Elastic Layer Sensing System for High-Resolution Force and Chemical Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tactile sensors used in exploration robots are limited in their ability to process data from multiple light sources and sensing elements, making it cumbersome to detect forces and physical features with high resolution, and they lack the capability to perform two-dimensional and three-dimensional scanning, surface texture sensing, and chemical feature detection.
Innovation Solution
A sensing system comprising an elastic layer with an image source and image sensor, controlled by a processor that analyzes image data to detect forces, pressure, and environmental features, enabling tactile sensation, two-dimensional and three-dimensional scanning, and chemical feature detection through image processing techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional tactile sensors use multiple light sources and light sensing elements to achieve high resolution force detection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and data processing becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple light sources into a single image source (such as an LCD panel or LED array) that can generate multiple light beams simultaneously. Multiple light sensing elements are merged into a single image sensor (CCD or CMOS) that captures images from all light beams at once. This consolidation maintains high measurement precision while significantly reducing device complexity and data processing burden.
Solution Approach 2:
The image source and image sensor serve multiple functions: they detect forces applied to the elastic layer, capture images of the surrounding environment through the elastic layer, and provide tactile sensation data. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate sensing systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining comprehensive sensing capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If conventional tactile sensors are designed to detect tactile sensation with high resolution, then measurement precision is improved, but the sensor cannot provide other sensing functions required by exploration robots
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic layer with image source and image sensor serves multiple sensing functions simultaneously: tactile force detection through light reflection changes, two-dimensional scanning by capturing environmental images, three-dimensional scanning through focused imaging, surface texture sensing via light pattern analysis, and chemical feature detection through specialized sensor integration. This universal design maintains high tactile resolution while providing comprehensive sensing capabilities for exploration robots.
3Adaptability or versatility
If exploration robots use specialized sensors for each sensing function, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple specialized sensing functions into a single integrated system consisting of an elastic layer, one image source, and one image sensor. This unified system performs tactile detection, two-dimensional scanning, three-dimensional scanning, surface texture sensing, and chemical feature detection, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability for various sensing requirements.
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 system provides efficient detection of forces and environmental features with high resolution, enabling exploration robots to perform advanced sensing functions such as two-dimensional and three-dimensional scanning and chemical feature detection, enhancing their capability to explore dangerous areas.
Implementation Method 1
at least one image source positioned under the elastic layer and generating at least one image and reflecting the image generated onto the elastic layer
Implementation Method 2
at least one image sensor positioned under the elastic layer, and capturing an image coming from the elastic layer or surrounding environment
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
In the sensing system according to the present invention, the position and intensity of a force applied is detected in an easy and practical manner and an image and video of the surrounding environment is taken, wherein a three-dimensional scanning thereof is performed, and the surface texture of the object touched and creep is detected; and a two-dimensional and three-dimensional image (hologram) may be generated and physical and/or chemical features are detected. The said sensing system (S) comprises an elastic layer (1); an image source (5) positioned under the said elastic layer (1) and generating an image (P) and reflecting the image generated onto the elastic layer (1); an image sensor (7) positioned under the elastic layer (1), and capturing an image coming from the elastic layer (1) or surrounding environment; a control unit which controls the image (P) generated by the said image source (5) and analyzes the image captured by the image sensor (7) using image processing techniques so as to detect data about the surrounding environment; a first data link (8) for data communication between the image source (5) and the control unit; and a second data link (9) for data communication between the image sensor (7) and the control unit.