Touchpad, pressure touch device and electronic device

Abstract

The application provides a touchpad, a pressure touch device and an electronic device. The pressure sensor assembly of the touchpad comprises an elastic support and at least three pressure sensors. The elastic support has at least three cantilever arms, including two first cantilever arms and at least one second cantilever arm. The two first cantilever arms are arranged at opposite ends of the elastic support, and the second cantilever arm is arranged at the middle section of the elastic support. The free end of each cantilever arm is provided with a pressure sensor. The two first cantilever arms and the at least one second cantilever arm can elastically support the touchpad, so that the touchpad has at least three support positions. The middle region of the touchpad is prevented from sinking and affecting the detection accuracy, thereby improving the detection accuracy. The pressure sensor is arranged on each cantilever arm to detect the pressure received by the cantilever arm, thereby determining the pressure received by the touchpad.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic technology, and more particularly to a touchpad, a pressure touch device, and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] A touchpad is an input device used in electronic devices to control the cursor on the screen. By detecting minute changes in capacitance when a user's finger operates on the panel area, the touchpad obtains high-resolution finger coordinates and other touch information to precisely control the movement and clicking of the screen cursor.

[0003] To improve the ease of touchpad operation, pressure-sensitive touchpads are gradually becoming a new trend. Pressure-sensitive touchpads eliminate physical buttons, simulating mouse button operation through pressure detection and vibration feedback. Currently, however, pressure-sensitive touchpads suffer from low pressure detection accuracy. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a touchpad, a pressure touch device, and an electronic device to solve the technical problem of low pressure detection accuracy of existing pressure touchpads.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] A first aspect of this application provides a touchpad, comprising: a printed circuit board, a pressure sensor assembly, and a touch controller; the printed circuit board has opposing first and second surfaces, the first surface of the printed circuit board being provided with touch sensing electrodes for sensing the touch position of a finger when the finger touches or presses the touchpad and outputting a corresponding touch sensing signal; the pressure sensor assembly is disposed on the second surface of the printed circuit board, the pressure sensor assembly including an elastic support and at least three pressure sensors; the elastic support has at least three cantilever arms, the at least three cantilever arms including two first cantilever arms and at least one second cantilever arm, the two first cantilever arms... The first cantilever is disposed at one of the two opposite ends of the elastic support, and the second cantilever is disposed in the middle section of the elastic support. The free end of each cantilever is provided with a pressure sensor, which is used to deform under the pressure applied when the finger presses the touchpad, and the pressure sensor outputs a corresponding pressure sensing signal. The touch controller is mounted and fixed on the second board surface of the printed circuit board and is electrically connected to the touch sensing electrode and the pressure sensor. It is used to receive the touch sensing signal and the pressure sensing signal from the touch sensing electrode and the pressure sensor and determine the touch position of the finger on the touchpad and the magnitude of the pressure applied by the finger.

[0007] Compared with the prior art, the touchpad provided by the first aspect of this application has the following advantages:

[0008] The touchpad of this application is equipped with a pressure sensor assembly for detecting pressure applied to the touchpad. The pressure sensor assembly includes an elastic support and at least three pressure sensors. The elastic support has at least three cantilever arms, including two first cantilever arms and at least one second cantilever arm. The two first cantilever arms are located at opposite ends of the elastic support, and the second cantilever arm is located in the middle section of the elastic support. Each cantilever arm has a pressure sensor mounted on its free end. Thus, not only can the first cantilever arms at the ends of the elastic support elastically support the touchpad, but the second cantilever arms in the middle section can also elastically support the touchpad, thereby supporting the middle area of ​​the touchpad. This provides at least three support positions for the touchpad, preventing the middle area from sagging and affecting detection accuracy, thus improving detection accuracy. Each pressure sensor is mounted on a cantilever arm to detect the pressure applied to the cantilever arm, thereby determining the pressure applied to the touchpad. The pressure sensor assembly of this embodiment increases the number of pressure sensors and the number of pressure detection positions, improving the pressure detection accuracy of the touchpad. Compared to setting up additional structural support for the touchpad, the embodiments of this application do not add new assembly steps, which can ensure production efficiency and avoid additional costs.

[0009] As an improvement to the touchpad described in this application, the fixed end of the second cantilever is located at the center of the elastic bracket.

[0010] As an improvement to the touchpad described in this application, the elastic support is elongated, the free end of the first cantilever extends in the same direction as the length extension direction of the elastic support, and the free end of the second cantilever extends in a direction perpendicular to the length extension direction of the elastic support.

[0011] As an improvement to the touchpad described in this application, the touchpad further includes: a flexible circuit board, the flexible circuit board being disposed on the second surface of the printed circuit board, the flexible circuit board including ribbon cables, the ribbon cables of the flexible circuit board being electrically connected to pressure sensors disposed on the first cantilever and the second cantilever respectively; the ribbon cables electrically connected to the pressure sensors disposed on the first cantilever are S-shaped.

[0012] As an improvement of the touch panel described in this application, the flexible circuit board is provided with ribbon cable pins; the second cantilever and the ribbon cable pins are located on the same side of the elastic bracket; and the elastic bracket is provided with a clearance groove for avoiding the ribbon cable pins, the clearance groove being provided on the edge of the elastic bracket on the side where the second cantilever is provided.

[0013] As an improvement to the touchpad described in this application, the elastic bracket has one side edge of the fixed end of the second cantilever recessed inward to form the clearance groove; and the free end of the second cantilever protrudes from the opening of the clearance groove.

[0014] As an improvement to the touchpad described in this application, a portion of the elastic bracket bends toward the side where the fixed end of the second cantilever is provided and protrudes from the elastic bracket to form the clearance groove; and the free end of the second cantilever is flush with the opening of the clearance groove.

[0015] As an improvement to the touchpad described in this application, the elastic bracket forming the avoidance groove has a dimension greater than or equal to 3 mm along the extension direction of the second cantilever.

[0016] As an improvement to the touchpad described in this application, the yield strength of the elastic bracket is greater than or equal to 150 MPa; the elastic bracket is a stainless steel bracket with a thickness greater than or equal to 0.4 mm, or the elastic bracket is an aluminum bracket with a thickness greater than or equal to 0.8 mm.

[0017] As an improvement of the touchpad described in this application, the second surface of the printed circuit board has two opposing long sides; at least two pressure sensor assemblies are provided, and the at least two pressure sensor assemblies extend along the long side direction of the second surface of the printed circuit board, and the at least two pressure sensor assemblies are respectively close to the two long side edges of the second surface of the printed circuit board.

[0018] As an improvement to the touchpad described in this application, the touchpad further includes: a reinforcing plate, which is fixedly connected to the second surface of the printed circuit board; and an actuator, which is mounted on the second surface of the printed circuit board and electrically connected to the touch controller, for providing vibration feedback in response to the pressure applied by the finger.

[0019] A second aspect of this application provides a pressure-sensitive touch device, comprising: a touch panel for providing an input interface for finger touch or pressing; a printed circuit board having opposing first and second surfaces, the first surface of the printed circuit board being provided with touch sensing electrodes; a pressure sensor assembly disposed on the second surface of the printed circuit board, the pressure sensor assembly including an elastic support and at least three pressure sensors; the elastic support having at least three cantilever arms, the at least three cantilever arms including two first cantilever arms and at least one second cantilever arm, the two first cantilever arms being respectively disposed at opposite ends of the elastic support, and the second cantilever arm being disposed in the middle section of the elastic support; each of the cantilever arms having a pressure sensor disposed on its free end, for deforming under the pressure applied when the finger presses the touch panel, and the pressure sensor outputting a corresponding pressure sensing signal.

[0020] The pressure touch device provided in the second aspect of this application has the same advantages as the touch panel described in the first aspect because it includes the pressure sensor assembly of the touch panel described in the first aspect.

[0021] As an improvement to the pressure touch device described in this application, the fixed end of the second cantilever is located at the center of the elastic support.

[0022] As an improvement to the pressure touch device described in this application, the elastic support is elongated, the free end of the first cantilever extends in the same direction as the length extension direction of the elastic support, and the free end of the second cantilever extends in a direction perpendicular to the length extension direction of the elastic support.

[0023] As an improvement to the pressure touch device described in this application, the pressure touch device further includes: a flexible circuit board, the flexible circuit board being disposed on the second surface of the printed circuit board, the flexible circuit board including ribbon cables, the ribbon cables of the flexible circuit board being electrically connected to pressure sensors disposed on the first cantilever and the second cantilever respectively; the ribbon cables electrically connected to the pressure sensors disposed on the first cantilever are S-shaped.

[0024] As an improvement of the pressure touch device described in this application, the flexible circuit board is provided with ribbon cable pins; the second cantilever and the ribbon cable pins are located on the same side of the elastic bracket; and the elastic bracket is provided with a clearance groove for avoiding the ribbon cable pins, the clearance groove being provided on the edge of the elastic bracket on the side where the second cantilever is provided.

[0025] As an improvement to the pressure touch device described in this application, the elastic bracket has one side edge of the fixed end of the second cantilever recessed inward to form the clearance groove; and the free end of the second cantilever protrudes from the opening of the clearance groove.

[0026] As an improvement to the pressure touch device described in this application, a portion of the elastic bracket bends toward the side where the fixed end of the second cantilever is provided and protrudes from the elastic bracket to form the clearance groove; and the free end of the second cantilever is flush with the opening of the clearance groove.

[0027] A third aspect of this application provides an electronic device, comprising: a housing having a support structure disposed thereon; a touch panel as described in the first aspect, wherein an elastic bracket for a pressure sensor assembly of the touch panel is mounted on the support structure; or, a pressure touch device as described in the second aspect, wherein an elastic bracket for a pressure sensor assembly of the pressure touch device is mounted on the support structure.

[0028] The electronic device provided in the third aspect of this application, since it includes the pressure sensor assembly described in the first or second aspect, also has the same advantages as the pressure sensor assembly described in the first or second aspect.

[0029] In addition to the technical problems solved by this application, the technical features constituting the technical solutions, and the beneficial effects brought about by the technical features of these technical solutions as described above, other technical problems that can be solved by the touch panel, pressure touch device, and electronic device provided by this application, other technical features contained in the technical solutions, and the beneficial effects brought about by these technical features will be further explained in detail in the specific embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0030] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments of this application or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only a part of the embodiments of this application. These drawings and text descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept of this application in any way, but to illustrate the concept of this application to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0031] Figure 1 An exploded view of a pressure sensor assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 2 A top view of a pressure sensor assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 3 A side view of a pressure sensor assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 4 A bottom view of a pressure sensor assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 5 A top view of a pressure sensor assembly provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 6 An exploded view of the touchpad provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0037] Figure 7 An exploded view of the pressure-sensitive touch device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0038] Figure 8 A bottom view of the pressure-sensitive touch device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0039] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0040] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0041] 1000: Pressure sensor assembly; 2000: Touchpad; 3000: Electronic device;

[0042] 100: Elastic bracket; 101: First surface; 102: Second surface; 103: Fixed support surface; 111: Clearance groove; 1111: Connecting section; 1112: Bending section; 1113: Body section; 112: Fixing part; 1121: Threaded fixing hole; 1122: Mounting hole; 113: Fixture positioning hole; 120: First cantilever; 130: Second cantilever;

[0043] 200: Pressure sensor;

[0044] 300: Flexible circuit board; 310: Ribbon cable pin; 320: Ribbon cable; 330: Clearance hole; 340: Notch;

[0045] 400: Flexible connector;

[0046] 510: First adhesive layer; 520: Second adhesive layer; 530: Third adhesive layer;

[0047] 600: Printed circuit board; 601: First board surface; 602: Second board surface; 610: Connection terminal; 620: Actuator; 630: Touch controller; 700: Touch panel; 800: Reinforcing plate; 810: Clearance opening; 820: Clearance notch. Detailed Implementation

[0048] Pressure-sensitive touchpads eliminate physical buttons, simulating mouse button operation through pressure detection and vibration feedback. A pressure-sensitive touchpad typically includes a touch panel and a pressure detection component located on the bottom surface of the touch panel. During their research, the inventors discovered that applying the same force to the center and edge areas of the touchpad resulted in differences in the pressure detected by the pressure detection component, affecting the pressure detection accuracy of the touchpad.

[0049] Further research into the structure of pressure touchpads revealed that current pressure touchpads typically have pressure detection components at the four corners of a rectangular touch panel. These components detect pressure, and silicone pads are usually placed near them, connecting to the touch panel to allow the deformed pressure detection components to return to their initial shape and providing elastic support. However, the lack of support in the center of the touch panel causes it to collapse downwards. When force is applied to the center, the deformation differs between the center and the areas with pressure detection components at the corners, leading to errors in pressure detection and affecting the accuracy of the pressure touchpad.

[0050] The inventors first thought of increasing the rigidity of the touch panel. When assembling the pressure touch panel, they used thermosetting adhesive in the middle area of ​​the touch panel to increase the rigidity of the panel. However, in actual production, the addition of the thermosetting adhesive process resulted in low production efficiency.

[0051] Then, the inventors changed their approach, considering how to solve the problem of low pressure detection accuracy of the touchpad without changing the touchpad assembly process and ensuring production efficiency. In view of this, this application provides a touchpad whose pressure sensor assembly has at least three pressure sensors, two of which are arranged at the ends of the touch panel, and at least one pressure sensor is arranged in the middle area of ​​the touch panel. Placing the pressure sensor in the middle area increases the pressure detection points, improving the pressure detection accuracy of the pressure touchpad. Furthermore, the elastic element at the edge of the pressure sensor in the middle area can support the touch panel without adding a new assembly process, thus ensuring production efficiency.

[0052] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0053] Example 1

[0054] Figure 6An exploded view of the touchpad provided in an embodiment of this application. (In conjunction with...) Figure 6 This application provides a touch panel, which includes a printed circuit board 600, a pressure sensor assembly 1000, and a touch controller 630.

[0055] The printed circuit board 600 of this application embodiment has a first board surface 601 and a second board surface 602 opposite to each other. The first board surface 601 of the printed circuit board 600 is provided with touch sensing electrodes. The touch sensing electrodes are used to sense the touch position of the finger when the finger touches or presses the touch panel and output the corresponding touch sensing signal. The second board surface of the printed circuit board 600 is equipped with a touch controller 630. The touch controller 630 is used to determine the touch position of the finger on the touch panel 700 according to the touch sensing signal.

[0056] The pressure sensor assembly 1000 is used to deform under the pressure applied when a finger presses the touchpad, and the pressure sensor assembly 1000 outputs a corresponding pressure sensing signal.

[0057] The touch controller 630 is mounted and fixed on the second surface 602 of the printed circuit board 600 and is electrically connected to the touch sensing electrode and pressure sensor assembly 1000. It is used to receive touch sensing signals from the touch sensing electrode and pressure sensing signals from the pressure sensor assembly 1000, and to determine the touch position of the finger on the touchpad and the pressure applied by the finger based on the touch sensing signals and pressure sensing signals.

[0058] Figure 1 An exploded view of a pressure sensor assembly provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 A top view of a pressure sensor assembly provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 A side view of a pressure sensor assembly provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a bottom view of a pressure sensor assembly provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0059] Combination Figures 1 to 4 The pressure sensor assembly of this application embodiment includes an elastic bracket 100 and at least three pressure sensors 200. The elastic bracket 100 is used to support the pressure sensors 200 and, when the touchpad is subjected to pressure, causes the pressure sensors 200 to undergo elastic deformation together, thereby enabling the pressure sensors 200 to detect the pressure on the touchpad.

[0060] The pressure sensor 200 deforms under the pressure applied when a finger presses the touchpad. The pressure sensor 200 outputs a corresponding pressure sensing signal and is electrically connected to the touch controller 630 to transmit the pressure sensing signal to the touch controller 630. The pressure sensor 200 can be of various types, such as a resistance strain gauge pressure sensor, a semiconductor strain gauge pressure sensor, an inductive pressure sensor, or a capacitive pressure sensor. Optionally, the pressure sensor 200 is a piezoresistive pressure sensor, which has a simple structure and high sensitivity. The piezoresistive pressure sensor includes four variable resistors interconnected to form a Wheatstone bridge detection circuit. This detection circuit converts the resistance change into a corresponding electrical signal (voltage or current) output, thus completing the process of converting pressure into an electrical signal.

[0061] The elastic support 100 of this embodiment has at least three cantilever arms, including two first cantilever arms 120 and at least one second cantilever arm 130. The two first cantilever arms 120 are disposed at two opposite ends of the elastic support 100, and the second cantilever arm 130 is disposed in the middle section of the elastic support 100. The phrase "the second cantilever arm 130 is disposed in the middle section of the elastic support 100" means that the second cantilever arm 130 can be disposed at the center of the elastic support 100, or its position can be offset from the center of the elastic support 100.

[0062] In some embodiments, the elastic support 100 includes three cantilever arms. Two first cantilever arms 120 are provided, respectively located at opposite ends of the elastic support 100. One second cantilever arm 130 is provided, symmetrically arranged with respect to the center of the elastic support 100. In other words, the fixed end of the second cantilever arm 130 is located at the center of the elastic support 100. This arrangement ensures a supporting structure in the middle of the touch panel while providing a pressure sensor 200 on the second cantilever arm 130 at the center of the elastic support 100, facilitating pressure value calculation and simplifying the pressure value calculation logic.

[0063] Of course, the placement of the three cantilever arms is not limited to this. For example, the three cantilever arms include a first cantilever arm 120 located at the end of the elastic support 100 and two second cantilever arms 130 located in the middle section of the elastic support 100.

[0064] It is understood that the number of cantilever arms included in the elastic support 100 may be greater than three. For example, the elastic support 100 includes four cantilever arms, including two first cantilever arms 120 disposed at opposite ends of the elastic support 100, and two second cantilever arms 130 disposed in the middle section of the elastic support 100.

[0065] Each cantilever in this embodiment has a fixed end and a free end. The fixed end of each cantilever is fixed relative to the touchpad when the elastic bracket 100 is fixed to the electronic device. The end of each cantilever away from the elastic bracket 100 is suspended to form the free end of the cantilever. Each free end of the cantilever is provided with a pressure sensor 200, which can generate elastic deformation when the touchpad is subjected to force.

[0066] The free ends of each cantilever form elastic support points for the touchpad. For example, an elastic connector 400 is bonded to the free end of the cantilever. Specifically, the elastic connector 400 is bonded to the free end of the cantilever and is used to elastically support the touchpad. The elastic connector 400 can be a flexible connector such as a silicone pad.

[0067] Each pressure sensor 200 is correspondingly installed on the free end of each cantilever to detect the pressure acting on the cantilever. The pressure sensors 200 are configured corresponding to the cantilever, with one pressure sensor 200 installed on each cantilever. Figure 2 The pressure sensor 200 is bonded to the free end of the cantilever via the first adhesive layer 510, the elastic connector 400 is close to the free end of the cantilever, and the pressure sensor 200 is close to the fixed end of the cantilever.

[0068] When the touchpad is subjected to pressure, the pressure is transmitted to the cantilever via the elastic connector 400 at the free end of the cantilever. The cantilever undergoes elastic deformation, causing the pressure sensor 200 attached to the cantilever to deform and detect the pressure. The touch controller 630 on the printed circuit board 600 calculates the pressure detected by each pressure sensor 200 to determine the pressure value. When the pressure value reaches a certain threshold, it is reported to the electronic device system to enable the left and right mouse button functions. After the pressure is removed, the cantilever returns to its initial unloaded state under the action of the elastic connector 400.

[0069] In this embodiment, there is an angle between the extending direction of the free end of the first cantilever 120 and the extending direction of the free end of the second cantilever 130. This can be understood as the two cantilever directions not being parallel. For example, the angle between the extending direction of the free end of the first cantilever 120 and the extending direction of the second cantilever 130 is 90 degrees. That is, the extending direction of the free end of the first cantilever 120 is perpendicular to the extending direction of the free end of the second cantilever 130. Figure 1 and Figure 2The free end of the first cantilever 120 extends along the X-axis, and the free end of the second cantilever 130 extends along the Y-axis. This arrangement allows the pressure sensed by each pressure sensor 200 to be more uniform, facilitating the calculation of the pressure detected by each pressure sensor 200 by the touch controller 630. Of course, the angle between the extending directions of the free ends of the first cantilever 120 and the second cantilever 130 can also be other angles, such as 45 degrees. This arrangement in this embodiment expands the area of ​​the pressure sensor 200 covering the pressure sensor assembly, thereby increasing the pressure-sensitive detection range and ultimately improving pressure detection accuracy.

[0070] In some possible embodiments, the elastic support 100 is elongated, and the free end of the first cantilever 120 extends in the same direction as the length of the elastic support 100. Figure 1 and attached Figure 2 In the direction shown, the free end of the first cantilever 120 and the length of the elastic support 100 both extend along the X-axis; the extension direction of the free end of the second cantilever 130 is perpendicular to the length extension direction of the elastic support 100, and the angle between the extension direction of the free end of the second cantilever 130 and the extension direction of the free end of the first cantilever 120 is 90 degrees. This arrangement not only achieves an angle between the extension directions of the first cantilever 120 and the extension directions of the second cantilever 130, but also facilitates the setting of the first cantilever 120 and the processing of the elastic support 100.

[0071] Of course, this is not a limitation on the extension direction of the free ends of the first cantilever 120 and the second cantilever 130. For example, the angle between the extension direction of the first cantilever 120 and the length extension direction of the elastic support 100 is 45 degrees, and the angle between the extension direction of the second cantilever 130 and the length extension direction of the elastic support 100 is 135 degrees, so that the angle between the extension direction of the second cantilever 130 and the extension direction of the first cantilever 120 is 90 degrees.

[0072] Therefore, in this embodiment of the touchpad, the pressure sensor assembly 1000 is used to detect the pressure applied to the touchpad. The pressure sensor assembly 1000 includes an elastic support 100 and at least three pressure sensors 200. The elastic support 100 has at least three cantilever arms, including two first cantilever arms 120 and at least one second cantilever arm 130. The two first cantilever arms 120 are disposed at opposite ends of the elastic support 100, and the second cantilever arm 130 is disposed in the middle section of the elastic support 100. Each cantilever arm has a pressure sensor 200 disposed at its free end. Thus, not only can the first cantilever arms 120 at the ends of the elastic support 100 elastically support the touchpad, but the second cantilever arms 130 in the middle section of the elastic support 100 can also elastically support the touchpad, thereby supporting the middle area of ​​the touchpad. This provides the touchpad with at least three support positions, preventing the middle area of ​​the touchpad from sinking and affecting detection accuracy, thus improving detection accuracy. Each pressure sensor 200 is disposed on each cantilever arm to detect the pressure applied to the cantilever arm, thereby determining the pressure applied to the touchpad. The pressure sensor assembly in this embodiment increases the number of pressure sensors 200 and the number of pressure detection positions, thereby improving the pressure detection accuracy of the touchpad. Compared to setting up an additional structural support for the touchpad, this embodiment does not add any new assembly steps, thus ensuring production efficiency without incurring additional costs.

[0073] When the touchpad in this embodiment is mounted on an electronic device, the elastic bracket 100 is fixed to the electronic device, and each cantilever is suspended relative to the electronic device.

[0074] Among some of the possible implementations, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 The elastic support 100 has a first surface 101 and a second surface 102 disposed opposite to each other. The pressure sensor 200 and the elastic connector 400 are located on the cantilever of the first surface 101. At least a portion of the second surface 102 forms a fixed support surface 103 for supporting the pressure sensor assembly. Figure 4 In the diagram, the fixed support surface 103 is illustrated with a grid filling, while the unfilled portion represents the free end of the cantilever. The fixed support surface 103 can be connected to a support structure on the electronic device. For example, the fixed support surface 103 can be connected to the support structure on the electronic device using adhesive, double-sided tape, snap-fit, screws, or other methods to fix and support the pressure sensor assembly. This design provides a larger mounting surface for the elastic bracket 100 when fixed to the electronic device and allows for more flexible fixing methods.

[0075] Continue to refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2In this embodiment, the elastic bracket 100 is provided with a fixing part 112, and a threaded fixing hole 1121 is provided on the fixing part 112. The threaded fixing hole 1121 is used for fixed connection with the support structure of the electronic device, thereby installing the pressure sensor assembly 1000 inside the electronic device. A first cantilever 120 is formed between the fixing part 112 and the two opposite ends of the elastic bracket 100.

[0076] The fixing part 112 can be a boss, column, or the like that protruding from the first surface 101 of the elastic bracket 100. In this embodiment, the elastic bracket 100 is a flat plate structure, and the fixing part 112 is a nut installed on the elastic bracket 100. This arrangement helps to increase the length of the threaded fixing hole 1121, thereby improving the reliability and stability of the pressure sensor assembly 1000 installation.

[0077] For example, the elastic bracket 100 is provided with a mounting hole 1122, which is a through hole. A nut passes through the mounting hole 1122. The nut can be riveted into the mounting hole 1122, or it can be welded into the mounting hole 1122, for example, by laser spot welding. This design facilitates the processing of the plate-shaped elastic bracket 100 and allows for the provision of a longer threaded fixing hole 1121 on the plate-shaped elastic bracket 100, thereby improving the stability of the pressure sensor assembly 1000 during installation.

[0078] The fixing part 112 is used to fix the elastic bracket 100 to the electronic device, and the fixing part 112 is located within the fixing support surface 103. In this embodiment, the elastic bracket 100 is provided with at least one fixing part 112 near each cantilever, which not only fixes the elastic bracket 100 to the electronic device, but also allows each cantilever to elastically deform relative to the touch panel, so that the pressure sensor 200 on the cantilever can detect the pressure on the touch panel.

[0079] Of course, the elastic bracket 100 can be provided with multiple fixing parts 112 near each cantilever, which is beneficial for fixing the fixed end of the cantilever and deforming the free end of the cantilever, and for improving the stability of the pressure sensor assembly 1000 when installed on the electronic device.

[0080] The elastic support 100 of this embodiment is provided with a fixture positioning hole 113, which is used to cooperate with the fixture during the assembly of the pressure sensor assembly 1000 to improve the assembly accuracy of the pressure sensor assembly 1000. The fixture positioning hole 113 can be a circular hole, which can be located on the side of the elastic support 100 away from the first cantilever 120.

[0081] Continue to refer to Figures 1 to 4The touchpad in this embodiment further includes a flexible circuit board 300, which is disposed on the second surface 602 of the printed circuit board 600. The flexible circuit board 300 includes ribbon cables 320, which are electrically connected to all pressure sensors 200 disposed on the first cantilever 120 and the second cantilever 130. By using the flexible circuit board 300 to electrically connect all pressure sensors 200, this embodiment facilitates the transmission and bonding of pressure sensor signals. The flexible circuit board 300 is also easily adaptable to the elastic deformation of the elastic support 100 and is not easily damaged.

[0082] Optionally, the flexible circuit board 300 has clearance holes 330 at both ends to avoid the fixing part 112 and the fixture positioning hole 113. The clearance hole 330 can be a rectangular hole, a circular hole, an elliptical hole, etc., and is not limited here. The flexible circuit board 300 also has a notch 340, which is used to avoid the fixing part 112 located near the second cantilever 130.

[0083] In this embodiment, the ribbon cable 320 that electrically connects the flexible circuit board 300 and the pressure sensor 200 on the first cantilever 120 is S-shaped. This arrangement allows for flexible adjustment of the bonding position of the pressure sensor 200, which helps to improve the deformation of the pressure sensor 200 and the accuracy of the bonding position.

[0084] Of course, the flexible circuit board 300 may include a substrate and metal traces disposed in the substrate, the metal traces being electrically connected to the pressure sensor 200.

[0085] The flexible circuit board 300 in this embodiment is provided with ribbon cable pins 310, which are electrically connected to the touch controller 630 to transmit the pressure detected by all pressure sensors 200 to the touch controller 630. The touch controller 630 calculates the pressure value based on the pressure detected by each pressure sensor 200 and reports it to the electronic device system when the pressure value reaches a certain threshold, thus enabling the left and right mouse button functions. The second cantilever 130 and the ribbon cable pins 310 are located on the same side of the elastic support 100. This arrangement helps to improve the compactness of the touchpad structure. A connection terminal 610 is provided on the second surface 602 of the printed circuit board 600, which is electrically connected to the ribbon cable pins 310, thereby realizing the electrical connection between the printed circuit board 600 and the flexible circuit board 300.

[0086] The elastic bracket 100 of this embodiment is provided with a clearance groove 111 for avoiding the ribbon cable pin 310. The clearance groove 111 is provided on the side edge of the elastic bracket 100 where the second cantilever 130 is located. Figure 2 and Figure 4In the direction shown in the figure, the elastic support 100 has opposing first and second sides, both extending along the X-axis and spaced apart from each other along the Y-axis. A second cantilever 130 is disposed on the first side of the elastic support 100, and correspondingly, a clearance groove 111 is disposed on the edge of the first side. This embodiment of the application, by providing the clearance groove 111 to avoid the ribbon cable pin 310, facilitates the improvement of the layout utilization rate of the flexible circuit board 300; compared to the situation where the ribbon cable pin 310 needs to be extended outwards without the clearance groove 111, this arrangement improves the compactness of the pressure sensor assembly structure.

[0087] In order to ensure that the deformation of the second cantilever 130 is uniform under stress on both sides, in this embodiment of the application, a clearance groove 111 is provided on both sides of the second cantilever 130, and the clearance groove 111 on both sides of the second cantilever 130 has the same size.

[0088] In one possible configuration of the clearance groove 111, combined with Figure 2 The elastic bracket 100 has one side edge of the fixed end of the second cantilever 130 recessed inward to form an avoidance groove 111.

[0089] The free end of the second cantilever 130 protrudes from the opening of the clearance groove 111. This design allows the elastic support point formed by the free end of the second cantilever 130 to protrude from the opening of the clearance groove 111, thus extending towards the center of the touchpad from the edge to provide elastic support, thereby improving the support effect on the touchpad. Moreover, the elastic support point formed by the free end of the second cantilever 130 is not on the same straight line as the elastic support points formed by the two first cantilever 120s, forming a triangular support structure, which further enhances the support effect on the touchpad.

[0090] In another possible configuration of the clearance groove 111, a portion of the elastic support 100 bends toward the side where the second cantilever 130 is fixed and protrudes beyond the other portion of the elastic support 100 to form the clearance groove 111. See details. Figure 5 , Figure 5This is a top view of a pressure sensor assembly provided in another embodiment of this application. The elastic support 100 includes a body segment 1113, a bent segment 1112, and a connecting segment 1111. The body segment 1113 and the bent segment 1112 are each provided in two sections. The first ends of the two body segments 1113 respectively form a first cantilever 120. The second ends of the body segments 1113 are bent towards the side opposite to the free end of the second cantilever 130 to form the bent segment 1112. The two ends of the connecting segment 1111 are connected to the two bent segments 1112 respectively. The connecting segment 1111 can be parallel to the body segment 1113, and the bent segments 1112 can be perpendicular to both the connecting segment 1111 and the body segment 1113. Thus, the two bent segments 1112 and the connecting segment 1111 enclose and form a clearance groove 111 opening towards the side where the free end of the second cantilever 130 is located. At this time, the second cantilever 130 is connected to the connecting section 1111. Optionally, the second cantilever 130 is located in the middle of the connecting section 1111.

[0091] Continue to refer to Figure 5 The free end of the second cantilever 130 is flush with the opening of the clearance groove 111. With this arrangement, the ribbon cable pin 310 is located between the second cantilever 130 and the bent section 1112, completely within the clearance groove 111, which helps to further improve the layout utilization of the flexible circuit board 300. Furthermore, the elastic support point formed by the free end of the second cantilever 130 is approximately on a straight line with the elastic support points formed by the free ends of the two first cantilever 120s, which helps to improve the balance of the touchpad support.

[0092] Specific combination Figure 2 The elastic bracket 100 has an inwardly recessed edge on one side of the fixed end of the second cantilever 130 to form a clearance groove 111. The dimension D1 of the elastic bracket 100 corresponding to the clearance groove 111 along the extension direction of the free end of the second cantilever 130 (corresponding to the Y-axis direction in the figure) is greater than or equal to 3 mm. For example, the dimension D1 of the clearance groove 111 along the extension direction of the free end of the second cantilever 130 (corresponding to the Y-axis direction in the figure) can be 5 mm. The dimension D2 of the elastic bracket 100 at other locations along the extension direction of the free end of the second cantilever 130 (corresponding to the Y-axis direction in the figure) ranges from 8 to 12 mm.

[0093] Combination Figure 5The elastic support 100 includes a body segment 1113, a bending segment 1112, and a connecting segment 1111. The two bending segments 1112 and the connecting segment 1111 enclose and form a clearance groove 111. The connecting segment 1111 forming the clearance groove 111 has a dimension D3 greater than or equal to 3mm along the free end extension direction of the second cantilever 130 (corresponding to the Y-axis direction in the figure). The bending segment 1112 forming the clearance groove 111 has a dimension D4 greater than or equal to 3mm along the first direction (corresponding to the X-axis direction in the figure). The first direction is perpendicular to the free end extension direction of the second cantilever 130.

[0094] The elastic support 100 of this application embodiment has a certain degree of elasticity to ensure that it returns to its initial state after being subjected to force. Optionally, the yield strength of the elastic support 100 is greater than or equal to 150 MPa.

[0095] For example, the flexible support 100 is a stainless steel support or an aluminum support, which is low in cost.

[0096] When the elastic support 100 is a stainless steel support, the thickness of the elastic support 100 is greater than or equal to 0.4mm.

[0097] When the elastic support 100 is made of aluminum, its thickness is greater than or equal to 0.8 mm. Compared to stainless steel supports, aluminum supports have lower structural strength, so they are typically thicker to ensure structural strength.

[0098] Among them, combined Figure 1 The thickness H of the elastic support 100 is the dimension of the elastic support 100 along the second direction (corresponding to the Z-axis direction in the figure), wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the first surface 101 of the elastic support 100.

[0099] This design ensures stable structural strength while maintaining a certain degree of elasticity in the elastic support 100.

[0100] Combination Figure 6 The second surface 602 of the printed circuit board 600 has two opposing long sides; for example, the printed circuit board 600 is a rectangular board. At least two pressure sensor assemblies 1000 are provided, extending along the long side direction (corresponding to the X-axis direction in the figure) of the second surface 602 of the printed circuit board 600, with each pressure sensor assembly located close to one of the two long side edges of the second surface 602 of the printed circuit board 600. By providing at least two pressure sensor assemblies 1000, this embodiment of the application enables the touchpad to have at least six pressure sensors 200, thereby dispersing the pressing pressure on the touchpad and increasing the structural stability of the touchpad.

[0101] In this embodiment of the application, when the printed circuit board 600 is a rectangular board, the pressure sensors 200 of the pressure sensor assembly 1000 are distributed at the four vertices of the printed circuit board 600 and the center of the long side, which can improve the uniformity of pressure detection.

[0102] Optional, combined Figure 6 The touch panel also includes a reinforcing plate 800, which is fixedly connected to the second surface 602 of the printed circuit board 600. For example, the reinforcing plate 800 is bonded to the second surface 602 via a third adhesive layer 530. In this embodiment, the reinforcing plate 800 is provided to increase the rigidity of the touch panel 100 and reduce deformation and collapse when the user presses the touch panel 700.

[0103] Optionally, the reinforcing plate 800 can be made of aluminum or steel.

[0104] When the touchpad has two pressure sensor assemblies 1000, the reinforcing plate 800 is positioned between the two pressure sensor assemblies 1000 to avoid obstructing the pressure sensor assemblies 1000.

[0105] The reinforcing plate 800 is provided with a clearance notch 820 to avoid the connection between the connection terminal 610 and the ribbon cable pin 310.

[0106] The reinforcing plate 800 is also provided with a clearance opening 810, which can be a rectangular opening, a circular opening, or any other shape, to avoid electronic devices on the printed circuit board 600, such as a touch controller 630.

[0107] For example, an actuator 620 is disposed on a printed circuit board 600, and a touch controller 630 is mounted on the second surface 602 of the printed circuit board 600 and electrically connected to the touch sensing electrode and the pressure sensor 200 through the connection lines of the printed circuit board 600. The touch controller 630 is used to provide a drive signal to the touch sensing electrode to drive capacitive touch detection, and to receive the touch sensing signal and pressure sensing signal output by the touch sensing electrode and the pressure sensor 200 when a finger presses on the touchpad, and to determine the finger position information and the magnitude of the pressure applied by the finger based on the aforementioned touch sensing signal and pressure sensing signal. Furthermore, the touch controller 630 can also be electrically connected to the actuator 620 and is further used to drive the actuator 620 to provide vibration feedback in response to the detected pressure magnitude. In a specific embodiment, the touch controller 630 can be a touch chip integrating pressure detection and touch position detection, or it can include two separately disposed pressure detection chips for detecting pressure and touch position chips for detecting touch position. The actuator 620 can be a linear motor.

[0108] Example 2

[0109] Figure 7 An exploded view of the pressure-sensitive touch device provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 8 A bottom view of the pressure-sensitive touch device provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0110] Combining 7 and Figure 8 This application also provides a pressure-sensitive touch device, including a touch panel 700, a printed circuit board 600, and a pressure sensor assembly 1000. The touch panel 700 serves as the cover of the pressure-sensitive touch device, providing an input interface for finger touch or pressing. The touch panel 700 can also serve as a decorative panel, and can be made of glass or polyester film, etc. The touch panel 700 is bonded to the printed circuit board 600; for example, the touch panel 700 is bonded to the first surface 601 of the printed circuit board 600 via a second adhesive layer 520.

[0111] The pressure touch device provided in Embodiment 2 of this application differs from the touch panel provided in Embodiment 1 above in that the pressure touch device provided in Embodiment 2 of this application is further provided with a touch panel 700. Other structures can be referred to Embodiment 1, and will not be described in detail here.

[0112] The pressure touch device provided in this application includes the pressure sensor assembly 1000 in the first embodiment above. Therefore, the pressure touch device in this application also has the same advantages as the touch panel in the first embodiment, which will not be repeated here.

[0113] Example 3

[0114] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0115] Combination Figure 9 This application also provides an electronic device 3000, which includes: a housing 3001 and a touch panel 2000 as described in Embodiment 1 above. A support structure is provided on the housing 3001; the elastic bracket 100 of the pressure sensor assembly 100 of the touch panel 2000 is mounted on the support structure. The support structure can be a support platform, support column, etc., provided on the housing 3001. The structure, function, and effect of the touch panel 2000 in this embodiment are the same as those in Embodiment 1 above, and specific details can be found in Embodiment 1 above, which will not be repeated here.

[0116] Alternatively, the electronic device 3000 includes a housing 3001 and the pressure touch device described in Embodiment 2 above. A support structure is provided on the housing 3001; the elastic bracket 100 of the pressure sensor assembly 1000 of the pressure touch device is mounted on the support structure. The structure, function, and effect of the pressure touch device in this embodiment are the same as those in Embodiment 2 above, and specific details can be found in Embodiment 2 above, which will not be repeated here.

[0117] The technical solutions of this application can be applied to various electronic devices, such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, gaming devices and other portable or mobile computing devices, as well as electronic databases, automobiles, bank ATMs and other electronic devices. However, this application does not limit these applications.

[0118] In the above description, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0119] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A touchpad, characterized in that, include: Printed circuit boards, pressure sensor assemblies, and touch controllers; The printed circuit board has a first board surface and a second board surface opposite to each other. The first board surface of the printed circuit board is provided with touch sensing electrodes for sensing the touch position of the finger when the finger touches or presses the touch panel and outputting a corresponding touch sensing signal. The pressure sensor assembly is disposed on the second surface of the printed circuit board. The pressure sensor assembly includes an elastic bracket and at least three pressure sensors. The elastic bracket has at least three cantilever arms, including two first cantilever arms and at least one second cantilever arm. The two first cantilever arms are respectively disposed at two opposite ends of the elastic bracket, and the second cantilever arm is disposed in the middle section of the elastic bracket. The free end of each cantilever arm is respectively provided with the pressure sensor, which is used to deform under the pressure applied when the finger presses the touchpad, and the pressure sensor outputs a corresponding pressure sensing signal. The touch controller is mounted and fixed on the second surface of the printed circuit board and is electrically connected to the touch sensing electrode and the pressure sensor. It is used to receive touch sensing signals and pressure sensing signals from the touch sensing electrode and the pressure sensor and determine the touch position of the finger on the touch panel and the amount of pressure applied by the finger.

2. The touchpad according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fixed end of the second cantilever is located at the center of the elastic support.

3. The touchpad according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic support is elongated, and the free end of the first cantilever extends in the same direction as the length of the elastic support; and The free end of the second cantilever extends in a direction perpendicular to the length extension direction of the elastic support.

4. The touchpad according to claim 1, characterized in that, The touchpad also includes: A flexible circuit board is disposed on the second surface of the printed circuit board. The flexible circuit board includes ribbon cables, which are electrically connected to pressure sensors disposed on the first cantilever and the second cantilever, respectively. The ribbon cables electrically connected to the pressure sensors disposed on the first cantilever are S-shaped.

5. The touchpad according to claim 4, characterized in that, The flexible circuit board is provided with ribbon cable pins; the second cantilever and the ribbon cable pins are located on the same side of the elastic support; and The elastic bracket is provided with a clearance groove for avoiding the ribbon cable pins, and the clearance groove is provided on the side edge of the elastic bracket where the second cantilever is located.

6. The touchpad according to claim 5, characterized in that, The elastic support has an inwardly recessed edge on one side of the fixed end of the second cantilever to form the clearance groove; and The free end of the second cantilever protrudes from the opening of the avoidance groove.

7. The touchpad according to claim 5, characterized in that, A portion of the elastic support bends away from the fixed end where the second cantilever is located and protrudes from the other portion of the elastic support to form the clearance groove; and The free end of the second cantilever is flush with the opening of the avoidance groove.

8. The touchpad according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that, The elastic bracket forming the avoidance groove has a dimension greater than or equal to 3 mm along the extension direction of the second cantilever.

9. The touchpad according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The yield strength of the elastic support is greater than or equal to 150 MPa; The elastic support is a stainless steel support with a thickness greater than or equal to 0.4 mm, or the elastic support is an aluminum support with a thickness greater than or equal to 0.8 mm.

10. The touchpad according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The second surface of the printed circuit board has two opposing long sides; at least two pressure sensor assemblies are provided, and at least two pressure sensor assemblies extend along the long side direction of the second surface of the printed circuit board, and at least two pressure sensor assemblies are respectively close to the two long side edges of the second surface of the printed circuit board.

11. The touchpad according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The touchpad also includes: A reinforcing plate, which is fixedly connected to the second surface of the printed circuit board; An actuator, which is mounted on a second surface of the printed circuit board and electrically connected to the touch controller, is used to provide vibration feedback in response to the magnitude of pressure applied by the finger.

12. A pressure-sensitive touch device, characterized in that, include: A touch panel provides an input interface for finger touch or pressing; A printed circuit board has a first board surface and a second board surface opposite each other, and the first board surface of the printed circuit board is provided with touch sensing electrodes; A pressure sensor assembly is disposed on the second surface of the printed circuit board. The pressure sensor assembly includes an elastic bracket and at least three pressure sensors. The elastic bracket has at least three cantilever arms, including two first cantilever arms and at least one second cantilever arm. The two first cantilever arms are respectively disposed at two opposite ends of the elastic bracket, and the second cantilever arm is disposed in the middle section of the elastic bracket. Each cantilever arm is provided with a pressure sensor at its free end, which is used to deform under the pressure applied when the finger presses the touch panel, and the pressure sensor outputs a corresponding pressure sensing signal.

13. The pressure-sensitive touch device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The fixed end of the second cantilever is located at the center of the elastic support.

14. The pressure-sensitive touch device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The elastic support is elongated, and the free end of the first cantilever extends in the same direction as the length of the elastic support; and The free end of the second cantilever extends in a direction perpendicular to the length extension direction of the elastic support.

15. The pressure-sensitive touch device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The pressure-sensitive touch device also includes: A flexible circuit board is disposed on the second surface of the printed circuit board. The flexible circuit board includes ribbon cables, which are electrically connected to pressure sensors disposed on the first cantilever and the second cantilever, respectively. The ribbon cables electrically connected to the pressure sensors disposed on the first cantilever are S-shaped.

16. The pressure-sensitive touch device according to claim 15, characterized in that, The flexible circuit board is provided with ribbon cable pins; the second cantilever and the ribbon cable pins are located on the same side of the elastic support; and The elastic bracket is provided with a clearance groove for avoiding the ribbon cable pins, and the clearance groove is provided on the side edge of the elastic bracket where the second cantilever is located.

17. The pressure-sensitive touch device according to claim 16, characterized in that, The elastic support has an inwardly recessed edge on one side of the fixed end of the second cantilever to form the clearance groove; and The free end of the second cantilever protrudes from the opening of the avoidance groove.

18. The pressure-sensitive touch device according to claim 16, characterized in that, Part of the elastic bracket bends toward the fixed end where the second cantilever is located and protrudes from the elastic bracket to form the clearance groove; and The free end of the second cantilever is flush with the opening of the avoidance groove.

19. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: A housing, on which a supporting structure is provided; The touchpad according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the elastic bracket of the pressure sensor assembly of the touchpad is mounted on the support structure; or, the pressure touch device according to any one of claims 12 to 18, wherein the elastic bracket of the pressure sensor assembly of the pressure touch device is mounted on the support structure.

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