JP2020008437A - Pressure-sensitive sensor and manufacturing method therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a pressure-sensitive sensor and a manufacturing method therefor with which it is possible to prevent the positional deviation of a measurement region and stably measure applied pressure while taking advantage of the flexibility of cloth, and which can be made to a suitable size for measuring over a wide range of pressure distribution and constituted to achieve high productivity while suppressing material costs.SOLUTION: A pressure-sensitive sensor 1 comprises: a plurality of first electrode cloths 3 disposed at first intervals on the first principal surface of a conductive cloth 2; a plurality of second electrode cloths 4 disposed at second intervals on the second principal surface of the conductive cloth 2 in a direction crossing the first electrode cloths 3; and a suture thread 5. An intersecting region V1 of the first electrode cloths 3 with the second electrode cloths 4 is formed in a matrix arrangement, with the first electrode cloths 3 sewn to the conductive cloth 2 by the suture thread 5 and the second electrode cloths 4 sewn to the conductive cloth 2 by the suture thread 5.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a pressure sensor for measuring biological information and a method for manufacturing the same.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, a pressure-sensitive sensor has been used for measuring pressure distribution of a sleeping figure in a bed or pressure distribution of a sitting posture in a chair or the like as biological information for the purpose of nursing, promoting health, and the like. For applications that measure biological information by contacting the body in this way, a pressure-sensitive sensor that can measure a wide range of pressure distribution with a large size corresponding to the body is required while having flexibility with little discomfort to the body. ing.

  Conventionally, a cloth composed of a conductor coated with a mixture containing a conductive polymer and a binder resin, and a conductive material arranged side by side so as to abut both conductive surfaces of the cloth. A plurality of conductive linear members made of fibers coated with molecules, the plurality of linear members arranged substantially parallel on the surface of the conductive surface, substantially parallel on the back surface of the conductive surface There has been proposed a pressure-sensitive sensor that is disposed so as to be substantially orthogonal to the plurality of linear members arranged side by side (see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-108134).

  A first layer sheet, a second layer sheet, and a third layer sheet, wherein the first layer sheet and the third layer sheet have conductive paths on which conductive particles are applied at predetermined intervals; The orientation of the conductive path is transverse to the orientation of the conductive path of the third layer sheet, and a cloth pressure-sensitive sheet having electrical characteristics that changes with the pressure is proposed for the second layer sheet. (See Patent Document 2: U.S. Pat. No. 8,966,997).

JP 2014-108134 A U.S. Pat. No. 8,966,997

  The pressure-sensitive sensor described in Patent Literature 1 measures a pressing force in a state where a conductive cloth member and a conductive linear member are in point contact or line contact with each other. In the measurement, the resistance value becomes larger than that in the surface contact measurement, and the contact state is unstable and the resistance value fluctuation is large.

  In the pressure-sensitive sheet described in Patent Document 2, since the conductive noble metal particles are plated on the cloth, the material cost is significantly increased, and it is difficult to manufacture a large-sized pressure-sensitive sheet.

  Further, in the configurations of Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2, when the cloths are merely overlapped, the measurement area is easily displaced. In addition, when a conductive cloth and a conductive linear member are bonded to prevent displacement of the measurement region, or when the first layer sheet, the second layer sheet, and the third layer sheet are bonded, There is a problem that the flexibility of the cloth is impaired and the body becomes uncomfortable.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and it is possible to prevent displacement of a measurement area, to measure a pressing force stably while utilizing the flexibility of a cloth, and to obtain a size capable of measuring a wide range of pressure distribution. It is an object of the present invention to provide a pressure-sensitive sensor having a configuration that can be manufactured with high productivity while suppressing material costs, and a method for manufacturing the same.

  As one embodiment, the above-mentioned problem is solved by a solution as disclosed below.

  A pressure-sensitive sensor according to the present invention includes a conductive cloth, a first electrode cloth disposed on a first main surface of the conductive cloth, a second electrode cloth disposed on a second main surface of the conductive cloth, and a suture. Wherein the first electrode cloth has a plurality of first electrodes formed at a first interval, and the second electrode cloth has a plurality of second electrodes formed at a second interval. Are arranged so as to intersect with the first electrode, and a pressure-sensitive sensor in which an intersecting region between the first electrode and the second electrode is formed in a matrix arrangement, or a conductive cloth; A plurality of first electrode cloths disposed on one main surface at a first interval; and a plurality of second electrodes disposed on a second main surface of the conductive cloth at a second interval in a direction intersecting the first electrode cloth. A pressure-sensitive sensor comprising a cloth and a suture, wherein an intersecting region between the first electrode cloth and the second electrode cloth is formed in a matrix arrangement, With serial first electrode fabric is sewn to the conductive fabric by the suture, and said second electrode fabric is sewn to the conductive fabric by the suture.

  According to this configuration, since the electrode cloth is sewn and integrated with the conductive cloth, the displacement of the measurement area can be prevented, and a stable pressure measurement can be performed while utilizing the flexibility of the cloth. In addition, it is possible to make the size capable of measuring a wide range of pressure distribution. Then, it is possible to stably measure the pressing force in the state of the surface contact, and a configuration in which the productivity is high while the material cost is suppressed. Furthermore, since the position of the boundary of the intersection area is stabilized by sewing, the measurement accuracy of the pressing force in each intersection area can be improved.

  It is preferable that the sutures are sewn at positions outside the four corners of the intersection area or at the four corners of the intersection area. According to this configuration, the leakage current from the intersection area to the other intersection area can be prevented by sewing the suture, so that the S / N ratio of the detection signal output corresponding to the pressing force can be improved.

The conductive cloth is coated with first conductive particles, and the first electrode cloth and the second electrode cloth are coated with second conductive particles having higher electric conductivity than the first conductive particles. Has been engineered,
Preferably, the first conductive particles are conductive carbon black. According to this configuration, since the conductive carbon black is applied to the cloth, the body has a small amount of uncomfortable feeling and flexibility, and is applicable to the body without being restricted by equipment size such as plating equipment. A large size can be obtained, and a wide range of pressure distribution can be measured, and a stable pressing force can be measured in a state of surface contact. In addition, conductive carbon black has a branch-like structure structure, lowers the resistance value by a tunnel effect, and can be obtained at a lower cost than noble metals and conductive polymer compounds, so that the material cost is reduced. In addition, a configuration with high productivity is obtained. Furthermore, since the resistance value of the conductive cloth is larger than the resistance values of the first electrode cloth and the second electrode cloth, it is possible to reduce variation in resistance value and crosstalk depending on measurement positions. Since the intersection areas are formed in a matrix arrangement, the accuracy of measuring the applied pressure in each intersection area can be improved.

  A first electrode cloth disposed on a first main surface of the conductive cloth; and a second electrode cloth disposed on a second main surface of the conductive cloth, wherein the first electrode cloth has [m] at a first interval. ] First electrodes are formed, and the second electrode cloth is formed so that [n] number of second electrodes are formed at a second interval and the second electrodes intersect the first electrodes. A configuration in which the intersecting regions of the first electrode and the second electrode are formed in a matrix arrangement, or [m] number of [m] numbers arranged at a first interval on a first main surface of the conductive cloth. A first electrode cloth; [n] number of second electrode cloths disposed on a second main surface of the conductive cloth at a second interval in a direction intersecting the first electrode cloth; And an intersection area between the first electrode cloth and the second electrode cloth is formed in a matrix arrangement, and the first electrode cloth and the second electrode cloth are closer to each other by 50 [mmHg] in a compression direction. The resistance value Rc [Ω], which is the average value of the resistance in the thickness direction of the intersection area in a state where the external force is applied, is the average value of the resistance in the longitudinal direction of the two adjacent intersection areas in the longitudinal direction. It is preferable that a certain resistance value Re [Ω] satisfies the following expression (1).

(Equation 1)
1 <Re <(Rc / (m + n)) (1)

  According to this configuration, a stable pressure measurement can be performed while utilizing the flexibility of the cloth, and the size of the pressure distribution can be measured in a wide range, and the productivity is high while suppressing material costs. . In addition, since the surface resistance of the strip-shaped electrodes arranged above and below the conductive cloth is smaller than the surface resistance of the conductive cloth by two digits or more, the accuracy of measuring the applied pressure in each intersection region can be improved.

  The method of manufacturing a pressure-sensitive sensor according to the present invention includes a conductive cloth, a first electrode cloth disposed on a first main surface of the conductive cloth, and a second electrode cloth disposed on a second main surface of the conductive cloth. And a suture, wherein the first electrode cloth has a plurality of first electrodes formed at a first interval, and the second electrode cloth has a plurality of second electrodes formed at a second interval. A method for manufacturing a pressure-sensitive sensor, wherein a second electrode is disposed so as to intersect the first electrode, and an intersection region between the first electrode and the second electrode is formed in a matrix arrangement; A plurality of first electrode cloths disposed on a first main surface of the conductive cloth at a first interval; and a plurality of first electrode cloths disposed on a second main surface of the conductive cloth at a second interval in a direction intersecting the first electrode cloth. A plurality of second electrode cloths and a suture, and an intersection region between the first electrode cloth and the second electrode cloth is formed in a matrix arrangement. A method of manufacturing a pressure sensor, with stitching the second electrode pad to the conductive fabric by the suture, characterized in that the stitching on the conductive cloth the first electrode pad by the suture.

  According to this configuration, since the electrode cloth and the conductive cloth are integrated by a simple sewing operation, the displacement of the measurement area can be prevented, and a stable pressure measurement can be performed while utilizing the flexibility of the cloth. . In addition, it is possible to make the size capable of measuring a wide range of pressure distribution. Then, it is possible to stably measure the pressing force in the state of the surface contact, and a configuration in which the productivity is high while the material cost is suppressed. Furthermore, since the position of the boundary of the intersection area is stabilized by sewing, the measurement accuracy of the pressing force in each intersection area can be improved.

  According to the present invention, since the electrode cloth is sewn and integrated with the conductive cloth, the displacement of the measurement area can be prevented, and the pressure can be measured stably while utilizing the flexibility of the cloth. In addition, it is possible to make the size capable of measuring a wide range of pressure distribution. Then, it is possible to stably measure the pressing force in the state of the surface contact, and a configuration in which the productivity is high while the material cost is suppressed. Furthermore, since the position of the boundary of the intersection area is stabilized by sewing, the measurement accuracy of the pressing force in each intersection area can be improved.

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view illustrating an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3A is a schematic front view illustrating an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 3B is a schematic side view illustrating an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a sectional view taken along line IV-IV in FIG. FIG. 5 is a sectional view taken along line VV in FIG. FIG. 6A is a schematic sectional view showing a state in which a knot has been formed through a loop-shaped upper thread penetrating the electrode cloth and the conductive cloth by the sewing machine, and FIG. FIG. 6C is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a state in which the knot is arranged between the electrodes, and FIG. 6C is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a state in which the knot is repeatedly performed while moving the electrode cloth and the conductive cloth in a predetermined direction. FIG. FIG. 7A is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically illustrating an example of a contact state between the first electrode cloth and the conductive cloth, and FIG. 7B is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating another example of a contact state between the first electrode cloth and the conductive cloth. FIG. 7C is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing another example of a contact state between the first electrode cloth and the conductive cloth. FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view illustrating an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor according to the first embodiment, in a state where a controller is connected. FIG. 9 is a schematic plan view showing another example of the pressure-sensitive sensor according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view showing another example of the pressure-sensitive sensor according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a schematic plan view showing an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor according to the second embodiment. FIG. 13A is a schematic front view illustrating an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor according to the second embodiment, and FIG. 13B is a schematic side view illustrating an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor according to the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a schematic plan view illustrating an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor according to the second embodiment, in a state where a controller is provided. FIG. 15A is a resistance characteristic graph illustrating the relationship between pressure and resistance in the intersection region of the pressure-sensitive sensor, and FIG. 15B is a resistance characteristic graph illustrating the relationship between pressure and resistance in the intersection region of the pressure-sensitive sensor. is there. FIG. 16A is a resistance characteristic graph illustrating the relationship between pressure and resistance in the intersection region of the pressure-sensitive sensor, and FIG. 16B is a resistance characteristic graph illustrating the relationship between pressure and resistance in the intersection region of the pressure-sensitive sensor. is there. FIG. 17 is a pressure-sensitive characteristic graph illustrating the relationship between the pressure and the conductance in the intersection region of the pressure-sensitive sensor according to the present embodiment.

(1st Embodiment)
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view showing an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 of the present embodiment. FIG. 3A is a schematic front view illustrating an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 3B is a schematic side view illustrating an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor according to the first embodiment. For convenience of explanation, cover cloth, signal wiring, and the like are omitted in FIG. 1 and the like. In all the drawings for describing the embodiments, members having the same functions are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated description thereof may be omitted.

  Here, in order to facilitate the description of the positional relationship between the components of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1, the directions are indicated by arrows X, Y and Z in the figure. When the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 is actually used, it is not limited to these directions, and it does not matter if it is used in any direction. Note that the first main surface 2a and the second main surface 2b are surfaces opposite to each other, indicate a relative positional relationship, and the physical direction is not limited. The first main surface 2a can be replaced with, for example, the upper surface or the front surface. Further, the second main surface 2b can be read as, for example, a lower surface or a back surface.

  As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3A, and 3B, the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 includes a rectangular conductive cloth 2 and a plurality of conductive cloths 2 arranged on a first main surface 2a of the conductive cloth 2 at first intervals 2c. A band-shaped first electrode cloth 3, a plurality of band-shaped second electrode cloths 4 arranged on the second main surface 2 b of the conductive cloth 2 in a direction intersecting the first electrode cloth 3 at a second interval 2 d, And a suture 5. Here, the first electrode cloth 3 is disposed substantially parallel to the first main surface 2a of the conductive cloth 2, and the second electrode cloth 4 is disposed substantially parallel to the second main surface 2b of the conductive cloth 2. The second electrode cloth 4 is disposed so as to be substantially orthogonal to the first electrode cloth 3. In addition, the conductive cloth 2, the first electrode cloth 3, and the second electrode cloth 4 are not limited to a square shape, and may have a rounded square shape or an elliptical shape.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 4, the second electrode cloth 4 is connected to the conductive cloth by the suture 5 at the position of the first gap 3 a between the first electrode cloth 3 and the pressure-sensitive sensor 1. 2 sewn. Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the first electrode cloth 3 is sewn to the conductive cloth 2 by the suture 5 at the position of the second gap 4 a between the second electrode cloth 4 and the second electrode cloth 4. . Then, in a plan view, an intersection region V1 between the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 is formed in a matrix arrangement. 1 and 2, a hatched quadrangular region is illustrated as an intersection region V1.

  In the example of FIG. 2, the suture thread 5 is sewn so as to surround the intersection area V1. In addition, sutures 5 are sewn at positions outside the four corners of the intersection area V1. According to this configuration, since the leakage current from the intersection area V1 to the other intersection area V1 is reduced by sewing the suture 5, the S / N ratio of the detection signal output corresponding to the pressing force is improved. it can.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 4, the portion of the first electrode cloth 3 where the suture 5 is sewn is depressed by the tension of the suture 5. Further, as shown in FIG. 5, a portion of the second electrode cloth 4 where the suture 5 is sewn is depressed by the tension of the suture 5. According to this configuration, a dead zone is formed in the sewn portion by the vertical tightening of the suture 5 by sewing, and a dead zone is formed, so that a change in the resistance value in a portion other than the intersection region V1 is suppressed. The S / N ratio of the detection signal output according to the pressure can be improved. As a configuration other than the above, there is a case where sutures 5 are sewn at the four corner positions of the intersection region V1, and in this case, the same effect as the configuration shown in FIG. 4 can be expected.

  6A, 6B, and 6C are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating a procedure for sewing the first electrode cloth 3 and the conductive cloth 2 by the sewing machine. As an example, in the case of lock stitching, a knot is formed through the lower thread 5 on the loop-shaped upper thread 5 penetrating the first electrode cloth 3 and the conductive cloth 2 by a sewing machine (FIG. 6A), and the knot is pulled up. The knot is arranged between the first electrode cloth 3 and the conductive cloth 2 (FIG. 6B), and the knot is repeated while moving the first electrode cloth 3 and the conductive cloth 2 in a predetermined direction, and sewing is performed. (FIG. 6C). The case where the second electrode cloth 4 and the conductive cloth 2 are sewn by the sewing machine is the same as the sewing procedure shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C.

  In the present embodiment, the width of the first electrode cloth 3 in the short direction is larger than the width of the first space 2c in the short direction, and the width of the second electrode cloth 4 in the short direction is the second space 2d. It is larger than the width in the short direction. According to this configuration, since the leak current from the adjacent measurement point is reduced, the S / N ratio of the detection signal output corresponding to the applied pressure can be improved. The width in the short direction of the first electrode cloth 3 and the width in the short direction of the second electrode cloth 4 are, for example, 10 to 100 [mm], respectively. The width of the first space 2c in the short direction and the width of the second space 2d in the short direction are each 1 to 10 [mm], for example.

  In this embodiment, the thickness of the conductive cloth 2 is smaller than the width of the first space 2c in the short direction, and the thickness of the conductive cloth 2 is smaller than the width of the second space 2d in the short direction. According to this configuration, since the leak current from the adjacent measurement point is reduced, the S / N ratio of the detection signal output corresponding to the applied pressure can be improved. The thickness of the conductive cloth 2 is, for example, 0.3 to 0.6 [mm]. The thickness of the first electrode cloth 3 and the thickness of the second electrode cloth 4 are, for example, 0.2 to 0.6 [mm].

  In some cases, the electrodes of the first electrode cloth 3 are formed only on the surface facing the first main surface 2a of the conductive cloth 2, and in this case, the cost of the electrode material and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. Alternatively, the electrodes of the first electrode cloth 3 may be formed on the upper surface and the lower surface of the first electrode cloth 3, and may be formed over the entire circumference of the first electrode cloth 3. In this case, either the upper surface or the lower surface of the first electrode cloth 3 may be overlaid on the conductive cloth 2, so that the manufacturing becomes easy. Alternatively, the electrodes of the first electrode cloth 3 may be formed so as to be conductive in the thickness direction of the first electrode cloth 3, and in this case, the reliability of the conduction of the electrodes can be improved.

  In some cases, the electrodes of the second electrode cloth 4 are formed only on the surface facing the second main surface 2b of the conductive cloth 2, and in this case, the cost of the electrode material and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. Alternatively, the electrodes of the second electrode cloth 4 may be formed on the upper and lower surfaces of the second electrode cloth 4, and may be formed over the entire circumference of the second electrode cloth 4. In this case, either the upper surface or the lower surface of the second electrode cloth 4 may be overlaid on the conductive cloth 2, so that the production is facilitated. Alternatively, the electrodes of the second electrode cloth 4 may be formed so as to be conductive in the thickness direction of the second electrode cloth 4, and in this case, the reliability of the conduction of the electrodes can be improved.

  7A, 7B, and 7C are enlarged views of a portion P1 surrounded by a broken line in FIG. 3A, and are schematic cross-sectional views schematically illustrating an example of a contact state between the first electrode cloth 3 and the conductive cloth 2. It is. Here, the first conductive particles 11 are conductive carbon black, and the second conductive particles 12 are conductive metal particles 12a and conductive carbon black 12b. The conductive carbon black 11 is adhered to the conductive cloth 2 by the binder resin 13a, and the conductive metal particles 12a and the conductive carbon black 12b are adhered to the first electrode cloth 3 by the binder resin 13b. . The contact state between the second electrode cloth 4 and the conductive cloth 2 is the same as the contact state shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C. That is, the second conductive particles 12 having higher electric conductivity than the first conductive particles 11 are applied to the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4.

  In the present embodiment, the structure of the first conductive particles 11 causes the conductive cloth 2 to conduct in the thickness direction, the longitudinal direction, and the lateral direction (not shown). Further, the first electrode cloth 3 is electrically connected in the thickness direction, the longitudinal direction, and the lateral direction by the structure of the conductive metal particles 12a and the conductive carbon black 12b (not shown). The second electrode cloth 4 is similar to the first electrode cloth 3.

  In the present embodiment, the conductive carbon black 11 (12b) is at least one of Ketjen black, acetylene black, channel black, and furnace black having an average primary particle diameter of 100 nm or less. According to this configuration, since a required resistance value can be obtained with a small amount of addition, a conductive cloth having excellent scratch resistance and flexibility can be obtained.

  Furnace black is produced by a furnace method of incompletely burning oil or gas in a high-temperature gas to obtain conductive carbon black. Furnace black is suitable for mass production in manufacturing, and it is easy to control the particle size and structure.

  Channel black is produced by a channel method obtained by burning natural gas and collecting the precipitates on channel steel. Channel black is suitable for coating because it has many surface functional groups.

  Acetylene black is produced by an acetylene method obtained by thermally decomposing acetylene gas. Acetylene black has high conductivity and few impurities.

  Ketjen black is manufactured by the oil furnace method of incompletely burning low-impurity oil in high-temperature gas to obtain conductive carbon black.After separating by-product gas, the precursor is granulated and dried. Manufactured. Unlike other conductive carbon blacks, Ketjen Black has a hollow shell-like structure, and thus exhibits higher conductivity than acetylene black.

As an example, Lion Specialty Chemicals' Ketjen Black EC300J has a BET specific surface area catalog value of 800 [m ² / g], and Ketjen Black EC600JD has a BET specific surface area catalog value of 1270 [m ² / g]. g] or more, each of which is at least 10 times the BET specific surface area of standard acetylene black. Thereby, high conductivity can be obtained with a small amount of addition, so that a conductive cloth having excellent scratch resistance and flexibility can be obtained.

  As shown in FIG. 7A, the state in which the outer diameter size of the first conductive particles 11 and the outer diameter size of the second conductive particles 12 are substantially the same is when the first electrode cloth 3 and the conductive cloth 2 This is the best mode in which the contact resistance with the minimum is minimized. In the example of FIG. 7A, the contact area between the first electrode cloth 3 and the conductive cloth 2 is maximized to ensure a sufficient contact area, and the resistance value of the first electrode cloth 3 is Since the resistance value is appropriately smaller than the resistance value, it is possible to reduce the variation in the resistance value and the crosstalk depending on the measurement position. The second electrode cloth 4 is similar to the first electrode cloth 3.

  As shown in FIG. 7B, the state in which the outer diameter size of the first conductive particles 11 is 0.5 times or more and 2.0 times or less the outer diameter size of the second conductive particles 12 is as follows. This is a better mode in which the contact resistance between the first electrode cloth 3 and the conductive cloth 2 has an appropriately small value. In the example of FIG. 7B, most of the second conductive particles 12 of the first electrode cloth 3 and most of the first conductive particles 11 of the conductive cloth 2 are in contact with each other, and a necessary contact area is secured. And the crosstalk can be reduced. The second electrode cloth 4 is similar to the first electrode cloth 3.

  As shown in FIG. 7C, the state in which the outer diameter size of the first conductive particles 11 is 2.0 times or less and 0.5 times or more the outer diameter size of the second conductive particles 12 is as follows. This is a better mode in which the contact resistance between the first electrode cloth 3 and the conductive cloth 2 has an appropriately small value. In the example of FIG. 7C, most of the second conductive particles 12 of the first electrode cloth 3 and most of the first conductive particles 11 of the conductive cloth 2 come into contact with each other to secure a necessary contact area. And the crosstalk can be reduced. The second electrode cloth 4 is similar to the first electrode cloth 3.

  As shown in FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B, and FIG. 7C, in the present embodiment, the average primary particle diameter of the second conductive particles 12 is 0.5 times or more based on the average primary particle diameter of the first conductive particles 11. It is within the range of 2.0 times or less. According to this configuration, the contact area between the first electrode cloth 3 and the conductive cloth 2 and between the second electrode cloth 4 and the conductive cloth 2 can be increased to stabilize the contact state.

  In the present embodiment, the weight of the first conductive particles 11 is 5% or less based on the weight of the conductive cloth 2. According to this configuration, the conductive cloth 2 is excellent in scratch resistance and flexibility, and the material cost can be reduced.

  In this embodiment, a mixture of the first conductive particles 11 and a binder resin 13a having a breaking elongation of 100% or more is applied to the conductive cloth 2. Further, a mixture of the second conductive particles 12 and a binder resin 13b having a breaking elongation of 100% or more is applied to the first electrode cloth 3. In addition, a mixture of the second conductive particles 12 and a binder resin 13b having a breaking elongation of 100% or more is applied to the second electrode cloth 4. According to this configuration, a stable pressure measurement can be performed while utilizing the flexibility of the conductive cloth 2, the first electrode cloth 3, and the second electrode cloth 4.

  In the present embodiment, the conductive cloth 2, the first electrode cloth 3, and the second electrode cloth 4 are all woven fabrics, or the conductive cloth 2, the first electrode cloth 3, and the second electrode cloth 4 are all knitted. . According to this configuration, the pressure sensor 1 is excellent in elasticity, and has a large size corresponding to the body and can measure a wide range of pressure distribution while having flexibility with little discomfort to the body. .

  The first conductive particles 11 are adhered to the surface of the base cloth and the fibers of the conductive cloth 2 by the binder resin 13a. The second conductive particles 12 are adhered to the surface of the substrate cloth and the fibers of the first electrode cloth 3 by the binder resin 13b. The second conductive particles 12 are bonded to the surface of the substrate cloth and the fibers of the second electrode cloth 4 by the binder resin 13b.

  As an example, the conductive cloth 2 is formed by applying conductive carbon black (first conductive particles 11) and a binder resin 13a to a base cloth made of fiber. As an example, the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 are formed by coating conductive metal particles (second conductive particles 12) and a binder resin 13b on a base cloth made of fiber. As an example, the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 are made of the same material.

  In the present embodiment, the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 are coated with conductive metal particles, and the conductive cloth 2 is coated with conductive carbon black. The surface resistivity of each of the electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 is smaller than the surface resistivity of the conductive cloth 2 by two digits or more. According to this, since the influence of the resistance in the length direction of the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 is reduced, it is possible to improve the S / N ratio of the detection signal output corresponding to the pressing force. That is, the influence of the measured resistance in the intersection area V1 which is the pressure-sensitive portion can be almost ignored. In addition, the conductive cloth 2 having excellent dispersion stability can be constituted by conductive carbon black which is inexpensive as compared with the conductive metal particles. Further, it is possible to reduce the variation in the resistance value depending on the measurement position, and it is possible to reduce the crosstalk between the intersection region V1 and the intersection region V1.

  The base fabric is made of, for example, synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester, rayon, acrylic, and polyamide, and natural fibers such as cotton and linen. Since it is assumed that autoclave sterilization is performed at a medical site, these fibers having high resistance to autoclave sterilization are preferable.

  The base fabric is, for example, a woven fabric, a knitted fabric, or a nonwoven fabric. The thickness of the yarn or fiber constituting the base fabric is, for example, 50 to 200 denier. When the base fabric is a knitted or nonwoven fabric, the contact area with the body can be increased and the contact resistance can be reduced. When the base fabric is a knitted fabric, the stretchability is larger than that of a woven or nonwoven fabric, and the fabric is excellent.

  The first conductive particles 11 are made of, for example, conductive carbon black, for example, Ketjen black. Conductive carbon black has a branch-like structure, reduces the resistance value by a tunnel effect, and is available at a lower cost than noble metals and conductive polymer compounds. In particular, Ketjen Black provides a required resistance value with a small amount of addition, and thus becomes a conductive cloth having excellent scratch resistance and flexibility.

  The second conductive particles 12 are made of, for example, a conductive metal powder, a conductive metal fiber, a conductive polymer compound, a conductive carbon black, or a mixture thereof. The conductive metal is, for example, gold (Au), silver (Ag), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), aluminum (Al), or another known conductive metal. Examples of the conductive polymer compound include poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) doped with poly (4-styrenesulfonic acid) (PEDOT / PSS), tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ), polypyrrole (PPy), polyaniline (PANI), polythiophene (PT), or a known conductive polymer compound.

  The binder resin 13a and the binder resin 13b are made of, for example, a thermoplastic resin, a thermosetting resin, or a photocurable resin. The binder resin 13a and the binder resin 13b are, for example, polyamide (PA), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyurethane (PU), polyester (PEs), or a known synthetic resin.

  For the coating, a dipping method, a spray coating method, a roll coating method, a bar coating method, an electrodeposition method, other known coating methods, or a combination of these coating methods can be applied.

  The suture 5 is made of, for example, a synthetic fiber such as nylon, polyester, rayon, acrylic, or polyamide, or a natural fiber such as cotton or linen. The thickness of the suture 5 is, for example, 20 to 200 denier.

  The sewing is, for example, a sewing machine or hand sewing. For the sewing, for example, lockstitch, chain stitch, overlock stitch, flat stitch, and other known sewing methods are applied. In the case where the sewing is the main stitch, the place where the suture thread 5 is sewn on both the first main surface 2a (front) and the second main surface 2b (back) becomes a seam having no elasticity, and a dead zone is formed. Since the variation of the resistance value at a portion other than the intersection region V1 is suppressed, the intersection region V1 is formed in a matrix arrangement and easily functions as an independent pressure cell for individually extracting an electric signal.

  FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view illustrating an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 according to the first embodiment, and is a diagram illustrating a state where the controller 7 is connected. The controller 7 includes a signal wiring switching circuit, a signal detector, an A / D converter, a semiconductor memory, an arithmetic circuit, and a CPU that controls these.

  In the pressure-sensitive sensor 1, signal lines are connected to the ends of the plurality of first electrode cloths 3 b and the plurality of second electrode cloths 4 b in the longitudinal direction, and the frequency is one example by a switching circuit built in the controller 7. Is scanned at 10 to 100 [Hz], and the resistance value of the intersection area V1 formed in a matrix arrangement is individually detected in the order of milliseconds by the signal detector, A / D converted by the A / D converter, and semiconductor The data is stored by the memory, calculated by the arithmetic circuit, and finally displayed as a pressure value or a pressure distribution, or a pressure value and a pressure distribution on an external display device. As an example, as the controller 7 and the display device, a personal computer in which an interface board for signal connection with the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 is built can be applied.

  In the present embodiment, the [m] number of first electrode cloths 3 arranged on the first main surface 2a of the conductive cloth 2 at the first interval 2c and the first electrode cloth 3 on the second main surface 2b of the conductive cloth 2 are provided. [N] number of second electrode cloths 4 arranged at a second interval 2d in a direction intersecting with the first electrode cloth 3 and an intersection region V1 between the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 is formed in a matrix arrangement. . Here, [m] and [n] are natural numbers of 2 or more, respectively, and in the example of FIG. 8, m = 5 and n = 6.

  The present embodiment has a resistance value that is an average value of resistance in the thickness direction of the intersection region V1 in a state where an external force of 50 [mmHg] is applied in a compression direction in which the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 approach each other. With respect to Rc [Ω], the resistance value Re [Ω], which is the average value of the resistance in the longitudinal direction of the two intersecting regions V1 and V1 adjacent in the longitudinal direction, satisfies the above expression (1).

  As shown in FIG. 8, when the electrode pitch 3c of each first electrode cloth 3 in the row direction is equal to the electrode pitch 4c of each second electrode cloth 4 in the column direction, the above equation (1) is obtained.

  On the other hand, when the electrode pitch 3c of each first electrode cloth 3 is different from the electrode pitch 4c of each second electrode cloth 4, the electrode resistance value R1 [Ω] at the electrode pitch 3c of each first electrode cloth 3 in the row direction. ] And the electrode resistance R2 [Ω] at the electrode pitch 4c of each of the second electrode cloths 4 in the column direction, the resistance value Re [Ω] is calculated by the following equation (2).

(Equation 2)
Re = (m × R1 + n × R2) / (m + n) (2)

  FIG. 15A, FIG. 15B, FIG. 16A, and FIG. 16B are resistance characteristic graphs illustrating the relationship between pressure and resistance in the intersection region of the pressure-sensitive sensor.

  For example, when the first conductive particles are noble metal fine particles, the resistance value Re [Ω] is considerably smaller than 1 [Ω] (Re [Ω] << 1 [Ω]). In this case, as shown in FIG. 15A, the resistance characteristic graph of (1, 1) and the resistance characteristic graph of (m, n) in the intersection region formed by the matrix arrangement of (m, n) match. . However, the conductive precious metal particles must be plated on the cloth, which significantly increases the material cost and makes it difficult to produce a large-size pressure-sensitive sheet.

  As an example of the present embodiment, the first conductive particles 11 are conductive carbon black, and the resistance value Re [Ω] is set to a value larger than 1 [Ω] (1 [Ω] <Re [Ω]). In addition, the second conductive particles 12 are a mixture of the conductive metal particles 12a and the conductive carbon black 12b, and the resistance value Re [Ω] is divided by the resistance value Rc [Ω] by (m + n). The value is considerably smaller than the value (Re [Ω] << (Rc [Ω] / (m + n))). In this case, as shown in FIG. 15B, the resistance characteristic graph of (1, 1) and the resistance characteristic graph of (m, n) in the intersection region formed by the matrix arrangement of (m, n) are as shown in FIG. Similar to the graph of FIG. When the pressure is close to 50 [mmHg] or in the range where the pressure is 50 [mmHg] or more, the resistance characteristic graphs substantially coincide with each other at any position of the intersection region formed in the matrix arrangement.

  According to this configuration, a stable pressure measurement can be performed while utilizing the flexibility of the cloth, and the size of the pressure distribution can be measured in a wide range, and the productivity is high while suppressing material costs. . In addition, since the surface resistance of the strip-shaped electrodes (the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4) disposed above and below the conductive cloth 2 is smaller than the surface resistance of the conductive cloth 2 by two digits or more, each crossing is performed. The measurement accuracy of the pressing force in the region V1 can be improved.

  As an example of the present embodiment, the first conductive particles 11 are conductive carbon black, and the resistance value Re [Ω] is set to a value much larger than 1 [Ω] (1 [Ω] << Re [Ω]. In addition, the second conductive particles 12 are a mixture of the conductive metal particles 12a and the conductive carbon black 12b, and the resistance value Re [Ω] and the resistance value Rc [Ω] are (m + n). (Re [Ω] <(Rc [Ω] / (m + n))). In this case, as shown in FIG. 16A, the resistance characteristic graph of (1, 1) and the resistance characteristic graph of (m, n) in the intersection region formed by the matrix arrangement of (m, n) are as shown in FIG. 15B, the resistance value varies. In this case, since the variation of each resistance value is less than twice, it is possible to use the pressure sensor without any trouble by performing calibration in each intersection region.

  For example, the resistance value Re [Ω] is set to a value larger than the value obtained by dividing the resistance value Rc [Ω] by (m + n) (Re [Ω]> (Rc [Ω] / (m + n))). In this case, as shown in FIG. 16B, the resistance characteristic graph of (1, 1) and the resistance characteristic graph of (m, n) in the intersecting region formed by the matrix arrangement of (m, n) are as shown in FIG. 16A, the variation of the resistance value is larger. In this case, since the variation of each resistance value exceeds twice, it is difficult to use as a pressure-sensitive sensor even if calibration is performed in each intersection region.

  Subsequently, another example of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 of the first embodiment will be described below.

  FIG. 9 is a schematic plan view illustrating another example of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 according to the present embodiment. In this example, the stitches of the suture 5 are provided so as to be scattered on both sides in the longitudinal direction of the first electrode cloth 3 and both sides in the longitudinal direction of the second electrode cloth 4. It is assumed that the suture thread 5 is sewn so as to surround the intersection area V1. In this example, the sutures 5 are sewn at positions outside the four corners of the intersection area V1. As shown in FIG. 9, the intersection region V1 of the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 is formed in a matrix arrangement. According to this configuration, the elasticity of the base cloth of the conductive cloth 2, the first electrode cloth 3, and the second electrode cloth 4 can be prevented by the stitches of the suture thread 5 as much as possible. In addition, as a configuration other than the above, there is a case where the suture thread 5 is sewn at the positions of the four corners of the intersection area V1, and in this case, the same effect as the above configuration can be expected.

  FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view illustrating another example of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 of the present embodiment. In the example of FIG. 10, the width in the short direction of the first electrode cloth 3 and the width in the short direction of the second electrode cloth 4 near the center of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 are reduced in plan view, so that the pressure-sensitive As it approaches the center of the sensor 1, an intersection area V11 having an area smaller than the intersection area V1 is formed, and an intersection area V12 having an area smaller than the intersection area V11 is formed. Also in this case, the intersection region V1, intersection region V11, and intersection region V12 between the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 are formed in a matrix arrangement. According to this configuration, by performing pressure conversion in proportion to the area of each of the intersection region V1, the intersection region V11, and the intersection region V12, it is possible to approach the center of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 and increase the resolution with respect to the external pressure. . Note that the region for improving the resolution with respect to the external pressure is not limited to the central portion of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1, and a plurality of regions can be provided in a desired range.

(Second embodiment)
FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a schematic plan view showing an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 of the present embodiment. FIG. 13A is a schematic front view showing an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 of the second embodiment, and FIG. 13B is a schematic side view showing an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 of the second embodiment. For convenience of explanation, cover cloth, signal wiring, and the like are omitted in FIG. 11 and the like. In the second embodiment, a description will be given focusing on differences from the first embodiment.

  The present embodiment includes one first electrode cloth 3 disposed on the first main surface 2a of the conductive cloth 2 and one second electrode cloth disposed on the second main surface 2b of the conductive cloth 2, The first electrode cloth 3 has a plurality of first electrodes 3b formed at a first interval 2c, and the second electrode cloth 4 has a plurality of second electrodes 4b formed at a second interval 2d. 4b are arranged so as to intersect with the first electrode 3b, and an intersection region V1 between the first electrode 3b and the second electrode 4b is formed in a matrix arrangement.

  In the present embodiment, the width of the first electrode 3b in the short direction is larger than the width of the first space 2c in the short direction, and the width of the second electrode 4b in the short direction is short in the second space 2d. Greater than the width in the direction. According to this configuration, since the leak current from the adjacent measurement point is reduced, the S / N ratio of the detection signal output corresponding to the applied pressure can be improved. The width of the first electrode 3b in the short direction and the width of the second electrode 4b in the short direction are each 10 to 100 [mm] as an example. The width of the first space 2c in the short direction and the width of the second space 2d in the short direction are each 1 to 10 [mm], for example.

  In this embodiment, the thickness of the conductive cloth 2 is smaller than the width of the first space 2c in the short direction, and the thickness of the conductive cloth 2 is smaller than the width of the second space 2d in the short direction. According to this configuration, since the leak current from the adjacent measurement point is reduced, the S / N ratio of the detection signal output corresponding to the applied pressure can be improved. The thickness of the conductive cloth 2 is, for example, 0.3 to 0.6 [mm]. The thickness of the first electrode cloth 3 and the thickness of the second electrode cloth 4 are, for example, 0.2 to 0.6 [mm].

  In some cases, the first electrode 3b is formed only on the surface of the first electrode cloth 3 that faces the first main surface 2a of the conductive cloth 2. In this case, the cost of the electrode material and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. Alternatively, the first electrode 3 b may be formed on the upper surface and the lower surface of the first electrode cloth 3. In this case, regardless of which of the upper surface and the lower surface of the first electrode cloth 3 is overlapped with the conductive cloth 2, Good and easy to manufacture. Alternatively, the first electrode 3b may be formed so as to conduct in the thickness direction of the first electrode cloth 3, and in this case, the reliability of conduction of the electrode can be improved.

  The second electrode 4b may be formed only on the surface of the second electrode cloth 4 facing the second main surface 2b of the conductive cloth 2, and in this case, the cost of the electrode material and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. Alternatively, the second electrode 4 b may be formed on the upper surface and the lower surface of the second electrode cloth 4. In this case, even if the upper surface or the lower surface of the second electrode cloth 4 is overlaid on the conductive cloth 2. Good and easy to manufacture. Alternatively, the second electrode 4b may be formed so as to conduct in the thickness direction of the second electrode cloth 4, and in this case, the reliability of conduction of the electrode can be improved.

  In the second embodiment, the dimensions and the number of the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 are different from those of the first embodiment. Other sewing methods and positions, the first conductive particles 11 and the second conductive particles 12, and other components can be the same as those in the first embodiment.

  As an example other than the above, for example, the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 are formed of a woven fabric. A plurality of warp yarns, for example, a conductive yarn having a shell made of silver plating using nylon as a core and an insulating yarn made of nylon, for example, are alternately arranged. In addition, a plurality of insulating yarns made of, for example, nylon are sequentially woven to form a first electrode cloth 3 on which a plurality of striped electrodes are formed at predetermined intervals. Then, the second electrode cloth 4, which is the same as the first electrode cloth 3, is rotated by 90 ° in the horizontal direction to form a matrix electrode above and below the conductive cloth 2. Then, the first electrode cloth 3, the conductive cloth 2, and the second electrode cloth 4 are sewn at a portion not including the intersection region V1 with the suture thread 5. According to this configuration, the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 having a high degree of freedom in size that makes the most of the flexibility of the cloth can be obtained.

  FIG. 14 is a schematic plan view illustrating an example of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 according to the second embodiment, in a state where the controller 7 is connected. The controller 7 includes a signal wiring switching circuit, a signal detector, an A / D converter, a semiconductor memory, an arithmetic circuit, and a CPU that controls these.

  The present embodiment includes one first electrode cloth 3 disposed on the first main surface 2a of the conductive cloth 2 and one second electrode cloth 4 disposed on the second main surface 2b of the conductive cloth 2. The first electrode cloth 3 has [m] number of first electrodes 3b formed at the first interval 2c, and the second electrode cloth 4 has [n] number of second electrodes 4b formed at the second interval 2d. In addition, the second electrode 4b is disposed so as to intersect the first electrode 3b, and an intersection region V1 between the first electrode 3b and the second electrode 4b is formed in a matrix arrangement. Here, [m] and [n] are natural numbers of 2 or more, respectively. In the example of FIG. 14, m = 5 and n = 6.

  The present embodiment has a resistance value that is an average value of resistance in the thickness direction of the intersection region V1 in a state where an external force of 50 [mmHg] is applied in a compression direction in which the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 approach each other. With respect to Rc [Ω], the resistance value Re [Ω], which is the average value of the resistance in the longitudinal direction of the two intersecting regions V1 and V1 adjacent in the longitudinal direction, satisfies the above expression (1).

  As shown in FIG. 14, when the electrode pitch 3c of each first electrode cloth 3 in the row direction is equal to the electrode pitch 4c of each second electrode cloth 4 in the column direction, the above equation (1) is obtained.

  On the other hand, when the electrode pitch 3c of each first electrode cloth 3 is different from the electrode pitch 4c of each second electrode cloth 4, the electrode resistance value R1 [Ω] at the electrode pitch 3c of each first electrode cloth 3 in the row direction. ], And the resistance value Re [Ω] as a weighted average of the electrode resistance value R2 [Ω] at the electrode pitch 4c of each of the second electrode cloths 4 in the column direction is calculated by the above equation (2). The resistance characteristics of the pressure-sensitive sensor are the same as the graphs in FIGS. 15A, 15B, 16A, and 16B described above.

  Subsequently, a method for manufacturing the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 according to the present invention will be described below.

  The manufacturing procedure of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 is, for example, a conductive cloth forming step of forming a conductive cloth 2 by applying a dispersion of the first conductive particles 11 made of conductive carbon black to a first base cloth, and An electrode cloth formation in which a dispersion of the second conductive particles 12 having higher electric conductivity than the first conductive particles 11 is applied to the second base cloth to form the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4. With steps. For example, the first conductive particles 11 may be Ketjen black, the second conductive particles 12 may be a mixture of conductive metal particles 12a and conductive carbon black 12b, and the electrode cloth forming step may include elongation at break. Is mixed and applied with the binder resin 13a having a conductivity of 100% or more and the first conductive particles 11, and the conductive cloth forming step includes the step of forming a binder resin 13b having a breaking elongation of 100% or more and a second conductive material. The particles 12 are mixed and applied.

  According to this configuration, the pressure-sensitive sensor can be manufactured by a simple coating operation without being restricted by the equipment size such as the plating equipment. Since conductive carbon black can be obtained at a lower cost than noble metals and conductive polymer compounds, high productivity can be obtained while suppressing material costs.

  After the conductive cloth forming step and the electrode cloth forming step, the non-conductive suture thread 5 is used by the non-conductive suture 5 at the position of the first gap 3a between the first electrode cloth 3 and the first electrode cloth 3. Is sewn to the conductive cloth 2, and the first electrode cloth 3 is sewn to the conductive cloth 2 by the suture 5 at the position of the second gap 4 a between the second electrode cloth 4 and the second electrode cloth 4. There is a sewing step for forming an intersecting region V1 between the first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 in a matrix arrangement. In the sewing step, the suture thread 5 is sewn by a sewing machine.

  According to this configuration, the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 can be manufactured by a simple sewing operation without being restricted by the equipment size. Since the area of the electrode cloth to be sewn is smaller than the area of the conductive cloth, high productivity can be obtained while suppressing material costs. In addition, since the boundaries of the intersecting regions V1 for detecting the pressing force are formed by sewing, and the respective intersecting regions are formed in a matrix arrangement, the measurement accuracy of the pressing force in each intersecting region V1 can be improved.

  The pressure-sensitive sensor 1 manufactured as described above can be applied to, for example, a bed, a bed mat, a sheet, a bedsheet, a cushion, a chair mat, a health mat, and a carpet.

  For example, by incorporating the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 into a bed, a bed mat, a sheet, or a bedsheet, it is possible to measure a person's sleeping posture at bedtime, and to encourage a rollover by adjusting the air pressure of an air mat or the like, thereby preventing pressure ulcers. In addition, it is also possible to measure a heartbeat, a respiration, and the like as a heartbeat sensor or a respiration sensor by analyzing and calculating a pressure waveform of a predetermined portion.

  For example, by incorporating the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 into a cushion or a chair mat, the posture can be corrected by measuring the sitting posture of the person, detecting the movement of the person by detecting the absence, and adjusting the air pressure of the air cushion. Stiff shoulders and back pain can be prevented.

  For example, by incorporating the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 into a health mat or carpet, it is possible to measure the walking posture of a person or customize the shoes corresponding to the subject by measuring the foot pressure in a standing position. It is also possible to measure the weight of a person from the contact resistance, and it is also applicable to measurement of lifestyle such as movement of a person in a room.

  In general, in a pressure distribution measurement in a chair or a bed, the measurement range of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 can be sufficiently measured at a pressure of 10 to 200 [mmHg]. The frequency of measurement by the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 is high when the pressure is around 50 [mmHg].

[Example]
A mixture of ketjen black fine particles as the first conductive particles 11 and a mixture of urethane resin and water as a binder was applied to a nylon knitted fabric as a first base cloth to form a conductive cloth 2. A mixture of a mixture of silver fine particles 12a and conductive carbon black 12b as the second conductive particles 12 and a mixture of urethane resin as a binder and water is applied to a nylon knitted fabric as a second base cloth. The first electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 were formed. Then, the second electrode cloth 4 is sewn to the conductive cloth 2 with the nylon sutures 5 by the sewing machine, and the first electrode cloth 3 is sewn to the conductive cloth 2 with the nylon sutures 5. The intersection area V1 of the electrode cloth 3 and the second electrode cloth 4 was formed in a matrix arrangement, and the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 was prototyped.

  FIG. 17 is a pressure-sensitive characteristic graph illustrating the relationship between the pressure due to the airbag and the conductance in the intersection region V1 (second row, second column) of the prototype pressure-sensitive sensor 1. The vertical axis of the graph is conductance [μS], and the horizontal axis of the graph is pressure [mmHg].

  As shown in FIG. 17, the conductance increases (the resistance value decreases) by pressurization, and the conductance decreases (the resistance value increases) by decompression. The graph becomes a hysteresis curve due to the nature of the restoring force of the fiber. When the same pressure is continuously applied, the conductance gradually increases (the resistance value decreases) according to the elapsed time (not shown).

  As shown in FIG. 17, the conductance has the same slope at the time of pressurization and at the time of depressurization, which indicates that measurement with high reproducibility can be performed.

  The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various changes can be made without departing from the present invention. The shape and size of the pressure-sensitive sensor 1 may be appropriately changed in accordance with the specifications of known beds, bed mats, sheets, mattresses, cushions, chair mats, health mats, carpets, and the like.

1 pressure-sensitive sensor 2 conductive cloth, 2a first main surface, 2b second main surface, 2c first interval, 2d second interval 3 first electrode cloth, 3a first gap, 3b first electrode 4, second electrode cloth, 4a 2nd gap, 4b 2nd electrode 5 suture 7 controller 11 1st conductive particle (conductive carbon black)
12 Second conductive particles (mixture of conductive metal particles and conductive carbon black)
12a conductive metal particles, 12b conductive carbon black 13a, 13b binder resin V1 intersection area

Claims (8)

A first electrode cloth disposed on a first main surface of the conductive cloth, a second electrode cloth disposed on a second main surface of the conductive cloth, and a suture; The cloth has a plurality of first electrodes formed at first intervals, and the second electrode cloth has a plurality of second electrodes formed at second intervals and the second electrodes intersect the first electrodes. Pressure-sensitive sensor, wherein the intersection area between the first electrode and the second electrode is formed in a matrix arrangement, or
A conductive cloth, a plurality of first electrode cloths disposed on the first main surface of the conductive cloth at a first distance, and a second distance on a second main surface of the conductive cloth in a direction intersecting with the first electrode cloth. A plurality of second electrode cloths, and a suture, wherein a crossing region between the first electrode cloth and the second electrode cloth is formed in a matrix arrangement,
A pressure-sensitive sensor, wherein the first electrode cloth is sewn to the conductive cloth by the suture, and the second electrode cloth is sewn to the conductive cloth by the suture. 2. The pressure-sensitive sensor according to claim 1, wherein the suture is sewn at positions outside four corners of the intersection area or at four corners of the intersection area. 3. The pressure-sensitive sensor according to claim 1, wherein a portion where the suture is sewn is depressed by a tension of the suture. The pressure-sensitive sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the suture is non-conductive and sewn by a sewing machine. The conductive cloth, the first electrode cloth and the second electrode cloth are all woven fabrics, or the conductive cloth, the first electrode cloth and the second electrode cloth are all knitted fabrics. The pressure sensor according to claim 1. The conductive cloth is coated with first conductive particles, and the first electrode cloth and the second electrode cloth are coated with second conductive particles having higher electric conductivity than the first conductive particles. Has been engineered,
The pressure-sensitive sensor according to claim 1, wherein the first conductive particles are conductive carbon black. A mixture of the first conductive particles and a binder resin having a breaking elongation of 100% or more is applied to the conductive cloth, and the second conductive particles and a binder resin having a breaking elongation of 100% or more are provided. And a mixture of the second conductive particles and a binder resin having a breaking elongation of 100% or more is applied to the second electrode cloth. The pressure-sensitive sensor according to claim 6, wherein: A first electrode cloth disposed on a first main surface of the conductive cloth, a second electrode cloth disposed on a second main surface of the conductive cloth, and a suture; The cloth has a plurality of first electrodes formed at first intervals, and the second electrode cloth has a plurality of second electrodes formed at second intervals and the second electrodes intersect the first electrodes. And a method of manufacturing a pressure-sensitive sensor in which an intersecting region between the first electrode and the second electrode is formed in a matrix arrangement.
A conductive cloth, a plurality of first electrode cloths disposed on the first main surface of the conductive cloth at a first distance, and a second distance on a second main surface of the conductive cloth in a direction intersecting the first electrode cloth. A method for manufacturing a pressure-sensitive sensor, comprising: a plurality of second electrode cloths, and a suture, wherein an intersection region between the first electrode cloth and the second electrode cloth is formed in a matrix arrangement.
A method for manufacturing a pressure-sensitive sensor, wherein the second electrode cloth is sewn to the conductive cloth by the suture, and the first electrode cloth is sewn to the conductive cloth by the suture.