Antenna Integrated Capacitance Sensor for Grip Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic apparatuses face challenges in identifying grip locations due to the use of multiple capacitance sensors, which occupy space and increase costs.
Innovation Solution
A reduced number of capacitance sensors are used to identify various grip locations by integrating them with multiple antennas, optimizing space and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple capacitance sensors are used to identify various grip locations, then grip location identification capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is designed to perform dual functions: RF communication and capacitance sensing for grip detection. By making the antenna serve multiple purposes, the patent eliminates the need for separate capacitance sensors while maintaining grip location identification capability across multiple zones
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the RF communication antenna and capacitance sensor into a single integrated structure. The antenna itself functions as the sensing element, merging two previously separate components into one, thereby reducing device complexity and component count
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple capacitance sensors are used to identify various grip locations, then grip location identification capability is improved, but mounting space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna structure is designed to serve dual purposes as both an RF communication element and a capacitance sensing element. This multi-functionality allows the same physical structure to enable grip detection at multiple locations without requiring additional mounting space for separate sensors
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the antenna and capacitance sensor into a single integrated component, the patent eliminates the need for separate mounting spaces for multiple sensors. The combined structure utilizes the existing antenna footprint, thereby conserving valuable mounting space within the device
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for efficient identification of grip locations while minimizing the number of sensors and saving space and costs.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetic field may be generated by a current flowing on the antenna
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic field change (or capacitance change) may be caused when a dielectric substance approaches the electronic apparatus
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
According to an embodiment of the present invention, an electronic apparatus may comprise: a first antenna; a second antenna; a communication circuit set to transmit and/or receive a signal in the frequency band selected or designated via the first antenna and/or the second antenna; a sensor IC which is electrically connected to the first antenna and the second antenna and measures a capacitance; a first capacitor connected to a first electrical path between the first antenna and the sensor IC; and a second capacitor connected to a second electrical path between the second antenna and the sensor IC. Various other embodiments may be possible.