Pulse Wave Sensor Cover Structure for Easier Artery Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pulse wave sensors require precise alignment and pressure application on radial or ulnar arteries for accurate biological signal detection, which can be time-consuming and error-prone.
Innovation Solution
A pulse wave sensor design featuring a flexure element with a cover member having a recess and protrusion, allowing for easier and more reliable contact with the measurement target, even when applied at non-perpendicular angles or positions, by concentrating pressure on the load portion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the flexure element is pressed directly against the skin at the artery position, then the pulse wave detection accuracy is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to the need for precise alignment and pressure control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cover member as an intermediary between the flexure element and the skin. This cover member has a recess portion that receives the flexure element and a protrusion portion that contacts the skin, allowing the user to apply pressure without needing precise alignment. The protrusion portion acts as a mediator that transmits pressure to the flexure element through the recess, simplifying the application process while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover member is segmented into distinct functional portions: a recess portion for receiving the flexure element and a protrusion portion for contacting the skin. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its specific function optimally - the recess protects and positions the sensitive flexure element while the protrusion provides a user-friendly interface for application, resolving the contradiction between precision and ease of use.
2Measurement precision
If the detection element is placed on the first surface of the flexure element, then the detection sensitivity is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to direct contact with skin and external contaminants
Solution Approach 1:
The cover member serves as a protective intermediary between the detection element on the flexure element and the external environment (skin, contaminants, moisture). The recess portion houses the flexure element while the protrusion portion interfaces with the skin, creating a barrier that protects the sensitive detection elements from direct exposure to potentially harmful external factors, thereby maintaining reliability without sacrificing detection sensitivity.
3Measurement precision
If the flexure element is made more flexible to detect minute pressure, then the measurement precision is improved, but the strength deteriorates making it more susceptible to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The cover member provides localized protection to the flexure element, allowing the flexure element to maintain its flexible, sensitive properties where needed while being protected from damage. The recess portion cradles the flexure element, providing structural support and protection without interfering with its flexibility, thus resolving the contradiction between sensitivity and durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover member acts as a protective cushion before the flexure element can be damaged by external forces. By providing this protective layer in advance, the flexure element can be made more sensitive to pressure detection without compromising its strength, as the cover member absorbs or distributes potentially damaging forces.
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
Enhances usability and accuracy by expanding the measurable range of pulse waves, reducing detection time, and minimizing errors, while avoiding skin irritation and material-related issues.
Implementation Method 1
a flexure element (20) having a first surface (20m) on a measurement target side, and a second surface (20n) on the other side; at least one detection element (100 1 , 100 2 , 100 3 , 100 4 ) disposed on the second surface (20n), and configured to detect strain in the flexure element (20) or pressure applied to the flexure element (20)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A pulse wave sensor is a pulse wave sensor to be used in contact with a body of a measurement target. The pulse wave sensor includes a flexure element having a first surface that is on a measurement target side, and a second surface located opposite to the first surface; at least one detection element disposed on the second surface, and configured to detect strain of the flexure element and/or pressure applied to the flexure element; and a cover member mounted or formed on the first surface. The cover member includes a recess opening toward the first surface of the flexure element, and a protrusion having a surface that faces the first surface of the flexure element, the protrusion protruding toward the first surface of the flexure element beyond the recess. A gap is formed between the recess and the first surface of the flexure element, and the pulse wave sensor is configured to detect a pulse wave based on a detection value of the detection element.