Mechanical force redistribution sensor array embedded in a single support layer
Inventors
Perlin, Kenneth • Hendee, Charles • Grau, Alex
Assignees
Interested in licensing this patent?
MTEC can help explore whether this patent might be available for licensing for your application.
Publication Number
US-12585354-B2
Publication Date
2026-03-24
Expiration Date
Abstract
An MFR sensor array having a first supporting layer. The array has a second supporting layer. The array has a force sensing component disposed between the first and second supporting layers. The array has protrusions combined with the force supporting component, where there are only two supporting layers. When a force is applied to the second supporting layer, the force causes the second supporting layer to contact protrusions so the force is transmitted through the protrusions to the force supporting component and through the force supporting component. An MFR sensor array. A system for sensing. A method for sensing.
Core Innovation
The invention provides a mechanical force redistribution (MFR) sensor array with only two supporting layers. A plurality of individual distinct separate and apart force sensing components are disposed between the first and second supporting layers, and a plurality of individual distinct separate and apart protrusions are combined with the force supporting components. When a force is applied to the second supporting layer, the force causes the second supporting layer to contact the protrusions so the force is transmitted through the protrusions to the force supporting components and through the force supporting component.
Each individual force sensing component and each individual protrusion define a single individual force sensing protrusion component. The arrangement implements force transmission without requiring more than two supporting layers, while keeping the sensing components and protrusions coupled such that each protrusion and sensing element functions as a single force sensing protrusion component unit. The structure supports embedding and integration concepts described for use with a surface layer.
The invention further includes a method for sensing in which force is imparted from above onto a top surface layer of an MFR sensor array having only two supporting layers. A computer causes prompting signals to be sent to the sensor array and reconstructs a continuous position of force on the surface layer from interpolation based on data signals received from a grid of wires in the array.
Claims Coverage
The partial content includes two independent claims. Each independent claim is directed to an MFR sensor array architecture and a corresponding sensing method, with inventive features centered on using only two supporting layers while defining a single force sensing protrusion component for each protrusion and force sensing component, and on continuous position reconstruction using a wire grid and computer interpolation.
Two supporting layers with combined protrusions and force sensing components defining single sensing units
A mechanical force redistribution (MFR) sensor array comprising a first supporting layer, a second supporting layer, a plurality of individual distinct separate and apart force sensing components disposed between the first and second supporting layers, and a plurality of individual distinct separate and apart protrusions combined with the force supporting components, where there are only two supporting layers and each individual force sensing component and each individual protrusion define a single individual force sensing protrusion component.
Computer prompting and continuous position reconstruction from wire grid interpolation
A method for sensing comprising imparting force from above onto a top surface layer of an MFR sensor array having only two supporting layers, causing prompting signals by a computer in communication with the sensor array to be sent to the sensor array, and reconstructing with the computer a continuous position of force on the surface layer from interpolation based on data signals received from a grid of wires in the array.
Across the independent claims, the core coverage is an MFR sensor array implemented with only two supporting layers where each protrusion and its corresponding force sensing component define a single individual force sensing protrusion component, together with sensing that uses computer prompting and reconstructs a continuous force position via interpolation from data signals from a grid of wires.
Stated Advantages
Embeds MFR into existing supporting layers such as flat-screen displays to reduce cost (<$1/sq ft at 2014 prices).
Allows rollable form factor without misalignment damage.
Removes abrasion risk caused by lateral sliding when rolling prior multi-layer sensors.
Documented Applications
Embedded in a display.
Pressure/touch sensing with continuous position reconstruction from data signals received from a grid of wires in the array.
Interested in licensing this patent?