• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
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    • 专利摘要:
    The present invention relates to a sensor, system and method for detecting or recording the moisture or wetness of an article. Rather than conventional methods for detecting or registering moisture or wetness of an article such as visual inspection which requires constant inspection of the article and is not possible for many articles, or the use of chemically activated indicators which are generally intended for a single use, the present invention uses electrical charge to detect or record the moisture or wetness of an article. Thus, the present invention aims to provide a reusable way of detecting or recording moisture or wetness in different articles. The present invention can be used in applications where the humidity or wetness often changes.
    公开号:BE1026876B1
    申请号:E20195059
    申请日:2019-01-31
    公开日:2020-07-22
    发明作者:De Sande Benoît Van；De Sande Bram Van
    申请人:Tilkoblede Belgium Bvba；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    Len sensor, system and method for detecting or registering the moisture or wetness of an article,
    ; The present invention generally relates to a sensor, system and method for detecting or registering the moisture or wetness of an article 9 to which the sensor is mounted, | Background In a typical family, many different types of articles are used.
    When these articles are used, they may come into contact with a vice substance such as water and / or water opinions or mixtures.
    It may be that the presence of the vice substance is not immediately noticeable, so that no Lime and adequate countermeasures can be determined. The article must then be constantly monitored to determine the presence of water. One such article is a diaper, Once the diaper is put on, it is impossible to know whether there is any liquid q3 (such as urine) in the diaper, another example being a piece of clothing, for example a layer in a multi-layered outfit.
    The outfit may have an external waterproof layer with multiple underlayers to keep the drawer warm Le, If the waterproof layer is damaged and an outer layer of the underlayers is exposed to the weather elements, the outer layer may get wet.
    Due to the other intermediate layers between the carrier and the outer layer, it may be that the waterproof is damaged
    | Layer is not immediately visible to the wearer, resulting in further water penetration. 9 Chemically activated indicators are available that contain {different chemical compounds that contain a | chemical reaction when exposed: 10 to moisture, These indicators are generally intended | for single use and may not indicate hc amount: moisture is present. 9 Indicators containing sensors are also available, 9 15 using capacitive, resistive, inductive, optical sonar sensors, Summary of the invention
    In a first aspect, the present invention can be broadly understood
    Consist of a sensor for detecting or registering the moisture or wetness of an item to which the sensor is mounted, the zensor comprising:
    - a first pillar and a second plate, the first plate and the second plate being electrically conductive,
    "Wherein the first plate and second plate are oriented along and / or parallel to a sensor pocket, the sensor pocket being configured so that, in use, it is oriented substantially parallel to the article to which the sensor is attached,
    = wherein the first plate is between a first part of the second plate, and a second part of the second plate, In a further aspect, the first desl of the second claat is on or next to a first edge of the first plate, and the second part of the second plate being on or adjacent to a second edge of the first plate.
    ; 10 According to a further aspect, the serest edge is next to | the second vand and / ol where the first edge is opposite the | second edge.
    | According to a further aspect, each part of the second plate is always situated on one side of the first plate, according to a further aspect the second plate comprises one or more further parts, which are located on or next to one or more edges of the first plate.
    According to a further aspect, the first plate comprises an elongated strip. In a further aspect, the second plate comprises: a pair of elongated strips, each elongated strip of the pair of lance-shaped strips being one of the first part and the second part of the second plate, respectively. By the way, a further aspect is that the first plate is offset vertically from the second plate, and the serest plate is configured so that, when in use, it is closer to the article on which the sensor is mounted than the second plate, or wherein the second plate so configured | that, when in use, it is closer to the article to which the {sensor is mounted than the first plate, | In addition, a further aspect is provided between the first plate and the second plate 9, an intermediate layer,
    In a further aspect, the intermediate layer is an insulating 9 layer and / or a dielectric layer. | 10: In a further aspect, the Loop layer is a substrate 9 on which the first plate and second plate are attached. 9 According to a further aspect, the intermediate layer extends 15 past an edge of the first plate or second plate to provide a surface 9 on which electrical components can be mounted 9, furthermore, the electrical components are one 9 20 or more of: # - a microcontroller
    - a battery or other energy source
    - a comparator
    - an analoco-digital converter
    - an integrated component
    - a resistance
    - a transistor
    - a capacitor
    - an inductor
    - a switch - a diode and / or LED - a resonance crystal
    - an antenna - transistor - communication module: - a display module, | A further aspect is that the intermediate layer is less than 25mm thick, or between about 0.05 and 25mm thick, or between about 0.05mm and Z.5mm thick. | According to a further aspect, the first plate is provided on a | first side of the sensor, ds first side such that | configured to point to the used item. : 15 According to a further aspect, the second plate is provided on a: second side of the sensor, the second side being configured such that it is oriented away from the used | article, According to a further aspect, the sensor has a protective layer.
    In a further aspect, the protective layer is provided as an external layer configured to provide protection to the sensor. according to a further aspect, the protective layer is configured to encapsulate the sensor. Furthermore, a further aspect is whether the protective layer comprises one or more of: a polymer layer, or far, or latex paint, or rubber or glass.
    In a further aspect, the protection layer 9 is configured as an electrically insulating material. 9 According to a further aspect, the protective layer is so | 5 configured to be less than about 25mm thick, or: between about 5 and about 20mm thick,: In a further aspect, the Sensor includes a 9 mounting part, | A further aspect is the mounting part provided 9 on one side (optionally a first side) of the sensor. In a further aspect, the attachment part is configured to allow the sensor to be attached to the article. according to a further aspect, the fastening part allows the sensor to be connected to and disconnected from the article, furthermore the further part comprises the fastening part one or more of: - a hook and / or loop material - seen lim - a pin or button - no electrostatic attachment mechanism. A further aspect, the sensor is integral with the article.
    in a further aspect, the sensor comprises at least one insulating layer.
    According to a further aspect, the insulation layer is located on one side (optionally! A second side} of the sensor which is {configured to point away from the used | item, | 3 | In a further aspect, the insulation layer comprises a insulating 9 Let, 9 In a further aspect, the insulating layer of the | 10 insulating layer is a polymeric layer,: In a further aspect, the insulating layers comprises conductive | 9. In a further aspect, the insulating layer is configured to form the sensor Iscisert of the outside environment 9 According to a further aspect, the article is one or more of: 9 - a diaper - wverband {eg sen wondondcand} + bedding - clothing - a lid or pot = no object or material intended to absorb moisture take or absorb> an object or material that is intended to dry over time (eg concrete, or wood). In a further aspect, the present invention in a broad sense may comprise a sensor for detecting or registering the moisture or wetness of an article on which the sensor is mounted, the system comprising:
    & BE2019 / 5059 | - a regulator or processor, {- a sensor, where the sensor is configured to store an 9 electric charge, and the | storage capacity for electrical charging of the sensor 5 is based on the moisture or wetness of the | article,: - where the controller is configured to: load the sensor Le 9 during the first period, and then the first 9 period to drain the sensor during a second | 10 period, and after the second period an output signal from: the sensor Le meren, | - where the regulator is configured to determine a # sensor output signal indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article on | 15 based on the measured output signal from the sensor. In a further aspect, the sensor comprises one or more # plates ({optionally the plates are electrically conductive)}. 9 according to a further aspect, the sensor is the sensor according to one of the preceding paragraphs. According to a further aspect, the sensor is charged by applying or applying a voltage or potential difference across the sensor.
    According to a further aspect, the sensor is charged by providing or applying a scanning or potential difference over one or the first plate and one or the second plate. According to a further aspect, the sensor is charged with a constant voltage.
    In a further aspect, the first period is about 30 pa. By the way, a further aspect is the first period about 20 us, or about 10 us, or about 5 us, or about 2 us. In a further aspect, the second period is about 7 µs. | In a further aspect, the sensor is discharged via a; 10 known resistance. : In a further aspect, the output signal of the | sensor measured by an analog-to-digital converter {optional: via a voltage divider circuit}. | 15: In a further aspect, the system includes at least one: memory element. According to a further aspect: the system comprises one or more switches configured to be controlled by the aforementioned processor to charge and / or discharge the sensor (optionally the switches are one or more transistors), In a further aspect it is output signal indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article further based on an initial baseline measurement.
    In a further aspect, the sensor output signal is proportional to the wetness or moisture of the article.
    In a further aspect, the sensor output signal is / / higher when the article is wet or damp than when the article is drcog. | In a further aspect, the output signal from the sensor is lower when the article is dry than when the article 9 is wet or damp. 9 in a further aspect, the output signal is | 10 is indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article based on a comparison between a first derivative of | mains output signal from the sensor and a second derivative of 9 mains output signal from the sensor. In a further aspect, the present invention in a broad sense 9 may consist of a processor-implemented method for detecting or registering moisture or wetness of an article, the method comprising: - loading a sensor during a first period, and after the first period, - partially discharging the sensor during a second period, and after the second period, - measuring an output signal from the sensor, and - determining an output signal indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article on the basis of the measured output signal from the sensor. According to a further aspect, the sensor comprises one or more plates (the plates are electrically conductive).
    In a further aspect, the sensor is the sensor according to any of the previous paragraphs,
    : According to a further aspect, the sensor is charged by applying or applying a voltage or potential difference across the sensor: 5 According to a further aspect, the sensor is charged by scanning a potential difference over one or the first plate and one or the second plate to be provided. According to a further aspect, the sensor is charged with a constant voltage. 9 According to a further aspect, the first period is about 30:15. Furthermore, a further aspect is the first period about 20; pus, or about 10 us, or about 5 us, or about 2 us. : According to the further aspect, the second period is about 7 us.
    In a further aspect, the sensor is discharged through a known resistance.
    In a further aspect, the sensor output signal is measured via an analog-to-digital converter (optionally via a voltage divider circuit.) In addition, a further aspect is the processor copied and / or connected to at least one memory element.
    In a further aspect, one or more switches are configured to be controlled by the aforementioned processor to charge and / or discharge the sensor {optional; the switches are one or more transistors}. | A further aspect is the output signal which is indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article, further based on an initial zero measurement. | In a further aspect, the output of the sensor 9 is proportional to the wetness or moisture of the article. In a further aspect, the output of the sensor 9 is higher when the article is wet or damp than when the 9 article is dry,
    In a further aspect, the sensor output is lower when the article is dry than when the article is wet or damp,
    In a further aspect, the output signal indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article is based on a comparison between a first derivative of the sensor output signal and a second derivative of the sensor output signal,
    In a further aspect, the present invention may broadly comprise a processor-implemented method for determining the moisture or wetness of an article, the method comprising:
    = receiving a set of readings from a sensor indication for the moisture or wetness of the item,
    - calculating the first derivative of the difference between consecutive capital gains, calculating the second derivative of the difference 9 between consecutive L equations of the sermost 9 5 derivative, and comparing the calculation of the first derivative | and the calculation of the second derivative, | In a further aspect, receiving an honor includes | 10 measured values of a sensor that are indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article of the preceding process paragraphs. 9 A further aspect is the series of measured values of the | 15 sensor indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article the output signal indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article based on the measured output signal of the sensor according to one of the above sensor sections.
    In a further aspect, the sensor is the sensor according to any of the previous sensor sections. In a further aspect, the method is performed by the system according to any of the above system sections. In a further aspect, the calculation of the first derivative is further compared with at least a previous calculation of the first derivative.
    According to a further aspect, the calculation of the second derivative is further compared with at least one previous: calculation of the second derivative. | 5 According to a further aspect, no peak derivative peak and [no second derivative peak indicate that moisture or wetness | of the article as measured by the sensor is constant or 9 is unchanging, 9 10 In a further aspect, a small first {ai peak and no or almost no second derivative p eron | that the sensor is attached to an item. : In a further aspect, a major negative first F 15 derivative peak and a second derivative peak going from a 9 positive value to a negative value indicates that the 9 sensor has been scraped from an article that has a high moisture 9 or wetness content,: 20 In a further aspect, a positive first 9th conductive peak and a second derivative peak going from a negative value to a positive value indicate that the moisture or wetness of the article as measured by the sensor is rising. I may see a positive first derivative peak and a second derivative going from a negative value to a positive value, causing the item to approach the betrayal account.
    In a further aspect, a declining first algal peak and a thawing second derivative peak following an indication of an increase in the moisture or wetness of the article indicate that the article has reached saturation point,
    | It should be assumed that alternative # embodiments can be any or all combinations comprising two or more of the components, elements or | features, or applications that are illustrated, described or referred to in this description. 9 10 9 Brief description of the drawings: + Fig. 1 shows a bottom view of a sensor. | = Fig. 2 shows a top view of a sensor. 9 15 - Figures 3 to 5 show cross sections of a sensor 9, | = Fig. 6 shows an example of an output signal of 9 a Sensor, FIG. 7 is a top and bottom view of a system comprising a sensor, FIG. 8 depicts a system mounted on an article. = Fig. 9 shows a circuit of the sensor / system, = Fig. 10 shows a flow chart of a flour cycle for the system,> FIG. 11 shows a schematic overview of the system, = FIG. 12 graphically displays measured values from a sensor at different moisture or wetness levels, and other associated data points,
    Fig. 13 depicts a flowchart of a method using 1 ° and 2nd derivatives. 9 Derailled description of specific embodiments 9 5 # A sensor, system comprising the sensor, and a method for detecting or recording are disclosed | of the moisture or wetness of an item with sensor # attached. 3 19: The sensor may be configured to measure the presence of a: liquid or fluid. For example, in case the 9 item is a diaper for a child, the sensor may be configured 9 to measure the presence of urine, | The sensor 10 may be a sensor 10 which has an output signal indicative of the moisture or wetness of an article 28.
    The sensor 10 may be a capacitive sensor whose capacitance varies depending on the moisture or wetness in the article 28. An article with a relatively higher moisture content Would, for example, result in a relatively higher capacitance of the sensor 10 compared to an article with a relatively lower moisture content, In some embodiments, the sensor may be a sensor where the charge storage capacity of the sensor changes depending on the moisture or wetness in the article 28, For example, an article with a relatively higher moisture content would have a relatively higher charge storage capacity of the sensor
    10 compared to an article with a relatively lower moisture content. In some embodiments, the sensor may be an inductive sensor, and the inductance may vary based on the moisture content of the article, Figures 1 to 5 show a sensor 10.
    The sensor may include a first plate 11 and a second plate 12, the first; Plate il and the second plate 12 can be electrically conductive 9.
    The first panel il and second claat 12 can be made of | a metal material such as copper, or aluminum, or tin, or: 15 icod or any conductive alloy. | The first plate 11 and second plate 12 may be oriented along and / or substantially parallel to a sensor plane 13. The sensor plane 13, when used, may be directed substantially parallel to the article 28 to which the sensor 10 is mounted. The first plate 12 can be between a first part 14 of the second plate 12, and a second part 15 of the second plate 12, The first part 14 of the second plate 12 can be located next to a first edge 18 of the first plate 11, The second part 15 of the second plate 12 can be located on or next to a second edge 13 of the first plate 11,
    iR BE2019 / 5059 The first part 14 of the second plate 12 can be on or next to a first edge of the sensor. | The second part 15 of the second plate 12 may be either: 5 next to a second edge 10 of the sensor 10, the serest edge of the sensor 10 may be next to the second edge | and / or the first edge of the sensor 10 may be: opposite the second edge, 9 10 9 The first edge 18 of the first plate 11 may be next to the 9 second edge 19 and / or the first of 18 of the first # position 11 can be opposite the second of 19. Each part {for example the cerest part 14 and the second part 15} of the second plate 12 can each be located on one side of the first plate 11. The second plate 12 can comprise one or more further parts. The sen or several further parts can be located on or next to one or more edges of the first plate 11. The first plate 11 can be or have an elongated strip.
    The second plate 12 may include a pair of elongated strips. Each elongated strip of the pair of elongated strips may be one of the first part 14 or the second part 15 of the second plate 12. For example, the first plate il may be X or + shaped with each part of the second plate 12 extending intermediate arms or projections of the first plate 11, The first plate 11 and / or the second plate 12 may comprise at least one perpendicular section, 9 The second plate 12 may be about 50 mm long, and each part of the second plate, or the second plate may be about 15 mm or | 10 may be about 30 mm wide, # The first plate 11 may be about Sümm long, and about: bem wide, | The first plate 11 may be in the same plane as the second plate 12. The first plate li may be vertically offset from the Lweede plate 12. The first plate 11 may be configured so that, when in use, it is closer to the item 28 to which sensor 10 is mounted is then second plate 12. Dual plate 12 may be configured so that, when in use, it is closer to article 28 to which sensor 10 is mounted than first plate 11. Sensor 10 may include an intermediate layer 20 provided between the cerest plate 1! and the second plate 12.
    The intermediate layer 20 can be an insulating layer and / or a dielectric layer,
    | 26 BE2019 / 5059 The intermediate layer 20 can be a polymer or a glass fiber layer, or 9 a gas, or air or air-filled polymer bag ci any non-conductive and / or dielectric material or | In some embodiments, the intermediate layer 20 | 5 are a printed circuit board {PCB}. The intermediate layer 20 can be a substrate on which the first | plate and second plate are placed, etched and / or attached. | The intermediate layer 20 may extend beyond an edge of the # 10 first plate 13 or second plate 12 about a surface or area to which on which electrical components K 3 can be attached. 9 in some embodiments, the sensor or system may include one 9 or more wings to provide a surface or area for electrical components to be | confirmed. | The electrical components can be housed in one or more housings.
    The housing can protect the electrical components of the surrounding environments.
    The electrical components can be one or more of: - a micro-controller and / or processor - a battery or other energy source - a comparator - an analog-digital converter - an integrated component - a resistor - a capacitor - an inductor - a switch - a diode and / or LED
    - a resonance crystal - an antenna - a Transistor - a communication module. - a display module,; The intermediate layer 20 may be less than 25mm thick, or between about 0.05 and 25mm thick, or between about 0.05mm and 2.0mm thick, 9 10 9 The first plate 17 may be provided on a first side 9 21 of the sensor, The first side 21 is configured in such a way that it faces the used article 28, | The second plate 12 can be provided on a second side | 22 of the sensor.
    The second side 22 may be configured to face away from the article 28 used, The system and / or the sensor 10 may have a protective layer 23, for example as illustrated in Figures 7 and B, The protective layer 23 may be provided as an external layer configured to provide protection to the system and / or sensor.
    The protective layer 23 may be configured to encapsulate the system and / or the sensor.
    The protective layer 23 can be a polymer layer.
    The protective layer 23 may comprise one or more of: paint, ol latex paint, or rubber or glass,
    The protective layer 23 may be configured as an electrically ascending material.
    The protective layer 23 may be configured to provide an S waterproof cover to prevent water from entering pin 10 in sensor 10. ; The protection layer 22 may be configured to | is less than about 25mm thick, between about 5 and about | 10 20 mm dix. 9 As illustrated, for example, in FIG. 7, the sensor 10 may include a mounting member 24. : 15 The mounting part 24 may be provided on one side and / or | a service side of the sensor 10. The mounting portion 24 may be configured to allow the mounting of the sensor 10 on the article 11. FIG. 8 shows the sensor 10 mounted or attached to a diaper using the fastening part 24, The fastening part 24 may allow the sensor 10 to be connected and disconnected from the article 28, The sensor 10 could be removed, for example and replaced if necessary, or removed and transferred to another item.
    In some embodiments, the sensor 10 can be reused multiple times on different items 28,
    2% BE2019 / 5059 The fixing shaft part 24 may comprise one or more of: - a hook and / or loop material {- an adhesive [- a pin or button | 5 - an electrostatic fastening mechanism. In some embodiments, the article 28 may include a bag 9 or a feature intended to secure the sensor 10 keep, 3 10 | The sensor 10 and / or the system can form one whole with the: article 28. 9 The sensor 10 can comprise at least one insulating layer 25. The insulating layer 25 can be on one side and / or the second | side 22 of the sensor 10 and may be configured 9 to point away from the used article 28. The insulating layer 25 may comprise an insulating layer 26. The insulating layer 26 of the icing layer 25 may be a polymer layer. In some embodiments, the insulating layer 25 may include glass fiber, or glass, or a printed circuit board (PCB), an air, or a gas bag. In some embodiments, one or more of the first sheet 11 and / or the second sheet 12 may be placed, etched and / or attached to the insulating layer 25.
    The insulating layer 25 may comprise a conductive plate 27.
    The conductive plate 27 can provide a conductive surface. The insulating layer 25 can be configured to isolate the sensor from the outside environment. | 5 The item can be one or more of: a diaper, a 9 bandage (for example a wound dressing), bed linen, clothing or 9 sen garment, or any type of lid or jar, object or material intended to absorb moisture. or at | 10 absorb, or an object or material intended to dry after 9 vericop time {e.g. concrete or wood). In some embodiments, the article may be a wound dressing. When the dressing is applied around a wound 15 it can be difficult to know if and how much liquid, such as his citer or other body secretions, or outside water, is available under the bandage, Also discloses a system 9 comprising a sensor 10, Also discloses a method for detecting or recording the moisture or wetness of a item to which the system is attached. The system 93 can control the moisture or wetness of an article
    The system 9 may include a controller or processor. The system 9 may include a sensor 10 to which the system is attached. The sensor 12 can be the sensor as described above.
    The sensor 10 may be configured to silane an electrical charge, and the electrical storage capacity of the sensor is based on the moisture or wetness of the article. | 5 9 The controller can be configured to charge the sensor | during a first period 50, and after the first period 50 | the sensor discharges during a second period 51, and after the second period 51 an output signal from the sensor more, | 10 | The version period 50 and / or the second period 51 can be | determined. : Fig. 6 shows an example of loading and unloading the 9 15 sensor - which is explained in more detail below, FIG. 9 2 shows an example of part of the circuit 9 for the system and FIG. 10 again shows an example of a 9 measuring cycle of the sensor.
    The measuring cycle 64 contains a loading phase 60, a partial discharging phase 61, and a meliase 62, The measuring cycle 64 can be done in a sequential manner, with the loading phase & 0 taking place first, followed by the partial unloading phase 61, and then the measuring phase 62, After the or each measuring cycle 64 may discharge the sensor 10 until it is in equilibrium.
    The multi-cycle can be performed several times per second.
    In the loading phase 60 of the measuring cycle 64, the sensor 10 is charged for a first period 50 to a time T1.
    At this point it is the sensor output signal, in this case
    | a voltage across the sensor 10, V1 or V2. The sensor 10 is charged by applying a voltage across the sensor 10, for example by selecting switch si as [illustrated in FIG. 3, 9 5 # In the partial discharge phase 61 of the measuring cycle 64, the sensor 10 is partially discharged during a second | period 51 from Suffer Ti) to time T2. At this point, a | output signal of the sensor, in this case a voltage across | 10 the sensor 10, Via or VZa.
    In the partial discharge phase 61 9, the sensor 10 is discharged. In some embodiments 9, the switch S2 is closed to provide an additional discharge path | to provide a higher discharge rate. The # switch SZ can be opened at the end of the: 15 discharge phase 61. 9 In the measuring phase 62 of the measuring cycle & 4 a 9 output signal of the sensor is measured.
    The output signal 9 can be based on how much the sensor is charged and / or how much the sensor is discharged.
    In some embodiments, the sensor output signal may be based on an electrical property of the sensor.
    In some embodiments, the sensor output signal may be based on the voltage across the sensor, or some other voltage in the circuit, or a current from the sensor (e.g. a known resistance). In the circuit of FIG. % for example, the output signal is voltage measured at point A.
    In fig. 3 the output signal is measured using a voltage divider circuit and an analog-digital converter. The sensor output is then sent to the processor or controller 33,
    En BE2019 / 5059 Based on the sensor output signal, the processor or controller 33 can determine an output signal indicative of the moisture or wetness of the 9 item based on the measured output signal from the sensor | 5, 10, 9 as illustrated in FIG. 6, line 52 gives an example | of a flour cycle 64 for a sensor again where moisture 9 GÉ wetness is present, while line 53 is an example | 10 represents a measurement loop 64 for a sensor where: no moisture or wetness is present, 9 For line 52 where moisture or wetness is present at time TI, 9 the voltage VL is the same as the voltage V2 for line 53 | 15 where no moisture is present at the sensor 10. The sensor 9 has a greater charge storage capacity when there is moisture than 9 when there is no moisture.
    Consequently, at the same charge time # {the first period 50) and a charge time that ensures that sensor 10 is fully charged regardless of the moisture content, when moisture is present, sensor 10 will store more charge than sensor 10. no moisture is present, but the voltage across the sensor will be the same im.av, Vi = V2), Then, at the end of the partial discharge phase 62, the output voltage of the sensor will be 10 Via for line 52 where humidity or wetness is present 15 are greater than the voltage V2a for line 53 where there is no moisture, The processor or controller 33 can communicate the output signal indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article based on an external device 31 via communication module 30,
    The sensor 10 can comprise one or more plates. The plates can be electrically conductive. The plates can have any of the properties or characteristics of the plates described above. The sensor 10 can be charged by applying or applying a voltage or potential difference across the sensor. | The sensor 10 can be charged by a voltage or | cotentisis difference over one or the first plate and one or the: second plate Le provided. : The sensor can be charged with a constant voltage. : 15 # The first period can be about 30 us. The cerest period may be about 20 us, or about 10 us, or about £ us, or about 2 us.
    The second period can be about 7 us. The sensor is discharged via a known resistance.
    The sensor's output signal is measured by an analog digital converter and / or by a voltage divider circuit or any other suitable measuring method.
    The system can include at least one memory element 34.
    The system may include one or more switches (for example, si and SZ} configured to be controlled by the
    # 5 BE2019 / 5059 the aforementioned processor for charging and / or discharging the sensor.
    The switches can be any switch known [5 to the person skilled in the art, for example one or more transistors. 9 The sensor output signal can be proportional to the | wetness or moisture of the item. | The sensor output may be higher when the article is wet or damp than when the article is dry. 9 The sensor output signal may be lower when the | the article is dry when the article is wet or damp. Fig. 9 11 shows a schematic overview of the system. 9 The system may comprise one or more communication modules 30, The communication module 30 may be provided as a 9 part of the processor or other electrical components. The communication module 30 can provide communication between the system and an external device 31. The communication module 30 can provide communication via a wired and / or wireless connection. The communication module 30 may be configured to provide any output from the sensor and / or the system. A co-module may also be provided. The display module can display any invited signal from the sensor and / or the system. In some embodiments, the output signal is indicative BEFORE the moisture or wetness and the saturation point of the article using the first 9 and the second derivative of the difference between consecutive 9 measured values from the sensor, as illustrated in fig. 13. {The output signal indicative of humidity or wetness | 5 and the saturation point of the article is further based: on the comparison between serzte and second derivatives of the difference between the consecutive measured values of the 9 output signal of the sensor. | 10 Pig. 12 shows a graph with a series of gains from 9 the sensor over time and the corresponding first and 9 second derivatives of these values, # not determining the output signal indicative of the moisture or wetness and the saturation point of the article based on a comparison between the first and second derivatives will be further explained.
    With each period, the sensor performs a measurement cycle as described in Fig. 6. That measuring cycle is repeated and is independent of the previous cycles.
    Each blade cycle provides a value. Each reading is taken by loading and de-icing the sensor as illustrated in and described in Fig. 6. The value obtained oc TZ is used as the measured value, each value obtained at TZ is taken and stored as a surplus value as a basis for analysis.
    In one embodiment, multiple values are obtained at T2 for each measurement cycle, the number of values is averaged to determine the gain for the measurement cycle, this helps to eliminate noise,
    | 31 BE2019 / 5059 Line 120 of Fig. 12 shows an example of a series of measurements after vericop of time as described above For a sensor as it passes through a number of phases (121, 123, [125, 127, 129, 131, 133) ranges from varying moisture or wetness levels of the article, as will be described, | # The output signal indicative of humidity or wetness | of the article is based on an initial nu measurement or a previous 9 measurement, as illustrated by line 122. The initial | baseline measurement in this embodiment are the measured values of the | 10 sensor taken before the sensor is placed on the article, 9 as illustrated by region 121 of the graph in Fig. 12.
    : The baseline measurement or previous measurement depends on the | material used to build the sensor.
    9 15 In some embodiments, after a measure has been taken 9 by the sensor, the nu measurement or previous measure 9 is removed from this value, as illustrated by the | values of line 124 in FIG. 12.
    It should be assumed that in this embodiment the controller or processor determines a first derivative of the difference between the successive gains at each period. It should be assumed that in this embodiment the controller or processor will then have a second derivative of the difference. between the successive calculations of the first derivative at each period.
    Line 128 shows the series of calculations of the first derivative for the measurements shown by line 124 after losing tisd, Line 126 shows the calculations of the Lweede derivative over time,
    In this embodiment, each first derivative and Lwesde derivative are calculated in real time as the sensor takes the gains.
    9 5 Bens calculated, the serst and second derivative are compared 9 by the controller or processor, This comparison between the | calculations of the first and second can be derived used to determine when the moisture or wetness of the 9 article has changed and / or when the saturation point | 10 of the article has been reached, In this embodiment, the controller or processor 9 compares the current or most recent first and second derivative 9 data points. In some embodiments, the F15 controller or processor also compares the current or most recent first 9 derived data point with previous first derived data points, and 9 just current or most recent second derived data point with | previous second derived data points.
    9 20 By comparing these data points, the different starts of varying humidity or wetness, including the saturation point, can be determined. As explained below by way of example and with reference to FIG. 12, the different regions of graph 121, 123, 125, 127, 129, 131, 133 each indicate an example of a different or varying moisture or wetness content of the sensor or article.
    First, no first derivative peak and no second derivative peak indicate that the sensor is in a constant or unchanging state of humidity or wetness. This is displayed in region ii where the sensor has not yet been placed on the article, and region 127 where the sensor reads a constant moisture or moisture content,
    9 A small first derived peak and no or almost no second | 5 derived peak indicates that the sensor is mounted on a | article.
    This is shown by way of example in | region 123 of FIG. 12. | A major negative first derivative peak and a second | 10 derived peak that goes from positive to negative means that the sensor 15 is removed from an article with a high | moisture or wetness content. An example of this is shown in region 133. F 15 A positive eersion derived peak and second release sidepeak 9 going from negative to positive means the 9 moisture or wetness content Loeneemi.
    This is shown # in region 125 was the humidity or wetness is tremendous 9. 9 20 Zen Slightly positive first derivative peak and a second derivative peak that goes from negative to positive calculates that the article is approaching its saturation point.
    This is shown in region 129 of Fig. 12,
    A descending first aide conductor peak and a descending Lweede derivative peak following states indicating also a change in the moisture or wetness levels as described with respect to regions 123, 125 or 123 of FIG. 12 means that the article has reached its saturation point,
    {It should be assumed that different items will have different saturation points and the Saturation point of each item will be determined by the material of the item. : 5 In some embodiments, once the 9 saturation point of the article has been reached, and determined by the controller or processor, this will elicit a signal. This signal may indicate to the user the saturation of the 9 10 article. 9 Unless clearly clear from the context, throughout 9 the description and the claims should use the words Vonval ”, | "Comprising", and the like, is to be understood in an inclusive # 15 sense and not in an exclusive or exhaustive sense, in other words, in the sense of "including, but not limited to". Where, in the above description, reference was made to integers or components that have known equivalents thereof, those integers are incorporated herein as if they were set forth individually. In a broad sense, it can also be stated that the invention consists of the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the description of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of the the aforesaid parts, elements or features.
    References to any antericities in this description do not constitute, and should not be construed as,
    an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that this anteriority is part of the general professional knowledge in the
    technical area in any country in the world. | 5 Certain features, aspects and benefits of some configurations of the present invention are described with | reference to the use of the gas humidification system 9 in a respiratory treatment problem.
    However, certain 9 features, aspects and benefits of using the | Gas humidification system As described may advantageously be used in other therapeutic or non-therapeutic systems that require the humidification of gases 9. Certain features, aspects and advantages of the 9 methods and apparatus of the present invention may also be used for use in other systems.
    While the present invention has been described in terms of certain embodiments, other embodiments obvious to those skilled in the art also fall within the scope of this invention.
    Consequently, various modifications and adaptations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, for example, different components can be moved as desired, moreover, not all features, aspects and advantages are necessarily required for the present invention, therefore within the scope of the present invention intended to be defined only = by the following conclusions.
    权利要求:
    Claims (1)
    [1]
    | Conclusions, | Le Zen sensor for detecting or registering the | 5 moisture or wetness of an item on which the sensor is | attached, the sensor comprising: - a first plate and a Lweede plate, wherein the first 3 plate and the second plate are electrically conductive, 9 "where the first plate and second plate are oriented F 10 along and / or parallel to a sensor plane, where the: sensor violet is configured so that, when in use, it is oriented: essentially parallel to the article to which the 9 sensor is attached, 9 - the first plate being between a first part of the 15 Lweede plate, and a second part of the second plate 9. The sensor according to claim 1, wherein the service part of the second plate is located on or next to a first edge of the first plate, and wherein the second part of the second plate is located on or next to a second edge of the first plate.
    The sensor according to claim 2, wherein the first edge is adjacent to: the second edge and / or wherein the serest edge is opposite the second edge.
    The sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each part of the second plate is in each case on one side of the first plate,
    The sensor according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second plate comprises one or more further parts located on or adjacent one or more edges of the first plate. The sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first plate comprises an elongated strip. The sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein | the second plate comprises a row of elongated strips, where | each elongated strip of the pair of elongated strips one | 10 of the first part or the second part of the second plate | is: 5. The sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein 9 is the first plate offset vertically from the second plate 9, and wherein the first plate is 9 configured so that, in use, it is closer is near the article 9 on which the sensor is mounted than the second plate, or where the second plate is configured such that, in use, it is closer to the article on which the sensor is mounted than the serest plate, 3, The sensor according to a of claims 1 to 8, wherein an intermediate layer is provided between the first plate and the second plate.
    The sensor of claim 9, wherein the intermediate layer is an insulating layer and / or a dielectric layer.
    The sensor according to claim 3 or claim 10, wherein the Lussenlazg is a surface on which the first plate and the second plate are mounted.
    The sensor of any one of claims 3 to 11, wherein the intermediate layer extends beyond an edge of the first plate or second plate to provide a surface on which | electrical components can be attached, {5 | The sensor according to claim 12, wherein the electrical components are one or more of: 9 - a microcontroller 9 - a battery or other energy source | 10 - a comparator: - an analog-to-digital converter - an integrated component 9 - a resistor 9 "pin transistor | 15 - sen capacitor 9 - an inductor
    - sen switch
    - a diode and / or LED
    - no resonance crystal
    - seen antenna
    - a transistor
    - a communication module
    - a display module,
    The sensor of any one of claims 3 to 13, wherein the intermediate layer is less than 25mm thick, or between about 1.05 and Zämm thick, or between about 0.05mm and 2.5ram thick,
    The sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the first plate is provided on a first side of the sensor, the first side being configured to face the used article. 1st. The sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the second plate is provided on a second side of the sensor, the second side being configured such that; it is aimed away from the item used. ; The sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 16, 9 wherein the sensor has a protective layer. ; The sensor according to claim 17, wherein the | protective layer bezel is configured as an external layer 9 to provide protection Le to the sensor. : 15: 19 The sensor of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein | the protective layer is configured to encapsulate the sensor.
    The sensor according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the protective layer is one or more of or comprising one or more of: a polymer layer, or paint, or latex paint, or rubber or glass.
    The sensor according to any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein the protective layer is configured as an electrically insulating material.
    The sensor according to any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein the protective layer is configured to be less than about 25 mm thick, or between about 5 and about 20 mm thick,
    The sensor according to any of claims 1 to 22, wherein the sensor comprises a mounting part. 9 cd, The sensor according to claim 23, wherein the | 5 b The protection section is provided on one side (optionally a 9 first side) of the sensor. The sensor according to claim 23 or claim Zé, wherein | the mounting part is configured to allow on | Attaching the sensor to the article, 26, The sensor according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the mounting part allows the sensor to be connected to and disconnected from the article 9. 9 15 9 27. The sensor according to any one of claims 23 to 26, 9 wherein the mounting part comprises one or more of: 9 = a hook and / or loop material = one glue = one pin or button = one electrostatic fixing mechanism,
    The sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the sensor is integral with the article. The sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the sensor comprises at least one insulating layer. The sensor according to claim 23, wherein the insulating layer is on one side (optionally a second side) of the sensor configured to point away from the article when in use.
    BE2019 / 5059 {31. The sensor according to claim 29 or claim 30, wherein the insulating layers comprise insulating layer, {32. The sensor according to claim 31, wherein the insulating: layer of the insulating layer is a polymer layer. 33. The sensor according to any of claims 29 to 32, wherein the insulating layer comprises a conductive plate. The sensor according to any one of claims 29 to 33, wherein the insulating layer is configured to be the sensor | is isolated from the outside environment. The sensor according to any one of claims 1 Lot 34, 9 15, wherein the article comprises one or more of: # - a diaper - a bandage {for example a wound dressing) = Linen - clothing - cover or pot - an object ol material intended to absorb or absorb moisture - object or material intended to dry over time (eg concrete, or wood},
    36. A system for detecting or registering the moisture or wetness of an article to which the system is mounted, which system comprises: - a controller or processor, - a sensor, the sensor being configured to store an electric charge, and wherein the electric charge storage capacity of the sensor
    9 is based on the humidity or wetness of the 9 article, {> where the controller is configured to: 9 - charge the sensor Le during a first period, [5 and discharge the sensor after the first period 9 during the second period, and measure an output signal from the sensor after the second 9 period, 3 - with the controller configured or a | Determine output signal of the sensor Le indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article cp 9 based on the measured output signal of the sensor: 37 The system according to claim 26, wherein the sensor comprises 9 or more plates {optional the plates are electrically conductive). The system of claim 35, or claim 37, wherein the sensor is the sensor of any one of claims 1 to 35, 32. The system of any of claims 36 to 36, wherein the sensor is charged by a voltage or foresee or apply a potential difference across the sensor.
    The system of any one of claims 36 to 33, wherein the sensor is charged by applying or applying a voltage or potential difference across one or the first plate and one or the Lweede plate.
    The system of any one of claims 36 to 40, wherein the sensor is charged with a constant voltage.
    ; dz. The system of any one of claims 36 to 41, wherein the first period is about 30 µs.
    The system of any of claims 36 to 42, wherein the first period is about 20 µs, or about 10 µs US, or about 5 µs, or about 2 ps; ; 3 22 2 US, UT ABOUT MS. The system of any one of claims 36 to 43, wherein the second period is about 7 µs. The system according to any one of claims 36 to 44 de-ionizing the sensor via a known resistor. | The system of any one of claims 36 to 45, wherein the sensor output is measured by an analog digital converter (optionally via a: voltage divider circuit). | 47, The system of any one of claims 36 to 46, wherein: the system comprises at least one memory element, 48. The system according to any one of claims 36 to 48, | the system comprising one or more switches configured 9 to be controlled by the aforementioned Processor | 25 controlled to charge and / or discharge the sensor (optional | the switches are one or more transistors). The system of any one of claims 36 to 48, wherein the output indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article is further based on an initial zero measurement.
    The system according to any one of claims 36 to 49, wherein the sensor output is proportional to the wetness or moisture of the article. 3 5 Si. The system according to any one of claims 36 to 50, wherein the sensor output is higher when the article is wet or damp than when the article is dry | is. The system of any of claims 36 to 51, wherein the sensor output is lower when | the article is dry than when the article is wet or damp F 18,
    The system according to any one of claims 36 to 52, wherein the output signal indicative of the | The moisture or wetness of the article is based on a comparison between the first derivative of the sensor output signal and a second derivative of the sensor output signal.
    54. A process-controlled method for detecting or registering moisture or wetness of an article, the method comprising: = colading a sensor during a first period, and after the first period, - discharging the sensor in part second period, and after the second period, - measuring an output signal from the sensor, and ordering an output signal indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article based on the measured output signal from the sensor.
    The system according to claim 54, wherein the sensor comprises one or more plates (optionally the plates are electrically conductive), 56. The method according to claim 54, or claim 55, wherein the sensor is the sensor according to any of the claims 9 to 35, 57. The method of any one of claims 54 to 56, wherein the sensor is charged by applying or applying a voltage or potential difference across the sensor: 58 The method of one of claims 54 to 57, wherein the sensor is charged by providing a voltage or differential differential across one or the first plate and one or the second plate,
    The method of any of claims 54 to 58, wherein the sensor is charged with a constant voltage. Gi, The method of any one of claims 54 to 539, wherein the first period is about 30 µs.
    The method according to any one of claims 54 to 60, wherein the first period is about 20 µs, or about 10 µS sem put 5 - ie], or about 5 µs, or about 2 µs.
    The method of any of claims 54 to 61, wherein the second period is about 7 µs.
    63, The method of any one of claims 54 to 62, wherein the sensor is discharged through a known resistor, Gé.
    The method according to any of claims 54 to 53; 5 wherein the sensor output signal is measured by; an analcog-digital converter (optional via a voltage cable circuit). 65. The method of any one of claims 54 to 64,; 10 with the processor coupled and / or connected to 9 at least one memory slot. ; 66, The method according to any one of claims 54 to 65, wherein sen or more switches are configured such that they are controlled by said provessor to charge and / or discharge the sensor (optionally the switches are: sen or more transistors. The method according to any one of claims 54 to 66, wherein the output indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article is further based on an initial zero measurement. The method according to any one of claims 54 to 67, wherein the sensor output is proportional to the wetness or moisture of the article. The method of any one of claims 54 to 68, wherein the zensor output is higher when the article is wet or damp than when the article is wet. article dry 18,
    The system of any of claims 54 to 69, wherein the sensor output is lower when the article is dry than when the article is wet or damp | is.
    The system according to any one of claims 54 to 70, wherein the output signal indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article is based on sen | comparison between a first derivative of the sensor output signal and a second derivative of the | sensor output signal.
    9 TE. Know a processor-implemented method for determining the moisture or wetness of an article, the method comprising: 9 - receiving a series of measured values from a sensor indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article, - calculating the first derivative of the difference between successive readings, - calculating the second derivative of the difference between computational subtractions of the first derivative, and - comparing the calculation of the first derivative and the calculation of the second derivative,
    The method of claim 72, wherein receiving a set of flour values from a sensor indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article comprises the method of any one of claims 54 to 71.
    7A, The method of claim 72 or claim 73, wherein the series of sensor readings indicative of the moisture or wetness of the article is the | output signal which is indicative of the power or | 5 wetness of the article based on the measured | output signal of the sensor according to any one of claims 9 to 54. The method according to any one of claims 72 to 74, wherein the sensor is the sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 35.
    F 76. The method of any one of claims 72 to 75, wherein the method is performed by the system of 9 is any one of claims 35 to 53. The method according to any one of claims 72 to 76, wherein the calculation of the first derivative is further compared with at least a previous calculation of the first derivative. 78, The method of any one of claims 72 to 77, wherein the calculation of the second derivative is further compared to at least a previous calculation of the second derivative, 78, The method of any of claims 72 to 78, wherein no first derivative peak and a second derivative peak indicates that the moisture or wetness of the article as measured by the sensor is constant or unchanging.
    : 49 BE2019 / 5059 | 80. The method of any one of claims 72 to 79, wherein a small first derivative peak and no or almost no second derivative peak indicates that the sensor is attached to) an article, | {81. The method according to any one of claims 72 to 80 where a large negative first derivative peak and a second # derivative peak that from a positive value to a negative | value, indicates that the sensor has been removed from sen # 10 item that has high humidity or wetness, [SZ.
    The method according to any one of claims 72 to 80 where a positive first derivative peak and a second 9 derivative peak that from a negative value to a positive | 15 value indicates that the moisture or wetness of the 9 article as measured by the sensor is increasing. 83. The method of any one of claims 72 to 82, wherein a slightly positive first derivative peak and a second | 20 conductor peak going from a negative value to a positive 9 value indicates that the article is approaching its saturation point: 9.
    Ga, The method of any one of claims 72 to 83, wherein a descending first derivative peak and a descending second derivative peak following an indication of an increase in moisture or wetness of the article indicate that the article has reached its saturation point.
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    EP3887812A2|2021-10-06|
    BE1026876A1|2020-07-13|
    CA3121274A1|2020-06-04|
    AU2019387394A1|2021-06-24|
    WO2020110057A3|2020-09-24|
    SG11202105687YA|2021-06-29|
    KR20210122232A|2021-10-08|
    US20220015955A1|2022-01-20|
    BR112021010283A2|2021-08-17|
    JP2022509851A|2022-01-24|
    CN113424056A|2021-09-21|
    WO2020110057A2|2020-06-04|
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    法律状态:
    2020-08-26| FG| Patent granted|Effective date: 20200722 |
    2021-10-06| MM| Lapsed because of non-payment of the annual fee|Effective date: 20210131 |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    NZ74881118|2018-11-28|
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