A button structure comprises a keycap, an elastic body, a scissor mechanism, and a piezoresistive film sensor arranged on a support plate. The scissor mechanism and the elastic body are arranged between the keycap and the piezoresistive film sensor. The piezoresistive film sensor comprises a first pressure sensing area and a second pressure sensing area. The elastic body corresponds to the first pressure sensing area and the scissor mechanism corresponds to the second pressure sensing area, such that, when a pressure is applied to the keycap, a first pressure acts on the elastic body to generate pressure on the first pressure sensing area and a second pressure acts on the scissor mechanism to generate pressure on the second pressure sensing area.
G06F 3/02 - Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
H01H 13/7073 - Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard with contacts carried by or formed from layers in a multilayer structure, e.g. membrane switches characterised by construction, mounting or arrangement of operating parts, e.g. push-buttons or keys characterised by the mechanism between keys and layered keyboards characterised by springs, e.g. Euler springs
2.
A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A COMPONENT FOR A MATRIX-ARRAY FORCE SENSOR AND ROLL-TO-ROLL APPARATUS TO CARRY OUT THE SAME
Examples disclosed relate to a method of manufacturing a component for a matrix-array force sensor, the method comprising: depositing a conductive material on a patterned substrate, wherein the patterned substrate comprises plateau regions and recessed grooves between the plateau regions, wherein the depositing of the conductive material covers the plateau regions to form electrodes, wherein at least the base of each groove remains uncovered by the conductive material after the depositing to define gaps between adjacent electrodes; and printing a printable material onto the electrodes to form a printed layer over each electrode.
H05K 3/12 - Apparatus or processes for manufacturing printed circuits in which conductive material is applied to the insulating support in such a manner as to form the desired conductive pattern using printing techniques to apply the conductive material
H05K 3/14 - Apparatus or processes for manufacturing printed circuits in which conductive material is applied to the insulating support in such a manner as to form the desired conductive pattern using spraying techniques to apply the conductive material
G01L 1/20 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress
Examples disclosed relate to a matrix array force sensor comprising a first layer comprising: a plurality of row electrodes each having a longitudinal axis orientated in a first direction, each of the plurality of row electrodes comprising a main body portion and at least one interpolation portion, wherein each interpolation portion comprises a plurality of projections which are interdigitated with the plurality of projections of the interpolation portion of an adjacent row electrode to together form a interpolation region, the first layer thereby comprising at least one row interpolation region; wherein a location of a force applied in a one of the at least one row interpolation regions is determinable in dependence on a first portion of the force detected by the projections of a first of the plurality of row electrodes and a second portion of the force detected by the projections of a second of the plurality of row electrodes adjacent the first of the plurality of row electrodes; a second layer, the first layer and second layer being stacked together, the second layer comprising: a plurality of column electrodes each having a longitudinal axis, orientated in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, each of the plurality of column electrodes comprising a main body portion and at least one interpolation portion, wherein each interpolation portion comprises a plurality of projections which are interdigitated with the plurality of projections of the interpolation portion of an adjacent column electrode to together form a interpolation region, the second layer thereby comprising at least one column interpolation region; wherein a location of the force applied in a one of the column interpolation regions, stacked with the one row interpolation region, is determinable in dependence on a third portion of the force detected by the projections of a first of the plurality of column electrodes and a fourth portion of the force detected by the projections of a second of the plurality of column electrodes adjacent the first of the plurality of column electrodes; at least one functional resistive layer located between the first layer and the second layer; where the location of the force applied to the matrix-array force sensor is determinable in dependence on the detected first, second, third and fourth portions of the force.
G01L 1/20 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress
G01L 1/22 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress using resistance strain gauges
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
An apparatus (601) for controlling the dynamic range of a force sensing device comprises a plurality of drive lines (606) and a plurality of sensing lines (607) arranged to provide a plurality of intersections defining a plurality of keys. Each key comprises a sensing element (602) which exhibits a variable resistance. A controller (603) is configured to convert an analogue output from each sensing element to a digital output and an input amplifier is configured to provide signal gain, such that, the range of the controller is adapted by means of the signal gain. The input amplifier comprises a transimpedance amplifier (604) connected to a gain resistor (605).
G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
A force sensing device (101) comprises a first electrode (102) and a second electrode (103) arranged to provide an electrical output in response to an applied force to determine the magnitude of the applied force. The force sensing device comprises a collapsible structure (201) configured to provide an electrical short circuit in response to the applied force when the applied force exceeds a predetermined magnitude.
G01L 1/20 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress
G01L 25/00 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus for measuring force, torque, work, mechanical power, or mechanical efficiency
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
A force sensing device (201), comprises a first electrode layer (202) comprising a material having a first resistivity and a second electrode layer (203) comprising a pressure sensitive material having a second resistivity. The second resistivity is relatively high compared to the first resistivity. The first electrode layer and the second electrode layer are arranged apart and configured to be brought together under an applied force. A first conductive material is applied to the first electrode layer to produce a first moderator layer (204) and a second conductive material is applied to the second electrode layer to produce a second moderator layer (205). The first conductive material and the second conductive material each comprise a material having a substantially low resistivity. The low resistivity is lower than the first resistivity and the second resistivity, such that, when the first and second conductive materials are brought into contact under an applied force, the current flow between the first and second conductive materials is dependent on the contact area between the first and second moderator layers.
G01L 1/18 - Measuring force or stress, in general using properties of piezo-resistive materials, i.e. materials of which the ohmic resistance varies according to changes in magnitude or direction of force applied to the material
G01L 1/20 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress
G01L 1/22 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress using resistance strain gauges
A force sensing device (101), comprises a first conductive layer (102) comprising a solid layer of conductive material, a second conductive layer (103) and an active layer (104) positioned between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer; wherein said active layer comprises a pressure resistive material responsive to an applied force arranged in a rotationally symmetric pattern to provide a pre-determined desired force-resistance response.
G01L 1/18 - Measuring force or stress, in general using properties of piezo-resistive materials, i.e. materials of which the ohmic resistance varies according to changes in magnitude or direction of force applied to the material
G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
A composite elastomeric structure (201) comprises an elastic body (202) comprising a top structure (203) and a ring side wall structure (204) and a transmitting column (205) comprising an outer shell structure (206) and an inner core structure (207). The transmitting column is connected to the top structure and is located below the top structure in a substantially central position. The ring side wall structure is connected to the top structure and surrounds the transmitting column and is located below the top structure. The outer shell structure comprises a material having a first hardness and the inner core structure comprises a material having a second hardness. The first hardness is smaller than the second hardness.
H01H 13/704 - Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard with contacts carried by or formed from layers in a multilayer structure, e.g. membrane switches characterised by the layers, e.g. by their material or structure
A pressure module (201) comprises a substrate (202), a support structure (203) and a pressing membrane (204). The support structure is connected to the substrate and the pressing membrane to form an accommodating cavity (205) between the substrate and the pressing membrane. An electrode (206) is disposed on a surface of the substrate or the pressing membrane and a variable resistance layer (207) is respectively disposed on the opposite surface of the other of the substrate and the pressing membrane. On application of pressure to the pressing membrane, the pressing membrane is elastically deformed and the variable resistance layer is brought into contact with the electrode to form a contact area and a resistance value between the variable resistance layer and the electrode. The contact area and the elastic deformation is positively correlated.
H01H 13/79 - Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by the contacts or the contact sites characterised by the form of the contacts, e.g. interspersed fingers or helical networks
H03K 17/965 - Switches controlled by moving an element forming part of the switch
A button structure (201) comprises a keycap (202), an elastic body (301), a scissor mechanism (203), and a piezoresistive film sensor (204) arranged on a support plate (205). The scissor mechanism and the elastic body are arranged between the keycap and the piezoresistive film sensor. The piezoresistive film sensor comprises a first pressure sensing area (302) and a second pressure sensing area (303). The elastic body corresponds to the first pressure sensing area and the scissor mechanism corresponds to the second pressure sensing area, such that, when a pressure is applied to the keycap, a first pressure acts on the elastic body to generate pressure on the first pressure sensing area and a second pressure acts on the scissor mechanism to generate pressure on the second pressure sensing area.
H01H 13/70 - Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard
H01H 13/702 - Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard with contacts carried by or formed from layers in a multilayer structure, e.g. membrane switches
H01H 13/7057 - Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard with contacts carried by or formed from layers in a multilayer structure, e.g. membrane switches characterised by construction, mounting or arrangement of operating parts, e.g. push-buttons or keys characterised by the arrangement of operating parts in relation to each other, e.g. pre-assembled groups of keys
G06F 3/02 - Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
A portable gaming device comprises an electronic device comprising a processor configured to run application software. The gaming device also comprises a cover which is storeable in combination with the electronic device, and which is attachable and detachable from the electronic device. The cover comprises an input device comprising a touch sensitive device configured to measure a position and magnitude of an applied force. The touch sensitive device is also configured to provide an input signal to the application software in response to such an applied force.
A63F 13/2145 - Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types for locating contacts on a surface, e.g. floor mats or touch pads the surface being also a display device, e.g. touch screens
A63F 13/218 - Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types using pressure sensors, e.g. generating a signal proportional to the pressure applied by the player
A force sensing device comprises a first electrode (401) and a second electrode (402) and a substrate (201) comprising at least one groove (202). The force sensing device further comprises an active material (501) between the first and second electrodes. The at least one groove comprises a first face (301) and a second face (302) inclined to the first face. The first face and second face are arranged a distance (303) apart from each other. The first electrode is deposited on the first face and the second electrode is deposited on the second face. The distance changes on application of an applied force (701) to deform the active material and provide a change in an electrical property, such as resistance, capacitance or a combination, of the active material.
G01L 1/14 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in capacitance or inductance of electrical elements, e.g. by measuring variations of frequency of electrical oscillators
G01L 1/18 - Measuring force or stress, in general using properties of piezo-resistive materials, i.e. materials of which the ohmic resistance varies according to changes in magnitude or direction of force applied to the material
G01L 1/20 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
A detector is shown for detecting manually applied pressure. A substrate (816) defines a position of activation and electrodes (811 to 815) are mounted on this substrate. A processing device is energised such that the electrodes are configured to identify a position of applied pressure by detecting a change in resistance in response to a first energising signal received from the processing device. Furthermore, the electrodes are configured to confirm this position of applied pressure by detecting a change in capacitance in response to a second energising signal received from the processing device. The electrodes comprise a first electrode (801) located on an upper surface which detects the change in capacitance, and second and third electrodes (811 and 812) which detect the change in resistance.
G01L 1/14 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in capacitance or inductance of electrical elements, e.g. by measuring variations of frequency of electrical oscillators
G01L 1/20 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress
G01L 5/22 - Apparatus for, or methods of, measuring force, work, mechanical power, or torque, specially adapted for specific purposes for measuring the force applied to control members, e.g. control members of vehicles, triggers
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
An apparatus provides an output in response to a mechanical interaction, such as an applied force or pressure. The apparatus comprises a touch screen (103) comprising a display (104) viewable on a front surface (105) of the apparatus (102) and a sensing device (201) positioned on a rear surface (301) of the apparatus. The rear surface is substantially opposite to the front surface. The sensing device comprises a force sensing element (202) and a capacitive sensing element (203) and the force sensing element is activated by an application of a mechanical interaction on the rear surface. The capacitive sensing element provides positional data in response to the activation.
G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
G06F 1/16 - Constructional details or arrangements
G06F 3/0362 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of 1D translations or rotations of an operating part of the device, e.g. scroll wheels, sliders, knobs, rollers or belts
G06F 3/0354 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of 2D relative movements between the device, or an operating part thereof, and a plane or surface, e.g. 2D mice, trackballs, pens or pucks
G06F 1/3234 - Power saving characterised by the action undertaken
A pressure sensor comprises a base layer, a supporting structure arranged on the base layer, an elastic layer disposed above the base layer and the supporting structure, having a curved lower surface that is recessed away from the base layer, wherein the curved lower surface, the supporting structure and the base layer define a cavity with an arched top wall. A first electrode, a second electrode, and an elastic body are all arranged within the cavity, such that when the elastic layer is elastically deformed in the direction of the base layer, the elastic body electrically connects the first electrode with the second electrode, so as to generate a first signal related to the elastic deformation of the elastic body.
G01L 1/18 - Measuring force or stress, in general using properties of piezo-resistive materials, i.e. materials of which the ohmic resistance varies according to changes in magnitude or direction of force applied to the material
G01L 1/20 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress
H01C 10/10 - Adjustable resistors adjustable by mechanical pressure or force
G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
A force sensing device (301) comprises a sensing array (102) comprising a first conductive layer having a plurality of conductive rows (103) and a second conductive layer having a plurality of conductive columns (104). The plurality of conductive rows and plurality of conductive columns are arranged to define a plurality of intersections. The force sensing device also comprises an electro-active layer overlaying the first conductive layer and comprising a pressure sensitive element (105, 106, 107, 108) at each intersection. A force concentrating structure (307) is positioned at each intersection on the second conductive layer.
G01L 1/18 - Measuring force or stress, in general using properties of piezo-resistive materials, i.e. materials of which the ohmic resistance varies according to changes in magnitude or direction of force applied to the material
G01L 1/20 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress
A force sensing device (101) comprises a first conductive layer (102) and a second conductive layer (103) and a pressure sensitive active layer (104) responsive to a mechanical interaction. A force distribution structure (203) is positioned between the first and second conductive layers and extends between a first end and a second end of the first conductive layer. The force distribution structure is configured to expand the contact area between the pressure sensitive active layer and the first conductive layer in response to a force being applied to the force sensing device.
G01L 1/18 - Measuring force or stress, in general using properties of piezo-resistive materials, i.e. materials of which the ohmic resistance varies according to changes in magnitude or direction of force applied to the material
G01L 1/20 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress
A touch device comprises a base, a membrane pressure sensor arranged on the base, a touch sensing layer covering the membrane pressure sensor, and a force feedback structure arranged on the lower surface of the touch sensing layer and electrically connected to the membrane pressure sensor. The membrane pressure sensor is configured to generate a pressing signal related to the force applied to it, and the force feedback structure is configured to receive the pressing signal and generate a feedback force corresponding to it.
G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
G06F 3/0354 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of 2D relative movements between the device, or an operating part thereof, and a plane or surface, e.g. 2D mice, trackballs, pens or pucks
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
A button structure comprises a base layer, a supporting structure arranged on the base layer, an elastic film layer, the elastic film layer covering the support structure and connected to the support structure, the support structure and the elastic film layer defining a cavity above the base layer, a first upper electrode arranged on the lower surface of the elastic film layer and located in the cavity, a first lower electrode, arranged on the base layer and located in the cavity, and a first variable resistance elastic body between the first upper and first lower electrodes, either arranged on the lower surface of the first upper electrode or arranged on the upper surface of the first lower electrode. When the elastic film layer is elastically deformed in the direction of the base layer, the first variable resistance elastic body connects the first upper electrode with the first lower electrode so as to generate a first signal related to the elastic deformation of the first variable resistance elastic body.
H01H 1/029 - Composite material comprising conducting material dispersed in an elastic support or binding material
H01H 13/785 - Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by the contacts or the contact sites characterised by the material of the contacts, e.g. conductive polymers
H01H 13/79 - Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by the contacts or the contact sites characterised by the form of the contacts, e.g. interspersed fingers or helical networks
H01H 13/807 - Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by the contacts or the contact sites characterised by the spatial arrangement of the contact sites, e.g. superimposed sites
A key mechanism (201) comprises an elastic structure (202) comprising a first cavity (203) located above a second cavity (204) which are spaced apart from each other. The key mechanism comprises first and second button structures (205, 210). The second button structure comprises an electrode layer (211) on an upper wall (214) of the second cavity and an electrode layer (212) on a lower wall (215) of the second cavity. The second button structure has an elastic body (213) on the surface of one of the electrode layers. The first button structure is configured to generate a first key signal when a force is applied to an upper wall of the first cavity and compress the upper wall of the second cavity upon application of that force. The electrode layers come into contact to generate a second key signal in response to elastic deformation of the elastic body when the force is applied.
H01H 1/029 - Composite material comprising conducting material dispersed in an elastic support or binding material
H01H 13/785 - Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by the contacts or the contact sites characterised by the material of the contacts, e.g. conductive polymers
H01H 13/79 - Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by the contacts or the contact sites characterised by the form of the contacts, e.g. interspersed fingers or helical networks
H01H 13/807 - Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by the contacts or the contact sites characterised by the spatial arrangement of the contact sites, e.g. superimposed sites
A portable gaming device comprises an electronic device (101) comprising a processor configured to run application software. The gaming device also comprises a cover (701) which is storeable in combination with the electronic device, and which is attachable and detachable from the electronic device. The cover comprises an input device (702) comprising a touch sensitive device configured to measure a position and magnitude of an applied force. The touch sensitive device is also configured to provide an input signal to the application software in response to such an applied force.
A63F 13/2145 - Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types for locating contacts on a surface, e.g. floor mats or touch pads the surface being also a display device, e.g. touch screens
A63F 13/218 - Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types using pressure sensors, e.g. generating a signal proportional to the pressure applied by the player
A63F 13/23 - Input arrangements for video game devices for interfacing with the game device, e.g. specific interfaces between game controller and console
A63F 13/98 - Accessories, i.e. detachable arrangements optional for the use of the video game device, e.g. grip supports of game controllers
A63F 13/92 - Video game devices specially adapted to be hand-held while playing
A pressure sensor (201) comprises a first sensing module (203) comprising a first negative electrode (207) and first support structures (208) arranged at intervals on the first negative electrode. A first flexible insulating layer (205) covers an upper surface (209) of the first support structures and first positive electrodes (206) are arranged at intervals on a lower surface (210) of the first flexible insulating layer and distributed between the first support structures. A second sensing module (204) comprises a second negative electrode (213) disposed on the first flexible insulating layer and second support structures (214) are arranged at intervals on the second negative electrode. A second flexible insulating layer (211) covers an upper surface (216) of the second support structures. Second positive electrodes (212) are arranged on a lower surface (217) of the second flexible insulating layer at intervals and distributed between the second support structures. The first support structures are offset from the second support structures.
A method of classifying a mechanical interaction on a sensing array (101) is described. The sensing array comprises a plurality of sensing elements (102, 103, 104) and the method comprises the steps of identifying positional (x, y) and extent (z) data in response to a mechanical interaction (501) such as a finger press in the sensing array; converting the positional and extent data to image data to produce an image; and classifying the positional and extent data by providing the image to an artificial neural network.
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
G06F 3/0488 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures
A method of maintaining a pressure input path in a sensing array (401) is described. The sensing array comprises a plurality of sensing elements (404), and the method involves activating a first sensing element (404A) to determine a first location data point (403) and activating a second sensing element (404D) to determine a second location data point (405). The state location (x,y) and state velocity (Vx, Vy) are calculated based on the first and second location data points to create a state vector (407). A predicted path of further location data points is determined from the state vector to avoid drop out problems with pressure inputs.
A method of classifying pressure inputs in a sensing array (201), in which the sensing array comprises a plurality of sensing elements (202, 203, 204) responsive to pressure inputs is described. The method comprises steps of identifying a plurality of pressure inputs in the sensing array and converting the plurality of pressure inputs into an output image (601). The output image is compared with a data set (701) comprising a plurality of images (702, 703, 704) of undesirable pressure inputs by means of an artificial neural network. A mask (705) is applied which is consistent with the output image to remove undesirable pressure inputs.
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
G06F 3/0488 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures
An apparatus (201) for use in the assembly of an electronic device (101, Fig 1), such as a mobile telephone, comprises a pressure sensor (202). The pressure sensor is embedded within an inner elastic layer (203) and the inner elastic layer is embedded within an outer elastic layer (204). The inner elastic layer has an elastic modulus which is greater than the elastic modulus of the outer elastic layer.
A pressure sensor (101) comprises a substrate (102) and a conductive layer (103) disposed on the substrate and a spacer layer (104) having a thickness (109) larger than the thickness (110) of the conductive layer. The pressure sensor also comprises an elastic membrane (106) connected to the spacer layer, which overlays the conductive layer with the spacer layer providing a space (113) therebetween and a sensing electrode layer (105) arranged on a lower surface (114) of the elastic membrane and spaced apart from the conductive layer. The sensing electrode layer forms at least two electrodes opposed and spaced apart from each other. The two electrodes are respectively connected to respective connectors and contact the conductive layer in response to an applied pressure on the elastic membrane. Each electrode transmits an output signal of resistance data to a processor through the respective connector.
G01L 1/20 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress
G01L 5/22 - Apparatus for, or methods of, measuring force, work, mechanical power, or torque, specially adapted for specific purposes for measuring the force applied to control members, e.g. control members of vehicles, triggers
G01L 9/00 - Measuring steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluid or a fluent solid material by electric or magnetic pressure-sensitive elementsTransmitting or indicating the displacement of mechanical pressure-sensitive elements, used to measure the steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluid or fluent solid material, by electric or magnetic means
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
An electronic keyboard (102) comprises a plurality of keys (201) and a housing (501) comprising a cavity (203). The cavity accommodates a circuit board (503), a pressing layer (502) and at least one pressure sensor (504) arranged therein. Each pressure sensor is provided between a lower portion (505) of the cavity and the circuit board, the pressing layer is moveably connected to each of the keys and the circuit board is provided between the pressing layer and the lower portion. Each pressure sensor is connected to the circuit board, and a force-receiving surface (406) of each pressure sensor aligns with a projection area (506) of the corresponding one of the keys.
An input device (102) for an electronic device (101), such as a mobile device which comprises a frame (104), is described. The input device comprises a pressure sensor (501) arranged on an inner side (601) of an outer side wall (103) of the frame, abutting the frame. The pressure sensor is arranged parallel to the outer side wall in a direction configured to receive an application of pressure or force (702) when the application of pressure or force is applied to an outer surface (701) of the outer side wall. The pressure sensor is configured to be electrically connected to a main control unit (203) of the electronic device.
H04M 1/23 - Construction or mounting of dials or of equivalent devicesMeans for facilitating the use thereof
G01L 1/18 - Measuring force or stress, in general using properties of piezo-resistive materials, i.e. materials of which the ohmic resistance varies according to changes in magnitude or direction of force applied to the material
A pressure sensing device (401), comprises a first substrate (201) comprising a first conductive layer (202) and a second substrate (301) comprising a second conductive layer (302). A pressure sensitive layer (305) is electrically connected to the second conductive layer. The pressure sensitive layer and the second substrate comprise a substantially curved cross-sectional profile which protrudes towards the first substrate and the first conductive layer.
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
G01L 1/18 - Measuring force or stress, in general using properties of piezo-resistive materials, i.e. materials of which the ohmic resistance varies according to changes in magnitude or direction of force applied to the material
G01L 1/20 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress
A touch pad (104), comprises a housing (301) comprising a vibration device (305), a cover (302), a capacitive sensing layer (303) electrically connected to a processor (401) and a pressure sensing layer (304) arranged in the housing, also electrically connected to the processor. The capacitive sensing layer is positioned between the cover and the pressure sensing layer. The processor is configured to utilise a signal output from either the capacitive sensing layer or the pressure sensing layer to activate the vibration device.
G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
G06F 3/0354 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of 2D relative movements between the device, or an operating part thereof, and a plane or surface, e.g. 2D mice, trackballs, pens or pucks
An apparatus (401) for providing a switch mechanism comprises a housing (402) and a pressure sensitive device (403) mounted to the housing. An actuator (405) is moveably connected to the housing to enable the actuator to move along an axis (406) towards and away from the pressure sensitive device. A resilient member (406) has a first end (407) connected to the actuator and a second end 408 connected to the pressure sensitive device.
A pressure sensing device comprises a first diaphragm (104) which is deformable and a second diaphragm which is non-deformable (105). One of the diaphragms comprises a pressure sensitive material (115) arranged on its surface. The other diaphragm comprises a detection electrode (114) arranged its surface. The first diaphragm forms part of a force transmission device (103) comprising a cavity (106) having a force transmission fluid therein. The force transmission device is configured to receive an external force and transmit the external force to the first diaphragm, such that the first and second diaphragms are mutually deformed in response to the external force.
G01L 1/20 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress
G01L 5/00 - Apparatus for, or methods of, measuring force, work, mechanical power, or torque, specially adapted for specific purposes
G01L 9/00 - Measuring steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluid or a fluent solid material by electric or magnetic pressure-sensitive elementsTransmitting or indicating the displacement of mechanical pressure-sensitive elements, used to measure the steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluid or fluent solid material, by electric or magnetic means
A foldable electronic device (101) comprises a display device (102) moveable from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration in which the display device folds along a fold axis (103). The electronic foldable device further comprises a force sensing device (603) responsive to a manual interaction on the surface of the display device. The force sensing device is positioned on the fold axis of the display device.
A method of selecting an entity (601) from a list of entities (501), includes providing a manually applied pressure to a touch-sensitive device (201) and activating a range of entities in response to the manually applied pressure. The range of entities comprises first and second lists of entities (501 and 603). Scrolling in a first direction (502) enables selection of an entity from the first list of entities and scrolling in a second direction (602) enables selection of an entity from the second list of entities.
G06F 3/0482 - Interaction with lists of selectable items, e.g. menus
G06F 3/0488 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures
An apparatus (201) for use in a display device comprises a light-emitting layer (203) for providing a light output to the display device and a translucent layer (202) comprising a pressure-sensitive ink. The translucent layer diffuses the light output from the light-emitting layer and the pressure-sensitive ink provides a conductive layer of a sensing device (205) which is configured to measure a force in response to a mechanical interaction.
An interface device (101) comprises a main body (401) comprising an inner cavity (601 ) comprising at least one electronic component (602, 603, 604, 605, 606) therein. The interface device further comprises a sensing array (201) comprising a plurality of sensing elements (202) responsive to mechanical interactions and forms an outer shell which conforms to the main body. The electronic component is in electrical communication with the sensing array and provides a signal to an external device (802, 1001) in response to a mechanical interaction, such as a finger press, to the sensing array.
G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
G06F 3/033 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor
G06F 3/0346 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of the device orientation or free movement in a 3D space, e.g. 3D mice, 6-DOF [six degrees of freedom] pointers using gyroscopes, accelerometers or tilt-sensors
G01L 5/22 - Apparatus for, or methods of, measuring force, work, mechanical power, or torque, specially adapted for specific purposes for measuring the force applied to control members, e.g. control members of vehicles, triggers
An apparatus for sensing a physical attribute is shown, that includes a first track (511) defining a first electrode on a substrate (512), a second track (513) defining a second electrode on said substrate and an active film (514) in cooperation with a first sensor portion (516) of the first electrode and a second sensor portion (517) of the second electrode. The second electrode includes a first extended portion (517) to establish a first additional resistance not cooperating with the active film.
G01L 5/22 - Apparatus for, or methods of, measuring force, work, mechanical power, or torque, specially adapted for specific purposes for measuring the force applied to control members, e.g. control members of vehicles, triggers
G01L 1/20 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress
39.
INTEGRATING PRESSURE SENSITIVE SENSORS WITH LIGHT EMITTING PICTURE ELEMENTS
Pressure sensitive sensors are integrated with light emitting picture elements (111 to 120). Light-emitting picture elements (111 to 120) are arranged upon a substrate (151), such that located light-emitting picture elements are surrounded by a black matrix (122) of non-light-emitting regions. A sensor matrix of pressure sensitive sensor elements (131 to 139) is located at regions of the black matrix, such that sensor elements are aligned at positions over the black matrix and do not occlude the light- emitting picture elements.
G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
H01L 27/32 - Devices consisting of a plurality of semiconductor or other solid-state components formed in or on a common substrate including components using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part with components specially adapted for light emission, e.g. flat-panel displays using organic light-emitting diodes
A method of manufacturing a sensing decal (400), a sensing decal and a method of providing a sensing decal to a device (702) is described. The method of manufacture comprises providing a flexible release layer (401) having a substantially non-uniform surface (405) and printing a conductive ink layer (402) onto the non-uniform surface. An adhesive layer (403) is printed onto the conductive ink layer to produce the sensing decal. The decal can then be applied to a surface (701) of a device and the flexible release layer is removed.
Illumination functionality is combined with a touch-sensing functionality. A first electrical conductor and a second electrical conductor are located on a substrate. A pressure-sensitive element (113) is connected across the conductors and a light-emitting device (114) is also connected between the conductors. A control circuit alternates between energizing the pressure- sensitive element with current flowing in a first direction and driving the light- emitting device with current flowing in an opposite direction.
H01H 13/83 - Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by legends, e.g. Braille, liquid crystal displays, light emitting or optical elements
An apparatus for detecting a mechanical interaction has a plurality of scan lines (202) and a plurality of output lines (204). An intersection between each scan line and output line provides a connection to a plurality of sensing elements (210). Each of the sensing elements comprises a variable resistance element (211) and a voltage amplifier (212). The apparatus includes an output processor (214) which determines a voltage output in parallel at each output line from the plurality of sensing elements on activation of one of the scan lines from a driving processor (213).
Directional data is derived from a manually-interactive-device (102) configured to generate positional data and intensity data. Initial positional data is generated, along with initial intensity data from an initial contact of a finger upon the manually-interactive-device. The manually-interactive-device has a definition sufficiently high to produce a plurality of data-points in response to the application of a single finger. Directional data is produced in response to a finger rolling or tilting operation (901) by generating additional intensity data in which variations occur to intensity values at the previously identified data-point positions.
Manual selection of an entity from a list of entities displayable by scrolling is facilitated. A list (101) of selectable entities is established. A range (1002) is identified of selectable entities (E006 TO E050) within the list. A portion (1003) of the range is displayed and output signals are received in response to manually applied pressure. Scrolling is performed through the range, not directly through the list, at a rate related to the manually applied pressure. The range is reduced during the scrolling operation to remove entities that are clearly not to be selected.
G06F 3/0488 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures
A method of agglomerating nanoparticles to form larger agglomerates is shown. The nanoparticles are mixed with a resin to form a first mixture (803) of agglomerates, having sizes over a range that includes agglomerates considered to be too large, suspended in the resin. A bead milling cylinder (802) produces a second mixture (808) with fewer large agglomerates. A filter (1001) removes the remaining large agglomerates. The resulting mill base is cut with a solvent before deployment.
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
H01C 10/10 - Adjustable resistors adjustable by mechanical pressure or force
H01B 1/20 - Conductive material dispersed in non-conductive organic material
A sensor (102) for detecting input force comprises a housing (103) having a cavity (201 ) and a contact element (105) which is enclosed in the cavity. The contact element and cavity provide a substantially flush profile along their respective surfaces (104, 106). The cavity includes a wall (301, 302, 303) having a sensing device (304) attached thereto and the contact element provides a physical contact between the contact element and the sensing device on application of a mechanical interaction to the surface of the contact element.
G01L 5/22 - Apparatus for, or methods of, measuring force, work, mechanical power, or torque, specially adapted for specific purposes for measuring the force applied to control members, e.g. control members of vehicles, triggers
G01L 1/20 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
The detection of multiple manual interactions upon a touch-pad is shown. Drive lines intersect a scan lines and each intersection between a drive line and a scan line includes an element of variable resistance. A scanning processor energises the drive lines and monitors the scan lines. The scanning processor is configured to identify positions of manual interaction, validate identified positions to identify potentially erroneous positions and remove positions identified as erroneous. However, removed positions are re-introduced when they are not in the vicinity of other identified positions.
G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
A composite material (101) is produced by obtaining a plurality of agglomerates (102), introducing the plurality of agglomerates into a liquid carrier comprising a component capable of solidifying to produce a solidified polymeric material and mixing the plurality of the agglomerates into the liquid carrier (103) to produce a composite material. Each agglomerate is preformed by obtaining a plurality of electrically conductive or semi-conductive particles, mixing the plurality of electrically conductive or semi-conductive particles (201) in a granulation vessel. The mixing step comprises operating the granulation vessel (202) at a Froude number of between 220 and 1100 and adhering the plurality of electrically conductive or semi-conductive particles by adding a granulation binder to a plurality of agglomerates.
A detection element (104) is energised. The detection element is substantially non-conductive without an application of pressure and becomes increasingly conductive in response to pressure application. A processor (101) is interrupted from a low-power dissipation state in response to a first detectable application of pressure by the detection-element. The processor is then configured to monitor further pressure applied to the same detection element.
A flexible sensor (201) comprises a first conductive layer (202) and a second conductive layer (203). The first conductive layer and the second conductive layer define a sensing region (205) for determining an interaction, such as a mechanical interaction. The first conductive layer comprises a first substrate (206) having a plurality of conductive rows (207) printed thereon and the second conductive layer comprises a second substrate 208 having a plurality of columns (209) printed thereon. The first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are constrained by a constraining means (505) which holds the two layers together but permits movement of the layers perpendicular to each other in the sensing region.
G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
patents
