Screen status detection using a static charge change sensor

Abstract

Embodiments of this disclosure relate to screen state detection using a static charge change sensor. This disclosure relates to apparatus and methods for performing screen state detection. Screen state detection can be used in conjunction with any device having a flexible display. The apparatus and method utilize a static charge change sensor to detect whether the display is in an open or closed state.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to electronic devices

[0002] and screen state detection. BACKGROUND

[0003] Display technology has been significantly improved. Today, displays such as organic light emitting diode (OLED) displays are bendable and can be folded or rolled onto themselves. Many portable electronic devices have incorporated these displays to form foldable or rollable devices. For example, many smartphones and tablets include foldable displays that resemble a book opening and closing.

[0004] Foldable and rollable devices often include screen state detection in order to detect whether the device is open (where the display is unfolded or unrolled) or closed (where the display is folded or rolled). For example, depending on whether the device is open or closed, the device can turn on or turn off the display.

[0005] Various technologies can be used to perform screen state detection. For example, capacitive sensing, switch mechanisms, and magnetic and optical solutions are common technologies used to perform screen state detection. However, these solutions involve complex algorithms, have high power consumption, and often suffer from noise in the surrounding environment. SUMMARY

[0006] The present disclosure relates to a device and method for performing screen state detection on a bendable display. The screen state detection can be used in conjunction with, for example, foldable and rollable display devices. The device includes an excitation electrode that transmits a key signal, a receiving electrode that detects a change in electrostatic charge, and an electrostatic charge change sensor that measures the change in electrostatic charge received by the receiving electrode. The device decodes a sequence of the measured change in electrostatic charge to determine whether the key signal has been received by the receiving electrode. When the key signal has been received by the receiving electrode, the device determines that the bendable display is in a closed state (e.g., folded or rolled). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0007] In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like features or elements throughout. The dimensions and relative positions of features in the drawings are not necessarily to scale.

[0008] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a device according to embodiments disclosed herein.

[0009] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a device according to another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0010] Figure 3A is a device in an open state according to embodiments disclosed herein.

[0011] Figure 3B It is in a closed state according to the embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 3A The equipment.

[0012] Figure 4A It is an open device according to another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0013] Figure 4B It is in a closed state according to the embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 4A The equipment.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a method for performing screen state detection according to embodiments disclosed herein.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a method for performing screen state detection according to another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0016] Figure 7A It is an open device according to another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0017] Figure 7B It is in a closed state according to the embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 7A The equipment. Detailed Implementation

[0018] In the following description, certain specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various aspects of the disclosed subject matter. However, the disclosed subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In some cases, well-known structures and methods for manufacturing electronic components, sensors, and flexible screens have not been described in detail to avoid obscuring the description of other aspects of this disclosure.

[0019] Unless the context otherwise requires, throughout the specification and the following claims, the word “comprising” and its variations, such as “including” and “comprise”, shall be interpreted in an open, inclusive sense, that is, as “including but not limited to”.

[0020] Throughout this specification, references to "an embodiment" or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" appearing throughout the specification do not necessarily refer to the same aspect. Furthermore, particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0021] As mentioned above, various techniques, such as capacitive sensing, switching mechanisms, and magnetic and optical solutions, can be used to perform screen status detection on devices with flexible displays. However, these solutions involve complex algorithms, have high power consumption, and are often susceptible to noise from the surrounding environment.

[0022] This disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for performing screen state detection on a flexible display. The apparatus and method utilize an electrostatic charge change sensor to detect whether the display is in an open or closed state. The electrostatic charge change sensor provides a low-cost and low-power solution for screen state detection.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of device 10 according to an embodiment disclosed herein. Device 10 can be any type of electronic device with a flexible display, such as a foldable or rollable mobile device, e-reader, cellular phone, and tablet computer. The device includes a display 12, a processor 14, a static charge change sensor 16, an excitation electrode 18, and a receiving electrode 20. In one embodiment, device 10 includes an equal number of excitation electrodes and receiving electrodes.

[0024] Display 12 is a flexible display that can be bent (e.g., folded or rolled). When display 12 is in the open state, display 12 is not bent (e.g., not folded or rolled). When display 12 is in the closed state, display 12 bends (e.g., folded or rolled). Display 12 can be any type of flexible display, such as a light-emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, and an electronic ink display.

[0025] Processor 14 is electrically coupled to electrostatic charge change sensor 16. Processor 14 receives electrostatic charge change data from electrostatic charge change sensor 16. The electrostatic charge change data represents the measurement result by electrostatic charge change sensor 16. As will be discussed in further detail below, processor 14 decodes and verifies the electrostatic charge change data to determine whether display 12 is in an open or closed state. Processor 14 can be any type of processor, controller, or microcontroller capable of processing data.

[0026] The electrostatic charge change sensor 16 is electrically coupled to the processor 14, the excitation electrode 18, and the receiving electrode 20. In one embodiment, the electrostatic charge change sensor 16 is embedded in a multi-sensor device comprising multiple different sensors (e.g., motion sensors, optical sensors, pressure sensors, etc.). The electrostatic charge change sensor 16 measures the change in electrostatic charge (i.e., the change in electrostatic charge) on the receiving electrode 20. Measurements are performed in passive mode via a high-impedance stage of the electrostatic charge change sensor 16, without an internal source of charge change. The electrostatic charge change sensor 16 provides the measured change in electrostatic charge as electrostatic charge change data to the processor 14.

[0027] The electrostatic charge change sensor 16 includes a first input terminal Q. + (Positive terminal) and second input terminal Q － (Negative terminal). The electrostatic charge change sensor 16 uses the first input Q. + Second input Q － The change in static charge on the receiving electrode 20 is measured. For example, the static charge change sensor 16 measures the change in static charge as a change in charge at the first input Q. + Second input Q － The difference between the received signals. Note that the electrostatic charge change measurement may not be based on a single data point. Instead, the electrostatic charge change sensor 16 may have a sampling rate, for example, in the range of 200 Hz to 800 Hz, and determine the electrostatic charge change measurement based on multiple measurements. In one embodiment, capacitor 22 is electrically coupled to the first input Q. + Second input Q － Between. Capacitor 22 receives and stores the static charge received by receiving electrode 20. In this embodiment, static charge change sensor 16 measures the static charge stored in capacitor 22.

[0028] The static charge change sensor 16 includes various electronic components (e.g., capacitors, resistors, amplifiers, etc.) to measure static charge changes. For example, the static charge change sensor 16 includes an analog-to-digital converter for converting the measured static charge change signal into a digital value and outputting the static charge change data as a digital value.

[0029] The electrostatic charge change sensor 16 also generates and transmits a key signal to the excitation electrode 18. As will be discussed in further detail below, the key signal is a key-encoded signal. Upon determining that the receiving electrode 20 has received the key signal, the processor 14 determines that the display 12 is in a closed state.

[0030] An excitation electrode 18 is electrically coupled to a static charge change sensor 16. The excitation electrode 18 is made of a conductive material such as copper. The excitation electrode 18 receives and transmits a key signal from the static charge change sensor 16. The excitation electrode 18 transmits the key signal repeatedly (e.g., every 300 to 400 milliseconds). In one embodiment, the excitation electrode 18 does not transmit the key signal between consecutive transmissions (e.g., idles). For example, the excitation electrode 18 pauses transmission for 100 to 200 milliseconds after each transmission of the key signal.

[0031] The geometry of the excitation electrode 18 determines the directionality of the electrode. In one embodiment, the excitation electrode 18 is square or rectangular.

[0032] The receiving electrode 20 is electrically coupled to the electrostatic charge change sensor 16. That is, the receiving electrode 20 is electrically coupled to the first input Q of the electrostatic charge change sensor 16 via the capacitor 22. + Second input Q － The receiving electrode 20 is made of a conductive material such as copper. The receiving electrode 20 receives changes in static charge in the surrounding environment. These changes in static charge can be generated from various sources, such as human movement, the presence of alternating current (AC) power lines, and key signals transmitted by the excitation electrode 18.

[0033] When the receiving electrode 20 approaches the excitation electrode 18 (e.g., within 1 to 15 mm of the excitation electrode 18), the receiving electrode 20 receives the key signal transmitted by the excitation electrode 18. As will be discussed in further detail below, the receiving electrode 20, which receives the key signal, indicates that the display 12 is in a closed state.

[0034] The geometry of the receiving electrode 20 determines the sensitivity of the electrode. In one embodiment, the receiving electrode 20 is square or rectangular.

[0035] As will be discussed in further detail below, the excitation electrode 18 and the receiving electrode 20 are located inside the housing of the device 10 and directly below the display 12.

[0036] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the electrostatic charge change sensor 16 generates and transmits a key signal to the excitation electrode 18, which in turn repeatedly transmits the key signal. However, the key signal may also be generated by other components within the device 10. Figure 2 This is a block diagram of device 10 according to another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0037] Similar to Figure 1 The embodiment shown, Figure 2 The device 10 includes a display 12, a processor 14, a static charge change sensor 16, an excitation electrode 18, and a receiving electrode 20. However, withFigure 1 In contrast to the illustrated embodiment, processor 14 generates a key signal and transmits it to excitation electrode 18, instead of electrostatic charge change sensor 16. Thus, processor 14 performs both the generation and transmission of the key signal, and the decoding and verification of the electrostatic charge change data. In this embodiment, it is not necessary to notify electrostatic charge change sensor 16 of the key used to generate the key signal.

[0038] Figure 3A The device 10 is in the open state according to the embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 3B yes Figure 3A The device 10 shown is in a closed state. Figure 3A and 3B This illustrates a scenario where device 10 is a foldable device. (See also...) Figure 3A and 3B It is beneficial.

[0039] As described above, device 10 includes a display 12, a processor 14, a static charge change sensor 16, an excitation electrode 18, and a receiving electrode 20. The processor 14, the static charge change sensor 16, the excitation electrode 18, and the receiving electrode 20 are located within a housing or enclosure 24 of device 10. The housing 24 surrounds the internal components of device 10.

[0040] The excitation electrode 18 is located on the side of portion 30 opposite to the processor 14, the electrostatic charge change sensor 16, and the receiving electrode 20. In other words, the excitation electrode 18 is located at the first end of the display 12, while the processor 14, the electrostatic charge change sensor 16, and the receiving electrode 20 are located at the second end of the display 12 opposite to the first end. Furthermore, the processor 14, the electrostatic charge change sensor 16, the excitation electrode 18, and the receiving electrode 20 are located directly below the display 12. In one embodiment, the processor 14, the electrostatic charge change sensor 16, the excitation electrode 18, and the receiving electrode 20 are located on a printed circuit board on the surface of the housing 24 facing the display 12.

[0041] Device 10 also includes shielding members 26. Shielding members 26 prevent or reduce noise interference from the surrounding environment from the signals emitted by the excitation electrode 18 and the signals received by the receiving electrode 20. In one embodiment, each shielding member 26 is grounded. In one embodiment, as... Figure 3A and 3B As shown, the shield 26 is aligned with the excitation electrode 18 and the receiving electrode 20 respectively, and is spaced from the display 12 through the excitation electrode 18 and the receiving electrode 20.

[0042] like Figure 3AAs shown, in the open state, the display 12 is not folded and is flat. The first end of the display 12 is spaced apart from the second end of the display 12 opposite to the first end. The excitation electrode 18 and the receiving electrode 20 do not face each other. The sides of the excitation electrode 18 and the receiving electrode 20 facing the display 12 face the same direction. In the open state, the receiving electrode 20 cannot receive or detect the key signal generated by the excitation electrode 18.

[0043] like Figure 3B As shown, in the closed state, the display 12 folds itself along direction 28. The first end is closer to the second end in the closed state than in the open state. The display 12 is bent at portion 30 of the display 12. The side of the excitation electrode 18 facing the display 12 faces each other. The side of the receiving electrode 20 facing the display 12 faces each other, and the excitation electrode 18 and the receiving electrode 20 are directly aligned with each other. Furthermore, the back of the excitation electrode 18 (i.e., Figure 3B The shield 26, which directly covers the excitation electrode 18, passes through the excitation electrode 18 and the receiving electrode 20 and is connected to the back of the receiving electrode 20 (i.e., Figure 3B The shield 26 is positioned directly below the receiving electrode 20. In the closed state, the excitation electrode 18 and the receiving electrode 20 are close to each other (e.g., within 1 to 15 mm of each other), enabling the receiving electrode 20 to receive and detect the key signal transmitted by the excitation electrode 18.

[0044] Figure 4A The device 10 is in the open state according to another embodiment disclosed herein. Figure 4B yes Figure 4A The device 10 shown is in a closed state. Figure 4A and 4B This illustrates a case where device 10 is a rollable device. (See attached image.) Figure 4A and 4B It is beneficial.

[0045] Similar to Figure 3A and 3B The embodiment shown, Figure 4A and 4B The device 10 includes a display 12, a processor 14, a static charge change sensor 16, an excitation electrode 18, a receiving electrode 20, and a shield 26. However, with Figure 3A and 3B Compared to the illustrated embodiment, the display 12 is a rollable display located between the first housing 32 and the second housing 34, coupling the first housing 32 and the second housing 34 to each other. The excitation electrode 18 and the shield 26 are located within the first housing 32; the processor 14, the electrostatic charge change sensor 16, the receiving electrode 20, and the shield 26 are located within the second housing 34. The sides of the excitation electrode 18 and the receiving electrode 20 facing the display 12 face each other.

[0046] like Figure 4A As shown, in the open state, the display 12 is not curled and is flat. The excitation electrode 18 and the receiving electrode 20 are spaced apart from each other through the display 12. The excitation electrode 18 and the receiving electrode 20 are spaced apart by a sufficient distance such that the receiving electrode 20 cannot receive and detect the key signal generated by the excitation electrode 18.

[0047] like Figure 4B As shown, in the closed state, the display 12 rolls itself in direction 36. The first housing 32 and the second housing 34 are adjacent to each other (e.g., in physical contact), and the excitation electrode 18 and the receiving electrode 20 are directly aligned with each other. Furthermore, the shield 26 adjacent to the excitation electrode 18 (i.e., within the first housing 32) is spaced apart from the shield 26 adjacent to the receiving electrode 20 (i.e., within the second housing 34) by the excitation electrode 18 and the receiving electrode 20. The excitation electrode 18 and the receiving electrode 20 are close to each other (e.g., within 1 to 15 mm), such that the receiving electrode 20 can receive and detect the key signal transmitted by the excitation electrode 18.

[0048] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a method 38 for performing screen state detection according to embodiments disclosed herein. Method 38 is performed by device 10.

[0049] In block 39, screen detection is initialized. In one embodiment, screen detection is performed periodically at fixed intervals. In another embodiment, screen detection begins in response to motion detected by a motion sensor (e.g., accelerometer, gyroscope, etc.) of device 10.

[0050] In box 40, select the key. The key is a data word consisting of multiple bits. For example, the key could be 10110111. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the key is selected by the electrostatic charge change sensor 16. Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, the key is selected by the processor 14.

[0051] In block 42, a key signal is generated and transmitted from excitation electrode 18. The key signal is a signal encoded using the key generated in block 40. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the key signal is generated by the electrostatic charge change sensor 16. Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, the key signal is generated by processor 14.

[0052] The key signal is generated by interleaving zeros into the key. For example, the key 10110111 is modified to 1000101000101010, and 1000101000101010 is encoded into the key signal. As a result, the key signal has twice the number of bits as the key (e.g., an 8-bit key interleaved with zeros will have 16 bits). Because the electrostatic charge change sensor 16 measures the change or shift of electrostatic charge on the receiving electrode 20, zeros are interleaved into the key. Thus, in order for the electrostatic charge change sensor 16 to correctly detect a 1-bit value, the key signal should switch from a 0-bit value to a 1-bit value.

[0053] Each bit of the key signal is transmitted serially from the excitation electrode 18. For example, the bits of the key signal may be transmitted every 15 to 25 milliseconds. The transmission of the key signal is repeated while transmitting the entire key signal (e.g., all bits of 1000101000101010). For example, the key signal may be transmitted every 300 to 400 milliseconds. In one embodiment, the excitation electrode 18 does not transmit the key signal between key signal transmissions (e.g., idles). For example, the excitation electrode 18 pauses transmission for 100 to 200 milliseconds after each key signal transmission.

[0054] Blocks 44, 46, 48, 50, and 52 are executed concurrently with blocks 40 and 42. In block 44, processor 14 receives electrostatic charge change data from electrostatic charge change sensor 16. Specifically, receiving electrode 20 detects and receives electrostatic charge in the surrounding environment, electrostatic charge change sensor 16 measures the change in electrostatic charge on receiving electrode 20, and processor 14 receives the measurement of the change in electrostatic charge by electrostatic charge change sensor 16 as electrostatic charge change data.

[0055] In one embodiment, the electrostatic charge change sensor 16 measures electrostatic charge change synchronously with the transmission of bits of the key signal from the excitation electrode 18. For example, the excitation electrode 18 transmits one bit of the key signal every 20 milliseconds, and the electrostatic charge change sensor 16 outputs an electrostatic charge change measurement every 20 milliseconds (i.e., after each bit transmission). As described above, the electrostatic charge change measurement may not be based on a single data point. Instead, the electrostatic charge change sensor 16 may have a sampling rate, for example, in the range of 200 Hz to 800 Hz, and the electrostatic charge change measurement is determined based on multiple measurements. Therefore, for each bit transmitted every 20 milliseconds, the electrostatic charge change will be measured, for example, 4 to 16 times, before the output electrostatic charge change measurement.

[0056] In block 46, processor 14 decodes the electrostatic charge change data received from electrostatic charge change sensor 16. Processor 14 decodes the electrostatic charge change data to extract the bit pattern of the electrostatic data. For example, if the electrostatic data indicates that the electrostatic charge change measured by electrostatic charge change sensor 16 (e.g., the voltage level of the measured electrostatic charge change) is below a threshold, processor 14 determines that receiving electrode 20 has received zero bits, and if the electrostatic data indicates that the electrostatic charge change measured by electrostatic charge change sensor 16 (e.g., the voltage level of the measured electrostatic charge change) is equal to or greater than a threshold, it determines that receiving electrode 20 has received 1 bit.

[0057] In one embodiment, the processor 14 collects electrostatic charge change data over a period of time and decodes the electrostatic charge change data after receiving all bits of the key signal. For example, if the key signal has 16 bits, the processor 14 collects the equivalent of 16 bits of electrostatic charge change data and decodes the data after transmitting the last bit (the 16th bit).

[0058] In block 48, processor 14 determines whether the decoded electrostatic charge change data matches the key used to generate the key signal in block 40. For example, processor 14 determines whether the decoded electrostatic charge change data has a bit pattern of 10110111.

[0059] As mentioned above Figure 3B and 4B As discussed, receiving electrode 20 will receive the key signal transmitted by excitation electrode 18, which is in a closed state. Therefore, when device 10 is in a closed state, the decoded electrostatic charge change data will match the key in block 48. Therefore, if the decoded electrostatic charge change data in block 48 matches the key, method 38 moves to block 50, where processor 14 determines that device 10 is in a closed state.

[0060] Conversely, as mentioned above Figure 3A and 4A As discussed, when device 10 is in the open state, receiving electrode 20 will not receive the key signal transmitted by excitation electrode 18. Therefore, when device 10 is in the open state, the decoded electrostatic charge change data will not match the key in block 48. Therefore, in the case that the decoded electrostatic charge change data in block 48 does not match the key, method 38 moves to block 52, where processor 14 determines that device 10 is in the open state.

[0061] In some cases, in block 48, processor 14 cannot determine whether the decoded electrostatic charge change data matches the key. For example, the electrostatic charge change data may be unreadable because the electrostatic data is saturated due to, for example, human contact with the device or is noisy. In this case, processor 14 does not make a decision in block 48, and method 38 returns to block 44, in which processor 14 receives additional electrostatic charge change data. The display state (open or closed) of device 10 does not change.

[0062] When a closed state is determined in box 50 or an open state is determined in box 52, the determined state can be output for further processing. For example, the power state of device 10 can be adjusted based on whether device 10 is in a closed or open state.

[0063] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a method 54 for performing screen state detection according to another embodiment disclosed herein. Figure 5 In contrast to method 38, method 54 determines whether device 10 is in a closed or open state based on the number of valid signals and invalid signals received by receiving electrode 20.

[0064] In box 56, similar to Figure 5 Box 40 in the diagram generates an N-bit key. As mentioned above, the key is a data word consisting of multiple bits. For example, the key could be 10110111. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the key is generated by the electrostatic charge change sensor 16. Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, the key is generated by processor 14.

[0065] In box 58, similar to Figure 5 In box 42, a 2N-bit key signal is generated and transmitted from excitation electrode 18. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the key signal is generated by the electrostatic charge change sensor 16. Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, the key signal is generated by processor 14.

[0066] As described above, the key signal is generated by interleaving zeros into the key. For example, the key 10110111 is modified to 1000101000101010, and 1000101000101010 is encoded into the key signal. As a result, the key signal consists of 2N bits, which is twice the number of N bits generated in block 56.

[0067] Furthermore, as described above, each bit of the key signal is transmitted serially from the excitation electrode 18. For example, the bits of the key signal may be transmitted once every 15 to 25 milliseconds. The transmission of the key signal is repeated when transmitting the entire key signal (e.g., all bits of 1000101000101010). For example, the key signal may be transmitted once every 300 to 400 milliseconds.

[0068] In block 60, receiving electrode 20 detects and receives static charge in the surrounding environment, and static charge change sensor 16 measures the change in static charge received on receiving electrode 20.

[0069] In block 62, processor 14 determines whether the transfer count is equal to 2N, where 2N is the number of bits included in the key signal. The transfer count represents the total number of potential or candidate bits of the key signal currently transferred by excitation electrode 18. The transfer count is initialized to zero (i.e., it is zero when method 54 begins at block 56) and incremented in block 78, which will be discussed in further detail below.

[0070] If the transmission count is not equal to 2N, method 54 moves to block 64. In block 64, processor 14 receives electrostatic charge change data from electrostatic charge change sensor 16. The electrostatic charge change data represents the measurement of electrostatic charge change in block 60. In other words, the electrostatic charge change is a measurement of the bit potential of the key signal.

[0071] In block 66, processor 14 filters the static charge change data to remove certain frequencies (e.g., noise, static charge changes caused by unwanted sources such as AC power lines, etc.) from the static charge change data. Processor 14 may apply a low-pass filter, a high-pass filter, a band-pass filter, or a combination thereof to the static charge change data.

[0072] In block 68, processor 14 determines whether the electrostatic charge change data is saturated. If the electrostatic charge change data is saturated, the electrostatic charge change on receiving electrode 20 is outside the readable range of electrostatic charge change sensor 16. Saturation of electrostatic data can be caused, for example, by a person touching receiving electrode 20.

[0073] In one embodiment, if the static charge change data indicates that the static charge change measured by the static charge change sensor 16 in block 60 (e.g., the voltage level of the measured static charge change) is greater than a threshold for a defined time period, the processor 14 determines that the static charge change data is saturated. In another embodiment, if the static charge change data indicates that the static charge change measured by the static charge change sensor 16 in block 60 (e.g., the voltage level of the measured static charge change) is not greater than a threshold for a defined time period, the processor 14 determines that the static charge change data is unsaturated.

[0074] If the electrostatic charge change data is saturated, method 54 moves to box 70. In box 70, processor 14 determines that the reception of receiving electrode 20 is saturated. Therefore, the display state (open or closed) of device 10 does not change. Method 54 then moves to box 84.

[0075] In block 84, the transmission count, along with the valid signal count and invalid signal count, is reset to zero. The valid signal count and invalid signal count will be discussed in further detail below for blocks 74 and 76, respectively. By resetting the transmission count, valid signal count, and invalid signal count to zero, processor 14 restarts the check for key signal reception in the first initial bit. Method 54 then returns to block 60, where receiving electrode 20 detects and receives another change in static charge in the surrounding environment, and static charge change sensor 16 measures the change in static charge on receiving electrode 20.

[0076] Returning to box 68, if the electrostatic charge change data is not saturated, method 54 moves to box 72. In box 72, processor 14 determines whether the electrostatic charge change data is valid or invalid.

[0077] In one embodiment, the processor 14 determines that the static charge change data is valid if (1) the static charge change sensor 16 measures a static charge change (e.g., the voltage level of the measured static charge) greater than a threshold in block 60, and (2) the receiving electrode 20 receives the static charge change in block 60 in a defined time slot (e.g., the time slot in which the excitation electrode 18 transmits the bit of the key signal).

[0078] In one embodiment, if the static charge change data indicates that (1) the static charge change measured by the static charge change sensor 16 in block 60 (e.g., the voltage level of the static charge change measured in block 58) is not greater than a threshold, or (2) the receiving electrode 20 receives the static charge change outside the determined time slot in block 60, the processor 14 determines that the static charge change data is invalid.

[0079] In one embodiment, the threshold in box 72 is less than the threshold used in box 68.

[0080] If the electrostatic charge change data is valid, method 54 moves to box 74. In box 74, the valid signal count is incremented. The valid signal count represents the total number of valid electrostatic data generated by the electrostatic charge change sensor 16. The valid signal count is initialized to zero (i.e., the valid signal count is zero when method 54 begins at box 56). Method 54 then moves to box 78.

[0081] In box 78, the transfer count discussed in box 62 is incremented. Method 54 then moves back to box 60 to detect and receive another change in static charge in the surrounding environment.

[0082] Returning to box 72, if the electrostatic charge change data is invalid, method 54 moves to box 76. In box 76, the invalid signal count is incremented. The invalid signal count represents the total number of invalid electrostatic data generated by the electrostatic charge change sensor 16. The invalid signal count is initialized to zero (i.e., the invalid signal count is zero when method 54 begins at box 56). Method 54 then moves to box 78.

[0083] As described above, in box 78, the transfer count is incremented. Method 54 then moves back to box 60 to detect and receive another change in static charge in the surrounding environment.

[0084] Returning to box 62, if the transmission count is equal to 2N, the method moves to box 80. When the transmission count is 2N, the receiving electrode 20 may have already received all 2N bits of the key signal. In box 80, the processor 14 determines whether the invalid signal count is less than the invalid signal threshold.

[0085] If the invalid signal count is not less than the invalid signal threshold, method 54 moves to block 82. In block 82, processor 14 determines that the received signal noise received by receiving electrode 20 is too large. Therefore, the display state (open or closed) of device 10 does not change. Method 54 then moves to block 84.

[0086] As described above, in block 84, the transmission count, valid signal count, and invalid signal count are reset to zero. By resetting the transmission count, valid signal count, and invalid signal count to zero, processor 14 restarts its check for key signal reception in the first initial bit. Method 54 then moves back to block 60 to detect and receive another change in static charge in the surrounding environment.

[0087] Returning to box 80, if the invalid signal count is less than the invalid signal threshold, method 54 moves to box 86. In box 86, processor 14 determines whether the valid signal count is greater than the valid signal threshold.

[0088] If the valid signal count is not greater than the valid signal threshold, method 54 moves to block 88. In block 88, processor 14 determines that device 10 is in the open state as described above. Method 54 then moves to block 84, where the transmission count, valid signal count, and invalid signal count are reset to zero.

[0089] Returning to block 86, if the valid signal count is greater than the valid signal threshold, method 54 moves to block 90. ​​In block 90, processor 14 determines that device 10 is in the closed state as described above. Method 54 then moves to block 84, where the transmission count, valid signal count, and invalid signal count are reset to zero.

[0090] In the above embodiments, device 10 includes an excitation electrode 18 and a corresponding receiving electrode 20. However, device 10 may include any number of excitation and receiving electrodes. For example, Figure 7A The device 10 is in the open state according to another embodiment disclosed herein. Figure 7B yes Figure 7A The device 10 shown is in a closed state. Figure 7A and 7B The illustrated embodiments and Figure 3A and 3B The illustrated embodiment is the same, except that device 10 includes two adjacent excitation electrodes 18 and two adjacent receiving electrodes 20. In the closed state, each excitation electrode 18 is aligned with its corresponding receiving electrode 20. The excitation electrodes 18 simultaneously transmit a key signal, and the receiving electrodes 20 simultaneously receive static charge.

[0091] like Figure 7A and 7B As shown, a differential configuration including two excitation electrodes 18 and two receiving electrodes 20 allows for reception and transmission. In this embodiment, a first key signal (e.g., 10100011) is emitted from the first excitation electrode (e.g., ...). Figure 7B The leftmost excitation electrode is transmitted, and a second key signal (e.g., 01011100) complementary to the first key signal is transmitted from the second excitation electrode (e.g., ...). Figure 7B The rightmost excitation electrode is transmitted. In such a way... Figure 7B In the closed state shown, the first receiving electrode (e.g., Figure 7B The leftmost receiving electrode receives the first key signal from the first excitation electrode, and the second receiving electrode (e.g., Figure 7B The rightmost excitation electrode receives the second key signal from the second excitation electrode. The first receiving electrode is electrically coupled to the first input terminal Q of the electrostatic charge change sensor 16. + (Positive terminal) The second receiving electrode 12B is electrically coupled to the second input terminal Q of the electrostatic charge change sensor 16. － (Negative terminal). Thus, the static charge change sensor 16 measures the static charge change as a function of the first input Q. + Second input Q － The difference between the received signals.

[0092] When the electrostatic charge change sensor 16 measures the first input Q + Second input Q － When the difference between the two inputs is equal, the noise shared by the two inputs will be eliminated or at least strongly attenuated. Furthermore, since the first and key signals are at the first input Q... + Second input terminal Q －The components are complementary and out of phase, thus doubling the data signal. As a result, the signal-to-noise ratio of device 10 is greatly improved.

[0093] The various embodiments disclosed herein provide apparatus and methods for performing screen state detection. Screen state detection can be used in conjunction with any device having a flexible display. The apparatus and methods utilize electrostatic charge change sensors to detect whether the display is in an open or closed state.

[0094] The various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. These and other changes can be made to the embodiments based on the detailed description above. Generally, the terminology used in the following claims should not be construed as limiting the claims to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and claims, but should be interpreted to include all possible embodiments and the full scope of the authorized equivalents of these claims. Therefore, the claims are not limited to this disclosure.

Claims

1. A device comprising: a bendable display; a first excitation electrode configured to transmit a first key signal; a first receiving electrode configured to receive a static charge change in an ambient environment; a static charge change sensor configured to measure the static charge change and generate static charge change data based on the measured static charge change; and a processor configured to determine whether the bendable display is in an open state or in a closed state based on the static charge change data and the first key signal; wherein the processor is configured to determine that the bendable display is in the open state if the static charge change data does not match a key included in the first key signal, and determine that the bendable display is in the closed state if the static charge change data matches the key included in the first key signal.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to generate the first key signal and provide the first key signal to the first excitation electrode for transmission.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the static charge change sensor is configured to generate the first key signal and provide the first key signal to the first excitation electrode for transmission.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the bendable display includes a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first end is spaced apart from the second end in the open state, and the first end is closer to the second end in the closed state than in the open state.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the bendable display is a foldable display in an unfolded state in the open state and in a folded state in the closed state.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the bendable display is a rollable display in an unrolled state in the open state and in a rolled state in the closed state.

7. The device of claim 1, further comprising: a first shield, the first excitation electrode is between the bendable display and the first shield; and a second shield, the first receiving electrode is between the bendable display and the second shield.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to determine a number of times valid static charge change data has been generated by the static charge change sensor, and the processor is configured to determine that the bendable display is in the open state if the number is greater than a threshold, and determine that the bendable display is in the closed state if the number is not greater than the threshold.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to determine a number of times invalid static charge change data has been generated by the static charge change sensor, and the processor is configured to determine that the static charge change is noise if the number is not less than a threshold. ​ ​ 10. The device of claim 1, wherein the first key signal is a key with zeros interposed between bits of the key.

11. The device of claim 1, further comprising: a second excitation electrode positioned adjacent to the first excitation electrode and configured to transmit a second key signal that is complementary to the first key signal; and a second receiving electrode positioned adjacent to the first receiving electrode and configured to receive the electrostatic charge variation.

12. A method comprising: generating a key signal based on a key; transmitting, by an excitation electrode, the key signal; receiving, by a receiving electrode, an electrostatic charge variation in an ambient environment; measuring, by an electrostatic charge variation sensor, the electrostatic charge variation; generating, by the electrostatic charge variation sensor, electrostatic charge variation data based on the measured electrostatic charge variation; and determining, by a processor, whether a bendable display is in an open state or in a closed state based on the electrostatic charge variation data and the key signal; wherein determining whether the bendable display is in the open state or in the closed state comprises determining that the bendable display is in the open state if the electrostatic charge variation data does not match the key signal, and determining that the bendable display is in the closed state if the electrostatic charge variation data matches the key signal.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the generating of the key signal is performed by the electrostatic charge variation sensor.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the generating of the key signal is performed by the processor.

15. The method of claim 12, wherein the generating of the key comprises interposing zeros between bits of the key.

16. A method comprising: transmitting, by an excitation electrode, a key signal; receiving, by a receiving electrode, an electrostatic charge variation in an ambient environment; measuring, by an electrostatic charge variation sensor, the electrostatic charge variation; generating, by the electrostatic charge variation sensor, electrostatic charge variation data based on the measured electrostatic charge variation; determining, by a processor, a first number, the first number indicating a number of times that valid electrostatic charge variation data has been generated by the electrostatic charge variation sensor; determining, by the processor, a second number, the second number indicating a number of times that invalid electrostatic charge variation data has been generated by the electrostatic charge variation sensor; and determining, by the processor, whether a bendable display is in an open state or in a closed state based on the first number and the second number; wherein determining whether the bendable display is in the open state or in the closed state comprises determining that the bendable display is in the open state if the number of times that the valid electrostatic charge variation data is generated does not exceed a valid signal threshold, and determining that the bendable display is in the closed state if the number of times that the valid electrostatic charge variation data is generated exceeds the valid signal threshold.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: filtering, by the processor, the electrostatic charge variation data to remove signals in a range of frequencies.

18. The method of claim 16, further comprising: determining, by the processor, whether the electrostatic charge variation data is saturated, the determining of the first number and the second number being performed if the processor determines that the electrostatic charge variation data is not saturated.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein the processor determines that the electrostatic charge variation data is valid if the electrostatic charge variation data indicates (1) a voltage level of the measured electrostatic charge variation is greater than a threshold, and (2) the receiving electrode received the electrostatic charge variation in a time slot in which the energizing electrode transmitted a bit of the key signal, and the processor determines that the electrostatic charge variation data is invalid if the electrostatic charge variation data indicates (1) the voltage level of the measured electrostatic charge variation is not greater than a threshold, or (2) the receiving electrode did not receive the electrostatic charge variation in the time slot.

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