A pressure sensing module, a touch panel and an electronic device

Abstract

The application discloses a pressure sensing module, a touch panel and an electronic device, and solves the technical problem of complex structure in the prior art. The pressure sensing module comprises a key cap, a deformation transmission assembly and a pressure sensing flexible circuit board. The deformation transmission assembly comprises a connecting piece and at least two supporting pieces, each supporting piece is arranged at intervals along the length direction of the connecting piece, and one end of each supporting piece, which is away from the connecting piece, is connected with the key cap. The pressure sensing flexible circuit board is connected with one side of the connecting piece, which is away from the supporting pieces. When the key cap is pressed, the connecting piece is deformed and triggers the deformation of the pressure sensing flexible circuit board. The pressure sensing module disclosed by the application simplifies the structure of the deformation transmission assembly, on the one hand, reduces the manufacturing cost, and on the other hand, can make the small pressure received by the key cap be more effectively transmitted to the connecting piece, and make the connecting piece more easily deformed, so as to trigger the pressure sensing flexible circuit board, and greatly improve the pressure sensing sensitivity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of pressure-sensitive technology, specifically relating to a pressure-sensitive module, a touch panel, and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] In electronic devices, input devices are key components for user interaction. Traditional button input methods, such as mechanical buttons, while intuitive, suffer from problems such as complex structure, easy wear and tear, and limited lifespan. With technological advancements, pressure-sensitive input technology has emerged, achieving input functionality by detecting pressure changes and offering advantages such as simple structure and durability. However, existing pressure-sensitive input devices still have shortcomings in terms of the accuracy, sensitivity, and structural stability of pressure transmission, making it difficult to meet the growing demand for high-performance input. Utility Model Content

[0003] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application discloses a pressure-sensitive module, a touch panel, and an electronic device.

[0004] The technical solution adopted to achieve the purpose of this application is as follows: In the first aspect of this application, this utility model discloses a pressure-sensitive module, comprising: keycap; A deformation transmission assembly includes a connector and at least two support members, each support member being spaced apart along the length direction of the connector, and the end of each support member facing away from the connector being connected to the keycap; and A pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board is connected to the side of the connector opposite to the support member; When the keycap is pressed, the connector deforms and triggers the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board to deform as well.

[0005] In some embodiments, two supports are provided, and the two ends of the keycap are respectively connected to the two supports.

[0006] In some embodiments, the contact area between the support member and the connecting end of the connector is smaller than the contact area between the support member and the keycap connecting end.

[0007] In some embodiments, the support member includes a support bar and a support plate, the support bar being connected to the connector, the support plate being connected to the end of the support bar opposite to the connector, the support plate being connected to the keycap, and the support plate protruding from the surface of the support bar in a direction opposite to the other support bar.

[0008] In some embodiments, the end face of the support bar that connects to the connector is spaced apart on the connector.

[0009] In some embodiments, the distance by which the support plate protrudes from the support strip is less than or equal to the distance by which the end face of the corresponding portion of the connector protrudes from the support strip along its length.

[0010] In some embodiments, the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board is provided with a pressure-sensitive module, which includes a plurality of spaced piezoresistive inks, with conductive adhesive disposed between each piezoresistive ink. The projections of the keycap, the connector, and the pressure-sensitive module overlap. When the connector deforms, it squeezes the piezoresistive inks to cause the piezoresistive inks to deform.

[0011] In some embodiments, a support block is provided on the side of the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board away from the deformation transmission component. The support block is located in the middle of the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board, and the pressure-sensitive modules are respectively provided on both sides of the support block.

[0012] The technical solution adopted to achieve the purpose of this application is as follows: In the second aspect of this application, this utility model also discloses a touch panel, which includes a button and the pressure-sensitive module described in the first aspect above. The button is located on the side of the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board away from the deformation transmission component, and the button is touched when the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board is triggered.

[0013] The technical solution adopted to achieve the purpose of this application is as follows: In the third aspect of this application, this utility model also discloses an electronic device, which includes the touch panel described in the second aspect above.

[0014] As can be seen from the above technical solution, the pressure-sensitive module disclosed in this application includes a keycap, a deformation transmission component, and a pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board. The deformation transmission component includes a connector and at least two support members, each of which is spaced apart along the length of the connector. The end of each support member facing away from the connector is connected to the keycap. The pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board is connected to the side of the connector facing away from the support members. When the keycap is pressed, the connector deforms, triggering the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board to deform as well.

[0015] The pressure-sensitive module disclosed in this application simplifies the structure of the deformation transmission component, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and enabling more effective transmission of minute pressure applied to the keycap to the connector. This facilitates deformation of the connector, triggering the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board and significantly improving pressure sensitivity. When the keycap is pressed, the keycap causes a change in the shape of the connector, which in turn causes deformation of the pressure-sensitive ink within the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board, generating a signal and achieving pressure sensing. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To enable those skilled in the art to more clearly understand this application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a pressure-sensitive module in one or more embodiments of this application; Figure 2 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the bottom structure of the medium pressure sensing module; Figure 3 for Figure 2 Top view of the medium pressure sensing module Figure 4 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the deformation transfer component.

[0018] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 100, keycap; 200, deformation transmission component; 210, connector; 220, support component; 221, support strip; 222, support plate; 300, pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board; 310, pressure-sensitive module; 311, piezoresistive ink; 312, conductive adhesive; 320, support block. Detailed Implementation

[0019] To enable those skilled in the art to more clearly understand this application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0020] Furthermore, reference numerals and / or reference letters may be repeated in different examples in this application. Such repetition is for simplification and clarity purposes and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or settings discussed. In addition, this application provides examples of various specific processes and materials; however, those skilled in the art will recognize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0021] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in these embodiments of the present invention can be combined with each other.

[0022] This utility model discloses a pressure-sensitive module, a touch panel, and an electronic device, which can solve the technical problem of the complex structure of existing pressure-sensitive modules.

[0023] The technical solution of this application will be described in detail below through specific embodiments: See Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 In a first aspect embodiment of this application, a pressure-sensitive module is disclosed, comprising a keycap 100, a deformation transmission component 200, and a pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300. The deformation transmission component 200 includes a connector 210 and at least two support members 220, each support member 220 being spaced apart along the length of the connector 210. One end of each support member 220 facing away from the connector 210 is connected to the keycap 100. The pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300 is connected to the side of the connector 210 facing away from the support members 220. When the keycap 100 is pressed, the connector 210 deforms, triggering a deformation in the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300.

[0024] The pressure-sensitive module disclosed in this embodiment simplifies the structure of the deformation transmission component 200, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and enabling the small pressure on the keycap 100 to be transmitted more effectively to the connector 210. This also makes the connector 210 more prone to deformation, thereby triggering the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300 and greatly improving pressure sensitivity.

[0025] Among them, the pressure-sensitive flexible printed circuit board 300 (Flexible Printed Circuit, or FPC for short), also known as pressure-sensitive functional FPC, is a flexible circuit board that can generate changes in resistance or other electrical signals when subjected to pressure. This circuit board combines pressure-sensitive technology with the flexibility of FPC, making it promising for applications in touch screens, pressure sensors, wearable touch pressure-sensitive modules, and other fields.

[0026] The working principle of pressure-sensitive FPCs is mainly based on the piezoresistive or capacitive effects. When external pressure is applied to the FPC, its internal conductive material or structure deforms, causing changes in electrical parameters such as resistance or capacitance. These changes can be captured by the circuit system and converted into corresponding electrical signals, thereby enabling the sensing and measurement of pressure.

[0027] See 2 and Figure 3 In one embodiment, the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300 is provided with a pressure-sensitive module 310. The pressure-sensitive module 310 includes a plurality of spaced piezoresistive inks 311. Conductive adhesive 312 is provided between each piezoresistive ink 311. The projections of the keycap 100, the connector 210 and the pressure-sensitive module 310 overlap. When the connector 210 deforms, the piezoresistive inks 311 are squeezed to cause the piezoresistive inks 311 to deform.

[0028] The working principle of piezoresistive ink 311 is based on the piezoresistive effect. The characteristic of piezoresistive ink 311 is that its resistance changes when it is deformed by an external force. This change in resistance can be captured by a circuit system and converted into a corresponding electrical signal, thereby enabling the sensing and measurement of pressure. This change is usually related to the applied pressure, and can be linear or non-linear. In piezoresistive ink 311, this effect is achieved through the deformation or rearrangement of conductive particles or conductive networks within the ink under pressure.

[0029] To enhance the sensitivity and stability of the pressure-sensitive module 310, conductive adhesive 312 is placed between each piezoresistive ink 311. The conductive adhesive 312 not only connects the piezoresistive inks 311, but also, when the piezoresistive inks 311 deform, changes in their conductivity further affect the resistance value of the entire pressure-sensitive module 310. This design makes the pressure-sensitive module 310 more sensitive and accurate in responding to pressure.

[0030] Furthermore, the projections of the keycap 100, the deformation transmission component 200, and the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300 must overlap; this is a crucial prerequisite for ensuring the normal operation of the module. Only when the projections of these three components are completely aligned can the deformation transmission component 200 accurately transmit pressure to the pressure-sensitive module 310 when subjected to external force, thereby triggering the deformation and change in resistance of the piezoresistive ink 311. This design not only improves the module's response speed but also ensures its stability and reliability.

[0031] In one embodiment, a support block 320 is provided on the side of the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300 opposite to the deformation transmission assembly 200. The support block 320 may be made of foam. The support block 320 is located in the middle of the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300 (not specifically the exact center position, but only distinguished by its ends), and pressure-sensitive modules 310 are respectively provided on both sides of the support block 320. The provision of the support block 320 can ensure the accuracy and efficiency of deformation transmission, and improve the response speed and accuracy of the module to touch actions.

[0032] The support block 320 is made of foam material, which has good elasticity and resilience, allowing it to maintain its shape and performance during long-term use. This material choice helps improve the module's durability and extend its service life. The foam material also has good sound insulation and vibration damping properties. When the module is subjected to external vibration or noise interference, the support block 320 can effectively reduce the impact of these disturbances on the module's performance, ensuring stable module operation.

[0033] When an external force is applied to the keycap 100, the support block 320 can provide support, thereby ensuring that the connector 210 and the piezoresistive ink 311 can deform normally.

[0034] In this embodiment, only one support block 320 is provided, and the support block 320 is located in the middle of the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300. In other embodiments, it is also possible to provide more support blocks 320. The support blocks 320 can be arranged at intervals on the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300, ensuring that a pressure-sensitive module 310 is provided between every two adjacent support blocks 320.

[0035] In one embodiment, two support members 220 are provided, and the two ends of the keycap 100 are respectively connected to the two support members 220. The two support members 220 can be respectively arranged close to the two ends of the connector 210, so that the deformation transmission assembly 200 is generally U-shaped.

[0036] The deformation transmission component 200 of this structure can already support the keycap 100, and when the keycap 100 is pressed, the deformation transmission component 200 can quickly transmit the deformation to the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300 through the connector 210 which is fully connected to the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300, thereby causing the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300 to undergo slight deformation, which in turn causes the piezoresistive ink 311 to deform and generate an electrical signal.

[0037] The connector 210 deforms under the pressure transmitted by the two supports 220. Due to the relatively uniform pressure distribution, the deformation of the connector 210 is more controllable and regular. This helps the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300 to more accurately sense the degree of deformation of the connector 210, thereby accurately detecting the pressing force and position of the keycap 100 and improving the detection accuracy of the pressure-sensitive module.

[0038] The deformation transmission components in existing pressure-sensitive modules have complex structures. During actual installation, adjusting the position of the keycap 100 may require adjusting the height of the deformation transmission component. Due to their complex structure, existing deformation transmission components require complex machining to change their height. However, the deformation transmission assembly 200 disclosed in this embodiment is connected to the keycap 100 at its top via two support members 220. Therefore, adjusting the height of the deformation transmission assembly 200 only requires grinding the tops of the two support members 220, making machining much easier.

[0039] In one embodiment, the contact area between the support member 220 and the connector 210 is smaller than the contact area between the support member 220 and the keycap 100.

[0040] The smaller contact area between the support member 220 and the connector 210 allows the pressure to be more concentrated on the connector 210 when the keycap 100 is pressed. This pressure concentration effect is similar to applying greater pressure with a sharp object, causing the connector 210 to deform significantly under smaller pressure, thus triggering the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300 more sensitively. Compared to a larger contact area, this greatly improves the pressure-sensitive module's ability to detect minute pressure points, making key operation more sensitive and able to capture more subtle pressing actions.

[0041] A smaller contact area at the connection end helps reduce pressure dispersion and loss during transmission. Pressure can be transmitted more directly and accurately from the support 220 to the connector 210, making the deformation pattern of the connector 210 more consistent with expectations. This allows the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300 to receive a more accurate and clear deformation signal, improving the accuracy and reliability of pressure sensing.

[0042] The larger contact area between the support 220 and the keycap 100 increases the stability of the connection with the keycap 100, effectively preventing the keycap 100 from loosening or falling off during frequent pressing.

[0043] In one embodiment, the support member 220 includes a support bar 221 and a support plate 222. The support bar 221 is connected to the connector 210, the support plate 222 is connected to the end of the support bar 221 away from the connector 210, the support plate 222 is connected to the keycap 100, and the support plate 222 protrudes from the surface of the support bar 221 in a direction away from the other support bar 221.

[0044] The support plate 222 protrudes from the surface of the support strip 221 and connects with the keycap 100, increasing the contact area between the support member 220 and the keycap 100. This allows the pressure to be distributed more evenly to the support member 220 when the keycap 100 is pressed, reducing local stress concentration and thus enhancing the structural stability of the entire pressure-sensitive module and reducing the risk of structural damage due to long-term use or frequent pressing.

[0045] The structure of the support plate 222 protruding from the surface of the support strip 221 increases the rigidity and strength of the support member 220. When the keycap 100 is subjected to greater pressure, the support plate 222 and the support strip 221 can work together to resist deformation, preventing the support member 220 from bending or twisting excessively, and ensuring that the pressure-sensitive module maintains stable performance under various pressing conditions.

[0046] The protruding portion of the support plate 222 can more sensitively sense minute displacements and pressure changes in the keycap 100. When the keycap 100 is slightly pressed, the support plate 222 immediately undergoes a slight deformation, transmitting this deformation to the support strip 221 and the connector 210, thereby triggering the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300 to generate a corresponding electrical signal. This design allows the pressure-sensitive module to detect even minute pressure levels, improving pressure sensitivity and providing users with a more refined operating experience.

[0047] In one embodiment, the end face of the support bar 221 that connects to the connector 210 is spaced apart on the connector 210.

[0048] The spaced arrangement of the support bar 221 end faces ensures that the pressure on the keycap 100 is not concentrated on a single localized area of ​​the connector 210, but is evenly distributed across the two spaced connection points. This stress dispersion effectively prevents fatigue damage and plastic deformation of the connector 210 due to excessive localized stress, significantly extending the service life of the connector 210 and the entire pressure-sensitive module. For example, in scenarios involving frequent key presses, such as gaming or prolonged text input, the spaced connection structure can better withstand repeated pressure impacts and maintain structural stability. In one embodiment, the distance by which the support plate 222 protrudes from the support bar 221 is less than or equal to the distance by which the end face of the corresponding part of the connector 210 protrudes from the support bar 221 in the length direction.

[0049] The well-controlled protrusion distance of the support plate 222 allows the pressure on the keycap 100 to be transmitted more directly to the support strip 221, and then from the support strip 221 to the connector 210. Since the protrusion distance of the support plate 222 is no greater than the protrusion distance of the connector 210's end face, the pressure transmission process will not result in unnecessary deflection or dispersion due to excessive protrusion of the support plate 222, ensuring the straightness and accuracy of the pressure transmission path. This allows the connector 210 to more accurately sense the pressure applied to the keycap 100, improving the accuracy of pressure sensitivity detection.

[0050] Through the above embodiments, this application has the following beneficial effects or advantages: The pressure-sensitive module disclosed in this application, by reasonably setting the structure of the deformation transmission component 200, such as the connection method between the support member 220 and the connector 210, and the shape of the support member 220, enables the small pressure on the keycap 100 to be transmitted more effectively to the connector 210, and makes the connector 210 more prone to deformation, thereby triggering the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300, greatly improving the pressure sensitivity. The U-shaped deformation transmission component 200 also reduces the difficulty and cost of manufacturing and modification.

[0051] Based on the same inventive concept, the second aspect of this application discloses a touch panel, which includes a button and a touch pressure-sensitive module according to any of the first aspects described above. The button is located on the side of the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300 away from the deformation transmission component 200, and is touched when the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300 is triggered.

[0052] The touch panel disclosed in this application achieves a highly integrated touch pressure-sensitive module by tightly combining the keycap 100, the deformation transmission component 200 and the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300. The simpler deformation transmission component 200 reduces manufacturing costs and also enables the small pressure on the keycap 100 to be transmitted to the connector 210 more effectively, greatly improving pressure sensitivity.

[0053] Based on the same inventive concept, a third aspect of this application discloses an electronic device including the touch panel described in the second aspect above.

[0054] The electronic device disclosed in this application achieves a highly integrated touch pressure-sensitive module by tightly combining the keycap 100, the deformation transmission component 200 and the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board 300. The simpler deformation transmission component 200 reduces manufacturing costs and enables the small pressure on the keycap 100 to be transmitted to the connector 210 more effectively, greatly improving pressure sensitivity.

[0055] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model have been clearly and completely described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this utility model described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0056] Therefore, the above detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention disclosed in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0057] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0058] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms indicating orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.

[0059] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0060] In this invention, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above or below" the first feature may include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on" the first feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the first feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0061] Although preferred embodiments of this application have been described, those skilled in the art, upon learning the basic inventive concept, can make other changes and modifications to these embodiments. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to be interpreted as including the preferred embodiments as well as all changes and modifications falling within the scope of this application.

[0062] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A pressure-sensitive module, characterized in that, include: keycap; A deformation transmission assembly includes a connector and at least two support members, each support member being spaced apart along the length direction of the connector, and the end of each support member facing away from the connector being connected to the keycap; and A pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board is connected to the side of the connector opposite to the support member; When the keycap is pressed, the connector deforms and triggers the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board to deform as well.

2. The pressure-sensitive module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support is provided in two parts, and the two ends of the keycap are respectively connected to the two support parts.

3. The pressure-sensitive module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The contact area between the support member and the connecting end of the connector is smaller than the contact area between the support member and the keycap connecting end.

4. The pressure-sensitive module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The support member includes a support bar and a support plate. The support bar is connected to the connector. The support plate is connected to the end of the support bar away from the connector. The support plate is connected to the keycap. The support plate protrudes from the surface of the support bar in a direction away from the other support bar.

5. The pressure-sensitive module according to claim 4, characterized in that, The end face of the support bar that connects to the connector is spaced apart on the connector.

6. The pressure-sensitive module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The distance by which the support plate protrudes from the support strip is less than or equal to the distance by which the end face of the corresponding part of the connector protrudes from the support strip along its length direction.

7. The pressure-sensitive module according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board is provided with a pressure-sensitive module, which includes a plurality of spaced piezoresistive inks, with conductive adhesive disposed between each piezoresistive ink. The projections of the keycap, the connector, and the pressure-sensitive module overlap. When the connector deforms, it squeezes the piezoresistive inks to cause the piezoresistive inks to deform.

8. The pressure-sensitive module according to claim 7, characterized in that, A support block is also provided on the side of the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board away from the deformation transmission component. The support block is located in the middle of the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board, and the pressure-sensitive modules are respectively provided on both sides of the support block.

9. A touch panel, characterized in that, Includes a button and a pressure-sensitive module as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the button is located on the side of the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board away from the deformation transmission component, and the button is activated when the pressure-sensitive flexible circuit board is triggered.

10. An electronic device, characterized in that, Includes the touch panel as described in claim 9.

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