Capacitive Input Panel for Distinguishing Touch and Push Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional input operation devices are large due to their mechanical configuration, which limits their compactness and ability to distinguish among multiple operations effectively.
Innovation Solution
An input operation device incorporating an operation member, a push switch, an electrostatic detection sensor with multiple electrostatic electrodes, and a microcontroller unit that uses electrostatic capacitance detection to differentiate between symbol touches and push operations, allowing for a compact design that distinguishes among various inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple individual push-button switches are arranged on a base to enable individual and simultaneous operations, then operation versatility is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual push-button switches into a single operation button with multiple press positions. The operation button includes a first press position for individual operation and a second press position for simultaneous operation, eliminating the need for separate switches while maintaining both individual and simultaneous operation capabilities. This consolidation directly reduces device size while preserving operation versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation button is designed to perform multiple functions: it can be pressed at the first press position to activate individual push-button switches, pressed at the second press position to activate all switches simultaneously, and tilted to select between different operation modes. This multi-functionality allows a single component to replace multiple specialized components, reducing overall device size.
2Measurement precision
If electrostatic detection sensors are added to detect finger approach for operation differentiation, then operation differentiation accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical detection mechanisms with electrostatic detection sensors that utilize the electrical properties of the human body. The sensors detect changes in electrostatic capacitance when a finger approaches or contacts the operation button, enabling differentiation between various operation types (individual press, simultaneous press, tilting) without requiring complex mechanical structures. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while improving detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrostatic detection sensor acts as an intermediary between the operator's finger and the control system. Instead of directly mechanical contact detection, the sensor detects electrostatic field changes caused by the finger's proximity, providing accurate operation differentiation with minimal mechanical complexity. The sensor translates physical interaction into electrical signals for precise control.
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
The device achieves compactness and effective operation differentiation by using electrostatic capacitance detection to distinguish between symbol touches and push operations, reducing the number of mechanical components and enhancing detection accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
an electrostatic detection sensor that includes a plurality of electrostatic electrodes provided on a surface of the panel opposite to the operation surface of the panel, in an area on the panel in which the symbols are arranged in a plan view, the electrostatic detection sensor being configured to detect an electrostatic capacitance upon approach of a finger of the operator for each of the electrostatic electrodes
Data Source
AI summary
An input operation device includes: an operation member to be pushed by an operator at a plurality of press positions of the operation member; a push switch to be in an on state from an off state by pushing; a panel that includes an operation surface that is to be touched by the operator and on which a plurality of symbols are arranged; an electrostatic detection sensor that includes a plurality of electrostatic electrodes provided on a surface of the panel opposite to the operation surface of the panel in an area on the panel in which the symbols are arranged in a plan view, the electrostatic detection sensor to detect an electrostatic capacitance upon approach of a finger of the operator for each of the electrostatic electrodes; and a determiner to determine which of the operation member and the symbols has been operated by the operator.