Pressure sensor and remote pressure detection system

Abstract

To provide a pressure sensor or the like capable of correctly detecting pressure to be applied on an object from the outside as a plane.SOLUTION: A pressure sensor comprises: a plurality of planarly arranged sensor pixels PX each including a film-shaped pressure sensitive film 2 in which a resistance value is changed by being pressed from a front surface, and a first electrode layer 4 and a second electrode layer 6 which are laminated only on a rear surface of the pressure sensitive film 2; and a drive circuit for respectively detecting pressure of the pressing for each sensor pixel PX based on the change of the resistance value caused by pressing with respect to the sensor pixels PX.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical fields of pressure sensors and remote pressure detection systems, and more particularly to pressure sensors that detect the value of pressure applied to an object from the outside, and remote pressure detection systems that use the pressure sensors. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, various types of pressure sensors have been developed as pressure sensors for detecting pressure applied to an object from the outside. For example, the following Patent Document 1 is an example of a prior art document showing a conventional technique related to such pressure sensors.

[0003] The pressure sensor disclosed in Patent Document 1 comprises at least an electrode substrate having at least a pair of electrodes provided on the substrate, a pressure-sensitive conductive member whose electrical resistance value changes depending on the change in contact area with the electrode substrate when pressure is applied, an insulating coating member that covers at least the pressure application surface of the pressure-sensitive conductive member, and wiring portions that are each electrically connected to the electrodes, and the insulating coating member has at least an adhesive layer and a flexible film having a Young's modulus of 1.7 GPa (gigapascals) or more and 6.5 GPa or less and a thickness of 10 μm or more and 100 μm or less, and is configured so that the pressure-sensitive conductive member is fixed onto the electrode substrate by adhering the adhesive layer to the electrode substrate. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2012-159463 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the prior art described in the above Patent Document 1 does not take into consideration the detection of pressure applied from the outside to an object as a surface having a certain degree of width. Therefore, the prior art has a problem in that it cannot meet the need to detect the pressure as a surface, such as the pressure applied to the skin during palpation in the medical field.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and one example of the object of the present invention is to provide a pressure sensor capable of accurately detecting pressure applied from the outside to an object as a surface, and a remote pressure detection system using the pressure sensor. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 1 comprises a plurality of pressure detection units arranged in a planar shape, each pressure detection unit having a film-shaped resistor whose resistance value changes when pressed from the front surface, and a drive wire laminated only on the back surface of the resistor, and a detection means for driving the drive wire for each of the pressure detection units, and detecting the pressure of the pressure for each of the pressure detection units from the change in the resistance value due to pressing against the multiple pressure detection units.

[0008] According to the invention described in claim 1, the driving wires laminated only on the back surface of the film-like resistor, whose resistance value changes when the front surface is pressed, are driven for each pressure detection unit, so that the pressure of the pressure caused by the change in resistance value in the multiple pressure detection units is detected for each pressure detection unit. Therefore, by laminating each driving wire only on the back surface of the film-like resistor, it is possible to simplify the manufacturing process and reduce the manufacturing cost of the pressure sensor, and it is possible to improve the detection sensitivity of pressure by directly pressing the resistor from the front surface side of the pressure detection unit, and further, it is possible to detect pressure as a surface by the pressure detection units arranged in a planar shape.

[0009] In order to solve the above problem, according to a second aspect of the present invention, in the pressure sensor according to the first aspect, a protrusion is further provided on the surface of the resistor in each of the pressure detection portions.

[0010] According to the invention recited in claim 2, in addition to the effect of the invention recited in claim 1, a protrusion is further provided on the surface of the resistor in each pressure detection portion, thereby improving the sensitivity of pressure detection.

[0011] In order to solve the above problems, the invention as recited in claim 3 is the pressure sensor as recited in claim 2, wherein the protrusion is a rod-shaped protrusion erected on the surface.

[0012] According to the invention recited in claim 3, in addition to the effect of the invention recited in claim 2, since the protrusion is a rod-shaped protrusion erected on the surface of the resistor, the sensitivity of pressure detection can be further improved.

[0013] In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 4 relates to a pressure sensor described in any one of claims 1 to 3, in which a plurality of the pressure detection units are regularly arranged in an array, each of the pressure detection units has a plurality of the drive lines, and the detection means is configured to drive each of the drive lines provided in the plurality of pressure detection units by either a sequential drive method or a multiple parallel drive method.

[0014] According to the invention described in claim 4, in addition to the function of any one of the inventions described in claims 1 to 3, a plurality of pressure detection units are regularly arranged in an array, and each drive line provided in each of the plurality of pressure detection units is driven by either a sequential drive method or a multiple parallel drive method, so that the change in resistance value in each pressure detection unit can be accurately detected as a surface.

[0015] In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 5 relates to a pressure sensor described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein one of the pressure detection parts has a first drive line and two second drive lines which are drive lines that intersect at the position of the pressure detection part on the back surface, and the detection means is configured to drive each of the drive lines by either (i) a drive method that drives the first drive line and the second drive line constituting one of the pressure detection parts independently of each other, or (ii) a drive method that drives the two second drive lines constituting one of the pressure detection parts independently of each other.

[0016] According to the invention described in claim 5, in addition to the effect of the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 4, one pressure detection section has a first driving line and a second driving line that intersect at the position of the pressure detection section, and each driving line is driven by either the driving method (i) or the driving method (ii), thereby improving the resolution of pressure detection.

[0017] In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 6 relates to a pressure sensor described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each of the pressure detection parts is provided with a shielding means for electrically shielding the pressure detection part from the other pressure detection parts, and the detection means is configured to drive the pressure detection part that is the driving target while keeping the shielding means provided in the other pressure detection parts other than the pressure detection part that is the driving target at the same potential.

[0018] According to the invention described in claim 6, in addition to the effect of the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 5, each pressure detection unit is provided with a shielding means, and the shielding means provided on the pressure detection units other than the pressure detection unit to be driven are mutually at the same potential, so that it is possible to prevent the formation of a so-called current path to a pressure detection unit that is not pressed, thereby improving the pressure detection sensitivity.

[0019] In order to solve the above problems, the invention described in claim 7 relates to a pressure sensor described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the pressure detection unit is arranged in a shape that allows it to be worn on the tip of a person's finger, and further includes an attachment means for attaching the pressure sensor to the tip.

[0020] According to the invention described in claim 7, in addition to the effect of the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 6, the pressure detection unit is arranged in a shape that allows it to be attached to the tip of a person's finger, and further includes an attachment means for attaching the pressure sensor to the tip of a person's finger, so that it is possible to accurately detect pressure, for example, when a doctor palpates a person.

[0021] In order to solve the above problems, the invention as recited in claim 8 is the pressure sensor as recited in claim 7, wherein the pressure detection portion has a shape that allows it to be worn on the tip like a finger ring.

[0022] According to the invention described in claim 8, in addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 7, the pressure detection unit has a shape that allows it to be worn like a ring on the tip of a person's finger, so that it is possible to accurately detect pressure while preventing it from falling off the fingertip during palpation, for example.

[0023] In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 9 relates to a pressure sensor described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the detection means is configured to further detect the depth of the pressure based on the width of an area on the pressure sensor including the position of the pressure detection portion where the pressure is detected.

[0024] According to the invention described in claim 9, in addition to the effect of the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 8, the depth of pressure is further detected based on the width of the area on the pressure sensor including the position of the pressure detection portion where the change in resistance value is detected, so that detection of pressure based on the change in resistance value and detection of the depth of pressure can be performed simultaneously.

[0025] In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 10 comprises a pressure sensor described in any one of claims 1 to 9, a transmitting means for transmitting detection data indicating the detection result of the pressure, a receiving means for receiving the transmitted detection data, and an output means for outputting the detection result indicated by the received detection data.

[0026] According to the invention described in claim 10, in addition to the action of the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 9, detection data indicating the pressure detection result by the pressure sensor is transmitted, the detection data is received, and the detection result indicated by the received detection data is output, so that the pressure detection result by the pressure sensor can be recognized even in a location away from the location where the pressure sensor is located. Effect of the Invention

[0027] According to the present invention, a driving line laminated only on the back surface of a film-shaped resistor whose resistance value changes when the surface is pressed is driven for each pressure detection unit, so that the pressure of the pressure caused by the change in resistance value in multiple pressure detection units is detected for each pressure detection unit.

[0028] Therefore, by laminating each driving line only on the back surface of the film-shaped resistor, the manufacturing process for the pressure sensor can be simplified and manufacturing costs can be reduced, and the pressure detection sensitivity can be improved by pressing the resistor from the front surface side of the pressure detection portion.Furthermore, the pressure can be detected as a surface by the pressure detection portion arranged in a planar shape. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a remote pressure detection system according to an embodiment; [Diagram 2] 1A to 1F are external views showing the structure of an indenter of an embodiment, where (a) is a top view, (b) is a rear view, (c) is a left side view, (d) is a front view, (e) is a right side view, and (f) is a bottom view. [Diagram 3]1A to 1D are external views showing the structure of a sensor unit according to an embodiment, in which (a) is a top view, (b) is a longitudinal side view, (c) is a transverse side view, and (d) is a bottom view. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a structure of a sensor pixel of an embodiment, where (a) is a plan view showing the structure of a first electrode layer, and (b) is a plan view showing the structure of a second electrode layer. [Diagram 5] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a pressure sensor according to an embodiment; [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram showing a detailed configuration of the pressure sensor according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] 4 is a timing chart (i) showing the operation of the pressure sensor according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] 13 is a timing chart (ii) showing the operation of the pressure sensor according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] 11 is a timing chart (iii) showing the operation of the pressure sensor according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] 5A and 5B are diagrams showing examples of pressure display in the pressure sensor of the embodiment, where FIG. 5A is a diagram showing the example of pressure display, and FIG. 5B is a diagram showing calculation of the press-in depth using the pressure sensor of the embodiment. [Figure 11] 5A to 5C are graphs illustrating detection of the indentation depth and the viscosity in the pressure sensor according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] 1A and 1B are plan views showing the structure of a sensor pixel of a first modified embodiment, in which (a) is a plan view showing the structure of a first electrode layer, and (b) is a plan view showing the structure of a second electrode layer. [Figure 13] 13A and 13B are plan views showing the structure of a sensor pixel of a second modified embodiment, in which (a) is a plan view showing the structure of a first electrode layer, and (b) is a plan view showing the structure of a second electrode layer. [Figure 14] 13A and 13B are plan views showing the structure of a sensor pixel of a third modified embodiment, in which (a) is a plan view showing the structure of a first electrode layer, and (b) is a plan view showing the structure of a second electrode layer. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is an external perspective view showing the structure of an indenter of a fourth modified embodiment. [Figure 16]13A and 13B are graphs showing an improvement in accuracy of pressure detection by the indenter structure of the fourth modified embodiment, where (a) is a graph showing the improvement in accuracy (i), and (b) is a graph showing the improvement in accuracy (ii). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0030] Next, the embodiment for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 16. The embodiment and each modified form described below are the embodiment and modified form when the present invention is applied to a remote pressure detection system that transmits pressure data indicating the pressure detected by a pressure sensor attached to, for example, the finger of a doctor palpating an affected part of a patient to another doctor located away from the doctor performing the palpation and who performs a diagnosis associated with the palpation based on the pressure data. In the following description, the doctor performing the palpation of the patient is referred to as the "first doctor", and the doctor performing a diagnosis based on the pressure data is referred to as the "second doctor".

[0031] (I) Embodiment First, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 11. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a remote pressure detection system of the embodiment, Fig. 2 is an external view showing the structure of an indenter of the embodiment, Fig. 3 is an external view showing the structure of a sensor unit of the embodiment, and Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the structure of a sensor pixel of the embodiment. Here, the structures of the sensor pixels other than the sensor pixel shown in Fig. 4 are similar to the structure of the sensor pixel shown in Fig. 4. Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a pressure sensor of the embodiment, Fig. 6 is a circuit diagram showing a detailed configuration of the pressure sensor, and Figs. 7 to 9 are timing charts showing the operation of the pressure sensor. Furthermore, Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of pressure display in the pressure sensor, and Fig. 11 is a graph diagram explaining the detection of the indentation depth and viscosity in the pressure sensor.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 1, the remote pressure detection system SS of the embodiment is composed of a transmitting device T that is installed at the location of the first doctor D1 who palpates the patient P, for example with his finger, generates the pressure data 50 and generates image data 51 by photographing the palpation, and transmits the pressure data 50 and the image data 51, a processing device R that is installed at the location of the second doctor D2 and outputs the results of the palpation based on the transmitted pressure data 50 and image data 51, and a network NW such as the Internet that connects the transmitting device T and the processing device R so that the pressure data 50 and the image data 51 can be exchanged.

[0033] The transmitting device T is composed of a pressure sensor SC having a sensor unit 1 and its driving circuit 20, a camera C, a synthesis unit MX, and a transmitting unit TM. The processing device R is composed of a receiving unit RV, a separation unit SP, a tactile sensation reproduction unit TR operated by the second doctor D2, a depth detection unit DD, a viscosity detection unit VD, an image processing unit GP, and a display DP consisting of a liquid crystal display or the like. In this case, the driving circuit 20 corresponds to an example of the "detection means" of the present application, the transmitting unit TM corresponds to an example of the "transmission means" of the present application, the receiving unit RV corresponds to an example of the "receiving means" of the present application, and the display DP corresponds to an example of the "output means" of the present application.

[0034] In the above configuration, the sensor unit 1 of the pressure sensor SC constituting the transmission device T is configured by arranging a plurality of sensor pixels, which will be described later, in a planar array. At this time, each sensor pixel corresponds to an example of the "pressure detection unit" of the present application. The sensor unit 1 is disposed on the surface of an indenter (the surface of the indenter that comes into contact with the skin of the affected part of the patient P by the above palpation) of an embodiment having a shape that can be attached to the fingertip of the first doctor D1's finger (the finger that performs the above palpation on the patient P). Each sensor pixel constituting the sensor unit 1 is driven by a drive circuit 20 of the pressure sensor SC, detects the pressure applied to each sensor pixel by the above palpation, generates the above pressure data 50 indicating the pressure, and outputs it to the synthesis unit MX. At this time, the pressure applied to each sensor pixel is a pressure applied to each sensor pixel as a repulsive force from the affected part when the affected part of the patient P is pressed by the above finger (the above finger wearing the indenter equipped with the sensor unit 1) of the first doctor D1 by the above palpation.

[0035] On the other hand, the camera C that constitutes the transmitting device T has an imaging range capable of imaging both the first doctor D1 and the patient P receiving palpation by the first doctor D1, and in parallel with the detection of pressure from the affected area of ​​the patient P by the pressure sensor SC, the camera C generates the image data 51 as the imaging result during the palpation and outputs it to the synthesis unit MX.

[0036] The synthesis unit MX constituting the transmission device T synthesizes the pressure data 50 from the pressure sensor SC and the image data 51 from the camera C using a preset existing synthesis format, generates synthetic data 52 addressed to the processing device R, and transmits it to the transmission unit TM. As a result, the transmission unit TM constituting the transmission device T transmits the synthetic data 52 to the processing device R via the network NW using a preset existing transmission format.

[0037] Next, the composite data 52 transmitted from the transmitting device T via the network NW is received by the receiving unit RV constituting the processing unit R and output to the separating unit SP. As a result, the separating unit SP constituting the processing device R separates the image data 51 and the pressure data 50 from the composite data 52, outputs the image data 51 to the image processing unit GP, and outputs the pressure data 50 to the image processing unit GP, the tactile reproduction unit TR, the depth detection unit DD, and the viscosity detection unit VD. After that, the image processing unit GP constituting the processing device R outputs the image data 51 to the display DP constituting the transmitting device T and disposed at a position where the second doctor D2 can see it. As a result, the second doctor D2 can visually confirm the state of the palpation by the first doctor D1 who is in a remote place together with the patient P. From the state of the palpation, the second doctor D2 can, for example, confirm the position of the part (affected part) of the patient P being palpated and the reaction of the patient P to the palpation (for example, whether or not it hurts, etc.). In addition, the image processing unit GP visibly displays the pressure and its distribution detected in each sensor pixel constituting the sensor unit 1 on the display DP based on the pressure data 50. More specifically, the image processing unit GP uses the display DP to display the pressure detected by each sensor pixel in a shape and position that matches the position of each sensor pixel in the sensor unit 1, for example, in a color according to the magnitude of the pressure (see FIG. 10(a)). The display manner of the pressure and its distribution on the display DP will be specifically described later with reference to FIG. 10 etc.

[0038] On the other hand, the tactile sensation reproducing unit TR constituting the processing device R reproduces the tactile sensation of the palpation by the first doctor D1 based on the pressure data 50 separated by the separating unit SP. More specifically, the tactile sensation reproducing unit TR is attached to the finger of the second doctor D2, which is the same as the finger of the first doctor D1 performing the palpation, and reproduces the tactile sensation by applying pressure based on the pressure data 50 to the attached finger. As a result, the second doctor D2 can feel the reproduced pressure with his own finger and obtain the tactile sensation as if the second doctor D2 had directly palpated the patient P. At this time, the second doctor D2 can visually confirm the display DP, and as a result, can recognize which part of the patient P the tactile sensation of the palpation reproduced by the tactile sensation reproducing unit TR is from and the above-mentioned reaction of the patient P to the palpation.

[0039] Next, the depth detection unit DD constituting the processing device R detects the depth to which the finger of the first doctor D1, to which the indenter of the embodiment in which the sensor unit 1 is disposed, is pressed from the surface of the affected part of the patient P during the palpation based on the pressure data 50 separated by the separation unit SP, generates depth data 53 indicating the detected depth, and outputs the depth data 53 to the image processing unit GP and the viscosity detection unit VD. The image processing unit GP then displays the depth on the display DP based on the depth data 53. At this time, the depth detection unit DD detects the depth based on the pressure distribution on the surface of the sensor unit 1 on which each sensor pixel is disposed, that is, the width of the range of the surface of the sensor unit 1 on which the sensor pixel in which the pressure is detected is present. The detection of the depth by the depth detection unit DD will be specifically described later with reference to FIG. 10 and the like.

[0040] Furthermore, the viscosity detection unit VD constituting the processing device R detects the viscosity of the affected area of ​​the patient P when the finger of the first doctor D1 to which the indenter of the embodiment is attached is pressed into the skin (surface) of the affected area of ​​the patient P during the palpation, based on the pressure data 50 separated by the separation unit SP and the depth data 53 from the depth detection unit DD, and generates viscosity data 54 indicating the detected viscosity and outputs it to the image processing unit GP. The image processing unit GP then displays the viscosity on the display DP based on the viscosity data 54. The detection of the viscosity by this viscosity detection unit VD will be specifically described later using FIG. 11 etc.

[0041] Thanks to the functions of the remote pressure detection system SS of the embodiment described above, a second doctor D2 who is located away from the patient P can, in collaboration with the first doctor D1 who actually palpates the patient P, obtain information as if the second doctor D2 were directly palpating the patient P, thereby enabling an accurate diagnosis, etc., for the patient P.

[0042] Next, a specific configuration and operation of the pressure sensor SC of the embodiment including the sensor unit 1 and the drive circuit 20 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0043] First, the structure of the indenter of the embodiment, in which a sensor unit 1 configured by arranging a plurality of sensor pixels in a planar array is disposed on its surface, will be described with reference to Fig. 2. As described above, the indenter of the embodiment is used by being attached to, for example, the tip of the index finger of the first doctor D1. The indenter ID corresponds to an example of the "attaching means" of the present application.

[0044] That is, as shown in the six-sided view of the appearance in FIG. 2, the indenter ID is configured to include a plate-shaped base material 10 with a plurality of holes for weight reduction, a fixed ring 11 through which the finger is passed when the indenter ID is attached to the fingertip, and an attachment ring 12 through which the fingertip is passed and on whose outer surface the sensor unit 1 is fixed. At this time, the sensor unit 1 has the sensor pixels arranged in a planar array shape, and is a plate-like shape curved along the outer surface of the attachment ring 12 as a whole. The finger on which the indenter ID is attached is passed in the direction indicated by the white arrow in FIG. 2(c) and FIG. 2(e), that is, through the fixed ring 11 and the attachment ring 12, in the direction from the fixed ring 11 to the attachment ring 12. The indenter ID as a whole except for the sensor unit 1 is, for example, an integrally molded structure made of resin.

[0045] Next, the structure of the sensor unit 1 disposed on the outer surface of the mounting ring 12 of the indenter ID will be specifically described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Note that in Figure 3, the connection lines connecting the sensor unit 1 and the drive circuit 20 are omitted. For clarity of explanation, Figure 3 shows the structure of the sensor unit 1 (see Figure 2) curved along the outer surface of the mounting ring 12 in a plan view.

[0046] As shown in a top view in Fig. 3, the sensor unit 1 of the embodiment is configured by stacking the second electrode layer 6, the insulating layer 5 made of a thin insulating material, the first electrode layer 4, the film-like protective layer 3, and the film-like pressure-sensitive layer 2, the resistance value of which changes when an external pressure is applied, from the side fixed to the mounting ring 12. In this configuration, the pressure-sensitive layer 2 comes into contact with the skin of the affected area of ​​the patient P by palpation by the first doctor D1. As shown in Fig. 3(a), the sensor pixels PX11 to PX314 of the embodiment are formed at positions where three rows of row electrodes provided in the first electrode layer 4 intersect with 14 columns of column electrodes provided in the first electrode layer 4 and the second electrode layer 6 (a total of 42 intersection positions (3 rows x 14 columns)). That is, the first sensor pixel row is formed by the sensor pixels PX11 to PX114 shown in FIG. 3(a), the second sensor pixel row is formed by the sensor pixels PX21 to PX214, and the third sensor pixel row is formed by the sensor pixels PX31 to PX314. With this configuration, the sensor unit 1 of the embodiment is formed by arranging 42 sensor pixels PX11 to PX314 in a lattice shape. Then, at the positions of the protective layer 3 described later corresponding to each of the sensor pixels PX11 to PX314, openings described later are provided for contacting the row electrodes and column electrodes constituting the sensor pixels PX11 to PX314 with the pressure-sensitive layer 2. In addition, the row electrodes and the column electrodes are driven by the drive circuit 20, so that the pressure applied to the sensor unit 1 by the palpation is detected for each of the sensor pixels PX11 to PX314.

[0047] Next, the configuration of the row electrodes and the column electrodes constituting each of the sensor pixels PX11 to PX314 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 shows in a plan view the configuration of the row electrodes and the column electrodes formed in the area A including the sensor pixels PX17 to PX19 and the sensor pixels PX27 to PX29 in the sensor unit 1 shown in Fig. 3(a). At this time, the configuration of the row electrodes and the column electrodes is the same for the other sensor pixels PX11 to PX16, the sensor pixels PX110 to PX114, the sensor pixels PX21 to PX26, and the sensor pixels PX210 to PX314. Fig. 4(a) shows in a plan view the configuration of the row electrodes and the column electrodes formed in the first electrode layer 4, and Fig. 4(b) shows in a plan view the configuration of the column electrodes formed in the second electrode layer 6 with the insulating layer 5 sandwiched between the first electrode layer 4 and the second electrode layer 6. In the following description, when matters common to the sensor pixels PX11 to PX314 are described, they will be collectively referred to as "sensor pixel PX."

[0048] As shown in Fig. 4(a), in the first electrode layer 4 corresponding to one sensor pixel PX, a row electrode E1 that is annular in the one sensor pixel PX and common to the row of the sensor pixel PX to which the one sensor pixel PX belongs, and a column electrode E2 that is annular in the one sensor pixel PX and located inside the row electrode E1 are formed to be insulated from each other. At this time, the row electrodes E1 between the rows of the sensor pixels PX are insulated from each other. In addition, the above-mentioned opening 3A (shown by a dotted line in Fig. 4(a)) is opened at the position of the protective layer 3 corresponding to the one sensor pixel PX, so that the row electrode E1 and the column electrode E2 in the first electrode layer 4 are insulated from each other and are formed to contact the pressure-sensitive layer 2.

[0049] On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 4(b), in the second electrode layer 6 corresponding to one sensor pixel PX, a column electrode E3 is formed which is shared within the column of the sensor pixel PX to which the one sensor pixel PX belongs and is connected to the column electrode E2 formed corresponding to the one sensor pixel PX through a via V (via V penetrating the insulating layer 5). At this time, between each column of the sensor pixels PX, the column electrodes E2 and column electrodes E3 are insulated from each other. The column electrodes E2 and E3 and the row electrodes E2 are driven by the driving circuit 20 for each column and for each row, and the pressure-sensitive layer 2 to which pressure from the affected part of the patient P is applied contacts with the row electrodes E1 and column electrodes E2 in the first electrode layer 4 through the openings 3A, thereby detecting the pressure of the sensor pixel PX. The detected pressure value is output as the pressure data 50 from the driving circuit 20 as described later. At this time, the portion of the pressure-sensitive layer 2 that is in contact with the row electrode E1 and column electrode E2 in the first electrode layer 4 through the opening 3A can be regarded as a variable resistor (i.e., a variable resistor connected between the row electrode E1 and the column electrode E2 (column electrode E3)) whose electrical resistance value changes depending on the pressure applied to that portion (in this embodiment, the pressure received from the affected skin of the patient P).

[0050] Next, the configuration and operation of the drive circuit 20 that drives the sensor unit 1 having the configuration described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0051] 5, the driving circuit 20 of the embodiment connected to the sensor unit 1 is composed of a power controller 21 that switches three row electrodes E1 in a time-division manner and is connected to each row electrode E1, a power controller 22, and a processing unit 23 equipped with a (i.e., 14-bit) column scanning unit 24 that switches 14 column electrodes E2 (column electrodes E3) in a time-division manner and is connected to each column electrode E2 (column electrodes E3). At this time, a power supply voltage VDD_base is applied to each of the power controller 21 and the power controller 22. Then, the power controller 22 generates VDD as a power supply voltage for the processing unit 23 based on the VDD_base and outputs it to the processing unit 23.

[0052] On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 6, the power controller 21 is configured by connecting a row scanning section 21A, which switches three row electrodes E1 in a time-division manner to each row electrode E1, FETs (Field Effect Transistors) 21B to 21D, a differential amplifier 21E, fixed resistors 21F and 21G in the manner shown in Fig. 6. Note that in Fig. 6, each sensor pixel PX is shown as a variable resistor. At this time, the VDD_base is applied to the FETs 21B and 21D, and the VDD is applied to the positive terminal of the differential amplifier 21E. Pressure data for each row electrode E1 is output as an analog signal V from the connection point between the fixed resistors 21F and 21G. OUT Then, the analog signal V OUTThe pressure data as the pressure data 50 is converted into digital data of an arbitrary number of bits (for example, 10 bits) in the processing unit 23 and output as the pressure data 50. By the driving circuit 20 having the above configuration, while one row electrode E1 is selected by the row scanning unit 21A, the column electrode E2 (column electrode E3) is scanned and driven by the column scanning unit 24 in a time-division manner. Next, while the second row electrode E1 is selected by the row scanning unit 21A, the column electrode E2 (column electrode E3) is scanned and driven by the column scanning unit 24 in a time-division manner. Furthermore, while the third row electrode E1 is selected by the row scanning unit 21A, the column electrode E2 (column electrode E3) is scanned and driven by the column scanning unit 24 in a time-division manner. Thereafter, the scanning and driving of each row electrode E1 and the scanning and driving of each column electrode E2 (column electrode E3) are repeated. As a result, pressure data 50 as pressure detection in each sensor pixel PX is output from the pressure sensor SC in a time-division manner. In this case, the row electrode E1 functions as a so-called readout line, and the column electrode E2 (column electrode E3) functions as both a so-called power supply line and an address line.

[0053] More specifically, in the sensor unit 1, during a period in which the row electrode E1 (shown by vertical and horizontal hatching in FIG. 7) of the first row corresponding to the sensor pixels PX11 to PX114 in FIG. 7 is selected by the row scanning unit 21A, the sensor pixels PX11 to PX114 are sequentially scanned and driven in a time-division manner by the column scanning unit 24 as shown without hatching in FIG. 7. At this time, the column scanning unit 24 scans and drives the target sensor pixels PX by, for example, sequentially setting their potentials to ground potential. As a result, the processing unit 23 outputs the pressure data 50 indicating the pressures detected in the sensor pixels PX11 to PX114, respectively, to the synthesis unit MX (see FIG. 1) as digital data. At this time, the column electrodes E2 (column electrodes E3) corresponding to the sensor pixels including the row electrode E1 of the first row other than the sensor pixel PX (see no hatching in FIG. 7) scanned during the period in which the row electrode E1 of the first row is selected by the row scanning section 21A are all set to the same potential (e.g., power supply voltage VDD) by the processing section 23 (see diagonal hatching in FIG. 7). Also, the sensor pixels PX21 to PX314 (excluding the sensor pixels PX (see no hatching in FIG. 7) scanned and driven by the column scanning section 24) corresponding to the row electrodes E1 not selected in FIG. 7 are all set to the same potential (e.g., power supply voltage VDD) by the processing section 23 (see diagonal hatching in FIG. 7).

[0054] Similarly, during a period in which the row electrodes E1 (shown by vertical and horizontal hatching in FIG. 8) of the second row corresponding to the sensor pixels PX21 to PX214 in FIG. 8 are selected by the row scanning section 21A, the sensor pixels PX21 to PX214 are sequentially scanned and driven in a time-division manner by the column scanning section 24 in the same manner as in the case shown in FIG. 7, as shown without hatching in FIG. 8. As a result, the pressure data 50 indicating the pressure detected in each of the sensor pixels PX21 to PX214 is output as digital data from the processing section 23 to the synthesis section MX. At this time, the column electrodes E2 (column electrodes E3) corresponding to the sensor pixels PX including the row electrodes E1 of the second row other than the sensor pixels PX (see no hatching) scanned during the period in which the row electrodes E1 of the second row are selected by the row scanning section 21A are all set to the same potential (for example, power supply voltage VDD) by the processing section 23 (see diagonal hatching in FIG. 8). In addition, the sensor pixels PX11 to PX114 and the sensor pixels PX31 to PX314 corresponding to the row electrode E1 that is not selected in Figure 8 (excluding the sensor pixels PX that are scanned and driven by the column scanning unit 24 (see no hatching in Figure 8)) are all set to the same potential (e.g., power supply voltage VDD) by the processing unit 23 (see diagonal hatching in Figure 8).

[0055] Similarly, during a period in which the row electrode E1 (shown by vertical and horizontal hatching in FIG. 9) of the third row corresponding to the sensor pixels PX31 to PX314 in FIG. 9 is selected by the row scanning section 21A, the sensor pixels PX31 to PX314 are sequentially scanned and driven in a time-division manner by the column scanning section 24 in the same manner as in the case shown in FIG. 7, as shown without hatching in FIG. 9. As a result, the pressure data 50 indicating the pressure detected in each of the sensor pixels PX31 to PX314 is output as digital data from the processing section 23 to the synthesis section MX. At this time, the column electrodes E2 (column electrodes E3) corresponding to the sensor pixels PX including the row electrode E1 of the third row other than the sensor pixel PX (see no hatching) scanned during the period in which the row electrode E1 of the third row is selected by the row scanning section 21A are all set to the same potential (for example, power supply voltage VDD) by the processing section 23 (see diagonal hatching in FIG. 9). In addition, the sensor pixels PX11 to PX214 corresponding to the row electrodes E1 that are not selected in Figure 9 (excluding the sensor pixels PX that are scanned and driven by the column scanning unit 24 (see no hatching in Figure 9)) are all set to the same potential (e.g., power supply voltage VDD) by the processing unit 23 (see diagonal hatching in Figure 9).

[0056] By the function of the pressure sensor SC described above, the pressure detected during the above-mentioned palpation in each of the sensor pixels PX constituting the sensor unit 1 is output to the synthesis unit MX as pressure data 50 in a time-division manner for each sensor pixel PX.

[0057] Next, the processing in the processing device R executed using the pressure data 50 output from the transmitting device T by the function of the transmitting device T will be specifically explained using Figures 10 and 11, particularly the processing of the image processing unit GP, the depth detection unit DD, and the viscosity detection unit VD.

[0058] First, the image processing unit GP of the processing device R uses the display DP to display the pressure detected by each sensor pixel PX in a shape and position that matches the position of each sensor pixel PX in the sensor unit 1, for example in a color corresponding to the magnitude of the pressure, based on the pressure data 50. More specifically, as shown in Fig. 10(a), the image processing unit GP displays the pressure detected by each sensor pixel PX in a color that matches the position of each sensor pixel PX, based on the pressure data 50. In the example shown in Fig. 10(a), the lighter the color, the higher the pressure detected by the sensor pixel PX.

[0059] Next, the depth detection unit DD of the processing device R detects the indentation depth δ to which the finger of the first doctor D1, to which the indenter ID is attached, is pressed into the skin SK of the affected part of the patient P during the palpation based on the pressure data 50. zn is detected, and the detected indentation depth δ zn The depth data 53 representing the depth is generated and output to the image processing unit GP and the viscosity detection unit VD. The image processing unit GP then displays the depth on the display DP based on the depth data 53. Specifically, the depth detection unit DD first calculates a pressure F obtained by adding up the pressures represented by the pressure data 50 from all the sensor pixels PX, in accordance with the principle shown in FIG. 10(b). n and the above-mentioned indentation depth δ zn Next, the depth detection unit DD detects the pressure F obtained by pressing the finger of the first doctor D1 into the skin SK of the affected part of the patient P during the palpation. n and the above-mentioned indentation depth δ zn From the continuous values ​​of , for example, the indentation depth δ shown in Fig. 11 zn A graph showing the relationship between the pressure F and the elasticity value is generated. In Fig. 11, "x" indicates the actual measurement value when the finger of the first doctor D1 is pressed into the skin SK, "●" indicates the actual measurement value when the finger of the first doctor D1 is removed from the skin SK, the graph indicated by the symbol "G1" indicates the virtual elasticity curve when the finger of the first doctor D1 is pressed into the skin SK, and the graph indicated by the symbol "G2" indicates the virtual elasticity curve when the finger of the first doctor D1 is removed from the skin SK. In this way, the depth detection unit DD detects the pressure F when the finger is pressed into the skin SK, and the elasticity value is generated.n (in other words, the change in the resistance value at each sensor pixel PX) causes the above-mentioned indentation (indentation) depth δ zn and the elasticity value (see FIG. 11). In parallel with this, the depth detection unit DD obtains the radius R of the attachment ring 12 corresponding to the length 2a of the contact portion of the indenter ID with the skin SK (i.e., the length 2a of the area on the sensor unit 1 of the sensor pixel PX where pressure is detected as the contact portion). i Based on these, the depth detection unit DD calculates the elastic force E from the patient P in accordance with the shape of the indenter ID based on the following formula (1). * and the indentation depth δ to which the indenter ID (sensor part 1) is pressed by palpation. zn Then, the depth detection unit DD simultaneously calculates the calculated press-in depth δ zn and outputs the depth data 53 indicating the depth to the image processing unit GP.

number

[0060] Next, the viscosity detection unit VD of the processing device R detects the viscosity when the finger of the first doctor D1 is pressed into the skin SK of the affected area of ​​the patient P during the palpation and then removed from the skin SK based on the pressure data 50 and the depth data 53, generates viscosity data 54 indicating the detected viscosity, and outputs it to the image processing unit GP. In this case, the viscosity detection unit VD detects the pressure F obtained when the finger of the first doctor D1 is removed from the skin SK of the affected area of ​​the patient P during the palpation process. n and the indentation depth δ zn From the continuous values ​​of zn A graph showing the relationship between the indentation depth δ and the elasticity value is generated. At this time, the higher the viscosity is, or the shorter the time it takes to remove the finger from the skin SK is, the lower the indentation depth δ is. zn The slope of the elasticity graph (see FIG. 11) becomes gentler. Note that the viscosity detector VD detects the time when the finger is released, for example, as the pressing depth δ zn The indentation depth δ at this time is detected based on the change with time. zn The time change of is the sampled injection depth δzn and the sampling time (indicated as "Time" in FIG. 11). Based on the gradient of the graph shown in FIG. 11, the viscosity detection unit VD detects the viscosity, generates viscosity data 54 indicating the detected viscosity, and outputs it to the image processing unit GP. The image processing unit GP then displays the viscosity on, for example, the display DP based on the viscosity data 54.

[0061] As described above, according to the remote pressure detection system SS of the embodiment, the row electrodes E1 and column electrodes E2 formed in the first electrode layer 4 and the column electrodes E3 formed in the second electrode layer 6, which are laminated on the back surface of the film-like pressure-sensitive layer 2, whose resistance value changes when the front surface is pressed, are scanned and driven for each sensor pixel PX, so that the pressure during palpation due to the change in resistance value in the multiple sensor pixels PX is detected for each sensor pixel PX. Therefore, by laminating the row electrodes E1, etc. only on the back surface of the film-like pressure-sensitive layer 2, it is possible to simplify the manufacturing process of the pressure sensor SC and reduce manufacturing costs, and it is possible to improve the detection sensitivity of pressure by directly pressing the pressure-sensitive layer 2 from the front surface side (patient P side) of the sensor pixel PX, and further, it is possible to detect pressure as a surface by the sensor pixels PX arranged in a planar shape.

[0062] In addition, since a plurality of sensor pixels PX are regularly arranged in an array in the sensor unit 1, and row electrodes E1 etc. provided in each of the plurality of sensor pixels PX are driven by a sequential driving method (see diagonal hatching in Figures 7 to 9), changes in resistance value in each sensor pixel PX can be accurately detected as a surface.

[0063] Furthermore, each sensor pixel PX has a row electrode E1 that is shaped to surround the column electrode E2, and the row electrodes E1, column electrodes E2, and column electrodes E3 provided in each of the sensor pixels PX other than the sensor pixel PX to be driven are mutually at the same potential (VDD) (see Figures 7 to 9), so that it is possible to prevent the formation of a so-called current path to one or more sensor pixels PX that are not the target for detecting pressure during palpation, thereby improving the pressure detection sensitivity.

[0064] Furthermore, the sensor unit 1 has a shape that allows it to be attached to the tip of the finger of the first doctor D1 and is attached to the finger by the indenter ID (see Figure 2), so that the pressure applied when the first doctor D1 and the second doctor D2 palpate the patient P can be accurately detected.

[0065] Furthermore, the indenter ID equipped with the sensor unit 1 has a shape that allows it to be worn like a ring on the tip of the finger of the first doctor D1 (see Figure 2), so that the pressure can be accurately detected while preventing it from falling off the fingertip during palpation.

[0066] Furthermore, the depth of pressure during palpation is further detected based on the width (i.e., length 2a) of the area on the sensor unit 1 including the position of the sensor pixel PX where the change in resistance value in the pressure-sensitive layer 2 is detected (see Figure 10(b)), so that detection of pressure based on the change in resistance value in the pressure-sensitive layer 2 and detection of the depth of pressure can be performed simultaneously.

[0067] (II) Variations Next, modified embodiments, which are other embodiments for carrying out the present invention, will be described with reference to Figures 12 to 16. In the remote pressure detection system of each modified embodiment described below, the same members as those in the remote pressure detection system SS of the above-mentioned embodiment are designated by the same member numbers and detailed description will be omitted.

[0068] (A) First Variation First, the first modified embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a plan view showing the structure of a sensor pixel in the first modified embodiment.

[0069] In the above embodiment of the remote pressure detection system SS, the row electrode E1 and the column electrode E2 provided in the first electrode layer 4 of each sensor pixel PX are each annular (see FIG. 4). However, as shown in FIG. 12(a), each sensor pixel PX may be configured such that the row electrodes E11 and the column electrodes E21 each having a comb shape are alternately arranged. In this case, the row electrode E11 is shared within the sensor pixels PX constituting one row, and the row electrodes E11 for three rows are switched and scanned by the row scanning unit 21A (see FIG. 6) to be driven. In addition, the column electrode E21 in the first electrode layer 4 and the row electrode E31 in the second electrode layer 6 shown in FIG. 12(b) are connected through the via V with the insulating layer 5 sandwiched therebetween. Furthermore, the row electrode E31 corresponding to one column is shared within the sensor pixels PX constituting the row, and the column electrodes E21 (column electrodes E31) for 14 columns are switched and scanned by the column scanning unit 24 (see FIG. 6) to be driven. Even if the row electrodes E11 and the column electrodes E21 are comb-shaped, the size of the entire sensor unit in the first modified embodiment can be the same as the size of the entire sensor unit 1 in the embodiment. The remote pressure detection system in the first modified embodiment described above can achieve the same effects as the remote pressure detection system SS in the embodiment.

[0070] (B) Second Variation Next, a second modified embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a plan view showing the structure of a sensor pixel in the second modified embodiment.

[0071] In the above-described embodiment of the remote pressure detection system SS, the case where the sensor unit 1 as a whole has three row electrodes E1 (one row electrode E1 for each sensor pixel PX corresponding to one row) has been described (see FIG. 4 and FIG. 6). However, other than this, the sensor unit as a whole may be configured to have six row electrodes (two row electrodes, row electrode E1A and row electrode E1B, for each sensor pixel PX corresponding to one row). In this case, as shown in FIG. 13(a), in one sensor pixel PX, the parallel row electrodes E1A and E1B must surround the column electrode E2 in the first electrode layer 4 and be insulated from each other. Note that, as shown in FIG. 13(a), the opening 3A in the second modified embodiment is a range including only one row electrode E1A (or one row electrode E1B) and the column electrode E2 for one sensor pixel PX. Furthermore, the configuration of the column electrodes E2 and E3 in the second modified embodiment may be the same as that of the remote pressure detection system SS of the embodiment. In the pressure sensor of the second modified embodiment, the row electrodes E1A and E1B are scanned and driven separately in a time-division manner, and each row is scanned and driven in a time-division manner similar to the pressure sensor SC of the embodiment. That is, the row scanning unit of the second modified embodiment scans and drives the six row electrodes E1A and E1B for each row electrode and for each row in a time-division manner. In this case, like the pressure sensor SC of the embodiment, the row electrode E1A (or row electrode E1B) has a function as a readout line, and the column electrode E2 (column electrode E3) has a function of both a power supply line and an address line. According to the remote pressure detection system of the second modified embodiment described above, the resolution for pressure detection can be doubled (in other words, the size of the part for pressure detection (i.e., the size of the opening 3A) is half) compared to the remote pressure detection system SS of the embodiment.

[0072] (C) Third Variation Next, a third modified embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is a plan view showing the structure of a sensor pixel in the third modified embodiment.

[0073] In the above-mentioned second modified remote pressure detection system, the row electrodes E1A and E1B and the column electrodes E2 provided in the first electrode layer 4 of each sensor pixel PX are each circular (see FIG. 13). However, as shown in FIG. 14(a), the row electrodes E1C and E1D and the column electrodes E21 each having a comb shape may be arranged alternately. In this case, the row electrodes E1C and E1D are each shared within a sensor pixel PX constituting one row, and the row electrodes E1C and E1D for six rows are switched and scanned and driven by the row scanning unit (see FIG. 6). The column electrodes E21 in the first electrode layer 4 and the row electrodes E31 in the second electrode layer 6 shown in FIG. 14(b) are connected through the via V with the insulating layer 5 in between. Furthermore, the row electrode E31 corresponding to one column is shared among the sensor pixels PX constituting that row, and the column electrodes E21 (column electrodes E31) for 14 columns are switched and scanned and driven by the column scanning section 24 (see FIG. 6). Even if the row electrodes E1C and E1D and the column electrodes E21 are comb-shaped, the size of the entire sensor section in the third modified form can be made similar to that of the entire sensor section in the second modified form. The remote pressure detection system of the third modified form described above can achieve the same effects as the remote pressure detection system of the second modified form.

[0074] (D) Fourth Variation Next, a fourth modified embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 15 and Fig. 16. Fig. 15 is an external perspective view showing the structure of an indenter in the fourth modified embodiment, and Fig. 16 is a diagram showing the improvement in accuracy of pressure detection due to the indenter structure.

[0075] In the remote pressure detection system SS of the above-mentioned embodiment and the remote pressure detection system of each modified form, the indenter ID used therein has the appearance shown in FIG. 2. However, other than this, as shown in FIG. 15, an indenter ID2 having a perspective appearance (perspective appearance seen from diagonally below) may be used, in which, for example, a rod-shaped protrusion PP is erected toward the patient P at each position on the surface of the pressure-sensitive membrane 2 corresponding to each sensor pixel PX constituting the sensor unit 1. The indenter ID2 of this fourth modified form is provided with the same number of protrusions PP as the number of sensor pixels PX of the sensor unit 1 (42 pieces). When the indenter ID2 of this fourth modified form is used, the pressure applied to each sensor pixel PX (pressure as a repulsive force from the skin SK of the affected part of the patient P) is concentrated at the sensor pixel PX at the base of the protrusion PP, as compared with the case where the protrusion PP is not present, and as a result, the pressure sensitivity of the sensor unit 1 is improved. More specifically, as in the case illustrated in FIG. 16(a) (when a sponge is pressed with a finger having an indenter ID2 attached thereto) and the case illustrated in FIG. 16(b) (when a cosmetic puff is pressed with a finger having an indenter ID2 attached thereto), if there is no protrusion PP, the target object is too soft and there is almost no sensitivity to pressure. However, if an indenter ID2 having a protrusion PP on the surface of the sensor unit 1 is used, the pressure required by the sensor unit 1 can be reliably detected (i.e., the sensitivity of the sensor unit 1 is improved) even if the target object is a soft sponge or cosmetic puff. When the indenter ID2 of the fourth modified embodiment described above is used, the surface of the pressure-sensitive film 2 in each sensor pixel PX is further provided with a protrusion PP, so that the sensitivity of pressure detection can be improved. In addition, if the protrusion PP is a rod-shaped protrusion erected on the surface of the pressure-sensitive layer 2 as illustrated in FIG. 15, the sensitivity of pressure detection can be further improved.

[0076] (E) Fifth Variation Next, a fifth modified embodiment will be described.

[0077] In the remote pressure detection system SS of the embodiment and the remote pressure detection system of each modified embodiment described above, each sensor pixel PX is sequentially driven in a time-division manner for each row or column that constitutes it (see Figs. 7 to 9). However, other than this, each electrode of the row or column may be driven in so-called parallel to scan and drive each sensor pixel PX in each of the following modes. (A) A power controller 21 may be provided for each row of the sensor unit 1, and all the rows may be driven in parallel. In this case, each row electrode may have a function as a readout line and each column electrode may have a function as both a power line and an address line, or each row electrode may have a function as both a power line and an address line and each column electrode may have a function as a readout line. (A) Instead of providing the column scanning unit 24 as in the embodiment or each modified embodiment, a driving unit for driving each column of the sensor unit 1 may be provided, and all columns may be driven in parallel. In this case, each row electrode may have a function as a readout line and each column electrode may have a function both as a power supply line and an address line, or each row electrode may have a function both as a power supply line and an address line and each column electrode may have a function as a readout line. (C) The parallel driving in (A) and the parallel driving in (B) above may be combined. In the case of the fifth modified embodiment described above, the circuit scale of the drive circuit 20 increases, but the detection speed of the pressure sensor SC improves by the amount of parallel driving. Also, since the row electrodes E1 and the like provided in each of the multiple sensor pixels PX are driven by the parallel driving method, the change in resistance value in each sensor pixel PX can be accurately detected as a surface. (F) Other Variations Finally, as another modified embodiment, in the remote pressure detection system SS of the above-mentioned embodiment and each modified embodiment of the remote pressure detection system, the pressure data 50 and image data 51 as a result of palpating the patient P are remotely transmitted. However, the present invention can be widely applied to other cases where the pressure detection target is something other than a person (patient P), such as an animal or some other object, and pressure applied from them is detected. [Industrial Applicability]

[0078] As described above, the present invention can be used in the field of pressure sensors, and particularly when applied to a case where it is necessary to detect the pressure applied from an object as a surface, a particularly remarkable effect can be obtained. [Explanation of symbols]

[0079] 1 Sensor section 2 Pressure-sensitive layer 3 protective layer 3A opening 4 First electrode layer 5. Insulation layer 6 Second electrode layer 10 Base material 11 Fixed ring 12 Mounting ring 20 Drive circuit 21, 22 Power Controller 21A Row scanning section 21B, 21C, 21D FETs 21E Differential Amplifier 21F, 21G fixed resistance 23 Processing section 24 Column Scanning Section 50 Pressure Data 51 Image data 52 Synthetic Data 53 Depth Data 54 Viscosity Data P patient T Transmitter R Processing Unit V-Via Area A C Camera E1, E1A, E1B, E1C, E1D, E11 row electrodes E2, E3, E21 column electrodes SK skin PP protrusions NW Network SC Pressure Sensor SS Remote Pressure Detection System D1 First Doctor D2 2nd Doctor MX synthesis section TM Transmitter RV Receiver SP separation part TR tactile reproduction section DD Depth detection unit VD Viscosity detector GP Image Processing Unit DP Display ID, ID2 indenter PX11, PX12, PX13, PX14, PX15, PX16, PX17, PX18, PX19, PX110, PX111, PX112, PX113, PX114, PX21, PX22, PX23, PX24, PX25, PX26, PX27, PX28, PX29, PX210, PX211, PX212, PX213, PX214, PX31, PX32, PX33, PX34, PX35, PX36, PX37, PX38, PX39, PX310, PX311, PX312, PX313, PX314 sensor pixels

Claims

1. a plurality of pressure detection units arranged in a plane, each pressure detection unit including a film-like resistor whose resistance value changes when pressed from the front surface, and a driving wire laminated only on the back surface of the resistor; a detection means for driving the drive lines for each of the pressure detection units, the detection means detecting a pressure of the pressure detection units for each of the pressure detection units based on a change in the resistance value due to the pressure applied to the pressure detection units; A pressure sensor comprising:

2. 2. The pressure sensor according to claim 1, The pressure sensor further comprises a protrusion on the surface of the resistor in each of the pressure detection portions.

3. 3. The pressure sensor according to claim 2, 4. A pressure sensor comprising: a first protrusion and a second protrusion disposed on the first surface;

4. The pressure sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, A plurality of the pressure detection units are regularly arranged in an array, One of the pressure detection units includes a plurality of the drive lines, The pressure sensor is characterized in that the detection means drives the drive lines provided in the plurality of pressure detection sections respectively by either a sequential drive method or a multiple parallel drive method.

5. The pressure sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 4, One of the pressure detection portions includes a first drive line and a second drive line, which are the drive lines intersecting at a position of the pressure detection portion on the back surface, The detection means includes: (i) a driving method for driving the first driving line and the second driving line constituting one of the pressure detection units independently of each other; Or, (ii) a driving method for driving two of the second driving lines constituting one of the pressure detection units independently of each other; 4. A pressure sensor comprising: a driving circuit for driving each of said driving lines;

6. The pressure sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 5, each of the pressure detection units includes a shielding means for electrically insulating the pressure detection unit from the other pressure detection units; A pressure sensor characterized in that the detection means drives the pressure detection unit that is the driving target while keeping the shielding means provided in each of the pressure detection units other than the pressure detection unit that is the driving target at the same potential.

7. The pressure sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The pressure detection unit is disposed in a shape that can be worn on the tip of a human finger, The pressure sensor further comprises mounting means for mounting the pressure sensor on the target.

8. 8. The pressure sensor according to claim 7, A pressure sensor characterized in that the pressure detection portion has a shape that allows it to be worn on the tip like a finger ring.

9. The pressure sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The pressure sensor according to claim 1, wherein the detection means further detects the depth of the pressure based on the size of an area on the pressure sensor that includes the position of the pressure detection portion where the pressure is detected.

10. A pressure sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 9; a transmitting means for transmitting detection data indicating a result of the pressure detection; a receiving means for receiving the transmitted detection data; an output means for outputting the detection result indicated by the received detection data; 1. A remote pressure sensing system comprising:

Images