Mattress Response Enhancement Layer for Electric Field Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mattress-based detection devices for human or animal bodies are uncomfortable for extended use and impede electric field detection due to their solid construction, which complicates the detection of varying electric fields and reduces signal-to-noise levels.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a response enhancement layer of electrically non-conducting compressible material with conductive particles between the laminated membrane and the upper mattress, allowing electric fields to pass through while enhancing detection sensitivity and comfort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If a solid construction is used for the detection device, then structural stability is improved, but comfort for extended use deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidcomfort for extended use
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mattress is divided into multiple functional layers: a solid base layer for structural stability, a deformable intermediate layer for comfort and signal enhancement, and a detection layer with electrodes. This segmentation allows each layer to fulfill its specific function without compromising the others.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mattress employs composite material construction combining rigid structural elements with deformable foam-like materials. This composite approach enables the device to maintain structural integrity while providing the comfort and deformability needed for extended use and effective detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Ease of operation

If layers of deformable material are added to improve comfort, then comfort for extended use is improved, but electric field detection capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomfort for extended useVSAvoidelectric field detection capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

A deformable intermediate layer with specific electrical properties is introduced between the solid structure and the detection electrodes. This intermediary layer enhances comfort and mechanical response while being engineered to maintain electric field penetration, thus mediating between mechanical and electrical requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The deformable material is designed with porous or foam-like structure that allows electric field penetration. The porous nature provides mechanical compliance for comfort while maintaining sufficient electrical conductivity or permittivity to allow the electric field to pass through effectively for detection purposes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #31Porous materials

3Length of stationary object

If the upper ground plane is removed to extend the electric field, then electric field extension is improved, but signal-to-noise level deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectric field extensionVSAvoidsignal-to-noise level
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical parameters of the mattress layers are carefully controlled and optimized. The deformable material is selected or engineered to have specific permittivity and conductivity values that allow electric field extension while maintaining signal integrity. By adjusting these material parameters, the system achieves extended field penetration without excessive noise.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 solution improves signal strength and signal-to-noise characteristics by allowing electric fields to radiate through the mattress, enhancing the detection of changes in attributes without compromising comfort or introducing noise.

Implementation Method 1

an electric field passes through said upper mattress

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectric field: Electric Field

Implementation Method 2

response enhancement layer of a substantially electrically non-conducting compressible-material containing electrically-conductive-particles

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS11022504B2Detecting changes in attributes of a human or animal body
Publication Date: 2021.06.01 ZEDSEN
  • US11022504B2 patent drawing
  • US11022504B2 patent drawing
  • US11022504B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Attributes of a human or animal body are detected by the generation and detection of an electric field. A laminated membrane, connected to a control circuit, is placed over an electrically conductive ground-plane. An upper-mattress is placed above this for supporting a human or animal body. To improve the response of the detector, a response-enhancement-layer of a substantially electrically non-conducting compressible-material containing electrically-conductive-particles, such as carbon particles, is located between the laminated-membrane and the upper-mattress.