Magnetic Elastomer Grip Sensing for Precise Force Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hand-operated devices with ergonomic elastomer grips are not suitable for precise grip force measurement due to reduced sensitivity of conventional sensors, and capacitive or resistive sensors are complex to adjust for different spatial resolutions.
Innovation Solution
A hand-operated device with a hand grip comprising a first layer of elastomeric material with homogeneously dispersed magnetic particles and an array of magnetic sensor elements to measure magnetic properties, allowing for precise grip force distribution analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional pressure sensors are used in ergonomic elastomer grips, then the grip can provide comfort and cushioning, but the sensor sensitivity is considerably reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces magnetic particles as an intermediary layer between the elastomer grip and the magnetic sensor elements. When grip force is applied, the magnetic particles shift position within the elastomer, modulating the magnetic field detected by the sensors. This intermediary mechanism allows the soft elastomer to maintain its cushioning properties while the magnetic particle displacement provides accurate grip force measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical pressure sensors with magnetic sensor elements that detect changes in magnetic field caused by magnetic particle displacement. This substitution eliminates the need for direct mechanical contact between the sensor and the grip surface, allowing the elastomer to remain soft and comfortable while enabling precise force measurement through magnetic field changes.
2Measurement precision
If capacitive or resistive sensors are used for pressure measurement, then absolute pressure measurement is possible, but the system is complex to adjust for different spatial resolutions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables adjustment of spatial resolution by changing the number, density, and distribution of magnetic sensor elements across the grip surface. Unlike capacitive or resistive sensors that require complex circuit redesign, the magnetic sensor array allows straightforward adjustment of measurement resolution simply by modifying the sensor element configuration, making the system highly adaptable to different applications.
3Measurement precision
If magnetic sensor elements are used to measure grip force distribution, then spatial pressure sensing resolution is improved, but the component array complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic sensor array serves multiple functions: it detects grip force magnitude, determines force distribution across the grip surface, identifies grip location, and can potentially detect grip direction. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single sensor array configuration, reducing the need for separate sensor systems and offsetting the inherent complexity of the array with operational versatility.
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
Enables accurate grip force measurement and distribution analysis, providing feedback for user interaction optimization and adaptable operating conditions, while reducing component complexity and enhancing customization.
Implementation Method 1
an array of magnetic sensor elements arranged for measuring magnetic properties of the elastomeric material at different locations of the hand grip
Implementation Method 2
The first layer of elastomeric material with homogeneously dispersed magnetic particles... when a hand of the user grips the hand grip
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4(a)~4(c)
AI summary
A method for monitoring grip strength of and user interactions with a hand-operated device with a hand grip, wherein the hand grip comprises: a first layer of elastomeric material with homogeneously dispersed magnetic particles, and an array of magnetic sensor elements arranged for measuring the magnetic properties in the elastomeric material at different locations of the hand grip; wherein the method comprises the steps of (a.) controlling the array of magnetic sensor elements to measure the magnetic properties of the first layer at different locations of the hand grip, (b.) calculating a distribution of gripping force over the different locations of the hand grip based on the measured magnetic properties.