Detection Device With Electrode Gaps for Faster Zero-Force Sensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing detection devices take time for the sensor layer to return to its original shape after force release, leading to delayed detection of zero force application due to prolonged conductive particle contact.

Innovation Solution

A detection device design with a first substrate and sensor layer configuration that includes a gap between the sensor layer and detection electrode, supported by a common electrode protrusion, allowing quick disengagement upon force release.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the sensor layer is placed in direct contact with both the common electrode and detection electrode, then electrical coupling is established for force detection, but the sensor layer takes time to return to original shape causing delayed detection of zero force application

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidresponse time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The common electrode is divided into two distinct parts: a first common electrode in contact with the sensor layer for maintaining electrical coupling during force application, and a second common electrode separated from the sensor layer by a gap for enabling rapid signal termination when force is released. This segmentation allows the sensor layer to maintain stable contact for accurate measurement while avoiding the time delay caused by complete adhesion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A gap structure is introduced as an intermediary element between the sensor layer and the second common electrode. This gap acts as a mediator that allows electrical coupling to be established when needed (when the sensor layer deforms toward it) while preventing permanent adhesion, thus enabling rapid response when force is released without requiring the sensor layer to actively detach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If the sensor layer adheres completely to the electrode surface, then stable electrical coupling is maintained, but conductive particles remain in contact after force release delaying zero-force detection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical coupling stabilityVSAvoidzero-force detection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The common electrode is segmented into first and second portions with different contact characteristics. The first portion maintains stable adhesion for reliable signal acquisition during force application, while the second portion is positioned with a gap to prevent complete adhesion, ensuring that conductive particles can quickly lose contact when force is released, thereby improving zero-force detection reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Power

If the sensor layer is in full contact with the electrode, then maximum signal strength is achieved, but the body takes longer to return to original shape

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal strengthVSAvoidreturn time to original shape
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The common electrode is divided such that the first portion provides full contact for maximum signal strength during force application, while the second portion is separated by a gap. This allows the sensor layer to achieve optimal signal strength when needed while reducing the overall contact area, enabling faster return to original shape and quicker termination of electrical coupling when force is released.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 rapid detection of zero force application by breaking electrical coupling between electrodes quickly, enhancing response time and accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

When force is applied to the sensor layer, the body deforms, and the conductive particles come into contact with each other. As a result, the resistance of the sensor layer decreases

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectConductive particle contact: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

a first substrate having a first surface formed of an organic insulating layer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical insulation: Dielectric

Data Source

PatentUS20250290808A1Detection device
Publication Date: 2025.09.18 JAPAN DISPLAY INC
  • US20250290808A1 patent drawing
  • US20250290808A1 patent drawing
  • US20250290808A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A detection device includes: a first substrate having a first surface; and a sensor layer facing the first surface. The first substrate is provided with: a detection electrode on the first surface; a common electrode on the first surface and around the detection electrode; a transistor, a gate line, a signal line, and a reference potential line covered by an organic insulating layer; a first contact hole formed on the first surface and coupling the source electrode or the drain electrode of the transistor to the detection electrode; a second contact hole formed on the first surface and coupling the reference potential line to the common electrode; and a spacer provided between the first surface and the common electrode and making part of the common electrode protrude toward the sensor layer with respect to the detection electrode. The sensor layer is supported by the common electrode with a gap therebetween.