Three-Dimensional Touch Device with Two Terminals

Adv Mater. 2023 Oct;35(42):e2305697. doi: 10.1002/adma.202305697. Epub 2023 Sep 20.

Abstract

A crossbar array is an essential element that determines the operating position and simplifies the structure of devices. However, in the crossbar array, wiring numerous electrodes to address many positions poses significant challenges. In this study, a method is proposed that utilizes only two electrodes to determine multiple positions. The method significantly simplifies the wiring and device fabrication process. Instead of defining the node location of the crossbar, it is experimentally demonstrated that the x-y-z coordinates can be determined from i) the resistance change as a function of distance, ii) the resistance variation influenced by the electrode composition, and iii) capacitance fluctuation resulting from changes in the dielectric thickness. By employing two-terminal transparent electrodes, a fully functional 3D touch device is successfully fabricated, introducing a groundbreaking approach to simplify input device architectures.

Keywords: 3D touch; capacitive pressure sensors; gradient patterns; inkjet printing; two terminals.

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