Capacitive Sensor Module Layout for Tight Vehicle Trim Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sensor modules are limited by size and design, making it difficult to integrate them into vehicle components such as behind trim elements of B-pillar or C-pillar, where space is constrained, and they lack flexibility in actuation surface shape and sensitivity.
Innovation Solution
A sensor module comprising a flat sensor electrode and shield electrode separated by an elastic dielectric intermediate layer, with an elastically deformable cover and separate electronics unit connected via flexible conductors, allowing for flexible installation and a compact, shape-adjustable design that can be attached to any vehicle location, including areas where conventional sensors cannot fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional sensor modules are integrated into vehicle components, then they can detect actuations, but they are limited by size constraints and cannot be installed in locations with limited space such as behind trim elements of B-pillar or C-pillar
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is divided into separate functional units: a sensor unit with electrodes and a separate electronics unit. This segmentation allows the sensor unit to be made compact and installed in space-constrained locations, while the electronics unit can be positioned elsewhere. The electrical connection between units enables flexible installation arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor electrode and shield electrode are designed as flat, planar structures spaced apart by an intermediate layer, creating a capacitive sensor that operates in a thin profile. This dimensional approach allows the sensor to function effectively with minimal installation space.
2Area of moving object
If the sensor electrode and electronics are integrated on a circuit board, then the sensor functions properly, but the design lacks flexibility in shape and actuation surface area
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor electrode is separated from the electronics unit and connected via electrical conductors. This allows the sensor electrode to be designed as a large-area flexible structure independent of the electronics, enabling larger actuation surfaces without increasing integration complexity on a single circuit board.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor electrode can be formed from flexible conductive materials such as metal foil or conductive film, allowing it to be shaped and sized independently. This flexibility enables the actuation surface to have any required shape and area without being constrained by rigid circuit board geometry.
3Measurement precision
If the sensor unit is made compact for flexible installation, then it can be installed in constrained spaces, but the sensitivity and data quality may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit is separated from the electronics unit, allowing the sensor unit to be compact for easy installation while the electronics unit can be optimized for sensitivity and processing capabilities. This segmentation enables both compact form factor and high measurement precision to coexist.
Solution Approach 2:
Electrical conductors serve as intermediaries connecting the compact sensor unit to the electronics unit. This allows the sensor unit to remain small and installable in constrained spaces while maintaining full electrical connectivity for sensitive measurements and data transmission.
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 larger actuation areas with enhanced sensitivity and adjustable shape, allowing installation in previously inaccessible spaces, such as behind vehicle trim elements, while maintaining sensitivity and adaptability to environmental changes.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic, dielectric intermediate layer
Implementation Method 2
detect changes in an electrical capacitance and/or the electrical field between the sensor electrode and the shield electrode
Implementation Method 3
apply an electrical voltage to the sensor electrode and the shielding electrode, so that an electric field is formed between the sensor electrode and the shielding electrode
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a sensor module (1) comprising: - a sensor unit (2) comprising a planar sensor electrode (5) and a planar shield electrode (6) which are spaced apart from each other by an elastic, dielectric intermediate layer (7), and an elastically deformable aperture (8) for covering the electrodes (5, 6), and - an electronics unit (3), wherein the sensor unit (2) and the electronics unit (3) are designed as separate units and are electrically connected to each other by electrical conductors.