Integrated PCB Force Gauges for Slim Wearable Fit Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wearable devices face challenges in determining force applied to their components due to limited space, which hinders slim form factors and functionality such as fit assessment and grip strength detection.
Innovation Solution
Integrating force gauges into the flexible printed circuit board (PCB) or housing of wearable devices, utilizing strain and pressure gauges whose electrical properties change with deflection or pressure, enabling fit detection and grip strength sensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If discrete force sensing components are used, then force detection capability is achieved, but device space is consumed and slim form factor is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the force sensing function with the existing flexible PCB structure by integrating strain gauges into the PCB layers. This merging eliminates the need for separate discrete force sensing components, thereby achieving force detection while preserving the device's slim form factor and minimizing additional space consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible PCB serves multiple functions: it acts as both the structural circuit board and the force sensing element. By making the PCB multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for dedicated discrete force sensing components, thus achieving force detection capability without compromising the device's compact design and slim profile.
2Volume of moving object
If force gauges are integrated into PCB or housing, then space is freed for slim form factor, but integration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The force gauges are merged with the flexible PCB structure, where strain-sensitive conductive traces are formed directly within the PCB layers during manufacturing. This integration approach consolidates multiple functions into a single component structure, freeing up device space while managing complexity through unified design rather than separate assemblies.
3Adaptability or versatility
If strain gauges are used on flexible PCB, then fit detection is enabled, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fit assessment methods with electrical measurement of strain gauge resistance changes. As the PCB deforms to accommodate different finger sizes, the strain gauges experience corresponding resistance changes that are electronically measured and converted into fit information, enabling precise fit detection through electrical rather than mechanical means.
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 integration frees up space, allowing for slim form factors and enhances functionality by enabling accurate force detection and user input sensing.
Implementation Method 1
The force gauges may include strain gauges whose electrical properties (e.g., resistance, capacitance) change with the deflection or deformation of the PCB
Implementation Method 2
pressure gauges whose electrical properties (e.g., resistance, capacitance) change with the pressure applied to the sensors
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices for operating a wearable device are described. A wearable device may include a one or more force gauges that are integrated with a printed circuit board (PCB) of the wearable device, with an external housing component of the wearable device, with an internal housing component of the wearable device, or any combination thereof. The one or more force gauges may be configured to measure or estimate a force exerted on various portions of the wearable device.