Capacitive Sensor Power Management for Remote Controls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Remote control electronics face significant power consumption challenges due to their increasing sophistication and battery-powered nature, necessitating a method to reduce energy usage while maintaining functionality.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of capacitive sensors in remote controls to detect user presence and selectively power on/off high-current consuming components like gyroscopes and accelerometers, allowing the remote control to enter a low power state when not in use, using a microprocessor to manage power states based on capacitance readings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If remote control electronics become more sophisticated to provide full functionality, then device capability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning the remote control between different power states (low power sleep mode and full power operational mode) based on user presence detection. The system dynamically adjusts its operational characteristics rather than maintaining a fixed state, allowing full functionality when needed while conserving energy during idle periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by detecting user presence before fully activating the remote control system. The capacitive sensor detects hand proximity in advance, allowing the system to prepare for full operation rather than waiting for button presses, thus reducing the time spent in high-power states.
2Speed
If the remote control remains in full power state to ensure immediate responsiveness, then response time is improved, but battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by using capacitive sensors to continuously monitor for user presence and periodically transitioning between power states. The system checks for hand proximity at regular intervals and adjusts power consumption accordingly, creating a rhythm of low-power and full-power operation that balances responsiveness with energy conservation.
3Use of energy by moving object
If capacitive sensors are used to detect user presence and power down components, then power consumption is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses capacitive sensors as intermediary detection elements that sense user presence without requiring direct contact or complex interaction. These sensors act as mediators between the user and the power management system, providing simple electrical signals that trigger power state transitions without requiring complex processing or additional components.
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 effectively reduces power consumption by ensuring that only necessary components are active when the user is interacting with the remote control, thereby extending battery life and improving energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitive sensor to detect whether a user is holding the remote control
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 2~3A
AI summary
A remote controlling device (100) is disclosed that includes one or more motion sensors (120, 130, 140) configured to sense a motion of the device. The remote control further includes a capacitive sensor (150) and a power source (405). The capacitive sensor selectively couples the power source to the one or more motion sensors.