Piezoionic Sensor Pressure Detection via Ion Redistribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing touch sensors require an external electrical signal to detect pressure, limiting their functionality and efficiency in applications where energy input is not feasible or desired.
Innovation Solution
A piezoionic sensor system that utilizes a piezoionic layer with mobile ions, which redistributes under applied pressure to generate detectable electrical signals without external energy input, allowing for pressure sensing through electrodes without the need for external electrical signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If external electrical signal is applied to detect pressure, then measurement precision is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The piezoionic sensor enables the sensing element to generate its own electrical signal in response to pressure stimuli without requiring external energy input. The mobile ions within the piezoionic layer spontaneously redistribute under applied pressure, creating an intrinsic electrical response that is directly measured by the electrodes, thus eliminating the need for external excitation signals and achieving energy-autonomous pressure detection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional electrical excitation-based pressure sensing mechanisms with a direct mechano-electrical transduction mechanism. Instead of applying electrical signals and measuring capacitive or resistive changes, the system directly converts mechanical pressure into electrical signals through the piezoionic effect, where pressure-induced ion redistribution generates measurable voltage or current signals
2Ease of operation
If piezoionic layer with mobile ions is used, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The piezoionic sensor employs a composite structure consisting of a piezoionic layer containing mobile ions integrated with electrode layers. This composite material approach combines the pressure-sensitive properties of the piezoionic layer with the electrical conduction capability of the electrodes, creating a unified sensing element that simplifies operation while managing structural complexity through functional integration
3Power
If mobile ions redistribute under pressure, then electrical signal generation is improved, but loss of substance may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The piezoionic layer is configured as a thin film or membrane structure that contains the mobile ions while allowing pressure-induced redistribution. This film-based configuration provides both the necessary ion mobility for signal generation and a contained structure that prevents substantial ion loss, balancing electrical signal generation capability with substance retention
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 pressure detection without external energy input, enhancing sensitivity and flexibility in sensor design, as demonstrated by the use of polymers like polyurethane and PVDF-HFP with liquid or solid electrolytes, and providing a transparent, compliant, and mechanically strong sensing surface.
Implementation Method 1
an electrical signal generated by redistribution of mobile ions in a piezoionic layer under the surface, wherein the redistribution of mobile ions in the piezoionic layer is induced by an externally applied local pressure
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A method of sensing a pressure applied to a surface comprises monitoring an electrical signal generated by redistribution of mobile ions in a piezoionic layer under the surface. An externally applied local pressure at a portion of the layer induces redistribution of mobile ions in the piezoionic layer. It is determined that the surface is pressured based on detection of the electrical signal. A piezoionic sensor includes a sensing surface; a piezoionic layer disposed under the sensing surface such that an externally applied local pressure on a portion of the sensing surface causes detectable redistribution of mobile ions in the piezoionic layer; and electrodes in contact with the layer, configured to monitor electrical signal generated by the redistribution of mobile ions in the piezoionic layer.