| 摘要 |
<p>An embedded semiconductor pressure sensor for externally sensing he pressure within a body is disclosed. The pressure sensor includes a pliable housing (166) which substantially conforms to the body when pressed against the body by, for example, a belt secured through slots (168, 169) passing through the housing. A button (172) protruding from an exterior surface of the housing transfers force from the exterior surface to an interior cavity when the housing is pressed against the body. A solid state force sensor is located within the interior cavity of the housing adjacent to the button. The solid state force sensor receives the transferred force, detects the force, and generates an electrical signal representative of the force. Thus, the pressure sensor generates an electrical signal representing the pressure within the body. The solid state force sensor is sealed within the solid housing to provide environmental protection. The solid state force sensor (180) includes a piezoresistive integrated circuit which generates an electrical force signal when deformed by the force being measured. The integrated circuit is encased within a package having a movable piston (186) which tranfers the force from the button to the integrated circuit. A protective disk (187) and a spring (185) disposed over the movable piston provide further protection for the sensor. The pressure sensor can be used, for example, as an intra-uterine pressure sensor for generating electrical signals indicative of contractions during labor.</p> |
