Connector Metal Mask Proximity Sensing Without Antenna Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices face challenges in providing sufficient space for sensing electrodes due to limited space near antennas and integrating sensing electrodes with antennas affects antenna performance, especially with new wireless technologies requiring wider bandwidths.
Innovation Solution
Integrate a sensing electrode into a connector's metal mask, which can be floated or grounded to function as a sensing electrode or shield electromagnetic interference, adjusting RF unit output power based on proximity detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the sensing electrode is disposed nearby the antenna, then the proximity sensing function is achieved, but the space for placing the sensing electrode is quite limited due to device thickness and other required elements
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing electrode is moved from the traditional lateral position near the antenna to the vertical dimension by integrating it into the connector structure. This dimensional relocation provides additional space for the sensing electrode without compromising antenna performance or device thickness constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector structure is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides electrical connection, electromagnetic shielding, and proximity sensing capabilities. By integrating the sensing electrode into the connector, the same structural element performs both connection and sensing functions, eliminating the need for separate sensing electrode space.
2Area of stationary object
If the sensing electrode is disposed underneath the antenna, then space is utilized, but the sensing electrode will quite approach the antenna which will affect the gain performance of the antenna
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing electrode is relocated from the vertical space underneath the antenna to the horizontal plane of the connector. This spatial relocation in another dimension maintains adequate separation between the sensing electrode and antenna, preserving antenna gain performance while still achieving proximity sensing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The device structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: the antenna region for wireless communication and the connector region for physical connection and sensing. This segmentation allows the sensing electrode to be placed in the connector region without interfering with antenna performance, as each component operates in its designated spatial zone.
3Area of stationary object
If the sensing electrode is integrated in the antenna pattern, then space is saved, but this manner will bring greater and more complex challenges to the antenna design especially with new wireless technologies requiring wider bandwidth
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna and sensing electrode are segmented into separate components located in different structural regions. The antenna maintains its original design optimized for wide bandwidth wireless communication, while the sensing electrode is independently integrated into the connector. This segmentation avoids the design complexity that would arise from integrating sensing functionality directly into the antenna pattern.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector structure is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides mechanical connection, electromagnetic shielding, and proximity sensing. By consolidating these functions in the connector rather than integrating sensing into the antenna, the antenna design remains simple and optimized for its primary wireless communication function with wide bandwidth requirements.
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
Solves space constraints and antenna performance issues while maintaining compliance with Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) regulations by using a connector's metal mask as a sensing electrode, reducing RF output power when necessary to meet regulatory limits.
Implementation Method 1
a proximity sensing circuit connected to the metal mask. When the connector is not connected to the external device, the sensing control unit enables the metal mask to be floated, and the floated metal mask is suitable as a sensing electrode of the proximity sensing circuit
Implementation Method 2
When the connector is connected to the external device, the sensing control unit enables the metal mask to be grounded
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses an electronic device. The electronic device includes a connector and a sensing control unit. The connector includes a metal mask and at least one terminal. The sensing control unit is electrically connected to the metal mask and the at least one terminal. The sensing control unit is suitable for sensing whether the connector is connected to an external device, and includes a proximity sensing circuit connected to the metal mask. When the connector is connected to the external device, the sensing control unit enables the metal mask to be grounded. When the connector is not connected to the external device, the sensing control unit enables the metal mask to be floated, and the floated metal mask is suitable as a sensing electrode of the proximity sensing circuit.