Modular Touch Control Device with Segmented Sensor Electrodes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing touch control devices lack universality and production efficiency, as they are typically manufactured to fit specific external devices and are difficult to customize in size or shape, limiting user flexibility and compatibility with various devices.
Innovation Solution
A modular touch control device comprising a main module and submodule with interchangeable connectors and sensor electrodes, allowing for customizable size, shape, and configuration to suit different external devices and user preferences, with a controller that communicates with external devices based on sensor IC changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If touch control devices are manufactured individually to fit specific external devices, then compatibility with external devices is improved, but production efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The touch control device is divided into multiple detachable modules including a first module with first sensor electrode and a second module with second sensor electrode. These modules can be independently manufactured and then combined in various configurations to fit different external devices, thereby improving both production efficiency and compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design creates universal components that can be used across different device types. The standardized interfaces and sensor modules can be configured to work with various external devices (smartphones, tablets, PCs), eliminating the need for completely individual manufacturing for each device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If touch control devices are manufactured individually for each external device, then fit and compatibility are improved, but ease of customization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the touch control device into detachable modules with standardized interfaces, users can easily reconfigure or replace modules to customize the device for different applications or preferences without requiring complex manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The detachable and reconfigurable nature of the modules introduces dynamic adaptability, allowing the device structure to be changed by the user based on needs. The modules can be attached or detached easily, enabling flexible customization of size, shape, and functionality.
3Ease of operation
If modular detachable modules are used, then ease of assembly and customization are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
While segmentation into modules does increase structural elements, it simplifies the overall system by using standardized, interchangeable components. The complexity is managed through modular architecture where each module is relatively simple and can be independently manufactured and tested.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple simple modules are combined to create the complete touch control device. The connectors and interfaces are designed to seamlessly join modules, hiding the complexity of connections while maintaining ease of assembly. The sensor electrodes on different modules work together as an integrated system.
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 flexible assembly and disassembly, increased production efficiency, and compatibility with various external devices, allowing users to customize the touch control device's size, shape, and functionality to suit their needs.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor IC detecting a change in permittivity of the first sensor electrode, and a second sensor IC detecting a change in permittivity of the second sensor electrode
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a touch control device comprising at least two modules. A touch control device includes a submodule having a first housing, a first sensor electrode formed on at least one face of the first housing, and a first sensor integrated circuit (IC) detecting a change in permittivity of the first sensor electrode, and a main module having a second housing detachably coupled to the first housing, a second sensor electrode formed at least one face of the second housing, a second sensor IC detecting a change in permittivity of the second sensor electrode, a power supplier provided to supply power to the submodule, a communication module provided to communicate with an external device, and a controller configured to control the external device based on the change in permittivity of the second sensor IC.