Capacitive wetness sensor and method for manufacturing the same

摘要

A sensor device for sensing wetness in an absorbent article worn by a subject includes one or more sensing elements; and a coupling for communicating sensor signals between the one or more sensing elements and a receiver. A change in environmental parameter causes a change in electrical behavior of at least one of the sensing elements, which behavior can be analyzed to determine occurrence of a wetness event in the absorbent article. The changes in electrical behavior are communicated in the sensor signals to the receiver. The analysis may be by the receiver or a processor in communication with the receiver. Ideally, the sensing elements include capacitive elements and preferably, resonance circuits.

主权项

1. A sensor device for detecting a wetness in an absorbent article worn by a subject, the sensor device including:
(a) one or more capacitive sensing elements formed by first conductive member and a second conductive member separated by a dielectric region; and (b) a coupling for communicating sensor signals between the one or more sensing elements and a receiver;
wherein a change in wetness caused by a wetness event in the absorbent article causes a change in capacitance for at least one of the sensing elements, which change in capacitance is detectable to determine occurrence of a wetness event in the absorbent article, and wherein the changes in capacitance are communicated in the sensor signals to the receiver; andwherein at least one of the one or more capacitive sensing elements includes a third conductive member and wherein a change in capacitance between first and second conductive members of the at least one capacitive sensing element is detectable relative to a change in capacitance between one of (i) the second and third conductive members, and (ii) the first and third conductive members.