Capacitive Object Detection Using Frequency-Based Discrimination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current capacitive detection devices in robots cannot discriminate between a human operator and other objects, or between multiple nearby objects, limiting their ability to adapt behavior based on detected objects.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that polarize nearby objects at different electrical potentials at specific frequencies to selectively detect and discriminate between them, using capacitive electrodes and detection electronics to generate discriminative signals for each object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional capacitive detection is used to detect nearby objects, then object presence can be detected, but discrimination between different objects (especially human operators vs. other objects) is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by assigning different polarization frequencies to different objects. Each object is polarized at a unique frequency, allowing the detection system to distinguish between objects based on the frequency of the capacitive signal they generate. This frequency-based parameter differentiation enables precise object discrimination and preserves object identity information that was previously lost in conventional capacitive detection.
2Productivity
If multiple objects are detected simultaneously with conventional capacitive detection, then all objects are detected, but individual object discrimination is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by using alternating current at different frequencies to polarize multiple objects simultaneously. Each object responds at its assigned frequency, creating periodic capacitive signals that can be independently identified. This allows the system to maintain high detection speed by processing multiple objects in parallel while preserving the ability to identify each object individually through frequency analysis.
3Measurement precision
If selective detection of specific objects is implemented, then discrimination capability is improved, but detection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a single capacitive detection system that can detect all objects while frequency modulation enables selective detection of specific objects. The same detection electronics can analyze signals across multiple frequencies to identify different objects, eliminating the need for separate detection systems for each object type. This multi-functional approach maintains measurement precision while avoiding the complexity of multiple dedicated detection systems.
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 the robot to accurately distinguish between different nearby objects, including humans, allowing for adaptive behavior and improved safety features like optimizing operator safety.
Implementation Method 1
measuring at least one signal representative of a capacitance, called electrode-object capacitance, seen by said at least one measurement electrode
Implementation Method 2
polarizing a first nearby object at a first alternating electrical potential, different from a ground potential, and different from an electrical potential of at least one second nearby object
Data Source
AI summary
A method for capacitive detection of nearby objects that may be located in the environment of an equipment provided with a capacitive detection device including a detection step, called discriminative detection step, including the following operations:polarizing a first nearby object at a first alternating potential (V1), different from a ground potential (M), and from the potential of at least one second nearby object, at a first frequency (F1); anddetermining a first discriminative signal representative of a capacitance, called electrode-object capacitance, seen by the at least one measurement electrode, at said first frequency (F1).