layer (1001) and the attachment (1002).

39. The force sensor (1000) according to claim 38, wherein the attachment (1002) is arranged between the active layer (1001) and the carrier (1003), in particular a wafer, or wherein the active layer (1001) is arranged between the attachment (1002) and the carrier (1003), in particular a wafer.

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