Glove Sensor Force Inference for Non-Inclusive Regions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sensor systems inaccurately measure forces applied to non-inclusive regions of gloves due to the lack of sensors in these areas, leading to inaccuracies in computing resultant pressures, which can result in discomfort, injury, and inefficient task performance.

Innovation Solution

A sensor system that determines the activation area and force distribution of non-inclusive regions by using a processor to calculate corresponding force measurements based on the activation area and force distribution, improving the accuracy of pressure measurements by localizing non-inclusive forces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If sensors are placed only on inclusive regions of the glove, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to inability to detect forces on non-inclusive regions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveforce measurement accuracyVSAvoidsensor system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses sensors placed on inclusive regions as intermediaries to indirectly detect and infer forces applied to non-inclusive regions. By measuring forces on adjacent sensor-equipped areas and using computational algorithms, the system estimates forces on regions without direct sensor coverage, thus achieving comprehensive force measurement without placing sensors everywhere.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical approach of directly placing sensors on all regions with a computational method. Instead of mechanically installing sensors on non-inclusive regions, the system uses algorithms to calculate and infer forces on those regions based on measurements from inclusive regions, substituting physical sensor placement with computational analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If the complete sensor area is used to compute resultant force, then device complexity remains low, but measurement precision deteriorates due to inclusion of non-inclusive regions in calculations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresultant force accuracyVSAvoidcalculation method complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the glove surface into inclusive regions (with sensors) and non-inclusive regions (without sensors). By dividing the measurement area and treating each segment differently, the system can accurately compute forces on non-inclusive regions using sensor data from inclusive regions, rather than treating the entire sensor area uniformly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different measurement and calculation methods to different regions of the glove. Inclusive regions use direct sensor measurements, while non-inclusive regions use computational inference based on adjacent sensor data. This localized approach optimizes measurement accuracy for each region's specific characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Productivity

If forces on non-inclusive regions are not accounted for, then device complexity remains low, but productivity deteriorates due to discomfort and injury from inaccurate pressure management

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetask performance efficiencyVSAvoidforce detection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback system that continuously monitors forces on both inclusive and non-inclusive regions and uses this information to provide real-time guidance on hand positioning and orientation. This feedback loop enables operators to adjust their technique to distribute forces more evenly, preventing discomfort and injury while maintaining productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11627914B2Pressure management methods for determining non-inclusive forces and apparatuses incorporating the same
Publication Date: 2023.04.18 TOYOTA MOTOR ENG & MFG NORTH AMERICA INC
  • US11627914B2 patent drawing
  • US11627914B2 patent drawing
  • US11627914B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method includes determining that a portion of a force applied to a sensor system was applied to a non-inclusive region of the sensor system. An activation area of the non-inclusive region may be determined. A force distribution of the non-inclusive region may be determined. A corresponding force measurement of the non-inclusive region based on the activation area and the force distribution may be calculated.