Quadrant Sensor Layout for Temperature-Stable Multi-Axis Force Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing force sensors, such as optical force sensors, are susceptible to temperature changes due to differences in thermal expansion coefficients between components, leading to inaccurate force detection.
Innovation Solution
A force sensor design with a base unit, displacement unit, and displacement sensor pairs arranged in specific quadrants to minimize the impact of temperature changes, allowing for accurate detection of multi-axis forces and moments by using optical, magnetic, or capacitance displacement detection methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional optical force sensor design is used, then multi-axis force detection capability is achieved, but temperature sensitivity increases due to differential thermal expansion between components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by strategically positioning displacement sensors in specific quadrants rather than symmetrically. The first displacement sensor pair is positioned in two diagonally opposite quadrants, and the second displacement sensor pair is positioned in the other two diagonally opposite quadrants. This asymmetric arrangement allows differential measurement that cancels out thermal expansion effects while maintaining force detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the sensor system into multiple independent displacement sensor pairs, each detecting displacement in specific directions. By dividing the detection function across multiple sensor pairs positioned in different quadrants, the system can separately measure forces in different axes and moments, while the differential measurement approach eliminates thermal expansion interference.
2Measurement precision
If multiple displacement sensors are added to detect multi-axis forces and moments, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves multi-functionality by using the same type of displacement sensor for multiple detection purposes. The first displacement sensor pair detects forces in one axis direction, the second displacement sensor pair detects forces in another axis direction, and together they can also detect moments. This universal use of displacement sensors reduces device complexity compared to using different sensor types for different measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the spatial dimension by positioning sensors in different quadrants of the measurement plane. By arranging sensors in two dimensions (different quadrants) rather than stacking them in one dimension, the system achieves multi-axis detection capability while maintaining a compact planar structure, reducing overall device complexity.
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 sensor provides accurate and independent detection of external forces and thermal expansion components, reducing size and cost while enabling high-density component mounting.
Implementation Method 1
using optical, magnetic, or capacitance displacement detection methods
Implementation Method 2
using optical, magnetic, or capacitance displacement detection methods
Implementation Method 3
using optical, magnetic, or capacitance displacement detection methods
Implementation Method 4
The elastic support unit 3 is designed so as to have high elasticity so that it is easy to deform
Data Source
AI summary
A force sensor that quantitatively detects an external force. The force sensor comprises a base unit, a displacement unit displacing by an external force, a first displacement sensor pair including two sets of sensors detecting a relative displacement between the base unit and the displacement unit in a first direction, and a second displacement sensor pair including two sets of sensors detecting a relative displacement between the base unit and the displacement unit in a second direction. Among four quadrants divided by two straight lines along each of the first direction and the second direction wherein, the straight lines passing through a midpoint of the two sets of sensors composing the first displacement sensor pair, the two sets of sensors composing the second displacement sensor pair are respectively disposed in two quadrants in which the two sets of sensors composing the first displacement sensor pair are respectively disposed.