Wireless Sensor Power Activation via Body Resistance Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wearable wireless sensor devices face challenges in efficient and non-invasive power management, as traditional portable power sources like batteries and solar cells require frequent recharging, adding cost and bulk, limiting their adoption.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising differential electrodes, leads, and a System on Chip (SoC) that measures resistance differences between electrodes attached to the body to activate a portable power source, enabling self-powering of the device without the need for recharging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional portable power sources (batteries, solar cells) are used, then the device can be powered, but the device becomes bulky and requires frequent recharging
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless sensor device automatically detects body attachment through resistance measurement and activates power from the portable power source without requiring user intervention for charging or power management. The device serves itself by detecting its operational state and enabling power accordingly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses body resistance as a parameter change to trigger power activation. When the device is attached to the body, the resistance value changes, which the SoC detects and uses to enable the portable power source, creating a passive yet effective power management mechanism.
2Duration of action of moving object
If recharging techniques are used to extend battery life, then power duration is improved, but cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device automatically manages its power state by detecting body attachment through resistance measurement. The SoC monitors resistance values and autonomously enables or disables the portable power source based on whether the device is worn, eliminating the need for complex external recharging systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the power activation function from complex recharging systems and implements it through simple resistance-based detection. By separating the power detection mechanism from traditional charging circuits, the system achieves extended power duration with minimal added complexity.
3Extent of automation
If resistance-based activation is implemented, then automatic powering is achieved, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The SoC continuously monitors resistance values between electrodes and uses this feedback to determine when the device is attached to the body. The system adjusts power activation based on the measured resistance, creating a closed-loop control mechanism that automates power management while accounting for measurement variations.
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 solution allows for automatic, cost-effective, and non-invasive powering of wireless sensor devices, eliminating the need for frequent recharging and reducing bulk, thereby enhancing their usability and adoption.
Implementation Method 1
When the at least two electrodes are attached to the body, a difference in resistance is measured between the at least two leads by the SoC
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for powering a wireless sensor device are disclosed. In a first aspect, the wireless sensor device comprises at least two electrodes configured to be attached to a body and at least two leads coupled to the at least two electrodes. The wireless sensor device also includes a system on chip (SoC) coupled to the at least two leads and a portable power source (Vbatt) coupled to the SoC. When the at least two electrodes are attached to the body, a difference in resistance is measured between the at least two leads by the SoC and the difference in resistance is utilized by the SoC to enable the portable power source to activate the wireless sensor device.