Capacitive Sensor for 3D Surfaces Using Segmented Electrodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional capacitive touch sensors face difficulties in being disposed over three-dimensional objects without requiring substantial modifications in software algorithms and electrode alignment, as they are typically designed for planar surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A planar capacitive touch sensor configuration that can be folded to conform to three-dimensional shapes, featuring a substrate with continuous and segmented electrodes connected by traces, allowing for alignment of capacitive measurement nodes that maintain linearity when applied to curved surfaces, enabling the use of existing detection and tracking algorithms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional planar capacitive sensor is disposed over a three-dimensional object, then the sensor can detect objects on curved surfaces, but the rows and columns will misalign requiring substantial modification of detection algorithms
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is divided into multiple modular sensor elements that can be independently positioned and aligned on the three-dimensional surface. Each sensor element contains its own electrode patterns and can be separately calibrated, allowing the overall sensor array to conform to curved surfaces while maintaining proper row and column alignment within each module.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a strictly two-dimensional planar sensor array to a three-dimensional configurable arrangement. Sensor elements can be positioned at different heights and angles to match the curvature of the target surface, while the electrode patterns within each element maintain their planar geometry for consistent detection algorithms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the sensor material is folded to conform to curved surfaces, then the sensor can be applied to three-dimensional objects, but gaps or creases may form in the sensor material
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor utilizes flexible substrate materials and thin-film electrode structures that can bend and conform to curved surfaces without creating gaps or creases. The flexible nature of the substrate allows it to adapt to the target surface geometry while maintaining continuous electrical connections between all sensor elements.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sensor elements are nested or tiled together in a configuration that allows them to collectively conform to three-dimensional surfaces. The elements are arranged and connected in a way that eliminates gaps between them, with each element potentially containing smaller sub-elements that can independently adjust to local surface variations.
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 accurate detection and tracking of objects on three-dimensional surfaces using existing algorithms, reducing development costs and maintaining high sensitivity and resolution, while avoiding gaps or creases in the sensor material.
Implementation Method 1
When a pointing object creates imbalance because of capacitive coupling when the object approaches or touches a touch surface (the sensing area 18 of the touchpad 10), a change in capacitance occurs on the electrodes 12, 14.
Data Source
AI summary
A touch sensor may include a substrate material, a continuous electrode arranged along a dimension of the substrate material, a segmented electrode transversely arranged with respect to the continuous electrode and wherein the segmented electrode is divided into multiple segments that are spaced apart at a distance from each other, and at least one trace that electrically connects the multiple segments.