Conductive Guides for Proximity Sensor Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional proximity sensor devices face difficulties in detecting input objects outside their sensing region, as they are not sensitive to objects beyond the designated area, which can increase system costs by requiring additional detection mechanisms like push buttons.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating conductive guides that interact with the electric field sensed by sensor electrodes, allowing detection of input objects outside the sensing region by affecting the electric field even when the object is not within the sensing region, and using a processing system to evaluate electric field data for determining object presence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional detection mechanisms like push buttons are added to detect input objects outside the sensing region, then the detection capability is improved, but the system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor electrode is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting input objects both within and outside the traditional sensing region. By extending the electric field coverage and using conductive guides, the same sensor electrode detects objects in multiple areas, eliminating the need for separate push buttons and reducing system cost while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
Conductive guides are introduced as intermediary elements that extend the electric field beyond the traditional sensing region. These guides act as mediators that allow the sensor electrode to detect input objects outside its original sensing area by conducting and extending the electric field, thereby achieving enhanced detection without adding complex push button mechanisms
2Reliability
If the sensing region is extended to detect input objects outside the traditional area, then the detection capability is improved, but the electric field interference and measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The detection area is segmented into the traditional sensing region and an extended detection region. The sensor electrode is divided into first and second sensor electrodes, with conductive guides positioned between them. This segmentation allows each component to focus on specific detection zones, maintaining measurement precision while extending overall detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
Conductive guides serve as intermediaries that extend the electric field in a controlled manner. By positioning these guides strategically between sensor electrodes, the electric field is extended to detect objects outside the traditional sensing region while the guides themselves help manage field distribution, preventing excessive interference and maintaining sensing accuracy
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
Enables the detection of input objects outside the sensing region, reducing system costs by eliminating the need for additional detection mechanisms and enhancing the capability of proximity sensor devices to provide input beyond their traditional sensing boundaries.
Implementation Method 1
The first sensor electrode may be configured to sense an electric field within a sensing region
Implementation Method 2
The conductive guide may include a first portion configured to contact an input object outside the sensing region and a second portion configured to interact with the electric field
Data Source
AI summary
An input device includes a plurality of sensor electrodes and a conductive guide. The sensor electrodes may be configured to sense an electric field within a sensing region. A first portion of the conductive guide may be configured to contact an input object outside the sensing region. A second portion of the conductive guide may be configured to interact with the electric field. The input device may include a processing system couple to the plurality of sensor electrodes to evaluate the electric field from the plurality of sensor electrodes and determine whether an input object is in contact with the first portion of the conductive guide.