Capacitive Input Device Movable Electrode Position Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current input devices for electronic apparatuses, such as smartphones and tablets, lack distinguishable advantages compared to using body parts for interaction, limiting the variety of functions that can be controlled through touch screens.
Innovation Solution
An input device with a user manipulator that includes a movable member, first and second electrodes, and a dielectric material, generating different signals based on position changes, allowing for various control operations through capacitance variations, and a pen pressure module for outputting signals based on applied pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional touch screen is used without additional input devices, then the device structure remains simple, but the variety of controllable functions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The input device integrates multiple functions including a movable member for position detection, a pressing member for pressure sensitivity, and signal generation capabilities, allowing a single device to perform diverse control operations such as scrolling, selecting, and pressure-based commands
Solution Approach 2:
The input device incorporates movable and rotatable components that can dynamically change position and orientation, enabling the generation of different signals based on the degree and direction of movement, thereby expanding control versatility without requiring multiple separate devices
2Measurement precision
If an input device with movable member and electrodes is used, then signal variety and control precision are improved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical position detection mechanisms with a capacitive sensing system using electrodes and a movable member, where position is detected through changes in capacitance rather than mechanical switches or encoders, thereby improving precision while managing structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The input device detects position changes by measuring variations in capacitance parameters between electrodes and the movable member, translating physical movement into electrical signal changes that provide precise position information without requiring complex mechanical measurement systems
3Ease of operation
If the movable member is exposed externally for manipulation, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability may be reduced due to external exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The movable member is partially inserted into the case with a portion exposed for manipulation, creating a nested structure where the exposed portion is protected by the case housing, thereby maintaining ease of operation while providing structural protection and improving reliability
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
Enables more convenient and efficient control of electronic apparatuses by varying signal outputs and capacitance, allowing for adjustments in writing trajectories and other functions based on user manipulation, enhancing interaction capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a circuit configured to generate different signals according to a position change of the user manipulator. The user manipulator includes a movable member configured to be movable on the case, a first electrode fixed within the case, and a second electrode disposed on the movable member so as to be opposite to the first electrode in which an opposed area of the second electrode opposing the first electrode is varied according to the movement of the movable member
Implementation Method 2
The user manipulator may further include a dielectric material disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode
Implementation Method 3
the user manipulator may further include an elastic member configured to return the movable member back to an initial position when the force applied on the movable member is lifted off while the movable member is moved within the hole
Data Source
AI summary
An input device and an electronic apparatus are provided. The input device includes a case, a user manipulator disposed on the case, and a circuit configured to generate different signals according to a position change of the user manipulator. The user manipulator includes a movable member configured to be movable on the case, a first electrode fixed within the case, and a second electrode disposed on the movable member so as to be opposite to the first electrode in which an opposed area of the second electrode opposing the first electrode is varied according to the movement of the movable member.