Multi-Axis Sensor Circuit Spatial Separation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing multi-axis acceleration sensors face challenges in achieving excellent detection characteristics due to signal interference between closely disposed signal processing circuits for different axes, leading to noise contamination and reduced accuracy in force detection.

Innovation Solution

A sensor device configuration with a base body having recessed sections for each circuit, allowing for maximum separation of first and second circuits processing signals from piezoelectric elements, reducing noise interference and enabling accurate signal processing, and incorporating a lid body to seal and protect the components, which can be stacked with quartz piezoelectric elements for enhanced sensitivity and dynamic range.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If signal processing circuits for multiple axes are disposed close to one another on another substrate, then device integration is improved, but signal interference increases causing noise contamination

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuit arrangementVSAvoidsignal detection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a two-dimensional planar arrangement where circuits are stacked on another substrate to a three-dimensional configuration where circuits are disposed on opposite surfaces of the same substrate. This spatial separation in the third dimension (depth/thickness) effectively reduces signal interference while maintaining integration, as circuits for different axes are physically separated by the substrate thickness rather than being layered closely in two dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If piezoelectric elements for multi-axis detection are disposed on a substrate with processing circuits on another substrate, then multi-axis detection capability is achieved, but signal interference between axes increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-axis detection capabilityVSAvoidsignal interference and noise
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the signal processing circuits for different axes onto separate surfaces of the substrate rather than concentrating them on a single substrate or stacking them closely. This segmentation spatially separates the processing paths for different axes, reducing cross-axis signal interference and noise contamination while preserving multi-axis detection functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 configuration effectively prevents noise interference, allowing for accurate detection of external forces in multiple axes, improving the sensor's detection characteristics and maintaining circuit integrity by protecting against moisture-induced deterioration.

Implementation Method 1

a force detection element disposed in the recessed section and including a first element that outputs a first signal according to an external force in a first direction and a second element that outputs a second signal according to an external force in a second direction different from the first direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS10899022B2Sensor device having a force detection element sandwiched by two sensor signal processing circuits
Publication Date: 2021.01.26 SEIKO EPSON CORP
  • US10899022B2 patent drawing
  • US10899022B2 patent drawing
  • US10899022B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A sensor device includes a base body including a recess, a lid body configured to close an opening of the recess, a force detection element disposed in the recess and including a first element that outputs a first signal according to an external force in a first axis and a second element that stacks on the first element and outputs a second signal according to an external force in a second axis; a first circuit disposed in the recess and configured to process the first signal, and a second circuit disposed in the recess and configured to process the second signal.