Capacitive Operation Member Switching for Accurate Multi-Input Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic apparatuses face challenges in accurately detecting multiple input operations due to variations in capacitance changes based on user interactions, leading to erroneous detections and inconsistencies in operation states, particularly when setting multiple threshold values for different operations.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a movable electrode and a fixed electrode that switch between electrically separated and conductively connected states, using a capacitance sensor to detect a short circuit when the electrodes come into contact, thereby eliminating the need for multiple threshold values and reducing erroneous detections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If one capacitance change detection unit detects changes at multiple stages (approach, separation, pressing), then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to difficulty in setting multiple threshold values
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection process by introducing a switching unit that divides the detection range into a first range (for approach/separation detection) and a second range (for pressing detection). This segmentation allows threshold values to be set independently for different operation types, improving measurement precision while maintaining simple device configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter by switching between different capacitance detection modes based on the operation type. The switching unit changes the detection parameter (threshold value and detection range) according to the operation state, enabling accurate detection of different operations with a single detection unit.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple threshold values are set for different user operations, then the adaptability to detect various operations is improved, but the device complexity increases due to difficulty in setting and managing multiple thresholds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a switching unit as an intermediary between the operation member and the capacitance change detection unit. This switching unit automatically selects appropriate threshold values and detection ranges based on the current operation type, eliminating the need for complex manual threshold management while maintaining high adaptability for different operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching unit dynamically changes detection parameters (threshold values and ranges) based on the operation state. This automatic parameter adjustment enables the system to adapt to different operations without requiring complex configuration management.
3Ease of operation
If capacitance change detection is used for pressing operation detection, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to variation in detection state caused by different finger contact states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic detection system where the switching unit automatically adjusts the detection range and threshold values based on the real-time operation state. This dynamic adaptation ensures consistent and reliable detection across different finger contact states, maintaining ease of operation while improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes detection parameters dynamically based on operation type. For pressing operations, the switching unit switches to a second detection range with appropriate threshold values, ensuring consistent detection regardless of finger contact variations.
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 configuration enhances the accuracy of input operation detection by ensuring consistent and reliable determination of touch and pressing actions, minimizing false positives and providing clear tactile feedback.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor configured to be electrically connected to the movable electrode and to detect a change in capacitance generated in the movable electrode
Implementation Method 2
a controller configured to perform control of entire the electronic apparatus according to a detection result by the sensor, wherein the controller switches, according to the displacement of the operation member, a state in the electronic apparatus to one of a first state in which the movable electrode and the fixed electrode are electrically separated from each other and a second state in which the movable electrode and the fixed electrode are in contact with each other in a conductive manner
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic apparatus capable of reducing erroneous detection of each input operation and variation in an operation detection state, while enabling various input operations with one operation member. The electronic apparatus comprising an operation member that is displaced according to user's operation; a movable electrode that is displaced according to displacement of the operation member; a fixed electrode fixed near the movable electrode while being electrically connected to ground; a sensor that is electrically connected to the movable electrode and detects a change in capacitance generated in the movable electrode; and a controller configured to switch, according to the displacement of the operation member, between a first state in which the movable electrode and the fixed electrode are electrically separated from each other and a second state in which the movable electrode and the fixed electrode are in contact with each other in a conductive manner.