Force Sensing Module Using Hall Element and Shared Magnet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing force sensing modules for electronic products, such as tablet computers, are costly and complex, making them less competitive in the market due to their high unit prices and intricate structures.
Innovation Solution
A force sensing module with vibration feedback using a magnetic sensor as a force sensing unit, comprising a substrate, frame, and tactile actuator, where a Hall element and magnet are positioned to output a voltage change as a force signal when pressed, driving the tactile actuator to generate vibration feedback, and sharing a magnet set with the tactile actuator to simplify the structure and reduce costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional force sensing modules (capacitive sensors, piezoelectric actuators, stress change sensors) are used, then force sensing capability is achieved, but unit price becomes too high and structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical force sensing mechanisms (capacitive sensors, piezoelectric actuators, stress change sensors) with a magnetic field-based sensing system using Hall elements and magnets. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical structures while maintaining force sensing capability, directly resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The magnet set serves dual functions: it generates magnetic field changes for force sensing detection by the Hall element, and simultaneously acts as part of the tactile actuator system for vibration feedback. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining both sensing and actuation capabilities
2Measurement precision
If traditional force sensing modules are used, then force sensing capability is achieved, but unit price becomes too high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs Hall elements and standard magnets which are significantly cheaper than traditional force sensing components like capacitive sensors or piezoelectric actuators. These magnetic components can be mass-produced at low cost, directly addressing the high unit price issue while maintaining adequate force sensing functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the force sensing function and tactile feedback function into a single integrated module structure. The Hall element detects magnetic field changes from the magnet set during both force sensing and vibration feedback operations, eliminating the need for separate sensing and actuation systems and thereby reducing overall manufacturing cost
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 reduces costs by using a Hall element and shares a magnet set with the tactile actuator, resulting in a simplified structure and enhanced competitiveness in the market while providing effective vibration feedback.
Implementation Method 1
the magnetic sensor outputs the voltage change as a force signal
Implementation Method 2
the signal drives the tactile actuator to generate a vibration feedback effect
Data Source
AI summary
A force sensing module with vibration feedback is disclosed, comprising: a substrate, a frame and a plurality of magnetic sensors; the substrate is disposed with at least one tactile actuator, and the substrate has a touch operation surface and a mounting surface on opposite sides, the tactile actuator is mounted on the mounting surface; the frame is disposed with at least three buffer spacers, the buffer spacers connect the frame to the substrate; the magnetic sensor includes a magnet and a Hall element, one of the magnet and the Hall element is disposed on the frame, and the other is disposed on the substrate; thereby when a force is applied on the touch operation surface to make the substrate generate an offset, the Hall element outputs a force signal due to the voltage change caused by the approaching magnet, and the signal drives the tactile actuator to generate a vibration feedback.