Tripod Load Cell for Multi-Occupant Bed Weight Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing weight sensing systems under beds cannot accurately distinguish weight changes between multiple users, particularly in a double bed setup, due to their design limitations and inability to handle high loads and misalignment issues.
Innovation Solution
A weight sensor system featuring a deformable plate with strain gauges mounted on a base in a tripod arrangement, allowing lateral movement and self-centering, along with multiple strain gauges to account for eccentric loads, and a data hub to differentiate weight changes between sides of the bed, enabling independent monitoring of multiple occupants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a simple weight measuring process using weight sensors positioned under the legs of a bed is used, then a single weight reading for the whole bed can be obtained, but weight changes cannot be distinguished between multiple users
Solution Approach 1:
The bed frame is divided into multiple sections with weight sensors positioned at different locations (head, foot, and side rails). This segmentation allows the system to distinguish weight changes on different sides of the bed, enabling separate tracking of multiple users' weights and movements.
2Strength
If a load cell with thick base and central contact knob is used, then high loads can be accommodated, but the device becomes excessively thick
Solution Approach 1:
The load cell design uses a thin base with a strategically positioned raised bump only at the central load contact point, rather than a uniformly thick base. This localized reinforcement provides the necessary strength for high load bearing while keeping the overall device thickness minimal, allowing it to fit under bed frames without excessive profile.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a load cell requires fixing to a platform plate, then structural stability is improved, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load cell is designed with a base that can rest directly on the supporting surface (floor or bed frame) without requiring additional platform plates or complex fastening systems. The base includes features like a recess for receiving the bed leg and positioning elements that enable self-alignment, allowing the device to be installed simply by placing it under the bed and securing the bed leg in position.
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 system effectively measures and distinguishes weight changes of multiple occupants, providing accurate data on weight shifts, breathing, and heart rate, even under high loads and misalignment conditions, enhancing sleep monitoring and weight tracking.
Implementation Method 1
a load cell coupled to the platform to sense a weight applied to the platform, the load cell comprising a deformable plate with one or more strain gauges arranged to provide an electrical signal representing the weight applied to the platform
Data Source
AI summary
A weight sensor may include a weighing platform and a load cell coupled to the platform to sense a weight applied to the platform, the load cell may include a deformable plate with one or more strain gauges arranged to provide an electrical signal representing the weight applied to the platform, and a base supporting the load cell, wherein the deformable plate is movably mounted to the base at only three contact points, the contact points allowing lateral movement of the plate when the plate deforms in response to a weight applied to the platform. The weight sensor makes it possible to monitor the weight and weight shifting of two people sharing the bed. The weight sensor is self-centering when a load is applied off-center to the platform, which is beneficial when used underneath a bed, e.g., under a bed leg or other support member which may not be aligned.