Elastomeric Foam Sensors with Embedded Optical Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensors lack high resolution for haptic input, restrict the control of porous structure shape, and are limited to low strains or high stiffnesses, making them unsuitable for diverse applications.
Innovation Solution
The development of soft foam sensors utilizing three-dimensional elastomeric foam with integrated light sources and receivers, allowing for high spatial resolution haptic input through changes in light transmittance properties upon deformation, enabling depth sensing and flexible interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional rigid sensors are used, then measurement precision can be achieved, but adaptability to 3D shapes and comfort are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible elastomeric foam as the sensor substrate, replacing rigid sensor structures. This flexible foam can conform to various 3D shapes while maintaining the embedded optical sensing capability, thus achieving both adaptability to different geometries and high measurement precision for haptic input detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor integrates multiple materials with complementary properties: elastomeric foam provides flexibility and conformability, while embedded optical components (light sources and receivers) provide precise measurement capability. This composite structure enables the sensor to adapt to 3D shapes while maintaining high measurement precision.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the sensor uses high stiffness materials, then structural stability is improved, but ease of deformation and compliance are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes elastomeric foam with specific mechanical parameters (low stiffness, high compliance) that allow easy deformation while maintaining structural integrity. The material's viscoelastic properties enable it to deform smoothly under applied forces and return to its original shape, achieving both ease of deformation and structural stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the sensor is designed for high strain applications, then adaptability is improved, but measurement precision and resolution are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical contact sensing with optical sensing through the elastomeric foam. Light sources and receivers are embedded in the foam, and deformation is detected through changes in light transmission properties. This optical measurement approach maintains high precision even under large strains, as the optical path changes continuously with deformation rather than relying on mechanical contact.
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
These sensors provide enhanced haptic input capabilities, enabling natural interaction with computers and robots, and can be adapted to various applications by conforming to 3D shapes, offering improved accuracy and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric foam component (e.g., an elastomeric foam that changes at least one light transmittance property when compressed)
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are sensors and articles of manufacture comprising one or more sensors. Also provided are uses of the sensors. The sensors have an elastomeric foam and one or more light sources and one or more light receivers. In various examples, the light source(s) and light receiver(s) are disposed on and/or disposed in and/or partially disposed in the elastomeric foam.