Shear Force Estimation via Off-Axis MEMS Pressure Sensor Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional MEMS barometric pressure sensors can only estimate forces normal to the surface, failing to effectively detect shear forces, which is crucial for robotic arms to properly grasp and manipulate objects without damaging them or causing slippage.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system with an array of MEMS barometric pressure sensors arranged at various angles, including parallel, angled between parallel and perpendicular, and perpendicular to the sensing surface, allowing for the detection of shear forces by translating these forces into normal forces that can be measured.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional MEMS barometric pressure sensors are used, then the sensor system is simple and inexpensive, but it can only estimate forces normal to the surface and cannot detect shear forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by arranging pressure sensors at multiple orientations (parallel, angled, and perpendicular to the sensing surface) rather than using a single conventional sensor. This spatial arrangement in multiple dimensions allows the system to detect shear forces by translating them into normal forces that the MEMS sensors can measure, thereby resolving the limitation of conventional sensors that only detect normal forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the sensing function by dividing the sensor array into multiple groups with different orientations (parallel, angled, and perpendicular sensors). Each segment detects specific force components, and the combined data from all segments enables comprehensive shear force estimation. This segmentation allows the system to maintain simplicity while achieving enhanced measurement precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pressure sensors are arranged at various angles to detect shear forces, then shear force estimation is enabled, but the sensor system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a sensor array where multiple sensors with different orientations work together to perform multiple detection functions. The same MEMS barometric pressure sensor technology is used across all orientations, allowing the system to detect both normal and shear forces using a single sensor type, thereby enhancing adaptability without proportionally increasing 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
Enables accurate estimation and measurement of shear forces, enhancing the robotic arm's ability to grasp and manipulate objects by providing sensitive and durable force detection at a low cost.
Implementation Method 1
MEMS barometric pressure sensors can only estimate a force normal to the surface
Implementation Method 2
allowing for the detection of shear forces by translating these forces into normal forces that can be measured
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a sensor system includes a sensing surface and an array of pressure sensors arranged on the sensing surface. The array of pressure sensors includes at least one pressure sensor is parallel to the sensing surface, at least one pressure sensor is angled between parallel and perpendicular to the sensing surface, and at least one pressure sensor is perpendicular to the sensing surface. The pressure sensors are micro electro mechanical system (MEMS) barometric pressure sensors.