Capacitive Position Pointer With Sensor-Triggered Signal Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing position pointers with built-in power supplies continue to consume power even when not in use with a position detection sensor, leading to wasteful energy usage and frequent battery replacements.
Innovation Solution
A position pointer design that includes a first and second electrode, a signal detection circuit, and a transmission controlling circuit to transmit signals only when the pointer is in use with the sensor, thereby reducing power consumption by controlling power supply to the signal production circuit based on detection of the sensor's AC signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the power supply switch is kept on to ensure the position pointer is ready for use, then the position pointer can respond immediately when needed, but power consumption increases continuously even when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply is switched periodically between on and off states based on usage detection. The system transitions from continuous power supply to intermittent power supply, activating only when the position detection sensor detects the pointer, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining operational readiness.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the power supply switch is switched off frequently to save power, then power consumption is reduced, but the operation becomes more complex and the battery needs more frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically manages its own power supply state based on detection signals from the position detection sensor. The power supply switch is controlled by the detection circuit, which autonomously determines when power should be supplied, eliminating the need for manual user intervention and simplifying operation.
3Speed
If the power supply voltage is normally supplied to the AC signal generator and signal processing circuit, then the position pointer can transmit signals immediately, but unnecessary power is consumed when the pointer is not in use with the sensor
Solution Approach 1:
Power supply to the AC signal generator and signal processing circuit is made periodic rather than continuous. The power is supplied only during periods when the position detection sensor detects the pointer, eliminating wasteful energy consumption during idle periods while maintaining signal transmission capability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection circuit is designed to detect the presence of the position pointer before activating the power supply to the signal generation circuits. This preliminary detection ensures that power is supplied in advance of actual signal transmission needs, optimizing both response time and energy efficiency.
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
Significant power savings are achieved by ensuring the transmission signal is sent only when the pointer is in use, reducing unnecessary battery drain and extending battery life.
Implementation Method 1
a first electrode configured to receive an AC signal from the position detection sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A position pointer is provided for indicating a position on a sensor of a position detection device. The position pointer includes an elongate pointer body having a distal end and a proximal end; a first electrode disposed near the distal end; and a second electrode different from the first electrode and disposed near the distal end, wherein both the first and second electrodes are capacitively coupleable with the sensor of the position detection device. The position pointer includes a detection circuit configured to intermittently detect signals transmitted from the position detection device; a signal circuit configured to generate a position signal to be transmitted to the position detection device; and a transmission circuit configured to control transmission of the position signal. The transmission circuit, based on a detection result of the detection circuit, controls transmission of the position signal via the first electrode.