Capacitive Touch Sensor for Intuitive Light Angle Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luminaire systems require complex and large input units for flexible illumination control, relying on trial-and-error methods for users to determine the correct operation of light direction, which is inefficient and not intuitive.
Innovation Solution
A luminaire system with an input unit that detects the angle between the finger and the input surface, driving the illumination unit to emit light at a corresponding output angle, allowing for intuitive control of light direction using proximity sensors and capacitive sensors to determine the finger's position and angle, enabling direct control of the light beam's direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard input unit with simple on/off switch is used, then the device complexity is low, but the ease of operation for light direction control is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical position-mapping mechanisms with a capacitive touch sensor system that directly detects finger position and angle. The sensor unit with multiple sensing elements electronically determines light direction based on capacitive coupling patterns, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages or moving parts while providing intuitive control.
Solution Approach 2:
The input unit serves multiple functions: it detects both the position and angle of the finger relative to the housing, controls both the position and direction of the light beam, and provides intuitive tactile feedback. This multi-functionality is achieved through a compact sensor array that processes multiple touch parameters simultaneously, reducing the need for separate control mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large and complex input unit is used for flexible illumination control, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit is divided into multiple sensing elements arranged in an array, where each element independently detects capacitive coupling at its location. This segmentation allows the system to determine both position and angle by comparing signals from different elements, providing flexible illumination control through a compact segmented structure rather than a single large complex unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes changes in capacitive parameters (coupling strength, signal intensity) between different sensing elements to determine finger position and angle. By monitoring these electrical parameter variations, the patent achieves adaptable illumination control without requiring mechanical complexity or large physical dimensions.
3Measurement precision
If position-based control is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the measurement precision for light direction is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional position control to three-dimensional control by adding angle detection capability. The sensor array not only detects where the finger touches but also the angle at which it touches relative to the housing. This dimensional enhancement allows precise control of both light position and direction through a single intuitive gesture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback by mapping the detected finger position and angle directly to the corresponding light beam position and direction. The optical axis of the light source is aligned with the housing's longitudinal axis, creating a direct feedback loop where the user's tactile input immediately translates to predictable light output, enhancing both precision and ease of operation.
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 solution provides a simpler, more intuitive method for controlling light direction, reducing the size of the input unit and eliminating the need for trial-and-error, allowing for precise and quick adjustment of light beams, and can be applied in various settings including automotive and medical environments.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one input unit is arranged for detecting an input angle between the finger and the at least one input unit
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b~2c
AI summary
The invention relates to a luminaire system comprising • - at least one illumination unit (1) comprising at least one light emitting element arranged to emit light (5) out of at least one light emission surface (3); • - at least one input unit (4) arranged for detecting a finger gesture of a user, and • - at least one driver unit arranged for driving the at least one illumination unit (1) in accordance with the finger gesture detected by the at least one input unit (4). The luminaire system is characterized in that the at least one input unit (4) is further arranged for detecting an input angle (alpha) between the finger and the at least one input unit (4) and in that the at least one driver unit is further arranged for driving the at least one illumination unit (1) for emitting light out of the at least one light emission surface (3) under an output angle (beta) which corresponds with the detected input angle (alpha).