Reversible Sensor Module Submodule Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sensor modules for capturing health-related data require complete removal from the wearer for replacement or repair of submodules, which is inconvenient and can damage the adhesive layer, limiting flexibility and increasing the frequency of adhesive removal.

Innovation Solution

A sensor module with a reversible mechanical connection between submodules, allowing the electronic unit to be removed without detaching the adhesive fastened submodule, using a hook-and-loop fastening system and near-field communication for verification, and a capacitive sensor to ensure correct attachment and data transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of repair

If the entire sensor module is removed from the wearer for replacement or repair of the electronic unit, then the electronic unit can be replaced or repaired, but the adhesive layer must be removed and reattached frequently, reducing adhesive effectiveness and increasing wearer discomfort

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereplacement of electronic unitVSAvoidadhesive layer effectiveness

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of repairVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor module is divided into two separable submodules: a first submodule containing the electronic unit and a second submodule containing the fastening means with adhesive layer. This segmentation allows the electronic unit to be replaced by removing only the first submodule while leaving the second submodule with the adhesive layer attached to the wearer, thereby preserving adhesive effectiveness and reducing wear

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of repair

If the entire sensor module is removed from the wearer for maintenance, then the electronic unit can be accessed, but the fastening means must be removed and reattached, increasing complexity of operation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess to electronic unitVSAvoidfastening and unfastening process

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of repairVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor module is segmented into a first submodule with the electronic unit and a second submodule with the fastening means. This allows users to access the electronic unit by removing only the first submodule while leaving the second submodule attached to the wearer, simplifying the operation and avoiding repeated fastening and unfastening of the entire module

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of repair

If the adhesive layer is removed frequently for module replacement, then the electronic unit can be replaced, but the adhesive effect is reduced and the adhesive layer needs more frequent renewal

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectronic unit replacement frequencyVSAvoidadhesive bonding reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of repairVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the sensor module into two submodules where only the first submodule contains the electronic unit, the invention allows replacement of the electronic unit without removing the adhesive layer on the second submodule. This maintains adhesive bonding reliability and extends the interval between adhesive layer renewals

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 design enhances flexibility and extends the adhesive layer's effectiveness by allowing submodule replacement without removing the entire sensor module, reducing wearer discomfort and extending adhesive life, while ensuring reliable data capture and transmission.

Implementation Method 1

the fastening means comprises an adhesive layer, in particular an adhesive layer which can adhere to the human skin

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Implementation Method 2

the first structure comprises one from the group of hook structure or loop structure and the second structure comprises the other from the group of hook structure or loop structure, which structures form a reversible mechanical connection

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical interlocking: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 3

a capacitive sensor for measuring capacitance values between a capacitor electrode belonging to the capacitive sensor and the wearer's skin that acts as a second electrode

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Implementation Method 4

a near-field communication transmitter for transmitting data, and the first submodule comprises a near-field communication receiver for receiving the data

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20230210404A1Sensor module, care set and use therefor

Publication Date: 2023.07.06 AHEAD CARE GMBH

AI summary

The invention relates to a sensor module (10) comprising a first submodule (101) comprising an electronic unit (105) for measuring and transmitting movement data, and a first structure (103), and a second submodule (201) comprising a fastening means for fastening the second submodule (201) to a wearer, and a second structure (205), wherein the first structure (103) can form a reversible mechanical connection with the second structure (205), with the result that the first submodule (101) and the second submodule (201) are reversibly connected to one another.