Viscous Fluid Tactile Switch for Mobile Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in implementing tactile buttons in mobile electronic devices is the competition for space within the device, which can lead to RF interference and decreased durability, and the need for flexible positioning of button controls.
Innovation Solution
A tactile switch design featuring a pressure-sensitive interface on the exterior of the device with a viscous fluid pathway connecting to a remote switch mechanism, allowing pressure application to trigger electrical contact, and optional vibration transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical buttons are implemented in mobile electronic devices, then tactile input functionality is provided, but space is consumed and RF interference occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical buttons with a pressure-sensitive interface coupled to a switch mechanism through a pathway filled with viscous fluid. When pressure is applied to the interface, the fluid transmits the pressure remotely to activate the switch mechanism, eliminating the need for physical mechanical buttons and reducing space occupation while maintaining tactile input functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The viscous fluid acts as an intermediary medium that transmits pressure from the pressure-sensitive interface to the remote switch mechanism. This allows the button functionality to be distributed across different locations within the device, reducing space requirements and avoiding RF interference associated with traditional mechanical button positioning.
2Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical buttons are positioned within the device, then tactile input is enabled, but RF interference and decreased durability occur
Solution Approach 1:
The button control system is segmented into three distinct components: the pressure-sensitive interface on the exterior, the viscous fluid pathway, and the remote switch mechanism. This segmentation allows the pressure interface to be positioned optimally for user interaction while the switch mechanism is located remotely to avoid RF interference and improve durability, with the fluid pathway connecting them.
3Area of stationary object
If space-efficient button design is implemented, then device compactness is improved, but flexible positioning of button controls is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from traditional three-dimensional mechanical button structures to a distributed pressure-sensitive system where the pressure interface can be positioned on various exterior surfaces. The viscous fluid pathway enables remote actuation, allowing the button control to be effectively positioned in multiple locations without consuming additional space, thus achieving both space efficiency and positioning flexibility.
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 efficiently utilizes space, reduces interference, and enhances durability by allowing flexible button placement while providing tactile feedback through electrical contact and vibration.
Implementation Method 1
a viscous fluid substantially fills the pathway. The tactile switch is configured such that when pressure is applied to the pressure sensitive interface, the viscous fluid in the pathway exerts pressure on the switch mechanism, causing the switch to make an electrical contact.
Implementation Method 2
the tactile switch further comprises means to transmit vibration to the exterior housing when the electrical contact is made with the switch mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A tactile switch on a mobile electronic device having a housing is provided. The tactile switch is comprised of a pressure sensitive interface on an exterior portion of the housing, a switch mechanism, and at least one pathway coupled to the pressure sensitive interface and extending from the pressure sensitive interface to the switch mechanism. The switch mechanism is at a remote location from the pressure sensitive interface. The pathway is formed in an interior portion of the housing. The tactile switch further includes a viscous fluid substantially filling the pathway. The tactile switch is configured such that when pressure is applied to the pressure sensitive interface, the viscous fluid exerts pressure on the switch mechanism, causing the switch to make an electrical contact.