Deformable Physiological Sensor Pad for Neonatal Skin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing physiological sensor pads cause discomfort and damage due to pressure points when applied to sensitive skin, particularly in neonates, as they fail to conform to small radius compound curvatures effectively.
Innovation Solution
A non-invasive, disposable sensor pad with a multi-layered structure including a flexcircuit assembly and padding assembly, featuring a deformable layer and hydrocolloid adhesive, which conforms to and maintains a compound curvature shape, minimizing pressure points and ensuring easy application and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If optical components are made thicker to maximize flexibility and protrude through the sensor pad surface, then the sensor can maintain structural integrity and functionality, but pressure points are generated that cause pain and damage to sensitive skin
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor pad is divided into multiple layers including a top foam layer, flexcircuit assembly, and bottom foam layer. The optical components are positioned at the mechanical neutral axis between the foam layers, distributing the thickness and pressure across multiple segments rather than concentrating it at the surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The design moves the optical components from a surface-protruding configuration to an embedded configuration within the sensor pad thickness. By positioning components at the mechanical neutral axis in the thickness dimension, the solution eliminates surface pressure points while maintaining internal structural integrity.
2Ease of manufacture
If the sensor pad is made rigid to maintain component positioning, then manufacturing and assembly are simplified, but the sensor cannot conform to small radius compound curvatures of neonate heads
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor pad uses thin foam layers and a flexible circuit board that can bend and conform to curved surfaces. The optical components are mounted on the flexible circuit board, which maintains their relative positioning while allowing the entire assembly to adapt to the curvature of neonate heads.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor pad transitions from a rigid structure to a dynamic, flexible structure that can adapt its shape. The foam layers and flexible circuit board allow the sensor to dynamically conform to different head shapes and sizes while maintaining functional component alignment.
3Reliability
If conventional adhesive is used to secure the sensor pad, then strong adhesion is achieved, but removal causes damage to delicate neonate skin
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive properties are modified by using hydrocolloid material that changes its adhesion characteristics based on moisture absorption. The adhesive provides strong initial bonding for reliable sensor attachment, then becomes gentler during removal after absorbing moisture and softening, preventing skin damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor pad combines hydrocolloid adhesive with foam layers and flexible circuit materials to create a composite structure. This composite approach provides both strong adhesion for reliable positioning and gentle removal properties for skin safety.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor for measuring physiological characteristics is provided that includes a circuit assembly and a means of deforming the sensor to a desired shape of small radius compound curvature. In one embodiment, the sensor includes a deformable layer configured to conform and maintain a shape of a surface on which the sensor is applied.