Force Sensing Stylus Multi-Axis Sensor Angle Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stylus pointing devices cannot accurately determine the angle of the stylus relative to a drawing surface, especially in non-horizontal orientations, limiting the simulation of physical drawing implements that respond to both force and angle.
Innovation Solution
A force sensing stylus with a multi-axis force sensor that senses both longitudinal and lateral forces, comprising a shaft with a tip-end and an interior-end, supported by a compliant element and a transverse support, allowing for accurate measurement of force components and orientation with respect to the drawing surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a tilt or gravity sensor is employed to measure the angle of the stylus relative to the vertical direction, then the angle measurement is obtained, but the angle of the stylus relative to the drawing surface cannot be determined accurately in non-horizontal orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from measuring angle relative to the vertical direction (one-dimensional gravity-based measurement) to measuring angle relative to the drawing surface by incorporating a multi-axis force sensor that detects forces in multiple dimensions (longitudinal and lateral forces). This dimensional expansion enables accurate angle measurement regardless of the drawing surface orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a multi-axis force sensor as an intermediary mechanism between the stylus and the drawing surface. This force sensor detects the interaction forces in multiple directions, serving as a mediator that translates physical interaction into accurate angle information relative to the surface, rather than relying solely on gravity-based vertical angle measurement.
2Measurement precision
If a multi-axis force sensor is used to sense both longitudinal and lateral forces, then force measurement capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-axis force sensor that serves multiple functions: it measures both longitudinal and lateral forces, and simultaneously provides angle information relative to the drawing surface. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate sensors (force sensor and tilt sensor), thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining comprehensive measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the force sensing function and the angle measurement function into a single multi-axis force sensor system. By combining these functions, the patent eliminates the need for separate tilt or gravity sensors, thus reducing device complexity while achieving both force and angle measurement objectives.
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
Enables precise simulation of physical drawing implements by providing detailed force and angle information to electronic devices, enhancing user interaction and control in drawing applications, such as line properties and object orientation.
Implementation Method 1
A multi-axis force sensor in contact with the interior-end of the shaft is operable to sense lateral and longitudinal forces applied to the tip-end of the shaft
Implementation Method 2
A compliant element is configured to support the tip-end of the shaft
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a force sensing stylus (100) that includes a shaft (202). The shaft (202) has a tip-end (104), which protrudes from the stylus body (102), and an interior-end (204) that is located within the body (102). The shaft (202) is supported in the body (102) at the tip-end (104) by a compliant element (206). A multi-axis force sensor (208), in contact with the interior-end (204) of the shaft (202), senses lateral and longitudinal components of a force applied to the tip-end (104) of the shaft (202), or a combination thereof. The sensed force components may be transmitted to an electronic device (106) and used to control an application executed on the device (106).