Flush Force Sensor Structure for 3D Tactile Input Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensors face challenges in achieving ergonomic designs without compromising functionality, particularly in detecting input forces in three dimensions, and providing a tactile interface that appeals to users.
Innovation Solution
A sensor design featuring a housing with a flush profile and an elastomeric contact element enclosed in a cavity, combined with a sensing device comprising multiple layers, including PET substrates and conductive layers with a quantum tunnelling composite material, allows for detection of force magnitude and position in three dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are designed to 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. Each sensing element independently measures force in one dimension, and the combination of multiple elements provides three-dimensional force measurement capability without requiring a single complex sensor structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A compliant layer is introduced as an intermediary between the contact surface and the sensing elements. This compliant layer transmits mechanical forces from the contact surface to the sensing elements while allowing for ergonomic design flexibility, thereby enabling 3D force measurement without directly complicating the sensor structure.
2Ease of operation
If sensors are designed with ergonomic requirements, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The contact surface is designed with locally optimized properties through the compliant layer, which can be tailored to provide ergonomic characteristics at the user interface while the underlying sensing structure remains relatively simple and modular.
Solution Approach 2:
The compliant layer serves multiple functions: it provides ergonomic comfort at the contact surface, transmits forces to the sensing elements, and allows for design flexibility. This multi-functionality enables ergonomic design without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If a flush profile is used for the sensor surface, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The compliant layer acts as a flexible thin film that can accommodate variations in manufacturing tolerances while still achieving the desired flush profile. Its flexibility allows it to conform to slight variations in the underlying structure, reducing the stringency of manufacturing precision requirements.
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 provides a low-profile, ergonomic input device capable of detecting force magnitude and position with minimal user movement, enhancing user interaction and integration into various electronic devices without affecting design aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
conductive layers with a quantum tunnelling composite material, allows for detection of force magnitude and position in three dimensions
Implementation Method 2
An elastomeric material is injected under pressure directly into the housing and functions as a force transmission medium
Data Source
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AI summary
A sensor (102) for detecting input force comprises 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.