Rotary Dial Sensor Panel with Capacitance Depth Sensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Multimedia devices in vehicles have increased operational complexity due to diversified functions, necessitating a simplified interface that can efficiently handle both rotary wheel functions and depth measurement in a z-axial direction without requiring separate modules.

Innovation Solution

A control apparatus using a dial with a rotatable and movable sensor panel, featuring spaced first electrodes and a sensing electrode to detect capacitance changes for rotation and pressure, and second electrodes for rotation direction sensing, integrated into a vehicle system to control functions like air conditioning, audio, and navigation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate modules are used for rotary wheel function and depth measurement, then functional completeness is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional completenessVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the rotary wheel function and depth measurement function into a single integrated sensor module. The sensor panel includes both first electrodes for rotation detection and second electrodes for depth measurement, allowing both functions to be performed by one unified structure rather than separate modules.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The sensor panel is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs rotation detection and depth measurement. The same sensor panel structure serves multiple purposes: detecting rotational position through first electrodes and measuring pressing depth through second electrodes, making the component universal for both control operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate modules are used for rotary wheel function and depth measurement, then functional completeness is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional completenessVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the rotary wheel function and depth measurement function into a single sensor module, the patent reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This integration lowers manufacturing costs by eliminating redundant structures and simplifying the production process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If separate modules are used for rotary wheel function and depth measurement, then functional completeness is improved, but packaging space increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional completenessVSAvoidpackaging space

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges both functional modules into a single compact sensor panel structure, significantly reducing the space required for packaging and installation. The integrated design eliminates the need for separate housings and mounting structures for rotation and depth sensors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The sensor electrodes are arranged in a nested or overlapping configuration on the same panel surface, with first electrodes and second electrodes coexisting in a compact arrangement that maximizes space utilization while maintaining both functional capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

This solution simplifies user interaction by combining rotary wheel and depth measurement functions in a single module, reducing operational complexity and eliminating the need for separate modules, thereby enhancing usability and reducing costs and packaging requirements.

Implementation Method 1

a first sensing electrode spaced apart to face the sensor panel to interact with the plurality of first electrodes to sense a change in capacitance

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Implementation Method 2

a second sensing electrode spaced apart to face a surface of the sensor panel between the first electrodes and the second electrodes to interact with the plurality of first electrodes and the plurality of second electrodes to sense a change in capacitance

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS10574232B2Control apparatus using dial, manufacturing method of control apparatus using dial and vehicle including the same

Publication Date: 2020.02.25 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD

AI summary

Disclosed herein is a control apparatus using a dial. The control apparatus includes a sensor panel installed to be rotatable and movable up and down. A plurality of first electrodes is disposed in a surface of the sensor panel. The plurality of first electrodes is spaced apart at a predetermined distance in a circumferential direction. A first sensing electrode faces the sensor panel. The first sensing electrode is configured to be capacitively coupled with the plurality of first electrodes to sense a change in capacitance.