Capacitive Touch Simulator Using Conductive Rubber Pad

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices that provide autonomous input to capacitive touch screens often rely on external moving parts, generating noise and restricting portability due to mechanical components and external wiring, making them unsuitable for use when the user is not present or needs to move the device.

Innovation Solution

An electronic device with an external plastic case that clips onto a capacitive touch screen, using an internal rechargeable battery and electronically controlled components to simulate touch inputs without external moving parts, featuring a conductive rubber pad and relay to mimic human interaction, with LED indicators for status feedback and programmable touch activation rates.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If mechanical motor driven or solenoid driven arm/finger devices are used to provide autonomous touch inputs, then automated input capability is achieved, but noise is generated and portability is restricted due to external moving parts and wiring

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated input capabilityVSAvoidnoise

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical motor-driven or solenoid-driven systems with an electronic solution using a rechargeable battery, circuit board, and electronically controlled conductive element. This substitution eliminates moving parts that generate noise while maintaining automated touch input capability through electronic control of the conductive rubber pad's contact with the capacitive screen.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Extent of automation

If mechanical motor driven or solenoid driven arm/finger devices are used to provide autonomous touch inputs, then automated input capability is achieved, but portability is restricted due to external moving parts and wiring

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated input capabilityVSAvoidportability

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent integrates the battery, circuit board, conductive element, and control electronics into a single unified device that attaches to the capacitive touch screen device. This merging of components into one portable unit eliminates the need for external wiring and moving parts, enabling the system to be easily transported and used in different locations while maintaining automated input functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Use of energy by moving object

If external wires and power leads are used to power the touch simulation device, then power supply is achieved, but usage is restricted and portability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower supplyVSAvoidusage freedom

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service power system where the device carries its own rechargeable battery and charging circuitry. The battery can be recharged by connecting to the host device's charging port when not in use, allowing the device to be self-powered during operation without requiring external power sources or continuous connection to power outlets, thereby enabling unrestricted portable usage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 controlled, noise-free, and portable autonomous touch inputs on capacitive touch screens, allowing the device to remain active without user presence and maintain operation during movement, while minimizing noise and enhancing usability through internal power and sleek design.

Implementation Method 1

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBattery (electricity): Battery (electricity)

Implementation Method 2

The device [2] also provides a route to dissipate an electrical charge from the capacitance touch screen and therefore creates voltage drop which is detected by the capacitance touch screen devices input controller

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrostatic discharge: Electrostatic Discharge

Implementation Method 3

the microprocessor [12] or similar electronic control system, is used to operate an electronically controlled switch element such as a relay [13]

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRelay: Relay

Implementation Method 4

When the unit is turned on or off the user is given feedback from the microprocessor by a number of status Light emitting diodes (LED) indicators

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight emitting diode: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentUS10310677B2Electronic finger touch simulator for capacitive touch screen devices

Publication Date: 2019.06.04 STEVENS ANDREW

AI summary

Fully stand alone and portable capacitive touch screen finger touch simulator clips onto for attachment member for attaching to any capacitive touch screen device, a touch screen engaging conductive material which is provided with an electronically controlled electrical charge through programmed solid state electronics with rechargeable on board battery and no external moving parts—which simulates finger touch.