Flexible Thermoelectric Module Cell for Touch Sensors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Capacitive touch sensors are prone to malfunctions due to external environmental factors and require a novel operating principle, with a need for a flexible thermoelectric module cell that can provide adjustable voltage and power for various designs.

Innovation Solution

A flexible thermoelectric module cell comprising a polymer main body with siloxane-based structural units, vinyl group-containing photopolymerizable acrylate-based compounds, and isocyanate-based compounds, alternately inserted with block p-type and n-type thermoelectric elements connected via metal electrodes, allowing for power control and mechanical flexibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If capacitive touch sensor is used, then touch sensing function is achieved, but sensor is sensitive to external environmental factors causing frequent malfunctions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetouch sensor reliabilityVSAvoidexternal environmental sensitivity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the capacitive sensing mechanism with a thermoelectric mechanism based on the Seebeck effect. Instead of detecting changes in electrical capacitance that are sensitive to environmental factors, the new sensor detects temperature differences generated by touch pressure, fundamentally changing the sensing principle from electrical to thermal to eliminate environmental sensitivity issues.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the detection parameter from electrical capacitance to temperature difference. By measuring the temperature change caused by the Peltier effect when pressure is applied, rather than measuring electrical properties that are affected by humidity, temperature, and other environmental factors, the sensor achieves reliable operation in various conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If fixed thermoelectric module is used, then thermoelectric function is achieved, but mechanical flexibility is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvethermoelectric function stabilityVSAvoidmechanical flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a flexible polymer substrate as the base material for the thermoelectric module. This flexible film allows the rigid thermoelectric elements to be mounted on a bendable, stretchable foundation, enabling the module to conform to curved surfaces and withstand mechanical deformation while maintaining its thermoelectric functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a composite structure combining rigid thermoelectric elements with flexible polymer materials. This composite design integrates materials with contrasting mechanical properties - the rigid thermoelectric components provide stable thermoelectric performance while the flexible polymer substrate provides mechanical compliance and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

3Device complexity

If fixed voltage design is used, then simple structure is achieved, but adaptability to various designs is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoiddesign adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the thermoelectric module into discrete, independently adjustable components - individual thermoelectric couples that can be selectively activated. This segmentation allows the voltage output to be controlled by adjusting which segments are connected and how many are active, providing variable voltage and power output while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

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

The flexible thermoelectric module cell achieves stable voltage and power control through the Seebeck effect, enabling reliable touch sensing with enhanced mechanical properties, suitable for various designs without requiring direct industrial handling.

Implementation Method 1

The flexible thermoelectric module cell may be operable by a voltage change generated according to a difference in external temperature through the Seebeck effect.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSeebeck effect: Seebeck Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11282998B2Flexible thermoelectric module cell for touch sensor, touch sensor including the same, and method of manufacturing the flexible thermoelectric module cell for touch sensor

Publication Date: 2022.03.22 KOOKMIN UNIV IND ACAD COOP FOUND

AI summary

Disclosed herein are a flexible thermoelectric module cell for a touch sensor, a touch sensor including the same, and a method of manufacturing the flexible thermoelectric module cell for a touch sensor. The flexible thermoelectric module cell is applicable to cells for touch sensors of various designs, without the need for a person to go directly to an industrially dangerous place.