Capsule Device Activation via Acceleration Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing capsule devices used in medical applications face challenges in maintaining low power consumption during storage and accurately turning on only when needed.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a one-dimensional acceleration sensor to change the capsule device from a non-working state to a working state by detecting specific acceleration patterns created by user-defined movements, ensuring accurate activation without additional weight or cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the capsule device uses an acceleration sensor to detect movement for turning on, then the activation accuracy is improved, but the power consumption during storage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the capsule perform self-calibration during storage period, where the acceleration sensor detects and records acceleration patterns (such as shaking or tapping) to establish baseline characteristics. This preliminary data collection allows the capsule to accurately distinguish between storage movements and activation triggers later, improving activation accuracy without requiring continuous high-power monitoring during actual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by enabling the acceleration sensor to operate in intermittent modes - actively monitoring during storage for calibration, then reducing to low-power or idle states during normal operation. The sensor is activated periodically to detect specific movement patterns (shaking, tapping) that indicate user-initiated activation, thereby maintaining accuracy while minimizing continuous power consumption.
2Speed
If the capsule device continuously monitors acceleration data, then the responsiveness to activation is improved, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the monitoring frequency and sensor activity adaptive rather than fixed. The system dynamically adjusts its monitoring behavior based on the operational state - highly responsive during storage when activation is expected, then transitioning to lower-frequency or event-triggered monitoring during operation. This dynamic approach maintains fast responsiveness to activation while significantly reducing average power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by using the capsule's own acceleration sensor and processing unit to automatically detect activation patterns and trigger startup without external intervention. The capsule monitors its own movement characteristics, compares them against calibrated thresholds, and autonomously initiates operation when specific patterns (such as sustained shaking or tapping) are detected, eliminating the need for continuous external monitoring while maintaining rapid response.
3Device complexity
If the capsule uses a one-dimensional acceleration sensor, then the device complexity and weight are reduced, but the measurement capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by utilizing temporal and contextual dimensions to compensate for the limited spatial measurement capability of the one-dimensional sensor. Instead of relying on multiple spatial axes, the system analyzes acceleration data over time, detecting movement patterns such as shaking frequency, tapping duration, and acceleration magnitude sequences. This temporal dimension enrichment allows the single-axis sensor to effectively characterize three-dimensional movement patterns, maintaining measurement precision while keeping the device simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by transforming the measurement approach from spatial dimensions to temporal and statistical parameters. The system analyzes acceleration data in terms of temporal patterns (duration, frequency, rhythm) and statistical characteristics (mean, variance, peak values) rather than relying on multiple spatial components. By changing the parameter domain from spatial to temporal/statistical, the one-dimensional sensor achieves sufficient measurement capability for activation detection without requiring complex multi-axis sensing.
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 effectively reduces power consumption during storage and ensures precise activation of the capsule device, minimizing false positives and maintaining low power usage.
Implementation Method 1
change a capsule device from a non-working state to a working state based on the acceleration data detected by an acceleration sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
A method to turn on the capsule device based on acceleration is described. First the capsule is monitored at a slow sampling mode. Then the capsule is monitored at a fast sampling mode. A user can input hand motion to change the acceleration to turn on the capsule device.