Integrated Electromagnetic and Capacitive Sensor Layout for Signal Shielding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing touch control technologies face limitations in precision and multi-touch capabilities due to shielding of electromagnetic signals by capacitive sensors, which affects the accuracy of electromagnetic induction and detection.
Innovation Solution
An input apparatus with integrated detection sections of electromagnetic and capacitive types, where electromagnetic sensor coils and capacitive sensors are layered to avoid interference, allowing for dual input modes with high precision and multi-touch capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If capacitive sensors are located on the sensor coils to combine high precision and multi-touch capabilities, then both electromagnetic-type precision and capacitive-type multi-touch control are achieved, but the capacitive sensors shield the electromagnetic signals and degrade the accuracy of electromagnetic induction and detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from a two-dimensional planar arrangement to a three-dimensional stacked configuration. The capacitive sensor layer and electromagnetic sensor coil layer are positioned at different vertical levels (z-axis), allowing both sensor types to coexist without spatial interference. This vertical separation eliminates the signal shielding problem while maintaining the integrated dual-mode functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing the capacitive sensor layer and electromagnetic sensor coil layer within a shared substrate structure. Both sensor systems are embedded within the same physical housing and share common support structures, circuit board real estate, and processing electronics, creating a compact integrated system that maximizes space utilization while preventing interference.
2Measurement precision
If electromagnetic-type touch control technique is used to provide precise coordinate locating, then high precision is achieved, but a specific indicator tool such as a stylus is essentially used and no reaction will present if other indicator is used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges electromagnetic-type and capacitive-type touch control techniques into a single integrated input apparatus. The electromagnetic sensor coils provide precise coordinate locating when a stylus is used, while the capacitive sensors detect finger touches and gestures. Both detection mechanisms operate simultaneously within the same device, allowing the system to adapt to different input tools and provide appropriate responses for each.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated sensor system achieves multi-functionality by incorporating both electromagnetic and capacitive detection capabilities. The device can universally respond to various indicator tools including electromagnetic styluses, conductive fingers, and non-conductive objects, with each sensor type activating based on the detected input mode, thereby providing versatile adaptability across different user interactions.
3Ease of operation
If capacitive-type touch control technique is used to provide various multi-touch controls with gesture, then convenience is achieved, but the resolution depends on the density of the matrix of the capacitive sensors and thus the precision is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines capacitive and electromagnetic sensor systems to create a hybrid touch control apparatus. The capacitive sensors provide convenient multi-touch gesture detection across the surface, while the electromagnetic sensor coils enhance precision for coordinate input. The merged system leverages the strengths of both technologies, delivering both ease of operation and high measurement precision simultaneously.
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 integrated approach enhances precision and convenience by minimizing signal shielding, enabling accurate electromagnetic induction and detection while supporting multi-touch inputs, thus combining the advantages of both technologies effectively.
Implementation Method 1
The electromagnetic-type touch control technique is usually applied in coordinate input apparatuses such as digitizers. The coordinate input apparatus includes sensor coils or antennas arranged along x and y axes constituting a sensor plane and an coordinate indicator such as a stylus with a resonance circuit
Implementation Method 2
The capacitive-type touch control technique involves the use of a detection layer in the display module which can store electrical charges. Electrical sensors located at the boundaries of the touch screen of the display module apply an electrical field that is distributed across the touch screen surface, forming a distributed capacitor
Data Source
AI summary
An input apparatus with integrated detection sections of electromagnetic type and capacitive type is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a substrate, a control device and at least one signal processing device on the substrate. The substrate comprises an electromagnetic sensor coil layout and a capacitive sensor layout.