Capacitance Sensor Calibration for Accurate Contact Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices face challenges in accurately determining contact with users due to variations in sensor measurement values, leading to inconsistent functionality based on arbitrary reference sensor values.
Innovation Solution
A method that determines a reference sensor value based on actual measurement values from sensors, such as capacitance sensors, to accurately assess contact with users, regardless of the type of external object or contact state, using a control circuit to correct capacitance values and set threshold values for determining contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a reference sensor value is arbitrarily set by a user, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to differences in sensor measurement for each electronic device
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device automatically measures its own sensor values in different states (with and without external objects) and uses these measurements to determine the reference sensor value, eliminating the need for manual user configuration and ensuring device-specific accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs preliminary measurements of sensor values before actual contact detection operations, measuring values in both connected and separated states to establish a baseline reference that accounts for individual device characteristics
2Device complexity
If sensor measurement values are used directly without correction, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates due to inconsistent contact determination
Solution Approach 1:
The device measures sensor values in different states, compares these measurements to establish a reference, and uses this feedback to correct and adjust the reference sensor value for accurate contact determination, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to individual device characteristics
3Ease of operation
If a fixed reference sensor value is used for all devices, then the ease of operation is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates because sensor measurements vary between electronic devices
Solution Approach 1:
Each electronic device automatically calibrates its own sensor by measuring values in different states and determining its unique reference sensor value, making the system adaptable to each device's specific characteristics without requiring manual configuration or user intervention
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 enables precise determination of user contact, improving the accuracy and reliability of electronic device functions by using corrected capacitance values and dynamically set threshold values, ensuring consistent performance across different contact scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitance sensor; measuring a first capacitance value using the capacitance sensor in the state in which at least one switch is open; measuring a second capacitance value corresponding to an external object that is in contact with the at least one electrode
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention may comprise: at least one electrode having conductivity; a capacitance sensor, at least one switch electrically connected between the at least one electrode and the capacitance sensor, and capable of selectively connecting the at least one electrode and the capacitance sensor; and a control circuit, wherein the control circuit measures a first capacitance value by using the capacitance sensor in a state where the at least one switch is open, measures a second capacitance value corresponding to an external object contacting the at least one electrode, by using the capacitance sensor in a state where the at least one switch is connected, corrects the second capacitance value by using the first capacitance value, and determines the corrected second capacitance value as a capacitance value for the external object. Various other embodiments are possible.