Bag Presence Detection Using Proximity and Motion Sensors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices lack the ability to automatically adjust power states based on environmental conditions, such as being in a bag or outside of one, which limits further customization of power management features and affects user experience, battery duration, and energy conservation.

Innovation Solution

A device equipped with proximity sensors and motion sensors that determine whether it is in a bag or outside by measuring distance and motion, allowing for accurate detection and adjustment of power states accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the device uses only proximity sensor data to detect bag presence, then the device structure remains simple, but detection accuracy is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebag presence detection accuracyVSAvoidsensor system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines proximity sensor data with motion sensor data to detect bag presence. The processor integrates information from both sensor types to determine whether the device is in a bag, thereby improving detection accuracy without requiring a completely new sensing system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The motion sensor, originally designed for motion detection, is also utilized for bag presence detection by analyzing motion patterns. This multi-functional use of existing sensors improves detection capability without adding dedicated hardware for bag detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Use of energy by moving object

If the device transitions to off state when in bag, then energy conservation is improved, but user accessibility is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoiduser accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device transitions to a low power state in advance when bag presence is detected, conserving energy proactively. The system prepares for extended storage by reducing power consumption before the user actually needs to access the device again.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors sensor data and dynamically adjusts power state based on real-time bag presence detection. When the device is removed from the bag, the system detects this change and transitions back to full power, providing responsive feedback-based power management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Enables robust and accurate detection of the device's location, leading to improved user experience, extended battery life, and enhanced energy conservation by automatically adjusting power states based on whether the device is in a bag or outside.

Implementation Method 1

distance measurements generated by at least one proximity sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectProximity sensing:

Implementation Method 2

motion measurements generated by at least one motion sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMotion sensing:

Data Source

PatentUS11821732B2Electronic device including bag detection
Publication Date: 2023.11.21 STMICROELECTRONICS SRL
  • US11821732B2 patent drawing
  • US11821732B2 patent drawing
  • US11821732B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure is directed to a device configured to detect whether the device is in a bag or outside of the bag. The device determines whether the device is in or outside of the bag based on distance measurements generated by at least one proximity sensor and motion measurements generated by at least one motion sensor. By using both distance measurements and motion measurements, the device is able to detect whether the device is in the bag or outside of the bag with high accuracy and robustness.