Touch Force Estimation via Finger Deformation Speed
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current touch screen technologies lack accurate methods for estimating touch force and speed, which are essential for enhancing user interaction and feedback in capacitive touch screens.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that measure capacitance values and deformation area changes over time to estimate touch force by determining the rate of change in the size of the touched area, using a capacitive sampling unit, touch deformation area unit, and touch force estimation unit, in conjunction with acoustic measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If capacitance values and deformation area are measured at multiple time instances to determine touch force, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The touch screen display itself serves as the sensing element by utilizing its inherent capacitive properties and deformation characteristics. The display structure performs dual functions: visual output and touch force sensing, eliminating the need for separate complex sensing hardware while achieving precise touch force measurement through capacitance and deformation area changes
Solution Approach 2:
The system measures touch force by detecting changes in physical parameters (capacitance values and deformation area) at multiple time instances. By monitoring the rate of change in deformation area and correlating it with finger speed and force, the system achieves accurate touch force estimation without requiring complex mechanical sensors
2Measurement precision
If the size of the touched area is measured at multiple instances of time to determine rate of change, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic sampling of capacitance values and deformation area at multiple discrete time instances during the touch interval. This periodic measurement approach enables accurate determination of the rate of change in deformation area while maintaining efficient timing, allowing the system to capture the dynamic characteristics of touch without excessive measurement overhead
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 accurate estimation of touch force and speed, improving user interaction and feedback by providing precise force measurements, which can differentiate between various touch intensities.
Implementation Method 1
measuring, at multiple instances of time during a touch interval, capacitance values of a capacitive touch screen display
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a capacitive sampling unit that measures, at the multiple instances of time during a touch interval, capacitance values of a capacitive touch screen display associated with an area in contact with a finger touching the capacitive touch screen display. The device further includes a touch deformation area unit that determines, at the multiple instances of time, a size of the area upon the capacitive touch screen display in contact with the finger touching the capacitive touch screen display. The device also includes a touch force estimation unit that determines a rate of change in the size of the area in contact with the finger, and estimates a touching force of the finger touching the capacitive touch screen display based on the determined rate of change in the size of the area.