Polyurethane Foam Accelerometer for Curved Surface Impact Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional accelerometers are limited in their ability to detect impact forces and acceleration on curved surfaces and in applications where size, sensitivity, and scalability are critical, such as in medical and sports fields, particularly for monitoring traumatic brain injuries.
Innovation Solution
A polyurethane foam-based accelerometer with a PCB sensor and conductive polyurethane foam, which allows for adjustable thickness, density, and composition to achieve specific dynamic ranges and responses, using amperometric and cyclic voltammetry for signal detection, and a calibrated mass for accurate force measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional accelerometers are used, then basic acceleration detection is achieved, but sensitivity and scalability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the accelerometer by using polyurethane foam with adjustable thickness, density, and composition. These parameter changes enable the sensor to achieve specific dynamic ranges and responses, improving both sensitivity and scalability for different applications including medical and sports fields.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining polyurethane foam with PCB sensors and conductive materials. This composite structure allows the accelerometer to detect impact forces and acceleration on curved surfaces while maintaining scalability and adaptability for various applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional accelerometers are used, then basic detection is achieved, but detection on curved surfaces is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible polyurethane foam as the sensing element, which can conform to curved surfaces while maintaining its sensing capability. This flexible structure allows the accelerometer to reliably detect acceleration and impact forces on curved surfaces such as helmets and wearable devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent specifically addresses curved surface detection by designing the foam-based accelerometer to accommodate spherical and curved geometries. The flexible foam structure can be shaped to match curved surfaces, enabling accurate detection on helmets, sports equipment, and wearable devices.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If adhesive-based sensors are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but prolonged use without adhesives is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-service attachment methods where the polyurethane foam-based accelerometer can be securely attached to surfaces without adhesives. The flexible foam structure can be mechanically secured or integrated directly into the surface, enabling prolonged use without adhesive degradation or failure.
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 polyurethane foam-based accelerometer provides enhanced sensitivity and scalability, enabling accurate detection of impact forces and acceleration on various surfaces, including helmets and wearable devices, with potential for early detection of traumatic brain injuries and prolonged use without adhesives.
Implementation Method 1
conductive polyurethane foam which allows for adjustable thickness, density, and composition to achieve specific dynamic ranges and responses
Implementation Method 2
using amperometric and cyclic voltammetry for signal detection
Data Source
AI summary
An accelerometer 100 which includes a bracket 110, a pair of electrodes 210/220/230/240/250, a first electrically conductive foam 120, a second electrically conductive foam 130, wherein the first electrically conductive foam and the second electrically conductive foam are inserted between the pair of electrodes and the bracket.