Variable Resistance Switch Using Low-Tg Polymer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical switches and sensors require a moveable electrically conductive element, which complicates manufacturing and occupies space, necessitating a solution that can respond to force without such a component.
Innovation Solution
The development of electrical switches or sensors comprising two electrically conductive poles separated by a layer of variable resistance material, where the resistance changes with applied force, allowing for electrical current flow without a moveable conductive element, utilizing a low-glass transition temperature polymer as the variable resistance material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a moveable electrically conductive element is used to close a circuit, then the switch can respond to applied force, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical moveable conductive element with a variable resistance material layer that changes its electrical resistance in response to applied force. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical moving parts while maintaining the force-response capability, thereby reducing device complexity and manufacturing difficulty
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes a polymer material whose electrical resistance parameter changes in response to applied force. By selecting a polymer with an appropriate glass transition temperature (no higher than about 10° C.), the material's resistance varies with force application, enabling the switch function without mechanical movement. This parameter-based approach simplifies the device structure while preserving functionality
2Reliability
If a moveable electrically conductive element is used, then the circuit can be closed, but the space required for the element to operate increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for a moveable conductive element by using a variable resistance material that responds to force through resistance changes rather than physical movement. This substitution dramatically reduces the space required while maintaining the ability to control circuit closure
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and removes the moveable conductive element from the switch structure entirely. By relying on the variable resistance properties of the polymer layer, the design eliminates the need for space-consuming mechanical components while preserving the essential circuit closing function
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 a compact and efficient mechanism for detecting applied force or pressure, eliminating the need for a moveable conductive element, thereby simplifying manufacturing and reducing space requirements while effectively controlling electrical current flow based on applied force.
Implementation Method 1
a layer of a variable resistance material in electrical contact with the first electrical pole... the resistance of the variable resistance material varies as a function of the force applied to the variable resistance material
Implementation Method 2
the variable resistance material comprises at least one polymer having a glass transition temperature of no higher than about 10° C.
Data Source
AI summary
Electrical switches or sensors that comprise (a) a first electrical pole, (b) a layer of a variable resistance material in electrical contact with the first electrical pole, and (c) a second electrical pole that is in electrical contact with the variable resistance material and is not in electrical contact with the first pole, wherein the variable resistance material comprises at least one polymer having a glass transition temperature of no higher than about 10° C.