Magnetic Body Sensor with Segmented Optical Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing body sensors, particularly those worn on the wrist or arm, are not suitable for individuals with arm-related issues and can be cumbersome during intense exercises, and one-piece ear-worn devices face limitations in placement, size, and magnetic strength variability.
Innovation Solution
A body sensor comprising two separate parts with magnetic couplings, allowing flexible attachment to various body parts like the ear or nose, featuring a compact design with an optical sensor for heart rate and blood pressure measurement, and wireless communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a one-piece device with magnets is used for ear-worn heart rate monitoring, then the device can be securely attached to the ear, but the device becomes larger and heavier which is problematic for sports activities
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separate parts: a lightweight sensor unit that contacts the ear and a separate magnetic attachment component. This segmentation allows the sensor unit to remain small and lightweight for comfort during sports, while the magnetic attachment provides secure fixation without adding significant weight to the sensor itself.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a one-piece device with fixed magnetic strength is used, then the structure is simple, but the magnetic connection strength cannot be adjusted for different ear sizes or intensity needs
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic attachment system incorporates adjustable magnetic strength through multiple magnet configurations or interchangeable magnetic components. This allows users to adjust the magnetic force to match different ear sizes and activity intensities, transforming a static structure into a dynamic, adaptable system that responds to varying user needs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a one-piece device is used, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the placement of the device is limited and the device becomes larger
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the sensor unit from the magnetic attachment component, the design enables the sensor unit to be compact and adaptable to different body parts (ear, nose, finger, etc.), while the magnetic attachment provides versatile positioning options. This segmentation removes the volume constraints of a one-piece design and allows optimized sizing of each component for its specific function.
4Reliability
If a one-piece device with magnets is used, then the device can be attached to the ear, but there is a risk that the device will stick to hair or other sports equipment or cloths
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic attachment component is extracted as a separate element from the sensor unit. This allows the magnetic function to be isolated and controlled independently, enabling users to attach or detach the magnetic component as needed and reducing the risk of unintended magnetic attraction to hair or equipment, while maintaining secure attachment when properly positioned.
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 provides stable, versatile placement and adjustable magnetic coupling, ensuring secure attachment and effective body activity monitoring without interference during physical activities.
Implementation Method 1
The first magnetic coupling part is provided in connection with the optical sensor such that the first magnetic coupling part provides an effective magnetic coupling with a second magnetic coupling part placed on the other side of the user's body part
Implementation Method 2
The optical sensor is configured to measure body activity, such as heart rate, blood pressure or oxygen saturation by optical measurement
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a body sensor (1) for measuring body activity of a user comprising a sensor part (2) and a separate connecting part (3) for securing the sensor part (21) to other side of a user's body part. The sensor part (2) comprising a housing (20) enclosing components of the sensor part (2) inside the housing (20). The components comprising a circuit board (26), an optical sensor (21) configured to measure body activity by optical measurement, a first magnetic coupling part (22) provided in connection with the optical sensor (21), and one or more other components provided inside the housing (20). The separate connecting part (3) is independent from the sensor part (2) and comprising a second magnetic coupling part (32) configured to provide a magnetic coupling with the first magnetic coupling part (22) via the first surface (20a) of the housing (20).