Capacitive Force Sensor With Elastic Nubs For Uniform Deflection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing force/touch input devices are limited in accurately and uniformly determining the position and intensity of applied force, which restricts their flexibility and usability.
Innovation Solution
A Z-sensor layer with through holes and an elastic tensile layer featuring raised structures (nubs) is used, where the nubs align with the centerline of each through hole, allowing for uniform deflection in response to applied force, enabling accurate interpolation of force data for precise coordinate determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional force/touch input devices are used, then basic force detection is achieved, but accuracy and uniformity of force measurement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating non-uniform structural features (protrusions and recesses) at specific locations within the flexible substrate. These localized structural variations enable different regions to deflect uniformly under force, with each region's deflection characteristics tailored to its specific position, thereby achieving both high measurement precision and reliability across the entire sensing surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible substrate is segmented into multiple discrete regions with distinct deflection characteristics. By dividing the sensing surface into localized zones with protrusions and recesses, the patent enables independent optimization of force response in each segment, improving overall measurement accuracy and uniformity while maintaining the flexibility of the entire structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If force detection capability is added to touch input devices, then input functionality is enhanced, but positioning accuracy of applied force deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality through position-dependent structural features where protrusions and recesses are strategically placed to create localized deflection zones. This enables the system to simultaneously detect force magnitude and precise location, as each region's deflection pattern provides information about both the applied force and its coordinate position, thereby enhancing adaptability without sacrificing positioning accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If uniform deflection is achieved through structural modifications, then force measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible substrate as a thin film structure that inherently provides the necessary deflection characteristics. By utilizing the natural properties of flexible materials and incorporating simple protrusion-recess patterns, the patent achieves uniform deflection and improved measurement precision without requiring complex mechanical structures, multiple layers, or sophisticated actuation mechanisms, thereby minimizing device complexity.
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 accuracy and uniformity of force data measurement, improving the usability and functionality of force-enabled input devices by allowing for precise detection of force coordinates and magnitudes.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic tensile layer having raised structures (nubs) overlaid on the Z-sensor layer with the nubs facing away from the through holes
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for operating a capacitive input device configured to sense input objects and their applied force in a sensing region includes a pliable component having an input surface and a first substrate including a first plurality of sensor electrodes. The device also includes a support substrate spaced apart from the pliable component; a second substrate having a second plurality of sensor electrodes and a plurality of apertures; and a spacing layer disposed between the pliable component and the support substrate and having a plurality of raised features aligned with and facing away from the apertures of the second substrate.