Stretchable Sensor Substrate for In-Body Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensing devices face challenges in achieving accurate and long-lasting measurements while minimizing user discomfort due to increased sensor size, irritation, and foreign material adsorption, which affects sensing accuracy and lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A sensing device with a flexible substrate and a stretchable substrate design, including a biodegradable sensor guide, where the sensor is partially inserted into the body and the guide is biodegradable, minimizing irritation and foreign material adsorption, and incorporating a signal processing unit and transmission unit connected to the substrate for improved accuracy and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the size of the in-body sensor is increased to increase contact area with body component, then sensing accuracy is improved, but user irritation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible substrate as the base structure for the sensor, allowing it to conform to the body surface without requiring excessive size. This flexibility enables accurate sensing with minimal intrusion, resolving the contradiction between sensing accuracy and user irritation by maintaining close contact through adaptability rather than through increased size.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is divided into distinct functional regions including an electrode region for sensing and a connection terminal region for signal transmission. This segmentation allows the sensing area to be optimized for accuracy while the connection area is minimized to reduce irritation, enabling each region to perform its function efficiently without compromising the other.
2Measurement precision
If foreign materials are adsorbed onto the in-body sensor, then sensing accuracy is lowered and sensor lifetime is shortened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a bioreactive material coating on the electrode that creates a chemically selective environment. This coating allows specific body components to interact with the electrode while preventing adsorption of foreign materials such as proteins. The bioreactive material acts as a protective barrier that maintains sensing accuracy and extends sensor lifetime by preventing fouling from non-target substances.
3Extent of automation
If a hard PCB transmitter is attached to the skin, then signal processing capability is provided, but user comfort is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional hard PCB with a flexible substrate that can be comfortably attached to the skin. This flexible substrate maintains all necessary signal processing capabilities while eliminating the rigidity and discomfort associated with hard circuits. The flexible nature allows it to conform to body contours, providing automated signal processing without compromising user comfort.
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
The solution enhances sensing performance and extends the device's lifespan by reducing foreign material influence and user discomfort, allowing for precise and long-lasting measurements.
Implementation Method 1
an electrical signal generated due to an electrochemical action between the body component and the bioreactive material
Implementation Method 2
the guide is biodegradable, minimizing irritation and foreign material adsorption
Data Source
AI summary
A sensing device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a substrate; a sensor that includes an electrode disposed on the substrate, and a connection terminal disposed on the substrate and connected to the electrode; and a stretchable substrate that is connected to the sensor unit and includes a base and wiring disposed on the base, wherein the connection terminal of the sensor unit is connected to the wiring of the stretchable substrate.