Optical Force Estimation Using Deformable Cover Reflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical devices struggle to measure contact force non-invasively and accurately using light-based techniques, particularly for applications like wearable devices that require compact and efficient force estimation.
Innovation Solution
An optical-based force estimation apparatus and method using an optical sensor with a light source, detector, and circuit unit to measure deformation based on optical signals, enabling contact force estimation through light reflection and deformation analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If direct contact force measurement methods are used, then measurement accuracy is improved, but invasiveness and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical contact force measurement with an optical measurement system. A light source emits light onto the cover, and a detector measures the reflected or transmitted light. When force is applied to the cover, it deforms, changing the optical path or reflection characteristics, which are then detected and converted to force measurements. This substitutes mechanical sensing with optical sensing, achieving non-invasive measurement while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary system between the force application and measurement. The cover itself acts as an optical element whose deformation under force modulates light properties. This intermediary optical mechanism allows indirect measurement of force through light interaction, avoiding direct mechanical contact sensors that would require invasive installation.
2Reliability
If traditional force sensors are used, then measurement reliability is improved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical force sensors with a simpler optical system consisting of a light source and detector. The optical components can be integrated into the cover structure itself, reducing the need for separate sensor assemblies, wiring, and mechanical mounting structures. This substitution maintains measurement reliability while significantly reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover serves multiple functions: it protects the internal components, provides the user interface for force application, and acts as the sensing element itself through its optical properties. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate protective housings and sensor components, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Volume of moving object
If compact optical sensing is implemented, then device portability is improved, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the optical sensing components within the existing device structure. The light source and detector are positioned to utilize the cover's own structure as part of the optical path, nesting the sensing function within the protective cover rather than adding external sensor assemblies. This nested integration maintains compact device size while preserving measurement precision through careful optical design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the third dimension (depth/thickness of the cover) as part of the optical measurement path. By measuring optical properties through or along the thickness of the cover, the system achieves accurate force measurements without requiring large lateral dimensions, thus maintaining device compactness while preserving precision.
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
Accurately estimates contact force and blood pressure by measuring optical signals, providing a non-invasive and efficient solution for wearable devices and medical applications.
Implementation Method 1
a light source configured to emit light onto a reflector, a detector configured to detect light reflected from the reflector
Implementation Method 2
obtain a degree of deformation of the support part, which is deformed by a pressing force of the object on the cover, based on an intensity of an optical signal
Data Source
AI summary
Provided i an apparatus configured to estimate an optical-based force, the apparatus including a main body, a cover disposed at a first side of the main body and configured to contact an object, a support part connected to two sides of the cover, supporting the cover, and protruding toward an inside of the main body, and an optical sensor disposed on the support part, the optical sensor including a light source configured to emit light onto a reflector, a detector configured to detect light reflected from the reflector, and a circuit unit configured to estimate a contact force of the object based on the detected light.