Contact Detection Sensor for Portable Device Power Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic devices often malfunction due to unintended operation, such as accidental activation by objects or environmental factors, leading to unnecessary power consumption and reduced battery life.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating contact detection sensors on the device's attachment section that detect when the device is attached to a user, allowing the device to activate only when in use and enter a low power consumption state when not in use, thereby preventing unintended operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mechanical type switch is provided projecting from the surface of a housing, then operation functionality is improved, but the device may be erroneously operated by coming in contact with objects around the electronic device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a detection sensor as an intermediary between the mechanical switch and the control unit. The sensor detects the presence of a user's body part (fingerprint, palm, or body) and only enables the mechanical switch when detection confirms intentional user presence, thereby preventing erroneous operations from nearby objects while preserving normal operation functionality
2Weight of moving object
If an electrostatic capacitance-type touch panel or touch sensor is provided, then size and weight are reduced, but the switch may be electrically turned on by coming close to or in contact with a metallic or conductive object
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the detection sensor continuously monitor for the presence of a user's body part before enabling the touch panel or touch sensor. The control unit receives detection results in advance and only activates the input function when proper user presence is confirmed, preventing premature or erroneous activation by metallic or conductive objects
3Ease of operation
If the device operates continuously to maintain functionality, then operational readiness is improved, but power consumption increases reducing battery life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by having the detection sensor operate intermittently rather than continuously. The sensor periodically checks for user presence and triggers the control unit to activate or deactivate the input function accordingly, maintaining operational readiness when needed while reducing power consumption during idle periods
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its operational state based on real-time detection results. The control unit transitions the input function between active and inactive states according to whether a user's body part is detected, optimizing the balance between operational readiness and power consumption
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
Prevents accidental activation and reduces power consumption by ensuring the device is only activated when intended, thereby extending battery life and minimizing malfunctions.
Implementation Method 1
at least one contact detection sensor which detects whether the attachment section is attached to the user or is not attached to the user
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes an attachment section which is attachable to a user, at least one contact detection sensor which detects whether the attachment section is attached to the user or is not attached to the user, a function section which executes at least one function, and a circuit section. The circuit section judges that the attachment section is in a non-attached state to the user based on a detection result of the contact detection sensor and controls the function section not to execute the function when the attachment section is judged to be in the non-attached state.