Flex Sensor Input Switch for Direction and On-Off Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional load sensors can only output signals indicating the direction of manipulation but fail to provide signals for on and off states based on the manipulated amount, limiting their functionality in applications requiring directional and quantitative input.
Innovation Solution
An input device comprising a manipulating part with a movable member, a flex sensor to detect flexing, a switch to toggle between on and off states based on a predetermined flexing amount, and a signal processor to output control signals based on the sensor and switch outputs, enabling directional and quantitative signal output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional load sensor with strain gauges is used, then the device can output signals indicating manipulated direction, but it cannot output signals indicating on and off states based on manipulated amount
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a flex sensor and a switch into a single integrated sensor unit. The flex sensor detects the degree of manipulation (manipulated amount) while the switch detects the on/off state, merging multiple sensing functions into one component that outputs both types of signals simultaneously, thereby improving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated sensor unit serves multiple functions: it detects both the magnitude of manipulation (via flex sensor) and the state of manipulation (via switch), making it a multi-functional component that replaces what would traditionally require separate sensors, thus enhancing adaptability while controlling device complexity
2Measurement precision
If only a flex sensor is used to detect manipulation, then the device can measure manipulated amount, but it cannot determine on and off states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges a flex sensor (for continuous measurement) and a switch (for discrete state detection) into a single integrated unit. The flex sensor provides precise measurement of manipulation magnitude while the switch provides clear on/off state detection, and both functions operate simultaneously within the same component structure
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor output is segmented into two distinct signal types: a first signal from the flex sensor indicating manipulated amount, and a second signal from the switch indicating on/off state. This segmentation allows the system to process different types of information separately while originating from a single integrated sensor unit
3Adaptability or versatility
If a switch is added to detect on and off states, then the device can output state signals, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the switch structure with the flex sensor assembly, where the switch is positioned to be actuated by the same manipulating part that flexes the sensor. This integration allows the switch to share the mechanical structure and actuation mechanism with the flex sensor, adding state detection capability while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity
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 solution allows the input device to output signals indicating both the manipulated direction and on/off states, enhancing its functionality and usability in applications like vehicle control systems by providing a clear indication of the manipulated amount.
Implementation Method 1
a flex sensor disposed on the manipulating part and configured to detect flexing of the manipulating part
Data Source
AI summary
An input device includes an manipulating part, a movable member fixed to the manipulating part and having a rotating shaft, a fixing member configured to rotatably support the rotating shaft so that the movable member is rotatable, a flex sensor disposed on the manipulating part and configured to detect flexing of the manipulating part, a switch disposed on the movable member or the fixing member, pressed by a rotating operation of the movable member, and configured to switch between an on state and an off state when a flexing amount of the manipulating part reaches a predetermined amount, and a signal processor configured to output a control signal, based on a first output signal of the flex sensor, and a second output signal of the switch.