Strain monitoring system and apparatus

摘要

A system for monitoring strain as an indicator of biological conditions, such as spinal fusion, glucose levels, spinal loading, and heart rate. The system includes an inter-digitated capacitor sensor, and RF transmitter, and an associated antenna, all of which are microminiature or microscopic in size and can be implanted in a biological host such as a human or animal. An inductively coupled power supply is also employed to avoid the need for implantation of chemical batteries. Power is provided to the sensor and transmitter, and data is transmitted from the sensor, when an external receiving device, such as a handheld RF ID type receiver, is placed proximate the location of the implanted sensor, transmitter and inductively coupled power supply. The implanted sensor, transmitter and inductively coupled power supply can be left in place permanently or removed when desired.

主权项

1. A method of detecting strain with a strain sensor apparatus, the method comprising:
arranging an area variation motion sensor for biological implantation; forming an area variation capacitor with at least two plates; providing a capacitance from said capacitor; coupling said plates to a surface; configuring said plates to allow movement with bending of said surface; creating a change in area between said plates with said movement; creating a change of capacitance with said movement; and detecting strain as a result of said change of capacitance.