Embedded Capacitive Grip Sensor for Durable Barbell Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grip sensors face issues such as exposed wires, requirement for surface deformation, specific hand placement, and sensitivity concerns due to delicate sensor elements, limiting their application and durability.
Innovation Solution
Robust capacitive grip sensors with embedded conductive strands and non-conductive layers on a substrate, where the conductive strands are oriented along the axis and connected to processors for capacitance detection, allowing for efficient grip presence measurement without surface deformation, and featuring a durable ceramic coating for protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional grip sensors are used, then grip detection function is achieved, but exposed wires along the circumference compromise durability and reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the conductive elements from traditional exposed wire configurations and embeds them within the grip surface structure itself. The conductive strands are integrated into channels or recesses in the substrate, eliminating exposed wires while maintaining the capacitive sensing function. This integration resolves the contradiction by removing the harmful exposed wire structure while preserving grip detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material construction with a substrate containing embedded conductive strands, non-conductive layers, and ceramic topcoats. This multi-layer composite structure protects the sensitive conductive elements while maintaining electrical functionality, thereby improving reliability without requiring complex exposed wire arrangements.
2Measurement precision
If delicate sensor elements are used, then measurement precision is improved, but the sensor becomes vulnerable to damage during assembly and application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a ceramic topcoat layer over the conductive sensor elements before final assembly. This ceramic coating serves as a protective cushion that shields the delicate conductive strands from mechanical damage during assembly and use, while allowing the sensor to maintain its sensitivity for accurate grip detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-layer composite structure with ceramic topcoat provides inherent protection to the delicate conductive elements. The ceramic layer acts as a hard, durable protective barrier that prevents damage to the sensitive sensor elements during assembly and operation, resolving the contradiction between sensitivity and durability.
3Device complexity
If surface deformation is required for detection, then simple sensor structure is maintained, but the sensor cannot detect grip without altering the gripped surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical deformation-based detection with capacitive sensing. The embedded conductive strands function as capacitive sensors that detect changes in electrical capacitance when a hand approaches or grasps the surface, eliminating the need for mechanical surface deformation while maintaining simple sensor structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electrical field as an intermediary between the sensor and the user's hand. The capacitive sensing mechanism detects grip presence through changes in electrical capacitance caused by the proximity of the human body, providing a non-contact detection method that doesn't require surface deformation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If specific hand placement is required, then sensor placement flexibility is improved, but the sensor becomes less versatile for different grip types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the grip sensor with multiple conductive strands arranged along the length of the substrate, enabling detection of various grip types including full握持, partial握持, and different hand positions. The distributed sensor elements provide universal detection capability across multiple grip configurations, eliminating the need for specific hand placement 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 solution enables reliable and durable grip sensing across various applications, including barbell and dumbbell spotting, without the need for surface deformation, and with enhanced durability and sensitivity control.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor element includes a capacitive sensor that provides a capacitance signal that changes in response to proximity of a human hand
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide robust capacitive grip sensors that may be used in a variety of applications, including single-handed and double-handed grips, such as but not limited to barbells. Apparatus as disclosed herein and efficiently measure the presence of a human grip without requiring deformation of a gripped surface area.