Camera and Object Sensing Circuit Mode Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional electronic apparatuses inaccurately determine the switching between operation modes based solely on time periods of user inactivity, leading to inefficient power management.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a camera sensing circuit and an object sensing circuit in an electronic apparatus, utilizing image sensing techniques to switch from a normal mode to a power saving mode and object sensing techniques to switch back to the normal mode, providing more accurate determination of user activity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the electronic apparatus uses only a time-based inactivity detection method to switch between operation modes, then the power consumption is reduced, but the accuracy of determining user activity is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of mode switching determinationVSAvoidcomplexity of sensing system
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the sensing function into two distinct circuits: a camera sensing circuit for detecting user presence and an object sensing circuit for detecting objects near the apparatus. This segmentation allows each circuit to be optimized for its specific sensing task, improving overall measurement precision while managing device complexity through functional division

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The camera sensing circuit serves multiple functions: it detects whether a user is present, determines user inactivity, and triggers mode switching. This multi-functionality improves measurement accuracy by using a single versatile sensing mechanism rather than multiple specialized sensors

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

2Use of energy by moving object

If the electronic apparatus enters power saving mode based on time period alone, then power consumption is reduced, but user operation demands are not satisfied

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidresponsiveness to user activity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the camera sensing circuit continuously monitors user presence and the object sensing circuit monitors nearby objects. This feedback allows the system to dynamically adjust its operation mode based on real-time sensing data, ensuring power saving mode is entered only when appropriate while maintaining adaptability to actual user activity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary sensing actions by continuously monitoring user presence and object proximity before deciding to switch to power saving mode. This preliminary detection ensures that the apparatus enters power saving mode only when no user activity is detected, preventing premature mode switching and maintaining responsiveness to user needs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 enhances the accuracy of mode switching, ensuring that the electronic apparatus enters power saving mode only when not in use, thereby optimizing power consumption and system performance.

Implementation Method 1

The camera sensing circuit is coupled to the circuit system and utilized for sensing at least a portion of a portrait of a user

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectImage sensing: Photography

Implementation Method 2

The object sensing circuit is coupled to the circuit system and utilized for sensing whether any object(s) is/are near to the electronic apparatus

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectObject sensing:

Data Source

PatentUS8810719B2Electronic apparatus having camera sensing circuit and object sensing circuit used for switching between two different operation modes and related computer-readable medium
Publication Date: 2014.08.19 PIXART IMAGING INC
  • US8810719B2 patent drawing
  • US8810719B2 patent drawing
  • US8810719B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic apparatus includes a circuit system, a camera sensing circuit, and an object sensing circuit. The circuit system is utilized for controlling an operation of the electronic apparatus. The camera sensing circuit is coupled to the circuit system and utilized for sensing at least a portion of a portrait of a user. The object sensing circuit is coupled to the circuit system and utilized for sensing whether any object(s) is/are near to the electronic apparatus. The operation of the object sensing circuit is different from the operation of the camera sensing circuit. The camera sensing circuit is used for determining whether to notify the circuit system to switch from a first operation mode to a second operation mode. The object sensing circuit is used for determining whether to notify the circuit system to switch from the second operation mode to the first operation mode.