Printed Stretch Sensor Using Conductive Ink for 2D Deformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current stretch sensors are limited to one-dimensional stretching and require labor-intensive manufacturing methods, lacking the ability to effectively measure two-dimensional deformation while maintaining conductivity and elasticity.
Innovation Solution
A patterned article comprising a deformable nonconductive substrate with an imagewise pattern of conductive stretchable ink, connected to an external circuit that measures electrical resistance to determine deformation, utilizing a fluoroelastomer-based ink with specific conductivity and elasticity properties for two-dimensional stretching applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If stretch sensors are woven or knitted into fabric to achieve multiple degrees of freedom, then two-dimensional stretching capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity and labor intensity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical weaving/knitting processes with a printing process. Conductive ink is printed directly onto elastic substrate in desired patterns, eliminating the need for complex fabric construction while achieving the same stretch sensing functionality in two dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the manufacturing approach from mechanical assembly (weaving/knitting) to material deposition (printing). This parameter change in the manufacturing process simplifies production while maintaining the ability to achieve two-dimensional stretching capability through pattern design on the substrate
2Reliability
If conductive elastomers are used to maintain conductivity during deformation, then electrical conductivity is improved, but the ability to accurately measure deformation decreases due to conductivity loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of conductivity loss during stretching into a useful measurement signal. Instead of trying to maintain constant conductivity, the invention measures the change in conductivity as it occurs, transforming the problem into the solution for deformation detection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the change in electrical resistance caused by deformation is continuously measured and used to determine the degree of stretch. The external circuit monitors resistance changes and provides feedback about the deformation state, enabling accurate measurement
3Ease of manufacture
If stretch sensors are glued onto elastic surfaces to simplify manufacturing, then ease of manufacture is improved, but range of motion is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the conductive sensing material with the elastic substrate through direct printing. The conductive ink becomes an integral part of the substrate surface, allowing the sensor to move with the substrate without the restrictions of adhesive bonding, thereby achieving both manufacturing simplicity and full range of motion
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 high-range motion with simple manufacturing and accurate measurement of deformation across two axes, maintaining conductivity and elasticity, suitable for applications like pressure-sensitive touch sensors and weighing devices.
Implementation Method 1
One notable feature of conductive elastomers is that they change conductivity as they are stretched. By measuring the electrical resistance through such a material, one can calculate the degree of stretch.
Implementation Method 2
a stretch sensor which stretches in two dimension (i.e., along two axes) that can be prepared by printing a conductive ink in an imagewise pattern onto a deformable nonconductive substrate in such a way that both materials can stretch and return back to their original shape
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a patterned article comprising: (1) a deformable nonconductive substrate; (2) an imagewise pattern thereon of a conductive stretchable ink; and (3) an external circuit connecting the imagewise pattern, the external circuit being capable of measuring the electrical resistance across regions of the deformable nonconductive substrate and determining the degree of deformation thereof.