Angled Force Sensor Coupling for Stylus Cartridge Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge lies in designing a pen that accommodates a force sensor and ink cartridge configuration allowing for increased ink capacity while maintaining a compact form factor, enabling easy replacement of the cartridge without disturbing the force sensor, which is crucial for reliable force measurement in interactive paper systems.
Innovation Solution
The pen features a side-loading ink cartridge configuration with an enlarged middle section, allowing for increased ink capacity while the thinner ends support the nib and engage the force sensor, and a force transfer coupling that decouples the ink cartridge from the force sensor during replacement, minimizing potential damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the force sensor is mounted directly to the PCB with its plane parallel to the pen axis, then electrical connection is simplified and manufacturing is easier, but the cartridge cannot be removed without disturbing the force sensor
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly is segmented into a first coupling portion that interfaces with the cartridge and a second coupling portion that interfaces with the force sensor. This segmentation allows the cartridge to be removed independently from the force sensor, resolving the contradiction between easy manufacturing and ease of replacement.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the cartridge is made with a larger ink capacity, then the duration of action is extended, but the overall dimensions of the pen increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is designed with an enlarged middle section that extends in the radial dimension rather than increasing the longitudinal length. This allows increased ink capacity without increasing the pen's overall length, maintaining compact form factor while extending duration of action.
3Device complexity
If the cartridge is loaded from the end through the force sensor, then the structure is simplified, but the force sensor is vulnerable to damage during replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the cartridge and the force sensor. It provides a mechanical interface that allows cartridge replacement without direct manipulation of the force sensor, protecting the sensor from damage while maintaining structural simplicity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enhances the pen's ability to accurately measure forces applied during writing, supports handwriting recognition, and reduces the risk of damaging the force sensor during cartridge replacement, ensuring reliable operation and extended battery life.
Implementation Method 1
Force sensors, typically piezo-resistive, have a generally planar configuration with the load bearing member on one of the planar sides
Data Source
AI summary
A force sensor particularly suited for use in an electronic stylus that senses an applied force on its nib for recording pen strokes and handwriting recognition. The sensor has a load bearing member for receiving an input force to be sensed and associated circuitry for converting the input force into an output signal indicative of the input force. A coupling at least partially transmits the applied force to be the input force acting on the load bearing member. The force transfer coupling transferring the forces so that the applied force and the input force are not co-linear.