Absorbent Member Liquid Detection Using Integrated Electromotive Power Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for assessing the replacement necessity of absorbent members in disposable diapers are either overly complex due to separate power generators and detectors or only detect urination occurrence without providing information on the amount of liquid absorbed, leading to potential leakage issues.
Innovation Solution
A replacement necessity assessment apparatus that integrates a power generator capable of generating power based on liquid contact, a signal output unit for detecting the power generation amount, and a processing unit to assess the necessity for replacement by acquiring parameters such as the number of infusions and amount of liquid per infusion, allowing for timely replacement before leakage occurs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate power generator and detector are used, then the detection function is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power generator and detector into a single integrated electromotive module. The module includes a pair of electrodes that generate electromotive force when contacted by urine, with the detection section and power generation section merged into one unit that provides both power and detection signals simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromotive module serves multiple functions: it acts as both a power generator (converting chemical energy from urine to electrical energy) and a detector (providing detection signals based on the same urine contact). This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components while maintaining reliable detection.
2Device complexity
If only urination occurrence is detected, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision of liquid amount is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the electromotive force generated by urine contact and using this information to assess the absorption state. The detection section provides ongoing signals that allow the system to determine not just whether urination occurred, but also the amount of liquid absorbed, enabling timely replacement assessment.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The apparatus effectively detects liquid absorption and assesses the need for absorbent member replacement, reducing the complexity of the system and preventing leakage by providing accurate information on the amount of liquid absorbed, thus ensuring timely replacement.
Implementation Method 1
an electromotive module which generates electromotive force by coming into contact with urine
Implementation Method 2
a piezoelectric element which provides a signal caused by piezoelectric generation upon contact with urine
Data Source
AI summary
This replacement necessity assessment apparatus for an absorbent member includes: a power generator which is configured to generate power as a result of contact with liquid absorbed in the absorbent member, and of which power generation amount changes in accordance with an amount of the liquid; a signal output unit configured to output a detection signal according to the power generation amount; and a processing unit configured to acquire a parameter regarding the amount of the liquid based on the detection signal, the processing unit configured to determine, based on the parameter, whether or not replacement of the absorbent member is necessary.