Systems with sensor-equipped tiles and methods for using sensor-equipped tiles

Abstract

A system (101) including a sensor-equipped tile (100), the sensor-equipped tile (100) including a ceramic body (1) including a top surface (11) and a back surface (12) opposite the top surface (11), a control unit (21) arranged on the back surface (12) and programmed to generate a communication signal (210), a communication unit (22) connected to the control unit (21) and receiving the communication signal (210), and a sensor unit (23) configured to capture at least one sensor signal (230) representative of a value of a physical parameter captured at a boundary region of the tile (100), the control unit (21) being connected to the sensor unit (23) to receive the at least one sensor signal (230) and configured to generate the communication signal (210) in response to the sensor signal (230).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a system tile comprising a tile with a sensor and a method for using the tile with a sensor.

[0002] Traditionally, ceramic tiles are used on floors, walls, and other surfaces, such as in bathrooms and kitchens, etc. The purpose of these tiles is to provide finishing and decoration to the surface to which they are applied. [Background technology]

[0003] Italian patent 102017000042869 describes a tile equipped with an inductive charging system, but this tile is not suitable for any other function than charging.

[0004] Patent document 2 (EP 2425068) describes a flooring system with an accumulation device and related manufacturing and use methods. Patent document 3 (JP 58-20411 A) describes a method for manufacturing tiles. Patent document 4 (EP 3910430 A) relates to a method for assigning the position of a lining element relative to a spatial reference system. However, none of these documents fully meets the needs of the market. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide tiles and methods for overcoming the above-mentioned drawbacks of the prior art. Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a method for manufacturing tiles that overcomes the drawbacks of the prior art.

[0006] In particular, the present disclosure aims to provide a tile that is capable of processing signals and communicating with the outside world. Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a tile that is capable of monitoring the surrounding environment.

[0007] It is a further object of the present disclosure to provide a system including a tile and a method of using a tile, the tile being a sensored tile.

[0008] These objects are fully achieved in accordance with the present disclosure and as set forth in the appended claims by the tiles, by methods of communicating with the tiles, by systems and methods of using the sensor-equipped tiles, and by methods of manufacturing the tiles. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The tile includes a body, preferably a ceramic body. The ceramic body includes a top surface and a back surface opposite the top surface. For example, the top surface is a visible surface, and the back surface defines a laying surface and is configured to be secured to a support surface when the tile is installed. In one example, the tile is a sensor-equipped tile.

[0010] The tile includes a control unit which may be located externally of the ceramic body, preferably within the ceramic body, and more preferably on the back surface of the ceramic body.

[0011] The control unit is programmed to generate a signal. By way of example, the signal is a communication signal. The tile comprises a communication portion. The communication unit may be connected to the control unit to receive the communication signal. The communication unit may be located outside the ceramic body, preferably within the ceramic body, and more preferably on a back surface of the ceramic body. The communication unit may be configured to transmit the signal. By way of example, the communication unit is configured to transmit the communication signal to a remote terminal.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the tile includes a sensor unit. The sensor unit is configured to capture at least one sensor signal. The sensor signal preferably represents a value of a physical parameter, for example, a value detected in a boundary area of ​​the tile. To this end, the sensor unit or the control unit may be programmed to derive the value of the physical parameter from the sensor signal. The control unit may be connected to the sensor unit to receive the at least one sensor signal, and, as an example, the control unit derives the value of the corresponding physical parameter from the sensor signal.

[0013] The sensor unit may be located on the outside of the ceramic body, or preferably at least partially within the ceramic body, or more preferably on the back surface of the ceramic body.

[0014] In one embodiment, the sensor unit includes one or more sensors selected from a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a tilt sensor, a pressure sensor, a vibration sensor, and a deformation sensor. The temperature sensor is configured to capture a temperature signal. The temperature signal represents a temperature value at the boundary region of the tile, for example, the top or back surface of the tile. The humidity sensor is configured to capture a humidity signal representing a humidity value at the boundary region of the tile, for example, the top or back surface of the tile. The tilt sensor is configured to capture a tilt signal representing a tilt value of the ceramic body (i.e., the top or back surface of the ceramic body) relative to a plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity. The pressure sensor is configured to capture a pressure signal representing a pressure value applied to the top surface of the ceramic body. The vibration sensor is configured to capture a vibration signal representing a vibration value experienced by the ceramic body. The deformation sensor is configured to capture a deformation signal representing a deformation value of the ceramic body.

[0015] The purpose of the sensor unit is to monitor the boundary area of ​​the tile. In one example, the sensor unit comprises a vibration sensor, a pressure sensor, and a deformation sensor to detect the state of the structure on which the tile is installed, for example a ventilated facade. In one example, the sensor unit comprises a pressure sensor to detect the passage of people or objects on the floor on which the tile is installed, for example a floating floor. In one example, the sensor unit comprises a vibration sensor to detect seismic events.

[0016] The sensor of the sensor unit may be configured to capture a sensor signal based on a threshold being exceeded or, alternatively or additionally, based on an event (e.g., pressure applied to the ceramic body or a vibration event). This allows the sensor unit to respond to large and temporary external stresses. The sensor of the sensor unit may be a low-power sensor, so that the sensor unit is always ready to capture a sensor signal. For this purpose, the tile may include a power supply system for providing power to the sensor unit. In one example, the control unit and the communication unit are powered by a battery system. The sensor of the sensor unit may be a MEMS sensor, i.e., a miniaturized sensor (e.g., micro- or nano-sized). MEMS sensors have the advantage of being able to accurately detect physical parameters.

[0017] In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to generate a communication signal based on at least one sensor signal. The communication signal may thus represent a value of a physical parameter detected in the boundary area of ​​the tile. To this end, the sensor signal may include at least one of a temperature signal, a humidity signal, a tilt signal, a pressure signal, a vibration signal, and a deformation signal. The communication signal may include at least one of a temperature value, a humidity value, a tilt value, a pressure value, a vibration value, and a deformation value.

[0018] In one embodiment, the communication unit comprises a transmitting device configured to transmit a communication signal, for example a radio signal, to a remote terminal.

[0019] As an example, the tile includes a recess. The recess may be a cavity or depression in the ceramic body. The recess may be provided on the top surface or, preferably, the back surface of the ceramic body. The recess has a periphery. The periphery of the recess may be circular, rectangular, or any other shape. That is, the periphery forms a circular, rectangular, or other shape around an axis perpendicular to the surface, i.e., the top or back surface of the ceramic body. Preferably, the periphery of the recess has rounded corners. The rounded corners serve to minimize stress concentrations at the corners, thereby making the ceramic body, including the recess, more robust. The control unit may be at least partially disposed within the recess. In other words, the recess may be configured to at least partially house the control unit. The communication system may be at least partially disposed within the recess. The recess may be configured to at least partially house the communication unit. The sensor unit may be at least partially disposed within the recess. For example, the sensor unit may include a first sensor disposed within the recess and a second sensor disposed on the top surface of the ceramic body or external to the ceramic body.

[0020] In one example, the tile is configured to be installed on a floor, and the control unit and / or communication unit and / or sensor unit may be located within the floor material in a recess in the tile.

[0021] As an example, the tile includes an electronic card. For example, the control unit, the communication system, and the sensor unit may be disposed on the electronic card. The card is preferably disposed in the recess. The shape and size of the recess (particularly the periphery of the recess) may be such that the electronic card (i.e., the control unit and the communication unit) can be accommodated. For example, the control unit, the communication unit, the sensor unit, or the electronic card is removably inserted into the recess.

[0022] In one example, the tile includes a power supply system, preferably disposed on the electronic card. In one example, the power supply system includes a plurality of batteries. The plurality of batteries may be primary or secondary (i.e., rechargeable) batteries. Preferably, the plurality of batteries are thin lithium batteries, such as lithium button cells. The electronic card may include a lid configured to cover the battery system, such as a magnetic lid. A magnetic lid has the advantage of being easy to open for battery replacement of the battery system, particularly when the batteries are primary batteries. Preferably, the lid of the electronic card and the battery system is disposed in a recess, flush with the rear surface of the ceramic body.

[0023] In one embodiment, the ceramic body is axisymmetric, defining at least one axis of symmetry. Preferably, the periphery of the recess is spaced apart from the axis of symmetry in a plane parallel to the top surface. Thus, the recess is positioned in the ceramic body away from the center of the ceramic body and at a location where bending moments are low.

[0024] In one embodiment, the ceramic body has a periphery, and the distance between the periphery of the recess and the periphery of the ceramic body is greater than 4 cm, preferably 5 cm, and the recess is therefore located in the ceramic body at a position sufficiently far from the center of the ceramic body to protect the control unit, the communication system, and, if present, the sensor unit as much as possible in the event of bending of the ceramic body.

[0025] In one example, the recess has a bottom surface. The ceramic body may have a first portion having a first thickness and included between the top surface and the back surface. The ceramic body may have a second portion having a second thickness included between the top surface and the bottom surface of the recess. The first thickness and the second thickness are defined parallel to an axis perpendicular to a surface (e.g., the top surface or the back surface of the ceramic body). In one example, the second thickness is 3 mm to 8 mm, preferably 5 mm. For example, the first thickness is 8 mm to 20 mm.

[0026] In one embodiment, the control unit, the communication unit, or the sensor unit may be fixed to the recess mechanically (e.g., using a leaf spring clip) or, more preferably, using a resin or other adhesive material. Preferably, the control unit, the communication unit, and the sensor unit are disposed on an electronic card, and the electronic card is fixed to the recess by the resin. As an example, a power supply system is disposed on the electronic card, and the electronic card is fixed to the recess by the resin, the resin being in contact with the control unit, the communication system, and the sensor unit, and the power supply system is covered with a lid. Preferably, the resin is poured onto the electronic card (preferably excluding the power supply system) in the recess so as to be flush with the back surface of the ceramic body.

[0027] In one embodiment, the ceramic body is comprised of a mixture containing a reinforcing agent. In one embodiment, the reinforcing agent concentration is 0.1% to 4% of the mixture. The reinforcing agent concentration is preferably 0.2% to 0.5%, more preferably 0.3% to 0.45%, with a concentration of about 0.4% providing the most advantageous results. The function of the reinforcing agent is to make the ceramic body more resistant to bending, more resilient, and at the same time, easier to process when forming tiles.

[0028] The present disclosure also provides a system including tiles, preferably made according to one or more aspects described in this disclosure.

[0029] As one example, the system includes a remote terminal. The remote terminal may be connected to a control unit of the tile. For example, the remote terminal may be configured to receive and process communication signals. The remote terminal may derive information regarding a boundary region of the tile based on the communication signals. As another example, the control unit processes the communication signals and derives information regarding a boundary zone of the tile based on the communication signals.

[0030] In one embodiment, the system includes one or more actuators. The remote terminal may be configured to transmit drive signals to the one or more actuators, for example, preferably based on communication signals received from the control unit. As another example, the control unit is configured to transmit drive signals to the one or more actuators, preferably based on sensor signals received from the sensor unit.

[0031] The present disclosure also provides a method for exchanging signals with a tile. The tile preferably includes a ceramic body including a top surface and a back surface opposite the top surface, a control unit disposed on the back surface, and a communication unit connected to the control unit. As an example, the method includes generating a communication signal via the control unit. The method may include transmitting the communication signal to a remote terminal via the communication unit.

[0032] In one example, the tile comprises a sensor unit connected to the control unit, and the method includes capturing sensor signals via the sensor unit. The sensor signals may represent, for example, values ​​of physical parameters detected in a boundary area of ​​the tile. The method may include receiving at least one sensor signal in the control unit. Preferably, the step of generating a communication signal is performed based on the received sensor signals.

[0033] In one example, the communication unit comprises a transmitting device and the method comprises transmitting, via the control unit, a communication signal representative of the value of the physical parameter detected in the boundary zone of the tile.

[0034] As an example, the method includes transmitting drive signals to one or more actuators via a remote terminal based on a communication signal received from the control unit.

[0035] As an example, the method includes transmitting drive signals to one or more actuators via the control unit based on communication signals received from the sensor unit.

[0036] The present disclosure also provides a method for manufacturing a tile. The tile preferably includes a ceramic body, the ceramic body including a top surface and a back surface opposite the top surface. Preferably, the tile includes a recess. The recess may define a cavity or depression within the ceramic body. For example, the recess may be provided on the back surface or the top surface of the ceramic body. The method may include a step of supplying a ceramic mixture to the cavity of a first element. The method may also include a step of compressing the ceramic mixture by moving the first element and a second element toward each other to form the ceramic body of the tile. As an example, during the compression step, a recess is formed in the ceramic body, preferably formed by the first element or the second element. The first element and the second element each have a contact surface. For example, the first element or the second element may include a protrusion extending toward an axis perpendicular to the contact surface to form the recess in the ceramic body. In particular, the first element may include a contact surface that contacts the back surface of the tile during the compression step, and the first element may include a protrusion extending toward an axis perpendicular to the contact surface to form the recess. The recess is provided on a back or top surface of the ceramic body. In another example, the first element includes a contact surface that contacts the back surface of the tile during the compression step, and the method includes removing a portion of the tile to form a recess on the back surface of the ceramic body.

[0037] As an example, the method comprises providing a control unit. The method may include providing a communication portion connected to the control unit. The method includes assembling the control unit to the ceramic body. The method includes assembling a communication system to the ceramic body. Preferably, the control unit and / or the communication system are at least partially disposed within the recess.

[0038] The method may comprise applying tiles to a floor. In one example, the method comprises installing the control unit and / or communication unit and / or sensor unit in a recess in a floor tile.

[0039] The present disclosure also provides a system including a sensor-equipped tile. The sensor-equipped tile includes a top surface and a back surface opposite the top surface, and preferably includes a ceramic body. The sensor-equipped tile may include a control unit, for example, disposed on the back surface and programmed to generate a communication signal. The sensor-equipped tile may include a communication unit connected to the control unit to receive the communication signal. The communication unit may be disposed on the back surface. The sensor-equipped tile may include a sensor unit configured to capture at least one sensor signal representing a value of a physical parameter detected in a boundary region of the tile. The sensor unit may be disposed on the back surface. In one example, the control unit is connected to the sensor unit to receive the at least one sensor signal and is configured to generate a communication signal in response to the sensor signal.

[0040] By way of example, the sensor unit may include one or more of the following sensors:

[0041] a temperature sensor configured to capture a temperature signal representative of a temperature value at a boundary region of the tile; a humidity sensor configured to capture a humidity signal representative of a humidity value in a boundary area of ​​the tile; a tilt sensor configured to capture a tilt signal representative of a value of tilt of the ceramic body relative to a plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity; a pressure sensor configured to capture a pressure signal representative of a value of a pressure acting on an upper surface of the ceramic body; a vibration sensor configured to capture a vibration signal representative of the value of vibrations acting on the ceramic body; - a deformation sensor configured to capture a deformation signal representative of a deformation value of the ceramic body.

[0042] As an example, the control unit is programmed to derive values ​​from corresponding signals processed by the sensor units.

[0043] As an example, the system may include one or more actuators from the systems listed below.

[0044] - an alarm system that issues an alarm signal; an acoustic system emitting an acoustic signal (e.g. a stereo system); - Lighting system that can be switched on or off, -Camera system configured to be switched on or off.

[0045] The actuator or actuators may be integrated into the sensor tile or may be externally located and connected to the sensor tile, for example, a camera system may be integrated into the exterior surface of the body of the sensor tile.

[0046] In one example, the sensor unit includes a pressure sensor and the control unit is programmed to derive a pressure value. The control unit can be programmed to compare the pressure value to a predetermined pressure value and generate a drive signal if the pressure value satisfies a valid condition. In some examples, the valid condition can be a pressure value greater than the predetermined pressure value, or a preset time period for which the pressure value has been applied, or a preset number of times for which the pressure value has been applied.

[0047] In one example, the system includes an alarm system and a control unit, the control unit configured to send a drive signal to the alarm system to instruct the alarm system to emit an alarm signal, which may be acoustic, visual, luminous, or vibratory.

[0048] In one example, the system includes a sound system and a control unit configured to send a drive signal to instruct the sound system to emit a sound signal, The sound system may be a stereo system connectable to the control unit of the tile.

[0049] As an example, the system includes a lighting system, and the control unit is configured to send drive signals to the lighting system to instruct the lighting system to switch on or off.

[0050] As an example, the system includes a camera system, and the control unit is configured to send a drive signal to the camera system instructing it to switch on or off.

[0051] In one embodiment, the tile includes a wireless charging system configured to transmit electrical energy in a wireless mode to an external power source for charging, and for this purpose the external power source may be configured to receive electrical energy in a wireless mode.

[0052] As an example, the system includes a remote terminal. Preferably, the remote terminal is connected to a control unit of the tile to receive, for example, a communication signal from the communication unit. The remote terminal (or control unit) can be programmed to derive information about the boundary zone of the tile based on the communication signal. For example, the information obtained by the remote terminal or control unit includes at least one parameter. The parameter can represent the condition of the tile, the environmental conditions, or the condition of the building (or surface) on which the tile is installed. For example, the sensor unit includes a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor for detecting temperature and humidity signals. The processed information may include temperature and humidity values, and the control unit (or remote terminal) may be programmed to display the information on a screen. The control unit or remote terminal may be configured to display the information on a screen. The screen may be integrated into the remote terminal or the tile.

[0053] As an example, the communication signal represents a change in pressure value acting on the ceramic body of the tile over time. The remote terminal (or control unit) may be programmed to derive statistical information regarding the pressure value applied to the ceramic body. For example, the remote terminal (or control unit) may be programmed to calculate the number of people walking on the tile. The remote terminal (or control unit) may be programmed to calculate the time a person stood on the tile for each person or for a pre-set time interval. The remote terminal (or control unit) may be programmed to process the number of people who walked on the tile and the time they stood on it, and may thereby provide statistical information to a user.

[0054] The present disclosure also provides a method of using the tile, which is preferably a sensored tile.

[0055] The method may include generating, via the control unit, a communication signal and transmitting the communication signal, for example, to a communication unit. The method may include capturing, via the sensor unit, at least one sensor signal representative of a value of a physical parameter detected in a boundary area of ​​the tile and transmitting the sensor signal, for example, to a control unit. The method may include receiving, via the control unit, the at least one sensor signal and generating a communication signal in response to the sensor signal.

[0056] In one embodiment, the sensor unit includes a pressure sensor, and the method includes deriving a pressure value, for example via a control unit or a remote terminal. The method may include comparing the pressure value to a predetermined pressure value via the control unit or the remote terminal. The method may include generating a drive signal via the control unit or the remote terminal if the pressure value satisfies a valid condition compared to the predetermined pressure value. For example, the method may include generating a drive signal via the control unit or the remote terminal for a pressure value higher than the predetermined pressure value.

[0057] In one example, the method includes transmitting a drive signal via the control unit to at least one of:

[0058] - an alarm system that issues an alarm signal; - an acoustic system for instructing the user to emit an acoustic signal; - a lighting system that commands lights to be turned on or off; -Camera system that commands the camera to turn on or off.

[0059] In one embodiment, the tile includes a wireless charging system, and the method includes transmitting electrical energy in a wireless mode to an external power source to charge.

[0060] As an example, the method may include transmitting a communication signal via the control unit to a remote terminal. The communication signal may represent a change in pressure value acting on a ceramic body of the tile over time. The method may include deriving, via the remote terminal, a number of people walking on the tile and / or a time each person is standing on the tile. [Effects of the Invention]

[0061] A tile and method are provided to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0062] These and other features will become more apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments, which are illustrated by way of non-limiting example in the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a tile 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 illustrates a tile 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows a cross section of a tile 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 illustrates an electronic card 2 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 illustrates an electronic card 2 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6a] FIG. 6a illustrates a system 101 according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. [Figure 6b] FIG. 6b illustrates a system 101 according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 illustrates a mold 7 according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0063] The numeral "100" in the drawings indicates a tile. The tile 100 includes a ceramic body 1. The ceramic body 1 has a top surface 11 that forms the visible surface of the tile 100 and a back surface 12 that forms the laying surface of the tile 100, and is configured to be secured to a support surface when the tile is installed. The top surface 11 and the back surface 12 of the ceramic body 1 are spaced apart from each other along an axis N that is perpendicular to the top surface 11 and the back surface 12 of the ceramic body 1. The ceramic body 1 has a periphery 13. Preferably, the periphery 13 of the ceramic body 1 forms a rectangular or square shape around the normal axis N.

[0064] The tile 100 includes a recess 5 formed in the rear surface 12 of the ceramic body 1. The recess 5 includes a periphery 51. The periphery 51 of the recess 5 forms a rectangular shape about an axis parallel to the normal axis N.

[0065] The ceramic body 1 is axisymmetric, defining at least one axis of symmetry S. In particular, the periphery 51 of the recess 5 is spaced apart from the axis of symmetry S in a plane parallel to the top surface 11 (and the back surface 12). In particular, the distance 14 between the periphery 13 of the ceramic body 1 and the periphery 51 of the recess 5 is in the range of 4 mm to 6 mm, preferably greater than 5 mm. The periphery 51 is provided with rounded corners 52.

[0066] The recess 5 includes a bottom surface 53, and the ceramic body 1 includes a first portion 15a having a first thickness 16a between the top surface 11 and the back surface 12. The ceramic body 1 includes a second portion 15b having a second thickness 16b between the top surface 11 and the bottom surface 53 of the recess 5. The second thickness 16b is between 3 mm and 8 mm, and the first thickness 16a is between 8 mm and 20 mm.

[0067] The ceramic body 1 is made from a mixture 6 containing a hardener at a concentration of 0.28% to 0.32%. The ceramic body 1 is molded in a mold 7. In the operational sequence for manufacturing the ceramic body 1, the mixture 6 is supplied to a cavity 710 of a first element 71 of the mold 7. Next, the second element 72 and the first element 71 of the mold 7 approach each other along a normal axis N to compress the mixture 6b and form the ceramic body 1 of the tile 100. The first element 71 has a contact surface 711 that contacts the rear surface 12 of the ceramic body 1 when the mixture 6 is compressed to form the ceramic body 1. Furthermore, during compression, the first element 71 of the mold 7 has a protrusion 712 extending along an axis parallel to the normal axis N that is perpendicular to the contact surface 711, thereby forming a recess 5 in the rear surface 12 of the ceramic body 1.

[0068] The tile 100 includes an electronic card 2. The electronic card 2 is disposed in a recess 5. In particular, a periphery 51 of the recess 5 is configured to accommodate the electronic card 2. Preferably, the electronic card 2 has a periphery, and the periphery 51 of the recess 5 coincides with the periphery of the electronic card 2. The tile 100 includes a control unit 21, preferably a microcontroller, mounted on the electronic card 2. The tile 100 includes a communication unit 22 mounted on the electronic card 2. The communication unit 22 includes a transmitting device 221 (e.g., a transceiver). The tile 100 includes a sensor unit 23 configured to capture at least one sensor signal 230 representing a value of a physical parameter detected in a boundary area of ​​the tile. The sensor unit 23 is disposed on the electronic card 2. The tile 100 comprises a memory 24 disposed on the electronic card 2.

[0069] In particular, the control unit 21 is connected to a sensor unit 23 , a communication unit 22 and a memory 24 .

[0070] The tile 1 further includes a power supply system 25 disposed within the electronic card 2. The power supply system 25 is composed of a plurality of batteries 251 disposed in a plurality of battery holders 252, respectively. The batteries 251 are preferably primary lithium button batteries. The plurality of batteries 251 are disposed in a battery compartment 253 of the electronic card 2. The battery compartment 253 can be covered with a removable magnetic lid 254 that can be coupled to a magnetic frame 255 of the electronic card 2. The electronic card 2 includes a battery management system 256 that manages charging of the batteries 251 and a voltage regulator 257 that adjusts the input voltage of the batteries 251 or the output voltage of the batteries 251.

[0071] The sensor unit 23 is composed of one or more sensors. Thus, the tile 100 is a sensor-equipped tile. The sensors of the sensor unit 23 are low-power MEMS sensors. Furthermore, the sensors are configured to capture signals that indicate when a predetermined threshold is exceeded or an event occurs. Thus, the sensors are always active and connected to the power supply system 25, receiving a constant electrical charge.

[0072] The control unit 21, the communication unit 22, the sensor unit 23, and the memory 24 are fixed in the recess 5 by the resin material. In particular, the electronic card 2 is fixed in the recess by the resin material and is in contact with the control unit 21, the communication unit 22, the sensor unit 23, and the memory 24. In particular, with the power supply system 25 covered by the removable lid 254, the resin is poured in until it is flush with the rear surface 12 of the ceramic body 1.

[0073] The control unit 21 receives the sensor signals 230 from the sensor units 23 and derives therefrom corresponding values ​​representing physical parameters of the boundary area of ​​the tile 100. In one example, the tile 100 is disposed in a system 101 that includes a remote terminal 3 disposed outside the tile 100. The control unit 21 is connected to the remote terminal 3. The control unit 21 processes a communication signal 210 that includes the sensor signals 230 and transmits the communication signal 210 to the remote terminal 3 via the communication unit 22. The remote terminal 3 receives the communication signal 210 and processes the communication signal 210 to derive information 310 regarding the boundary area of ​​the tile 100. Alternatively, the control unit 21 processes the communication signal 210 to derive information regarding the boundary area of ​​the tile 100. In one example, the remote terminal 3 includes a screen 31 that displays the derived information 310.

[0074] The sensor unit 23 comprises a vibration sensor 237 configured to capture vibration signals representative of the value of the vibrations experienced by the ceramic body 1. In particular, the remote terminal 3 is configured to process the communication signal comprising the vibration signal by applying a Fourier transform algorithm to the vibration signal.

[0075] The sensor unit 23 includes a temperature sensor 231, a humidity sensor 232, and an acceleration sensor 233. The sensor unit 23 includes an inclination sensor 235 for capturing an inclination signal representing the value of the inclination of the ceramic body 1 with respect to a plane perpendicular to the direction of the gravitational force, and a deformation sensor for capturing a deformation signal representing the value of the deformation of the ceramic body 1.

[0076] The sensor unit 23 comprises a pressure sensor 234 for capturing a pressure signal representative of the value of the pressure acting on the upper surface of the ceramic body 1. The sensor monitors the condition and use of the structure in which the tile 100 is installed, such as a ventilated facade or a floating floor.

[0077] The system 101 includes a plurality of actuators 4 and a remote terminal 3 that processes a drive signal based on the communication signal or information derived therefrom. Specifically, the control unit 21 compares a pressure value derived from the pressure signal with a predetermined pressure value, and the control unit 21 or the remote terminal 3 generates a drive signal 311 when the measured pressure value exceeds a threshold, when a predetermined length of pressure application time is exceeded, or in response to the number of pressure values ​​measured within a certain time interval. For example, if the tile 100 is placed on a floor, and a person whose weight exceeds a predetermined value walks across the floor, the remote terminal 3 processes the drive signal 311 and transmits it to an alarm system 41 of the actuator group 4, which then issues an audible alarm, for example, to notify the presence of the person. For example, if the tile 100 is installed on the floor or wall of a house, and a user touches the top surface of the tile, the remote terminal 3 processes the drive signal 311 and transmits it to an audio system 42 that issues an audible signal, a lighting system 43 that turns on or off a light, or a camera system 44 that turns on or off a camera. The tiles 100 are placed in pedestrian walkway areas (e.g., stations or shops), and as people walk on them, the remote terminal 3 derives their stopping time or number of passes and processes statistical information about the use of the walkway area.

[0078] The following paragraphs, arranged alphabetically for reference, are non-limiting exemplary forms illustrating the present invention.

[0079] A. Tile (100) containing the following components:

[0080] a ceramic body (1) including a top surface (11) and a back surface (12) opposite the top surface (11); a control unit (21) arranged on the rear surface (12) and programmed to generate a communication signal (210); a communication unit (22) connected to the control unit (21) for receiving communication signals (210);

[0081] The communication unit (22) is configured to transmit a communication signal (210) to the remote terminal (3).

[0082] A.1. A tile (100) as described in paragraph A, comprising: a sensor unit (23) configured to capture at least one sensor signal (230) representative of a value of a physical parameter detected in a boundary region of the tile (100), wherein the control unit (21) is connected to the sensor unit (23) to receive the at least one sensor signal (230).

[0083] A.1.1. The tile (100) of paragraph A.1, comprising the following components: A tile (100) of paragraph A, wherein the sensor unit (23) comprises one or more of the following sensors:

[0084] a temperature sensor (231) for capturing a temperature signal representative of the temperature value in the boundary area of ​​the tile (100); a humidity sensor (232) for capturing a humidity signal representative of the humidity value in the boundary area of ​​the tile (100); a tilt sensor (235) configured to capture a tilt signal, the tilt signal representing the value of the tilt of the ceramic body (100) relative to a plane perpendicular to the direction of the gravitational force; a pressure sensor (234) for capturing a pressure signal representative of the value of the pressure acting on the upper surface of the ceramic body (100); capturing a vibration signal representative of the value of the vibrations experienced by the ceramic body (1); a deformation sensor (236) for capturing a deformation signal representative of the deformation value of the ceramic body (1);

[0085] A.1.2. A tile (100) as described in paragraph A.1. or A.1.1., wherein the control unit (21) is configured to generate a communication signal (210) based on at least one sensor signal (230), and the communication unit (22) includes a transmitting device (221) configured to transmit the communication signal (210) representing the value of a physical parameter detected in the boundary area of ​​the tile (100).

[0086] A.2. A tile (100) according to any of the preceding paragraphs, comprising a recess (5) formed in the rear surface (12) of the ceramic body (1) and having a periphery (51), wherein the control unit (21) and the communication unit (22) are at least partially disposed within the recess (5).

[0087] A.2.1. A tile (100) according to paragraph A.2., wherein the ceramic body (1) is axisymmetric and defines at least one axis of symmetry (S), and the periphery (51) of the recess (5) is spaced apart from the axis of symmetry (S) in a plane parallel to the top surface (11).

[0088] A.2.2. A tile (100) according to paragraph A.2. or A.2.1., wherein the ceramic bodies (1) have respective peripheries (13), and the distance (14) between the periphery (51) of the recess (5) and the periphery (13) of the ceramic body (1) is greater than 4 cm.

[0089] A.2.3. A tile (100) according to any of paragraphs A.2. to A.2.2., wherein the periphery (51) of the recess (5) includes rounded corners (52).

[0090] A.2.4. A tile (100) according to any one of paragraphs A.2. to A.2.3., wherein the recess (5) has a bottom surface (53), and the ceramic body (1) has a first portion (15a) having a first thickness (16a) between the top surface (11) and the back surface (12), and a second portion (15b) having a second thickness (16b) between the top surface (11) and the bottom surface (53) of the recess (5), the second thickness being between 3 mm and 8 mm.

[0091] A.2.5. A tile (100) according to any one of paragraphs A.2. to A.2.4., wherein the control unit (21) and the communication unit (22) are fixed in the recess (5) by a resin material.

[0092] A.3. A tile (100) according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the ceramic body (1) is formed from a mixture (6) including a reinforcing agent having a concentration of 0.35% to 0.45%.

[0093] B. A system (101) comprising:

[0094] - Tiles (100) as described in any of paragraphs A. to A.3., a remote terminal (3) connected to the control unit (21) of the tile (100) and having the following functions: a function for receiving (210) a communication signal (210); a function for processing (210) a communication signal (210); A function for deriving information (310) about a boundary region of a tile (100) based on the communication signal (210).

[0095] B.1. includes one or more actuators (4); the remote terminal (3) is configured to send drive signals (311) to one or more actuators (4) based on the communication signals (210) received from the control unit (21); or The control unit (21) is configured to send a drive signal (311) to one or more actuators (4) based on the sensor signal (230) received from the sensor unit (23). The system (101) described in paragraph B.

[0096] C. A method for exchanging signals with a tile (100), comprising: Tile (100) a ceramic body (1) including a top surface (11) and a back surface (12) opposite the top surface (11); a control unit (21) disposed on the back surface (12); a communication unit (22) connected to the control unit (21); Equipped with The method is: - generating a communication signal (210) via a control unit (21); - transmitting a communication signal (210) to a remote terminal (3) via a communication unit (22); A method comprising:

[0097] C.1. The method of paragraph C, comprising: The tile (100) comprises a sensor unit (23) connected to a control unit (21); The method is: - capturing, via a sensor unit (23), a sensor signal (230) representative of the value of a physical parameter detected in the boundary area of ​​the tile (100); - receiving at least one sensor signal (230) in a control unit (21); Equipped with The step of generating a communication signal (210) is performed based on the received sensor signal (230).

[0098] D. A method for manufacturing a tile (100), comprising: The tile (100) comprises a ceramic body (1) including an upper surface (11), a rear surface (12) opposite the upper surface (11), and a recess (5) formed in the rear surface (12); The method is: - filling the cavity (710) of the first element (71) with a ceramic mixture (6); - forming the ceramic body (1) of the tile (100) by bringing the first element (71) and the second element (72) close together to compress the ceramic mixture (6); Equipped with The first element (71) has a contact surface (711) that contacts the back surface (12) of the tile (100) during the compression process, and the first element (71) has a protrusion (712) extending in an axis (N) direction perpendicular to the contact surface, thereby forming a recess (5) on the back surface (12) of the ceramic body (1).

[0099] D.1. The method of paragraph D, - providing a control unit (21) and a communication unit (22) connected to the control unit (21); - assembling a control unit (21) and a communication unit (22) to the ceramic body (1), the control unit (21) and the communication unit (22) being at least partially located in the recess (5); A method for providing [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0100] [Patent Document 1] Italian Patent No. 102017000042869 [Patent Document 2] European Patent No. 2425068 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. S58-20411 [Patent Document 4] European Patent Application Publication No. 3910430

Claims

1. A system (101) comprising a sensor-equipped tile (100), wherein the sensor-equipped tile (100) is A ceramic body (1) having an upper surface (11) and a back surface (12) opposite to the upper surface (11), A control unit (21) is located on the back surface (12) and is programmed to generate a communication signal (210), A communication unit (22) connected to the control unit (21) and receiving the communication signal (210), A sensor unit (23) is configured to capture at least one sensor signal (230) representing the value of a physical parameter detected in the boundary region of the sensor-equipped tile (100), Includes, The control unit (21) is connected to the sensor unit (23) to receive at least one sensor signal (230) and is configured to generate the communication signal (210) in response to the sensor signal (230). System (101).

2. The aforementioned sensor unit (23) A temperature sensor (231) is configured to capture a temperature signal representing the temperature value in the boundary region of the tile (100), A humidity sensor (232) is configured to capture a humidity signal representing the humidity value in the boundary region of the tile (100), The tilt sensor is configured to capture a tilt signal that represents the value of the tilt of the ceramic body (1) with respect to a plane perpendicular to the direction of the gravitational force, A pressure sensor (234) is configured to capture a pressure signal representing the value of the pressure acting on the upper surface of the ceramic body (1), A vibration sensor (233) is configured to capture a vibration signal representing the value of vibration received by the ceramic body (1), A deformation sensor (236) is configured to capture a deformation signal representing the deformation value of the ceramic body (1), Includes one or more of the following sensors: The system (101) according to claim 1.

3. An alarm system (41) that emits an alarm signal, An acoustic system (42) that outputs an acoustic signal, A lighting system (43) that switches on or off, A camera system (44) that can be switched on or off, The system according to claim 1, comprising an actuator (4) from one or more of the systems.

4. The sensor unit (23) includes a pressure sensor (234), The control unit (21) is The process of deriving the pressure value, A process of comparing the aforementioned pressure value with a predetermined pressure value, A process to generate a drive signal (311) when the pressure value is greater than a predetermined pressure value, The system (101) according to claim 3, which is programmed to perform the following:

5. The alarm system (41) is provided, The system (101) according to claim 4, wherein the control unit (21) is configured to transmit the drive signal (311) to the alarm system (41) and instruct it to issue the alarm signal.

6. The sound system (42) is provided, The system according to claim 4, wherein the control unit (21) is configured to transmit a drive signal (311) to the acoustic system (42) and instruct it to emit an acoustic signal.

7. The system comprises the aforementioned lighting system (43) and the aforementioned camera system (44), The system (101) according to claim 4, wherein the control unit (21) is configured to transmit the drive signal (21) to the lighting system (43) and the camera system (44) to instruct them to turn on or off.

8. The system (101) according to claim 1, wherein the tile (100) includes a wireless charging system configured to charge by wirelessly transmitting electrical energy to an external power source.

9. The tile (100) is connected to the control unit (21) and includes a remote terminal (3) that receives a communication signal (230) from the communication unit (23). The communication signal (230) represents the pressure value acting on the ceramic body (1) of the tile (100) over time. The system (101) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the remote terminal (3) is programmed to derive the number of people walking on the tile (100) and / or the time each person stands on the tile (100).

10. A method for using a sensor-equipped tile (100), The aforementioned sensor-equipped tile (100) is A ceramic body (1) including an upper surface (11) and a back surface (12) opposite to the upper surface (11), The control unit (21) located on the back surface (12), A communication unit (22) connected to the control unit (21), A sensor unit (23) connected to the control unit (21), Equipped with, The aforementioned method of use is The steps include generating a communication signal (210) via a control unit (21) and transmitting the communication signal (210) to a communication unit (22), The steps include: acquiring at least one sensor signal (230) representing the value of a physical parameter detected in the boundary region of the sensor-equipped tile (100) via the sensor unit (23), and transmitting the sensor signal (230) to the control unit (21); The steps include receiving at least one sensor signal (230) via the control unit (21) and generating a communication signal (210) in accordance with the sensor signal (230), Equipped with, Instructions for using the sensor-equipped tile (100).

11. The aforementioned sensor unit (23) A temperature sensor (231) is configured to capture a temperature signal representing the temperature value in the boundary region of the tile (100), A humidity sensor (232) is configured to capture a humidity signal representing the humidity value in the boundary region of the tile (100), The tilt sensor is configured to capture a tilt signal that represents the value of the tilt of the ceramic body (1) with respect to a plane perpendicular to the direction of the gravitational force, A pressure sensor (234) is configured to capture a pressure signal representing the value of the pressure acting on the upper surface of the ceramic body (1), A vibration sensor (233) is configured to capture a vibration signal representing the value of vibration received by the ceramic body (1), A method of use according to claim 10, comprising one or more of the following: a deformation sensor (236) configured to capture a deformation signal representing the deformation value of the ceramic body (1); and a system (101) according to claim 1, comprising one or more of the following sensors.

12. The sensor unit (23) includes the pressure sensor (234), The above-mentioned method of use is performed by the control unit (21). The steps include: deriving the pressure value, The steps include comparing the aforementioned pressure value with a predetermined pressure value, The steps include generating a drive signal (311) for a pressure value greater than a predetermined pressure value, The method of use according to claim 11, including the method of use described in claim 11.

13. Via the control unit (21), An alarm system (41) that gives instructions to emit an alarm signal, An acoustic system (42) that instructs to emit an acoustic signal, A lighting system (43) that instructs to switch on or off, A camera system (44) that instructs the camera to switch on or off, The method of use according to claim 12, further comprising the step of transmitting the drive signal (311) to at least one of the systems.

14. The tile (100) is equipped with a wireless charging system, The method of use according to claim 10, further comprising the step of charging by transmitting electrical energy to an external power source in wireless mode.

15. The steps include transmitting a communication signal (210) to a remote terminal (3) via the control unit (21) the pressure value applied to the ceramic body (1) of the tile (100) over time, and The steps include: via the remote terminal (3), deriving the number of people walking on the tile (100) and / or the time each person stands on the tile (100); A method of use according to any one of claims 10 to 14, comprising:

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