Biometric Sensor with Flash LED and Sequential Driver
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biometric sensor arrangements for determining heart rate are often large and costly, and there is a need for a more efficient and cost-effective solution that can integrate with mobile devices without interference between different radiation sources.
Innovation Solution
A biometric sensor arrangement comprising a first and second radiation source, a driver, and a signal conditioning unit, where the driver controls both sources to prevent interference, allowing for combined functionality with mobile devices, and the second radiation source can be used for additional purposes such as flash functionality, with the first source being protected against electrostatic discharge and the second source capable of high current operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single light source is used for biometric sensing, then the device is simple and cost-effective, but it cannot provide additional functions such as flash capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a biometric sensing light source (first light source) and a flash light source (second light source) into a single integrated device. The driver circuit merges the control of both light sources, and the housing integrates both emission paths through a single window, achieving functionality consolidation without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The device achieves multi-functionality by enabling the same hardware platform to perform both biometric sensing (heart rate monitoring) and flash photography functions. The driver can selectively activate either the first or second light source based on operational mode, making the device universal in its capabilities
2Adaptability or versatility
If two separate light sources are used for biometric sensing and flash functions, then versatility is improved, but interference between the two sources occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The driver circuit implements periodic action by sequentially activating the first light source for biometric sensing and the second light source for flash functions. The control alternates between the two light sources in distinct time periods, preventing simultaneous operation and eliminating mutual interference while maintaining both functionalities
Solution Approach 2:
The driver circuit performs preliminary action by pre-configuring the operational states of both light sources and establishing a control sequence that prevents interference. The selective activation mechanism is prepared in advance to ensure that only one light source operates at any given time, thereby protecting signal quality
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple radiation sources are integrated into a mobile device, then device functionality is enhanced, but the number of components and production complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple radiation sources (biometric LED and flash LED) into a single integrated module with a unified driver circuit and shared housing structure. This consolidation reduces the total component count and simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining both biometric sensing and flash functions
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device achieves universality by combining biometric sensing and flash capabilities in a single module that can be manufactured as one unit. The shared housing window, common driver circuit, and integrated layout reduce production steps and simplify assembly compared to separate components
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
The solution enables a compact, cost-effective biometric sensor that can accurately measure heart rate and other parameters like oxygen concentration, while integrating with mobile devices, reducing production complexity and improving signal quality by minimizing the number of components and emissions.
Implementation Method 1
The light source emits radiation which is spread through the tissue to the capillaries. The light sensor then measures the optical response through the skin.
Implementation Method 2
The photosensor is configured to provide a photon signal. The photon signal may be a function of radiation emitted by the first radiation source.
Implementation Method 3
The second radiation source is implemented as a flash radiation source. The second radiation source may be implemented as a LED, a laser or a lamp.
Implementation Method 4
The driver is coupled to the first and the second radiation source and is configured to selectively operate the first and the second radiation source. The driver controls the operating of the first and the second radiation source avoiding an interference between the two radiation sources.
Data Source
AI summary
A biometric sensor arrangement (10) comprises a first radiation source (11), a second radiation source (12) that is implemented as a flash radiation source and a driver (13) coupled to the first and the second radiation source (11, 12) and configured to selectively operate the first and the second radiation source (11, 12). Moreover, the biometric sensor arrangement (10) comprises a photosensor (16) and a signal conditioning unit (18) coupled to the photosensor (16) and designed to provide a biometric signal (SB).