Touchpad Module Magnetic Travel Distance Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional touchpad modules are influenced by the tolerance of their stack structure, affecting the traveling distance of the touch member, and suffer from abrasion due to contact-type external forces used to activate the switch member.
Innovation Solution
A touchpad module with a calibrating and adjusting device using magnetic elements to adjust the traveling distance of the touch member through a repulsive force, reducing the impact of stack structure tolerance and minimizing switch member abrasion by employing non-contact repulsive forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If a stack structure of material layers is used to construct the touchpad module, then the touchpad module achieves a thin profile suitable for portable devices, but the traveling distance of the touch member is influenced by the tolerance accumulation of the stacked structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical adjustment mechanism (screws, springs, or direct contact elements) with a magnetic field-based adjustment system. The magnetic adjustment element generates a magnetic field that interacts with the touch member to adjust its traveling distance, eliminating the need for mechanical contact and reducing the impact of stack structure tolerances on the touch member's movement precision.
2Reliability
If contact-type external forces are used to activate the switch member, then the switch member can be reliably activated, but the switch member suffers from abrasion that reduces its lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces contact-type mechanical forces with a magnetic field-based activation mechanism. The magnetic adjustment element interacts with the switch member through magnetic attraction or repulsion, eliminating direct mechanical contact between the activating element and the switch member. This non-contact activation method maintains reliable switch activation while preventing abrasion and extending the switch member's lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the adjusting element and the switch member. Instead of direct mechanical contact, the magnetic field serves as the mediator to transmit the activating force, thereby eliminating wear and tear on the switch member while maintaining reliable activation.
3Manufacturing precision
If the adjusting element is moved relative to the base plate to calibrate tolerance, then the traveling distance of the touch member can be adjusted, but the device requires a calibration mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical calibration mechanisms (such as threaded adjustments, cam mechanisms, or multiple adjustment screws) with a magnetic field-based adjustment system. The magnetic adjustment element can be positioned and held at precise locations through magnetic field interactions, allowing for accurate calibration of the touch member's traveling distance without requiring complex mechanical structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adjusts the magnetic field strength or the position of the magnetic adjustment element to change the effective traveling distance of the touch member. By varying magnetic field parameters rather than mechanical dimensions, the system achieves precise calibration with simpler structural requirements.
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
The solution allows for precise calibration of the touch member's traveling distance, independent of the stack structure's tolerance, and extends the lifespan of the switch member by reducing abrasion through non-contact repulsive force activation.
Implementation Method 1
the adjusting element includes a second magnetic element corresponding to the first magnetic element. Moreover, like poles of the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element face each other. While the adjusting element is adjusted, the adjusting element is moved relative to the base plate. Consequently, a travelling distance of the touch member is adjusted according to a repulsive force between the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element.
Data Source
AI summary
A touchpad module for an electronic device is provided. The touchpad module includes a fixing frame, a touch member, a switch member and an adjusting element. The touch member is installed within an opening of the fixing frame. The switch member is installed on the touch member. The switch member includes a first magnetic element. The adjusting element is accommodated within an adjusting hole of the fixing frame. The adjusting element includes a second magnetic element corresponding to the first magnetic element. Moreover, like poles of the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element face each other. Consequently, a travelling distance of the touch member is adjusted according to a repulsive force between the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element.