Wearable Band Elastic Coupling for Constant Physiological Sensor Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for maintaining physiological sensors against subjects often result in inaccurate readings due to improper pressure and positioning, leading to noise in sensor signals and failure to obtain measurements, especially in wearable devices like smartwatches that struggle to maintain consistent pressure and alignment.
Innovation Solution
A wearable band with an adjustable mechanism that uses an elastic coupling and pressure sensors to maintain sensors at a constant pressure and optimal position against the subject's body, utilizing a processing device to detect and adjust pressure ranges and sensor alignment for accurate measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional methods are used to maintain physiological sensors against subjects, then the device structure is simple, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to improper pressure and positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where pressure sensors continuously monitor the contact pressure between the physiological sensor and the subject's body. The processing device receives pressure data and automatically adjusts the band tightness to maintain optimal pressure levels, ensuring accurate measurements without requiring complex manual adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment through automated pressure control. The processing device autonomously regulates the sensor pressure based on real-time feedback from pressure sensors, eliminating the need for constant user intervention or complex mechanical adjustment structures while maintaining measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If adjustable mechanisms are added to maintain constant pressure, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The band structure serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support, enables pressure adjustment, and integrates pressure sensing capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving constant pressure maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the pressure adjustment mechanism and pressure sensing system into an integrated unit controlled by a single processing device. This merging of functions into a unified system minimizes the overall device complexity compared to having separate independent systems for each function.
3Reliability
If pressure sensors and processing devices are integrated, then the reliability of measurements improves, but the weight of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible, thin-film pressure sensors that can be integrated into the wearable band structure. These thin-film sensors minimize additional weight while providing reliable pressure monitoring capabilities to ensure consistent measurements throughout the wearing period.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the band is made adjustable for optimal positioning, then the adaptability to different subjects improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to complex adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an automated electronic control system. The processing device automatically adjusts the band tightness based on pressure sensor feedback, eliminating the need for users to manually manipulate complex adjustment mechanisms while maintaining high adaptability to different subjects.
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 ensures accurate and reliable physiological measurements by maintaining sensors at optimal pressure and position, reducing noise and improving measurement accuracy, even during daily activities and in varying environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor may be pressed against the subject by an elastic coupling mechanism that is attached to the wearable band or a housing.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods are described herein for maintaining a physiological sensor at constant pressure against a subject. A system may include a wearable band that is wearable by a subject, a physiological sensor coupled to the wearable band, a pressure sensor coupled to the wearable band, a processor and a user interface. The physiological sensor may be positioned along an inside surface of the wearable band, embedded in the wearable band, or otherwise positioned in the band to be adjacent to the subject as the subject wears the wearable band. The pressure sensor may directly or indirectly measure a pressure of the physiological sensor against the subject. The processor may generate an alert when a pressure measurement for the physiological sensor against the subject is outside a specified range. The user interface may present the alert to the subject.