Electromagnetic Position Detection for Mobile Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current interfaces for detecting the position and orientation of multiple mobile elements with a computer system are limited by their ability to support only a few simultaneous contacts, require conductive objects, and lack detection of altitude, making them bulky, expensive, and not suitable for family use.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that use localisation modules with activation signals to determine the position and orientation of multiple mobile elements in real time, allowing for efficient and simultaneous detection of multiple elements without prior knowledge of the modules, using a combination of electromagnetic fields and time delay values for dynamic activation and deactivation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If touch screens of the capacitive type are used to detect the position of mobile elements, then the position can be detected without constant pressure, but only conductive objects connected to earth can be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces capacitive sensing (which requires conductive objects) with electromagnetic induction sensing. The localization module contains a radiating element that generates an electromagnetic field, and the screen contains conductive loops that detect this field through electromagnetic induction. This substitution allows detection of non-conductive objects since the sensing mechanism no longer relies on electrical contact or conductivity of the detected object.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from electrical conductivity to electromagnetic field interaction. Instead of measuring current leakage through conductive objects (capacitive sensing), the system measures the electromagnetic field generated by the radiating element and detected by the conductive loops. This parameter change enables detection of plastic, wooden, or other non-conductive materials.
2Productivity
If multiple localisation modules are activated simultaneously to detect multiple mobile elements, then all positions can be determined at once, but signal interference and detection accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic activation of localization modules in sequential time slots. Each module is activated in turn rather than simultaneously, with the activation sequence managed by a control module. This periodic action eliminates signal interference between multiple modules while maintaining real-time detection capability through rapid cycling through all modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic time-multiplexed activation where the system adapts the activation sequence and timing based on the number of mobile elements detected. The control module dynamically adjusts which modules are activated and when, optimizing the detection process for varying numbers of objects on the screen.
3Reliability
If infrared cameras are arranged within the thickness of the table to detect mobile elements, then position detection is achieved, but the table becomes bulky and less mobile
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses thin conductive loops integrated into the screen structure instead of bulky infrared cameras embedded in table thickness. The conductive loops can be implemented as thin traces or films on the screen surface, maintaining a sleek, mobile design while enabling position detection through electromagnetic field interaction rather than optical detection.
4Quantity of substance
If a large number of mobile elements are detected using conventional touch screen solutions, then comprehensive interaction is achieved, but the system becomes too expensive for family use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive localization modules that can be easily manufactured and integrated into mobile elements. Each module contains a simple radiating element and basic electronics for sequential activation, replacing expensive infrared camera systems or complex capacitive sensor arrays. This approach enables mass production at family-friendly price points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the complex and expensive infrared detection system and replaces it with a simplified electromagnetic induction system using thin conductive loops and sequential module activation. This extraction of the essential detection function while removing unnecessary complexity significantly reduces manufacturing costs.
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 efficient, real-time detection of the position and orientation of multiple mobile elements, supporting a large number of elements and allowing for dynamic addition or removal without reconfiguration, improving interactivity and usability.
Implementation Method 1
activation comprising a switching step to excite an element radiating from said at least one localisation module
Data Source
AI summary
The subject of the invention is in particular the real-time interfacing of a plurality of mobile elements with a computing system. After having selected at least one location module integrated into a mobile element, the at least one location module is activated sequentially. At least one signal is then received from the at least one activated location module and at least one item of information relating to the position of the mobile element including the at least one activated location module is calculated in real time on the basis of the at least one signal received. A single location module may be activated at a given instant.