Integrated Sensor Device for Occupancy Monitoring Durability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bed and chair occupancy sensors and exit sensors have limited durability, leading to a short service life and significant electronic waste generation, which contributes to environmental pollution and resource depletion.
Innovation Solution
A sensor device with reduced manufacturing costs, improved durability, and a discreet form factor is developed by integrating a sensor element made of quasi-piezoelectric film for detecting micromovements, along with an electronic unit, into a single unit. This device can monitor movement activity and occupancy in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If low-cost occupancy sensors are used to expand accessibility, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but service lifespan becomes short (no more than a year)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sensor element and electronic unit into a single integrated sensor assembly, where the sensor element is disposed within the electronic unit housing. This integration reduces the number of separate components and connections, improving overall durability and service lifespan while maintaining cost-effectiveness through streamlined manufacturing.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional sensor devices are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but durability is limited and electronic waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor element utilizes a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) substrate that provides both structural support and electrical connectivity. This flexible film structure enhances durability by accommodating movements and deformations without breaking, while the integrated design reduces electronic waste through extended service life.
3Ease of manufacture
If sensor element is integrated with electronic unit, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic unit housing serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, houses the circuit board and electronic components, and integrates the sensor element within its structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate housings and mounting structures, simplifying manufacturing while managing integration complexity through design efficiency.
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 sensor device extends its service life, reducing electronic waste and environmental impact, while maintaining real-time monitoring capabilities and improved signal clarity, enhancing both safety and quality of care in healthcare and assisted living settings.
Implementation Method 1
using piezoelectric materials such as PVDF or PZT, the sensor can detect not only occupancy but also micromovements of the heart and breathing
Implementation Method 2
the sensor element comprises cellular a ferro-electret material
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor device (100) for monitoring an occupancy of a resting place by a monitoring subject includes an integrated unit (99) comprising a sensor element (101) for sensing micromovements of the subject when resting in the resting place, and an electronic unit (102) comprising a computing device, a main body (104) wherein the sensor element (101) is disposed in a sensor housing (110) substantially peripheral of the main body (104).