Touch Module Pressure Sensing With Nested Elastic Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional touch modules face challenges in enhancing pressure sensitivity and simplifying structure due to the difficulty in installing large-area inductive pressure sensors under the base plate, which is obstructed by other structures.
Innovation Solution
The touch module integrates inductive pressure sensors within an elastic structure on the base plate, allowing for real-time pressure transmission and increased sensitivity, with multiple sensors working together for precise pressure detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If inductive pressure sensors are positioned at the outer edges of the touch module, then the structure is simpler to implement, but the pressure sensitivity is reduced because the most pressure-sensitive area (base plate under touch surface) cannot be effectively utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure sensor is nested within the elastic structure, which itself is integrated into the base plate assembly. This nested configuration allows the pressure sensor to be positioned at the most pressure-sensitive location (under the touch surface) without requiring separate mounting structures, thus improving pressure sensitivity while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic structure serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for the touch plate, transmits pressure forces, and houses the pressure sensor. By merging these functions into a single integrated component, the design eliminates the need for separate pressure transmission mechanisms and mounting structures, resolving the contradiction between improved pressure sensitivity and structural complexity.
2Measurement precision
If large-area inductive pressure sensors are installed under the base plate to enhance pressure sensitivity, then the pressure detection capability is improved, but the installation becomes difficult due to obstruction by other structures
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure sensor is nested within the elastic structure's internal space, allowing it to be positioned directly under the touch surface where pressure sensitivity is highest. This nested arrangement bypasses the need for separate mounting space that would be obstructed by other structures, making installation feasible while maintaining large sensing area.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic structure acts as an intermediary that bridges the touch plate and the pressure sensor. It transmits pressure forces from the touch surface to the sensor while providing a mounting platform, thereby enabling the sensor to be positioned in the optimal location without direct obstruction from other structural elements.
3Measurement precision
If multiple pressure sensors are used to improve pressure detection accuracy, then the detection precision is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each pressure sensor is designed to serve multiple purposes: detecting pressure magnitude, determining pressure location, and contributing to overall pressure distribution analysis. By making each sensor multi-functional, the system achieves high detection accuracy with fewer sensors, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining precision.
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 design enhances pressure sensitivity, simplifies the overall structure, and enables accurate detection of pressing actions by analyzing signals from multiple pressure sensors.
Implementation Method 1
The electrodes of the inductive pressure sensor detect the change of the distance or the height of the gap between adjacent plates and thus result in variations in the current intensity
Implementation Method 2
the elastic structure is extended from the base plate and contacted with the bottom side of the touch-sensitive area of the touch plate, the elastic structure on the base plate not only supports the touch plate but also efficiently transmits the pressure to the pressure sensor in real time
Data Source
AI summary
A touch module includes a base plate, a touch plate, an elastic structure and a pressure sensor. The elastic structure includes an elastic element. The pressure sensor includes a sensing element and a sensing part. The touch panel is located over the base plate. The elastic element of the elastic structure is disposed on the base plate and covered by the touch plate. The pressure sensor is arranged between the base plate and the touch plate. The sensing element of the pressure sensor is installed on the touch plate and aligned with the elastic element. The sensing part is disposed on the base plate and located at the periphery of the elastic element. When the touch plate is pressed, the elastic element is moved, and a distance between the sensing element and the sensing part is subjected to a change. Consequently, an electric signal is generated.