Flush Elastomeric Force Sensor for 3D Input Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensors face challenges in achieving ergonomic designs while maintaining functionality, particularly in providing three-dimensional force measurements, which complicates their implementation in commercial applications.
Innovation Solution
A sensor design featuring a housing with a contact element made of elastomeric material and a sensing device comprising layers of PET substrates, silver, and printed carbon materials, allowing for detection of force magnitude and position in three-dimensional Cartesian axes, with a flush profile for minimal user movement and integration into electronic devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors provide three-dimensional force measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is divided into multiple independent sensing elements arranged in a matrix array, where each element detects force in a specific direction. This segmentation allows three-dimensional force measurement capability while keeping each individual sensing element relatively simple in structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-point force detection to distributed matrix array detection, adding spatial dimensionality to the measurement capability. The matrix arrangement of sensing elements enables three-dimensional force vector detection without requiring each element to be complex.
2Ease of operation
If sensors are designed for ergonomic requirements, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor matrix array is designed to detect multiple types of mechanical interactions including force magnitude, force position, and directional information simultaneously. This multi-functionality enables ergonomic applications such as joysticks and touch interfaces without requiring separate sensors for each measurement type.
3Ease of operation
If contact element is made of elastomeric material, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The contact element utilizes elastomeric material properties such as elasticity and deformability to provide tactile feedback and user-friendly interaction. The material parameters are selected to balance operational comfort with manufacturability, allowing the contact element to be formed using standard molding techniques while maintaining desirable tactile characteristics.
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 sensor effectively detects input force with high accuracy and ergonomic usability, enabling seamless integration into various devices without compromising design aesthetics or functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a contact element 105 which comprises an external surface 106 and which is configured to provide a physical contact between the contact element and the sensing device on application of a mechanical interaction
Implementation Method 2
a sensing device 304... comprising layers of PET substrates, silver, and printed carbon materials
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor (102) for detecting input force includes a housing (103) having a cavity (201) and a contact element (105) which is enclosed in the cavity. The contact element and cavity provide a substantially flush profile along their respective surfaces (104, 106). The cavity includes a wall (301, 302, 303) having a sensing device (304) attached thereto and the contact element provides a physical contact between the contact element and the sensing device on application of a mechanical interaction to the surface of the contact element.