Radar-Based Force Sensing for Multi-Axis Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional force sensors are limited by their sensitivity, reliability, and installation challenges, particularly when measuring forces over large regions or within small structures, and are often restricted to measuring forces along a single axis, requiring multiple sensors to capture varying force directions.
Innovation Solution
Radar-based force sensing systems that utilize a radar field to accurately characterize forces of varying magnitude and direction, even in diverse environments, by embedding sensors in devices like keyboards and tablets, enabling force data to be used for controlling computing devices without the need for extensive hardware or specific environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional force sensors are physically connected to a structure to measure forces, then measurement reliability is improved, but installation complexity and device size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical force sensors with a radar-based sensing system that uses electromagnetic waves to detect surface deformations. The radar sensor (204) transmits radar signals (208) that reflect off the surface (202), and changes in the reflected signals indicate surface deformations caused by applied forces, eliminating the need for physical mechanical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reflective surface (202) as an intermediary between the force application and the radar sensor (204). The surface deforms in response to applied forces and modulates the radar signals accordingly, allowing the radar system to indirectly measure forces without direct mechanical contact with the force application point.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple conventional force sensors are used to measure forces in different directions, then measurement versatility is improved, but system size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The radar-based force sensing system provides multi-directional force measurement capability using a single sensor (204). By analyzing surface deformations from different angles and positions, the system can determine forces applied in various directions, replacing the need for multiple conventional force sensors oriented in different directions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional force measurement (single axis) to three-dimensional force characterization by detecting surface deformations in multiple dimensions. The radar system captures spatial information about surface deformations, enabling determination of force vectors in three-dimensional space from a single sensing location.
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 precise measurement and control of complex forces, reducing the complexity and size of force-sensing systems while providing long-term reliability and high sensitivity, allowing for versatile applications across various devices and environments.
Implementation Method 1
A radar-based force-sensing system may include an antenna configured to provide radar signals
Implementation Method 2
receive radar signals reflected from a reflective surface
Implementation Method 3
detect a deformation on the reflective surface based on the radar signals
Data Source
AI summary
This document describes techniques using, and devices embodying, radar-based force sensing. These techniques and devices can enable a great breadth of forces to be measured. Furthermore, radar-based force sensing enables those forces to use, control, and interact with devices.