WO1999039168A1 - Pressure sensitive surface sensor - Google Patents

Pressure sensitive surface sensor Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1999039168A1
WO1999039168A1 PCT/EP1999/000443 EP9900443W WO9939168A1 WO 1999039168 A1 WO1999039168 A1 WO 1999039168A1 EP 9900443 W EP9900443 W EP 9900443W WO 9939168 A1 WO9939168 A1 WO 9939168A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
sensor according
switching elements
pressure
tracks
sensitive
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP1999/000443
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Karl Billen
Laurent Federspiel
Edgard Theiss
Reinhard Knecht
Original Assignee
I.E.E. International Electronics & Engineering S.A.R.L.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by I.E.E. International Electronics & Engineering S.A.R.L. filed Critical I.E.E. International Electronics & Engineering S.A.R.L.
Priority to EP99907407A priority Critical patent/EP1053455A1/en
Publication of WO1999039168A1 publication Critical patent/WO1999039168A1/en

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R21/00—Arrangements or fittings on vehicles for protecting or preventing injuries to occupants or pedestrians in case of accidents or other traffic risks
    • B60R21/01—Electrical circuits for triggering passive safety arrangements, e.g. airbags, safety belt tighteners, in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents
    • B60R21/015—Electrical circuits for triggering passive safety arrangements, e.g. airbags, safety belt tighteners, in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting the presence or position of passengers, passenger seats or child seats, and the related safety parameters therefor, e.g. speed or timing of airbag inflation in relation to occupant position or seat belt use
    • B60R21/01512—Passenger detection systems
    • B60R21/01516—Passenger detection systems using force or pressure sensing means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/002—Seats provided with an occupancy detection means mounted therein or thereon
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01G—WEIGHING
    • G01G19/00—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups
    • G01G19/40—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups with provisions for indicating, recording, or computing price or other quantities dependent on the weight
    • G01G19/413—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups with provisions for indicating, recording, or computing price or other quantities dependent on the weight using electromechanical or electronic computing means
    • G01G19/414—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups with provisions for indicating, recording, or computing price or other quantities dependent on the weight using electromechanical or electronic computing means using electronic computing means only
    • G01G19/4142—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups with provisions for indicating, recording, or computing price or other quantities dependent on the weight using electromechanical or electronic computing means using electronic computing means only for controlling activation of safety devices, e.g. airbag systems
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H3/00—Mechanisms for operating contacts
    • H01H3/02—Operating parts, i.e. for operating driving mechanism by a mechanical force external to the switch
    • H01H3/14—Operating parts, i.e. for operating driving mechanism by a mechanical force external to the switch adapted for operation by a part of the human body other than the hand, e.g. by foot
    • H01H3/141—Cushion or mat switches

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a pressure-sensitive area sensor.
  • Such sensors are used today, for. B. used for occupancy detection, or pressure profile recording in car seats to control the deployment of an airbag. They are placed on a deformable seat upholstery, or integrated into it, and should recognize whether and if so how the seat is loaded. From the determined pressure profile, e.g. derive the height and posture of the person sitting.
  • Known sensors of this type comprise a film-like support structure over the surface of which several pressure-sensitive switching elements are distributed. The latter form the pressure-sensitive areas.
  • a support structure which consists only of strip-shaped connecting tracks which are held together by an outer frame.
  • the pressure-sensitive switching elements are integrated into the strip-shaped, approximately 2 cm wide connecting tracks.
  • the present invention is therefore based on the object of improving the response behavior of the switching elements in the pressure-sensitive area sensors described above.
  • Such a pressure-sensitive surface sensor comprises a two-dimensional support structure, which essentially consists of flexible connecting tracks, as well as several pressure-sensitive switching elements, which are distributed over the surface of the support structure. According to the invention, at least where the 2 '"
  • Support structure is subjected to major three-dimensional deformations, the pressure-sensitive switching elements carried by free-standing approaches on the connecting tracks.
  • the effect of deformations of the support structure on the switching elements in the surface sensors according to the invention is weakened.
  • the switching elements on the free-standing lugs of the connecting tracks are in fact mechanically decoupled from the supporting structure to a certain degree.
  • the two-dimensional support structure can adapt to a three-dimensional contact surface (such as seat upholstery) and to its deformations, without this adaptation causing greater parasitic loads on the switching elements.
  • the switching elements are no longer preloaded by mechanical stresses in the connecting tracks, which are caused by deformations of the support structure. This significantly improves their response behavior.
  • the width of the connecting tracks can be far smaller than the width (or the diameter) of the switching elements.
  • the width of the connecting tracks in the sensor according to the invention is determined solely by their connecting function and not by the dimension of the switching elements.
  • Narrower connecting tracks have a lower resistance to deformation, so that three-dimensional deformations of the supporting structure generate lower mechanical stresses, which can impair the response behavior of the switching elements.
  • a better three-dimensional deformability of the surface sensor naturally also improves the adaptation of the two-dimensional surface sensor to a three-dimensional contact surface.
  • the narrow connecting tracks include deformation loops or deformation arches. These deformation elements additionally improve the deformability of the connecting tracks and thus bring about an even better adaptation of the two-dimensional support structure of the sensor to a three-dimensional contact surface. Since the resistance to deformation of the connecting tracks is thus greatly reduced, the latter do not transmit any significant bending moments or torsional moments which cause parasitic loads in the switching elements.
  • the deformation loops are advantageously each arranged in a connecting path between two approaches, so that a compressive force acting locally on a switching element in a first approach does not cause any mechanical stress on the switching element in the adjacent approach.
  • An arrangement of the deformation element directly in front of an extension ensures that no significant bending and torsional moments are transferred to the extension.
  • the approaches advantageously comprise a head part which carries the switching element and a connecting web which connects the head part to the connecting track.
  • the extension of the connecting web transverse to the connecting direction should preferably be smaller than the corresponding extension of the head part.
  • This tapering of the approach in the area of the connecting web ensures that the connecting web is more flexible than the head part, as a result of which remanent deformations are essentially absorbed by the connecting web and have no significant effects on the switching element.
  • the connecting web of the approach can be transverse to the connecting track, whereby the mechanical decoupling between the head part and connecting track is further improved.
  • the support structure advantageously comprises lattice-shaped ones
  • the grid-shaped support structure also has essentially the same deformability in two vertical directions. In this way, a more uniform adaptation of the surface sensor to a three-dimensional contact surface is achieved.
  • connection lines which are integrated in the connecting tracks.
  • the support structure consists of two foils glued together, connecting lines and switching elements being arranged between the two foils.
  • the area sensor preferably comprises pressure-sensitive resistance sensors which, among other things, under the name "Force Sensing Resistor (FSR)".
  • FSR Force Sensing Resistor
  • Such resistance sensors include, for example, a surface electrode, a surface coated with semiconductor material, which lies opposite the surface electrode, and a spacer The spacer has the effect that the surface electrode and the semiconductor material are not contacted when the switching element is not actuated.
  • the surface electrode of the FSR sensor can be on a first film and the semiconductor material surface on a second film can be applied, the first and second films being separated by a spacer film.
  • An area sensor according to the invention is advantageously used, for example, in a padded seat for occupancy detection or pressure profile recording, the area sensor resting on the padding or being integrated therein.
  • the great flexibility of the support structure and the small width of the connecting tracks ensure improved seating comfort compared to known pressure-sensitive surface sensors. Due to the great flexibility of the support structure and the fact that the individual switching elements are largely mechanically decoupled from one another 5 - -
  • the area sensor is advantageously suitable for recording a pressure profile on three-dimensional areas.
  • Figure 1 a section of an area sensor with several pressure-sensitive areas
  • Figure 1 shows a section of a pressure-sensitive area sensor, as z. B. can be used for occupancy detection, or pressure profile recording in car seats, u.a. to control the deployment of an airbag.
  • the pressure-sensitive area sensor is placed on the seat upholstery or integrated into it. It makes it possible to see whether and where the seat is loaded.
  • a pressure profile can be created for the seat. From this pressure profile, e.g. derive the height and posture of the person sitting, which e.g. are important parameters for intelligent control of the deployment of an airbag.
  • the surface sensor shown comprises a film-like support structure which essentially consists of a plurality of relatively narrow connecting tracks 12 arranged in a lattice shape.
  • These connecting tracks 12 comprise deformation loops 14, or deformation arches 16, which are arranged in such a way that the supporting structure can be deformed three-dimensionally.
  • the support structure can adapt to the profile of a three-dimensional surface.
  • Pressure-sensitive switching elements 18 are outside the connecting tracks
  • Such an approach 20 advantageously includes a head part 22, which
  • Switching element 18 carries, as well as a connecting web 24, which connects the head part 22 with a connecting track 12. Note that the expansion 6 ' "
  • the connecting web 24 transverse to the connecting direction is smaller than the corresponding extension "B" of the head part 22.
  • the connecting web 24 is more flexible in the connecting direction than the head part 22.
  • the width of the connecting tracks "c" is also substantially smaller than the extension "B” of the head part 22.
  • the deformation elements 14, 16 between adjacent lugs 20, the latter so to speak mechanically decouple from one another.
  • the switching elements 18 can lie largely on a three-dimensional contact surface without large bending moments or torsional moments being generated in the supporting structure, which lead to a preloading of the switching elements 18.
  • the switching elements 18 are preferably sensors which, among other things. under the name "Force Sensing Resistors (FSR)" are known. These “FSR” include in a known manner e.g. a surface electrode (e.g. a graphite or silver electrode), a counter surface coated with semiconductor material, which is opposite the surface electrode, and a spacer. The spacer has the effect that the surface electrode and the semiconductor material are not contacted when the switching element is not actuated. However, if a pressure force acts on such an FSR, its surface electrode is brought into contact with the semiconductor material surface. The contact resistance decreases with increasing pressure.
  • FSR Force Sensing Resistors
  • connection lines of the switching elements 18 are designated in FIG. 1 by the reference number 26. These connecting lines 26 are integrated in the connecting tracks and connecting webs, the lattice structure of the connecting tracks 12 allowing the switching elements 18 to be connected in a matrix. It should be noted that, for the sake of simplicity, the connecting lines 26 in FIG. 1 are only shown schematically as a single dashed line. In practice, of course, several parallel connecting lines 26 run through a connecting path, via which the switching elements 18 can each be individually connected to an electronic evaluation system. 7 '"
  • the sensor shown in FIG. 1 with FSR sensors comprises a support structure which consists of three foils laminated on top of one another with good flexibility and insulation properties.
  • the middle film forms the spacer for the FSR sensors.
  • it has a hole in each head part 22 which corresponds to the active zone of the respective FSR sensor.
  • the electrodes with their connecting lines, or the semiconductor surfaces with their connecting lines, are each applied to the side of the two outer films facing the middle film. It remains to be noted that the lattice structure described above is punched out of the fully bonded "sandwich film".
  • the surface sensor described above is placed on a seat upholstery, it can be adapted excellently to the three-dimensionally deformable support surface by the narrow connecting tracks 12 and the deformation elements 14, 16. This results in deformations of the connecting tracks 12 almost exclusively in the area of their deformation elements. However, due to the low resistance to deformation of the connecting tracks, these deformations do not produce any significant bending moments or torsional moments in the supporting structure, which would lead to parasitic loads in the switching elements 18 in their free-standing lugs 20. Of course, the excellent deformability of the support structure also improves seating comfort.
  • the pressure-sensitive area sensor described above can of course also be used in other areas for recording pressure profiles.
  • Another application is e.g. the pressure profile recording of feet in shoes.

Abstract

The invention relates to a pressure sensitive surface sensor comprising a two-dimensional support structure essentially comprised of flexible connection paths (12) and several pressure sensitive switching elements (18). The pressure sensitive switching elements (18) are supported at least at the location where the support structure is subjected to large three-dimensional deformations. To this end, said switching elements are supported by protruding elements (20) of the connection paths (12), said elements being configured such that they are unsupported.

Description

Drucksensibler Flächensensor Pressure sensitive area sensor
Die Erfindung betrifft einen drucksensiblen Flächensensor.The invention relates to a pressure-sensitive area sensor.
Solche Sensoren werden heute z. B. zur Belegungserkennung, bzw. Druckprofilaufahme in Autositzen eingesetzt um die Auslösung eines Airbags zu steuern. Sie sind hierbei auf eine verformbare Sitzpolsterung aufgelegt, bzw. in diese integriert, und sollen erkennen ob und ggf. wie der Sitz belastet ist. Aus dem ermittelten Druckprofil läßt sich dann z.B. die Körpergröße und Sitzhaltung des Sitzenden ableiten.Such sensors are used today, for. B. used for occupancy detection, or pressure profile recording in car seats to control the deployment of an airbag. They are placed on a deformable seat upholstery, or integrated into it, and should recognize whether and if so how the seat is loaded. From the determined pressure profile, e.g. derive the height and posture of the person sitting.
Bekannte Sensoren dieser Gattung umfassen eine folienartige Tragstruktur über deren Fläche mehrere drucksensible Schaltelemente verteilt sind. Letztere bilden die drucksensiblen Bereiche aus. Um eine Anpassung der zweidimensionalen Tragstruktur an eine dreidimensionale Auflagefläche zu ermöglichen, ist es bekannt, eine Tragstruktur einzusetzen, die lediglich aus streifenförmigen Verbindungsbahnen besteht, welche durch einen äußeren Rahmen zusammengehalten werden. Die drucksensiblen Schaltelemente sind hierbei in die streifenförmigen ungefähr 2 cm breiten Verbindungsbahnen integriert.Known sensors of this type comprise a film-like support structure over the surface of which several pressure-sensitive switching elements are distributed. The latter form the pressure-sensitive areas. In order to make it possible to adapt the two-dimensional support structure to a three-dimensional support surface, it is known to use a support structure which consists only of strip-shaped connecting tracks which are held together by an outer frame. The pressure-sensitive switching elements are integrated into the strip-shaped, approximately 2 cm wide connecting tracks.
Man hat festgestellt, daß in diesen bekannten Flächensensoren das Ansprechverhalten der Schaltelemente durch Deformationen der Tragstruktur beeinflußt wird.It has been found that the response behavior of the switching elements is influenced by deformations of the support structure in these known surface sensors.
Der vorliegenden Erfindung liegt deshalb die Aufgabe zugrunde, das Ansprechverhalten der Schaltelemente in den zuvor beschriebenen drucksensiblen Flächensensoren zu verbessern.The present invention is therefore based on the object of improving the response behavior of the switching elements in the pressure-sensitive area sensors described above.
Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß durch einen Fiächensensor nach Anspruch 1 gelöst.This object is achieved by a surface sensor according to claim 1.
Ein solcher drucksensibler Flächensensor umfaßt eine zweidimensionale Tragstruktur, die im wesentlichen aus flexiblen Verbindungsbahnen besteht, sowie mehrere drucksensible Schaltelemente, die über die Fläche der Tragstruktur verteilt sind. Erfindungsgemäß werden, zumindest dort wo die 2 ' " Such a pressure-sensitive surface sensor comprises a two-dimensional support structure, which essentially consists of flexible connecting tracks, as well as several pressure-sensitive switching elements, which are distributed over the surface of the support structure. According to the invention, at least where the 2 '"
Tragstruktur größeren dreidimensionalen Deformationen unterworfen ist, die drucksensiblen Schaltelemente durch freistehend ausgebildete Ansätze an den Verbindungsbahnen getragen.Support structure is subjected to major three-dimensional deformations, the pressure-sensitive switching elements carried by free-standing approaches on the connecting tracks.
Im Vergleich zu bekannten drucksensiblen Flächensensoren, bei denen die Schaltelemente in die Verbindungsbahnen integriert sind, wird die Auswirkung von Deformationen der Tragstruktur auf die Schaltelemente in den erfindungsgemäßen Flächensensoren abgeschwächt. Die Schaltelemente auf den freistehend ausgebildeten Ansätzen der Verbindungsbahnen sind in der Tat bis zu einem gewissen Grad von der Tragstruktur mechanisch abgekoppelt. Dies bedeutet, daß die zweidimensionale Tragstruktur sich an eine dreidimensionale Auflagefläche (wie z.B. einer Sitzpolsterung), sowie an deren Deformationen anpassen kann, ohne daß durch diese Anpassung größere parasitäre Belastungen der Schaltelemente hervorgerufen werden. In anderen Worten, die Schaltelemente werden durch mechanische Spannungen in den Verbindungsbahnen, welche durch Deformationen der Tragstruktur hervorgerufen werden, nicht mehr vorbelastet. Hierdurch wird ihr Ansprechverhalten wesentlich verbessert. Weiterhin ist anzumerken, daß in dem erfindungsgemäßen Flächensensor, im Vergleich zu bekannten Flächensensoren bei denen die Schaltelemente in die Verbindungsbahnen integriert sind, die Breite der Verbindungsbahnen weitaus kleiner als die Breite (bzw. der Durchmesser) der Schaltelemente sein kann. In anderen Worten, die Breite der Verbindungsbahnen wird im erfindungsgemäßen Sensor einzig und allein durch ihre Verbindungsfunktion und nicht durch die Dimension der Schaltelemente festgelegt. Schmalere Verbindungsbahnen haben einen geringeren Verformungswiderstand, so daß dreidimensionale Deformationen der Tragstruktur geringere mechanische Spannungen erzeugen, die das Ansprechverhalten der Schaltelemente beeinträchtigen können. Durch eine bessere dreidimensionale Verformbarkeit des Flächensensors wird natürlich auch die Anpassung des zweidimensionalen Flächensensors an eine dreidimensionale Auflagefläche verbessert. Bei der Anwendung des Flächensensors in einem gepolsterten Sitz, z.B. zur Sitzbelegungserkennung oder Druckprofilaufnahme, bewirkt der erfidungsgemäße Flächensensor u.a. 3 - " In comparison to known pressure-sensitive surface sensors, in which the switching elements are integrated in the connecting tracks, the effect of deformations of the support structure on the switching elements in the surface sensors according to the invention is weakened. The switching elements on the free-standing lugs of the connecting tracks are in fact mechanically decoupled from the supporting structure to a certain degree. This means that the two-dimensional support structure can adapt to a three-dimensional contact surface (such as seat upholstery) and to its deformations, without this adaptation causing greater parasitic loads on the switching elements. In other words, the switching elements are no longer preloaded by mechanical stresses in the connecting tracks, which are caused by deformations of the support structure. This significantly improves their response behavior. It should also be noted that in the area sensor according to the invention, compared to known area sensors in which the switching elements are integrated in the connecting tracks, the width of the connecting tracks can be far smaller than the width (or the diameter) of the switching elements. In other words, the width of the connecting tracks in the sensor according to the invention is determined solely by their connecting function and not by the dimension of the switching elements. Narrower connecting tracks have a lower resistance to deformation, so that three-dimensional deformations of the supporting structure generate lower mechanical stresses, which can impair the response behavior of the switching elements. A better three-dimensional deformability of the surface sensor naturally also improves the adaptation of the two-dimensional surface sensor to a three-dimensional contact surface. When the surface sensor is used in a padded seat, for example for detecting seat occupancy or recording a pressure profile, the surface sensor according to the invention effects, among other things 3 - "
einen höheren Sitzkomfort durch eine verbesserte Verformbarkeit und eine geringere Bedeckung der Sitzfläche.Greater seating comfort thanks to improved deformability and less covering of the seat.
In einer vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung des Flächensensors, umfassen die schmalen Verbindungsbahnen Deformationsschleifen, bzw. Deformationsbögen. Diese Deformationselemente verbessern zusätzlich Verformbarkeit der Verbindungsbahnen und bewirken somit eine noch bessere Anpassung der zweidimensionalen Tragstruktur des Sensors an eine dreidimensionale Auflagefläche. Da der Verformungswiderstand der Verbindungsbahnen somit stark reduziert ist, übertragen letztere keine wesentlichen Biegemomente, bzw. Torsionsmomente, welche parasitäre Belastungen in den Schaltelementen hervorrufen.In an advantageous embodiment of the area sensor, the narrow connecting tracks include deformation loops or deformation arches. These deformation elements additionally improve the deformability of the connecting tracks and thus bring about an even better adaptation of the two-dimensional support structure of the sensor to a three-dimensional contact surface. Since the resistance to deformation of the connecting tracks is thus greatly reduced, the latter do not transmit any significant bending moments or torsional moments which cause parasitic loads in the switching elements.
Die Deformationsschleifen sind vorteilhaft jeweils in einer Verbindungsbahn zwischen zwei Ansätzen angeordnet, so daß eine lokal auf ein Schaltelement in einem ersten Ansatz wirkende Druckkraft, keine mechanische Belastung des Schaltelementes im benachbarten Ansatz verursacht. Durch eine Anordnung des Deformationselementes unmittelbar vor einem Ansatz wird erreicht, daß keine wesentlichen Biege- und Torsionsmomente auf den Ansatz übertragen werden.The deformation loops are advantageously each arranged in a connecting path between two approaches, so that a compressive force acting locally on a switching element in a first approach does not cause any mechanical stress on the switching element in the adjacent approach. An arrangement of the deformation element directly in front of an extension ensures that no significant bending and torsional moments are transferred to the extension.
Die Ansätze umfassen vorteilhaft einen Kopfteil, welches das Schaltelement trägt, und einen Verbindungssteg, der das Kopfteil mit der Verbindungsbahn verbindet. Die Ausdehnung des Verbindungsstegs quer zur Verbindungsrichtung soll vorzugsweise kleiner sein als die entsprechende Ausdehnung des Kopfteiles. Durch diese Verjüngung des Ansatzes im Bereich des Verbindunsstegs ist gewährleistet, daß der Verbindungssteg flexibler als der Kopfteil ist, wodurch remanente Deformationen im wesentlichen vom Verbindungssteg absorbiert werden und keine wesentlichen Auswirkungen auf das Schaltelement haben. Zusätzlich kann der Verbindungssteg des Ansatzes quer zur Verbindungsbahn stehen, wodurch die mechanische Entkopplung zwischen Kopfteil und Verbindungsbahn weiter verbessert wird. Die Tragstruktur umfaßt vorteilhaft gitterförmig angeordneteThe approaches advantageously comprise a head part which carries the switching element and a connecting web which connects the head part to the connecting track. The extension of the connecting web transverse to the connecting direction should preferably be smaller than the corresponding extension of the head part. This tapering of the approach in the area of the connecting web ensures that the connecting web is more flexible than the head part, as a result of which remanent deformations are essentially absorbed by the connecting web and have no significant effects on the switching element. In addition, the connecting web of the approach can be transverse to the connecting track, whereby the mechanical decoupling between the head part and connecting track is further improved. The support structure advantageously comprises lattice-shaped ones
Verbindungsbahnen, welche über Deformationsschleifen oder -bögen 4 - " Connection tracks, which over deformation loops or arches 4 - "
miteinander verbunden sind. Diese gitterförmige Anordnung der Verbindungsbahnen erlaubt eine gleichmäßige Verteilung und ein vorteilhaftes Beschälten der Schaltelemente. Die gitterförmige Tragstruktur weist zudem in zwei senkrechten Richtungen im wesentlichen die gleiche Verformbarkeit auf. Hierdurch wird eine gleichmäßigere Anpassung des Flächensensors an eine dreidimensionale Auflagefläche erreicht.are interconnected. This lattice-shaped arrangement of the connecting tracks allows a uniform distribution and an advantageous wiring of the switching elements. The grid-shaped support structure also has essentially the same deformability in two vertical directions. In this way, a more uniform adaptation of the surface sensor to a three-dimensional contact surface is achieved.
Die drucksensiblen Schaltelemente weisen vorteilhaft elektrischeThe pressure-sensitive switching elements advantageously have electrical ones
Anschlußleitungen auf, welche in die Verbindungsbahnen integriert sind. In einer bevorzugten Ausgestaltung besteht die Tragstruktur aus zwei zusammmengeklebten Folien, wobei Anschlußleitungen und Schaltelemente zwischen den beiden Folien angeordnet sind.Connection lines, which are integrated in the connecting tracks. In a preferred embodiment, the support structure consists of two foils glued together, connecting lines and switching elements being arranged between the two foils.
Der Flächensensor umfaßt bevorzugt drucksensible Widerstandsensoren, die u.a. unter dem Namen "Force Sensing Resistor (FSR)„ bekannt sind. Der Widerstand eines solchen FSR-Sensors ist abhängig von der darauf wirkenden Druckkraft. Derartige Widerstandsensoren umfassen z.B. eine Flächenelektrode, eine mit Halbleitermaterial beschichte Fläche, die der Flächenelektrode gegenüberliegt, und einem Abstandhalter. Der Abstandhalter bewirkt, daß die Flächenelektrode und das Halbleitermaterial bei nicht betätigtem Schaltelement nicht kontaktiert sind. Bei Druckbelastung des FSR- Sensors nimmt der Kontaktwiderstand mit zunehmender Druckkraft ab. Die Flächenelektrode des FSR-Sensors kann hierbei auf einer ersten Folie und die Halbleitermaterialfläche auf einer zweiten Folie aufgebracht sein, wobei die erste und zweite Folie durch eine Abstandhalterfolie getrennt sind.The area sensor preferably comprises pressure-sensitive resistance sensors which, among other things, under the name "Force Sensing Resistor (FSR)". The resistance of such an FSR sensor depends on the compressive force acting thereon. Such resistance sensors include, for example, a surface electrode, a surface coated with semiconductor material, which lies opposite the surface electrode, and a spacer The spacer has the effect that the surface electrode and the semiconductor material are not contacted when the switching element is not actuated. When the FSR sensor is subjected to pressure, the contact resistance decreases with increasing pressure force. The surface electrode of the FSR sensor can be on a first film and the semiconductor material surface on a second film can be applied, the first and second films being separated by a spacer film.
Anwendung findet ein erfindungsgemäßer Flächensensor z.B. vorteilhaft in einem gepolsterten Sitz zur Belegungserkennung oder Druckprofilaufnahme, wobei der Flächensensor auf der Polsterung aufliegt oder in diese integriert ist. Die große Flexibilität der Tragstruktur und die geringe Breite der Verbindungsbahnen gewährleisten hierbei einen verbesserten Sitzkomfort im Vergleich zu bekannten drucksensiblen Flächensensoren. Durch die große Flexibilität der Tragstruktur und die Tatsache, daß die einzelnen Schaltelemente mechanisch weitgehend voneinander entkoppelt 5 - -An area sensor according to the invention is advantageously used, for example, in a padded seat for occupancy detection or pressure profile recording, the area sensor resting on the padding or being integrated therein. The great flexibility of the support structure and the small width of the connecting tracks ensure improved seating comfort compared to known pressure-sensitive surface sensors. Due to the great flexibility of the support structure and the fact that the individual switching elements are largely mechanically decoupled from one another 5 - -
sind, eignet sich der Flächensensor vorteilhaft für eine Druckprofilaufnahme auf dreidimensionalen Flächen.are, the area sensor is advantageously suitable for recording a pressure profile on three-dimensional areas.
Weitere Vorteile und Merkmale der Erfindung lassen sich aus der nachfolgenden Beschreibung eines Ausführungsbeispieles ableiten, die anhand der beigefügten Zeichnung vorgenommen wird.Further advantages and features of the invention can be derived from the following description of an exemplary embodiment, which is carried out with reference to the accompanying drawing.
Es zeigt:It shows:
Figur 1 : einen Ausschnitt aus einem Flächensensor mit mehreren drucksensiblen BereichenFigure 1: a section of an area sensor with several pressure-sensitive areas
Figur 1 zeigt einen Ausschnitt aus einem drucksensiblen Flächensensor, wie er z. B. zur Belegungserkennung, bzw. Druckprofilaufahme in Autositzen eingesetzt werden kann, u.a. um die Auslösung eines Airbags zu steuern. Der drucksensible Flächensensor wird hierbei auf die Sitzpolsterung aufgelegt oder in sie integriert. Er ermöglicht es zu erkennen ob und an welchen Stellen der Sitz belastet ist. Durch Messen der Druckbelastung an den drucksensiblen Stellen des Flächensensors, kann ein Druckprofil für die Sitzfläche erstellt werden. Aus diesem Druckprofil läßt sich dann z.B. die Körpergröße und Sitzhaltung des Sitzenden ableiten, die z.B. wichtige Parameter für eine intelligente Steuerung der Auslösung eines Airbags sind.Figure 1 shows a section of a pressure-sensitive area sensor, as z. B. can be used for occupancy detection, or pressure profile recording in car seats, u.a. to control the deployment of an airbag. The pressure-sensitive area sensor is placed on the seat upholstery or integrated into it. It makes it possible to see whether and where the seat is loaded. By measuring the pressure load at the pressure-sensitive points on the surface sensor, a pressure profile can be created for the seat. From this pressure profile, e.g. derive the height and posture of the person sitting, which e.g. are important parameters for intelligent control of the deployment of an airbag.
Der gezeigte Flächensensor umfaßt eine folienartige Tragstruktur, die sich im wesentlichen aus einer Vielzahl gitterförmig angeordneten, relativ schmalen Verbindungsbahnen 12 zusammensetzt. Diese Vebindungsbahnen 12 umfassen Deformationschleifen 14, bzw. Deformationsbogen 16, die derart angeordnet sind, daß die Tragstruktur sich ausgezeichnet dreidimensional verformen kann. In anderen Worten, die Tragstruktur kann sich an das Profil einer dreidimensionalen Fläche anpassen.The surface sensor shown comprises a film-like support structure which essentially consists of a plurality of relatively narrow connecting tracks 12 arranged in a lattice shape. These connecting tracks 12 comprise deformation loops 14, or deformation arches 16, which are arranged in such a way that the supporting structure can be deformed three-dimensionally. In other words, the support structure can adapt to the profile of a three-dimensional surface.
Drucksensible Schaltelemente 18 sind außerhalb der VerbindungsbahnenPressure-sensitive switching elements 18 are outside the connecting tracks
12, in freistehend ausgebildeten Ansätzen 20 an den Verbindungsbahnen 12 angeordnet. Ein solcher Ansatz 20 umfaßt vorteilhaft ein Kopfteil 22, der das12, arranged in free-standing projections 20 on the connecting tracks 12. Such an approach 20 advantageously includes a head part 22, which
Schaltelement 18 trägt, sowie einen Verbindungssteg 24, der das Kopfteil 22 mit einer Verbindungsbahn 12 verbindet. Man beachte, daß die Ausdehnung 6 ' " Switching element 18 carries, as well as a connecting web 24, which connects the head part 22 with a connecting track 12. Note that the expansion 6 '"
"b" des Verbindungsstegs 24 quer zur Verbindungsrichtung kleiner als die entsprechende Ausdehnung "B" des Kopfteils 22 ist. Hierdurch ist der Verbindungssteg 24 in Verbindungsrichtung flexibler als der Kopfteil 22. Man beachte ebenfalls, daß die Breite der Verbindungsbahnen "c" ebenfalls wesentlich kleiner als die Ausdehnung "B" des Kopfteils 22 ist. Man beachte weiterhin, daß die Deformationselemente 14, 16 zwischen benachbarten Ansätzen 20, letztere sozusagen mechanisch voneinander entkoppeln. In anderen Worten, die Schaltelemente 18 können sich weitgehend an eine dreidimensionale Auflagefläche anlegen, ohne daß hierdurch in der Tragstruktur große Biegemomente, bzw. Torsionsmomente, erzeugt würden, die zu einer Vorbelastung der Schaltelemente 18 führen."b" of the connecting web 24 transverse to the connecting direction is smaller than the corresponding extension "B" of the head part 22. As a result, the connecting web 24 is more flexible in the connecting direction than the head part 22. It should also be noted that the width of the connecting tracks "c" is also substantially smaller than the extension "B" of the head part 22. It should also be noted that the deformation elements 14, 16 between adjacent lugs 20, the latter so to speak mechanically decouple from one another. In other words, the switching elements 18 can lie largely on a three-dimensional contact surface without large bending moments or torsional moments being generated in the supporting structure, which lead to a preloading of the switching elements 18.
Bei den Schaltelementen 18 handelt es sich vorzugsweise um Sensoren die u.a. unter dem Namen "Force Sensing Resistors (FSR)" bekannt sind. Diese "FSR" umfassen in bekannter Weise z.B. eine Flächenelektrode (z.B. eine Graphit- oder Silberelektrode), eine mit Halbleitermaterial beschichtete Gegenfläche, die der Flächenelektrode gegenüberliegt, und einen Abstandhalter. Der Abstandhalter bewirkt, daß die Flächenelektrode und das Halbleitermaterial bei nicht betätigtem Schaltelement nicht kontaktiert sind. Wirkt jedoch eine Druckkraft auf einen solchen FSR, so wird dessen Flächenelektrode mit der Halbleitermaterialfläche in Kontakt gebracht. Der Kontaktwiderstand nimmt hierbei mit steigendem Druck ab.The switching elements 18 are preferably sensors which, among other things. under the name "Force Sensing Resistors (FSR)" are known. These "FSR" include in a known manner e.g. a surface electrode (e.g. a graphite or silver electrode), a counter surface coated with semiconductor material, which is opposite the surface electrode, and a spacer. The spacer has the effect that the surface electrode and the semiconductor material are not contacted when the switching element is not actuated. However, if a pressure force acts on such an FSR, its surface electrode is brought into contact with the semiconductor material surface. The contact resistance decreases with increasing pressure.
Mit dem Bezugszeichen 26 sind in der Figur 1 elektrische Anschlußleitungen der Schaltelemente 18 bezeichnet. Diese Anschlußleitungen 26 sind in die Verbindungsbahnen und Verbindungsstege integriert, wobei die Gitterstruktur der Verbindungsbahnen 12, ein matrixförmiges Beschälten der Schaltelemente 18 ermöglicht. Es bleibt anzumerken, daß in der Figur 1 die Anschlußleitungen 26, der Einfachheit halber, lediglich schematisch als eine einzige gestrichelte Linie eingezeichnet sind. In der Praxis laufen durch eine Verbindungsbahn natürlich mehrere parallele Anschlußleitungen 26, über welche die Schaltelemente 18 jeweils einzeln an eine Auswertelektronik angeschlossen sein können. 7 ' " Electrical connection lines of the switching elements 18 are designated in FIG. 1 by the reference number 26. These connecting lines 26 are integrated in the connecting tracks and connecting webs, the lattice structure of the connecting tracks 12 allowing the switching elements 18 to be connected in a matrix. It should be noted that, for the sake of simplicity, the connecting lines 26 in FIG. 1 are only shown schematically as a single dashed line. In practice, of course, several parallel connecting lines 26 run through a connecting path, via which the switching elements 18 can each be individually connected to an electronic evaluation system. 7 '"
Der in der Figur 1 gezeigte Sensor mit FSR-Sensoren umfaßt eine Tragstruktur welche aus drei aufeinander laminierten Folien mit guten Flexibilitäts- und Isolationseigenschaften besteht. Die mittlere Folie bildet den Abstandhalter für die FSR-Sensoren aus. Sie weist hierzu in jedem Kopfteil 22 jeweils ein Loch auf, das mit der aktiven Zone des jeweiligen FSR-Sensors übereinstimmt. Die Elektroden mit ihren Anschlußleitungen, bzw. die Halbleiterflächen mit ihren Anschlußleitungen, sind jeweils auf die der mittleren Folie zugekehrten Seite der beiden äußeren Folien aufgebracht. Es bleibt anzumerken, daß die zuvor beschriebene Gitterstruktur aus der fertig verklebten "Sandwichfolie" herausgestanzt wird.The sensor shown in FIG. 1 with FSR sensors comprises a support structure which consists of three foils laminated on top of one another with good flexibility and insulation properties. The middle film forms the spacer for the FSR sensors. For this purpose, it has a hole in each head part 22 which corresponds to the active zone of the respective FSR sensor. The electrodes with their connecting lines, or the semiconductor surfaces with their connecting lines, are each applied to the side of the two outer films facing the middle film. It remains to be noted that the lattice structure described above is punched out of the fully bonded "sandwich film".
Wird der zuvor beschriebene Flächensensor auf eine Sitzpolsterung aufgelegt, so kann er sich durch die schmalen Verbindungsbahnen 12 und die Deformationselemente 14, 16 ausgezeichnet an die dreidimensional verformbare Auflagefläche anpassen. Hierbei kommt es zu Deformationen der Verbindungsbahnen 12 fast ausschließlich im Bereich ihrer Deformationselemente. Diese Deformationen erzeugen, durch den geringen Verformungswiderstand der Verbindungsbahnen bedingt, jedoch keine wesentlichen Biegemomente, bzw. Torsionsmomente in der Tragstruktur, die zu parasitären Belastungen in den Schaltelementen 18 in ihren freistehenden Ansätzen 20 führen würden. Selbstverständlich wird durch die ausgezeichnete Verformbarkeit der Tragstruktur der Sitzkomfort ebenfalls verbessert.If the surface sensor described above is placed on a seat upholstery, it can be adapted excellently to the three-dimensionally deformable support surface by the narrow connecting tracks 12 and the deformation elements 14, 16. This results in deformations of the connecting tracks 12 almost exclusively in the area of their deformation elements. However, due to the low resistance to deformation of the connecting tracks, these deformations do not produce any significant bending moments or torsional moments in the supporting structure, which would lead to parasitic loads in the switching elements 18 in their free-standing lugs 20. Of course, the excellent deformability of the support structure also improves seating comfort.
Der zuvor beschrieben drucksensible Flächensensor kann selbstverständlich auch in anderen Bereichen zur Druckprofilaufnahme eingesetzt werden. Eine weitere Anwedung ist z.B. die Druckprofilaufnahme von Füßen in Schuhen. The pressure-sensitive area sensor described above can of course also be used in other areas for recording pressure profiles. Another application is e.g. the pressure profile recording of feet in shoes.

Claims

8 - " 8 - "
Patentansprücheclaims
1. Drucksensibler Flächensensor umfassend: eine zweidimensionale Tragstruktur bestehend im wesentlichen aus flexiblen Verbindungsbahnen (12) ; und mehrere drucksensible Schaltelemente (18) , die über die Fläche der Tragstruktur (12) verteilt sind, wobei die Schaltelemente (18) mittels der Verbindungsbahnen (12) miteinander verbunden sind; dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die drucksensiblen Schaltelemente (18), zumindest dort wo die Tragstruktur größeren dreidimensionalen Deformationen unterworfen ist, von freistehend ausgebildeten Ansätzen (20) der Verbindungsbahnen (12) getragen werden.1. Pressure-sensitive area sensor comprising: a two-dimensional support structure consisting essentially of flexible connecting tracks (12); and a plurality of pressure-sensitive switching elements (18) distributed over the surface of the support structure (12), the switching elements (18) being connected to one another by means of the connecting tracks (12); characterized in that the pressure-sensitive switching elements (18), at least where the supporting structure is subjected to larger three-dimensional deformations, are carried by free-standing projections (20) of the connecting tracks (12).
2. Sensor nach Anspruch 1 , dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Verbindungsbahnen (12) Deformationsschleifen (14), bzw. Deformationsbogen (16) umfassen2. Sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that the connecting tracks (12) comprise deformation loops (14) or deformation arch (16)
3. Sensor nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Deformationsschleifen (14) jeweils in einer Verbindungsbahn (12) zwischen zwei Ansätzen (20) angeordnet sind.3. Sensor according to claim 2, characterized in that the deformation loops (14) are each arranged in a connecting path (12) between two approaches (20).
4. Sensor nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Ansätze (20) ein Kopfteil (22), welcher das Schaltelement (18) trägt, und einen Verbindungssteg (24), der das Kopfteil (22) mit der Verbindungsbahn (12) verbindet, umfassen; wobei die Ausdehnung ("b") des Verbindungsstegs (24) quer zur Verbindungsrichtung kleiner als die entsprechende Ausdehnung des Kopfteils ("B") ist. 5. Sensor nach Anspruch 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß der4. Sensor according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the approaches (20) a head part (22) which carries the switching element (18), and a connecting web (24) which the head part (22) with the connecting track (12) connects, include; wherein the extension ("b") of the connecting web (24) transverse to the connection direction is smaller than the corresponding extension of the head part ("B"). 5. Sensor according to claim 4, characterized in that the
Verbindungssteg (24) quer zur Verbindungsbahn (12) steht mit der er verbunden ist.The connecting web (24) is transverse to the connecting track (12) with which it is connected.
6. Sensor nach Anspruch 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß unmittelbar vor dem Ansatz eines Verbindungsstegs (24) an die Verbindungsbahn (12), die 9 - -6. Sensor according to claim 5, characterized in that immediately before the approach of a connecting web (24) to the connecting track (12) 9 - -
Verbindungsbahn (12) ein Deformationselement (14, 16) ausbildet.Connecting path (12) forms a deformation element (14, 16).
7. Sensor nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Tragstruktur gitterförmig angeordnete Verbindungsbahnen (12) umfaßt, welche über Deformationselemente (14, 16) miteinander verbunden sind. 8. Sensor nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die drucksensiblen Schaltelemente (18) mit elektrischen Anschlußleitungen (26) versehen sind, welche in die Verbindungsbahnen (12) integriert sind.7. Sensor according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the supporting structure comprises grid-shaped connecting tracks (12) which are connected to one another via deformation elements (14, 16). 8. Sensor according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the pressure-sensitive switching elements (18) are provided with electrical connecting lines (26) which are integrated in the connecting tracks (12).
9. Sensor nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 8, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Tragstruktur zwei zusammmengeklebten Folien umfaßt, und die Anschlußleitungen (26) und Schaltelemente (18) zwischen den beiden Folien angeordnet sind. lO.Sensor nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 9, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Schaltelemente (18) drucksensible Widerstandsensoren sind.9. Sensor according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the support structure comprises two films glued together, and the connecting lines (26) and switching elements (18) are arranged between the two films. 10. Sensor according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the switching elements (18) are pressure-sensitive resistance sensors.
11. Sensor nach Anspruch 10, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Schaltelemente (18) eine Flächenelektrode, eine mit Halbleitermaterial beschichte Fläche, die der Flächenelektrode gegenüberliegt, und einen Abstandhalter umfassen.11. Sensor according to claim 10, characterized in that the switching elements (18) comprise a surface electrode, a surface coated with semiconductor material, which lies opposite the surface electrode, and a spacer.
12.Sensor nach Anspruch 11 , dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Flächenelektrode auf einer ersten Folie und die Halbleiterfläche auf einer zweiten Folie aufgebracht sind, wobei die erste und zweite Folie durch eine Abstandhalterfolie getrennt sind.12.Sensor according to claim 11, characterized in that the surface electrode is applied to a first film and the semiconductor surface on a second film, the first and second films being separated by a spacer film.
B.Anwendung des Flächensensors nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 12 zur Druckprofilaufnahme.B. Application of the surface sensor according to one of claims 1 to 12 for recording pressure profiles.
H.Anwendung des Flächensensors nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 12 in einem gepolsterten Sitz.H. Application of the area sensor according to one of claims 1 to 12 in a padded seat.
15.Anwendung des Flächensensors nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 12 zur Druckprofilaufnahme in Schuhen. 15. Use of the surface sensor according to one of claims 1 to 12 for recording pressure profiles in shoes.
PCT/EP1999/000443 1998-01-30 1999-01-23 Pressure sensitive surface sensor WO1999039168A1 (en)

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LU90209A LU90209B1 (en) 1998-01-30 1998-01-30 Pressure sensitive area sensor

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LU90578B1 (en) * 2000-05-05 2001-11-06 Iee Sarl Sensor mat for vehicle
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US6868734B2 (en) 2001-09-12 2005-03-22 Robert Bosch Gmbh Sensor for recognition of seat occupancy
EP1457391A1 (en) 2003-03-10 2004-09-15 IEE INTERNATIONAL ELECTRONICS & ENGINEERING S.A. System for detecting seat occupancy
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EP1492136A1 (en) * 2003-06-23 2004-12-29 IEE International Electronics & Engineering S.A.R.L. Foil-type pressure sensor
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FR2870798A1 (en) * 2004-05-27 2005-12-02 Faurecia Sieges Automobile Motor vehicle seat, has flexible layer with two sides placed in respective baize packets for being maintained against seat cushion surface, where one packet allows sliding of one side at its interior, parallel to surface
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US7726207B2 (en) 2006-02-16 2010-06-01 Iee International Electronics & Engineering S.A. Pressure sensing mat
DE102011107008A1 (en) 2011-07-09 2013-01-10 Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft Vehicle seat with seat heater, has control unit that is operated based on determined seat load and heating rate, for individually controlling or regulating heating circuits used for heating seat main portion and backrest
CN110171383A (en) * 2019-06-05 2019-08-27 辽宁尚泽电子科技有限公司 A kind of multilevel control system and method for safe automobile air bag
CN110171383B (en) * 2019-06-05 2020-06-26 辽宁尚泽电子科技有限公司 Multistage control system and method for automobile safety airbag

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