Pressure Sensors and Sensor Systems

Abstract

To provide a pressure sensor and a sensor system, each of which enables state of electric power supplied to a detection circuit to be easily detected.SOLUTION: A pressure sensor 10 includes: a membrane 22 which deforms according to pressure; a plurality of sensor resistive elements R 1-R 4 which are formed on the membrane 22 and constitute a detection circuit 30; and a detection resistive element Rs which is formed on the membrane 22 and detects state of electric power supplied to the detection circuit 30. One end of the detection resistive element Rs is electrically connected to the detection circuit 30, and the other end of the detection resistive element Rs is electrically connected to a fifth electrode portion 45 formed on the membrane 22.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a pressure sensor that detects strain caused by deformation of a membrane through a change in resistance, and to a sensor system having a plurality of such pressure sensors. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, various technologies have been proposed for pressure sensors that utilize the piezoresistive effect. This type of pressure sensor is equipped with, for example, a metallic pressure-receiving member called a stem, and a membrane that deforms in response to an external force (pressure) is formed on a part of the stem. A plurality of resistors whose electrical resistance changes in response to the deformation are provided on the membrane, and a detection circuit (bridge circuit) is formed by these resistors. When the electrical resistance of each resistor changes, an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of change is output from the detection circuit, and by detecting the output, it is possible to measure the change in the electrical resistance of each resistor and calculate the pressure applied to the membrane based on the measured value.

[0003] Incidentally, a power supply for supplying power is connected to the detection circuit, and the power supplied from the power supply is controlled by, for example, a switch. If the switch or the like breaks, or if the wire bonding connecting the switch or the like to the detection circuit is broken, it becomes difficult to supply normal power to the detection circuit, which causes a problem in normal operation of the pressure sensor. For this reason, it is preferable to provide the pressure sensor with a means for detecting the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit.

[0004] In recent years, in order to enable more accurate measurement, a technology has been proposed in which a sensor system is constructed using multiple pressure sensors, and the pressure applied to the membrane is calculated based on the output from each pressure sensor (see Patent Document 1). In such a sensor system, in order to drive each pressure sensor, for example, it is assumed that the detection circuits of each of the multiple pressure sensors are connected to a common power source, and a switch is connected to each detection circuit, and the power supplied from the common power source to each detection circuit is controlled by each switch. In this case, there is a risk that the above-mentioned switch or the like may break in the wire bonding in each pressure sensor, and therefore it is preferable that the sensor system is provided with a means for detecting the state of the power supplied to each detection circuit. However, such a means is not easy to implement, as it is likely that the circuit configuration and control will become complicated. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2009-543093 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has an object to provide a pressure sensor and a sensor system that are capable of easily detecting the state of power supplied to a detection circuit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the pressure sensor according to the present invention comprises: A membrane that deforms in response to pressure; A plurality of sensor resistors formed on the membrane and constituting a detection circuit; The detection resistor is formed on the membrane, one end of the detection resistor being electrically connected to the detection circuit and the other end of the detection resistor being electrically connected to an electrode portion formed on the membrane.

[0008] The pressure sensor according to the present invention includes a detection resistor having one end electrically connected to the detection circuit and the other end electrically connected to an electrode portion formed on the membrane, and therefore by detecting the current flowing through the detection resistor via the electrode portion, the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit can be easily detected based on the detected value.

[0009] In addition, in the pressure sensor according to the present invention, since the detection resistor is formed on the membrane, the device configuration can be prevented from becoming complicated compared to the case where the detection resistor is formed at a position different from the membrane. As a technique for forming the detection resistor on the membrane, for example, a technique similar to the technique for forming the multiple sensor resistors constituting the detection circuit on the membrane can be used. In this case, not only can the detection resistor be formed with the same degree of accuracy as the sensor resistor, but the shape or formation position of the detection resistor can be set relatively freely. Therefore, with a simple configuration, the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit can be detected with high accuracy based on the detection value of the detection resistor.

[0010] Preferably, one end of the detection resistor is electrically connected to a conductive path between the detection circuit and a power source that supplies power to the detection circuit. With this configuration, when an abnormality occurs in the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit, it can be easily identified whether the abnormality is caused by an abnormality in the power supply line from the power source to the detection circuit.

[0011] Preferably, the detection resistor is made up of a plurality of detection resistors, the electrode portion is made up of a plurality of detection resistors, and each of the plurality of detection resistors is electrically connected to the other end of each of the plurality of detection resistors. With this configuration, it is possible to detect the current flowing through each detection resistor through each electrode portion electrically connected to the other end of each detection resistor. Therefore, even if it becomes impossible to detect the current flowing through a detection resistor electrically connected to one of the electrode portions due to the influence of a disconnection or the like, it is possible to continue to detect the current flowing through a detection resistor electrically connected to another electrode portion, and the availability of the means for detecting the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit can be increased. In addition, it is possible to distribute the current through the plurality of detection resistors, and the durability of each detection resistor can be improved.

[0012] In order to achieve the above object, the sensor system according to the present invention comprises: A sensor system having a plurality of the pressure sensors described above, the detection circuit provided in each of the plurality of pressure sensors is electrically connected to a common power source; The electrode portions electrically connected to the other ends of the detection resistors provided in the plurality of pressure sensors are electrically connected to each other.

[0013] In the sensor system according to the present invention, the detection circuits provided in each of the multiple pressure sensors are electrically connected to a common power source, and each of the multiple pressure sensors is supplied with power from the common power source. Also, the electrodes electrically connected to the other ends of the detection resistors provided in each of the multiple pressure sensors are electrically connected to each other, and the sum of the currents flowing through each detection resistor is output via this connection point. Therefore, if an abnormality occurs in the state of the power supplied to any of the detection circuits, the sum of the currents flowing through each detection resistor output from this connection point will fluctuate, and the state of the power supplied to each detection circuit can be easily detected based on the range of this fluctuation.

[0014] Preferably, the detection resistors provided in each of the pressure sensors are made up of a plurality of detection resistors having different resistance values. In this configuration, when an abnormality occurs in the state of the power supplied to any of the detection circuits, the fluctuation range of the sum of the currents flowing through the detection resistors output from the above-mentioned connection point becomes a unique value corresponding to the resistance value of the detection resistors connected to the detection circuit. Therefore, based on this unique value, it is possible to easily identify which detection circuit has an abnormality in the state of the power supplied to that detection circuit.

[0015] Preferably, the resistance value of the detection resistor provided in each of the multiple pressure sensors is set in stages so that the resistance values ​​differ at a substantially constant rate. When a sensor system is provided with n (n is a natural number) detection circuits, various combinations of detection circuits that cause an abnormality in the state of the power supplied are assumed. By using the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible to prevent the sum of the current flowing through each detection resistor output from the above-mentioned connection point from taking on duplicate values ​​in each combination, and it is possible to identify with high accuracy which detection circuit has an abnormality in the state of the power supplied to it.

[0016] Each of the plurality of pressure sensors may be provided with a plurality of the detection resistors having different resistance values, and the electrode portions electrically connected to the other end of any one of the detection resistors provided in each of the plurality of pressure sensors may be electrically connected to each other among the plurality of pressure sensors. In this manner, by providing each pressure sensor with a plurality of detection resistors in advance, a detection resistor having a desired resistance value can be appropriately selected from the plurality of detection resistors according to the usage situation.

[0017] Preferably, a diode is electrically connected to the other end of the detection resistor provided in each of the plurality of pressure sensors, and the electrode parts electrically connected to the other ends of the detection resistors provided in each of the plurality of pressure sensors via the diode are electrically connected to each other. With this configuration, when an abnormality occurs in the state of the power supplied to any one of the detection circuits, it is possible to prevent a current from flowing into that detection circuit from the other detection circuits. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a pressure sensor according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view showing a detection circuit and a power state detection unit formed on the membrane shown in FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is an equivalent circuit diagram of the detection circuit and the power state detection unit shown in FIG. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a circuit diagram showing the configuration of a sensor system in which a plurality of pressure sensors, each having the detection circuit and the power state detection unit shown in FIG. 3, are connected together. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a circuit diagram showing a state in which an abnormality occurs in a switch that controls power supplied to any one detection circuit in the sensor system shown in FIG. 4A, causing the switch to be unintentionally turned OFF. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4C is a circuit diagram showing a state in which an abnormality occurs in each switch that controls the power supplied to any two detection circuits in the sensor system shown in FIG. 4A, causing each switch to be unintentionally turned OFF. [Figure 4D] FIG. 4D is a circuit diagram showing a state in which an abnormality occurs in a wire bonding that connects a switch that controls the power supplied to any one of the detection circuits in the circuit shown in FIG. 4A to the detection circuit. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a circuit diagram showing a modification of the power state detection unit shown in FIG. 4A. [Figure 6]FIG. 6 is a graph showing the value of Is in each pattern shown in Table 1. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram showing the configuration of a sensor system in which a plurality of pressure sensors according to the second embodiment of the present invention are connected together. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view showing a detection circuit and a power state detection unit of a pressure sensor according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an equivalent circuit diagram of the detection circuit and the power state detection unit shown in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram showing the configuration of a sensor system in which a plurality of pressure sensors according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention are connected together. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0019] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described based on the embodiments shown in the drawings.

[0020] First embodiment As shown in Fig. 1, the pressure sensor 10 has a membrane 22 that deforms in response to pressure. In the example shown in Fig. 1, the upper base of the stem 20 is the membrane 22. In addition to the stem 20 having the membrane 22, the pressure sensor 10 also has a connection member 12 in which a flow path 12b that transmits pressure to the stem 20 is formed, a pressing member 14 that fixes the stem 20 to the connection member 12, a substrate portion 81 that is wired to electrode portions 41 to 45 (see Fig. 2) on the membrane 22, and the like.

[0021] A screw groove 12a for fixing the pressure sensor 10 to the measurement object is formed on the outer periphery of the connection member 12. By fixing the pressure sensor 10 to the measurement object via the screw groove 12a, it is possible to airtightly connect a flow path 12b formed inside the connection member 12 to the pressure chamber that is the measurement object.

[0022] The stem 20 has a cylindrical outer shape with a bottom (upper bottom) and is provided at one end of the flow path 12b in the connection member 12. The stem 20 is fabricated by machining a metal or alloy such as stainless steel. The material of the stem 20 is not particularly limited as long as it generates appropriate elastic deformation. A flange portion 21 is provided on the opening side of the stem 20, and the stem 20 is fixed to the connection member 12 by sandwiching the flange portion 21 between the pressing member 14 and the connection member 12. The opening of the stem 20 and the flow path 12b of the connection member 12 are airtightly connected using the pressing member 14, and the pressure of the measurement target is transmitted to the membrane 22 of the stem 20.

[0023] The membrane 22, which is the upper base of the stem 20, is thinner than other parts of the stem 20, such as the side wall 20a (see FIG. 2), and is deformed according to the pressure transmitted from the flow path 12b. The membrane 22 has an inner surface 22a that contacts the pressurized fluid and an outer surface 22b opposite to the inner surface 22a. The outer surface 22b of the membrane 22 is provided with a detection circuit 30, which will be described later, and electrode units 41 to 45 (see FIG. 2).

[0024] A substrate portion 81 is fixed to the pressing member 14. The substrate portion 81 has wiring, electrode portions, etc. that are electrically connected to the detection circuit 30 and the electrode portions 41 to 45, etc., formed on the outer surface 22b of the membrane 22. The electrode portions of the substrate portion 81 and the electrode portions 41 to 45 on the membrane 22 are electrically connected via connection wiring 82, etc., formed by wire bonding or the like. The substrate portion 81 has a ring-shaped outer shape, and the stem 20 is inserted through a through hole formed in the center of the substrate portion 81.

[0025] In FIG. 2, the diagram shown at the top is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stem 20, and the diagram shown at the bottom is a schematic plan view of the stem 20 viewed from above, which is the outer surface 22b side of the membrane 22. As shown in FIG. 2, the membrane 22 is formed with a first strain region 24 that generates strain characteristics in a predetermined direction and a second strain region 26 that generates strain characteristics in the opposite direction to the first strain region 24. The first strain region 24 of the membrane 22 receives pressure (positive pressure) from the inner surface 22a and generates a negative strain -ε (compressive strain), whereas the second strain region 26 of the membrane 22 receives pressure (positive pressure) from the inner surface 22a and generates a positive strain +ε (tensile strain). In this way, it is preferable that the strain characteristics at the first strain position 24 and the strain characteristics at the second strain position 26 are in different directions (different signs cancel each other out).

[0026] 2, the first strain region 24 and the second strain region 26 are formed on concentric circles around the center O of the membrane 22, and the radius of the circumference showing the first strain region 24 is larger than the radius of the circumference showing the second strain region 26. The second strain region 26 is located at a position a predetermined distance away from the center O of the membrane 22 in the radial direction, and is formed in the center of the membrane 22. The first strain region 24 is formed outside (on the outer periphery side) of the second strain region 26, and is located at a position a predetermined distance away from the second strain region 26 in the radial direction of the membrane 22. The outer edge 23 of the membrane 22 is connected to the side wall 20a of the stem 20.

[0027] A first sensor resistor R1 to a fourth sensor resistor R4 are formed on the upper surface of the membrane 22. The first sensor resistor R1 to the fourth sensor resistor R4 are pressure detection elements, and are configured to generate distortion in response to the deformation of the membrane 22 and change their resistance value due to the piezo-resistance effect in response to the amount of distortion.

[0028] The first sensor resistor R1 to the fourth sensor resistor R4 are fabricated, for example, by patterning a conductive thin film (such as a semiconductor thin film or a metal thin film) made of a predetermined material into, for example, a meandering shape. The conductive thin film is patterned by microfabrication using semiconductor processing techniques such as laser processing and screen printing. The conductive thin film is formed on the membrane 22 by a thin film method such as sputtering or vapor deposition, with an insulating film sandwiched between them. However, when the membrane 22 is made of an insulating material such as alumina and the outer surface 22b of the membrane 22 has insulating properties, the conductive thin film may be formed directly on the outer surface 22b of the membrane 22 without forming an insulating film. An example of the conductive thin film is a strain resistive film containing Cr and Al.

[0029] The first sensor resistor R1 and the third sensor resistor R3 are formed in the first strain region 24, and are arranged to face each other across the center O of the membrane 22. The second sensor resistor R2 and the fourth sensor resistor R4 are formed in the second strain region 26, and are arranged to face each other across the center O of the membrane 22. The direction in which the first sensor resistor R1 and the third sensor resistor R3 face each other is approximately perpendicular to the direction in which the second sensor resistor R2 and the fourth sensor resistor R4 face each other. The arrangement of the first sensor resistor R1 to the fourth sensor resistor R4 is not limited to the arrangement shown in the figure, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0030] The first sensor resistor R1 to the fourth sensor resistor R4 constitute a detection circuit 30. The detection circuit 30 is formed on the upper surface of the membrane 22 so as to straddle the first strain region 24 and the second strain region 26, and has an outer shape formed in a circular ring shape (elliptical ring shape). The detection circuit 30 is a bridge circuit, and constitutes a Wheatstone bridge in this embodiment. However, the configuration of the detection circuit 30 is not limited to the configuration shown in the figure, and the detection circuit 30 may constitute another bridge circuit. The configuration of the detection circuit 30 will be described below.

[0031] In the detection circuit 30, the first sensor resistor R1 and the second sensor resistor R2 are connected via a first connection point 51, the first sensor resistor R1 and the fourth sensor resistor R4 are connected via a second connection point 52, the third sensor resistor R3 and the fourth sensor resistor R4 are connected via a third connection point 53, and the second sensor resistor R2 and the third sensor resistor R3 are connected via a fourth connection point 54. That is, the first sensor resistor R1 to the fourth sensor resistor R4 are electrically and physically connected to one another via the first connection point 51 to the fourth connection point 54.

[0032] The first connection point 51 is electrically connected to the first electrode portion 41, the second connection point 52 is electrically connected to the second electrode portion 42, the third connection point 53 is electrically connected to the third electrode portion 43, and the fourth connection point 54 is electrically connected to the fourth electrode portion 44.

[0033] The first electrode portion 41 to the fourth electrode portion 44 are fabricated, for example, by patterning a conductive thin film (such as a semiconductor thin film or a metal thin film) made of a predetermined material into a predetermined shape using a method similar to that used for the first sensor resistor R1 to the fourth sensor resistor R4. Each of the first electrode portion 41 to the fourth electrode portion 44 is formed on the outer edge portion 23 of the membrane 22, but the positions of the first electrode portion 41 to the fourth electrode portion 44 are not limited to the positions shown in the figure, and may be formed, for example, at any position between the first strained region 24 and the outer edge portion 23.

[0034] The first to fourth connection points 51 to 54 are continuously connected to the first to fourth electrode portions 41 to 44, respectively, by a conductive thin film patterned into the above-mentioned predetermined shape. However, the first to fourth connection points 51 to 54 may be connected to the first to fourth electrode portions 41 to 44, respectively, by wire bonding, for example. The first to fourth electrode portions 41 to 44 will be described in detail below with reference to FIG. 3. In FIG. 3, the first to fourth electrode portions 41 to 44 shown in FIG. 2 are virtually shown for ease of understanding.

[0035] 3, the second electrode section 42 functions as a power supply terminal and is electrically connected to the power supply VDD. That is, the detection circuit 30 is supplied with power (bias voltage) from the power supply VDD via the second electrode section 42. The second electrode section 42 is connected to an electrode section (or wiring) on ​​the substrate section 81 via the connection wiring 82 shown in FIG. 1 or the like. This electrode section (or wiring) on ​​the substrate section 81 is electrically connected to the power supply VDD, thereby establishing electrical continuity between the power supply VDD and the second electrode section 42.

[0036] The fourth electrode portion 44 functions as a ground terminal and is electrically connected to GND. The fourth electrode portion 44 is electrically connected to an electrode portion (or wiring) on ​​the substrate portion 81 via the connection wiring 82 shown in Fig. 1 or the like. The potential difference between the second connection point 52 and the fourth connection point 54 is equal to the power supply voltage.

[0037] The first electrode portion 41 functions as a first output terminal, and the voltage V+ at the first connection point 51 is output as a first detection signal via the first electrode portion 41. The first electrode portion 41 is connected to an electrode portion (or wiring) on ​​the substrate portion 81 via a connection wiring 82 or the like shown in FIG.

[0038] The third electrode portion 43 functions as a second output terminal, and the voltage V- at the third connection point 53 is output as a second detection signal via the third electrode portion 43. The third electrode portion 43 is connected to an electrode portion (or wiring) on ​​the substrate portion 81 via a connection wiring 82 shown in FIG.

[0039] By amplifying the voltage value V+ of the first detection signal output from the first electrode portion 41 and the voltage value V- of the second detection signal output from the third electrode portion 43 using, for example, a differential amplifier having a gain A, it is possible to obtain an output voltage V from the detection circuit 30 and detect the fluid pressure acting on the membrane 22 based on the output voltage V.

[0040] 2, in this embodiment, the detection circuit 30 is provided with a power state detection unit 60. The power state detection unit 60 serves to detect the state of power supplied to the detection circuit 30. In other words, the power state detection unit 60 is capable of detecting whether or not there is an abnormality in the state of power supplied from the power supply VDD to the detection circuit 30 via the second electrode unit 42. The configuration of the power state detection unit 60 will be described below.

[0041] The power state detection unit 60 has a detection resistor Rs. The detection resistor Rs is a resistor for detecting the state of power supplied to the detection circuit 30, and is formed on the membrane 22. The detection resistor Rs branches off and extends from the detection circuit 30 on the membrane 22, and is formed at a position spaced apart from the detection circuit 30.

[0042] The detection resistor Rs is fabricated, for example, by patterning a conductive thin film (such as a semiconductor thin film or a metal thin film) made of a predetermined material into a predetermined shape by the same method as the first sensor resistor R1 to the fourth sensor resistor R4. The material used for the conductive thin film forming the detection resistor Rs may be the same as the material used for the conductive thin film forming the first sensor resistor R1 to the fourth sensor resistor R4. In this case, the detection resistor Rs can be formed with the same degree of accuracy as the first sensor resistor R1 to the fourth sensor resistor R4. Alternatively, the detection resistor Rs may be formed of a material having a higher electrical resistance than the material used for the conductive thin film forming the first sensor resistor R1 to the fourth sensor resistor R4.

[0043] One end of the detection resistor Rs and the detection circuit 30 are continuously connected by the above-mentioned patterned conductive thin film. However, one end of the detection resistor Rs and the detection circuit 30 may be connected by wire bonding or the like.

[0044] In this manner, by forming the detection resistor Rs in a pattern on the membrane 22, the shape or the formation position of the detection resistor Rs can be set relatively freely.

[0045] The detection resistor Rs is preferably formed in an area of ​​the upper surface of the membrane 22 where distortion is small. In this embodiment, the detection resistor Rs is formed in the outer edge 23 of the membrane 22, which is an area of ​​small distortion. Such an arrangement prevents the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs from changing due to the influence of distortion occurring in the membrane 22, and makes it possible to detect the state of power supplied to the detection circuit 30 with high accuracy (detection sensitivity). The detection resistor Rs may extend in the circumferential direction of the membrane 22 so as to follow the outer edge 23 of the membrane 22.

[0046] Since the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs may vary somewhat, the arrangement of the detection resistor Rs is not limited to the illustrated position and may be changed as appropriate. For example, the detection resistor Rs may be formed at any position between the first strained region 24 and the outer edge 23 of the membrane 22. Alternatively, the detection resistor Rs may be formed at any position between the first strained region 24 and the second strained region 26. Alternatively, the detection resistor Rs may be formed in a region inside the second strained region 26. Alternatively, the detection resistor Rs may be formed so as to straddle the second strained region 26 along the radial direction of the membrane 22, or so as to straddle the first strained region 24 along the radial direction of the membrane 22.

[0047] The extension direction of the detection resistor Rs is, for example, approximately aligned with the circumferential direction of the membrane 22 when viewed as a whole (the detection resistor Rs extends in a meandering manner along the circumferential direction of the membrane 22). However, the extension direction of the detection resistor Rs is not limited to this, and the detection resistor Rs may extend radially along the radial direction of the membrane 22, for example.

[0048] From the viewpoint of suppressing current consumption, the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs is preferably at least twice the resistance value of the first sensor resistor R1 to the fourth sensor resistor R4, and more preferably at least 10 times. The resistance value of the detection resistor Rs is preferably larger than the resistance values ​​of the first sensor resistor R1 to the fourth sensor resistor R4.

[0049] One end of the detection resistor Rs is electrically and physically connected to the detection circuit 30 via the second connection point 52. However, as long as one end of the detection resistor Rs is electrically connected to the detection circuit 30, another resistor or another element may be interposed between one end of the detection resistor Rs and the second connection point 52. In addition, as long as one end of the detection resistor Rs is electrically connected to the second connection point 52, it may be connected to a position different from the second connection point 52. For example, one end of the detection resistor Rs may be connected to a position shifted from the second connection point 52 toward the first sensor resistor R1, or may be connected to a position shifted from the second connection point 52 toward the fourth sensor resistor R4.

[0050] One end of the detection resistor Rs is connected to the high potential terminal of each of the second sensor resistor R1 and the second sensor resistor R4. As described above, the second electrode portion 42 and the second connection point 52 are electrically connected to the power supply VDD (see FIG. 3), and therefore one end of the detection resistor Rs is electrically connected to the conductive path between the power supply VDD and the second connection point 52. In this manner, by electrically connecting one end of the detection resistor Rs to the conductive path, when an abnormality occurs in the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit 30, it can be easily determined whether or not the abnormality is caused by an abnormality in the power supply line from the power supply VDD to the detection circuit 30.

[0051] The other end of the detection resistor Rs is electrically and physically connected to a fifth electrode unit 45 formed on the membrane 22. However, as long as the other end of the detection resistor Rs is electrically connected to the fifth electrode unit 45, another resistor or another element may be interposed between the other end of the detection resistor Rs and the fifth electrode unit 45.

[0052] The fifth electrode portion 45 is formed on the membrane 22 in the same manner as the first electrode portion 41 to the fourth electrode portion 44. The fifth electrode portion 45 is formed on the outer edge portion 23 of the membrane 22, like the first electrode portion 41 to the fourth electrode portion 44, but the position of the fifth electrode portion 45 is not limited thereto, and may be formed, for example, at any position between the first strained region 24 and the outer edge portion 23.

[0053] The other end of the detection resistor Rs and the fifth electrode portion 45 are continuously connected by the above-mentioned patterned conductive thin film. However, the other end of the detection resistor Rs and the fifth electrode portion 45 may be connected by, for example, wire bonding or the like.

[0054] The fifth electrode unit 45 is connected to an electrode unit (or wiring) on ​​the substrate unit 81 via the connection wiring 82 shown in FIG. 1 and the like. The electrode unit (or wiring) of the substrate unit 81 is electrically connected to the power supply monitoring circuit 70 shown in FIG. 3. That is, the current flowing through the power status detection unit 60 (detection resistor Rs) is output to the power supply monitoring circuit 70 via the fifth electrode unit 45, the substrate unit 81 and the like. The current flowing through the detection resistor Rs is converted to a voltage value by the power supply monitoring circuit 70, and it is possible to determine the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit 30 based on the converted value. The configuration of the power supply monitoring circuit 70 will be described below.

[0055] As shown in Fig. 3, the power supply monitoring circuit 70 has an output resistor Ro. However, the output resistor Ro may be formed separately from the power supply monitoring circuit 70 and is not necessarily included in the power supply monitoring circuit 70. One end of the output resistor Ro is electrically connected to the other end of the detection resistor Rs, and the other end of the output resistor Ro is grounded. Therefore, the current flowing through the detection resistor Rs flows toward the output resistor Ro. The power supply monitoring circuit 70 measures the voltage value Vs applied to the output resistor Ro at this time, and determines whether the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit 30 is normal or not based on the measured value.

[0056] For example, when power is normally supplied from the power supply VDD to the detection circuit 30, a voltage of a predetermined voltage value (Vdd) is applied to the detection circuit 30. In this case, a current of a predetermined current value (Vdd / Rs) flows through the detection resistor Rs, and the current flows toward the output resistor Ro. As a result, a voltage of a predetermined voltage value Vs (Vs=Vdd·Ro / Rs>0) is applied to the output resistor Ro. When the voltage value Vs of the output resistor Ro satisfies the relationship Vs>0, the power supply monitoring circuit 70 determines that the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit 30 is normal.

[0057] On the other hand, when power is not normally supplied from the power supply VDD to the detection circuit 30, the voltage applied to the detection circuit 30 is substantially zero. In this case, the current flowing through the detection resistor Rs is substantially zero, so the current flowing through the output resistor Ro is also substantially zero, and the voltage value Vs of the voltage applied to the output resistor Ro is substantially zero. When the voltage value Vs of the output resistor Ro satisfies the relationship Vs=0, the power supply monitoring circuit 70 determines that the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit 30 is abnormal. Note that causes of power not being normally supplied to the detection circuit 30 include a failure of the power supply VDD itself and a break in the connection wiring 82 (see FIG. 1) connecting the fifth electrode unit 45 and the electrode unit (or wiring) of the substrate unit 81.

[0058] As described above, the pressure sensor 10 according to this embodiment has a detection resistor Rs for detecting the state of power supplied to the detection circuit 30, with one end of the detection resistor Rs electrically connected to the detection circuit 30 and the other end of the detection resistor Rs electrically connected to the fifth electrode portion 45 formed on the membrane 22. Therefore, by detecting the current flowing through the detection resistor Rs via the fifth electrode portion 45 etc., the state of power supplied to the detection circuit 30 can be easily detected based on the detected value.

[0059] Furthermore, in the pressure sensor 10 of this embodiment, the detection resistor Rs is formed on the membrane 22, so that the device configuration can be avoided from becoming complicated compared to the case where the detection resistor Rs is formed at a position other than the membrane 22.

[0060] The power state detection unit 60 in this embodiment can be applied to a sensor system including a plurality of pressure sensors 10. Hereinafter, with reference to Figs. 4A to 6, a case will be described in which the pressure sensors 10_1 to 10_3 are provided with power state detection units 60_1 to 60_3, respectively, in a sensor system 1 including a plurality of pressure sensors 10_1 to 10_3. Note that, in Fig. 4A etc., the sensor system 1 is provided with three pressure sensors 10_1 to 10_3, but the number of pressure sensors may be two, or may be four or more.

[0061] As shown in Fig. 4A, the pressure sensors 10_1 to 10_3 have detection circuits 30_1 to 30_3 and power state detection units 60_1 to 60_3, respectively. The detection circuits 30_1 to 30_3 have the same configuration and are similar to the detection circuit 30 shown in Fig. 3. Each of the detection circuits 30_1 to 30_3 is connected to a common power supply VDD.

[0062] In the pressure sensor 10_1, the second electrode portion 42_1, which is virtually shown in the figure, is electrically connected to the power supply VDD via a switch S1. In the pressure sensor 10_2, the second electrode portion 42_2 is electrically connected to the power supply VDD via a switch S2. In the pressure sensor 10_3, the second electrode portion 42_3 is electrically connected to the power supply VDD via a switch S3.

[0063] That is, the power supply from the power supply VDD to each of the detection circuits 30_1-30_3 is controlled by each of the switches S1-S3. As shown in the figure, when each of the switches S1-S3 is ON, power is supplied from the power supply VDD to each of the detection circuits 30_1-30_3. Each of the switches S1-S3 and each of the second electrode portions 42_1-42_3 are connected via each of the connection wirings 82_1-82_3 formed by wire bonding or the like.

[0064] The power state detection units 60_1 to 60_3 have detection resistors Rs_1 to Rs_3, respectively. The detection resistors Rs_1 to Rs_3 have different resistance values ​​from each other. For example, the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs_1 is 40 kΩ, the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs_2 is 20 kΩ, and the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs_3 is 10 kΩ. However, the resistance values ​​of the detection resistors Rs_1 to Rs_3 are not limited to these values ​​and may be changed as appropriate.

[0065] The resistance values ​​of the detection resistors Rs_1 to Rs_3 are preferably set in stages so that they are different at a substantially constant rate. In this embodiment, the resistance values ​​of the detection resistors Rs_1 to Rs_3 are, for example, 40 kΩ, 20 kΩ, and 10 kΩ, respectively, and are set based on a geometric progression relationship.

[0066] Fifth electrode units 45_1 to 45_3, which are virtually shown in the figure, are electrically connected to the other ends of the detection resistors Rs_1 to Rs_3, respectively, and the fifth electrode units 45_1 to 45_3 are electrically connected to one another at a fifth connection point 55. A current Is_1 flowing through the power status detection unit 60_1 (detection resistor Rs_1) flows into the fifth connection point 55 via the fifth electrode unit 45_1, a current Is_2 flowing through the power status detection unit 60_2 (detection resistor Rs_2) flows into the fifth electrode unit 45_2, and a current Is_3 flowing through the power status detection unit 60_3 (detection resistor Rs_3) flows into the fifth electrode unit 45_3.

[0067] The sum Is of the currents Is_1 to Is_3 flowing into the fifth connection point 55 flows into the power supply monitoring circuit 70, and based on the current value of this current Is, the power supply monitoring circuit 70 determines whether the state of the power supplied to each of the detection circuits 30_1 to 30_3 is normal or not.

[0068] For example, as shown in Fig. 4B, when the power supply from the power supply VDD to the detection circuit 30_2 is interrupted due to a failure of the switch S2, substantially no current flows through the detection resistor Rs_2, so that the current Is_2 output from the power status detection unit 60_2 is substantially 0. On the other hand, since power is normally supplied from the power supply VDD to the detection circuits 30_1 and 30_2, the current Is_1 (Is_1>0) is output from the power status detection unit 60_1, and the current Is_3 (Is_3>0) is output from the power status detection unit 60_3. Therefore, the current Is' detected by the power supply monitoring circuit 70 is equal to the sum of Is_1 and Is_3 (Is'=Is_1+Is_3).

[0069] In this way, when an abnormality occurs in the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit 30_2, the current output from the fifth connection point 55 to the power supply monitoring circuit 70 fluctuates from Is (Is=Is_1+Is_2+Is_3) shown in FIG. 4A to Is' (Is'=Is_1+Is_3) shown in FIG. 4B. This fluctuation range ΔI (ΔI=Is-Is'=Is_2) is a characteristic value according to the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs_2 (i.e., a value according to VDD / Rs_2). Therefore, the power supply monitoring circuit 70 can easily identify that an abnormality has occurred in the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit 30_2 based on this characteristic value.

[0070] The power supply monitoring circuit 70 stores in advance data on the current values ​​of the currents Is_1 to Is_3 flowing through the power status detection units 60_1 to 60_3, and by comparing these values ​​with the current value of the current Is or Is' that is actually detected and then performing further calculations, it is possible to identify to which of the detection circuits 30_1 to 30_3 an abnormality has occurred in the state of the power supplied to the detection circuits 30_1 to 30_3.

[0071] Next, as shown in Fig. 4C, when the power supply from the power supply VDD to the detection circuits 30_1 and 30_3 is interrupted due to failure of the switches S1 and S3, substantially no current flows through the detection resistors Rs_1 and Rs_3, so that the current Is_1 output from the power status detection unit 60_1 becomes substantially 0, and the current Is_3 output from the power status detection unit 60_3 becomes substantially 0. On the other hand, since the power supply VDD normally supplies power to the detection circuit 30_2, the current Is_2 (Is_2>0) is output from the power status detection unit 60_2. Therefore, the current Is detected by the power supply monitoring circuit 70 becomes equal to Is_2.

[0072] In this way, when an abnormality occurs in the state of the power supplied to the detection circuits 30_1 and 30_3, the current output from the fifth connection point 55 to the power supply monitoring circuit 70 fluctuates from Is (Is=Is_1+Is_2+Is_3) shown in FIG. 4A to Is' (Is'=Is_2) shown in FIG. 4C. This fluctuation range ΔI (ΔI=Is-Is'=Is_1+Is_3) is a characteristic value according to the resistance values ​​of the detection resistors Rs_1 and Rs_3 (i.e., a value according to VDD / Rs_1+VDD / Rs_3). Therefore, the power supply monitoring circuit 70 can easily identify that an abnormality has occurred in the state of the power supplied to the detection circuits 30_1 and 30_3 based on this characteristic value.

[0073] Also, as shown in FIG. 4D, when the connection wiring 82_1 connecting the switch S1 and the second electrode portion 42_1 of the pressure sensor 10_1 is disconnected, the power supply from the power supply VDD to the detection circuit 30_1 is cut off. Therefore, in this case, since substantially no current flows through the detection resistor Rs_1, the current Is_1 output from the power status detection unit 60_1 becomes substantially 0. As a result, the value of the current Is' detected by the power supply monitoring circuit 70 becomes Is_2+Is_3, and the current value detected by the power supply monitoring circuit 70 fluctuates by ΔI (ΔI=Is-Is'=Is_1) from the current value Is shown in FIG. 4A. Therefore, the power supply monitoring circuit 70 can easily identify that an abnormality has occurred in the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit 30_1 based on this fluctuation width (a value corresponding to VDD / Rs_1).

[0074] 4A to 4D, the power supply monitoring circuit 70 identifies which of the detection circuits 30_1 to 30_3 is in an abnormal state based on the current value of the current Is or Is' output from the fifth connection point 55, but as shown in Fig. 5, by connecting an output resistor Ro to the fifth connection point 55, the current flowing through the output resistor Ro may be converted into a voltage, and the above identification may be performed based on the voltage value Vs (Ro·Is). Note that one end of the output resistor Ro is electrically connected to the fifth connection point 55, and the other end of the output resistor Ro is grounded.

[0075] Here, when the sensor system 1 is provided with three detection circuits 30_1 to 30_3 as shown in Fig. 4A, eight patterns are possible as combinations of states (ON / OFF states) of power supplied to the detection circuits 30_1 to 30_3, as shown in Table 1. Table 1 shows the values ​​of the currents Is_1 to Is_3 output from the power state detection units 60_1 to 60_3 and the value of the current Is at the fifth connection point 55 in each pattern when, for example, the voltage of the power supply VDD is 5V, the value of the detection resistor Rs_1 is 40kΩ, the value of the detection resistor Rs_2 is 20kΩ, and the value of the detection resistor Rs_3 is 10kΩ. [Table 1]

[0076] That is, as shown in pattern 1, when all the detection circuits 30_1 to 30_3 are OFF, Is_1=Is_2=Is_3=0mA, so Is(Is_1+Is_2+Is_3)=0mA. As shown in pattern 2, when only the detection circuit 30_1 is ON, Is_1=0.125mA, Is_2=Is_3=0mA, so Is=0.125mA. As shown in pattern 3, when only the detection circuit 30_2 is ON, Is_1=0mA, Is_2=0.25mA, Is_3=0mA, so Is=0.25mA. As shown in pattern 4, when only the detection circuit 30_3 is OFF, Is_1=0.125mA, Is_2=0.25mA, Is_3=0mA, so Is=0.375mA. As shown in pattern 5, when only the detection circuit 30_3 is ON, Is_1=0mA, Is_2=0mA, and Is_3=0.5mA, so Is=0.5mA. As shown in pattern 6, when only the detection circuit 30_2 is OFF, Is_1=0.125mA, Is_2=0mA, and Is_3=0.5mA, so Is=0.625mA. As shown in pattern 7, when only the detection circuit 30_1 is OFF, Is_1=0mA, Is_2=0.25mA, and Is_3=0.5mA, so Is=0.75mA. As shown in pattern 8, when all the detection circuits 30_1 to 30_3 are ON, Is_1=0.125mA, Is_2=0.25mA, and Is_3=0.5mA, so Is=0.875mA.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 6, when the state of the power supplied to the detection circuits 30_1 to 30_3 is changed from pattern 1 to pattern 8, the value of Is changes linearly. In this embodiment, the resistance values ​​of the detection resistors Rs_1 to Rs_3 are set to 40 kΩ, 20 kΩ, and 10 kΩ, respectively, so that they double based on the relationship of a geometric progression. Therefore, the difference in Is between each pattern is 0.125 mA, and it is possible to prevent the value of Is from taking a duplicated value between each pattern. That is, in this embodiment, Is_1 ≠ Is_2 ≠ Is_3, Is_1 + Is_2 ≠ Is_3, Is_1 + Is_3 ≠ Is_2, and Is_2 + Is_3 ≠ Is_1. Therefore, by detecting the value of Is in the power supply monitoring circuit 70, it is possible to identify with high accuracy which detection circuit has an abnormality in the state of the power supplied to it.

[0078] As described above, in this embodiment, it is possible to identify which of the detection circuits 30_1 to 30_3 has an abnormality in the state of the power supplied thereto, simply by detecting the current output from the fifth connection point 55 shown in Fig. 4A, and it is not necessary to detect the power state of each of the detection circuits 30_1 to 30_3 independently (in other words, it is not necessary to detect the power state for each of the detection circuits 30_1 to 30_3). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the configuration of the sensor system 1 from becoming complicated.

[0079] Second embodiment 7, the sensor system 1A having pressure sensors 10A_1 to 10A_3 according to the second embodiment of the present invention has the same configuration as the sensor system 1 in the first embodiment, and exerts the same effects and advantages, except for the following points. In the drawings, components common to the components in the sensor system 1 in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 7, in the sensor system 1A, a diode D1 is interposed between the detection resistor Rs_1 and the fifth connection point 55, a diode D2 is interposed between the detection resistor Rs_2 and the fifth connection point 55, and a diode D3 is interposed between the detection resistor Rs_3 and the fifth connection point 55. The anode of the diode D1 is electrically connected to the detection resistor Rs_1, and the cathode of the diode D1 is electrically connected to the fifth connection point 55. The anode of the diode D2 is electrically connected to the detection resistor Rs_2, and the cathode of the diode D2 is electrically connected to the fifth connection point 55. The anode of the diode D3 is electrically connected to the detection resistor Rs_3, and the cathode of the diode D3 is electrically connected to the fifth connection point 55.

[0081] The diodes D1 to D3 are formed on, for example, a substrate portion 81 shown in Fig. 1. In this case, each of the diodes D1 to D3 may be connected to each of the fifth electrode portions 45_1 to 45_3 connected to the other ends of the detection resistors Rs_1 to Rs_3 via a connection wiring 82 shown in Fig. 1.

[0082] Alternatively, the diodes D1 to D3 may be formed as thin-film diodes on the membrane 22. In this case, the diodes D1 to D3 are fabricated by patterning a conductive thin film (semiconductor thin film) made of a predetermined material into a predetermined shape by a thin-film method such as sputtering or vapor deposition. The other ends of the detection resistors Rs_1 to Rs_3 are connected to the diodes D1 to D3 via the pattern on the membrane 22.

[0083] In this embodiment, the diodes D1 to D3 are electrically connected to the other ends of the detection resistors Rs_1 to Rs_3 provided in the pressure sensors 10A_1 to 10A_3, respectively. The electrode portions 45_1 to 45_3 electrically connected to the other ends of the detection resistors Rs_1 to Rs_3 provided in the pressure sensors 10A_1 to 10A_3, respectively, are electrically connected to each other via the diodes D1 to D3.

[0084] Therefore, when an abnormality occurs in the state of the power supplied to any one of the detection circuits 10A_1 to 10A_3, it is possible to prevent a current from flowing into that detection circuit from the other detection circuits.

[0085] For example, assume that an abnormality occurs in the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit 10A_1. At this time, the voltage applied to the detection circuit 10A_1 is substantially 0V, whereas a voltage having a predetermined voltage value is applied to the detection circuits 10A_2 and 10A_3 from the power supply VDD. Therefore, if no measures are taken, a current may flow from the detection circuits 10A_2 and 10A_3 to the detection circuit 10A_1 due to a potential difference between the detection circuits 10A_2 and 10A_3 and the detection circuit 10A_1, and a weak voltage may be output from the power state detection unit 60_1. In this embodiment, since the diode D1 is inserted in the rear stage of the detection resistor Rs_1, it is possible to prevent such a reverse flow of the current via the diode D1, and the occurrence of the above-mentioned malfunction can be prevented.

[0086] Third embodiment 8 and 9 according to the third embodiment of the present invention has the same configuration as the sensor system 1 in the first embodiment, and exerts the same effects, except for the following points. In the drawings, components common to the components in the pressure sensor 10 in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0087] 8 and 2, the pressure sensor 10B in this embodiment differs from the pressure sensor 10 in the first embodiment in that it has a power status detection unit 60B instead of the power status detection unit 60. The power status detection unit 60B differs from the power status detection unit 60 in the first embodiment in that it has a detection resistor RsB in addition to the detection resistor Rs. The resistance value of the detection resistor RsB is equal to the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs, but may be different.

[0088] One end of the detection resistor RsB is electrically and physically connected to the second connection point 52. However, as long as the detection resistor RsB is electrically connected to the second connection point 52, it may be indirectly connected to the second connection point 52. In addition, as long as the detection resistor RsB is electrically connected to the second connection point 52, it may be connected at a position shifted from the second connection point 52.

[0089] The fifth electrode unit 45B is electrically and physically connected to the other end of the detection resistor RsB. However, the fifth electrode unit 45B may be indirectly connected to the other end of the detection resistor RsB as long as it is electrically connected to the other end of the detection resistor RsB.

[0090] The fifth electrode portion 45B is connected to an electrode portion (or wiring) on ​​the substrate portion 81 via the connection wiring 82 shown in Fig. 1. The fifth electrode portion 45B is electrically connected to the fifth electrode portion 45 on the substrate portion 81 (see Fig. 9).

[0091] On the upper surface of the membrane 22, the detection resistor RsB is formed on the side where the third sensor resistor R3 is located, and the detection resistor Rs is formed on the side where the first sensor resistor R1 is located. The detection resistor RsB is formed in a region where the distortion is small together with the detection resistor Rs. More specifically, the detection resistor RsB and the detection resistor Rs are formed between the first distortion region 24 and the outer edge 23 of the membrane 22.

[0092] However, the positions of the detection resistor RsB and the detection resistor Rs are not limited to the positions shown in the figure, and may be changed as appropriate. For example, one of the detection resistor RsB and the detection resistor Rs may be formed in the periphery of the first strained region 24, and the other of the detection resistor RsB and the detection resistor Rs may be formed in the outer edge portion 23 of the membrane 22. Also, at least a part of the detection resistor RsB may be formed in a region radially inward from the first strained region 24, and at least a part of the detection resistor Rs may be formed in a region radially inward from the first strained region 24. Alternatively, the detection resistor RsB and the detection resistor Rs may be formed in the outer edge portion 23 of the membrane 22.

[0093] The extension direction of the detection resistor RsB is substantially the same as the extension direction of the detection resistor Rs, and the detection resistor RsB and the detection resistor Rs are disposed facing each other. In the illustrated example, the detection resistor RsB and the detection resistor Rs each extend from the first strain region 24 toward the outer edge portion 23 of the membrane 22, but the extension direction of the detection resistor RsB and the detection resistor Rs is not limited thereto. As with the detection resistor Rs shown in FIG. 2, the detection resistor RsB and the detection resistor Rs shown in FIG. 8 may each extend in a meandering shape along the circumferential direction of the membrane 22. In this case, the detection resistor RsB may be located outside (or inside) the detection resistor Rs in the radial direction of the membrane 22. Alternatively, at least one of the detection resistor RsB and the detection resistor Rs may extend radially along the radial direction of the membrane 22.

[0094] The extending directions of the detection resistor RsB and the detection resistor Rs may be different from each other. For example, one of the detection resistor RsB and the detection resistor Rs may extend along the circumferential direction of the membrane 22, and the other of the detection resistor RsB and the detection resistor Rs may extend from the first strain region 24 toward the outer edge 23 of the membrane 22.

[0095] 9, in this embodiment, a first conductive path W1 passing through the detection resistor Rs and a second conductive path W2 passing through the detection resistor RsB are formed in parallel between the fifth connection point 52 and the power supply monitoring circuit 70. Therefore, when power is normally supplied from the power supply VDD to the detection circuit 30, currents flow through the first conductive path W1 and the second conductive path W2, and each current is output to the power supply monitoring circuit 70. The sum of the currents flowing through the first conductive path W1 and the second conductive path W2 is converted into a voltage value by the power supply monitoring circuit 70, and the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit 30 can be determined based on the converted value.

[0096] In the illustrated example, the first conductive path W1 and the second conductive path W2 are connected after the detection resistor Rs and the detection resistor RsB, but they may be formed as separate conductive paths without being connected. In this case, the power supply monitoring circuit 70 determines the state of the power supplied to the detection circuit 30 based on the current value (or voltage value) of the current flowing through at least one of the first conductive path W1 and the second conductive path W2.

[0097] In this manner, in this embodiment, the current flowing through the detection resistors Rs, RsB can be detected through the fifth electrode units 45, 45B electrically connected to the other ends of the detection resistors Rs, RsB. Therefore, even if the wire bonding or the like connecting the fifth electrode unit 45 and the electrode unit of the substrate unit 81 (see FIG. 1) is broken and it becomes impossible to detect the current flowing through the detection resistor Rs (first conductive path W1), it is possible to continue to detect the current flowing through the detection resistor RsB (second conductive path W2), and the availability of the power state detection unit 60B can be improved. In addition, the durability of the detection resistors Rs, RsB can be improved by distributing the current to the detection resistors Rs, RsB.

[0098] Fourth embodiment 10, the sensor system 1C having pressure sensors 10C_1 to 10C_3 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention has the same configuration as the sensor system 1 in the first embodiment, and exerts the same effects and advantages, except for the following points. In the drawings, components common to the components in the sensor system 1 in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0099] As is clear from comparing FIG. 10 with FIG. 4A, the pressure sensor 10C_1 has a power status detection unit 60C_1 which differs from the power status detection unit 60_1 in the first embodiment in that it has a detection resistor Rs'_1 and a detection resistor Rs''_1 in addition to the detection resistor Rs_1. Further, the pressure sensor 10C_2 has a power status detection unit 60C_2 which differs from the power status detection unit 60_2 in the first embodiment in that it has a detection resistor Rs'_2 and a detection resistor Rs''_2 in addition to the detection resistor Rs_2. In addition, the pressure sensor 10C_3 has a power state detection unit 60C_3, which differs from the power state detection unit 60_3 in the first embodiment in that it has a detection resistor Rs'_3 and a detection resistor Rs''_3 in addition to the detection resistor Rs_3.

[0100] The resistance values ​​of the detection resistor Rs_1, the detection resistor Rs'_1 and the detection resistor Rs''_1 are different from one another, and are preferably set in stages so that the values ​​differ at a substantially constant rate. For example, the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs_1 is 10 kΩ, the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs'_1 is 20 kΩ, and the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs''_1 is 40 kΩ, and these resistance values ​​are set based on a relationship of a geometric progression. However, the resistance values ​​of the detection resistors Rs_1 to Rs''_1 are not limited to this and may be changed as appropriate.

[0101] The resistance values ​​of the detection resistor Rs_2, the detection resistor Rs'_2 and the detection resistor Rs''_2 are different from one another, and are preferably set in stages so that the values ​​differ at a substantially constant rate. For example, the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs_2 is 10 kΩ, the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs'_2 is 20 kΩ, and the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs''_2 is 40 kΩ, and these resistance values ​​are set based on a relationship of a geometric progression. However, the resistance values ​​of the detection resistors Rs_2 to Rs''_2 are not limited to this and may be changed as appropriate.

[0102] The resistance values ​​of the detection resistor Rs_3, the detection resistor Rs'_3 and the detection resistor Rs''_3 are different from one another, and are preferably set in stages so that the values ​​differ at a substantially constant rate. For example, the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs_3 is 10 kΩ, the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs'_3 is 20 kΩ, and the resistance value of the detection resistor Rs''_3 is 40 kΩ, and these resistance values ​​are set based on a relationship of a geometric progression. However, the resistance values ​​of the detection resistors Rs_3 to Rs''_3 are not limited to this and may be changed as appropriate.

[0103] As described above, the resistance values ​​of the detection resistors Rs_1, Rs_2, and Rs_3 are equal. Also, the resistance values ​​of the detection resistors Rs'_1, Rs'_2, and Rs'_3 are equal. Also, the resistance values ​​of the detection resistors Rs''_1, Rs''_2, and Rs''_3 are equal.

[0104] In the power status detection unit 60C_1, a fifth electrode unit 45'_1 is electrically and physically connected to the other end of the detection resistor Rs'_1, and a fifth electrode unit 45''_1 is electrically and physically connected to the other end of the detection resistor Rs''_1. Of the fifth electrode unit 45_1, the fifth electrode unit 45'_1 and the fifth electrode unit 45''_1, only the fifth electrode unit 45_1 is electrically connected to the fifth connection point 55.

[0105] In the power status detection unit 60C_2, a fifth electrode unit 45'_2 is electrically and physically connected to the other end of the detection resistor Rs'_2, and a fifth electrode unit 45''_2 is electrically and physically connected to the other end of the detection resistor Rs''_2. Of the fifth electrode unit 45_2, the fifth electrode unit 45'_2, and the fifth electrode unit 45''_2, only the fifth electrode unit 45'_2 is electrically connected to the fifth connection point 55.

[0106] In the power status detection unit 60C_3, a fifth electrode unit 45'_3 is electrically and physically connected to the other end of the detection resistor Rs'_3, and a fifth electrode unit 45''_3 is electrically and physically connected to the other end of the detection resistor Rs''_3. Of the fifth electrode unit 45_3, the fifth electrode unit 45'_3 and the fifth electrode unit 45''_3, only the fifth electrode unit 45''_3 is electrically connected to the fifth connection point 55.

[0107] Therefore, the power status detection unit 60C_1 outputs a current Is_1 through the detection resistor Rs_1, the power status detection unit 60C_2 outputs a current Is_2 through the detection resistor Rs'_2, and the power status detection unit 60C_3 outputs a current Is_3 through the detection resistor Rs''_3. Then, a current Is which is the sum of the currents Is_1, Is_2, and Is_3 is output to the power supply monitoring circuit 70.

[0108] In this way, by providing the power status detection unit 60C_1 with a plurality of detection resistors Rs'_1 and Rs''_1 in advance in addition to the detection resistor Rs_1, a detection resistor having a desired resistance value can be appropriately selected and used from the plurality of detection resistors Rs_1 to Rs''_1 depending on the usage situation. Therefore, in the pressure sensor 10_1, it is not necessary to trim the detection resistor Rs_1 so that its resistance value becomes a desired resistance value. The same can be said for the pressure sensors 10_1 and 10_2.

[0109] Furthermore, in this embodiment, by simply appropriately selecting the detection resistor to be connected to the fifth connection point 55 in each of the pressure sensors 10C_1 to 10C_3, it is possible to easily configure the sensor system 1C in which the detection resistors have different resistance values ​​from one another.

[0110] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention.

[0111] (1) The technique shown in the second embodiment may be applied to the third embodiment, and a diode may be connected to the other end of the detection resistor Rs or the other end of the detection resistor RsB. Also, the technique shown in the second embodiment may be applied to the fourth embodiment, and a diode may be connected to the other end of the detection resistors Rs_1 to Rs''_1, Rs_2 to Rs''_2, and Rs_3 to Rs''_3.

[0112] (2) A sensor system may be constructed by connecting a plurality of pressure sensors 10B according to the third embodiment.

[0113] (3) The technique shown in the third embodiment may be applied to the second embodiment, and each of the power status detection units 60_1 to 60_3 may be provided with a detection resistor RsB. The technique shown in the third embodiment may be applied to the fourth embodiment, and each of the power status detection units 60C_1 to 60C_3 may be provided with a plurality of detection resistors RsB.

[0114] (4) In the third embodiment, the number of detection resistors RsB is not limited to one, and may be more than one.

[0115] (5) In the fourth embodiment, each of the pressure sensors 10C_1 to 10C_3 is provided with three detection resistors, but the number of detection resistors may be two, or four or more.

[0116] (6) In each of the above embodiments, the shape and fixing structure of the membrane 22 are merely examples, and the pressure sensor 10 of the present invention may adopt any other shape and fixing structure that allows the membrane 22 to deform appropriately in response to pressure. Furthermore, the membrane 22 is not limited to only the stem and metal plate shown in each of the above embodiments, and membranes of other shapes and materials may also be used. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 1,1A,1C...Sensor system 10, 10_1, 10_2, 10_3, 10A_1, 10A_2, 10A_3, 10B, 10C_1, 10C_2, 10C_3...Pressure sensor 12...Connecting member 12a...Thread groove 12b...Flow path 14…Restraining member 20…Stem 21...Flange section 22…Membrane 22a…Inner surface 22b…External surface 24...First strain area 26…Second strain area 30, 30_1, 30_2, 30_3…Detection circuit R1: First sensor resistor R2: Second sensor resistor R3: Third sensor resistor R4: 4th sensor resistor Ro…Output resistance 41,42,43,44,45,45_1,45_2,45_3,45B,45'_1,45'_2,45'_3,45''_1,45''_2,45''_3...Electrode part 51, 52, 53, 54, 55…Connection points 60, 60_1, 60_2, 60_3, 60B, 60C_1, 60C_2, 60C_3...Power status detection unit Rs, Rs_1, Rs_2, Rs_3, RsB, Rs'_1, Rs''_1, Rs'_2, Rs''_2, Rs'_3, Rs''_3...detection resistor D1, D2, D3...Diodes 70...Power status detection unit 82,82_1~82_3…Connection wiring

Claims

1. A membrane that deforms in response to pressure; A plurality of sensor resistors formed on the membrane and constituting a detection circuit; a detection resistor formed on the membrane, one end of the detection resistor being electrically connected to the detection circuit and the other end of the detection resistor being electrically connected to an electrode portion formed on the membrane, The detection resistor is made up of a plurality of resistors, The electrode portion is composed of a plurality of electrodes, A pressure sensor in which the plurality of electrode portions are electrically connected to the other ends of the plurality of detection resistors.

2. 2. The pressure sensor according to claim 1, wherein one end of the detection resistor is electrically connected to a conductive path between the detection circuit and a power source that supplies power to the detection circuit.

3. A sensor system having a plurality of pressure sensors according to claim 1 or 2, the detection circuit provided in each of the plurality of pressure sensors is electrically connected to a common power source; The electrode portions electrically connected to the other ends of the detection resistors provided in the plurality of pressure sensors are electrically connected to each other.

4. A membrane that deforms in response to pressure; A plurality of sensor resistors formed on the membrane and constituting a detection circuit; a detection resistor formed on the membrane, one end of which is electrically connected to the detection circuit and the other end of which is electrically connected to an electrode portion formed on the membrane; the detection circuit provided in each of the plurality of pressure sensors is electrically connected to a common power source; the electrode portions electrically connected to the other ends of the detection resistors provided in the respective pressure sensors are electrically connected to each other, The sensor system includes a plurality of detection resistors each having a different resistance value, the detection resistor being provided in each of the plurality of pressure sensors.

5. A membrane that deforms in response to pressure; A plurality of sensor resistors formed on the membrane and constituting a detection circuit; a detection resistor formed on the membrane, one end of which is electrically connected to the detection circuit and the other end of which is electrically connected to an electrode portion formed on the membrane; the detection circuit provided in each of the plurality of pressure sensors is electrically connected to a common power source; the electrode portions electrically connected to the other ends of the detection resistors provided in the respective pressure sensors are electrically connected to each other, A sensor system in which the resistance value of the detection resistor provided in each of the plurality of pressure sensors is set in stages so that the resistance value differs at a substantially constant rate.

6. A membrane that deforms in response to pressure; A plurality of sensor resistors formed on the membrane and constituting a detection circuit; a detection resistor formed on the membrane, one end of which is electrically connected to the detection circuit and the other end of which is electrically connected to an electrode portion formed on the membrane; the detection circuit provided in each of the plurality of pressure sensors is electrically connected to a common power source; the electrode portions electrically connected to the other ends of the detection resistors provided in the respective pressure sensors are electrically connected to each other, Each of the pressure sensors includes a plurality of detection resistors having different resistance values, A sensor system in which the electrode portions electrically connected to the other end of any one of the detection resistors provided in each of the multiple pressure sensors are electrically connected to each other among the multiple pressure sensors.

7. A membrane that deforms in response to pressure; A plurality of sensor resistors formed on the membrane and constituting a detection circuit; a detection resistor formed on the membrane, one end of which is electrically connected to the detection circuit and the other end of which is electrically connected to an electrode portion formed on the membrane; the detection circuit provided in each of the plurality of pressure sensors is electrically connected to a common power source; the electrode portions electrically connected to the other ends of the detection resistors provided in the respective pressure sensors are electrically connected to each other, a diode is electrically connected to the other end of the detection resistor provided in each of the plurality of pressure sensors; The electrode portion electrically connected to the other end of the detection resistor provided in each of the plurality of pressure sensors via the diode is electrically connected to each other.

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