Coil Array Object Identification via Electromagnetic Resonance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices lack the ability to automatically perform functions based on the presence of specific objects, such as pen-type objects, and efficiently differentiate between input surfaces with resonant circuits and magnets, limiting user convenience and functionality.

Innovation Solution

An electronic device method and apparatus that applies a current to a coil, measures induced currents in adjacent coils, identifies objects using electromagnetic resonance, and performs designated functions based on the identification, including determining input surfaces and performing different functions depending on the type of object detected.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If electromagnetic resonance phenomenon is used to detect input tools, then various functions can be performed using input tools, but the ability to automatically perform functions based on object presence and differentiate between input surfaces is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic device automatically detects the presence of objects and performs designated functions without requiring explicit user commands. The processor automatically applies current to coils, measures induced currents, identifies objects based on electromagnetic resonance characteristics, and executes corresponding functions, enabling the system to serve itself rather than requiring manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system differentiates between input surfaces by detecting changes in electromagnetic resonance parameters. When a magnet is present on a pen-type object, it alters the induced current characteristics in adjacent coils, allowing the processor to identify the specific input surface and perform different functions based on these parameter variations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If multiple coils are used to detect objects, then object identification accuracy improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobject identification accuracyVSAvoidcoil configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The detection system is divided into multiple independent coils, each capable of detecting electromagnetic resonance independently. The processor sequentially or selectively activates individual coils to detect objects in different spatial zones, breaking down the complex detection task into simpler, manageable segments while maintaining high identification accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple coils serve dual purposes: they can individually detect objects in their respective zones and collectively provide comprehensive spatial coverage. The same coil structure is used for both generating electromagnetic resonance and measuring induced currents, eliminating the need for separate transmitter and receiver components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Enhances user convenience by enabling automatic performance of functions when specific objects are present, accurately identifying objects and their input surfaces, and allowing for varied functionalities based on object type, improving interaction with electronic devices.

Implementation Method 1

applying a current to a first coil from among a plurality of coils of the electronic device, measuring an induced current of a second coil among the plurality of coils

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

identifying information on an object which is located outside the electronic device based on the induced current

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic resonance: Resonance

Data Source

PatentEP3198389B1Apparatus and method for identifying object
Publication Date: 2023.09.06 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP3198389B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3198389B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3198389B1 patent drawingFigure 3a

AI summary

An element device and a method for identifying an object are provided. The method includes applying a current to a first coil from among a plurality of coils of the electronic device, measuring an induced current of a second coil among the plurality of coils, the second coil adjacent to the first coil, identifying information on an object which is located outside the electronic device based on the induced current, and performing a designated function based on a result of the identifying