Body Support Sinkage Detection Using Pulse Induction Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support devices for body parts, such as mattresses, face challenges in precise and reliable sinkage detection, with complex and costly installation and maintenance, and are not adaptable for various support types.
Innovation Solution
A support device featuring inflatable hollow cells with metal pellets and substrate windings for deformation detection, utilizing pulse induction technology connected to an electronic unit for managing pressure and triggering alarms, allowing for precise deformation measurement and pressure adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional deformation detection means (metal sheet and induction coil) are used, then sinkage detection is possible, but the detection precision and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into multiple independent sensor units, each comprising a metal pellet and corresponding windings. This segmentation allows for distributed detection across the support surface, improving both precision and reliability through multiple measurement points rather than a single detection zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical contact-based detection with electromagnetic induction sensing. The pulse induction detection means measures changes in electromagnetic field caused by metal pellet displacement, eliminating mechanical wear and contact issues while improving detection precision and reliability.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If complex detection means (metal sheet, induction coil, electronic circuit) are implemented, then deformation detection capability is achieved, but positioning, maintaining and replacement become difficult and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive components such as metal pellets and flat windings that can be easily manufactured and replaced. These components are designed to be cost-effective and simple, reducing the complexity and cost of positioning, maintaining, and replacing detection means.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system is designed with universal applicability across different support devices. The metal pellets and windings configuration can be adapted to various mattress and support applications, simplifying maintenance and replacement through standardized components that work across multiple device types.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If traditional detection means are used, then sinkage detection is possible, but the devices are not applicable for detecting the sinkage of various support types
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is designed with universal applicability across different support devices. The metal pellets and windings configuration can be adapted to various mattress and support applications, simplifying maintenance and replacement through standardized components that work across multiple device types.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for parameter adjustments in the detection configuration, such as varying the number, position, and arrangement of metal pellets and windings to suit different support types and applications, enhancing versatility while maintaining core detection functionality.
4Measurement precision
If pulse induction detection means with metal windings and metal pellets are used, then deformation detection precision is improved, but sensitivity to external electromagnetic interference may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pulse induction detection uses periodic pulsed electromagnetic fields rather than continuous fields. This periodic action allows for better discrimination between actual deformation signals and continuous electromagnetic interference, as the pulsed nature creates distinct temporal patterns that can be filtered and recognized more effectively.
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 solution provides more accurate and reproducible deformation detection, is less sensitive to external electromagnetic interference, and is easier to produce and protect, while being adaptable for different support applications.
Implementation Method 1
The deformation detection means can include a pulse induction detection means connected to said windings
Data Source
AI summary
Support device for supporting a body or a part of a body, in particular of a human body, comprising at least one deformable element with a first face and a second face opposite each other and provided with at least one detection means for detecting deformations of said deformable element, in which the detection means comprises: a substrate sheet (20), which is connected to one of the faces of said deformable element (6) extending parallel thereto and is provided with a plurality of metal windings (19) formed flat on at least one face of this substrate sheet, and a plurality of metal pellets (28), which are connected to the other face of said deformable element.