Electrode Array for Textiles via Layered Contact Pads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrode arrays for functional surfaces, particularly textiles, face challenges in optimizing the arrangement and contacting of electrode surfaces and contact pads to efficiently utilize available space and prevent short circuits, especially on flexible and large-area applications.
Innovation Solution
The electrode array consists of a first layer with electrode areas and a second layer with contact pads, where the electrode surface covers the contact pad, allowing for independent optimization of their functions and arrangement, with conductive yarn or threads used for electrical contacting and an insulating layer to prevent short circuits, enabling efficient and reliable contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If electrode surfaces and contact pads are arranged on the same layer, then the structure is simpler, but the surface area utilization is reduced and short circuits between adjacent electrodes cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-layer planar arrangement to a multi-layer three-dimensional structure. Electrode surfaces are arranged on a first layer while contact pads are positioned on a second layer below it, utilizing the vertical dimension to increase surface area utilization and prevent short circuits between adjacent electrodes.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode array is divided into functionally independent segments: the first layer contains electrode surfaces optimized for sensor functionality, while the second layer contains contact pads optimized for electrical connection. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each function without interference.
2Reliability
If contact pads are made larger to ensure reliable electrical contact, then the electrical connection is more reliable, but the surface area available for electrode arrays is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By moving contact pads to a separate lower layer, the patent eliminates the competition for surface area between contact pads and electrode surfaces. The vertical stacking allows contact pads to be sized appropriately for reliable electrical contact without reducing the horizontal surface area available for electrode arrays.
3Area of stationary object
If electrode surfaces are arranged close together to fill available space, then the surface area utilization increases, but the risk of short circuits between adjacent electrodes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses vertical stacking to separate electrode surfaces and contact pads into different layers. This dimensional separation allows electrode surfaces to be arranged close together on the first layer for maximum surface area utilization while preventing short circuits through the insulating barrier of the second layer.
4Area of stationary object
If a multi-layer structure is used to optimize electrode and contact pad arrangement, then surface area utilization and short circuit prevention are improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is segmented into distinct steps: first providing a first layer with electrode surfaces, then providing a second layer with contact pads, and finally establishing electrical connections between layers. This segmentation allows each layer to be manufactured and optimized independently before integration.
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
This configuration allows for a high degree of surface area utilization, simple and reliable electrical contacting, and prevention of unwanted interactions, resulting in a robust and efficient electrode array suitable for flexible surfaces like textiles.
Implementation Method 1
the contact pad and the electrode surface are contacted by means of a conductive yarn or thread
Implementation Method 2
an insulating layer to prevent short circuits
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an electrode array for functional surfaces, in particular for textiles, comprising a first layer and a second layer, wherein the first layer comprises at least one electrode surface and wherein the second layer comprises at least one contact pad, wherein the second layer is arranged below the first layer such that the electrode surface covers the contact pad, in particular completely, and wherein the contact pad electrically contacts the electrode surface by means of a through-hole connection.