Bed Leg Load Sensor Assembly for Multi-Subject Signal Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biometric sensing systems struggle to accurately distinguish between multiple subjects and external vibrations, leading to inaccurate detection of biometrics, presence, weight, location, and position on a bed.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of load sensor assemblies with multiple substrate support members, each comprising a load bearing member, a base, a load sensor, and a printed circuit board, which transmit and process load data from the bed substrate to accurately detect and differentiate between multiple subjects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If noncontact sensing methods are used to detect biometrics and body movements, then the ability to detect presence is improved, but the accuracy deteriorates due to inability to distinguish external sources of vibration and multiple subjects
Solution Approach 1:
The bed frame is divided into multiple independent sensor assemblies positioned at different locations (head, foot, sides). Each assembly independently measures local forces and vibrations, allowing the system to segment and differentiate signals from multiple subjects and external sources through spatial analysis of the divided measurement data.
2Ease of operation
If air pressure variations are present in the sensing environment, then the sensing capability is maintained, but the accuracy of determining biometrics, presence, weight, location and position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Load sensors serve as intermediary devices that directly measure mechanical forces transmitted through the bed frame structure. These sensors act as mediators between the subject and the detection system, providing direct force measurements that are immune to air pressure variations and other environmental factors that affect noncontact sensing methods.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensors are positioned in or replace bed legs to detect biometrics, then the ability to detect multiple parameters is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each sensor assembly is designed as a universal multi-functional unit that can detect multiple parameters (weight, position, motion, vibration) simultaneously using the same physical sensors. The load sensors measure both static weight and dynamic vibrations, while the controller processes all signals to derive multiple biometric parameters, eliminating the need for separate specialized sensors for each measurement type.
4Measurement precision
If load sensor assemblies with multiple substrate support members are implemented, then the accuracy of detecting and differentiating multiple subjects is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into identical modular sensor assemblies that can be manufactured separately and then installed in different locations on the bed frame. Each assembly contains the same components (load sensor, printed circuit board, housing), allowing for standardized mass production and simplifying the manufacturing process despite the multi-sensor configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assemblies are designed to be nested within or integrated into the existing bed frame structure, with housings that fit around or within the leg members. This nesting approach allows the complex sensor systems to be manufactured as compact units that integrate seamlessly with the bed structure, reducing overall manufacturing complexity.
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
This solution enables accurate detection of biometric parameters, presence, motion, and position for multiple subjects, enhancing signal accuracy and separating individual signals from mixed data, thereby improving the reliability of biometric sensing systems.
Implementation Method 1
a load sensor between the cap and the base, wherein the load bearing member is configured to transmit a load from the substrate to the load sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A bed comprises substrate support members, each including a load bearing and a base configured to provide contact with a floor. The load bearing member is configured to move vertically relative to the base, while the base and the load bearing member are configured to fit together to maintain lateral alignment of the base and the load bearing member. A load sensor is positioned between the base and the load bearing member, the load bearing member configured to transmit a load from the substrate to the load sensor. A printed circuit board is in communication with the load sensor. A controller is in communication with the printed circuit board of each substrate support member and is configured to receive and process data output by the printed circuit boards.