Resistance Measurement Array Node Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing resistance measurement arrays face challenges in achieving high spatial resolution and scanning frequency while maintaining precision, often compromising on pressure resolution due to discharge errors and increased circuit complexity.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize a circuit with variable-resistance areas defined by nodes between input and output electrodes, where a driving voltage is applied to select nodes, and the output current is converted to voltage using a transimpedance amplifier or integrator, isolating the selected node from impedance effects of unselected nodes by grounding them, allowing for precise resistance measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If discharging resistances along every input electrode is used to increase discharging speed, then scanning frequency is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to resistance reading errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the electrode array into independently controllable groups, allowing selective activation of specific input and output electrodes. This segmentation enables the system to measure resistance at specific sensor intersections without discharging entire electrode lines, thereby avoiding the precision errors that would result from such discharge while still achieving rapid scanning through targeted electrode activation sequences.
2Device complexity
If multiplexing with single input and output electrodes is used to isolate individual sensors, then circuit complexity is reduced, but scanning frequency is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic electrode selection where multiple input and output electrodes are actively engaged simultaneously rather than using fixed single-electrode multiplexing. The system dynamically activates specific combinations of input and output electrodes based on which sensors need measurement, allowing parallel measurement capability while maintaining manageable circuit complexity through controlled electrode engagement sequences.
3Reliability
If comparator amplifier with threshold voltage is used to filter low signals, then noise is reduced, but pressure resolution is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameters (voltage levels, current measurements) at the sensor intersections to operate in a regime where measurements can be made directly without threshold-based filtering. By optimizing the measurement parameters and using differential measurement techniques, the system achieves both noise rejection and preservation of low-pressure signal information, eliminating the need for comparator-based signal filtering that would discard relevant data.
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 approach enhances measurement resolution and accuracy by isolating the selected node from impedance effects, enabling higher scanning frequencies and reduced circuit complexity, thus improving the overall precision of pressure distribution measurement.
Implementation Method 1
The output current is converted to an output voltage by a transimpedance amplifier, an integrator and control circuit or other current-to-voltage converter circuit
Implementation Method 2
A driving voltage is applied to one of the input electrodes. The driving voltage passes through the node, changing the current of the driving voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for measuring resistance over an array. The array includes at least three electrodes. Nodes at each intersection between input electrodes and output electrodes have variable resistance. A driving voltage is applied to a selected input electrode and an output current is received at a selected output electrode. A selected node is at the intersection of the two selected electrodes and includes an electrical component with a resistive property. Remaining electrodes are connected with a ground for isolating the selected node from the effects of changes in impedance of the remaining nodes. The driving voltage is converted to an output current by resistance at the selected node. The output current is converted to an output voltage with a current-to-voltage converter circuit for measuring the resistance of the electrical component. The nodes may be measured as the selected node in sequential or non-sequential patterns.