pressure-sensitive element

Abstract

The contact pressure between the first electrode and the third electrode is adjustable. [Solution] The pressure-sensitive element 1 comprises a first electrode 11, a second electrode, a dielectric, and a connecting portion. The first electrode 11 is a conductive elastic body. The connecting portion is electrically connected to the first electrode 11. The connecting portion includes a third electrode 22, a substrate 23, an elastic member 21, and an adjustment member 3. The third electrode 22 is electrically connected to the first electrode 11. The substrate 23 fixes the third electrode 22. The elastic member 21 is arranged in the thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23 so as to sandwich the first electrode 11 between itself and the third electrode 22. The adjustment member 3 adjusts the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22. The adjustment member 3 has a first state and a second state. When the adjustment member 3 transitions from the first state to the second state, the contact pressure increases.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to pressure-sensitive elements, and more particularly to a pressure-sensitive element including a conductive elastic body.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a pressure-sensitive element. The pressure-sensitive element described in Patent Document 1 includes a first electrode made of a conductive elastic body, a second electrode made of a conductor wire, and a dielectric covering the surface of the second electrode. A capacitance is formed by the first electrode, the second electrode, and the dielectric, and the area of the contact region changes according to the pressing force applied to the pressure-sensitive element, so that the capacitance changes. In the pressure-sensitive element described in Patent Document 1, the first electrode and the lead-out electrode are brought into contact and electrically connected, and electrical lead-out is performed from the first electrode.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Meanwhile, in a pressure-sensitive element such as that disclosed in Patent Document 1, the electrical connection between the first electrode and the third electrode may become unstable depending on the contact pressure between the first electrode and the lead-out electrode (third electrode).

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a pressure-sensitive element capable of adjusting the contact pressure between the first electrode and the third electrode.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A pressure-sensitive element according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a first electrode, a second electrode, a dielectric, and a connecting portion. The first electrode is a conductive elastic body. The second electrode is arranged to overlap the first electrode. The dielectric is interposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The connecting portion is electrically connected to the first electrode. The connecting portion includes a third electrode, a substrate, an elastic member, and an adjusting member. The third electrode is electrically connected to the first electrode. The substrate fixes the third electrode. The elastic member is arranged to sandwich the first electrode between itself and the third electrode in the thickness direction of the substrate. The adjusting member adjusts the contact pressure between the first electrode and the third electrode. The adjusting member has a first state and a second state. When the adjusting member transitions from the first state to the second state, the contact pressure increases. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this disclosure, the contact pressure between the first electrode and the third electrode can be adjusted. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a pressure-sensitive element according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating how the pressure-sensitive element described above detects the pressing force. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating how the pressure-sensitive element described above detects the pressing force. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the cross-section along line AA in Figure 1 when the adjustment member of the pressure-sensitive element is in the first state. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the cross-section along line AA in Figure 1 when the adjustment member of the pressure-sensitive element is in the second state. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of a pressure-sensitive element according to a modified example 1 of Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of a pressure-sensitive element according to a modified example 2 of Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing a pressure-sensitive element according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the cross-section along line BB in Figure 8 when the adjustment member of the pressure-sensitive element is in the first state. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the cross-section along line BB in Figure 8 when the adjustment member of the pressure-sensitive element is in the second state. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of a pressure-sensitive element when the adjustment member provided in the pressure-sensitive element according to Embodiment 3 is in the first state. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of the pressure-sensitive element when the adjustment member provided by the pressure-sensitive element is in the second state. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of a pressure-sensitive element when the adjustment member provided in the pressure-sensitive element according to Embodiment 4 is in the first state. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of the pressure-sensitive element when the adjustment member provided by the pressure-sensitive element is in the second state. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of a pressure-sensitive element when the adjustment member provided in the pressure-sensitive element according to Embodiment 5 is in the first state. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of the pressure-sensitive element when the adjustment member provided by the pressure-sensitive element is in the second state. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of a pressure-sensitive element when the adjustment member provided in the pressure-sensitive element according to Embodiment 6 is in the first state. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of the pressure-sensitive element when the adjustment member provided by the pressure-sensitive element is in the second state. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of a pressure-sensitive element when the adjustment member provided in the pressure-sensitive element according to Embodiment 7 is in the first state. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of the pressure-sensitive element when the adjustment member provided by the pressure-sensitive element is in the second state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, a plurality of preferred embodiments related to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Elements common to the plurality of embodiments described below are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions of the common elements may be omitted. Note that the following plurality of embodiments and modified examples are only part of various embodiments of the present disclosure. Further, the following plurality of embodiments and modified examples can be modified in various ways according to design and the like as long as the objectives of the present disclosure can be achieved. It is also possible to appropriately combine the configurations of the plurality of embodiments and modified examples.

[0010] Each drawing described in the present disclosure is a schematic diagram, and the ratio of the size and thickness of each constituent element in each drawing does not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratio. Note that the arrows indicating respective directions in the drawings are merely examples, and are not intended to define the directions during use of the pressure-sensitive element 1. Further, the arrows indicating respective directions in the drawings are merely presented for explanation and have no physical substance.

[0011] (Embodiment 1) (1) Overview First, an overview of the pressure-sensitive element 1 according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 4.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1, the pressure-sensitive element 1 includes a first electrode 11, a second electrode 12, a dielectric 13, and a connection portion 2.

[0013] The first electrode 11 is a conductive elastic body.

[0014] The second electrode 12 is arranged to overlap with the first electrode 11.

[0015] The dielectric 13 is interposed between the first electrode 11 and the second electrode 12.

[0016] The connection part 2 is electrically connected to the first electrode 11. As shown in Figure 4, the connection part 2 includes a third electrode 22, a substrate 23, an elastic member 21, and an adjustment member 3.

[0017] The third electrode 22 is electrically connected to the first electrode 11.

[0018] The substrate 23 holds the third electrode 22 in place.

[0019] The elastic member 21 is positioned so as to sandwich the first electrode 11 between it and the third electrode 22 in the thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23.

[0020] The adjustment member 3 adjusts the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22. The adjustment member 3 has two states: a first state and a second state. When the adjustment member 3 transitions from the first state to the second state, the contact pressure increases.

[0021] For example, if the electrical connection between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22 becomes unstable, the adjustment member 3 can be heated and thermally contracted, causing it to transition from a first state to a second state. This increases the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22, thereby stabilizing the electrical connection between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22. In other words, the pressure-sensitive element 1 of Embodiment 1 allows for adjustment of the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22.

[0022] (2)Details The detailed configuration of the pressure-sensitive element 1 according to Embodiment 1 will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 5.

[0023] The pressure-sensitive element 1 according to Embodiment 1 is used, for example, in fields such as robots, industrial equipment, and vehicles. The pressure-sensitive element 1 is attached, for example, to the finger of a robot and detects the force (hereinafter referred to as "pressure force") applied to the part touched by the finger to which the pressure-sensitive element 1 is attached. More specifically, the pressure-sensitive element 1 detects the pressure force based on the change in capacitance formed by the first electrode 11, the second electrode 12, and the dielectric 13. In other words, the pressure-sensitive element 1 is a capacitive type sensor.

[0024] (2.1) Configuration of pressure-sensitive element As shown in Figure 1, the pressure-sensitive element 1 comprises a plurality of (three in the example of Figure 1) first electrodes 11, a plurality of (three in the example of Figure 1) second electrodes 12, a plurality of (three in the example of Figure 1) dielectrics 13, and a plurality of (five in the example of Figure 1) insulating members 18.

[0025] In Embodiment 1, the shape of the first electrode 11 is a strip (or plate) with a longitudinal direction. The longitudinal direction of the first electrode 11 is along the first direction D1. The insulating member 18 is an elastic body. The shape of the insulating member 18 is a strip (or plate) with a longitudinal direction. The longitudinal direction of the insulating member 18 is along the first direction D1. The multiple insulating members 18 and the multiple first electrodes 11 are arranged alternately in the second direction D2 which is perpendicular to the first direction D1. In Embodiment 1, the main surfaces of the multiple first electrodes 11 and the main surfaces of the multiple insulating members 18 are flush.

[0026] Furthermore, the term "orthogonal (perpendicular)" as used in this disclosure includes not only a state where the angle between two objects is exactly 90 degrees, but also a state where the two objects intersect within a certain range of difference. In other words, the angle between two orthogonal objects falls within a certain range of difference from 90 degrees (for example, 10 degrees or less). That is, the term "orthogonal" as used in this disclosure includes cases where the angle between two objects is between 80 degrees and 100 degrees.

[0027] Multiple second electrodes 12 and multiple dielectrics 13 correspond one-to-one. Each second electrode 12 is covered by the corresponding dielectric 13. The second electrode 12 is a conductive linear member. The second electrode 12 is positioned on the first electrode 11 so as to overlap it. Furthermore, the second electrode 12 is positioned along the second direction D2. In other words, the pressure-sensitive element 1 of Embodiment 1 is a matrix sensor in which the longitudinal direction of the first electrode 11 and the linear length direction of the second electrode 12 are orthogonal (or intersect). The second electrode 12 and dielectric 13 of Embodiment 1 are fixed to the insulating member 18 by multiple restraining members 15.

[0028] The dielectric 13 covers the second electrode 12. In other words, the dielectric 13 is interposed between the second electrode 12 and the first electrode 11. The material of the dielectric 13 includes, for example, a synthetic resin.

[0029] Furthermore, the pressure-sensitive element 1 includes a connection part 2 electrically connected to a plurality of first electrodes 11, and a connection part 2A electrically connected to a plurality of second electrodes 12. In other words, a plurality of first electrodes 11 are drawn into the connection part 2, and a plurality of second electrodes 12 are drawn into the connection part 2A. By connecting the connection part 2 and the connection part 2A to an external circuit (or external device), the capacitance at the point where the first electrodes 11 and the second electrodes 12 intersect in a plan view, and the change in capacitance, are measured.

[0030] When no pressing force is applied to the pressure-sensitive element 1, the first electrode 11 and the second electrode 12 are in line contact via the dielectric 13, as shown in Figure 2. When a pressing force is applied to the pressure-sensitive element 1, the first electrode 11 is pressed against the second electrode 12 via the dielectric 13 and deforms, as shown in Figure 3. This increases the contact area between the first electrode 11, the second electrode 12, and the dielectric 13, and changes the capacitance formed by the first electrode 11, the second electrode 12, and the dielectric 13. As a result, the pressure-sensitive element 1 can detect the pressing force. In Figures 2 and 3, member 100 is, for example, a member positioned to sandwich the second electrode 12 and the dielectric 13 between itself and the first electrode 11. The material of member 100 includes, for example, rubber. In other words, member 100 is, for example, an elastic body.

[0031] (2.2) Configuration of the connection part Next, the configuration of the connection part 2 according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Figures 4 and 5 are schematic cross-sectional views along line AA in Figure 1.

[0032] As shown in Figure 4, the connection portion 2 of Embodiment 1 includes a third electrode 22, a substrate 23, an elastic member 21, a first thread 31 (adjustment member 3), and a second thread 32.

[0033] The substrate 23 has a flat shape. The thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23 is perpendicular to both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. In the connection portion 2 of Embodiment 1, the elastic member 21, the first electrode 11, the third electrode 22, and the substrate 23 are arranged in stacked order in the thickness direction D3. More specifically, the elastic member 21, the first electrode 11, the third electrode 22, and the substrate 23 are arranged in stacked order from top to bottom as follows: elastic member 21, first electrode 11, third electrode 22, and substrate 23. In this disclosure, the direction along the thickness direction D3 is defined as the up-down direction. The direction approaching the elastic member 21 from the substrate 23 is defined as up, and the direction approaching the substrate 23 from the elastic member 21 is defined as down. In this disclosure, the direction along the second direction D2 is defined as the left-right direction.

[0034] The substrate 23 is formed of a material containing synthetic resin. The substrate 23 fixes the third electrode 22. In other words, the third electrode 22 is mounted on the substrate 23. The substrate 23 has a first surface 231 (third surface) and a second surface 232. The first surface 231 is the surface on which the third electrode 22 is fixed. The second surface 232 is the surface opposite to the first surface 231. In Embodiment 1, the first surface 231 is the top surface and the second surface 232 is the bottom surface.

[0035] The third electrode 22 has a flat plate shape. The third electrode 22 is made of, for example, copper. As described above, the third electrode 22 is mounted on the substrate 23. More specifically, the third electrode 22 is mounted on the first surface 231 side of the substrate 23. The third electrode 22 has a main surface 221. The main surface 221 faces and is in contact with the first electrode 11 in the thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23. In Embodiment 1, the main surface 221 of the third electrode 22 and the first surface 231 of the substrate 23 are flush.

[0036] The elastic member 21 has a flat plate shape. The elastic member 21 is, for example, a rubber material. The elastic member 21 is placed on the first electrode 11. The elastic member 21 has a first surface 211 and a second surface 212. The first surface 211 is the surface in contact with the first electrode 11. The second surface 212 is the surface opposite to the first surface 211. In Embodiment 1, the second surface 212 is the upper surface and the first surface 211 is the lower surface.

[0037] The first thread 31 (upper thread) is an example of the adjustment member 3. The first thread 31 is a heat-shrinkable thread-like member. The first thread 31 is made of a material containing, for example, polyolefin. In Embodiment 1, the first thread 31 (adjustment member 3) is heat-shrinkable by the manufacturer of the pressure-sensitive element 1 to a degree that allows for further heat shrinkage by the time the pressure-sensitive element 1 is shipped. In other words, the first state of the adjustment member 3 in Embodiment 1 is a state that has been heat-shrinkable to a degree that allows for further heat shrinkage.

[0038] The elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 are sutured together by a first thread 31 along the second direction D2. More specifically, the elastic member 21, the first electrode 11, the third electrode 22, and the substrate 23 are sutured together by the first thread 31 so as to penetrate along the thickness direction D3. When the first thread 31 reaches its shrinkage temperature (e.g., around 100°C), it transitions from a first state to a second state due to thermal contraction. For example, the first thread 31 is in the first state at room temperature (e.g., 20°C ± 15°C), and transitions from the first state to the second state when it reaches its shrinkage temperature (e.g., around 100°C). For example, the first thread 31 reaches its shrinkage temperature and transitions from the first state to the second state when heated, for example, with a heat gun by the user of the pressure-sensitive element 1 or a worker performing maintenance or repair on the pressure-sensitive element 1.

[0039] The second thread 32 (lower thread) is an example of the adjustment member 3. The second thread 32 is a heat-shrinkable thread-like member. The first thread 31 is made of a material containing, for example, polyolefin. However, it is not essential that the second thread 32 is heat-shrinkable. In other words, it is not essential that the second thread 32 is the adjustment member 3.

[0040] In Embodiment 1, the elastic member 21, the first electrode 11, the third electrode 22, and the substrate 23 are sewn together (for example, by straight stitching) using the first thread 31 and the second thread 32, for example, by a sewing machine, with the first thread 31 being the upper thread and the second thread 32 being the lower thread.

[0041] Figure 4 illustrates the connection portion 2 when, for example, the suture by the first thread 31 has loosened due to aging, and the state of the first thread 31 is the first state. Figure 5 illustrates the connection portion 2 when, from the state shown in Figure 4, the first thread 31 is heated with a heat gun or the like to reach its shrinkage temperature, and the first thread 31 transitions from the first state to the second state. The thickness T1 in Figure 4 is the thickness between the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 when the first thread 31 is in the first state. The thickness T2 in Figure 5 is the thickness between the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 when the first thread 31 is in the second state. As the first thread 31 shrinks due to heat, the contact pressure between the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 increases, so the thickness T2 becomes thinner than the thickness T1.

[0042] As described above, in the pressure-sensitive element 1 of Embodiment 1, the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 are sutured together by a heat-shrinkable thread-like first thread 31. As a result, even if the suture by the first thread 31 loosens over time, for example, the loosening can be resolved by heating the first thread 31 with a heat gun or the like, increasing the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22, thereby stabilizing the electrical connection. Furthermore, in the pressure-sensitive element 1 of Embodiment 1, since the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22 can be increased by heating the first thread 31, it is easy to adjust the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22.

[0043] (3) Variant The following are examples of modifications of Embodiment 1.

[0044] (3.1) Variation 1 As shown in Figure 6, the connection portion 2 may further have a plurality (five in the example of Figure 5) conductive members 4A. Note that the first thread 31 and the second thread 32 are not shown in Figure 6.

[0045] The conductive member 4A is formed of a material containing, for example, a conductive polymer. The conductive member 4A has a hemispherical shape. The conductive member 4A has a bottom surface 41A. Each of the plurality of conductive members 4A is positioned between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22 such that its bottom surface 41 is in contact with the third electrode 22.

[0046] The conductive member 4A has relatively high conductivity and flexibility. Therefore, by placing the conductive member 4A between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22, surface irregularities of the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22 can be filled, reducing the contact resistance between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22. This further stabilizes the electrical connection between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22.

[0047] (3.2) Variation 2 As shown in Figure 7, the connecting portion 2 may further have a conductive adhesive 4B. Note that the first thread 31 and the second thread 32 are not shown in Figure 7.

[0048] The conductive adhesive 4B is formed from a material including, for example, epoxy resin and silver paste. The conductive adhesive 4B is placed between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22, and mechanically and electrically connects the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22.

[0049] The conductive adhesive 4B has relatively high conductivity and flexibility. Therefore, when the conductive adhesive 4B is placed between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22, it fills in surface irregularities between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22, reducing contact resistance between them. This further stabilizes the electrical connection between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22. Furthermore, because the conductive adhesive 4B mechanically connects the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22, it suppresses separation between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22, further stabilizing the electrical connection between them.

[0050] (Embodiment 2) As shown in Figures 8 to 10, the connection portion 2 of the pressure-sensitive element 1 in Embodiment 2 differs from the pressure-sensitive element 1 in Embodiment 1 in that it has an adjustment member 3A instead of the first thread 31 and the second thread 32.

[0051] The adjustment member 3A is heat-shrinkable. Furthermore, the adjustment member 3A of Embodiment 2 is elastic. The adjustment member 3A is formed from a material including, for example, polyolefin. In Embodiment 2, the adjustment member 3A is heat-shrinkable by the manufacturer of the pressure-sensitive element 1, etc., to the extent that it can be further heat-shrinked by the time the pressure-sensitive element 1 is shipped. In other words, the first state of the adjustment member 3A in Embodiment 2 is a state in which it has been heat-shrinkable to the extent that it can be further heat-shrinkable.

[0052] The shape of the adjustment member 3A is cylindrical. In this disclosure, "cylindrical" includes both cylindrical and rectangular cylindrical shapes. The axial direction of the adjustment member 3A is along the first direction D1. As shown in Figure 8, the adjustment member 3A is positioned to straddle the first electrode 11 in the second direction D2 when viewed from the thickness direction D3. That is, the adjustment member 3A overlaps with the first electrode 11 when viewed from the thickness direction D3. Note that, when viewed from the thickness direction D3, the adjustment member 3A does not overlap with at least one of the ends of the connection portion 2 in the first direction D1.

[0053] The adjustment member 3A surrounds a portion of the elastic member 21 and a portion of the substrate 23 when viewed from the axial direction of the adjustment member 3A (i.e., the first direction D1). The adjustment member 3A may also be positioned so as to straddle both ends of the connection portion 2 in the second direction D2 and overlap with both ends of the connection portion 2 in the first direction D1 when viewed from the thickness direction D3. In other words, the adjustment member 3A surrounds the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 when viewed from the axial direction of the adjustment member 3A (i.e., the first direction D1). That is, the adjustment member 3A only needs to surround at least a portion of the elastic member 21 and at least a portion of the substrate 23 when viewed from the axial direction of the adjustment member 3A. The adjustment member 3A surrounds at least a portion of the elastic member 21 and at least a portion of the substrate 23, and tightens the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 toward the center (axis) of the adjustment member 3A.

[0054] The adjustment member 3A transitions from the first state to the second state due to thermal contraction when it reaches its contraction temperature (for example, around 100°C). For example, the adjustment member 3A is in the first state at room temperature (for example, 20°C ± 15°C), and transitions from the first state to the second state when it reaches its contraction temperature (for example, around 100°C). For example, the adjustment member 3A reaches its contraction temperature and transitions from the first state to the second state when it is heated, for example, with a heat gun by the user of the pressure-sensitive element 1, or by a worker performing maintenance or repair on the pressure-sensitive element 1.

[0055] Figure 9 illustrates the connection portion 2 when, for example, the tightening by the adjustment member 3A has loosened due to aging, and the state of the adjustment member 3A is the first state. Figure 10 also illustrates the connection portion 2 when, from the state shown in Figure 9, the adjustment member 3A is heated with a heat gun or the like to reach its shrinkage temperature, and the adjustment member 3A transitions from the first state to the second state. The thickness T1 in Figure 9 is the thickness between the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 when the adjustment member 3A is in the first state. The thickness T2 in Figure 10 is the thickness between the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 when the adjustment member 3A is in the second state. As the adjustment member 3A shrinks due to heat, the contact pressure between the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 increases, so the thickness T2 becomes thinner than the thickness T1.

[0056] As described above, in the pressure-sensitive element 1 of Embodiment 2, at least a portion of the elastic member 21 and at least a portion of the substrate 23 are surrounded by a heat-shrinkable cylindrical adjustment member 3A. As a result, even if the tightening by the adjustment member 3A loosens due to aging, for example, the loosening can be eliminated by heating the adjustment member 3A with a heat gun or the like, increasing the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22, thereby stabilizing the electrical connection. Furthermore, in the pressure-sensitive element 1 of Embodiment 2, since the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22 can be increased by heating the adjustment member 3A, it is easy to adjust the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22.

[0057] (Embodiment 3) As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the connection portion 2 of the pressure-sensitive element 1 in Embodiment 3 differs from the pressure-sensitive element 1 in Embodiment 1 in that it has an adjustment member 3B instead of the first thread 31 and the second thread 32.

[0058] The shape of the adjustment member 3B is similar to that of a so-called eyelet. The adjustment member 3B is heat-shrinkable. The adjustment member 3B is made of a material including, for example, nylon elastomer. In Embodiment 3, the adjustment member 3B is heat-shrinkable by the manufacturer of the pressure-sensitive element 1, etc., to the extent that it can be further heat-shrinked by the time the pressure-sensitive element 1 is shipped. In other words, the first state of the adjustment member 3B in Embodiment 3 is a state in which it has been heat-shrinkable to the extent that it can be further heat-shrinkable.

[0059] Furthermore, the adjustment member 3B is elastic. This makes it easier to maintain the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22 by allowing the adjustment member 3B to deform in accordance with the deformation of the connection part 2, even if the connection part 2 is deformed, such as by bending.

[0060] The adjustment member 3B has a shaft portion 31B, a first flange portion 32B, and a second flange portion 33B.

[0061] The shaft portion 31B has a cylindrical shape. However, the shape of the shaft portion 31B may be cylindrical or prismatic. The shaft portion 31B penetrates the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 along the thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23. More specifically, the shaft portion 31B penetrates the elastic member 21, the first electrode 11, the third electrode 22, and the substrate 23 along the thickness direction D3. The shaft portion 31B has a first end 301 in the thickness direction D3 and a second end 302 on the opposite side of the first end 301.

[0062] The first flange portion 32B protrudes from the first end 301 along the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21. More specifically, the first flange portion 32B protrudes along the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21, spreading radially from the first end 301 to the shaft portion 31B. When viewed from the thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23, the shape of the first flange portion 32B is round. However, the shape of the first flange portion 32B when viewed from the thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23 may be rectangular. The lower surface of the first flange portion 32B is in contact with the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21.

[0063] The second flange portion 33B protrudes from the second end 302 along the second surface 232 (fourth surface) of the substrate 23. More specifically, the second flange portion 33B protrudes along the second surface 232 of the substrate 23, spreading radially from the second end 302 in the direction of the shaft portion 31B. When viewed from the thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23, the shape of the second flange portion 33B is round. However, the shape of the second flange portion 33B when viewed from the thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23 may be rectangular. The upper surface of the second flange portion 33B is in contact with the second surface 232 of the substrate 23.

[0064] When the adjustment member 3B reaches its shrinkage temperature, it transitions from the first state to the second state due to thermal contraction. For example, the adjustment member 3B is in the first state at room temperature (e.g., 20°C ± 15°C), and transitions from the first state to the second state when it reaches its shrinkage temperature (e.g., around 100°C). For example, the adjustment member 3B reaches its shrinkage temperature and transitions from the first state to the second state when it is heated, for example, with a heat gun, by the user of the pressure-sensitive element 1, or by a worker performing maintenance or repair on the pressure-sensitive element 1.

[0065] Figure 11 illustrates the connection portion 2 when, for example, the tightening by the adjustment member 3B has loosened due to aging, and the state of the adjustment member 3B is the first state. Figure 12 also illustrates the connection portion 2 when, from the state shown in Figure 11, the adjustment member 3B is heated with a heat gun or the like to reach its shrinkage temperature, and the adjustment member 3B transitions from the first state to the second state. The thickness T1 in Figure 11 is the thickness between the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 when the adjustment member 3B is in the first state. The thickness T2 in Figure 12 is the thickness between the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 when the adjustment member 3B is in the second state. As the adjustment member 3B shrinks due to heat, the contact pressure between the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 increases, so the thickness T2 becomes thinner than the thickness T1.

[0066] As described above, in the pressure-sensitive element 1 of Embodiment 3, the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 are passed through an adjustment member 3B that has the shape of a so-called eyelet. As a result, even if the tightening by the adjustment member 3B loosens due to aging, for example, the loosening can be eliminated by heating the adjustment member 3B with a heat gun or the like, thereby increasing the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22 and stabilizing the electrical connection. Furthermore, in the pressure-sensitive element 1 of Embodiment 3, since the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22 can be increased by heating the adjustment member 3B, it is easy to adjust the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22.

[0067] In Embodiment 3, the shaft portion 31B is shown as penetrating the elastic member 21, the first electrode 11, the third electrode 22, and the substrate 23 along the thickness direction D3. However, it is not essential that the shaft portion 31B penetrates the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22 along the thickness direction D3. For example, the shaft portion 31B may penetrate the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 in the vicinity of the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22. Also, in Embodiment 3, the case where one adjustment member 3B is arranged for one first electrode 11 is shown as an example, but multiple adjustment members 3B may be arranged for one first electrode 11.

[0068] (Embodiment 4) As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the connection portion 2 of the pressure-sensitive element 1 in Embodiment 4 differs from the pressure-sensitive element 1 in Embodiment 3 in that it has an adjustment member 3C instead of an adjustment member 3B.

[0069] The adjustment member 3C includes a bolt 30C (or screw) and a nut 33C. The bolt 30C and nut 33C are made of a metal material such as aluminum or stainless steel.

[0070] The bolt 30C has a head 31C and a shaft 32C. The shaft 32C penetrates the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 along the thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23. More specifically, the shaft 32C penetrates the elastic member 21, the first electrode 11, the third electrode 22, and the substrate 23 along the thickness direction D3. The lower surface of the head 31C is in contact with the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21. The nut 33C is attached to the shaft 32C. The upper surface of the nut 33C is in contact with the second surface 232 of the substrate 23.

[0071] The pressure-sensitive element 1 transitions from the first state to the second state when the bolt 30C and nut 33C are tightened by the user of the pressure-sensitive element 1, or by a worker performing maintenance or repair on the pressure-sensitive element 1.

[0072] Figure 13 illustrates the connection part 2 when, for example, the tightening by the adjustment member 3C has loosened due to aging, and the state of the adjustment member 3C is the first state. Figure 14 illustrates the connection part 2 when, from the state shown in Figure 13, the adjustment member 3C transitions from the first state to the second state by tightening the bolt 30C and nut 33C. The thickness T1 in Figure 13 is the thickness between the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 when the adjustment member 3C is in the first state. The thickness T2 in Figure 14 is the thickness between the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 when the adjustment member 3C is in the second state. As the bolt 30C and nut 33C are tightened, the contact pressure between the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 increases, so the thickness T2 becomes thinner than the thickness T1.

[0073] According to the pressure-sensitive element 1 of Embodiment 4, the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22 can be increased by tightening the bolt 30C and nut 33C of the adjustment member 3C, making it easy to adjust the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22.

[0074] (Embodiment 5) As shown in Figure 15, the connection portion 2 of the pressure-sensitive element 1 in Embodiment 5 differs from the pressure-sensitive element 1 in Embodiment 1 in that it has a fixing member 5A instead of the first thread 31 and the second thread 32. Furthermore, the pressure-sensitive element 1 (or pressure-sensitive element system) in Embodiment 5 differs from the pressure-sensitive element 1 in Embodiment 1 in that it has an adjustment member 3F (see Figure 16) that can be attached to the pressure-sensitive element 1.

[0075] The fixing member 5A in Embodiment 5 is elastic. The fixing member 5A is a rubber material. The fixing member 5A may also be heat-shrinkable.

[0076] The fixing member 5A has a cylindrical shape. The axial direction of the fixing member 5A is along the first direction D1. When viewed from the thickness direction D3, the fixing member 5A is positioned to straddle the first electrode 11 in the second direction D2. In other words, when viewed from the thickness direction D3, the fixing member 5A overlaps with the first electrode 11. When viewed from the thickness direction D3, the fixing member 5A does not overlap with at least one of the ends of the connection portion 2 in the first direction D1.

[0077] The fixing member 5A surrounds a part of the elastic member 21 and a part of the substrate 23 when viewed from the axial direction of the fixing member 5A (i.e., the first direction D1). The fixing member 5A may also be positioned so as to straddle both ends of the connection portion 2 in the second direction D2 and overlap with both ends of the connection portion 2 in the first direction D1 when viewed from the thickness direction D3. In other words, the fixing member 5A surrounds the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 when viewed from the axial direction of the fixing member 5A (i.e., the first direction D1). That is, the fixing member 5A only needs to surround at least a part of the elastic member 21 and at least a part of the substrate 23 when viewed from the axial direction of the fixing member 5A.

[0078] The adjustment component 3F is shipped together with, for example, the pressure-sensitive element 1. In other words, the pressure-sensitive element 1 and the adjustment component 3F constitute a pressure-sensitive element system, which is then shipped as a complete pressure-sensitive element system.

[0079] The adjustment member 3F is made of a synthetic resin material or a metal material. The shape of the adjustment member 3F is a cone with a rounded apex. However, the shape of the adjustment member 3F may be a pyramidal shape with a rounded apex.

[0080] The adjustment member 3F is detachable from the connection portion 2 of the pressure-sensitive element 1. The state in which the adjustment member 3F is removed from the connection portion 2 of the pressure-sensitive element 1 is the first state of the adjustment member 3F. The adjustment member 3F is placed between the elastic member 21 and the fixing member 5A, or between the substrate 23 and the fixing member 5A, by the user of the pressure-sensitive element 1, or by a worker performing maintenance or repair on the pressure-sensitive element 1. The state in which the adjustment member 3F is placed between the elastic member 21 and the fixing member 5A, or between the substrate 23 and the fixing member 5A, is the second state of the adjustment member 3F. Embodiment 5 illustrates the case in which the adjustment member 3F is placed between the substrate 23 and the fixing member 5A (see Figure 16). By placing the adjustment member 3F between the elastic member 21 and the fixing member 5A, or between the substrate 23 and the fixing member 5A, the elastic force of the fixing member 5A increases.

[0081] Figure 15 illustrates the connection portion 2 when, for example, the elastic force of the fixing member 5A decreases due to aging, and the state of the adjustment member 3F is the first state. Figure 16 illustrates the connection portion 2 when, from the state shown in Figure 15, the adjustment member 3F is placed between the substrate 23 and the fixing member 5A, and the adjustment member 3F transitions from the first state to the second state. The thickness T1 in Figure 15 is the thickness between the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 when the adjustment member 3F is in the first state. The thickness T2 in Figure 16 is the thickness between the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 when the adjustment member 3F is in the second state. When the adjustment member 3F is placed between the substrate 23 and the fixing member 5A, the elastic force of the fixing member 5A increases. As a result, the contact pressure between the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 increases, and the thickness T2 becomes thinner than the thickness T1.

[0082] As described above, according to the pressure-sensitive element 1 (or pressure-sensitive element system) of Embodiment 5, the elastic force of the fixing member 5A can be adjusted depending on the state (presence or absence) of the adjustment member 3F. This makes it possible to increase the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22, thereby stabilizing the electrical connection.

[0083] (Embodiment 6) As shown in Figure 17, the connection portion 2 of the pressure-sensitive element 1 in Embodiment 6 differs from the pressure-sensitive element 1 in Embodiment 1 in that it has a fixing member 5A and an adjustment member 3H instead of the first thread 31 and the second thread 32.

[0084] The adjustment member 3H is made of a synthetic resin material or a metal material. The shape of the adjustment member 3H is a cone with a rounded apex. However, the shape of the adjustment member 3H may be a pyramidal shape with a rounded apex. The adjustment member 3H has a base. The diameter (or maximum width) of the base of the adjustment member 3H is shorter than the height of the adjustment member 3H (distance between the base and the apex).

[0085] The adjustment member 3G is positioned between the elastic member 21 and the fixing member 5A, or between the substrate 23 and the fixing member 5A. Embodiment 6 illustrates the case where the adjustment member 3H is positioned between the substrate 23 and the fixing member 5A (see Figure 17). In Embodiment 6, the height direction of the adjustment member 3H intersects (orthogonal in the example of Figure 17) with the thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23.

[0086] The adjustment member 3H transitions from the first state to the second state when its orientation changes. For example, the adjustment member 3H transitions from the first state to the second state when its orientation is changed by the user of the pressure-sensitive element 1 or by a worker performing maintenance or repair on the pressure-sensitive element 1.

[0087] In the thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23, the length of the adjustment member 3H in the second state is longer than the length of the adjustment member 3H in the first state. In Embodiment 6, the first state of the adjustment member 3H is when the height direction of the adjustment member 3H intersects with the thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 18, the second state of the adjustment member 3H is when the height direction of the adjustment member 3H is aligned with the thickness direction of the substrate 23. In the example in Figure 17, the bottom surface of the adjustment member 3H is in contact with the second surface 232 of the substrate 23.

[0088] Figure 17 illustrates the connection part 2 when, for example, the elastic force of the fixing member 5A decreases due to aging, and the state of the adjustment member 3H is the first state. Figure 18 also illustrates the connection part 2 when the adjustment member 3H transitions from the first state to the second state due to a change in the orientation of the adjustment member 3H by the user of the pressure-sensitive element 1 or by a worker performing maintenance or repair on the pressure-sensitive element 1, as shown in Figure 17. The thickness T1 in Figure 17 is the thickness between the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 when the adjustment member 3H is in the first state. The thickness T2 in Figure 18 is the thickness between the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 when the adjustment member 3H is in the second state. In the thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23, the length of the adjustment member 3H in the second state is longer than the length of the adjustment member 3H in the first state. In other words, as the adjustment member 3H transitions from the first state to the second state, the elastic force of the fixing member 5A increases, and the contact pressure between the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 increases, so the thickness T2 becomes thinner than the thickness T1.

[0089] As described above, according to the pressure-sensitive element 1 (or pressure-sensitive element system) of Embodiment 6, the elastic force of the fixing member 5A can be adjusted depending on the state of the adjustment member 3H. This makes it possible to increase the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22, thereby stabilizing the electrical connection. Furthermore, according to the pressure-sensitive element 1 of Embodiment 6, the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22 can be increased by changing the orientation of the adjustment member 3H, making it easy to adjust the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22.

[0090] (Embodiment 7) As shown in Figures 19 and 20, the connection portion 2 of the pressure-sensitive element 1 in Embodiment 7 differs from the pressure-sensitive element 1 in Embodiment 1 in that it has an adjustment member 3E instead of the first thread 31 and the second thread 32.

[0091] The adjustment member 3E is made of a synthetic resin material or a metal material.

[0092] The adjustment member 3E has a base portion 36 and a pair of protrusions 37.

[0093] The base portion 36 is cylindrical in shape. However, the base portion 36 may also be rectangular or flat. The lower surface of the base portion 36 is in contact with the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21.

[0094] A pair of protrusions 37 project from the lower surface of the base 36 along the thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23. Each of the pair of protrusions 37 has a first claw portion 34 and a second claw portion 33 arranged to be aligned along the thickness direction D3. The first claw portion 34 and the second claw portion 33 constitute a snap-fit ​​mechanism 35.

[0095] The pair of protrusions 37 are inserted into the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 from the elastic member 21 side, along the thickness direction D3 of the substrate 23. In Embodiment 7, the pair of protrusions 37 penetrate the elastic member 21, the first electrode 11, and the third electrode 22 along the thickness direction D3.

[0096] At least one of the first claw portion 34 and the second claw portion 33 is hooked onto the substrate 23. In the example in Figure 19, the first claw portion 34 is hooked onto the recess 233 of the substrate 23, and the second claw portion 33 is hooked onto the second surface 232 of the substrate 23. In the example in Figure 20, the first claw portion 34 is hooked onto the second surface 232 of the substrate 23. The first distance between the base portion 36 and the first claw portion 34 in the thickness direction D3 is shorter than the second distance between the base portion 36 and the second claw portion 33 in the thickness direction D3.

[0097] The first state of the adjustment member 3E is when the insertion depth of the pair of protrusions 37 of the adjustment member 3E with respect to the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 is relatively shallow, and the second state of the adjustment member 3E is when the insertion depth is relatively deep. In the second state, when the insertion depth is relatively deep, the pressure exerted by the base 36 of the adjustment member 3E on the elastic member 21 increases, and the contact pressure between the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 increases.

[0098] Here, if the tip of the protrusion 37 is not located below the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 in both the first and second states, the first state is when the distance between the tip of the protrusion 37 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 is relatively long, and the second state is when the distance between the tip of the protrusion 37 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 is relatively short. Also, if the tip of the protrusion 37 is located below the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 in only one of the first and second states, the first state is when the tip of the protrusion 37 does not protrude from the second surface 232 of the substrate 23, and the second state is when the tip of the protrusion 37 protrudes from the second surface 232 of the substrate 23. Also, if the tip of the protrusion 37 is located below the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 in both the first and second states, the first state is when the amount of protrusion of the protrusion 37 from the second surface 232 is relatively small, and the second state is when the amount of protrusion is relatively large.

[0099] In Embodiment 7, the first state of the adjustment member 3E is when the first claw portion 34 is not engaged with the substrate 23 (see Figure 19), and the second state of the adjustment member 3E is when the first claw portion 34 is engaged with the substrate 23.

[0100] Figure 19 illustrates the connection portion 2 when the adjustment member 3E is in the first state. Figure 20 illustrates the connection portion 2 when the adjustment member 3E is inserted deeper by the user of the pressure-sensitive element 1 or by a worker performing maintenance or repair on the pressure-sensitive element 1, and the adjustment member 3E transitions from the first state to the second state. The thickness T1 in Figure 19 is the thickness between the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 when the adjustment member 3E is in the first state. The thickness T2 in Figure 20 is the thickness between the second surface 212 of the elastic member 21 and the second surface 232 of the substrate 23 when the adjustment member 3E is in the second state. As the adjustment member 3E is inserted deeper, the contact pressure between the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 increases, so the thickness T2 becomes thinner than the thickness T1.

[0101] As described above, since the adjustment member 3E has a snap-fit ​​mechanism 35, the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22 can be increased by increasing the insertion depth of the adjustment member 3E into the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23, thereby stabilizing the electrical connection. In the pressure-sensitive element 1 of Embodiment 7, the contact pressure between the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22 can be increased by increasing the insertion depth of the adjustment member 3E, making it easy to adjust the contact pressure.

[0102] In Embodiment 7, the adjustment member 3E is shown as penetrating the elastic member 21, the first electrode 11, the third electrode 22, and the substrate 23 along the thickness direction D3. However, it is sufficient that the adjustment member 3E penetrates at least the elastic member 21 along the thickness direction D3, and it is not essential that the adjustment member 3E penetrates the first electrode 11, the third electrode 22, and the substrate 23. For example, the adjustment member 3E may be inserted into the elastic member 21 and the substrate 23 in the vicinity of the first electrode 11 and the third electrode 22. Also, in Embodiment 7, the case where one adjustment member 3E is arranged for one first electrode 11 is shown as an example, but multiple adjustment members 3E may be arranged for one first electrode 11.

[0103] (Aspect) As is clear from the embodiments and modifications described above, the pressure-sensitive element (1) according to the first embodiment comprises a first electrode (11), a second electrode (12), a dielectric (13), and a connecting portion (2). The first electrode (11) is a conductive elastic body. The second electrode (12) is arranged to overlap with the first electrode (11). The dielectric (13) is interposed between the first electrode (11) and the second electrode (12). The connecting portion (2) is electrically connected to the first electrode (11). The connecting portion (2) has a third electrode (22), a substrate (23), an elastic member (21), and an adjustment member (3). The third electrode (22) is electrically connected to the first electrode (11). The substrate (23) fixes the third electrode (22). The elastic member (21) is positioned to sandwich the first electrode (11) between the third electrode (22) and the substrate (23) in the thickness direction (D3). The adjustment member (3) adjusts the contact pressure between the first electrode (11) and the third electrode (22). The adjustment member (3) has two states: a first state and a second state. When the adjustment member (3) transitions from the first state to the second state, the contact pressure increases.

[0104] According to this embodiment, the contact pressure between the first electrode (11) and the third electrode (22) can be adjusted.

[0105] In the pressure-sensitive element (1) according to the second embodiment, the adjusting member (first thread 31) is a heat-shrinkable thread-like member. When the adjusting member reaches the shrinkage temperature, it transitions from a first state to a second state by thermal shrinkage. The elastic member (21) and the substrate (23) are sutured together by the adjusting member.

[0106] According to this embodiment, the contact pressure between the first electrode (11) and the third electrode (22) can be easily adjusted.

[0107] In the pressure-sensitive element (1) according to the third embodiment, in the first embodiment, the adjustment member (3A) is a cylindrical member that is thermally shrinkable. The adjustment member (3A) surrounds at least a part of the elastic member (21) and at least a part of the substrate (23) when viewed from the axial direction of the adjustment member (3A). When the adjustment member (3A) reaches the shrinkage temperature, it transitions from the first state to the second state by thermal shrinkage.

[0108] According to this embodiment, the contact pressure between the first electrode (11) and the third electrode (22) can be easily adjusted.

[0109] In the pressure-sensitive element (1) according to the fourth embodiment, in the first embodiment, the elastic member (21) has a first surface (211) in contact with the first electrode (11) and a second surface (212) opposite to the first surface (211). The substrate (23) has a third surface (first surface 231) on which the third electrode (22) is fixed and a fourth surface (second surface 232) opposite to the third surface. The adjustment member (3B) is heat-shrinkable. The adjustment member (3B) has a shaft portion (31B), a first flange portion (32B), and a second flange portion (33B). The shaft portion (31B) penetrates the elastic member (21) and the substrate (23) along the thickness direction (D3) of the substrate (23). The shaft portion (31B) has a first end (301) in the thickness direction (D3) and a second end (302) opposite to the first end (301). The first flange portion (32B) protrudes from the first end (301) along the second surface (212) of the elastic member (21) and is in contact with the second surface (212) of the elastic member (21). The second flange portion (33B) protrudes from the second end (302) along the fourth surface of the substrate (23) and is in contact with the fourth surface of the substrate (23). The adjustment member (3B) transitions from the first state to the second state as the length of the shaft portion (31B) in the through direction increases.

[0110] According to this embodiment, the contact pressure between the first electrode (11) and the third electrode (22) can be easily adjusted.

[0111] In the pressure-sensitive element (1) according to the fifth embodiment, in the first embodiment, the adjustment member (3E) has a base (36) and a pair of protrusions (37). The base (36) is in contact with the elastic member (21). The pair of protrusions (37) protrude from the base (36) along the thickness direction (D3) of the substrate (23). Each of the pair of protrusions (37) has a first claw portion (34) and a second claw portion (33) arranged to be aligned along the thickness direction (D3). The pair of protrusions (37) are inserted into the elastic member (21) and the substrate (23) from the elastic member (21) side along the thickness direction (D3). At least one of the first claw portion (34) and the second claw portion (33) is hooked onto the substrate (23). The first distance between the base (36) and the first claw portion (34) in the thickness direction (D3) is shorter than the second distance between the base (36) and the second claw portion (33) in the thickness direction (D3). The first state is when the insertion depth of the pair of protrusions (37) into the elastic member (21) and the substrate (23) is relatively shallow, and the second state is when the insertion depth is relatively deep.

[0112] According to this embodiment, the contact pressure between the first electrode (11) and the third electrode (22) can be easily adjusted.

[0113] In the pressure-sensitive element (1) according to the sixth embodiment, the connection portion (2) further comprises a fixing member (5; 5A) in the first embodiment. The fixing member (5; 5A) suppresses displacement of the elastic member (21), the first electrode (11), and the substrate (23) in both directions: perpendicular to the thickness direction (D3) of the substrate (23) and in the thickness direction (D3).

[0114] In the pressure-sensitive element (1) according to the seventh embodiment, the fixing member (5A) is a cylindrical member as in the sixth embodiment. The fixing member (5A) surrounds at least a part of the elastic member (21) and at least a part of the substrate (23) when viewed from the axial direction of the fixing member (5A). The adjustment member (3G) is disposed between the elastic member (21) and the fixing member (5A), or between the substrate (23) and the fixing member (5A). The adjustment member (3G) transitions from a first state to a second state by changing the orientation of the adjustment member (3G). In the thickness direction (D3) of the substrate (23), the length of the adjustment member (3G) in the second state is longer than the length of the adjustment member (3G) in the first state.

[0115] According to this embodiment, the contact pressure between the first electrode (11) and the third electrode (22) can be easily adjusted.

[0116] In the pressure-sensitive element (1) according to the eighth embodiment, in any of the first to seventh embodiments, the connection portion (2) further comprises a plurality of conductive members (4A). Each of the plurality of conductive members (4A) is hemispherical in shape. Each of the plurality of conductive members (4A) has a bottom surface (41A). Each of the plurality of conductive members (4A) is positioned between the first electrode (11) and the third electrode (22) such that its bottom surface (41A) is in contact with the third electrode (22).

[0117] According to this embodiment, the electrical connection between the first electrode (11) and the third electrode (22) can be further stabilized.

[0118] In the pressure-sensitive element (1) according to the ninth embodiment, in any of the first to seventh embodiments, the connecting portion (2) further comprises a conductive adhesive (4B) disposed between the first electrode (11) and the third electrode (22).

[0119] According to this embodiment, the electrical connection between the first electrode (11) and the third electrode (22) can be further stabilized.

[0120] Configurations other than those in the first embodiment are not essential to the pressure-sensitive element (1) and can be omitted as appropriate. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0121] 1. Pressure-sensitive element 11 1st electrode 12 2nd electrode 13 Dielectrics 2 Connection part 21 Elastic members 211 Page 1 212 2nd page 22 3rd electrode 23 circuit boards 231 1st page (3rd page) 232 2nd page (4th page) 3, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3E, 3H adjustment parts 301 1st end 302 2nd end 31. First thread (adjustment member) 31B Shaft 32B 1st Tsuba 33B 2nd collar part 33 2nd claw part 34 1st claw part 36 Base 37 Protrusion 4A Conductive material 41A Bottom 4B Conductive Adhesive 5A Fixing member D3 Thickness direction

Claims

1. The first electrode is a conductive elastic material, A second electrode is positioned so as to overlap with the first electrode, A dielectric material interposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, The first electrode comprises a connection portion that is electrically connected to it, The aforementioned connection part is A third electrode electrically connected to the first electrode, The substrate on which the third electrode is fixed, An elastic member is arranged in the thickness direction of the substrate so as to sandwich the first electrode between the third electrode and the elastic member, An adjustment member for adjusting the contact pressure between the first electrode and the third electrode, It has, The state of the adjustment member can be divided into a first state and a second state. When the adjusting member transitions from the first state to the second state, the contact pressure increases. Pressure-sensitive element.

2. The aforementioned adjustment member is It is a heat-shrinkable, thread-like member. When the shrinkage temperature is reached, the state transitions from the first state to the second state due to thermal shrinkage. The elastic member and the substrate are sutured together by the adjustment member. The pressure-sensitive element according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned adjustment member is It is a cylindrical member that has heat shrinkage properties. The adjusting member surrounds at least a portion of the elastic member and at least a portion of the substrate when viewed from the axial direction of the adjusting member. When the shrinkage temperature is reached, the state transitions from the first state to the second state due to thermal shrinkage. The pressure-sensitive element according to claim 1.

4. The elastic member has a first surface in contact with the first electrode and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The substrate has a third surface on the side where the third electrode is fixed, and a fourth surface on the opposite side from the third surface. The aforementioned adjustment member is It has heat shrinkability, The elastic member and the shaft portion that penetrates the substrate along the thickness direction of the substrate and has a first end in the thickness direction and a second end opposite to the first end, A first flange portion protrudes from the first end along the second surface of the elastic member and is in contact with the second surface of the elastic member, A second flange portion protrudes from the second end along the fourth surface of the substrate and is in contact with the fourth surface of the substrate, It has, When the adjustment member reaches the shrinkage temperature, it transitions from the first state to the second state by thermal shrinkage. The pressure-sensitive element according to claim 1.

5. The aforementioned adjustment member is The base portion in contact with the elastic member, A pair of protrusions extending from the base along the thickness direction of the substrate, It has, Each of the pair of protrusions has a first claw portion and a second claw portion arranged to be aligned along the thickness direction, The pair of protrusions are inserted into the elastic member and the substrate from the elastic member side along the thickness direction. At least one of the first claw portion and the second claw portion is hooked onto the substrate, The first distance between the base and the first claw in the thickness direction is shorter than the second distance between the base and the second claw in the thickness direction. The first state is when the insertion depth of the pair of protrusions into the elastic member and the substrate is relatively shallow, and the second state is when the insertion depth is relatively deep. The pressure-sensitive element according to claim 1.

6. The connecting portion further includes a fixing member that suppresses displacement of the elastic member, the first electrode, and the substrate in a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the substrate, and in both directions of the thickness direction. The pressure-sensitive element according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned fixing member is It is a cylindrical member, The fixing member surrounds at least a portion of the elastic member and at least a portion of the substrate when viewed from the axial direction of the fixing member. The aforementioned adjustment member is It is disposed between the elastic member and the fixing member, or between the substrate and the fixing member. The adjustment member transitions from the first state to the second state when the orientation of the adjustment member changes. In the thickness direction of the substrate, the length of the adjustment member in the second state is longer than the length of the adjustment member in the first state. The pressure-sensitive element according to claim 6.

8. The aforementioned connection portion further comprises a plurality of conductive members, Each of the aforementioned plurality of conductive members has a hemispherical shape. Each of the plurality of conductive members has a bottom surface, Each of the plurality of conductive members is positioned between the first electrode and the third electrode such that its bottom surface is in contact with the third electrode. A pressure-sensitive element according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The connecting portion further comprises a conductive adhesive disposed between the first electrode and the third electrode. A pressure-sensitive element according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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