ГЕРМЕТИЗИРОВАННЫЙ ДИНАМОМЕТРИЧЕСКИЙ ЭЛЕМЕНТ

Изобретение относится к измерительной технике и может быть использовано для измерения механической нагрузки и силы. Устройство содержит тело с базовым концом, воспринимающую часть для восприятия нагрузки или силы и по меньшей мере две балки, соединяющих базовый конец и воспринимающую часть. По меньшей мере одна из указанных балок образует рычаг, соединяющий воспринимающую часть и гибкую стенку чувствительной камеры, расположенной на базовом конце. Гибкая стенка способна деформироваться в результате смещения воспринимающей части под действием указанного рычага, а чувствительные средства способны измерять деформацию гибкой стенки или напряжение в гибкой стенке. Технический результат заключается в создании высокоточных динамометрических элементов, на которых снижено влияние температурных воздействий производственной среды. 14 з.п. ф-лы, 24 ил.

ДАТЧИК ПОДЪЕМНОЙ СИЛЫ ЛЕТАТЕЛЬНОГО АППАРАТА

Группа изобретений относится к датчикам подъемной силы летательного аппарата и способу определения доступной подъемной силы. Датчик подъемной силы в одном варианте содержит флюгерный датчик на передней кромке крыла, привод, связанный с флюгерным датчиком, LC-цепь, расположенные определенным образом, процессор. Датчик подъемной силы во втором варианте содержит флюгерный датчик, компрессор, связанный с флюгерным датчиком, LC-цепь, процессор. LC-цепь содержит индукционную катушку и осциллятор. Для определения доступной подъемной силы измеряют изменение частоты колебаний LC-цепи, вызванное изменением положения привода, связанного с флюгерным датчиком. Обеспечивается повышение надежности и чувствительности датчика подъемной силы. 3 н. и 16 з.п. ф-лы, 11 ил.

SENSORVORRICHTUNG

Sensormatte

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Sensormatte, die einen Berührungssensor umfasst.

Probensammler mit integriertem Kraftmesser

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft einen Probensammler mit einem integrierten Kraftmesser, wobei der Probensammler einen Probennahmekopf mit einem Wischprobennehmer und ein Griffstück aufweist, und wobei ein Kraftmesser zwischen dem Wischprobennehmer und dem Griffstück angeordnet ist. Der Kraftmesser ist ausgestaltet um eine Anpresskraft zu messen, mit der ein Bediener den Wischprobennehmer über eine Oberfläche eines Untersuchungsobjektes führt.

Prüfanordnung zur Dehnungs- und Körperschallmessung eines Prüfkörpers

Sensoren zur Zustandsüberwachung von Maschinen und Prüfgegenständen sind weit verbreitet. Es wird eine Prüfanordnung 1 zur Prüfung eines Prüfkörpers 2 vorgeschlagen, mit einer Sensoreinrichtung 3 zur Bereitstellung von Sensordaten, wobei die Sensoreinrichtung 3 mindestens einen Sensor 5 zum Anbringen auf der Oberfläche 11 des Prüfkörpers 2 und zur Erzeugung von mindestens einem Sensorsignal umfasst, wobei der Sensor 5 zwei Elektroden 7a und 7b und ein Dielektrikum 8 aufweist und wobei das Dielektrikum 8 zwischen den zwei Elektroden 7a und 7b angeordnet ist, so dass der Sensor 5 einen Kondensator 9 mit einer Kapazität bildet, wobei das Sensorsignal abhängig von der Kapazität ist und mindestens einen Teil der Sensordaten bildet, und mit einer Auswerteinrichtung 4 zur Auswertung der Sensordaten, wobei die Auswerteeinrichtung 4 ausgebildet ist, auf Basis der Sensordaten eine Dehnung des Prüfkörpers 2 und eine Körperschwingung des Prüfkörpers 2 zu bestimmen.

Kraftsensor und Verfahren zu seiner Anwendung

Kraftsensor (1) zum Erfassen einer Zug- und/oder Druckkraft, insbesondere ein induktiver Kraftsensor, der die folgenden Merkmale aufweist: a. einen ringförmigen Spulenkern (10) mit einem Luftspalt (20), der aus einem elastischen und magnetisierbaren Material besteht, b. eine Spule (30) mit einer Mehrzahl von Wicklungen, die nahe dem Luftspalt (20) des Spulenkerns (10) angeordnet ist, und c. mindestens zwei Befestigungspunkte (12) am ringförmigen Spulenkern, an denen Druck- oder Zugelemente befestigbar sind, so dass eine Spaltbreite des Luftspalts (20) durch die Druck- oder Zugelemente veränderbar ist.

Measuring load on a spring

The displacement of a spring 6 or load applied to spring 6 is sensed by an electric circuit 7 measuring a change in inductance L. The electric circuit 7 comprises a Colpitts oscillator circuit. Pulses produced at a resonant frequency are counted as an indication of the spring's 6 inductance (fig 8). Spring 6 can comprise a helical, coaxial double (21, 22, fig. 5), flat or coach spring (28, 29, fig. 6). Embodiments of the invention include sensing the weight of someone on a trampoline (fig.8) or the height a person jumps (fig. 7), the load on a spring balance (50, fig, 13) or strain gauge, the direction a platform (54, fig. 15) or joystick (62, fig 16) moves, the load a crane lifts (fig. 14) or the actions of a punch ball (34, fig. 9) or punch bag (37, fig. 9).

Displacement sensing apparatus and methods

The invention is for sensing a change in separation between a first element and a second element along a displacement direction. The sensor comprises a reference electrode mounted to the second element in the form of a conductive trace on a surface of the second element facing the first element. A deformable electrode, e.g. a conductive elastomeric material, is arranged between the first element and the second element so as to overlie the reference electrode. The deformable electrode has a contact surface facing the reference electrode and insulated from it. At least part of the contact surface is inclined relative to an opposing surface of the reference electrode such that when the deformable electrode is compressed along the displacement direction there is a reduction in volume between the contact surface and the opposing surface of the reference electrode, thus changing the capacitive coupling between them. The sensor further comprises a controller element configured to measure a characteristic ...

ELECTROMAGNETIC POSITION TRANSDUCERS

... 1511229 Measuring voltage LUCAS INDUSTRIES Ltd 6 May 1975 [11 May 1974] 20941/74 Heading G1U In an arrangement where the position of an element varies the coupling between the windings 12a, 12b of a transformer 12, an A.C. source is coupled thereto by a coupling transformer 11 and the variable transformer 12 output is connected in a closed series circuit with the primary 15b of an output transformer 15 and the secondary 16a of a feedback transformer 16. The output transformer secondary 15a feeds a phase sensitive rectifier whose output is integrated 17 and applied to a variable gain amplifier 18, to control the output thereof which is derived from the A.C. source 10 and used to drive the primary 16b of the feedback transformer. At balance, the feedback voltage cancels the voltage from the variable transformer and the phase sensitive rectifier output is zero. The feedback transformer input winding 16b is energized by the output of the variable gain amplifier via a difference amplifier 19 ...

MEASURING THE AXIAL STRESS APPLIED TO A FERROMAGNETIC BODY

Sensor including electrical transmission-line parameter that changes responsive to vehicular load

Sensor including electrical transmission-line parameter that changes responsive to vehicular load

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MEASURING MOVING VEHICLE INFORMATION USING ELECTRICAL TIME DOMAIN REFLECTOMETRY

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MEASURING MOVING VEHICLE INFORMATION USING ELECTRICAL TIME DOMAIN REFLECTOMETRY

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MEASURING MOVING VEHICLE INFORMATION USING ELECTRICAL TIME DOMAIN REFLECTOMETRY

Sensor including electrical transmission-line parameter that changes responsive to vehicular load

Sensor device

Sensorvorrichtung (1) umfassend mindestens ein erstes Substrat (3), einen kapazitiven Sensor (4) zur Erfassung einer Annäherung eines Objekts, einen piezoelektrischen Sensor (5) zur Erfassung eines Druckes, wobei der kapazitive Sensor (4) auf einer ersten Seite des ersten Substrates (3) angeordnet ist und der piezoelektrische Sensor (5) auf einer zweiten Seite des ersten Substrates (3) angeordnet ist, wobei die zweite Seite der ersten Seite gegenüberliegt, oder wobei der kapazitive Sensor (4) und der piezoelektrische Sensor (5) auf derselben Seite des Substrates (3) angeordnet sind.

PRESSURE CAPSULE WITH POSITION INDICATOR AND ASSOCIATED ONE VERWENDUNGSUND MANUFACTURING PROCESS

MORE KRAFTFUEHLER, IN PARTICULAR TO MEASURING THE TRACTION POWER OF A MOTOR VEHICLE.

SEALS LOAD CELL

A sensor arrangement for measuring moisture and the presence of a person on a base

Sensor arrangement and method for monitoring a person with a sensor arrangement, which comprises measuring electronics and a sensor structure (100) that can be fitted onto a base. The sensor structure (100) comprises at least one sensor, and the arrangement is adapted to determine, by means of the data measured by the measuring electronics and the sensor, a change in the moisture of the base and the presence of a person on the base.

Trailer coupling comprising a sensor

The invention relates to a trailer coupling for a motor vehicle for attaching a trailer or for supporting a load carrier, comprising a coupling arm (11-311) provided for coupling a coupling piece (17) of the trailer or load carrier, and at least one sensor (60, 360) arranged on the coupling arm (11-311) for detecting a deformation of the coupling arm (11-311) caused by a load on the coupling arm (11-311). For the trailer coupling, at least one recess (40, 41; 340, 341) is provided on an outer circumferential contour (50) of the coupling arm (11-311), in which or on which recess the at least one sensor (60, 360) is arranged or held.

DUAL RANGE FORCE TRANSDUCER

DUAL RANGE FORCE TRANSDUCER A force transducer producing two output signals having different proportionalities to the magnitude of a force applied to a force receiving platform cantilevered from a base through a C-shaped flexure producing a displacement of the platform proportional to the magnitude of the applied force, a first LVDT (Linear Voltage Differential Transformer) having a movable armature directly connected to the force receiving platform generating a first output signal proportional to the displacement of the force receiving platform and a second LVDT having a movable armature connected to the force receiving platform through a motion multiplying linkage generating a second output signal having a different proportionality to the displacement of the force receiving platform.

MEASURING STRAIN IN A STRUCTURE (BRIDGE) WITH A (TEMPERATURE COMPENSATED) ELECTROMAGNETIC RESONATOR (MICROWAVE CAVITY)

The system (10) comprises a sensor (18) 90x90x90x30 mm as an electromagnetic microwave cavity (20) with a coupler (22) with a wire (40) and an antenna (42). Cavity (20) produces a response signal (26) in response to an interrogation signal (24) from interrogator (16). Sensor (18) is coupled to a structure (14) to allow a strain to alter the resonance properties. 3.6 GHz is used with a detection of a 2.5 kHz change. If not temperature via strain is detected a mechanical amplifier is used with cavity (20) for temperature compensation. Continuous or intermittent narrowband signals are used as interrogation signals (24). Used with bridges for structural health monitoring. Also for aircrafts, dams, buildings, vehicles.

FLEXIBLE CIRCUIT WITH LOCATION AND FORCE-SENSOR COILS

A flexible circuit that is substantially planar may be assembled into an electrophysiologic catheter. The flexible circuit may include various location sensing portions and force sensing portions. The flexible circuit may be deformed in a manner that improves the catheter's functionality concerning force feedback and location feedback, and then further deformed to be assembled into a small volume of the catheter.

DISPLACEMENT SENSOR ASSEMBLY

Disclosed is a sensor assembly comprising: a first mounting device for mounting the sensor assembly to a first fixation part; a second mounting device for mounting the sensor assembly to a second fixation part, the second fixation part being displaceable relative to the first fixation part; and a sensor device arranged in a sensor cavity for provision of a sensor signal, the sensor device comprising a first attachment part attached to the first mounting device, a second attachment part attached to the second mounting device, and a sensing part, the sensing part being arranged between the first attachment part and the second attachment part.

MAGNETIC FORCE SENSOR AND PRODUCTION THEREOF

The invention relates to a magnetic force sensor (100), having at least one conducting track (111, 211) of soft magnetic material, wherein the at least one conducting track (111, 211) has at least one interruption (130) having a distance (A), wherein the force sensor (100) is arranged on a substrate, in particular on a component (1, 2) to be monitored, and a change in the distance (A) or rather a change in the magnetic flux in the at least one magnetic conducting track (111, 211) is monitored.

VEHICLE TYRE PRESSURE CHECKING

A sensor array for checking vehicle tyre pressure comprises two sets of sensor members. The first set is formed by slits cut into a plate of metal to form first fingers connected in cantilevered fashion to a first base portion, which extend in the direction of intended vehicle movement to free ends. The second set is formed by slits cut into a plate of metal to form second fingers connected in cantilevered fashion to a second base portion, which extend in the reverse of the direction of intended vehicle movement to free ends. The fingers of the two sets are aligned and the free ends are closely adjacent. Each finger is provided with a load sensing system which provides an indication of the load on the finger as the tyre moves over the finger. Loads are applied to different positions along the fingers as the tyre moves over the array.

Digital Transducer System

Einrichtung für Kraft- oder Längenmessungen mittels einer Induktions-Messdose.

Vorrichtung zum elektrischen Messen des Verlaufes von Zug- und Druckkräften

Dynamomètre à réactance variable.

Verfahren und Vorrichtung zur mechanisch-elektrischen Messung von Kräften mit direktem Digitalresultat

Verfahren zum elektrischen Messen der auf eine Längenänderung umgesetzten Änderung einer physikalischen Grösse

Kraftmessdose

Messeinrichtung zur Ermittlung von Prüfkräften

Instrument de mesure de forces

Device for measuring a generalised force

The device comprises two rigid plates (1, 2) which are parallel and joined together by springs. This device furthermore comprises six inductive sensors (4) arranged along axes (4a) which are not parallel to each other and not parallel to the plates (1, 2), each for measuring the linear displacement, along one of the six degrees of freedom, of one plate (2) with respect to the other (1). Each sensor (4), which comprises windings (5, 6, 7) housed in a support (4b) fixed to the plate (2) and a ferromagnetic core (9) fixed to the plate (1), is sensitive only to the component of the displacement along its respective axis (4a). This device may be used in a vector accelerometer. ...

A DEVICE FOR CONVERTING MECHANICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY.

Pressure measuring device recording number of weapon shots - has membrane disc supported by spring bellows cooperating with inductive displacement sensor

The device uses a measuring membrane (11) with a disc (12) supported from a cylindrical sleeve (13) via a spring bellows (14). The latter has at least 2 parallel annular spring walls (17) in a zig-zag configuration the displacement of the membrane (11) detected via an inductive sensor (26,27) comprising an induction coil and a relatively sliding magnetic core (27) attached to the membrane (11). Pref. the disc (12), the spring bellows (14) and the cylindrical sleeve (13) are formed in one piece, with an overload ring (20) acting between the membrane disc (12) and the support flange (18) for the sleeve (13) to prevent mechanical damage due to a pressure overload. USE - For measuring weapon firing force and simultaneously recording number of shots.

Force sensor, in particular for an key and timing system of swimmers.

L’invention se rapporte à un capteur de force (CP), comprenant: – une première partie (PA1) comportant une bobine de détection (BN) – une deuxième partie (PA2) positionnée en vis-à-vis de la première partie (PA1), et comportant: • une plaquette ferromagnétique (FM) mobile en translation relativement à la première partie (PA1) de sorte à s’en rapprocher lorsqu’une force (F) est transmise au capteur (CP) et faire diminuer la réluctance d’un circuit magnétique composé desdites deux parties (PA1, PA2) en série avec un entrefer variable • un circuit électronique de détection configuré pour générer un signal dépendant de la réluctance du circuit magnétique. L’invention concerne également un système de chronométrage de nageurs comprenant un capteur de force selon l’invention.

Capacitive pressure sensor and preparation method thereof

Contact sensor for mobile robot

For capacitive analysis motion test material apparatus and method

SENSOR HAS LOOP ELECTROMAGNETIC FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF LOADS DYNAMIQUESAPPLIQUEES HAS A ROADWAY BY THE ROAD TRAFFIC

DEVICE OF DIFFERENTIAL MEASUREMENT OF FORCE ACCORDING TO ONE OR MORE AXES

DEVICE FOR MEASURING AXIAL FORCES APPLIED ON A ROD.

Process and device for the electromechanical determination of forces with direct quantified result

Measurement of axial force applied to wire - uses electromagnetic induction to determine magneto-elastic characteristics of standard wire

Balanced electrical inductive force transducer - uses coils set in magnetic strain block to form impedance bridge

SENSOR USING MEASUREMENT OF IMPEDANCE AND SENSING METHOD THEREOF

METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A STRAIN GAUGE DEVICE, A STRAIN GAUGE DEVICE, AND THE USE OF THE DEVICE

카본마이크로코일촉각센서를 구비한 터치패드

... 본 발명은, 사용자가 입력한 터치에 의하여 카본마이크로코일을 포함하는 센싱부의 임피던스가 변화하는 것을 이용하여, 터치위치와 터치힘을 감지할 수 있는 터치패드에 관한 것으로, 제1축방향으로 형성되는 구동전극부와 제2축방향으로 형성되는 센싱전극부를 포함하는 전극부, 상기 구동전극부에 인가되는 구동신호에 대하여 임피던스소자로서 기능하여, 터치가 이루어짐에 따라 임피던스가 변화함으로써 센싱신호를 생성하는 기능을 구비하는 센싱부, 상기 센싱부로부터 상기 센싱신호를 수신하여, 상기 센싱부의 저항, 인덕턴스 및 커패시턴스 중 하나 이상의 것을 측정함으로써 임피던스신호를 생성하는 기능을 구비하는 센싱신호수신부 및 상기 센싱신호수신부로부터 수신된 상기 임피던스신호를 처리하여 터치위치패턴 또는 터치힘패턴을 확정하는 기능을 구비하는 처리부를 포함하여 이루어지고, 상기 센싱부는 카본마이크로코일을 포함하는 것을 특징으로 하는 터치패드용카본마이크로코일촉각센서모듈을 제공한다.

차량 부하에 응답하여 변화하는 전기 송신 라인 파라미터를 포함하는 센서

... 장치는 센서 어셈블리를 포함한다. 센서 어셈블리는 송신 라인 어셈블리가 차량 도로에 대해 적어도 부분적으로 위치가능하도록 차량 도로에 대해 이동하는 이동 차량의 차량 부하의 수용에 적어도 부분적으로 응답하여 적어도 부분적으로 변화하도록 구성되는 전기 송신 라인 파라미터를 갖는 송신 라인 어셈블리를 포함한다.

METHOD FOR ESTIMATING TACTILE POSITION OF SENSOR AND APPARATUS THEREOF

하중 검출기

... 하중 검출기는, 하중을 지지하는 축을 보지하는 내륜부, 이 내륜부를 둘러싸서 마련되며 둘레 방향으로 간격을 두고 복수 형성된 설치 구멍을 통하여 체결 부재에 의해 설치 부재에 체결되는 외륜부, 및 내륜부로부터 직경 외측 방향으로 연장된 스프링부 단부에서 외륜부에 접속된 스프링부로 구성된 보지 유닛과, 하중에 의해 생기는 내륜부의 변위를 검출하는 변위 검출부를 구비하고 있다. 설치 구멍의 주연부에는 체결 부재의 외륜부에 대한 접합면인 설치 고정부를 갖는다. 외륜부에는 설치 구멍과 스프링부 단부 사이에 저 강성부가 형성되어 있으며, 저 강성부의 둘레 방향의 굽힘 강성은 외륜부의 다른 부위의 굽힘 강성과 비교하여 낮다.

PRESSURE SENSOR

A pressure sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a first insulating layer; a first electrode layer formed on the first insulating layer and including a plurality of signal electrodes arranged in a first region, and a plurality of wiring electrodes arranged in a second region and connected to the plurality of signal electrodes; a dielectric layer formed on the first electrode layer; and a second electrode layer formed on the dielectric layer and connected to a ground, wherein the first insulating layer and the first electrode layer are in contact with each other, wherein the first insulating layer and the dielectric layer are bonded by an adhesive layer, wherein a void of the adhesive layer is less than 5% of an area of the adhesive layer. COPYRIGHT KIPO 2018 ...

SENSOR COMPRISING CARBON MICRO-COIL SHEET AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SAME

The present invention relates to a sensor (100) using characteristics that impedance of a carbon micro-coil (131) forming a sensing sheet (130) of the sensor (100) changes as an object approaches the sensing sheet (130) of the sensor (100), is separated from the sensing sheet (130), comes in contact with the sensing sheet (130), or applies weight and to a method for manufacturing the same. The sensor (100) comprises: an electrode unit (110); the sensing sheet (130) which functions as an impedance device with respect to alternating current applied to the electrode unit (110); a substrate (120) having the electrode unit (110); and an attachment layer (140) which is located between the sensing sheet (130) and the substrate (120) having the electrode unit (110) and has a function of attaching the sensing sheet (130) and the substrate (120) to each other. Provided is the sensor having the sensing sheet (130) comprising the carbon micro-coil (131). COPYRIGHT KIPO 2017 ...

CAPACITANCE TYPE PRESSURE SENSOR AND INPUT APPARATUS

A dielectric material layer (33) is formed on the upper surface of a fixed electrode (32). A recess (33a) is formed in the upper surface of the dielectric material layer (33) by having the upper surface of the dielectric material layer (33) recessed downward. The bottom surface of the recess (33a) is covered with the dielectric material layer (33). An upper substrate (35a) is laminated on the surface of the dielectric material layer (33) so as to cover the recess (33a). A thin-film-like conductive diaphragm (35) is formed of an upper substrate (35a) portion, i.e., a region positioned above the recess (33a). A protrusion (39) is provided at an upper surface center portion of the diaphragm (35).

ELECTROMAGNETIC SENSOR OF FORCES

The proposed sensor is an electromagnetic sensor of forces. Its principle of operation relies on the phenomenon of influence by magnetic induction between two flat coils, of like diameter and comprising the same number of turns, situated a certain distance, x, apart, on one and the same axis passing through their centres. One of the coils is fixed on a horizontal support, and powered by a Wien oscillator, with precise conditions of phase and amplification. This coil generates a sinusoidal voltage of 84 Hz and of amplitude 2.5 V. The second flat coil is wound on an insulating cylinder, linked to the end of a spring. The other end of this same spring is attached to a fixed support. The second coil is therefore secured to the cylinder suspended vertically from the spring. The two coils, the spring and the cylinder are aligned on one and the same vertical axis. The cylinder plays the role of guidance, since it can move vertically and pass through an orifice on the contour of which is placed ...

LOAD CELL INCLUDING DISPLACEMENT TRANSDUCER, AND ASSOCIATED METHODS OF USE AND MANUFACTURE

A load cell reacts to an applied force by displacing a physical component of the load cell. An electrical component of the load cell produces an electromagnetic (EM) field in response to an applied radio frequency signal. The physical component is located in proximity to the EM field, and perturbs the EM field without physically contacting said electrical component structure. A displacement of the physical component results in a change to the perturbation of the EM field. A monitoring circuit of the load monitors an output signal that is affected by change to the perturbation of the EM field, and thereby detects the applied load.

CONNECTING ELEMENT

The invention relates to a connecting element (5) comprising a long shaft (19), especially a screw or a bolt, for connecting two bodies, wherein the shaft (19) has a slot (14) and a recess (13) at least in certain areas. Furthermore, a component (10) generating a magnetic field and a magnetically sensitive element (11) spaced therefrom are mounted in the area of the recess (13). The connecting element according to the invention is particularly suitable for detecting a force or mechanical stress exerted upon the seat of a vehicle.

Display device with series connected optical sensors for determining touch position

A display device with a touch screen includes: first sensing units, each first sensing unit comprising first optical sensors connected in series, each first sensing unit comprising a first terminal for receiving a first voltage, each first sensing unit extending in a first direction; second sensing units, each second sensing unit comprising second optical sensors connected in series, each second sensing unit comprising a first terminal for receiving a second voltage, each second sensing unit extending in a second direction transverse to the first direction; a reset unit for applying a reset voltage to a second terminal of each of the first and second sensing units; and a read-out unit for sensing a touch position based on voltage changes at the second terminals of the first and second sensing units.

Multi-axis load cell

A multi-axis load cell of the type adapted to generate signals corresponding to each of the various force and moment components exerted on the load cell is disclosed, comprised of a hub and a housing interconnected by three flexure arms, each flexure arm fixed at one end to one of the hub or housing and at the other end to a beam flexure element fixed to the other of the hub or housing. Each flexure beam is designed to be readily deflected in directions aligned with its respective flexure arm but offers substantially greater resistance to deflection in other directions, so that a centering bias force is provided without restricting the bending deflection of the flexure arms relied on to measure the force and moment components.

FORCE SENSOR AND MANUFACTURE METHOD THEREOF

A force sensor comprises a first substrate, a second substrate, a third substrate, and a package body. The first substrate includes a fixed electrode, at least one first conductive contact, and at least one second conductive contact. The second substrate is disposed on the first substrate and electrically connected to the first conductive contact of the first substrate. The second substrate includes a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) element corresponding to the fixed electrode. The third substrate is disposed on the second substrate and includes a pillar connected to the MEMS element. The package body covers the third substrate. The foregoing force sensor has better reliability.

FORCE SENSOR

A fast response force sensor is disclosed. The fast response force sensor comprises a solid-state bonding (SSB) spacer and piezo material therein. The SSB spacer is sandwiched between a top stack and a bottom stack of the force sensor. The SSB spacer maintains a fixed relative position between a top stack and a bottom stack of the force sensor when a fixed force is applied or removed. The SSB spacer is in solid state and shall not be significantly deformed while being depressed by a user, and therefore the response time of an output signal is vastly determined by the properties of the piezo material of the force sensor when a force is applied against the force sensor. Therefore, a fast response force sensor can respond quickly to a force applied against it.

FLEXIBLE CIRCUIT WITH LOCATION AND FORCE-SENSOR COILS

A flexible circuit that is substantially planar may be assembled into an electrophysiologic catheter. The flexible circuit may include various location sensing portions and force sensing portions. The flexible circuit may be deformed in a manner that improves the catheter's functionality concerning force feedback and location feedback, and then further deformed to be assembled into a small volume of the catheter.

Force/torque sensor, apparatus and method for robot teaching and operation

This invention relates to force/torque sensor and more particularly to multi-axis force/torque sensor and the methods of use for directly teaching a task to a mechatronic manipulator. The force/torque sensor has a casing, an outer frame forming part of or connected to the casing, an inner frame forming part of or connected to the casing, a compliant member connecting the outer frame to the inner frame, and one or more measurement elements mounted in the casing for measuring compliance of the compliant member when a force or torque is applied between the outer frame and the inner frame.

Force-touch panel, force-touch sensing device and display system having the same

A force-touch panel having a touch-sensing function and a force-sensing function, a force-touch detection device and a display system having the force-touch panel are disclosed. The force-touch panel includes a plurality of driving lines, a plurality of touch-sensing lines and a plurality of force-sensing lines. The driving lines have a plurality of driving electrodes connected in series. The touch-sensing lines in which a plurality of touch-sensing electrodes is connected in series are disposed so as to be covered by each of the driving electrodes. The force-sensing lines in which a plurality of force-sensing electrodes is connected in series, disposed on the same plane as the touch-sensing lines.

MAGNETIC FORCE SENSOR

There is provided a magnetic force sensor including: an action unit elastically supported by a supporting member; a magnetic-flux generating source including two or more magnets which are disposed so that a polarity of each of the magnetic-pole faces of the magnets is opposite to a polarity of a corresponding one of the magnetic-pole faces of the adjacent magnets in a particular direction; first magnetoelectric transducers that are individually provided at positions, the positions being positions at which the first magnetoelectric transducers oppose the magnetic-pole faces of the magnets in the action unit; and a second magnetoelectric transducer provided between the first magnetoelectric transducers. Vertical-direction components of a force are detected on the basis of outputs of the first magnetoelectric transducers, and a horizontal-direction component of the force is detected on the basis of an output of the second magnetoelectric transducer.

Multilayer tactile sensor with fastening means

Multilayer tactile sensor with a first layer that comprises a first electrode, a second layer that comprises a second electrode and an intermediate layer of pressure-sensitive material that is disposed between the first and second layers and that spaces apart the first electrode from the second electrode. The sensor further comprises a fastening means for fixing the first and second electrodes relative to each other. At least the first electrode is made of electrically conductive yarn and extends along a defined longitudinal direction. The fastening means comprises at least a first seam that extends in the longitudinal direction and that comprises at least one thread that is fed repeatedly multiple times through the pressure-sensitive material in order to fix the first electrode in a defined position.

Load monitoring systems and methods

A system (200) monitors a load associated with a load carrying member. The system (200) may include a voltage divider (240) and a computer device (250). The voltage divider (240) measures inductance associated with load sensing elements (210) that monitor the load carrying member. The computer device (250) determines displacements of the load sensing elements (210) based on the inductance associated with the load sensing elements (210) and determines the load associated with the load carrying member based on the displacements of the load sensing elements (210). The system may be designed to be portable and/or DC powered.

Position-sensing and force detection panel

Disclosed is a touch position sensor. Force detection circuitry can be included with the position sensor, for example, to determine an amount of force applied to a touch panel of the sensor.

ДАТЧИК ДЛЯ ИЗМЕРЕНИЯ МЕХАНИЧЕСКОГО НАПРЯЖЕНИЯ/ПРОДОЛЬНОЙ ДЕФОРМАЦИИ И СПОСОБ ИЗМЕРЕНИЯ МЕХАНИЧЕСКОГО НАПРЯЖЕНИЯ/ДЕФОРМАЦИИ

Изобретение относится к измерительной технике и может быть использовано для измерения механического напряжения, в частности для постоянного контроля состояния деталей машин, в том числе болтов. Устройство имеет первую индуктивность и, по меньшей мере, еще один, дополнительный элемент, имеющий, по меньшей мере, один первый зависящий от сжимающей нагрузки импеданс или второй импеданс и вторую индуктивность. При этом второй импеданс и/или вторая индуктивность являются зависящими от сжимающей нагрузки. При изменении действующей на дополнительный элемент сжимающей нагрузки изменяется резонансная частота электромагнитного колебательного контура, образованного импедансом и индуктивностью. Способ заключается в том, что между крепежным средством и соединенной с ним конструкцией располагают, по меньшей мере, один выполненный из пьезоэлектрического или магнитострикционного материала дополнительный элемент датчика с первой индуктивностью, имеющий, по меньшей мере, один первый зависящий от сжимающей ...

Ёмкостный датчик деформации

Изобретение относится к области измерительной техники, средствам для измерения деформации материалов. Датчик позволяет количественно определять деформацию растяжения-сжатия исследуемого объекта по изменению величины электрической емкости чувствительного элемента, изготовленного из оксидированного алюминия. Датчик может найти применение в промышленности для контроля упругих деформаций. Сущность заявленного решения заключается в том, что емкостный датчик деформации содержит чувствительный элемент, имеющий электрическую емкость, величина которой изменяется при приложении деформации, отличающийся тем, что датчик содержит: чувствительный элемент, закрепленный на монтажной пластине; металлическую ленту, зафиксированную на концах на монтажной пластине таким образом, чтобы чувствительный элемент располагался под металлической лентой; опору, размещенную между чувствительным элементом и металлической лентой, при этом чувствительный элемент выполнен в виде свернутых в несколько слоев на жесткой вставке ...

Ёмкостный датчик деформации

Изобретение относится к области измерительной техники, средствам для измерения деформации материалов. Датчик позволяет количественно определять деформацию растяжения-сжатия исследуемого объекта по изменению величины электрической емкости чувствительного элемента, изготовленного из оксидированного алюминия. Датчик может найти применение в промышленности для контроля упругих деформаций. Сущность заявленного решения заключается в том, что емкостный датчик деформации содержит чувствительный элемент, имеющий электрическую емкость, величина которой изменяется при приложении деформации, отличающийся тем, что содержит: чувствительный элемент, закрепленный на монтажной пластине; металлическую ленту, зафиксированную на концах на монтажной пластине таким образом, чтобы чувствительный элемент располагался под металлической лентой; опору, размещенную между чувствительным элементом и металлической лентой, при этом чувствительный элемент выполнен в виде пластин из алюминия, причем между пластинами имеется ...

ГИБКАЯ ПЛАТА, СОДЕРЖАЩАЯ СИЛОИЗМЕРИТЕЛЬНУЮ СПИРАЛЬ И СПИРАЛЬ ДЛЯ ОПРЕДЕЛЕНИЯ МЕСТОПОЛОЖЕНИЯ

ДАТЧИК ДЛЯ ИЗМЕРЕНИЯ МЕХАНИЧЕСКОГО НАПРЯЖЕНИЯ/ПРОДОЛЬНОЙ ДЕФОРМАЦИИ И СПОСОБ ИЗМЕРЕНИЯ МЕХАНИЧЕСКОГО НАПРЯЖЕНИЯ/ДЕФОРМАЦИИ

... 1. Датчик для измерения механического напряжения/продольной деформации, предназначенный для непрерывного контроля за величинами механического напряжения/продольной деформации, прежде всего завинченных болтов, отличающийся тем, что он имеет первую индуктивность (3) и по меньшей мере еще один, выполненный из пьезоэлектрического или магнитострикционного материала дополнительный элемент (2), имеющий по меньшей мере один первый зависящий от сжимающей нагрузки импеданс (5) или второй импеданс (5') и вторую индуктивность (3'), при этом второй импеданс (5') и/или вторая индуктивность (3') являются зависящими от сжимающей нагрузки, вследствие чего при изменении действующей на дополнительный элемент (2) сжимающей нагрузки изменяется резонансная частота электромагнитного колебательного контура (3; 5; 3'; 5'), образованного импедансом (5; 5') и индуктивностью (3; 3'). 2. Датчик по п.1, отличающийся тем, что дополнительный элемент (2) имеет по меньшей мере один первый зависящий от сжимающей нагрузки ...

Датчик давления жидкости и газа

Изобретение относится к измерительной технике и может быть использовано для измерения давления жидкостей или газов. Датчик содержит цилиндрический корпус, на одном конце которого закреплена мембрана, а на другом конце выполнено днище. На днище соосно корпусу установлен штырь с петлями связи для подключения измерительной схемы. Датчик снабжен двумя плоскими дисками, образующими обкладки конденсатора. Первый диск представлен торцевой поверхностью штыря, установленного на днище корпуса, второй диск представлен центральной частью мембраны. На торцевой поверхности штыря выполнена калиброванная выборка, а измерительная схема представлена автогенератором, соединенным с петлей связи, и электронным частотомером. Технический результат заключается в улучшении характеристик точности, температурной стабильности и линейности. 3 ил.

Control device for passenger protection unit of motor vehicle, has force sensor to record weight force acting on vehicle seat, where force sensor is designed as hall sensor and integrated in vehicle seat

The device has a force sensor to record weight force acting on a motor vehicle seat, where the force sensor is designed as a hall sensor and integrated in the vehicle seat, and includes a flexible plate. A control and evaluation circuit resolves a classification according to a weight distribution and position of objects or passengers on the seat, from a sensor signal of the sensor, and controls a passenger protective unit.

Verbindungselement

Es wird ein Verbindungselement vorgeschlagen, das zur Kraftmessung einer Relativbewegung zwischen einem Magnetsystem (45) und einer Magnetsensorik (46) zur Kraftmessung erfasst. Das Magnetsystem (45) ist zu der Magnetsensorik (46) derart angeordnet, dass eine Komponente des Magnetfelds senkrecht zur Relativbewegung linearisiert wird.

Magnetische Oberflächendruckeingabetafel

Kapazitiver Sensor, Sensorlage und Verfahren zur Herstellung eines kapazitiven Sensors

Es wird ein flexibler, beständiger kapazitiver Sensor bereitgestellt, der eine hohe Flexibilität bei der Gestaltung einer Verdrahtungsanordnung erreicht. Ein kapazitiver Sensor (1) umfasst eine dielektrische Schicht (2) und eine Mehrzahl von Elektrodeneinheiten (3), (4), die auf beiden Seiten der dielektrischen Schicht (2) in der Vorne-hinten-Richtung angeordnet sind. Die Elektrodeneinheit (3) umfasst eine Isolierschicht (31) mit Durchgangslöchern (310), die sich durch diese in der Vorne-hinten-Richtung erstrecken, Elektrodenschichten (01X bis 08X), die auf einer Seite der Isolierschicht (31) in der Vorne-hinten-Richtung angeordnet sind, und Brückenverdrahtungsschichten (01x bis 08x), die auf der anderen Seite der Isolierschicht (31) in der Vorne-hinten-Richtung angeordnet ist und durch die Durchgangslöcher (310) elektrisch mit den Elektrodenschichten (01X bis 08X) verbunden sind. Die Isolierschicht (31) weist eine Bruchdehnung von 60% oder mehr, einen Zugverformungsrest von weniger als ...

A force sensor

Displacement sensing apparatus and methods

Force sensing systems

A compensation circuit 420 at least partially cancels the offset voltage in an output signal of a force sensor 410. The compensation circuit 420 comprises a voltage divider 422 which receives a bias voltage Vbias that has also been supplied to force sensor 410. The voltage divider outputs a control voltage Vcont, derived from Vbias, and the component mismatch ratio of the voltage divider circuitry is adjustable to correspond to a component mismatch ratio of the force sensor. A current generator 424 receives Vcont and generates a compensation current Icomp. Amplifier circuitry 426 receives the differential signal output by the force sensor and Icomp and outputs a compensated differential output signal in which the offset voltage is at least partially reduced. The voltage divider may have an adjustable ratio of Vcont to Vbias corresponding to a ratio of a quiescent different output voltage of the force sensor to Vbias. A ratio of resistances of the voltage divider circuitry may be adjustable ...

Force measuring instrument

... 1,100,100. Weighing apparatus. C. JOHNSON. July 15, 1966 [July 19, 1965], No. 31906/66. Headings G1N and G1W. In a modification of the force measuring or weighing apparatus described in Specifications 947, 120 and 829, 252, a plurality of flexure spring-members are operatively connected between a cantilever load receiving platform, supported on a pedestal fixed to base by a flexure pivot, and the said base, in order to resist pivotal displacement of the platform by a force applied thereto, said springs being connected in series between the base and platform. The platform may support a bearing for a conveyer belt roller whereby the load on the conveyer is sensed. The free end of the cantilevered platform 28, Figs.2 and 5 is coupled to a differential transformer armature core 74 which is movable within a coil unit 110. Movement of the armature 74, because of thermal expansion of the components coupling it to the platform, is taken care of by suitable choice of materials of the coupling components ...

Digital to analog converters

Converter for electrical voltage or inductive admittance

Gegenstand der Erfindung ist ein Anwendungserfordernissen leicht anpassbarer, sehr kompakt realisierbarer elektronischer Konverter für die gegebenenfalls zeitlich variierende Admittanz einer Spule, oder einer Induktionsspannung, als primärer Entsprechung einer sie verursachenden Messgröße zwecks Herleitung sekundärer oder tertiärer Messgrößenentsprechungen in Form von frequenzmodulierten oder amplitudenmodulierten Schwingungen eines Oszillators, oder in Form der beispielsweise einer niedrigen Induktionsspannung folgenden, aber wesentlich größeren Ausgangsspannung eines Phasenkomparators einer Phase-Locked Loop [PLL], sowie die fakultative Übertragung der Information auf die bzw. auf der Versorgungsleitung zwecks Fernabfragemöglichkeit.

Converter for electrical voltage or inductive admittance

Gegenstand der Erfindung ist ein Anwendungserfordernissen leicht anpassbarer, sehr kompakt realisierbarer elektronischer Konverter für die gegebenenfalls zeitlich variierende Admittanz einer Spule, oder einer Induktionsspannung, als primärer Entsprechung einer sie verursachenden Messgröße zwecks Herleitung sekundärer oder tertiärer Messgrößenentsprechungen in Form von frequenzmodulierten oder amplitudenmodulierten Schwingungen eines Oszillators, oder in Form der beispielsweise einer niedrigen Induktionsspannung folgenden, aber wesentlich größeren Ausgangsspannung eines Phasenkomparators einer Phase­ Locked Loop [PLL], sowie die fakultative Übertragung der Information auf die bzw. auf der Versorgungsleitung zwecks Fernabfragemöglichkeit.

SHOE FOR MEDICAL APPLICATIONS

MAGNETIC FORCE SENSOR

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zum Messen von auf einem Bauteil (1,2) einwirkenden Kräften mittels zumindest eines magnetischen Kraftsensors (100), wobei der Kraftsensor (100) zumindest eine magnetische Leiterbahn (111, 211) aus weichmagnetischem Material aufweist, und die zumindest eine magnetische Leiterbahn (111, 211) zumindest eine Unterbrechung (130) mit einem Abstand (A) aufweist, wobei permanent ein magnetischer Fluss in der zumindest einen magnetische Leiterbahn (111, 211) induziert wird, der magnetische Fluss überwacht wird und eine Änderung des Abstands (A) der zumindest einen magnetische Leiterbahn (111, 211) eine Änderung des magnetischen Flusses in der zumindest einen magnetische Leiterbahn (111, 211) bewirkt, sowie einen Kraftsensor und dessen Herstellung hierzu.

Touch sensor device

A touch sensor device includes first touch pads, each of which is connected with a first bar-type touch pattern and a second bar-type touch pattern by a plurality of bridges and is disposed in a first direction, the first and second bar-type touch patterns being connected with first and second channels at opposite ends thereof and third and fourth channels at opposite ends thereof respectively, second touch pads, each of which is connected with fifth and sixth channels at opposite ends thereof respectively and is disposed in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a touch sensor sequentially applying reference signals to the second and fourth channels of the first touch pads, performing resistor-type and capacitor-type touch sensing using resistance and capacitance values varied depending on the touch location of a touch object, and generating touch location data corresponding to the touch location.

External force detecting device and external force detecting sensor

A device is provided for a detecting external force applied to piezoelectric piece. A crystal piece is cantilever-supported in a container. Excitation electrodes are formed on an upper face and lower face, respectively. A movable electrode, connected via a lead-out electrode to the excitation electrode, is formed on the lower face side at a front end of the crystal piece. A fixed electrode is provided on a bottom portion of the container to face this movable electrode. The excitation electrode on the upper face side and the fixed electrode are connected to an oscillation circuit. When the crystal piece bends in response to an applied external force, capacitance between the movable electrode and fixed electrode, changes. This capacitance change results in a corresponding change in oscillation frequency of the crystal piece.

Impact sensors and systems including impact sensors

An impact sensor system includes at least one impact sensor including at least a first conductive layer, at least a second conductive layer, and at least one insulating layer between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer. The insulating layer maintains the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer in spaced, non-contacting relation. The first conducting layer and the insulating layer are deformable upon an impact to the first conducting layer such that separation between the first conducting layer and the second conducting layer decreases upon an impact of a predefined nature. The impact sensor system also includes circuitry in connection with the impact sensor to measure a change in at least one electrical property of the impact sensor resulting from the decrease in the separation between the first conducting layer and the second conducting layer. A body armor system to be worn by a person includes at least one section of body armor and at least one impact sensor associated with at least a section of the body armor.

Sheet-like tactile sensor system

Provided are multiple normal stress detection sensor units capable of detecting a normal stress, and a sheet layer portion. The sheet layer portion includes an exterior sheet layer portion, a force detection sheet layer portion incorporating normal stress detection units, and an intermediary layer sandwiched between the exterior sheet layer portion and the force detection sheet layer portion. The exterior sheet layer portion and the force detection sheet layer portion include multiple protrusions protruding in directions opposed to each other, and are disposed such that the protrusions engage each other with the intermediary layer interposed therebetween. Each normal stress detection sensor unit includes a central portion detection sensor device disposed immediately below a central portion of the protrusion provided on the force detection sheet portion, and at least two edge detection sensor devices disposed immediately below edge portions of the protrusion provided on the force detection sheet portion.

Method for reducing non-linearity during measurement of a physical parameter and electronic circuit for implementing the same

A method for reducing the non-linearity effect of a digital-analogue converter. An electronic circuit includes an amplifier and a digital-analogue converter for supplying a measuring voltage. The method includes biasing the capacitor electrodes by the measuring voltage on the basis of the first digital signal, then biasing the fixed electrode of the first capacitor at a regulated voltage and the fixed electrode of the second capacitor at a low voltage, then biasing the capacitor electrodes by the measuring voltage on the basis of a second digital measuring signal, and finally biasing the fixed electrode of the first capacitor at a low voltage and the fixed electrode of the second capacitor at a regulated voltage. A defined offset voltage is introduced into the digital-analogue converter to modulate the first and second digital signals. A mean is taken of the two digital signals to reduce the non-linearity effect of the converter.

Sensor readout with redundancy-checking

A difference measurement circuit including a first port and a second port for connection to a first set of nodes and a second set of nodes of a sensor unit. The circuit further includes switching units for switching excitation signals emanating from excitation nodes from being applied to the first set of nodes via the first port to being applied to the second set of nodes via the second port and for switching differential measurement signals measured at sensing nodes from being obtained from the second set of nodes via the second port to being obtained from the first set of nodes via the first port. A corresponding method is described. The circuit further includes redundancy testing circuitry for evaluating the similarity or deviation between measurement signals obtained in different states of the switching units.

MULTI-AXIS SENSOR

Provided herein is a multi-axis sensor including: a pair of electrodes positioned such that at least partial areas thereof face each other; an elasticity member having one of the pair of electrodes installed in its upper portion and another of the pair of electrodes installed in a lower portion; and a sensor unit electrically connected with the pair of electrodes, and configured to detect a change of capacitance value between the pair of electrodes and a change of resistance value of the elasticity member. 1. A multi-axis sensor comprising:a pair of electrodes positioned such that at least partial areas thereof face each other;an elasticity member having one of the pair of electrodes installed in its upper portion and another of the pair of electrodes installed in a lower portion; anda sensor unit electrically connected with the pair of electrodes, and configured to detect a change of capacitance value between the pair of electrodes and a change of resistance value of the elasticity member, so as to measure an external force applied to the elasticity member.2. The multi-axis sensor according to claim 1 , the multi-axis sensor is a hybrid type multi-axis sensor in which the elasticity member has a plate shape with a flat top surface and comprises a dielectric material having a relative permittivity of 1-8.3. The multi-axis sensor according to claim 1 ,wherein the sensing unit is configured to distinguish a direction component of the external force applied to the elasticity member based on a change in the capacitance value or a change of the resistance value.4. The multi-axis sensor according to claim 3 ,wherein the sensor unit is configured to measure a horizontal component of the external force applied to an upper surface or a lower surface of the elasticity member distinctively from a vertical component of the external force applied to the elasticity member.5. The multi-axis sensor according to claim 4 ,wherein the sensor unit is configured to measure a change of ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RAPID DATA COLLECTION FROM PRESSURE SENSORS IN A PRESSURE SENSING SYSTEM

A system and method for the management of data collection from a pressure sensing apparatus. The system allows rapid measurement of pressure exerted upon a surface and may be useful in preventing bed sore development in a bed bound subject. 1. A method of measuring capacitances of n capacitors in a pressure sensing system , the pressure sensing system comprising:a plurality of linear conductor columns and a plurality of linear conductor rows, wherein the columns are not parallel to the rows, and an array of capacitors each formed at the intersection of a column and a row, and wherein the columns and rows are respectively disposed on opposite sides of a sheet of a compressible dielectric,the method comprising:applying an alternating known voltage to n circuits of the n capacitors, each of the n circuits comprising a different capacitor of the n capacitors being connected in series to the other n−1 capacitors, the n−1 capacitors being interconnected in parallel;measuring the alternating current of each of the n circuits;deriving total capacitance of each circuit from the known voltage and measured current;applying an alternating known voltage to an n+1 circuit comprising the n capacitors interconnected in parallel;measuring the alternating current of the n+1 circuit;deriving total capacitance of the n+1 circuit; andderiving from the measured and known values the capacitance of each of the n capacitors.2. The method of wherein the step of applying an alternating known voltage to n circuits comprises:applying an alternating known voltage between one row and a plurality of columns.3. The method of wherein the step of measuring the alternating current of each of the n circuits comprises:connecting a current sensor to one of the plurality of columns; andrepeating the connecting for all of the plurality of columns.4. The method of wherein the plurality of columns comprises all the linear conductor columns of the pressure sensing system.5. A method for predicting a terminal- ...

CAPACITIVE PRESSURE SENSOR AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME

A capacitive pressure sensor includes: a semiconductor substrate having a reference pressure chamber formed therein; a diaphragm which is formed in a front surface of the semiconductor substrate and has a ring-like peripheral through hole penetrating between the front surface of the semiconductor substrate and the reference pressure chamber and defining an upper electrode and a plurality of central through holes; a peripheral insulating layer which fills the peripheral through hole and electrically isolates the upper electrode from other portions of the semiconductor substrate; and a central insulating layer which fills the central through holes. 1. A capacitive pressure sensor comprising:a semiconductor substrate having a reference pressure chamber formed therein and having a front surface at one side of the reference pressure chamber and a rear surface at the other side of the reference pressure chamber;a diaphragm formed in the front surface of the semiconductor substrate, and having a ring-like peripheral through hole and a plurality of central through holes, the ring-like peripheral through hole penetrating between a front surface of the semiconductor substrate and the reference pressure chamber and defining an upper electrode constituted by a portion of the diaphragm surrounded by the ring-like peripheral through hole, and the plurality of central through holes penetrating between the front surface of the semiconductor substrate and the reference pressure chamber;a peripheral insulating layer which is disposed within the peripheral through hole and fills the peripheral through hole to electrically isolate the upper electrode from other portions of the semiconductor substrate; anda central insulating layer which is disposed within the central through holes and fills the central through holes.2. The capacitive pressure sensor of claim 1 , wherein the central through holes are arranged into a water droplet pattern claim 1 , andwherein the peripheral through hole ...

POSITION INDICATOR

A position indicator includes a capacitor having a capacitance that changes in correspondence to a force applied to one end part of a housing. The capacitor is configured by a pressure detecting chip that includes a first electrode and a second electrode disposed opposite to the first electrode with a predetermined distance defined therebetween to have capacitance Cv formed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The capacitance Cv changes when the force applied to the one end part of the housing is transmitted to the first electrode to thereby change a relationship (e.g., the distance) between the two electrodes. A pressure transmitting member having predetermined elasticity is disposed on the first electrode such that the force applied to the one end part of the housing is transmitted to the first electrode of the semiconductor element via the pressure transmitting member. 1. A position indicator comprising:a housing having a first end part and a second end part;a capacitor having a capacitance that changes in correspondence to a force applied to the first end part of the housing, the capacitor being configured by a semiconductor element that includes a first electrode and a second electrode disposed opposite to the first electrode at a predetermined distance from the first electrode to have a capacitance formed between the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the capacitance changes in correspondence to a change in a relationship between the first and second electrodes caused by the force applied to the first end part of the housing and transmitted to the first electrode;a pressure transmitting member that has predetermined elasticity and transmits the force to the first electrode of the semiconductor element; anda pressing member that transmits the force applied to the first end part of the housing to the pressure transmitting member having the predetermined elasticity;wherein the force applied to the first end part of the housing is ...

Sensor for tension measurement

A device includes a first sensor and a second sensor. The first sensor is configured to generate a first signal corresponding to a detected first force. The second sensor is configured to generate a second signal corresponding to a detected second force. The first force and the second force has a substantially common direction. The device includes a processor configured to determine a measure of tension using the first signal and using the second signal. The measure of tension corresponds to displacement of an elongate member.

PASSIVE MONITORING DEVICE OF THE INNER PRESSURE IN A BLOCK OF BUILDING MATERIAL

A monitoring device is for the inner pressure distribution of building material in a building structure. The device may include planar sensing capacitors to be buried in contact with the building material, with each sensing capacitor including a pair of plates and a dielectric material layer therebetween adapted to undergo elastic deformation under pressure without deforming plastically. The device may also include a protection box to be buried in the building material, a dielectric material enclosed in the protection box, and connection terminals protruding from the protection box. Pairs of metal vias are buried in the dielectric material enclosed within the protection box, with each pair connecting the plates of a respective planar sensing capacitor to respective connection terminals. 19-. (canceled)10. A monitoring device of inner pressure distribution of building material in a building structure , comprising:a plurality of planar sensing capacitors adapted to be buried in contact with the building material, each planar sensing capacitor comprising a pair of plates and a dielectric material layer therebetween adapted to undergo elastic deformation under pressure in the building material without deforming plastically;a protection box adapted to be buried in the building material and to withstand pressures without undergoing plastic deformation;a dielectric material enclosed in said protection box;connection terminals protruding from said protection box; anda plurality of pairs of metal vias buried in the dielectric material enclosed within said protection box, each of said pairs of metal vias connecting the plates of a respective planar sensing capacitor to respective connection terminals.11. The monitoring device according to claim 10 , wherein respective metal vias of a same pair run in said dielectric material parallel to one another at a constant mutual distance.12. The monitoring device according to claim 10 , further comprising claim 10 , for each pair of ...

Force sensor

With the Z-axis given as a central axis, on an XY-plane, arranged are a rigid force receiving ring, a flexible detection ring inside thereof, and a cylindrical fixed assistant body further inside thereof. Two fixing points on the detection ring are fixed to a supporting substrate, and two exertion points are connected to the force receiving ring via connection members. When force and moment are exerted on the force receiving ring, with the supporting substrate fixed, the detection ring undergoes elastic deformation. Capacitance elements or others are used to measure distances between measurement points and the fixed assistant body and distances between the measurement points and the supporting substrate. Elastic deformation of the detection ring is recognized for mode and magnitude, thereby detecting a direction and magnitude of force or moment which is exerted.

Input Device Sensor Configuration

Input device configurations are described. In one or more implementations, an input device includes a sensor substrate having one or more conductors and a flexible contact layer spaced apart from the sensor substrate. The flexible contact layer is configured to flex to contact the sensor substrate to initiate an input of a computing device. The flexible contact layer includes a force concentrator pad that is configured to cause pressure to be channeled through the force concentrator pad to cause the flexible contact layer to contact the sensor substrate to initiate the input. 1. An input device comprising:a sensor substrate having one or more conductors; anda flexible contact layer spaced apart from the sensor substrate that is configured to flex to contact the sensor substrate to initiate an input of a computing device, the flexible contact layer including a force concentrator pad that is configured to cause pressure to be channeled through the force concentrator pad to cause the flexible contact layer to contact the sensor substrate to initiate the input.2. An input device as described in claim 1 , wherein flexible contact layer includes a force sensitive ink that is configured to initiate the input.3. An input device as described in claim 1 , wherein the pressure is applied to the force concentrator pad through an off center key strike and the force concentrator pad is configured to channel the pressure to initiate the input.4. An input device as described in claim 1 , wherein the force concentrator pad forms a raised portion in relation to a substrate of the flexible contact layer.5. An input device as described in claim 4 , wherein an area of the surface is smaller than an area defined by a space defined between the flexible contact layer from the sensor substrate.6. An input device as described in claim 1 , wherein the force concentrator pad causes an increase in a deformation bend radius of the flexible contact layer from that of a contact that applied the ...

Position indicator of electromagnetic induction system and electronic ink cartridge

An electronic ink cartridge includes, in a direction of a central axis within a cylindrical body, a core body extended out from a distal end of the cylindrical body, a coupling member disposed on a side of a proximal end of the cylindrical body, a coil housed between the core body and the coupling member and having a predetermined inductance, and a pressure sensitive element whose capacitance changes according to pressure applied to the core body. Two terminals of the coil are electrically connected respectively to two terminals of the pressure sensitive element to thereby form two terminals of a resonance circuit formed by the coil and the pressure sensitive element. A connecting terminal electrically connected to at least one of the two terminals of the resonance circuit is disposed on a proximal end surface side of the coupling member to be accessible thereon from outside.

MULTICAPACITOR FORCE/MOMENT SENSOR ARRAYS

A multicapacitor sensor system facilitates the measurement of applied shear and moment forces. In one disclosed configuration, moments may be detectable in x, y and z directions, resulting in a full, 3-axis load cell with 6 degrees of freedom. The system may further include electrical circuitry to generate electrical drive pulses, sense amplify and buffer the voltages induced on the sense plates, and compute applied forces. An array of multicapacitor sensors that can be addressed individually without cross-talk and globally produce a map of forces and moments applied to the whole array. A MEMS implementation enables in vivo application. 1. A multicapacitor sensor system , comprising:a drive plate or plates in the case of an array defining an electrically conductive pattern having a center point, the pattern including at least two orthogonal electrodes and at least one electrode extending radially outwardly from the center point;an electrically conductive sensor pattern including at least one electrode parallel to each of the orthogonal electrodes and at least two electrodes parallel to each electrode extending radially outwardly from the center point; and a) Forces applied to the system in the x and y directions may be detected by changes in the capacitance between the orthogonal electrodes of the drive plate pattern and the electrodes of the sense plate pattern parallel to the orthogonal electrodes, and', 'b) Moments applied to the system around the z direction may be detected by changes in the capacitance between the electrode extending radially outwardly from the center point of the drive plate pattern and the electrodes of the sense plate pattern parallel to the electrode extending radially outwardly., 'a compressible, elastic dielectric material separating the drive and sensor patterns, whereby the drive and sensor patterns and dielectric define a two-dimensional plane with x and y directions and a z direction perpendicular to the plane, and2. The ...

FORCE DETECTING MAT WITH MULTIPLE SENSOR TYPES

A flexible force or pressure sensing mat includes a first sheet of electrically conductive first paths, a second sheet of electrically conductive second paths, and a sensing layer positioned between the first and second sheets. The first and second conductive paths are oriented transversely to each other, and the locations of their intersections define individual sensing areas or sensors. The sensing layer is made from materials that have first and second electrical characteristics—such as capacitance and resistance—that vary in response to physical forces exerted thereon. A controller repetitively measures the multiple electrical characteristics of each sensor in order to produce a near real time pressure distribution map of the forces sensed by the mat. The mat can be used on a patient support surface—such as a bed, cot, stretcher, recliner, operating table, etc.—to monitor and help reduce the likelihood of a patient developing pressure ulcers. 1. A flexible force sensing mat comprising:a first sheet having a plurality of first conductive paths supported thereon;a layer of sensing material positioned in contact with said first conductive paths, said layer of sensing material having first and second electrical characteristics that vary in response to physical forces exerted thereon;a second sheet positioned in contact with said layer of sensing material on a side of said layer of sensing material opposite said first sheet, said second sheet having a plurality of second conductive paths supported thereon, said plurality of second conductive paths being transverse to said plurality of first conductive paths; anda controller adapted to detect changes in both said first and second electrical characteristics when force is applied to said force sensing mat.2. The mat of wherein said first sheet claim 1 , said second sheet claim 1 , and said layer of sensing material are all elastically stretchable.3. The mat of wherein said first and second sheets are made of nylon.4. ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING AXIAL ORIENTATION AND LOCATION OF A USER'S WRIST

This relates to systems and methods for determining the axial orientation and location of the user's wrist using one or more sensors located on the strap, the device underbody, or both. For example, the strap can include a plurality of elastic sections and a plurality of rigid sections. Each elastic section can include one or more flex sensors. In some examples, on or more electromyography (EMG) sensors can be included to measure the user's electrical signals, and the user's muscle activity can be determined. In some examples, a plurality of strain gauges can be included to generate one or more signals indicative of any changes in shape, size, and/or physical properties of the user's wrist. In some examples, the device can include a plurality of capacitance sensors for increased granularity and/or sensitivity in measuring the amount of tension exerted by the user's wrist. 1. A method of determining a performance of a wrist of a user , the method comprising:determining a tension of the wrist of the user using one or more sensors included in a device;determining a motion of the wrist using one or more of an accelerometer, gyroscopic sensors, and barometric sensors included in the device;simulating the performance of the wrist using the determined tension and the determined motion;analyzing the performance by comparing the simulated performance to one or more stored ideal performances; andproviding the simulation and the analysis to the user.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the performance is associated with a sports performance claim 1 , and the tension of the wrist includes gripping a sports instrument.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the sports performance includes weight training claim 2 , and the sports instrument includes a dumbbell.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein the one or more sensors include piezoelectric sensors claim 2 , and the determination of the tension of the wrist includes:receiving one or more signals in response to a change in properties of ...

Touch detection device used in water handling equipment, and faucet apparatus including the same

A touch detection device capable of operation by a light touch, and of preventing false operations even when used in water handling equipment includes a sensing portion for sensing contact by a target object; a vibration excitation element attached to this sensing portion, a drive circuit for exciting vibration in the sensing portion, and a contact determining circuit for determining whether a target object is contacting a sensing portion based on vibration of the sensing portion after stopping the application of an AC voltage to the vibration excitation element by this drive circuit.

SENSOR SHEET, CAPACITIVE SENSOR, AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SENSOR SHEET

Provided is a sensor sheet, a capacitive sensor, and a method for manufacturing sensor sheet with which it is possible to suppress changes in capacitance due to an arrangement state. This sensor sheet () includes a pair of electrode layers (X-X, Y-Y), constraint layers () that regulate the surface-direction expansion and contraction of the electrode layers (X-X, Y-Y), a plurality of detection parts (A ()-A ()) disposed in portions where the pair of electrode layers (X-X, Y-Y) is overlapped when viewed from the lamination direction, and non-detection parts (G) disposed between the plurality of detection parts (A ()-A ()). In a no-load state, the constraint layers () are disposed in at least some of the plurality of detection parts (A ()-A ()), and gaps (g) are partitioned in at least some of the non-detection parts (G). 1. A sensor sheet , comprising:a pair of electrode layers disposed to be spaced apart in a lamination direction;constraint layers that regulate the surface-direction expansion and contraction of the electrode layers;a plurality of detection parts disposed in portions where the pair of electrode layers is overlapped when viewed from the lamination direction; andnon-detection parts disposed between the plurality of detection parts when viewed from the lamination direction,wherein in a no-load state,the constraint layers are disposed in at least some of the plurality of detection parts, andgaps are partitioned in at least some of the non-detection parts.2. The sensor sheet according to claim 1 , comprising a plurality of dielectric layers which are disposed between the pair of electrode layers and are disposed in the plurality of detection parts.3. The sensor sheet according to claim 2 , wherein the constraint layers are disposed between the dielectric layers and the electrode layers.4. The sensor sheet according to claim 3 , wherein the constraint layers comprise constraint layer bodies claim 3 , inside adhesive layers which adhere the constraint layer ...

PRESSURE SENSOR DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING PRESSURE SENSOR DEVICE

A pressure sensor device capable of further decreasing dimensions of a pressure-sensitive element in which a semiconductor integrated circuit is integrated and increasing a spatial resolution and a method for manufacturing the pressure sensor device. A pressure sensor device includes a flexible wiring substrate and a plurality of pressure-sensitive elements in each of which a semiconductor integrated circuit is integrated. The pressure-sensitive elements are attached to one surface of the flexible wiring substrate and are electrically connected to wirings of the flexible wiring substrate. Pressure applied to the other surface of the flexible wiring substrate corresponding to an attachment position of each of the pressure-sensitive elements can be detected by a corresponding pressure-sensitive element through the flexible wiring substrate. 1. A pressure sensor device comprising:a flexible wiring substrate; anda plurality of pressure-sensitive elements in each of which a semiconductor integrated circuit is integrated and which is attached to one surface of the flexible wiring substrate and is electrically connected to wirings of the flexible wiring substrate, wherein pressure applied to the other surface of the flexible wiring substrate corresponding to an attachment position of each of the pressure-sensitive elements can be detected by a corresponding pressure-sensitive element through the flexible wiring substrate.2. The pressure sensor device according to claim 1 , whereineach of the pressure-sensitive elements is formed of a parallel plate-type electrostatic capacitance sensor in which a semiconductor integrated circuit is integrated.3. The pressure sensor device according to claim 1 , whereinthe semiconductor integrated circuit can compress data output from a pressure sensing unit of each of the pressure-sensitive elements.4. The pressure sensor device according to claim 1 , whereinthe flexible wiring substrate is formed of a multi-layer substrate having wirings ...

Measurement apparatus

Measurement apparatus, for generating a first output signal indicative of a measurand, comprises: a first oscillator circuit and a second oscillator circuit, each oscillator circuit being arranged to generate a respective oscillating output signal and comprising at least a respective first component having a property determining a respective output frequency of the respective oscillating output signal; a sensor for sensing said measurand, the sensor comprising said first component of the first oscillator circuit, said property of said first component of the first oscillator circuit being dependent upon said measurand; and circuitry arranged to receive said oscillating output signals and generate said first output signal, said first output signal being indicative of a number of cycles of one of the first and second oscillating output signals in a time period determined by a period of the other of said first and second oscillating output signals.

Input device, input system

The input device includes a metal dome, and a pressure sensor facing a concave surface of the metal dome and supporting the metal dome.

Multi-modal switch array

A system includes a first force sensing transducer being configured to enable force sensing detection of a first force input on a first contact interface, a memory, and a processor that is operatively coupled to the memory and the first force sensing transducer. The processor is configured to perform operations including detect the first force input on the first contact interface via the first force sensing transducer, measure at least one of a magnitude or a direction of the first force input detected by the first force sensing transducer, compute a force sensing data parameter based on the measured at least one of the magnitude or the direction of the first force input; determine an output function based on the force sensing data parameter; and cause an activation of the output function.

Pliable capacitive structure apparatus and methods

The present invention relates to pliable capacitive structures such as dielectric elastomers and similar smart materials which can be used for sensing externally applied strains which can be inferred by the determining the capacitance of the structure/material. There is provided an apparatus comprising a pliable capacitive structure for use in detecting shape or strain changes, the pliable capacitive structure having a dielectric material positioned between two electrodes; means for applying a steady-state voltage across the two electrodes; and means for determining changes in capacitance of the pliable capacitive structure using said steady state voltage.

Electronic measurement circuit

The present invention concerns an electronic measurement circuit for measuring a physical parameter. The circuit comprises: a measurement sensor comprising two differential mounted capacitors each comprising a fixed electrode, and a common electrode, common to the two capacitors which is arranged to be movable relative to each fixed electrode of the two capacitors in order to alter the capacitive value of each capacitor when the physical parameter is measured. The circuit further comprises a first integrator unit connected to the common electrode for integrating charge received from the measurement sensor, and comprising two integrators arranged to be connected alternately to the common electrode; a second integrator unit connected to the first integrator unit for integrating charge received from the first integrator unit; a comparator for comparing analogue output values from the second integrator unit; a switch circuit connected to the measurement sensor for switching different voltage values across the two capacitors; and a feedback circuit for feeding a digital output signal of the comparator to the switch circuit for controlling the operation of the switch circuit.

Electronic skin, preparation method and use thereof

The invention provides a piezoresistive electronic skin, a preparation method and a use thereof. The piezoresistive electronic skin uses carbon nanotube film as the conductive layer and uses materials provided with micro-nano patterns, such as polydimethylsiloxane, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl formal, polyethylene, and so on, as the substrate, enabling the substrate has advantages of high flexibility and being pliable, and it needs low operating voltage and little power consumption, but has high sensitivity and short response time. More importantly, the invention uses the patterned flexible substrate as the basis, greatly improving the sensitivity of electronic skin reacting to tiny applied force from outside. The invention also provides a capacitive electronic skin and a preparation method thereof. Further, the invention also provides a use of the piezoresistive electronic skin or the capacitive electronic skin on speech recognition, pulse detection, medical robot, etc.

Dielectric elastomer sensor system and dielectric elastomer sensor element

A dielectric elastomer sensor system A 1 is provided with an oscillation circuit 1 including a dielectric elastomer sensor element 11 having a dielectric elastomer layer 111 and a pair of electrode layers 112 sandwiching the dielectric elastomer layer 111, and with a determination circuit 2 configured to determine a change in a capacitance of the dielectric elastomer sensor element 11, based on an output signal from the oscillation circuit 1. The dielectric elastomer sensor element 11 changes in capacitance due to deformation caused by external forces of at least two mutually different directions. Such a configuration enables provision of a multifunctional dielectric elastomer sensor system and dielectric elastomer sensor element.

FOOT SENSOR AND OTHER SENSOR PADS

The enclosed describes a sensor pad for wearing on a human body. The sensor pad is configured to be in contact with a substrate having a contoured surface, such as a surface of the body. The sensor pad comprises at least a sensor layer and a stiffener layer. The sensor layer comprises a surface area defining a sensing area configured to measure value at a plurality of locations of the sensing area. The stiffener layer is couples to the surface area of the sensor layer. The stiffener layer has a micro-cut pattern to reduce mechanical resistance of the stiffener layer. The micro-cut pattern facilitates the stiffener layer in stretching or compressing in one or more predefined directions, enabling the stiffener lay to conform to the contoured surface of the substrate. 1. A wearable sensor pad configured to be in contact with a substrate with a contoured surface , the wearable sensor pad comprising:a sensor layer having a surface area that defines a sensing area, the sensor layer configured to measure values detected at a plurality of locations of the sensing area; anda stiffener layer coupled to at least a majority of the surface area of the sensor layer, the stiffener layer having a micro-cut pattern that reduces resistance of the stiffener layer in one or more predefined directions to enhance the sensor layer stretching or compressing in the one or more predefined directions to conform with the contoured surface.2. The wearable sensor pad of claim 1 , wherein the wearable sensor pad is an insole and the substrate is a shoe.3. The wearable sensor pad of claim 1 , wherein the substrate is part of a human body.4. The wearable sensor pad of claim 1 , wherein the sensor layer forms a capacitance sensor and comprises a conductive layer and a dielectric layer.5. The wearable sensor pad of claim 1 , wherein the sensor pad comprises a flexible enclosure claim 1 , a capacitive layer claim 1 , a stiffener layer claim 1 , wiring claim 1 , and perimeter stiffeners.6. The sensor ...

Position-Sensing and Force Detection Panel

Disclosed is a touch position sensor. Force detection circuitry can be included with the position sensor, for example, to determine an amount of force applied to a touch panel of the sensor. 117.-. (canceled)18. A sensor , comprising:a voltage driver operable to provide an alternating voltage;an integrator circuit;a first variable resistance element coupled to a first output of the voltage driver and an input of the integrator circuit, wherein the integrator circuit is operable to measure a parameter of the first variable resistance element over a period of time; andcircuitry operable to determine, based on the measured parameter, an amount of force applied to a touch sensing panel.19. The sensor of claim 18 , wherein the parameter is current flowing through the variable resistance element.20. The sensor of claim 18 , further comprising a bias resistance element connected in parallel with the first variable resistance element.21. The sensor of claim 18 , further comprising a limiting resistance element connected in series with the first variable resistance element claim 18 ,22. The sensor of claim 18 , further comprising a second variable resistance element coupled with a second output of the voltage driver and the input of the integrator circuit.23. The sensor of claim 22 , further comprising a bias resistance element connected in parallel with the second variable resistance element.24. The sensor of claim 22 , further comprising a limiting resistance element connected in series with the second variable resistance element.25. The sensor of claim 18 , wherein the first input of the integrator circuit is at a voltage between a first voltage and a second voltage of the alternating voltage provided by the voltage driver.26. The sensor of claim 18 , wherein the circuitry is operable to determine an amount of force applied to the sensor using a differential measurement.27. The sensor of claim 18 , wherein the circuitry is further operable to determine a location in a ...

CAPACITOR SENSOR INCLUDING TWO PLATES HAVING BOTH CONDUCTIVE AND NON CONDUCTIVE REGIONS

A capacitive sensor for characterizing force or torque includes a first plurality of non-patterned conductive regions and a first plurality of patterned conductive regions, and a second plurality of non-patterned conductive regions and a second plurality of patterned conductive regions. The first and second pluralities of non-patterned conductive regions are facing and the first and second pluralities of patterned conductive regions are facing. 1. A capacitive sensor for characterizing at least one of force or torque , comprising:a first non-patterned conductive regions and a first patterned conductive region coupled to a first plate; anda second non-patterned conductive region and a second patterned conductive regions coupled to a second plate;wherein the first and second non-patterned conductive regions are facing each other and operable to detect an out-of-plane movement of the first plate relative to the second plate, and the first and second patterned conductive regions are facing each other and operable to detect an in-plane movement of the first plate relative to the second plate.2. The capacitive sensor of claim 1 , wherein the first non-patterned conductive region is one of a first plurality of non-patterned conductive regions and the first patterned conductive region is one of a first plurality of patterned conductive regions.3. The capacitive sensor of claim 1 , wherein the second non-patterned conductive region is one of a second plurality of non-patterned conductive regions and the second patterned conductive region is one of a second plurality of patterned conductive regions.4. The capacitive sensor of claim 1 , wherein the capacitive sensor measures a lateral translation or a rotation of the first plate relative to the second plate based on the detected in-plane movement.5. The capacitive sensor of claim 1 , wherein the capacitive sensor measures an axial displacement of the first plate relative to the second plate based on the detected out-of-plane ...

POLYROTAXANE COMPOSITION AND SENSOR

The present invention provides a sensor that exhibits a small effect on a detection target during detection, a high detection sensitivity, a wide dynamic range for detection, and a small change after repeated detection, as well as a composition suitable for use in the sensor. 1. A polyrotaxane composition comprising two polyrotaxane cyclic molecules crosslinked with a crosslinking agent present between the molecules , wherein the polyrotaxane composition exhibits a hysteresis loss as a mechanical energy loss rate of 10% or less , an elongation at break of 200% or more , an initial Young's modulus of 5 MPa or less , and a relative dielectric constant of 8.0 or more.2. The polyrotaxane composition according to claim 1 , wherein the crosslinking agent is a polymer having no side chain claim 1 , having a number average molecular weight of 500 or more claim 1 , and having functional groups at both ends of the polymer claim 1 , and the functional groups are directly or indirectly bonded to the polyrotaxane cyclic molecules.3. The polyrotaxane composition according to claim 2 , wherein the polymer is polyether or polyester.4. The polyrotaxane composition according to claim 3 , wherein the polymer is polytetramethylene ether glycol.5. A sensor comprising a film formed of the polyrotaxane composition according to claim 1 , and elastomer-made electrode layers disposed on both surfaces of the film.6. The sensor according to claim 5 , wherein a hysteresis loss of a change in capacitance is 0.5% or less during expansion and contraction of the sensor. The present invention relates to a polyrotaxane composition and a sensor formed of the composition.A polyrotaxane is a molecular assembly having a structure wherein a linear molecule slidably penetrates through a cyclic molecule, and the cyclic molecule is prevented from being removed by blocking groups disposed at both ends of the linear molecule (Patent Document 1). A composition containing a polyrotaxane is expected to be used in ...

APPARATUS FOR SENSING AND MEASURING PRESSURE AND/OR SHEAR COMPONENTS OF A FORCE AT AN INTERFACE BETWEEN TWO SURFACES

Apparatus () for sensing and measuring and/or shear components of a force at an interface between two surfaces, which apparatus () comprises: (i) at least one flexible means () for receiving the pressure and/or shear components of the force; and (ii) transducer means () for producing electrical signals consequent upon movement of the flexible means () in response to the pressure and/or shear components of the force, and the apparatus () being such that: (iii) the flexible means () comprises first and second electrode parts () which are spaced apart by the flexible means (); (iv) the first and second electrode parts () move solely towards each other as a result of the pressure component of the force being applied to the flexible means (); and (v) the first and second electrode parts () move towards and parallel to each other as a result of the shear component of the force being applied to the flexible means ().

SENSOR, STACK-TYPE SENSOR, AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE

A sensor includes a sensor electrode layer including a capacitive sensing unit, a first reference electrode layer provided to face a first surface of the sensor electrode layer, and a first elastic layer that is provided between the first reference electrode layer and the sensor electrode layer, and is configured to be elastically deformed by shear force added in an in-plane direction. At least one of the first reference electrode layer or the first elastic layer includes a first probe portion that is displaced in an in-plane direction in accordance with elastic deformation of the first elastic layer, and changes an electrostatic capacitance of the sensing unit. 1. A sensor comprising:a sensor electrode layer including a capacitive sensing unit;a first reference electrode layer provided to face a first surface of the sensor electrode layer; anda first elastic layer that is provided between the first reference electrode layer and the sensor electrode layer, and is configured to be elastically deformed by shear force added in an in-plane direction,wherein at least one of the first reference electrode layer or the first elastic layer includes a first probe portion that is displaced in an in-plane direction in accordance with elastic deformation of the first elastic layer, and changes an electrostatic capacitance of the sensing unit.2. The sensor according to claim 1 ,wherein the first reference electrode layer includes a protruding portion or a recess facing the first surface, andthe first probe portion is the protruding portion or the recess.3. The sensor according to claim 2 , wherein the sensing unit is provided in a portion facing a peripheral portion of the protruding portion or the recess.4. The sensor according to claim 1 ,wherein the first elastic layer includes a first portion having a first permittivity, and a second portion having a second permittivity different from the first permittivity, in an in-plane direction, andthe first probe portion is the second ...

SURFACE ELEMENT

The invention relates to a surface element (), intended for use as a floor, wall and/or ceiling surface element for a floor, wall and/or ceiling covering, having at least one carrier plate () and at least one functional layer (), wherein the carrier plate () comprises a top side () facing a usable side () and an underside () opposite the top side () and facing the underground (). According to the invention, it is provided that the functional layer () is provided underneath the carrier plate (), and that the functional layer () is designed in such a way that, in the installed state, it projects beyond the side edge () of the side (), in particular of the long side (), on at least one side (), especially on at least one long side (). 1. A surface element , intended for use as a floor , wall and/or ceiling surface element for a floor , wall and/or ceiling covering , having at least one carrier plate and at least one functional layer , wherein the carrier plate comprises a top side facing a usable side and an underside opposite the top side and facing the underground ,whereinthe functional layer is provided underneath the carrier plate, and in that the functional layer is designed in such a way that, in the installed state, it projects beyond the side edge of the side, in particular of the long side, on at least one side, especially on at least one long side.2. The surface element according to claim 1 , wherein on opposite sides of the carrier plate corresponding tongue-and-groove joint geometries claim 1 , especially for the design of a click connection claim 1 , are provided with a groove side comprising a groove and a tongue side opposite the groove side comprising a tongue claim 1 , wherein the functional layer projects beyond the side edge of the groove side in the installed state and/or in that corresponding snap fastener and/or bayonet connection geometries are provided on opposite sides of the carrier plate.3. The surface elements according to claim 1 , wherein ...

TEXTILE PRESSURE SENSOR

A textile pressure sensor for the capacitive measuring of a pressure distribution of objects of any shape, in particular body parts, on a surface is proposed, having a first structure () which is conductive at least in regions and a second structure () which is conductive at least in regions, wherein the first and the second structure which are conductive at least in regions are separated from each other by a dielectric intermediate element (), and wherein conductive regions of the first structure () form capacitors with opposite conductive regions of the second structure (). The textile pressure sensor is distinguished in that the first and/or the second structure () which is conductive at least in regions is designed as a knitted fabric. 1. A textile pressure sensor for the capacitive measuring of a pressure distribution of objects of any shape , in particular body parts , on a surface , having a first structure which is conductive at least in regions and a second structure which is conductive at least in regions , wherein the first and the second structure which are conductive at least in regions are separated from each other by a compressible dielectric intermediate element , and wherein conductive regions of the first structure form capacitors with opposite conductive regions of the second structure , wherein the first and the second structure which are conductive at least in regions are designed as knitted fabrics and comprise in each case a plurality of conductive regions which are joined together by knitted-on , non-conductive regions.2. A textile pressure sensor according to claim 1 , wherein the conductiveregions of the knitted fabric comprise a plurality of adjacent rows of stitches of a conductive yarn or conductive filaments.3. A textile pressure sensor according to claim 1 , wherein the conductive paths of the first structure are arranged at an angle to conductive paths of the second structure claim 1 , and the conductive paths form regions of overlap ...

CAPACITIVE SENSOR SHEET AND CAPACITIVE SENSOR

Provided is a capacitive sensor sheet for use in measuring at least one of an amount of strain due to elastic deformation and a distribution of strain due to elastic deformation, and the capacitive sensor sheet comprises: a dielectric layer; a top electrode layer laminated on the obverse surface of the dielectric layer; and a bottom electrode layer laminated on the reverse surface of the dielectric layer, wherein the dielectric layer is composed of an elastomer composition containing a urethane elastomer, and each of the top electrode layer and the bottom electrode layer is composed of an electroconductive composition containing carbon nanotubes.

SENSOR DEVICE

A sensor device includes a plurality of systems each having a sensor element, and a computation unit configured to calculate as a first value a value of at least one of a force and a moment applied to a detection target in a predetermined axial direction, based on a detection signal detected by the sensor element, and an abnormality determining unit configured to compare the first values calculated by the computation units of the systems with one another, and determine that there is an abnormality if a difference of the first value is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount. The computation unit of at least one of the systems calculates as a second value a value of at least one of a force and a moment applied to the detection target in the axial direction, based on detection signals detected by the sensor elements of the systems. 1. A sensor device comprising:a plurality of systems each having a sensor element configured to detect at least one of an external force and a moment applied to a detection target, and a computation unit configured to calculate as a first value a value of at least one of a force and a moment applied to the detection target in a predetermined axial direction, based on a detection signal detected by the sensor element; andan abnormality determining unit configured to compare the first value calculated by the computation unit of each of the plurality of systems with one another, and to determine that there is an abnormality if a difference of the first value is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount,wherein the computation unit of at least one system of the plurality of systems calculates as a second value a value of at least one of a force and a moment applied to the detection target in the axial direction, based on a plurality of detection signals detected by the respective sensor elements of the plurality of systems.2. The sensor device according to claim 1 , wherein:each of the plurality of systems includes a plurality of ...

Vehicle seat with compensation system

A seat comprising a temperature or a humidity sensor, a foam and a measurement system comprising a capacitive sensor in contact with the foam and adapted for measuring pressure exerted on the foam by the user, a compensation suited to the measured pressure being determined based on a temperature or a humidity provided by the temperature or the humidity sensor.

PRESSURE SENSOR AND DISPLAY DEVICE INCLUDING THE SAME

A pressure sensor including: a first conductor; a second conductor spaced apart from the first conductor, and positioned so as to form a capacitance with the first conductor; and an elastic member positioned between the first conductor and the second conductor, in which the capacitance varies according to a pressure applied to one or more of the first conductor and the second conductor, and the first conductor has a shape different from that of the second conductor. 1. A pressure sensor , comprising:a first conductor;a second conductor spaced apart from the first conductor, and positioned so as to form a capacitance with the first conductor; andan elastic member positioned between the first conductor and the second conductor,wherein the capacitance varies according to a pressure applied to one or more of the first conductor and the second conductor, andwherein the first conductor has a shape different from that of the second conductor.2. The pressure sensor of claim 1 , wherein the first conductor includes:a plurality of loop-type conductive lines; anda plurality of connection conductive lines connected to the loop-type conductive lines.3. The pressure sensor of claim 2 , wherein the loop-type conductive lines include:a first loop-type conductive line;a second loop-type conductive line positioned outside the first loop-type conductive line;a third loop-type conductive line positioned outside the second loop-type conductive line; anda fourth loop-type conductive line positioned outside the third loop-type conductive line.4. The pressure sensor of claim 3 , wherein the connection conductive lines extend from the first loop-type conductive line to the fourth loop-type conductive line.5. The pressure sensor of claim 4 , wherein the first conductor further includes auxiliary conductive lines extending from the second loop-type conductive line to the fourth loop-type conductive line.6. The pressure sensor of claim 4 , wherein the first conductor further includes a ...

PRESSURE SENSOR ELEMENT WITH GLASS BARRIER MATERIAL CONFIGURED FOR INCREASED CAPACITIVE RESPONSE

A method for increasing capacitive response to applied pressure by including a glass layer in the air gap of an improved capacitive sense element. The glass layer has additional thickness compared to previously known capacitive sense elements. The additional thickness is selected to achieve a predetermined increase in dielectric constant across the gap between electrodes. In an illustrative embodiment, the resulting capacitive sense element includes a gap having two dielectric media, air and glass, between the electrodes, wherein the thickness of the glass media in the gap and the thickness of the remaining air gap are predetermined based on the dielectric constant of glass and air to achieve desired capacitive response characteristics of the sensor design. 1. A capacitive sensor apparatus , comprising:a rigid insulator plate;a first electrode formed on the rigid insulator plate;a deformable insulator plate opposite the rigid insulator plate;a second electrode formed on the deformable insulator plate and facing the first electrode;an air gap of less than 15 micrometers between the first electrode and the second electrode; anda glass barrier between the first electrode and the second electrode.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the rigid insulator plate is made of a ceramic material.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the deformable insulator plate is made of a ceramic material.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the first electrode and the second electrode comprise respective metal layer.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein comprising a capacitance of between about 5 pF and about 50 pF between the first electrode and the second electrode when the deformable insulator plate is in an undeformed state.6. The apparatus of claim 1 , comprising a capacitance change of between 0.5 pF and 40 pF in response to deflection of the deformable insulator from an undeformed state to a maximally deformed state.7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the deformable insulator ...

APPARATUS FOR TESTING SKIS OR SNOWBOARDS

The invention relates to a measuring arrangement () for testing skis and snowboards () or sports equipment with a planar contact surface, the arrangement comprising a sensor device, onto which at least one ski or snowboard () or piece of sports equipment can be laid. The sensor device has a sensor surface () which is predominantly sub-divided in a longitudinal and transverse direction into a plurality of sensor-surface sections (), each of said sensor-surface sections () having at least one force sensor which outputs the force acting on the sensor-surface section () as an electrical signal that is evaluated by a computer unit (). 1. A measuring system for testing a ski or snowboard with a flat contact surface , the system comprising:a sensing apparatus onto which at least one ski or snowboard can be placed, the sensing apparatus having a surface mostly subdivided longitudinally and transversely into a plurality of sections each having at least one force sensor that outputs an electrical signal that corresponds to a force acting on the respective section; and a computer connected to the force sensors for receiving input therefrom.2. The measuring system according to claim 1 , wherein the ski or snowboard can be partially loaded with a pressure claim 1 , with a person generating the pressure by his/her weight.3. The measuring system according to claim 2 , wherein the ski or snowboard has footwear that receives a foot of the person.4. The measuring system according to claim 1 , wherein the ski or snowboard is an alpine ski claim 1 , a cross-country ski claim 1 , a snowboard claim 1 , or a jumping ski.5. The measuring system according to claim 1 , wherein the surface has 8 to 1000 of the sections per dm.6. The measuring system according to claim 1 , wherein the force sensors are capacitance sensors claim 1 , resistive sensors claim 1 , piezoelectric sensors or thin-film sensors.7. The measuring system according to claim 1 , wherein the computer is connected to a control ...

WOVEN FABRIC HAVING A PLURALITY OF WOVEN FABRIC LAYERS

A woven fabric having at least three layers that are arranged one above the other. Two of the layers form a first and a second woven fabric layer that each comprises electrically conductive warp threads and/or weft threads. Another one of the layers forms an intermediate layer that is arranged between the first and second woven fabric layers. The first and the second woven fabric layers, together with the intermediate layer, form a sensor arrangement that comprises an electrical characteristic that changes when a force is acting upon the layers. The first and second woven fabric layers each comprises electrically conductive strips and electrically non-conductive strips that extend in a warp direction (K) or in a weft direction (S), with the strips being arranged adjacent to one another in an alternating manner. The strips of the second woven fabric layer extend in a transverse manner with respect to the strips of the first woven fabric layer. 1. A woven fabric having at least three layers that are arranged one above the other ,wherein one of the layers forms a first woven fabric layer that comprises electrically conductive warp threads and/or weft threads,wherein a further one of the layers forms a second woven fabric layer that comprises electrically conductive warp threads and/or weft threads,wherein another further one of the layers forms an intermediate layer that is arranged between the first woven fabric layer and the second woven fabric layer,wherein the first woven fabric layer, the second woven fabric layer and the intermediate layer form a sensor arrangement that comprises an electrical characteristic that changes while a force is acting upon the layers,wherein the first woven fabric layer comprises electrically conductive strips and electrically non-conductive strips that extend in a warp direction (K) or in a weft direction (S), said strips being arranged adjacent to one another in an alternating manner, and wherein the second woven fabric layer ...

TWO DIMENSIONAL MATERIAL-BASED PRESSURE SENSOR

This disclosure provides example methods, devices, and systems for a two dimensional material-based pressure sensor. A sensor device is provided that includes a substrate having a back electrode, a conductive layer in communication with the back electrode, and an insulating layer coupled to the conductive layer. The insulating layer includes one or more cavity regions. A sensor membrane comprising a two-dimensional material is disposed adjacent to the insulating layer and covering at least one of the one or more cavity regions. A first sensing electrode is in electrical communication with a first region of the sensor membrane, and a second sensing electrode is in communication with a second region of the sensor membrane. The sensor membrane is configured to respond to pressure changes exerted on the sensor device. 1. A sensor device comprising: a back-electrode;', 'a conductive layer, in communication with the back-electrode; and', 'an insulating layer coupled to the conductive layer, the insulating layer comprising one or more cavity regions;, 'a substrate that includesa sensor membrane comprising a two-dimensional material and disposed adjacent to the insulating layer and covering at least one of the one or more cavity regions;a first sensing electrode in electrical communication with a first region of the sensor membrane; anda second sensing electrode in communication with a second region of the sensor membrane;wherein the sensor membrane is configured to respond to pressure changes exerted on the sensor device.2. The sensor device of claim 1 , wherein the back-electrode is configured to measure a capacitance change relative to the first or second sensing electrode based on pressure-induced deflection of the sensor membrane.3. The sensor device of claim 1 , wherein the back electrode is configured to accept a controlled voltage for producing an electric field claim 1 , and wherein the sensor membrane is configured to produce a transconductive resistance change ...

TOUCH SENSOR DETECTOR SYSTEM AND METHOD

A touch sensor detector system and method incorporating an interpolated sensor array is disclosed. The system and method utilize a touch sensor array (TSA) configured to detect proximity/contact/pressure (PCP) via a variable impedance array (VIA) electrically coupling interlinked impedance columns (IIC) coupled to an array column driver (ACD), and interlinked impedance rows (IIR) coupled to an array row sensor (ARS). The ACD is configured to select the IIC based on a column switching register (CSR) and electrically drive the IIC using a column driving source (CDS). The VIA conveys current from the driven IIC to the IIC sensed by the ARS. The ARS selects the IIR within the TSA and electrically senses the IIR state based on a row switching register (RSR). Interpolation of ARS sensed current/voltage allows accurate detection of TSA PCP and/or spatial location. 1. A touch sensor, comprising: a grid of sensing elements that are configured to power on simultaneously and to simultaneously generate multiple currents along multiple current paths in response to sensing a touch. This is a continuation patent application of and incorporates by reference United States Utility Patent Application for TOUCH SENSOR DETECTOR SYSTEM AND METHOD by inventors Ilya Daniel Rosenberg and John Aaron Zarraga, filed electronically with the USPTO on Jul. 19, 2017, with Ser. No. 15/653,856, EFSID 29823046, confirmation number 8397, issued as U.S. Pat. No. ______ on ______.This application claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 120 and incorporates by reference United States Utility Patent Application for TOUCH SENSOR DETECTOR SYSTEM AND METHOD by inventors Ilya Daniel Rosenberg and John Aaron Zarraga, filed electronically with the USPTO on Jul. 19, 2017, with Ser. No. 15/653,856, EFSID 29823046, confirmation number 8397, issued as U.S. Pat. No. ______ on ______.This is a continuation patent application of and incorporates by reference United States Utility Patent Application for DIAMOND PATTERNED ...

Electrical Displacement-, Load-, or Force Sensor

Electrical displacement-, load- or force sensor comprising a spring which is subjectable to a mechanical load or force and an inductive sensor element for measuring an electrical parameter that varies depending on said mechanical load or force on the spring, wherein the inductive sensor element is the spring and said spring is placed in series with an electrical circuit comprising in parallel a switching element and an RC circuit. The sensor can then be used to measure the load or force applied to the spring by arranging that the spring is energized through an electrical current flowing through the spring and through the current path with the switching element parallel to the RC circuit, and by subsequently interrupting the current from flowing through the current path parallel to the RC circuit and forcing it to flow through the RC circuit. A voltage decay time of an electrical energy received by the RC circuit upon interruption of the current flowing through the current path parallel to the RC circuit is then measured and used as a measure for the load or force applied to the spring. 1. An electrical displacement- , load- or force sensor comprising a spring forming an inductive sensor element for measuring an electrical parameter that varies depending on a displacement or a mechanical load or force on at least a part of the spring , wherein the spring is placed in series with an electrical circuit comprising in parallel a switching element and an RC circuit.2. The electrical displacement- claim 1 , load- or force sensor according to claim 1 , wherein an electrical parameter relative to the RC circuit is used as a measure for the displacement claim 1 , load or force applied to the spring.3. The electrical displacement- claim 1 , load- or force sensor according to claim 1 , wherein the switching element comprises a first position in which electrical current is enabled to flow through the spring and through the switching element claim 1 , and a second position in ...

MECHANICAL LINK FOR MEMS AND NEMS MECHANICAL STRUCTURE, AND MEMS AND NEMS STRUCTURE COMPRISING SUCH A MECHANICAL LINK

A mechanical link for a microelectromechanical and/or nanoelectromechanical structure, the structure includes a mobile component, a fixed component extending on a main plane and means for detecting the displacement of the mobile component relative to the fixed component, the mechanical link comprising: a first link linked to the fixed component and to the mobile component and capable of allowing the rotation of the mobile component relative to the fixed component about an axis of rotation; a second link connecting the mobile component to the detection means at a given distance relative to the axis of rotation in a direction at right angles to the axis of rotation; a third link linked to the fixed component and to the detection means, and configured to guide the detection means in translation in a direction of translation in the plane of the fixed component; such that the combination of the second link and of the third link is capable of transforming the rotational movement of the mobile component into a translational movement of the detection means in the direction of translation. 2. The mechanical link according to claim 1 , further comprising a transmission component linked to the detection means claim 1 , the second link being linked to the mobile component and to the transmission component.3. The mechanical link according to claim 1 , wherein the first link is an out-of-plane pivot link relative to the plane (OXY) of the fixed component and in that it comprises at least one first blade intended to work by torsion about an axis of rotation and/or at least one second blade intended to work by bending about the axis of rotation claim 1 , each of the first and second blades being linked on one side to the mobile component claim 1 , and on the other side to the fixed component claim 1 , for example using at least one anchoring block.4. The mechanical link according to claim 3 , wherein the at least one first blade is a thick blade.5. The mechanical link according to ...

CAPACITANCE DETECTION DEVICE

A capacitance detection device includes: a sensor unit including a plurality of sensor elements; row control lines; column control lines; a control circuit supplying a charging voltage to the sensor element; and an equipotential circuit outputting a potential equal to the potential of the sensor element subject to measurement. The control circuit applies a charging voltage to the row control line connected to the sensor element and connects the column control line connected to the sensor element to the ground potential side. The control circuit causes the equipotential circuit to set a potential of at least one of the row control lines other than the row control line connected to the sensor element subject to measurement and the column control lines other than the column control line connected to the sensor element subject to measurement to a potential equal to the potential of the sensor element subject to measurement. 1. A capacitance detection device comprising:a sensor unit including a plurality of sensor elements which are arranged two-dimensionally and whose capacitances change;a plurality of row control lines connecting the sensor elements in a row direction and applying to the sensor elements a predetermined charging voltage for detecting the capacitance of the sensor elements;a plurality of column control lines connecting the sensor elements in a column direction and connecting the sensor elements to the ground potential side;a control circuit supplying a charging voltage to the sensor element subject to measurement via the row control lines, measuring a voltage change of the sensor element, and detecting the capacitance of the sensor element based on the voltage change; andan equipotential circuit outputting a signal having a potential equal to a potential of the sensor element subject to measurement, whereinthe control circuitapplies a charging voltage to the row control line connected to the sensor element subject to measurement, connects the column ...

FORCE SENSING CUSHION

A force sensing cushion includes a force senor matrix and a calculating unit. The force sensor matrix is configured to detect stress distribution applied by a user sitting on the force sensing cushion. The calculating unit is connected with the force sensor matrix, and the calculating unit is configured to calculate a stress center of the stress distribution for tracking the posture of the user sitting on the force sensing cushion. 1. A force sensing cushion , comprising:a force sensor matrix configured to detect stress distribution applied by a user sitting on the force sensing cushion; anda calculating unit connected with the force sensor matrix, wherein the calculating unit is configured to calculate a stress center of the stress distribution.2. The force sensing cushion according to claim 1 , wherein the calculating unit is further configured to calculate a variation of the stress center.3. The force sensing cushion according to claim 2 , wherein the variation of the stress comprises a variation in direction.4. The force sensing cushion according to claim 2 , wherein the variation of the stress comprises a movement rate of the stress center.5. The force sensing cushion according to claim 1 , further comprising:a flexible housing, wherein the force sensor matrix is disposed inside the flexible housing.6. The force sensing cushion according to claim 1 , wherein the force sensor matrix comprises force sensor units arranged in a matrix.7. The force sensing cushion according to claim 6 , wherein each of the force sensor units comprises a piezoresistive force sensor unit or a capacitance force sensor unit.8. The force sensing cushion according to claim 6 , wherein each of the force sensor units is configured to detect stress from the user sitting on the force sensing cushion in a vertical direction.9. The force sensing cushion according to claim 1 , further comprising:a transmitter module connected with the calculating unit, wherein the transmitter module is ...

TACTILE SENSOR, AND TACTILE SENSOR UNIT CONSTITUTING TACTILE SENSOR

The present disclosure has an object of providing a tactile sensor having a simple structure and capable of detecting a shear force, and a tactile sensor unit constituting the tactile sensor. The present disclosure relates to a tactile sensor unit including: a plurality of pressure-sensitive elements each including a first substrate including a first electrode, a second electrode disposed facing the first electrode, and a dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode; and an external force acting portion disposed on and across the plurality of pressure-sensitive elements, wherein, when a shear force is applied to the external force acting portion, at least a part of the pressure-sensitive elements change in inter-electrode electrostatic capacitance. 1. A tactile sensor unit comprising: a first substrate including a first electrode,', 'a second electrode disposed facing the first electrode, and', 'a dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode; and, 'a plurality of pressure-sensitive elements each including'}an external force acting portion disposed on and across the plurality of pressure-sensitive elements,wherein, when a shear force is applied to the external force acting portion, at least a part of the pressure-sensitive elements change in inter-electrode electrostatic capacitance.2. The tactile sensor unit of claim 1 , wherein the external force acting portion is disposed claim 1 , in a plan view claim 1 , to overlap with at least a part of each of the plurality of pressure-sensitive elements.3. The tactile sensor unit of claim 1 , wherein the external force acting portion is claim 1 , in a plan view claim 1 , smaller in size than a whole region occupied by the plurality of pressure-sensitive elements.4. The tactile sensor unit of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of pressure-sensitive elements are disposed claim 1 , in a plan view claim 1 , to allow a whole region occupied by the plurality of pressure- ...

PRESSURE SENSING CHAIR

The present invention relates to a pressure sensing chair capable of wireless charging, detecting body pressure, and measuring the distribution of body pressure. A pressure sensing chair according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: at least one sensor unit including a first electrode layer having a plurality of first electrode patterns arranged in a first direction, a second electrode layer having a plurality of second electrode patterns arranged in a second direction crossing the first direction, and a dielectric layer arranged between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer; and a module unit connected to the sensor unit and including a communication unit and a wireless charging unit. 1. A body pressure sensing chair comprising:a sensor unit; anda module unit electrically connected to the sensor unit and including a communication unit and a wireless charging unit,wherein the sensor unit includesa first electrode layer including a plurality of first electrode patterns arranged in a first direction,a second electrode layer including a plurality of second electrode patterns arranged in a second direction crossing the first direction, anda dielectric layer arranged between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer,the plurality of first electrode patterns include regions which overlap the plurality of second electrode patterns, andthe overlap regions are arranged to be spaced apart from each other.2. The body pressure sensing chair of claim 1 , wherein the sensor unit senses a change in a thickness of the dielectric layer in the regions by an external pressure.3. The body pressure sensing chair of claim 1 , wherein the communication unit includes a communication module such as a Bluetooth module claim 1 , a Z-Wave module claim 1 , or the like claim 1 , and transmits pressure information sensed by the sensor unit to a receiver.4. The body pressure sensing chair of claim 1 , wherein the wireless charging unit receives ...

Particulate matter impact sensor

A particulate matter impact sensor ( 301 ) for sensing impacts of particles ( 106 ) comprises a support layer ( 302 ); and a sensing media layer ( 300 ) disposed in front of the support layer ( 302 ).

Input Device Sensor Configuration

Input device configurations are described. In implementations, an input device includes a sensor substrate having a capacitive sensor to detect proximity of an object that contacts the input device. The input device also includes a flexible contact layer spaced apart from the sensor substrate, where the flexible contact layer is implemented to flex and contact the sensor substrate responsive to pressure applied by the object to initiate an input to a computing device. The flexible contact layer can include a force concentrator pad that is designed to cause pressure to be channeled through the force concentrator pad to cause the flexible contact layer to contact the sensor substrate to initiate the input. 1. An input device comprising:a sensor substrate having a capacitive sensor configured to detect proximity of an object that contacts the input device; anda flexible contact layer spaced apart from the sensor substrate, the flexible contact layer configured to flex and contact the sensor substrate responsive to pressure applied by the object to initiate an input to a computing device.2. The input device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the flexible contact layer includes a force concentrator pad configured to cause pressure to be channeled through the force concentrator pad to cause the flexible contact layer to contact the sensor substrate to initiate the input.3. The input device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the capacitive sensor is configured to detect the proximity of the object before the object contacts the input device to initiate the input.4. The input device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the input to the computing device is initiated based on at least one of the capacitive sensor detecting the proximity of the object claim 1 , the pressure applied by the object on the sensor substrate claim 1 , or an input force applied to the flexible contact layer.5. The input device as recited in claim 1 , further comprising at least two conductors that include the ...

ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH ADOPTING FORCE SENSING ARRAY

There is provided an electric toothbrush including a toothbrush head, a toothbrush handle and a force sensing array. The force sensing array is arranged on the toothbrush head and/or the toothbrush handle. When the force sensing array is arranged on the toothbrush head, it is able to detect the force uniformity of brush hairs. When the force sensing array is arranged on the toothbrush handle, it is able to control the vibration strength of the brush hairs and detect the pressing force of the brush hairs. 1. An electric toothbrush , comprising: a substrate laid with multiple sets of drive electrodes and sensing electrodes; and', 'a polymer material layer adhering to the substrate and covering on the multiple sets of drive electrodes and sensing electrodes to form multiple force detecting points;, 'a force sensor, comprisinga toothbrush head, a first surface of the toothbrush head being arranged with the force sensor and multiple bundles of brush hairs respectively opposite to the multiple force detecting points of the force sensor; anda processor, coupled to the multiple force detecting points, and configured to analyze a force uniformity of the multiple bundles of brush hairs according to multiple force values outputted by the multiple force detecting points.2. The electric toothbrush as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the force sensor further comprises an adhesive layer for adhering the polymer material layer to the substrate.3. The electric toothbrush as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the force sensor further comprises multiple bumps arranged on a surface of the polymer material layer not facing the substrate claim 1 , and each of the multiple bumps is corresponding to one set of drive electrode and sensing electrode.4. The electric toothbrush as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the polymer material layer is waterproof material.5. The electric toothbrush as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising a display device claim 1 , wherein the processor is further configured to ...

INPUT DEVICE

An input device includes a plate-shaped substrate that receives an input operation, supports that elastically support the substrate, force sensor units that detect the force applied to the substrate, and an operation body disposed on the substrate. The force sensor units are disposed around the operation body and are spaced apart from each other in different directions with respect to the operation body when the substrate is viewed in plan view. 1. An input device comprising:a plate-shaped substrate that receives an input operation;supports that elastically support the substrate;force sensor units that detect force applied to the substrate; andan operation body disposed on the substrate,wherein the force sensor units are disposed around the operation body and are spaced apart from each other in different directions with respect to the operation body when the substrate is viewed in plan view.2. The input device according to claim 1 ,wherein the substrate has a rectangular shape in plan view, andwherein the force sensor units are each disposed in a vicinity of one of four corners of the substrate.3. The input device according to claim 1 ,wherein the force sensor units each include an elastic member, and a variable resistance portion, a resistance value of which changes in accordance with elastic deformation of the elastic member, andwherein the supports each include an accommodation space, a volume of which elastically changes when force is applied to the substrate, the elastic member being accommodated in the accommodation space.4. The input device according to claim 3 ,wherein the variable resistance portion includes two conductive members in the accommodation space disposed so as to be capable of being in contact with each other, the two conductive members having electric conductivities that are different from each other,wherein at least one of the two conductive members is the elastic member,wherein at least one of the two conductive members has a protruding ...

Electrostatic Capacitance Detection Device Capable of Calculating Shear Force

An electrostatic capacitance detection device is provided, which is provided with a first electrode, an insulating layer on the first electrode, and a second electrode on the insulating layer, the electrostatic capacitance detection device being configured to calculate a shear force applied from above an upper portion of the second electrode. 1. An electrostatic capacitance detection device formed with a first electrode , an insulating layer on the first electrode , and a second electrode on the insulating layer , the electrostatic capacitance detection device configured to calculate a shear force applied from above an upper portion of the second electrode.25-. (canceled)6. The electrostatic capacitance detection device according to claim 1 , whereinthe first electrode is formed of an island-shaped pattern,the second electrode is formed of two layers of an upper second electrode and a lower second electrode, and the upper second electrode and the lower second electrode are formed of a plurality of linear patterns intersecting in a plan view,a portion of the island-shaped pattern of the first electrode overlaps with a portion of the pattern of the upper second electrode and a portion of the pattern of the lower second electrode in a plan view, anda region where a portion of the island-shaped pattern of the first electrode overlaps with a portion of the pattern of the upper second electrode in a planer view is larger than a region where a portion of the island-shaped pattern of the first electrode overlaps with a portion of the pattern of the lower second electrode in a planer view.7. (canceled)8. The electrostatic capacitance detection device according to claim 6 , wherein each of electrodes of the first electrode is connected to each AC drive circuit accordingly claim 6 ,the AC drive circuit is connected via a drive circuit to a processing unit,the AC drive circuit is a circuit that includes two or more inputs configured to receive from the drive circuit and one ...

RIM FOR WHEEL WITH SENSOR AND WHEEL COMPRISING SAID RIM

A rim for wheel is described including a measuring system for detecting the vertical load applied to the wheel. The measuring system includes a sensor adapted to detect a deformation of the rim and to transmit a deformation signal to a processing unit. The processing unit receives an output signal of the sensor related to the deformation of the rim detected, and determines the vertical load applied to the wheel. 112-. (canceled)13. A rim for a wheel , including a measuring system to detect a vertical load applied to the wheel in operating conditions with wheel mounted with horizontal rotation axis ,the measuring system comprising:a sensor to detect a deformation of the rim and to transmit a deformation signal related to the detected deformation, anda processing unit, operatively connected to the sensor, configured to receive the deformation signal, and to determine the vertical load applied to the wheel, based on the deformation of the rim detected by the sensor,{'sub': MIN', 'MAX, 'wherein the processing unit is adapted to detect and store a first Lvalue of absolute minimum, a second Lvalue of absolute maximum and a Lt_med value of relative minimum of the deformation signal generated by said sensor.'}14. The rim according to claim 13 , wherein the sensor is housed in a seat on a surface of the rim and the sensor is adapted to detect a deformation of said seat.15. The rim according to claim 14 , further comprising a plurality of spokes and wherein the seat is obtained on a spoke of the said plurality of spokes.16. The rim according to claim 14 , further including an annular element to house a tyre claim 14 , and a frontal disc applied to the annular element claim 14 , and wherein the seat is obtained on an area of the said disc that faces said annular element.17. The rim according to claim 13 , wherein the sensor is a capacitive type sensor comprising a pair of metal armatures and a dielectric material interposed between said metal armatures.18. The rim According to ...

Dual Capacitor Load Cell

A dual capacitor load cell is presented that includes two coupled capacitors with a common plate between them where the common plate is responsive to a force applied to the load cell. The capacitance of the two capacitors varies inversely and changes in response to the applied force. The combined capacitance of each capacitor is used to determine the magnitude of the force being applied to the load cell. 1. A capacitive based sensor for measuring a received force comprising:a first support beam and a second support beam where the first and the second support beams are horizontally spaced apart and generally parallel;a top capacitive plate disposed horizontally across and attached to the first support beam and the second support beam;a force responsive deflectable plate including a vertically deflectable main portion attached to a first side portion and a second side portion, the first side portion attached to the first support beam, the second side portion attached to the second support beam, the main portion being resiliently connected to the first and the second support beams such that the main portion is configured to move vertically in response to the received force and where the force responsive deflectable plate is located below the top capacitive plate;a bottom capacitive plate disposed horizontally between and attached to the first support beam and the second support beam and located below the force responsive deflectable plate; andwhere the top capacitive plate and the force responsive deflectable plate form a first capacitor, and the bottom capacitive plate and the force responsive deflectable plate form a second capacitor, and the capacitance of the first capacitor and the second capacitor change inversely as the result of movement of the force responsive deflectable plate.2. The sensor of claim 1 , further comprising:a capacitance to digital converter adapted to measure and output the deferential capacitance between the first capacitor and the second ...

Resonant transducer, manufacturing method therefor, and multi-layer structure for resonant transducer

A resonant transducer includes a silicon single crystal substrate, a silicon single crystal resonator disposed over the silicon single crystal substrate, a shell made of silicon, surrounding the resonator with a gap, and forming a chamber together with the silicon single crystal substrate, an exciting module configured to excite the resonator, a vibration detecting module configured to detect vibration of the resonator, a first layer disposed over the chamber, the first layer having a through-hole, a second layer disposed over the first layer, a third layer covering the first layer and the second layer, and a projection extending from the second layer toward the resonator, the projection being spatially separated from the resonator, the projection being separated from the first layer by a first gap, the second layer being separated from the first layer by a second gap, the first gap is communicated with the second gap.

GASKET WITH EMBEDDED CAPACITIVE SENSOR

An electronic device is disclosed. In some examples, the device includes one or more force sensors at its perimeter. The force sensors can be included in a gasket further comprising a rubber-like gasket cover and a compressible dielectric such as air or silicone, for example. A plurality of conductive plates can be embedded in the gasket cover with routing traces coupled thereto to sense a capacitance between the conductive plates. The gasket, including the one or more capacitive sensors, can be disposed between a cover glass and a lower housing of the electronic device. The capacitance of the one or more sensors can change in response to an applied force at the cover glass of the device. The change in capacitance can be sensed via the routing traces to measure the magnitude and, in some examples, location of the applied force. 1. An electronic device comprising:a lower surface;an upper surface; anda force sensing sealing structure situated between the lower surface and the upper surface;sense circuitry operatively coupled to the force sensing sealing structure, the sense circuitry configured to sense a capacitance of the force sensing sealing structure; anda processor configured to determine a magnitude of an applied force at the upper surface of the device based on the sensed capacitance, wherein the lower surface or the upper surface comprises a channel and the force sensing sealing structure is situated in the channel.2. The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein:the channel comprises an inner channel surface and an outer channel surface in contact with the force sensing sealing structure, andthe inner channel surface comprises a gap, wherein the force sensing sealing structure is not in contact with the inner channel surface at a location of the gap.3. The electronic device of claim 2 , further comprising:a routing trace that couples the force sensing sealing structure to the sense circuitry, wherein one or more of the first routing trace or the second routing ...

Apparatus for measuring pressure and/or humidity

The invention relates to an apparatus for measuring pressure and/or humidity, and to a method for measuring pressure and/or humidity. The apparatus comprises at least one sensor for measuring pressure and/or humidity, wherein the sensor comprises at least one capacitor comprising at least two electrodes that are arranged, in particular, in a horizontal direction along and on an, in particular, flexible support material relative to one another. At least one dielectric layer is arranged between the electrodes. The invention is characterised in that at least one at least partially liquid-permeable and/or liquid-absorbing moisture layer is arranged at least in some places on a side, facing away from a support material, of at least one electrode and/or the dielectric layer. The at least one electrode and/or the dielectric layer are thus then arranged between the support material and the moisture layer in a transverse direction. In this way, a capacitance is at least partially changed by the liquid at least partially hitting the dielectric layer, wherein a processing unit is designed and provided to measure and/or store this change, so as to create a capacitive moisture sensor. 2100. Apparatus () according to claim 1 ,characterised in that{'b': 1', '5', '20, 'the sensor () in addition is a capacitive pressure sensor, wherein the processing unit () in addition is designed and provided to measure and/or store a capacitance change in the capacitor () caused by external pressure.'}3100. Apparatus () according to either or claim 1 ,characterised in that{'b': 13', '1', '5, 'the support material () is a woven fabric, in particular into which electrical conductor paths are woven for electrical contact between the sensor () and the processing unit ().'}4100. Apparatus () according to at least one of the preceding claims claim 1 ,characterised in that{'b': 10', '11', '4', '13', '14', '13, 'at least one electrode (, ) and/or the dielectric layer () is printed or applied by means of ...

FINGER PRINT AND PRESSURE DUAL SENSOR AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME

A finger print and pressure dual sensor includes first electrodes disposed on a substrate and extending in a first direction, and source electrodes and drain electrodes disposed to face each other in the first direction; channel regions disposed on the substrate and electrically connected to the source electrode and drain electrode; a first dielectric layer disposed on the substrate, covering the first electrodes, the source electrodes, and the drain electrodes and having first openings for exposing the channel region; second electrodes disposed on the first dielectric layer and extending in a second direction; a second dielectric layer disposed on the first dielectric layer, covering the second electrodes and having second openings for exposing the channel region; gate electrodes disposed on the second dielectric layer, extending in the second direction and disposed on the channel region; and a cover layer disposed on the second dielectric layer and covering the gate electrodes. 1. A finger print and pressure dual sensor comprising:first electrodes disposed on a substrate and extending in a first direction, and source electrodes and drain electrodes disposed to face each other in the first direction;channel regions disposed on the substrate and electrically connected to the corresponding source electrode and drain electrode;a first dielectric layer disposed on the substrate, covering the first electrodes, the source electrodes, and the drain electrodes and having first openings for exposing the channel region;second electrodes disposed on the first dielectric layer and extending in a second direction;a second dielectric layer disposed on the first dielectric layer, covering the second electrodes and having second openings for exposing the channel region;gate electrodes disposed on the second dielectric layer, extending in the second direction and disposed on the channel region so as to correspond to the channel region; anda cover layer disposed on the second ...

SENSOR INCLUDING ELECTRICAL TRANSMISSION-LINE PARAMETER THAT CHANGES RESPONSIVE TO VEHICULAR LOAD

An apparatus includes a sensor assembly. The sensor assembly includes a transmission-line assembly having an electrical transmission-line parameter configured to change, at least in part, in response to reception, at least in part, of a vehicular load of a moving vehicle moving relative to a vehicular roadway to the transmission-line assembly positionable, at least in part, relative to the vehicular roadway. 1a force receiving element with a first surface for receiving a force and a second flat surface;a deformable element connected to the force receiving element and a flat strip; anda gap defined by the distance between the second flat surface and the flat strip;wherein, when a force is applied to the first surface, the gap between the second surface and the flat strip decreases.. A sensor, comprising: This application is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/839,432, filed Dec. 12, 2017, which is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/196,765, filed Mar. 4, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,880,045, which is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/835,797, filed Mar. 15, 2013, which is now U.S. Pat. No. 9,429,463, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/772,138, filed Mar. 4, 2013, the entire content of which is expressly incorporated hereinto by reference.The embodiments disclosed herein relate generally to intelligent transportation systems.Intelligent transportation systems may involve data collection, toll collection, vehicle classification, weigh in motion (WIM), and other traffic monitoring or traffic management systems.For example, WIM systems are used to detect and weigh vehicles in motion in order to enhance the operation of road systems in a safer and more efficient manner.A WIM system uses one or more sensors to obtain information about a vehicle as it is sensed by the sensor, typically as the vehicle moves over the sensor. Some information may be measured directly from a sensor, and ...

TRANSDUCER DEVICE

A transducer device includes a first dielectric layer, a first electrode layer and a second electrode layer that hold the first dielectric layer in a thickness direction, a second dielectric layer provided continuously from the first dielectric layer, a third electrode layer and a fourth electrode layer that hold the second dielectric layer in the thickness direction, and a controller. The controller calculates a command value of voltage to be applied to the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer and applies a voltage corresponding to the command value to the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer so that the first dielectric layer is deformed in the thickness direction. The controller measures a capacitance Cs of the second dielectric layer via the third electrode layer and the fourth electrode layer and calculates the command value in reference to the measured capacitance Cs. 1. A transducer device comprising:a first dielectric layer;a first electrode layer and a second electrode layer that hold the first dielectric layer in a thickness direction;a second dielectric layer on which no external force acts, the second dielectric layer being provided continuously from the first dielectric layer;a third electrode layer and a fourth electrode layer that hold the second dielectric layer in the thickness direction; anda controller that calculates a command value of voltage to be applied to the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer and applies a voltage corresponding to the command value to the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer so that the first dielectric layer is deformed in the thickness direction,wherein the controller measures a capacitance Cs of the second dielectric layer via the third electrode layer and the fourth electrode layer and calculates the command value in reference to the measured capacitance Cs.2. The transducer device according to claim 1 , wherein the controller obtains a relative ...

Force-Sensitive Fingerprint Sensing Input

An object can depress an input device, such as, for example, a function button in an electronic device. A resistive element having a mechanically resistive force can be disposed to resist the depression or movement of the input device. One or more electrodes can be disposed to provide a measure of capacitance based on the depression of the input device. A shield can be disposed to reduce the parasitic capacitance between the one or more electrodes and the object. The electronic device can include a fingerprint sensor operably connected to at least one of the one or more electrodes. 1. An electronic device , comprising:an input device depressible in response to an object;a resistive element having a mechanically resistive force, the resistive element disposed to resist depression of the input device; andone or more electrodes disposed to provide a measure of capacitance based on a depression of the input device.2. The electronic device as in claim 1 , wherein the input device comprises a function button.3. The electronic device as in claim 1 , further comprising a shield that reduces parasitic capacitance between the one or more electrodes and the object.4. The electronic device as in claim 1 , wherein the resistive element comprises an elastomeric substance disposed to resist depression of the input device.5. The electronic device as in claim 1 , further comprising a fingerprint sensor operably connected to at least one electrode.6. The electronic device as in claim 2 , wherein the function button comprises a stack of layers claim 2 , the stack of layers including a lens disposed over an insulator.7. The electronic device as in claim 6 , wherein a shield is included in the stack of layers and is disposed between the lens and the insulator.8. The electronic device as in claim 7 , wherein the one or more electrodes include a first electrode disposed on a first side of the resistive element and a second electrode disposed on a second side of the resistive element claim ...

MECHANICAL STRESS DETECTION DEVICE INCLUDING A CAPACITIVE SENSOR, SET OF DETECTION DEVICES AND TOUCH LOCALIZATION DEVICE INCLUDING CAPACITIVE SENSORS

A mechanical stress detection device includes a capacitive sensor including a first electrode including a first main face, a second electrode including a second main face arranged facing the first main face of the first electrode, an elastic dielectric medium extending between the first main face of the first electrode and the second main face of the second electrode, a mechanism measuring a capacitance at terminals of the two electrodes, and a mechanism compensating mechanical stress in which a fixed part is rigidly connected to one of the first and second electrodes and a movable part relative to the fixed part including an adjustable counterweight is rigidly connected to the other of the first and second electrodes. 110-. (canceled)11. A mechanical stress detection device comprising: a first electrode including a first main face,', 'a second electrode including a second main face arranged facing the first main face of the first electrode,', 'an elastic dielectric medium extending between the first main face of the first electrode and the second main face of the second electrode; and, 'a capacitive sensor includingmeans for measuring a capacitance at terminals of the two electrodes;means for compensating mechanical stress, wherein a fixed part is rigidly connected to one of the first and second electrodes and a movable part relative to the fixed part including an adjustable counterweight is rigidly connected to the other of the first and second electrodes.12. The mechanical stress detection device according to claim 11 , wherein the movable part is movable in rotation about a shaft of the fixed part and includes:a first balance beam arm portion, wherein one end is configured to be in contact with a touch-sensitive surface, anda second counterweight arm portion including the adjustable counterweight, the second arm portion extending on the other side of the shaft of the first part relative to the first arm portion.13. The mechanical stress detection device ...

Touch Force Deflection Sensor

A touch sensitive input system for an electronic device includes a deflection sensor configured to generate a deflection signal based on deflection of a control or sensing surface, and a processor in signal communication with the deflection sensor. The processor is operable to generate a deflection or displacement map characterizing displacement of the surface based on the deflection signal, and a force map characterizing force on the surface based on a transformation of the displacement map. The transformation may be based on a generalized inverse of a compliance operator, where the compliance operator relates the displacement map to the force map. The compliance operator is not necessarily square, and does not necessarily have a traditional inverse. 1. A touch sensitive input system for an electronic device , the system comprising:a deflection sensor disposed with respect to a sensing surface of the electronic device, the deflection sensor configured to generate a deflection signal based on deflection of the sensing surface; anda processor in signal communication with the deflection sensor, the processor operable to generate a displacement map characterizing deflection of the sensing surface based on the deflection signal, the processor further configured to generate a force map characterizing force on the sensing surface based on a transformation of the displacement map;wherein the transformation of the displacement map comprises a generalized inverse of a compliance operator relating the displacement map to the force map.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the compliance operator has a rectangular representation claim 1 , such that the compliance operator has no inverse.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the compliance operator has more rows than columns claim 1 , the rows corresponding to entries in the displacement map and the columns corresponding to entries in the force map.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the deflection sensor comprises an array of ...

Force sensing device and display device comprising the same

According to one embodiment, a force sensing device includes a first insulating layer, a first electrode layer on the first insulating layer, a second electrode layer provided in opposition to the first electrode layer, and an elastic layer held between one or both of the first insulating layer and the first electrode layer, and the second electrode layer, and configured to prevent the first and second electrode layers from coming into contact with each other even while allowing the first and second electrode layers to get close to each other. When the first electrode layer or the second electrode layer is pressed, the pressing force is sensed on the basis of a variation in the capacitance between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer.

FORCE-SENSING CAPACITOR ELEMENTS, DEFORMABLE MEMBRANES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES FABRICATED THEREFROM

Force-sensing capacitor elements and deformable membranes useful in electronic devices that include touch screen displays or other touch sensors. The deformable membranes, generally, include a first, second, and third layers with a first arrangement of a plurality of first structures interposed between the first and third layers and a second arrangement of one or more second structures interposed between the second and third layers. Electrodes may be included proximate to or in contact with one or more of the major surfaces of the first, second, and third layers or embedded within one or more of the second and third layers of the deformable membranes, yielding force-sensing capacitor elements. The electrodes proximate to or in contact with the one or more of the major surfaces of the first and second layers or embedded within one or more of the second and third layers may be one or more plurality of electrodes. 1. A deformable membrane for a force-sensing capacitor element comprising:a first layer having first and second major surfaces;a second layer having first and major second surfaces;a third layer having first and second major surfaces interposed between the second major surface of the first layer and the second major surface of the second layer;a first arrangement comprising a plurality of first structures, with corresponding first void regions, interposed between the second major surface of the first layer and the first major surface of the third layer, wherein each first structure has a first surface facing the second major surface of the first layer and a second surface facing the first major surface of the third layer, and wherein the first structures of the first arrangement have corresponding imaginary axes aligned perpendicular to and running through the centroids of their first surfaces;a second arrangement comprising one or more second structures, with corresponding second void regions, interposed between the second major surface of the second layer ...

FORCE DETECTION APPARATUS

A force detection apparatus includes: a force detector that includes an electrode and a conductor facing the electrode across a first and a second layers and outputs a force signal value before correction; and a force detection controller outputting a force signal value after correction having a linear relationship with a force. In a first range of force in which the first layer is deformed and the second layer is not deformed, the force detection controller calculates the force signal value after correction, based on a product of the force and a first constant. In a second range of force in which the first and second layers are deformed, the force detection controller calculates the force signal value after correction, based on a sum of a product of a threshold and the first constant and a product of a difference between the force and the threshold and a second constant. 1. A force detection apparatus comprising:a force detector that outputs a force signal value before correction that indicates a force applied to an input surface by an object to be detected; anda force detection controller that outputs a force signal value after correction having a linear relationship with the force, an electrode facing the input surface, and', 'a conductor facing the electrode across a first layer and a second layer that are deformable by the force, and, 'wherein the force detector includes'}wherein, in a first range of force in which the first layer is deformed and the second layer is not deformed, the force detection controller calculates the force signal value after correction, based on a product of the force and a predetermined first constant, andwherein, in a second range of force in which the first layer and the second layer are deformed, the force detection controller calculates the force signal value after correction, based on a sum of a first product and a second product, the first product being a product of a force threshold indicating a boundary between the first range ...

Inertial and pressure sensors on single chip

In one embodiment, the process flow for a capacitive pressures sensor is combined with the process flow for an inertial sensor. In this way, an inertial sensor is realized within the membrane layer of the pressure sensor. The device layer is simultaneously used as z-axis electrode for out-of-plane sensing in the inertial sensor, and/or as the wiring layer for the inertial sensor. The membrane layer (or cap layer) of the pressure sensor process flow is used to define the inertial sensor sensing structures. Insulating nitride plugs in the membrane layer are used to electrically decouple the various sensing structures for a multi-axis inertial sensor, allowing for fully differential sensing.

PRESSURE SENSOR AND ELECTRONIC APPARATUS

A pressure sensor is a pressure sensor that includes: a capacitive sensor electrode layer that includes a plurality of sensing units; a first reference electrode layer that faces a first surface of the sensor electrode layer; a second reference electrode layer that faces a second surface of the sensor electrode layer; an elastic layer disposed between the first reference electrode layer and the sensor electrode layer; and a gap layer disposed between the second reference electrode layer and the sensor electrode layer. In the pressure sensor, the sensor electrode layer, the first reference electrode layer, and the second reference electrode layer have a slit. 1. A pressure sensor comprising:a sensor electrode layer that is of a capacitive type and includes a plurality of sensing units;a first reference electrode layer that faces a first surface of the sensor electrode layer;a second reference electrode layer that faces a second surface of the sensor electrode layer;an elastic layer disposed between the first reference electrode layer and the sensor electrode layer; anda gap layer disposed between the second reference electrode layer and the sensor electrode layer,wherein the sensor electrode layer, the first reference electrode layer, and the second reference electrode layer have a slit.2. The pressure sensor according to claim 1 , whereinthe sensor electrode layer includes:a trunk portion; anda plurality of branch portions extending like branches from the trunk portion, andthe slit is disposed between adjacent ones of the branch portions.3. The pressure sensor according to claim 1 , whereinthe first reference electrode layer and the second reference electrode layer have two end portions facing each other, andthe slit extends inward from the two end portions facing each other.4. The pressure sensor according to claim 1 , whereinextending directions of the slit of the sensor electrode layer and the slit of the first reference electrode layer differ from each other, ...

INTEGRATION OF STRESS DECOUPLING AND PARTICLE FILTER ON A SINGLE WAFER OR IN COMBINATION WITH A WAFERLEVEL PACKAGE

A semiconductor device and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. The semiconductor device includes a substrate having a first surface and a second surface arranged opposite to the first surface; a stress-sensitive sensor disposed at the first surface of the substrate, where the stress-sensitive sensor is sensitive to mechanical stress; a stress-decoupling trench that has a vertical extension that extends from the first surface into the substrate, where the stress-decoupling trench vertically extends partially into the substrate towards the second surface although not completely to the second surface; and a plurality of particle filter trenches that vertically extend from the second surface into the substrate, wherein each of the plurality of particle filter trenches have a longitudinal extension that extends orthogonal to the vertical extension of the stress-decoupling trench. 1. A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device , the method comprising:performing a frontend fabrication of a semiconductor substrate having a first surface and a second surface arranged opposite to the first surface, the frontend fabrication including integrating a first stress-sensitive sensor disposed at the first surface of the substrate, and forming a first stress-decoupling trench in the substrate, wherein the first stress-decoupling trench has a vertical extension that extends from the first surface into the substrate, wherein the first stress-decoupling trench vertically extends partially into the substrate towards the second surface although not completely to the second surface; andforming a plurality of particle filter trenches at the second surface of the substrate, wherein the plurality of particle filter trenches vertically extend from the second surface into the substrate, wherein each of the plurality of particle filter trenches have a longitudinal extension that extends orthogonal to the vertical extension of the first stress-decoupling trench, andwherein each ...

Mobile Electronic Device with Squeeze Detection

A force sensing compliant enclosure for an electronic device may include at least one deformable housing wall. At least one strain concentration portion may be located on the deformable housing wall where strain caused by application of a force that deforms the deformable housing wall is greater than at other portions of the deformable housing wall. The strain concentrating portion may have a second thickness that is thinner than other portions of the deformable housing wall. One or more sensors may be positioned in the strain concentration portion and may sense strain caused by the application of the force that deforms the deformable housing wall. 120-. (canceled)21. An electronic device , comprising:a housing defining a sidewall;an array of strain concentration features distributed along the sidewall, each strain concentration feature configured to concentrate strain at a respective strain concentration point in response to a deformation of the sidewall; andan array of strain sensors, each strain sensor coupled to a respective one strain concentration point.22. The electronic device of claim 21 , wherein the sidewall has a first thickness and each strain concentration feature of the array of strain concentration features has a second thickness.23. The electronic device of claim 21 , wherein at least one strain sensor is adhered to its respective strain concentration point.24. The electronic device of claim 21 , wherein at least one strain concentration feature comprises a rectangular profile.25. The electronic device of claim 21 , wherein at least one strain concentration feature of the array of strain concentration features comprises a curved profile.26. The electronic device of claim 21 , wherein the array of strain concentration features is aligned in a row along a length of the sidewall.27. The electronic device of claim 21 , wherein the sidewall is adjacent to a display.28. The electronic device of claim 21 , wherein each strain sensor of the array of strain ...

RESILIENT COUPLING DEVICE

The disclosure provides a resilient coupling device, having an inner shaft member inserted into an outer tube member. The inner shaft member and the outer tube member are resiliently coupled in the radial direction by a main rubber resilient body. The inner shaft member has a tubular portion and is inserted into an inner hole of the tubular portion, the outer tube member has an insertion shaft member extending in the axial direction, and an outer peripheral surface of the insertion shaft member and an inner peripheral surface of the tubular portion are separated from and face one another in the radial direction. A first and second electrodes are respectively provided on the inner peripheral surface of the tubular portion and the outer peripheral surface of the insertion shaft member, to constitute a first sensor detecting an electrical change due to a relative displacement between the first and second electrodes. 1. A resilient coupling device , comprising:an outer tube member, having an insertion shaft member extending in an axial direction;an inner shaft member, inserted into the outer tube member and provided with a tubular portion, and the insertion shaft member being inserted into an inner hole of the tubular portion in the inner shaft member, an outer peripheral surface of the insertion shaft member and an inner peripheral surface of the tubular portion in the inner shaft member being separated from and facing one another in the radial direction;a main rubber resilient body, resiliently coupling the inner shaft member and the outer tube member are resiliently coupled in a radial direction;a first electrode, provided on the inner peripheral surface of the tubular portion in the inner shaft member;a second electrode, provided on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion shaft member of the outer tube member; anda first sensor, detecting an electrical change that accompanies a relative displacement of the first electrode and the second electrode and being ...

CELLDRUM ELECTRODE ARRANGEMENT FOR MEASURING MECHANICAL STRESS

The invention pertains to a CellDrum electrode arrangement for measuring mechanical stress, comprising a mechanical holder () and a non-conductive membrane (), whereby the membrane () is at least partially fixed at its circumference to the mechanical holder (), keeping it in place when the membrane () may bend due to forces acting on the membrane (), the mechanical holder () and the membrane () forming a container, whereby the membrane () within the container comprises an cell-membrane compound layer or biological material () adhered to the deformable membrane which in response to stimulation by an agent may exert mechanical stress to the membrane () such that the membrane bending stage changes whereby the container may be filled with an electrolyte, whereby an electric contact () is arranged allowing to contact said electrolyte when filled into to the container, whereby within a predefined geometry to the fixing of the membrane () an electrode () is arranged, whereby the electrode () is electrically insulated with respect to the electric contact () as well as said electrolyte, whereby mechanical stress due to an agent may be measured as a change in capacitance. 1. A CellDrum electrode arrangement for measuring mechanical stress , comprisinga mechanical holder anda non-conductive membrane, whereby the membrane is at least partially fixed at its circumference to the mechanical holder, keeping it in place when the membrane may bend and/or stretch due to forces acting on the membrane,the mechanical holder and the membrane forming a container,whereby the membrane within the container comprises an cell-membrane compound layer of biological material adhered to the deformable membrane which in response to stimulation by an agent may exert mechanical stress to the membrane such that the membrane bending stage changeswhereby the container may be filled with an electrolyte,whereby an electric contact is arranged allowing to contact said electrolyte when filled into to the ...

TOUCH SENSING DEVICE CAPABLE OF PERFORMING TOUCH SENSING AND FORCE SENSING USING SINGLE SENSING STRUCTURE AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE INCLUDING THE SAME

A touch sensing device, applicable to an electric device including a touch member integrated with a housing, includes an inductor element spaced apart from an internal side surface of the touch member, a support member attached to an internal side surface of the housing or the touch member to support the inductor element disposed thereon, a substrate on which the inductor element is mounted, the substrate being disposed on the support member, and a circuit part connected to the inductor element and configured to detect a touch input and a touch-force input in response to different frequency change characteristics depending on the touch input and the touch-force input through the touch member. 1. A touch sensing device applicable to an electric device comprising a touch member disposed in a housing , the touch sensing device comprising:an inductor element spaced apart from an internal side surface of the touch member;a support member disposed on an internal side surface of the housing or the touch member to support the inductor element disposed thereon;a substrate on which the inductor element is disposed, the substrate being disposed on the support member; anda circuit part connected to the inductor element and configured to detect a touch input and a touch-force input in response to different frequency change characteristics depending on the touch input and the touch-force input through the touch member.2. The touch sensing device of claim 1 , wherein the substrate is disposed between the support member and the inductor element.3. The touch sensing device of claim 1 , wherein the circuit part comprises an amplifier circuit of an oscillation circuit and an operation detection circuit claim 1 ,wherein the oscillation circuit further comprises a capacitor element disposed on the substrate, and comprises the amplifier circuit, comprised in the circuit part, to generate an oscillation signal, comprising first frequency change characteristics in response to parasitic ...

Integrated electronic device for monitoring pressure within a solid structure

The integrated electronic device detects the pressure related to a force applied in a predetermined direction within a solid structure. The device includes an integrated element that is substantially orthogonal to the direction of application of the force. First and second conductive elements are configured to face an operating surface. A measure module includes first and second measurement terminals which are electrically connected to the first and second conductive elements, respectively. A detecting element is arranged in the predetermined direction such that the operating surface is sandwiched between the first and second conductive elements and this detecting element. An insulating layer galvanically insulates the first and second conductive elements. A layer of dielectric material is sandwiched between the detecting element and the insulating layer, and is elastically deformable following the application of the force to change an electromagnetic coupling between the detecting element and the first and second conductive elements.

FORCE SENSOR

A cylindrical annular detector is disposed at the periphery of the columnar body fixed at a central part of the upper surface of a supporting substrate. A space between the columnar body and the annular detector is connected by a thin flexible connection member (diaphrapm). A washer-shaped insulation substrate is disposed on the upper surface of the supporting substrate, individual fixed electrodes are formed on the upper surface thereof, and they constitute capacitive elements together with a displacement electrode which is composed of the lower surface of the annular detector. Upon exertion of an external force on the annular detector, the flexible connection member deflects to cause displacement, which is detected as change in capacitance value of the capacitive element. 1. A force sensor comprising:a supporting substrate;an annular detector which is disposed above the supporting substrate;a columnar body which extends upward from a central part of an upper surface of the supporting substrate;a flexible connection member which connects the columnar body with the annular detector;detection elements, each of which outputs a measurement value according to displacement of the annular detector with respect to the supporting substrate; anda detection circuit which detects an exerted external force on the basis of the measurement value;the force sensor having such functions that when an external force is exerted on the annular detector in a state that the supporting substrate is fixed, the flexible connection member undergoes deflection, by which the annular detector gives displacement to the supporting substrate and the detection circuit detects the external force on the basis of change in the measurement value resulting from the displacement, andthe force sensor further comprising:an external protrusion portion which protrudes further outside from an outer circumferential part of the annular detector; anda displacement control portion which is fixed at a position ...

MEMS CAPACITIVE SHEAR SENSOR SYSTEM HAVING AN INTERFACE CIRCUIT

A sensor system comprising a Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS)-based capacitive floating element shear stress sensor, the associated packaging, and the interface circuitry required for operation as an instrumentation-grade sensing system is disclosed herein. One implementation of the interface circuitry is an analog synchronous modulation/demodulation scheme enabling time-resolved measurements of both mean and dynamic wall shear stress events, where a modulation section couples to the sensor for sensing wall shear stress at the surface of an object in a fluid and generates at least one bias signal from the sensor output signal. In response to the bias signal, a demodulation control circuit adjusts the phase of the bias signal and generates a demodulation control signal from the phase adjusted signal. Consequently, in response to the demodulation control signal, a demodulation section synchronizes the rectification of the sensor output signal, while the phase information is maintained. 1. A shear-stress sensor system comprising:a sensor, wherein the sensor senses a wall shear stress at a surface of an object in a fluid and generates a sensor output signal; and a modulation section for biasing the sensor, wherein the modulation section generates at least one bias signal applied to the sensor,', 'a demodulation section for demodulating the sensor output signal, wherein the demodulation section comprises a rectification unit, wherein the rectification unit rectifies the sensor output signal, and', 'a demodulation control section, wherein the demodulation control section outputs a demodulation control signal,', 'wherein the demodulation control section includes a phase adjustment unit, the phase adjustment unit generates a phase adjusted signal in response to the at least one biasing signal,', 'wherein the phase adjusted signal is further processed to produce the demodulation control signal, wherein the rectification unit receives the demodulation control signal ...

VIBRATION AND DYNAMIC ACCELERATION SENSING USING CAPACITORS

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus comprising at least one sensing capacitor and a controller, wherein the controller is configured to receive a signal from the at least one sensing capacitor indicative of a change of charge of the sensing capacitor, and wherein the controller is configured to determine an amount of force applied to the sensing capacitor, an acceleration of the sensing capacitor, a torsion of the sensing capacitor, a vibration of the sensing capacitor or a pulling force applied to the sensing capacitor based on the change of charge of the at least one sensing capacitor. 1. Apparatus comprising:at least one sensing capacitor, anda controller, whereinthe controller is configured to receive a signal from the at least one sensing capacitor indicative of a change of charge of the sensing capacitor, and wherein the controller is configured to determine an amount of force applied to the sensing capacitor, an acceleration of the sensing capacitor, a torsion of the sensing capacitor, a vibration of the sensing capacitor or a pulling force applied to the sensing capacitor based on the change of charge of the at least one sensing capacitor.2. Apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprisinga charge amplifier connected between the at least one sensing capacitor and the controller.3. Apparatus according to claim 2 , characterized in thatthe charge amplifier comprises at least a first operational amplifier.4. Apparatus according to claim 3 , further comprisingat least one first capacitor is connected between the output of the operational amplifier and the inverting input of the first operational amplifier.5. Apparatus according to claim 2 , characterized in thatthe charge amplifier comprises at least a first and at least a second operational amplifier, wherein the inverting input of the first operational amplifier is connected to the first terminal of the at least one sensing capacitor and the inverting input of the second operational amplifier is ...

APPARATUS FOR DETECTING ELECTRICAL CONDUCTANCE

An example method includes causing an actuator to apply a compressive force to an object. The compressive force pushes a first electrode against a first end of the object and causes a second end of the object to push against a second electrode. The method further includes detecting an initial magnitude of the compressive force. The method further includes, in response to determining that the initial magnitude of the compressive force is outside of a predetermined range of magnitude, causing the actuator to adjust the compressive force applied to the object. The method further includes detecting a magnitude of the adjusted compressive force. The method further includes, in response to determining that the magnitude of the adjusted compressive force is within the predetermined range of magnitude, detecting a conductance of the object via the first electrode and the second electrode. 1. A method for detecting an electrical conductance of an object , the method comprising:causing, via a control system, an actuator to apply a compressive force to the object, wherein the compressive force pushes a first electrode against a first end of the object and causes a second end of the object to push against a second electrode;detecting, via a load cell, an initial magnitude of the compressive force;in response to determining that the initial magnitude of the compressive force is outside of a predetermined range of magnitude, causing, via the control system, the actuator to adjust the compressive force applied to the object;detecting, via the load cell, a magnitude of the adjusted compressive force; andin response to determining that the magnitude of the adjusted compressive force is within the predetermined range of magnitude, detecting a conductance of the object via the first electrode and the second electrode.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein causing the actuator to apply the compressive force comprises the control system providing a control signal to a motor of the actuator. ...

DEVICE WITH ELECTRODE CONNECTED TO THROUGH WIRE, AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME

A capacitive transducer includes a substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the substrate including a through wire extending therethrough between the first surface and the second surface, and a cell on the first surface, the cell including a first electrode and a second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode with a gap between the first electrode and the second electrode. Conductive protective films are disposed over surfaces of the through wire on the first surface side and the second surface side of the substrate. 1. A capacitive transducer comprising:a substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the substrate including a through wire extending therethrough between the first surface and the second surface; anda cell on the first surface, the cell including a first electrode and a second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode with a gap between the first electrode and the second electrode,wherein a conductive protective film is disposed over a surface of the through wire on the first surface side of the substrate, and a conductive protective film is disposed over a surface of the through wire on the second surface side of the substrate.2. The capacitive transducer according to claim 1 , wherein each of the conductive protective films comprises a multilayer film having two or more layers.3. The capacitive transducer according to claim 1 , wherein the surfaces of the through wire are recessed from the first surface and the second surface of the substrate.4. The capacitive transducer according to claim 1 , further comprising an electrode pad configured to be electrically connected to the through wire via either of the conductive protective films.5. The capacitive transducer according to claim 1 , further comprising a wire configured to be electrically connected to the through wire via either of the conductive protective films.6. The capacitive transducer according to claim ...

A TACTILE SENSOR AND A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THEREOF

A capacitive or resistive tactile sensor having a conductive membrane, a flexible dielectric or weakly conductive sheet and a substrate having electrodes, and a method of manufacturing thereof. The flexible sheet has a first surface and an opposite second surface, the first surface and the second surface are uniformly distanced when at rest. The first surface is adapted to contact one of the conductive membrane or the substrate. The second surface is adapted to contact another one of the conductive membrane or the substrate. The body defines between the first and second surfaces, at a predetermined region, a plurality of laser ablated uniform cavities that are evenly distributed and operatively identical in order to provide a known compression index at the predetermined region of the flexible sheet. The substrate has uniformly distributed static pressure sensing electrodes and at least one uniformly spread dynamic pressure sensing electrode, which is located between the static pressure sensing electrodes, and is used for measuring a voltage or a current variation with the conductive membrane according to the deformation of the flexible sheet. 1. A method of manufacturing a compressible sheet made from a dielectric material or a weakly conductive material for a sensor adapted to measure either a localized change in capacitance or conductivity corresponding to an applied pressure on the compressible sheet , the method comprising:positioning a flexible sheet made from a dielectric material or a weakly conductive material in a laser ablation machine;determining a least one ablation path according to a desired pattern of cavities and according to a size and a shape of each cavity of the desired pattern of cavities;adjusting parameters of the laser ablation machine according to the at least one ablation path and at least one property of the flexible sheet;ablating the flexible sheet with the ablation machine according to the adjusted parameters and forming the ...

ELECTRONIC DEVICE INCLUDING DISPLAY EQUIPPED WITH FORCE SENSOR

An electronic device includes a housing that includes a first surface facing a first direction, a second surface facing a second direction that is opposite the first direction, and a transparent member forming at least part of the first surface, a display that is interposed between the first surface and the second surface of the housing and is exposed through the transparent member, and a force sensor that is interposed between the display and the second surface of the housing. 1. An electronic device comprising:a housing including a first surface facing a first direction and a second surface facing a second direction opposite the first direction, wherein the housing includes a transparent member forming at least part of the first surface;a display interposed between the first surface and the second surface of the housing and exposed through the transparent member; anda force sensor interposed between the display and the second surface of the housing, a first electrode layer disposed on a surface of the display facing the second direction, the first electrode layer substantially in parallel with the display;', 'a second electrode layer spaced apart from the first electrode layer in the second direction, the second electrode layer substantially in parallel with the first electrode layer; and', 'an opaque adhesive member interposed between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer., 'wherein the force sensor includes2. The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the opaque adhesive member includes an opaque material and an adhesive material claim 1 , andwherein the first electrode layer contacts a first surface of the opaque adhesive member in the first direction, and the second electrode layer contacts a second surface of the opaque adhesive member in the second direction.3. The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the opaque adhesive member includes:a first adhesive layer in contact with the first electrode layer;a second adhesive layer spaced apart ...

COMPONENTS CONFIGURED TO AUTONOMOUSLY DETECT AND ACCOMMODATE STRUCTURAL CHANGES

A component has a first structural configuration and a second structural configuration. The component includes a sensor assembly including a plurality of interconnected structural members defining a plurality of load paths. A first structural member and a second structural member define a first load path when the component is in the first structural configuration. The first structural member and a third structural member define a second load path when the component is in the second structural configuration. The second load path is configured to bypass the second structural member. The sensor assembly is configured to detect a characteristic of the component that changes when the component switches between the first structural configuration and the second structural configuration. 1. A component having a first structural configuration and a second structural configuration , said component comprising: a first structural member;', 'a second structural member coupled to said first structural member, wherein said first structural member and said second structural member define a first load path when said component is in the first structural configuration; and', 'a third structural member coupled to said first structural member, wherein said first structural member and said third structural member define a second load path when said component is in the second structural configuration, and wherein the second load path is configured to bypass said second structural member,, 'a sensor assembly including a plurality of interconnected structural members defining a plurality of load paths, said plurality of interconnected structural members comprisingwherein said sensor assembly is configured to detect a characteristic of said component that changes when said component switches between the first structural configuration and the second structural configuration.2. The component in accordance with claim 1 , wherein said sensor assembly comprises at least one terminal coupled to ...

Piezo Based Force Sensing

Systems for detecting an amount and/or location of a force applied to a device using a piezoelectric film are provided. One example system can include a transparent piezoelectric film for generating an electric charge in response to a deformation of the film. Electrodes positioned on opposite surfaces of the piezoelectric film can be used to detect the generated electric charge and determine an amount and/or location of force applied to the film based on the generated electric charge. In another embodiment, the system can include a capacitive touch sensor for determining a location of a touch event on the device. 120-. (canceled)21. A display stack , comprising:a cover material defining an outer surface of the display stack and configured to receive a touch input from a user;a touch input sensor substrate below the cover material;a first touch input sensor electrode disposed on a first surface of the touch input sensor substrate;a second touch input sensor electrode disposed on a second surface of the touch input sensor substrate;a light-emitting layer below the touch input sensor substrate;a force sensor layer below the light-emitting layer;a first force sensor electrode disposed on the force sensor layer;a second force sensor electrode disposed on the force sensor layer and aligned with the first force sensor electrode; andsense circuitry operable to detect an electric charge generated by the force sensor layer in response to a deformation of the force sensor layer and the light-emitting layer that results from the touch input.22. The display stack of claim 21 , wherein:the touch input sensor is coupled to the cover via a first adhesive layer;the light-emitting layer is coupled to the touch input sensor a second adhesive layer; andthe force sensor layer is coupled to the light-emitting layer via a third adhesive layer.23. The display stack of claim 22 , wherein the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer comprise an optically clear adhesive.24. The ...

Pneumatic-based tactile sensor

A pneumatic-based tactile sensor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes: a tactile sense transmitting pneumatic unit for generating pneumatic pressure by an external load applied to a first side; and a tactile sense receiving sensor unit for measuring the load by transforming a magnitude of pneumatic pressure of the tactile sense transmitting pneumatic unit into a displacement.

Electroactive Polymer Pressure Sensor for Load Measurement

An example pressure sensor is described. The pressure sensor includes a capacitor, a first of ridges formed on a first side of the capacitor, and a second set of ridges formed on a second side of the capacitor. The first set of ridges extends outward from the first side of the capacitor and defines a plurality of grooves. The second set of ridges extends outward from the second side of the capacitor. Ridges of the second set of ridges are aligned with grooves of the plurality of grooves such that, when a force is applied to the capacitor, the force increases a surface area of the capacitor by corrugating the capacitor along the first set of ridges and the second set of ridges.

Flexible Capacitive Sensing Mat Including Spacer Fabric

Disclosed herein are capacitive sensors, and methods for their operation, that determine the presence of a user by detecting input forces and/or pressures. Capacitive sensors may be in the form of a flexible capacitive sensing mat. An electronic device incorporating a flexible capacitive sensing mat may include spacer fabric disposed between conductive layers. The spacer fabric may have a first thickness and may be configured to compress to at least a second thickness when a threshold pressure is applied to the layered sensor and revert to the first thickness when the threshold pressure is no longer applied to the flexible mat. A capacitive sense circuit electrically coupled to the second conductive layer and configured to generate a presence detection signal when the spacer fabric layer compresses to the second thickness may additionally be provided.

Force transducer forming a capacitive load cell

A force transducer, in particular a load cell, includes a spring body that deforms when loaded with a force or load to be measured. Two support parts, which are separated by a gap, are moved out of a position of rest. A capacitive displacement detector is used to detect the relative movement of the support parts, where the capacitor includes two electrode combs that are each held on one of the support parts and includes a multiplicity of electrode fingers. The electrode combs are configured designed and mounted on the two support parts such that the electrode fingers of the one electrode comb pass into the finger interspaces of the other electrode comb when the spring body is loaded so that the force transducer is resistant to overloading.

CAPACITIVE FOOT PRESENCE SENSING FOR FOOTWEAR

A foot presence sensor system for an active article of footwear can include a sensor housing configured to be disposed at or in an insole of the article, and a controller circuit, disposed within the sensor housing, configured to trigger one or more automated functions of the footwear based on a foot presence indication. In an example, the sensor system includes a capacitive sensor configured to sense changes in a capacitance signal in response to proximity of a body. A dielectric member can be provided between the capacitive sensor and the body to enhance an output signal from the sensor. 1. A method for controlling active footwear , the method comprising:receiving a sensor signal from a capacitive sensor that is coupled to an article of footwear, wherein the capacitive sensor is configured to sense information over time about a changing position of a foot during a donning event as the foot enters the article and when the foot is spaced apart from the capacitive sensor;using a processor circuit, identifying values of the sensor signal from different times: andusing the processor circuit, determining whether the foot is present in or absent from the article using the identified values of the sensor signal from different times.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining whether the foot is present in or absent from the article includes determining a magnitude relationship between first and subsequent second values of the sensor signal.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein determining whether the foot is present in or absent from the article includes determining whether the subsequent second value of the sensor signal differs from the first value of the sensor signal by more than a specified difference amount.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining whether the foot is present in or absent from the article includes using information about a morphology of the sensor signal over time.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining whether the foot is present in or ...

FORCE DETECTION DEVICE, FORCE DETECTION SYSTEM, AND MANUFACTURING METHOD OF FORCE DETECTION DEVICE

A force detection device includes: a substrate; a plurality of force sensors formed on the substrate; and a fixing member that fixes the substrate. The fixing member fixes the substrate in a folded state. The fixing member fixes the substrate in a randomly folded state or a regularly folded state. The plurality of force sensors is formed on the substrate by being distributed two-dimensionally thereon. The substrate is a flexible substrate. The fixing member is a resin. 1. A force detection device , comprising:a substrate;a plurality of force sensors disposed on the substrate; anda fixing member that fixes the substrate therein in a folded state.2. The force detection device according to claim 1 , wherein the fixing member fixes the substrate in a randomly folded state.3. The force detection device according to claim 1 , wherein the fixing member fixes the substrate in a regularly folded state.4. The force detection device according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of force sensors is formed on the substrate by being distributed two-dimensionally thereon.5. The force detection device according to claim 1 , wherein the substrate is a flexible substrate.6. The force detection device according to claim 1 , wherein the fixing member is a resin.7. A force detection system claim 1 , comprising: a substrate;', 'a plurality of force sensors formed on the substrate; and', 'a fixing member that fixes the substrate therein in a folded state; and, 'a force detection device that comprises a storage that stores a calibration value calculated based on a force applied in advance to the force detection device; and', 'a controller that, based on the calibration value, calculates a force applied to the force detection device., 'a computation device that comprises8. The force detection system according to claim 7 , wherein the fixing member fixes the substrate in a randomly folded state.9. The force detection system according to claim 7 , wherein the fixing member fixes the substrate ...

VIBRATION AND DYNAMIC ACCELERATION SENSING USING CAPACITORS

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus comprising at least one sensing capacitor and a controller, wherein the controller is configured to receive a signal from the at least one sensing capacitor indicative of a change of charge of the sensing capacitor, and wherein the controller is configured to determine an amount of force applied to the sensing capacitor, an acceleration of the sensing capacitor, a torsion of the sensing capacitor, a vibration of the sensing capacitor or a pulling force applied to the sensing capacitor based on the change of charge of the at least one sensing capacitor. 1. Apparatus comprising:at least one sensing capacitor, anda controller, whereinthe controller is configured to receive a signal from the at least one sensing capacitor indicative of a change of charge of the sensing capacitor, and wherein the controller is configured to determine an amount of force applied to the sensing capacitor, an acceleration of the sensing capacitor, a torsion of the sensing capacitor, a vibration of the sensing capacitor or a pulling force applied to the sensing capacitor based on the change of charge of the at least one sensing capacitor.2. Apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprisinga charge amplifier connected between the at least one sensing capacitor and the controller.3. Apparatus according to claim 2 , characterized in thatthe charge amplifier comprises at least a first operational amplifier.4. Apparatus according to claim 3 , further comprisingat least one first capacitor is connected between the output of the operational amplifier and the inverting input of the first operational amplifier.5. Apparatus according to claim 2 , characterized in thatthe charge amplifier comprises at least a first and at least a second operational amplifier, wherein the inverting input of the first operational amplifier is connected to the first terminal of the at least one sensing capacitor and the inverting input of the second operational amplifier is ...

METHOD FOR ACTIVATING A VEHICLE FUNCTION FROM A PORTABLE ACCESS DEVICE AND ASSOCIATED ACTIVATION MODULE

An activation module, intended to be fitted to a motor vehicle for the purpose of activating a function of the vehicle from a portable access device carried by a user, the module including: a single coil; a first controller for a device for detecting pressure from the hand of the user; a second controller for a near-field communication device; a selector, connected to the single coil, having two positions: a first position in which the selector connects the single coil to the first controller in order to constitute the pressure detection device; a second position in which the selector connects the single coil to the second controller in order to constitute the near-field communication device; a target having a void, the target being located facing the single coil; an impedance-adjuster that is connected to the target; and a controller for the selector. 1. An activation module , intended to be fitted to a motor vehicle for the purpose of activating a function of the vehicle from a portable access device carried by a user , the activation module comprising:a single coil;a first controller for a device for detecting pressure from a hand of the user;a second controller for a near-field communication device having a communication frequency that is capable of communicating with the portable access device; a first position in which the selector connects said single coil to the first controller and disconnects the single coil from the second controller in order to constitute the pressure detection device;', 'a second position in which the selector connects said single coil to the second controller and disconnects the single coil from the first controller in order to constitute the near-field communication device;, 'a selector, connected to the single coil, having two positionsa target having a void, said target being located facing the single coil and capable of moving with respect to the single coil;an impedance adjuster that is connected to the target;a third controller ...

FORCE SENSOR AND MANUFACTURE METHOD THEREOF

A force sensor comprises a first substrate, a second substrate, a third substrate, and a package body. The first substrate includes a fixed electrode, at least one first conductive contact, and at least one second conductive contact. The second substrate is disposed on the first substrate and electrically connected to the first conductive contact of the first substrate. The second substrate includes a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) element corresponding to the fixed electrode. The third substrate is disposed on the second substrate and includes a pillar connected to the MEMS element. The package body covers the third substrate. The foregoing force sensor has better reliability. 1. A method for manufacturing a force sensor , comprising:providing a third substrate and defining at least one first connection member and a pillar in the third substrate;providing a second substrate including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first substrate;facing the second surface to the third substrate and joining the second substrate to the first connection member and the pillar of the third substrate;defining at least one second connection member in the first surface of the second substrate;defining a MEMS element in the second substrate, wherein the MEMS element is connected with the pillar;providing a first substrate including a fixed electrode, at least one first conductive contact and at least one second conductive contact;joining the first substrate to the second substrate, wherein the at least one first conductive contact is electrically connected with the at least one second connection member, and wherein the MEMS element is corresponding to the fixed electrode; andusing a package body to cover the first substrate, the second substrate and the third substrate.2. The method for manufacturing a force sensor according to further comprising thinning the third substrate.3. The method for manufacturing a force sensor according to further comprising thinning ...

VISCO-POROELASTIC ELASTOMER-BASED CAPACITOR TYPE TACTILE SENSOR

A visco-poroelastic elastomer-based capacitor type tactile sensor includes a first electrode, an active layer formed on a top surface of the first electrode and made of a visco-poroelastic elastomer, a second electrode formed on a top surface of the active layer, and a controller configured to provide an electric field generated orthogonal to an extension direction of the first electrode and the second electrode between the first electrode and the second electrode. In proportion to an external pressure applied to the tactile sensor, a concentration of effective ions present at the interfaces between the active layer and the first and second electrodes is increased. 1. A visco-poroelastic elastomer-based capacitor type tactile sensor , comprising:a first electrode;an active layer formed on a top surface of the first electrode and made of a visco-poroelastic elastomer;a second electrode formed on a top surface of the active layer; anda controller configured to provide an electric field generated orthogonal to an extension direction of the first electrode and the second electrode between the first electrode and the second electrode,wherein in proportion to an external pressure applied to the tactile sensor, a concentration of effective ions present at the interfaces between the active layer and the first and second electrodes is increased.2. The visco-poroelastic elastomer-based capacitor type tactile sensor of claim 1 ,wherein the active layer is formed including an elastomer with viscoelastic behavior and an ionic liquid with poroelastic behavior caused by fluidity and includes therein segments which partition the inside of the active layer and isolate ions at a predetermined concentration, and a concentration of effective ions on the surface of the active layer applied with pressure is adjusted by an external pressure.3. The visco-poroelastic elastomer-based capacitor type tactile sensor of claim 2 ,wherein when the partitioned areas are deformed by the external ...

Support Evaluation Device

A support evaluation device () comprising a series of pressure sensors in a stack (), output means () linked to the pressure sensors for indicating signals therefrom, and a power source, the series of pressure sensors including at least first and second pressure sensors within the stack (), operational across respective first and second pressure bands, each pressure sensor including first and second electrical conductors (), and an insulator () separating the electrical conductors (), the pressure sensors being adapted to signal whether there is contact between their electrical conductors (), and the output means () being adapted to provide at least one of an audio or visual output corresponding to signals from the pressure sensors, in use indicating the pressure band reached for a patient sat on the device (), each pressure band corresponding to a predetermined cushion strength for prescribing a cushion to that patient. 1. A support evaluation device comprising a series of pressure sensors in a stack , output means linked to the pressure sensors for indicating signals therefrom , and a power source ,the series of pressure sensors including at least first and second pressure sensors within the stack, operational across respective first and second pressure bands,each pressure sensor including first and second electrical conductors, and an insulator spacing the electrical conductors,the pressure sensors being adapted to signal whether there is contact between their electrical conductors, andthe output means being adapted to provide at least one of an audio or visual output corresponding to signals from the pressure sensors, in use indicating the pressure band reached for a patient sat on the device,each pressure band corresponding to a predetermined cushion strength for prescribing a cushion to that patient.2. A support evaluation device as claimed in claim 1 , in which a third pressure sensor is also provided in the series of pressure sensors in the stack.3. A ...

PHYSICAL QUANTITY SENSOR, COMPLEX SENSOR, INERTIAL MEASUREMENT UNIT, PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE, ELECTRONIC DEVICE, AND VEHICLE

A physical quantity sensor includes a sensor element, and a container (package) that stores the sensor element on a bottom plate (first base material). An outer edge of the container has a rectangular shape in a plan view. Lengths of each side of the rectangular shape are 2.0 mm or more and 7.0 mm or less, a thickness of the container is 0.50 mm or more and less than 1.85 mm, and when a thickness of the bottom plate is t, 0.4 mm≤t≤1.1 mm is satisfied. 1. A physical quantity sensor comprising:a sensor element; anda ceramic container in which the sensor element is stored,wherein an outer edge of the container has a rectangular shape in a plan view,wherein the sensor element is attached to a bottom plate of the container,wherein lengths of each side of the rectangular shape are 2.0 mm or more and 7.0 mm or less, wherein a thickness of the container is 0.50 mm or more and less than 1.85 mm, andwherein, when a thickness of the bottom plate is t, 0.4 mm≤t≤1.1 mm is satisfied.2. The physical quantity sensor according to claim 1 , 0.4 mm≤t≤0.9 mm is satisfied.3. The physical quantity sensor according to claim 2 , 0.4 mm≤t≤0.7 mm is satisfied.4. The physical quantity sensor according to claim 3 , 0.5 mm≤t≤0.7 mm is satisfied.5. The physical quantity sensor according to claim 1 ,wherein the lengths of each side are 3.0 mm or more and 5.0 mm or less.6. The physical quantity sensor according to claim 1 ,wherein the container includesan annular substrate stacked on the bottom plate so as to constitute a recessed portion in which the sensor element is stored.7. The physical quantity sensor according to claim 6 ,wherein a lid that seals an opening portion of the recessed portion is included.8. The physical quantity sensor according to claim 1 ,wherein the bottom plate is a multilayered substrate on which a plurality of substrates are stacked.9. The physical quantity sensor according to claim 8 ,wherein the number of stacked layers of the multilayered substrate is three.10. The ...

Physical Quantity Sensor, Inertial Measurement Unit, Electronic Apparatus, And Vehicle

A physical quantity sensor includes: a container that includes a storage space and a bottom plate that configures an inner bottom surface of the storage space; a sensor element that is attached to the inner bottom surface; a circuit element that is attached to a surface of the sensor element on the opposite side of the inner bottom surface, and is electrically connected with the sensor element; and a ground plane that is provided on the bottom plate. The ground GND plane is provided apart from the inner bottom surface. 1. A physical quantity sensor comprising: a storage space; and', 'a bottom plate that configures an inner bottom surface of the storage space;, 'a container includinga sensor element that is attached directly to the inner bottom surface;a circuit element that is attached directly to a surface of the sensor element on an opposite side of the inner bottom surface, the circuit element being electrically connected with the sensor element; anda ground plane extending along the bottom plate at a position spaced GND plane apart from the inner bottom surface.2. The physical quantity sensor according to claim 1 ,wherein the ground plane overlaps the sensor element in a plan view.3. The physical quantity sensor according to claim 1 ,wherein the bottom plate is a multilayered substrate including a plurality of stacked layers.4. The physical quantity sensor according to claim 3 ,wherein the plurality of stacked layers is three stacked layers.5. The physical quantity sensor according to claim 1 , the bottom plate,', 'an annular substrate stacked on the bottom plate; and', 'a conductive lid sealingly fixed over an opening of a recess configured by the bottom plate and the annular substrate., 'wherein the storage space further comprises a closed spaced formed by6. The physical quantity sensor according to claim 5 ,wherein the lid and the ground plane are electrically connected to each other by a conductive layer formed in a castellation provided on a side surface of ...