Force Measurement Sensor with Segmented Capacitive Inductive Range

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional force-measuring devices exhibit high accuracy only within a small portion of their total measuring range, failing to provide precise weight changes over a large range and are not versatile enough for various spatial situations.

Innovation Solution

A device comprising a sensor, a force input device that elastically deforms under external force, and a casing, where the sensor detects force through elastic deformation, and includes inductive or capacitive sensing technology with integrated RFID or wireless communication for data transmission, allowing for accurate force measurement across a wide range and compatibility with different setups.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional force-measuring devices are used, then high measuring accuracy is achieved, but only in a small portion of the total measuring range

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasuring accuracyVSAvoidmeasuring range
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The device divides the measuring range into multiple segments using different sensor types. Capacitive sensors handle small force ranges with high precision, while inductive sensors handle larger force ranges. This segmentation allows the system to maintain high measurement accuracy across the entire extended measuring range by selecting the appropriate sensor for each segment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The device integrates multiple sensor types (capacitive and inductive) into a single universal measuring system. This multi-functional approach enables the device to adapt to different measuring requirements and spatial situations, providing both high precision for small ranges and extended range capability through the combination of different sensing technologies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If conventional force-measuring devices are used, then high measuring accuracy is achieved in specific conditions, but the device is not versatile enough for various spatial situations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasuring accuracyVSAvoidcompatibility with different spatial situations
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The device integrates multiple sensor types (capacitive and inductive) into a single universal measuring system. This multi-functional approach enables the device to adapt to different measuring requirements and spatial situations, providing both high precision for small ranges and extended range capability through the combination of different sensing technologies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The device dynamically selects between capacitive and inductive sensing modes based on the measured force magnitude and spatial conditions. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain high measurement accuracy while being versatile enough for various spatial situations, switching between sensor types as needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 precise measurement of weight changes over a large range, enhancing compatibility and automation in applications like shopping trolleys and shelves, achieving high accuracy and modularity in force measurement.

Implementation Method 1

a force input device (104) configured to elastically deform in relation to an external force acting on the device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the sensor may be an inductive sensor, and/or wherein the force input device may be made from an electric conductive material

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInductive sensing: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

The sensor may be a capacitive sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitive sensing: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentEP3569994B1Device for measuring of forces and weighing device
Publication Date: 2022.11.23 DIEBOLD NIXDORF SYST GMBH
  • EP3569994B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1D
  • EP3569994B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2D
  • EP3569994B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3C

AI summary

In various embodiments, a device for measuring forces and a weighing device are provided. A device for measuring forces may comprise: at least one sensor 102, at least one force input device 104 configured to elastically deform in relation to an external force acting on the device 100, and a casing 106 coupled to the sensor 102 and the force input device 104, wherein the sensor 100 is configured such that, when the force is applied to the device 100, the sensor 102 detects the force in relation to the elastic deformation of the force input device 104, and wherein the casing 106 is configured to accommodate the sensor 102 in the casing 106 in at least two different positions.