Force Touch Coil Switch Structure for Sealed Wearable Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mechanical switches in wearable devices are bulky, protrude outwardly, and pose challenges in achieving sleek designs, dustproofing, and waterproofing, while also risking electric shocks and having limited sensitivity in touch input detection.
Innovation Solution
A touch sensing device utilizing a first and second sensing coil with a substrate and elastic member, where the coils are arranged to detect changes in inductance due to external pressure, allowing for force touch input detection without physical buttons, and integrated into the device's housing for improved sensitivity and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional mechanical switch is used, then the switch function is implemented, but the device size increases and the design becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical switch with a touch sensing device that uses sensing coils to detect touch inputs through electromagnetic induction. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical moving parts, thereby reducing device volume while maintaining the switch function. The sensing coils detect changes in electromagnetic fields caused by touch, providing a non-mechanical alternative that achieves the same functionality with significantly reduced size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating principle from mechanical movement to electromagnetic field detection. By utilizing the electromagnetic parameters of the sensing coils and detecting changes in their inductance or capacitance when touched, the system achieves switch functionality without mechanical components. This parameter change enables the transition from a bulky mechanical structure to a compact electromagnetic sensing system.
2Reliability
If a conventional mechanical switch is used, then the switch function is implemented, but the design becomes less sleek and elegant
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical switch structure that protrudes outwardly is replaced with a flat touch sensing device integrated into the device surface. The sensing coils are arranged in a planar configuration, allowing the switch to be flush with the device exterior, thereby achieving a sleek and elegant design while maintaining full switch functionality through electromagnetic detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a three-dimensional mechanical structure to a two-dimensional planar sensing arrangement. The sensing coils are disposed in a flat plane, enabling the switch to occupy minimal space and integrate seamlessly into the device surface. This dimensional change eliminates protruding elements and achieves a sleek, modern aesthetic.
3Reliability
If a conventional mechanical switch is used, then the switch function is implemented, but dustproofing and waterproofing become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical switch with moving parts and gaps is replaced with a solid-state touch sensing device. The sensing coils are enclosed within a sealed structure, eliminating openings that would allow dust or water ingress. This substitution makes the device inherently more resistant to environmental contaminants while maintaining full switch functionality through non-contact electromagnetic detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a sealed housing structure that encloses the sensing coils, creating a protective barrier against dust and water. The touch-sensitive surface can be made of a thin, sealed film or glass that maintains the enclosure's integrity while allowing electromagnetic field penetration for touch detection. This sealing approach enables easy implementation of dustproofing and waterproofing.
4Reliability
If a conventional mechanical switch is used, then the switch function is implemented, but the risk of electric shocks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical switch with direct electrical contact points is replaced with a capacitive or inductive touch sensing system. The sensing coils detect touch through electromagnetic field changes without requiring direct electrical contact between the user and internal circuitry. This substitution eliminates the pathway for electric shock while preserving the switch function through field-based detection.
5Measurement precision
If a touch sensing device with multiple coils is used, then touch input sensitivity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The touch sensing device is divided into multiple sensing coils arranged in specific patterns (e.g., overlapping or adjacent configurations). Each coil contributes to detecting different aspects of the touch input, such as position, pressure, or gesture type. This segmentation enables enhanced sensitivity and multi-point touch detection while managing complexity through modular coil design and systematic arrangement.
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 enhances the sensitivity of touch input detection, improves durability, and enables dustproofing and waterproofing, eliminating the need for protruding mechanical switches while maintaining a sleek design.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensing coil having conductivity; a second sensing coil having conductivity... configured to sense external pressure applied to the touch switch portion
Data Source
AI summary
A touch sensing device includes: a first sensing coil having conductivity; a second sensing coil having conductivity; a substrate having a space accommodating either one or both of the first sensing coil and the second sensing coil, wherein at least a portion of the substrate is disposed between the first sensing coil and the second sensing coil; and an elastic member configured to be compressed as external pressure is applied and the substrate descends.