Capacitive Sensor for Stretchable Rehabilitation Bands
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing muscle strengthening bands used for rehabilitation are difficult for individuals with dementia or poor eyesight to use effectively, as they rely on visual cues for deformation measurement, and lack motivation due to insufficient feedback on their rehabilitation efforts.
Innovation Solution
A sensor device integrated into a stretchable structure, featuring a sheet-like dielectric layer made of elastomer composition and electroconductive electrode layers containing carbon nanotubes, which measures deformation through capacitance changes and outputs information in recognizable forms such as sound or light, allowing users to perceive their stretching efforts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual scales or marks are displayed on the surface of the band for deformation measurement, then the deformation amount can be confirmed, but individuals with dementia or poor eyesight cannot recognize the scales or characters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the visual mechanical scale system with an electronic sensing system. The sensor element detects deformation through capacitance changes caused by the movement of the dielectric layer, and this information is converted to audible output. This substitution eliminates the need for visual scales entirely, allowing users with poor eyesight or dementia to perceive deformation through sound instead.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary conversion system between the physical deformation and human perception. The sensor element acts as an intermediary that converts mechanical deformation into electrical capacitance changes, which are then converted into audible signals by the output unit. This intermediary chain allows deformation information to be transmitted to users who cannot see visual indicators.
2Device complexity
If traditional visual feedback methods are used for deformation indication, then the structure remains simple, but users are not sufficiently motivated to work hard for rehabilitation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the sensor element continuously monitors deformation and the output unit provides real-time audible feedback to the user. This feedback loop motivates users by providing immediate recognition of their rehabilitation efforts, transforming the abstract concept of deformation into tangible auditory signals that encourage continued practice.
Solution Approach 2:
While the patent uses sound instead of visual color changes, the principle of sensory feedback remains the same. The output unit converts capacitance changes into audible signals that vary with deformation magnitude, providing dynamic feedback that engages users emotionally and motivates them to achieve better rehabilitation results.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the dielectric layer is made highly deformable to accommodate large stretching, then the sensor can measure greater deformation ranges, but the electrode layers may lose contact or effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state and arrangement of the electrode layers to accommodate large deformations. The electrode layers are designed to maintain capacitive coupling through the deformable dielectric layer even when stretched significantly. The capacitance detection mechanism is specifically designed to remain effective across the full range of deformation, from relaxed to fully stretched states.
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 sensor device enables accurate measurement and feedback of deformation, enhancing user motivation by providing auditory or visual cues, thus improving the effectiveness of rehabilitation exercises for individuals with dementia or poor eyesight.
Implementation Method 1
a converter electrically connected to the sensor element and configured to convert capacitance at the detection portion varying in accordance with the deformation of the dielectric layer to electric characteristics
Implementation Method 2
electrode layers comprising an electroconductive composition containing carbon nanotubes and formed on a top surface and a bottom surface of the dielectric layer
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor device includes a sensor element, a converter, and an output unit. The sensor element includes a sheet-like dielectric layer including an elastomer composition and a top electrode layer and a bottom electrode layer each including an electroconductive composition containing carbon nanotubes. The top and the bottom electrode layers are formed on a top surface and a bottom surface of the dielectric layer, respectively, and are at least partially opposed to each other across the dielectric layer. The at least partially opposed portions of the top and the bottom electrode layers constitute a detection portion, and the dielectric layer reversibly deforms to change an area of a main surface of the dielectric layer. The converter electrically is connected to the sensor element and converts capacitance at the detection portion that varies in accordance with the deformation of the dielectric layer to electric characteristics.