Fiber-Optic Biometric Seat Sensing for Multi-Biosignal Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems lack a comprehensive method for detecting a wide range of biosignals from individuals with reasonable sensory effort, particularly in transportation and seating environments, where multiple biosignals need to be monitored simultaneously with high precision and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a biometric seating device with fiber-optic sensor elements based on optical interferometry, specifically a Michelson interferometer, which includes a light source, fiber coupler, and photodiodes for precise detection of biosignals such as temperature, heartbeat, heart rate variability, blood pressure, and perspiration, integrated into seating devices like seats, backrests, and armrests for continuous monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple separate sensors are used to detect different biosignals, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple biosignal detection functions into a single fiber-optic sensor element that can simultaneously detect heart rate, respiration rate, and other physiological parameters through integrated optical measurement, thereby reducing the number of separate sensors needed while maintaining detection precision
Solution Approach 2:
The fiber-optic sensor element is designed as a universal measurement platform capable of detecting multiple types of biosignals through different measurement modes (optical interferometry, ballistocardiography, respiratory impedance), eliminating the need for multiple specialized sensors
2Measurement precision
If contact-based sensors are used for biosignal detection, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical contact sensors with contactless fiber-optic optical measurement technology that detects biosignals through optical fields and ballistocardiographic principles, eliminating the need for direct skin contact while preserving measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The fiber-optic sensor acts as an intermediary medium that transmits optical signals through the seat structure to detect physiological movements and biosignals without requiring direct contact between the sensor and the user's body
3Ease of operation
If fiber-optic sensor elements are integrated into seating devices, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber-optic sensor system is divided into modular components (light source, fiber-optic elements, photodetectors, evaluation units) that can be independently manufactured and then integrated into the seating device, reducing the overall manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining optical measurement accuracy
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
Enables accurate and comprehensive monitoring of various biosignals, allowing for real-time analysis of the operator's condition, including fatigue, stress, and emotional states, facilitating timely interventions and emergency responses by providing precise data on vital signs without physical movement of the person.
Implementation Method 1
at least one fiber-optic sensor element based on optical interferometry, which is configured as a Michelson interferometer
Implementation Method 2
configured as a Michelson interferometer and has a light source... The light from the light source is coupled by the fiber coupler into at least one sensor arm and one reference arm. The coupled light is reflected at the fiber ends, travels back through the fiber coupler, encounters interference
Implementation Method 3
There, it is detected by the two photodiodes
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a system for sensing a person's biosignals. The invention also relates to a means of conveyance, in particular a motor vehicle, in which such a system is used. The system comprises a biometric seat device (1) for the person, the biometric seat device (1) having at least one optical sensor element (2), and an evaluation unit (20) for evaluating signals (S) of the at least one optical sensor element (2). The system is designed to determine the person's biosignals on the basis of the signals (S) from the at least one optical sensor element (2). The optical sensor element (2) can be implemented as a fibre-optic sensor element.