Flexible Headgear Impact Sensor Layout for Moisture-Proof Wear
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies struggle to effectively detect, measure, and monitor head impacts and concussions in real-time, particularly in sports, which can lead to delayed recognition of injury severity and increased risk of further injuries.
Innovation Solution
A wearable device integrated into headgear that includes a flexible structure with a force sensing device, such as an accelerometer or gyroscope, to detect and measure linear and rotational accelerations, coupled with a processing circuit for data transmission and storage, allowing remote monitoring and neuropsychological assessment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid structure is used for the wearable device, then protection and durability are improved, but flexibility and comfort are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The wearable device uses a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) as the structural base, replacing traditional rigid PCBs. This FPC can be bent and deformed to match the curvature of the headgear while maintaining electrical connectivity through its flexible trace design. The device housing also employs flexible materials that can conform to the headgear surface, providing both protection and adaptability to different head shapes and sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates a flexible mounting system that allows dynamic adjustment to different headgear configurations. The flexible structure can adapt its shape during wear to accommodate head movements and different wearing positions, maintaining both structural integrity and comfort throughout the monitoring period.
2Measurement precision
If electronic components are placed at peripheral regions for optimal sensing, then detection accuracy is improved, but moisture exposure and vulnerability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from a two-dimensional planar layout to a three-dimensional curved surface mounting on the headgear. The flexible circuit board can be bent into different configurations, allowing sensors to be positioned at optimal locations for detection while the overall device structure follows the curvature of the head, naturally protecting components from direct moisture exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible protective housing encapsulates the electronic components, providing a barrier against moisture while allowing the device to conform to the headgear surface. This flexible shell protects peripheral components from environmental hazards while maintaining their functional positions for accurate sensing.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple layers are laminated together for moisture proofing, then protection is improved, but device thickness and complexity are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs composite material construction where multiple functional layers (flexible circuit board, sensor layers, protective housing) are integrated into a single multi-functional structure. This composite approach provides moisture protection through material selection and layer integration rather than simple lamination, reducing overall complexity while maintaining protective functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible circuit board serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, electrical connectivity, sensor mounting, and acts as part of the moisture barrier system. By merging these functions into a single integrated component rather than separate laminated layers, the device reduces complexity while maintaining moisture protection.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the device is made thin and flexible for comfort, then wearability is improved, but structural strength and protection are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses a flexible protective housing that is thin yet provides adequate protection through intelligent material selection and structural design. The flexible printed circuit board itself serves as a structural element that maintains strength while being thin and bendable, eliminating the need for thick rigid protective layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The combination of flexible materials with appropriate mechanical properties creates a structure that is both thin and strong. The composite construction allows the device to maintain structural integrity during wear while remaining thin and flexible enough to conform comfortably to the headgear and user's head.
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 immediate detection and monitoring of head impacts, providing data for assessing injury risk and severity, facilitating timely intervention and reducing the likelihood of cumulative injuries.
Implementation Method 1
a force sensing device configured to detect impact forces on the user's head
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a wearable device (100) adapted for use with a headgear for detecting impact forces on the user's head, comprising a flexible structure, a battery (130) and an electronic circuit (140) which is electrically connected to the battery, wherein a top cover (110), bottom cover (120), battery and electronic circuit are positioned in a stack and laminated together forming a flexible moisture proof device. The invention relates also to an arrangement having a wearable device.