Capacitive Touch Detection Using Segmented Electrode Potentials

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing input detection systems face difficulties in detecting input support devices on self-electrostatic capacitance-type touch panels due to the same drive signal being supplied to multiple detection electrodes, making it challenging to differentiate the input support device from other objects.

Innovation Solution

An input detection system with a detection device featuring a plurality of detection electrodes and an input support device with a first and second electrode on a concentric circle, where the first electrode receives a reference potential and the second electrode receives a drive signal, allowing for capacitive coupling and accurate detection of the input support device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the same drive signal is supplied to multiple detection electrodes in a self-electrostatic capacitance-type touch panel, then the touch panel can detect changes in electrostatic capacitance, but it becomes difficult to differentiate the input support device from other objects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidsignal differentiation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The detection electrodes are segmented into two distinct groups: first detection electrodes supplied with a reference potential and second detection electrodes supplied with a drive signal. This segmentation allows the system to differentiate between objects by comparing capacitance changes relative to the reference potential, thereby resolving the inability to distinguish the input support device from other objects while maintaining detection accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the electrical parameter (potential) supplied to different detection electrodes. By supplying a reference potential to first detection electrodes and a drive signal to second detection electrodes, the system creates distinct electrical conditions that enable differentiation of the input support device based on its capacitive coupling characteristics, thus improving signal differentiation without sacrificing detection precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If the input support device has electrodes arranged on a concentric circle, then the structure enables rotational input detection, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverotational input detectionVSAvoidelectrode configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The concentric circular electrode configuration serves multiple functions: it enables detection of rotational movements, maintains capacitive coupling with the input support device, and works within the existing self-electrostatic capacitance detection framework. By making the electrode arrangement multi-functional, the system achieves rotational input detection without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The first electrode is supplied with a reference potential that creates an equipotential region, facilitating stable capacitive coupling with the input support device. This equipotential approach simplifies the detection of rotational movements by providing a consistent reference frame, thereby reducing the complexity associated with the concentric circular configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #12Equipotentiality

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 system effectively detects the input support device by differentiating the self-electrostatic capacitance changes between the first and second electrodes, enhancing detection accuracy and resolving the issue of overlapping signals.

Implementation Method 1

Japanese Patent Nos. 6342105 and 6532631 describe an input support device that is placed on a touch panel configured to detect change in electrostatic capacitance

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSelf-electrostatic capacitance: Capacitance

Implementation Method 2

a coupling portion that electrically couples the first electrode and the second electrode

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitive coupling: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS11868550B2Input detection system
Publication Date: 2024.01.09 MAGNOLIA WHITE CORP
  • US11868550B2 patent drawing
  • US11868550B2 patent drawing
  • US11868550B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An input detection system includes a detection device including a plurality of detection electrodes arrayed in a detection region, and an input support device including a first electrode, a second electrode provided so as to be movable on a concentric circle about a rotating axis overlapping with the first electrode, and a coupling portion that electrically couples the first electrode and the second electrode. A position of the rotating axis of the input support device is fixed to the detection region of the detection device, and a reference potential is supplied to the detection electrode corresponding to the first electrode and a drive signal is supplied to the detection electrode corresponding to the second electrode.