Load Sensing Surface for Real-Time Context Acquisition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current load sensing technologies are limited in effectively capturing contextual information such as object identification, location, and activity, particularly in dynamic environments, as they rely heavily on location sensing methods like computer vision, which may not provide real-time and accurate data on force distribution and object movement.
Innovation Solution
A system that senses force information at multiple points on a continuous surface, calculates the distribution of force to determine object location, and uses sensors and processors to track changes in force patterns over time, enabling identification of objects, tracking of their movement, and detection of interactions with the surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If computer vision is used to identify location and detect activity, then contextual information can be provided to information processing systems, but real-time accuracy and reliability of force distribution data are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical sensing systems (computer vision) with a mechanical sensing system using load cells embedded in floor tiles. This substitution provides direct mechanical measurement of force distribution, achieving both real-time data capture and high measurement precision simultaneously, thereby resolving the contradiction between information completeness and measurement accuracy.
2Loss of information
If segmented surfaces with load-sensitive tiles are used to identify and track people, then contextual information is captured, but the system complexity and difficulty of implementation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal sensing platform where standardized load cell tiles can be deployed in various configurations for multiple applications including people tracking, weight measurement, and activity detection. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by using a single versatile technology rather than specialized systems for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the sensing surface into modular load cell tiles that can be independently installed and configured. This segmentation allows for flexible deployment scenarios from single-tile to multi-tile arrangements, reducing implementation complexity by enabling scalable, incremental installation rather than requiring complete system deployment at once.
3Measurement precision
If high precision scales are embedded to perform object identification by linking virtual objects with physical items, then object identification accuracy is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs relatively simple load cell tiles rather than expensive high-precision scales, accepting that individual tiles may need replacement or reconfiguration. This approach prioritizes ease of manufacture and deployment over extreme precision, using sufficient rather than excessive measurement capability, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
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
This approach allows for precise tracking of objects and people, including detection of changes in location and activity, providing real-time contextual information that enhances monitoring and security applications by leveraging force data from load-sensitive surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a grid of piezoelectric wires under a carpet has been used to track the movement of people
Implementation Method 2
a center of force of the object on the surface may be computed... a first component of the center of force may be determined by computing a first quotient of a first sum and a total force
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are described for sensing force information at a plurality of points on a continuous surface, and detecting contextual information about an object on the surface based on the distribution of force on the surface. For example, a plurality of sensors may be included below different points on such a substantially continuous surface, where the sensors are operable to sense force information. Then, a processor connected to the sensors may determine a location of the object relative to the surface, based on the force information from the sensors.