Capacitive Touch Screen Sensor Reading via Photoresistive Link
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor elements that change color or optical properties in response to analytes are typically read manually, lacking electronic reading capabilities.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus integrated with a capacitive touch screen and light source, utilizing a photo-resistive element to connect or disconnect information read-out electrodes from a ground electrode based on light exposure, allowing capacitive touch screens to detect sensor elements and determine analyte presence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensor elements are read manually by a user looking at the sensor element, then the reading process is simple and requires minimal equipment, but the accuracy and objectivity of the reading are limited and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a photo-resistive element as an intermediary between the sensor element and the capacitive touch screen. This mediator converts optical information (color changes of the sensor) into electrical resistance changes, which are then detected by the capacitive touch screen, enabling electronic reading without direct human visual inspection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual visual reading process with an electronic detection system. The capacitive touch screen, normally a mechanical/electronic interface for user input, is substituted to perform the sensing function, converting an optical measurement problem into an electrical capacitance measurement that can be processed electronically
2Extent of automation
If a photo-resistive element is used to enable electronic reading, then electronic detection capability is achieved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the capacitive touch screen serve dual functions: its original function as a user interface and a new function as a sensing element for detecting sensor results. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated sensing equipment, reducing overall system complexity despite adding the photo-resistive element
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the reading function into the existing capacitive touch screen infrastructure. By combining the photo-resistive element with the touch screen's electrode structure, the system integrates multiple functions (display, user input, and sensor reading) into a single device, minimizing additional complexity
3Extent of automation
If the sensor element is integrated with electrodes and photo-resistive elements, then electronic reading is enabled, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes changes in optical parameters (light absorption and transmission properties) of the sensor element to induce corresponding changes in electrical resistance of the photo-resistive element. This parameter transformation from optical to electrical domain enables electronic reading while using standard manufacturing techniques for integrating the components
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 electronic reading of sensor elements, improving accuracy and convenience by using capacitive touch screens to detect changes in optical properties and determine analyte presence, overcoming the limitations of manual reading.
Implementation Method 1
a photo-resistive element configured to enable the information read-out electrode to be connected to the ground electrode
Implementation Method 2
the sensor element comprises a material which is arranged to change optical properties in response to an analyte
Implementation Method 3
the portion of conductive material is sized to be detectable by a capacitive touch screen, via capacitive coupling, dependent on resistance of the photo-resistive element
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus and method, the apparatus comprising: an information electrode; a ground electrode; a photo-resistive element configured to enable the information electrode to be connected to the ground electrode; and wherein the apparatus is configured to enable a sensor element to be positioned overlaying the photo-resistive element such that a change in optical properties of the sensor element controls the connection between the ground and information electrodes.