Capacitive Switch Merging Mechanical and Capacitive Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multifunction switches face increased structural complexity and manufacturing costs due to the need for complex electrode pattern formation and IC packaging, limiting their ability to output electrical signals for multifunctional execution in response to user touch and push inputs.
Innovation Solution
A capacitive switch design featuring a switch structure with a first electrode pattern, a substrate with a second electrode pattern and integrated circuit unit, and an elastic body, which generates output signals by detecting changes in capacitance caused by user inputs, reducing the need for physical contacts and simplifying the manufacturing process through laser direct structuring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional multifunction switches use mixed mechanical and capacitive switch structures, then multiple functions can be achieved, but structural complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges mechanical switch and capacitive switch structures into a single integrated switch body, where the switch structure contains both a mechanical switch unit with contact and a capacitive switch unit with electrode patterns. This allows multiple functions to be achieved within one unified structure rather than requiring separate mechanical and capacitive switches, thereby reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining multifunctionality
Solution Approach 2:
The switch structure is segmented into distinct functional units: a mechanical switch unit with contact for mechanical switching functions, and a capacitive switch unit with first and second electrode patterns for capacitive sensing functions. This segmentation allows each unit to perform its specific function independently while being integrated within the same switch body, enabling multifunctional execution without excessive structural complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional multifunction switches implement both mechanical and capacitive switch structures, then multiple functions can be achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical and capacitive switch structures into a single integrated switch body that can be manufactured as one unit. The electrode patterns are formed directly on the switch structure using laser direct structuring or injection molding processes, eliminating the need for separate manufacturing and assembly of mechanical and capacitive switch components. This integration significantly reduces manufacturing cost while maintaining multifunctional capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional complex electrode pattern formation processes with laser direct structuring technology. The laser beam directly writes the electrode patterns onto the switch structure without requiring photolithography, etching, or other complex semiconductor manufacturing processes. This substitution dramatically simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces manufacturing cost while enabling precise electrode pattern formation for capacitive sensing functions
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional capacitive switches use complex electrode pattern formation and IC packaging, then multifunctional execution is achieved, but process complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex IC packaging processes with direct integration of the electrode patterns onto the switch structure. The electrode patterns are formed using laser direct structuring or injection molding, creating a monolithic structure that eliminates the need for separate IC packages, wire bonding, and complex assembly processes. This substitution dramatically reduces process complexity while enabling multifunctional execution through integrated mechanical and capacitive switching capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the electrode patterns, switch structure, and housing into a single integrated component. The first and second electrode patterns are formed directly on the switch structure, which is then housed in a single assembly step. This integration eliminates multiple separate manufacturing and assembly processes, reducing process complexity while maintaining the ability to execute multiple functions through the combined mechanical and capacitive switching units
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 capacitive switch reduces structural complexity and manufacturing costs while maintaining durability, enabling simplified production and effective multifunctional execution without contact wear, allowing for distinct differentiation between touch and push inputs.
Implementation Method 1
the integrated circuit unit generates a first output signal by detecting a change in capacitance caused by a user touch input operation through the first electrode pattern, the elastic body, and the second electrode pattern
Implementation Method 2
the user push input operation involves a physical change of the elastic body
Data Source
AI summary
A capacitive switch according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a switch structure having a first electrode pattern; a substrate having a second electrode pattern and an integrated circuit unit; and an elastic body interposed between the switch structure and the substrate, wherein the integrated circuit unit generates a first output signal by detecting a change in capacitance caused by a user touch input operation through the first electrode pattern, the elastic body, and the second electrode pattern, and generates a second output signal by detecting a change in capacitance caused by a user push input operation.