Capacitive Operating Switch with Single-Electrode Multi-Stage Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing capacitive operating devices require multiple electrodes, leading to increased complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A capacitive operating device utilizing a single electrode and two elastic members, a rubber dome and a metal dome, to detect multiple stages of operation based on capacitance changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple electrodes are used to detect multiple stages of pressing operations, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple electrodes into a single electrode by using two elastic members (first and second elastic members) that deform at different stages of pressing. The first elastic member detects initial pressing through its deformation, while the second elastic member detects full pressing, eliminating the need for multiple separate electrodes and their associated fixtures.
Solution Approach 2:
The single electrode is made universal by pairing it with multiple elastic members that perform different detection functions. The first elastic member serves as a preliminary detector for partial pressing, while the second elastic member serves as the primary detector for full pressing, allowing one electrode to handle multiple detection stages through the mechanical assistance of the elastic members.
2Measurement precision
If multiple electrodes and fixtures are used, then detection accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple detection functions into a single electrode system assisted by elastic members. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate electrodes and their fixtures, directly reducing the number of components that need to be manufactured, assembled, and calibrated, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while preserving detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic members act as intermediaries between the pressing force and the single electrode. They translate mechanical deformation into detectable changes that the single electrode can measure, allowing accurate detection of multiple pressing stages without requiring multiple electrodes, thus reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Device complexity
If a single electrode is used with elastic members, then device complexity is reduced, but detection of multiple stages may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection function across two elastic members with different deformation characteristics. The first elastic member is designed to deform at a certain pressing threshold, while the second elastic member deforms at a higher threshold. This segmentation allows a single electrode to detect multiple stages by measuring the sequential deformation of the elastic members, maintaining detection precision while simplifying the electrode configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic deformation of elastic members to enable stage detection. As pressing force increases, the elastic members deform dynamically in sequence - the first elastic member deforms initially, then the second elastic member deforms at higher force. This dynamic response allows the single electrode to capture multiple detection stages through time-sequenced capacitance changes.
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
Simplifies configuration and reduces costs while providing tactile feedback and accurate detection of multiple operation stages.
Implementation Method 1
an electrode provided on the substrate, the electrode generating capacitance with the second elastic member
Implementation Method 2
the first elastic member deforming so that the spaced portion moves toward the substrate as a result that the operating unit is pressed and operated
Data Source
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AI summary
An operating device of the present disclosure includes: an operating unit placed apart from a substrate and pressed and operated by a user; a first elastic member placed in abutment on the substrate and the operating unit therebetween, having a spaced portion formed apart from the substrate, and deforming so that the spaced portion moves toward the substrate as a result that the operating unit is pressed and operated; an electroconductive second elastic member on a surface facing the substrate of the spaced portion of the first elastic member, abutting on the substrate and deforming as a result that the operating unit is pressed and operated and the spaced portion moves toward the substrate; an electrode provided on the substrate and generating capacitance with the second elastic member; and a detecting unit detecting the capacitance generated on the electrode and accepting an operation corresponding to a detected capacitance value.