Flexible Sensor Electrode Array for Pressure and Shear Force Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor apparatus can only measure the pressure component of force acting perpendicular to a surface, failing to detect the shear component of force, which is crucial in preventing skin tissue breakdowns, especially in interactions with external support surfaces like prostheses, wheelchairs, and beds.
Innovation Solution
A flexible sensor apparatus with transducer means comprising first and second electrode parts spaced apart by a flexible means, capable of measuring both pressure and shear components of force, where the electrode parts move towards each other for pressure and parallel to each other for shear, allowing for X and Y-direction components to be detected, and produced using 3D printing or elastomer materials for comfort and cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If known sensor apparatus is used to measure force at the interface, then the pressure component can be measured, but the shear component cannot be measured
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor apparatus is segmented into multiple independent sensor elements arranged in an array. Each sensor element measures local pressure and shear forces, and the combined data from all elements provides comprehensive measurement of the total force components at the interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from measuring only the normal pressure component (one dimension) to measuring both normal pressure and shear components (multiple dimensions). This is achieved by arranging sensor elements in a two-dimensional array that can detect forces in multiple directions, thereby capturing the complete force vector at the interface.
2Measurement precision
If sensor apparatus is placed at the interface between human body and external support surface, then force measurement is enabled, but comfort and wearability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor apparatus utilizes a flexible substrate that can conform to the contours of the human body surface. This flexible film structure allows the sensor array to be placed at the interface without causing discomfort, while still enabling accurate force measurements. The flexibility ensures the sensor adapts to body movements and maintains contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor apparatus is designed to be dynamic and adaptable rather than rigid. The flexible substrate and sensor elements can move and deform with the human body, maintaining measurement capability while ensuring comfort during various activities and positions.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional sensor apparatus is used, then manufacturing may be simpler, but cost-effectiveness and commercial viability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the manufacturing approach by using flexible substrate materials and sensor element configurations that can be produced through cost-effective methods such as printing techniques. This allows for scalable production while maintaining the required measurement capabilities, improving commercial viability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor apparatus is designed with flexible, potentially disposable components that can be manufactured at low cost. This approach enables widespread commercial adoption, particularly in applications like prosthetics and medical devices where cost-effectiveness is crucial for accessibility.
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 comprehensive measurement of pressure and shear forces, improving comfort and safety by accounting for previously unevaluated shear forces, and facilitating the design of user-friendly, cost-effective solutions for applications like prosthetic sockets and footwear.
Implementation Method 1
the flexible means for receiving the pressure component of the force and the shear component of the force
Implementation Method 2
transducer means for producing electrical signals consequent upon movement of the flexible means
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus (2) for sensing and measuring and/or shear components of a force at an interface between two surfaces, which apparatus (2) comprises: (i) at least one flexible means (4) for receiving the pressure and/or shear components of the force; and (ii) transducer means (6) for producing electrical signals consequent upon movement of the flexible means (4) in response to the pressure and/or shear components of the force, and the apparatus (2) being such that: (iii) the flexible means (4) comprises first and second electrode parts (18, 20) which are spaced apart by the flexible means (12); (iv) the first and second electrode parts (18, 20) move solely towards each other as a result of the pressure component of the force being applied to the flexible means (4); and (v) the first and second electrode parts (18, 20) move towards and parallel to each other as a result of the shear component of the force being applied to the flexible means (4).