Electrostatic Charge Variation Sensor Self-Test Without Interruption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrostatic charge variation sensors require interruption of operation for self-testing, leading to loss of sensing data and processing delays, which is undesirable in reliable applications like medical and industrial settings.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for performing self-tests on electrostatic charge variation sensors that apply stimulus signals to the sensors while they are in operation, allowing for continuous measurement without interruption, using a receiving electrode and a stimulus electrode capacitively coupled to detect and analyze the sensor's response.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional self-test methods are used to verify sensor functionality, then reliability is improved, but operation interruption occurs causing loss of sensing data and processing delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous self-testing by applying stimulus signals to the sensor during normal operation without interrupting the sensing function. The sensor simultaneously performs its primary measurement function and self-testing, eliminating operation interruptions and data loss while maintaining continuous verification of sensor functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies known stimulus signals to the sensor before analyzing the response, allowing the system to prepare test conditions in advance. This preliminary application of test signals enables the self-test to be integrated into the normal operation flow without causing interruptions or delays in the sensing application.
2Reliability
If self-test functions are implemented to ensure high reliability, then false alarms are reduced, but application operation is interrupted causing data loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the sensor to continuously perform both its primary sensing function and self-testing simultaneously. By applying stimulus signals during normal operation and analyzing responses without interrupting the application, the system maintains continuous data collection while reducing false alarms through ongoing verification of sensor functionality.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If stimulus signals are applied during operation for self-testing, then continuous measurement is maintained, but signal interference may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies stimulus signals to the sensor and analyzes the sensor's response to these known inputs. By comparing the actual response against expected responses, the system can distinguish between genuine sensing signals and test signal interference, maintaining continuous measurement while identifying and compensating for signal interference through feedback analysis.
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 continuous self-testing of electrostatic charge variation sensors without disrupting their operation, ensuring high reliability and reducing the risk of false alarms or data loss, thereby maintaining consistent performance in applications like room occupancy detection and biopotential monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
using a receiving electrode and a stimulus electrode capacitively coupled to detect and analyze the sensor's response
Implementation Method 2
Electrostatic charge variation sensors measure electrostatic charge variation in a surrounding environment by measuring electric potential variation among one or more electrodes
Data Source
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AI summary
Method and device for performing self-tests for electrostatic charge variation sensors. The device comprises a first stimulus electrode (14) configured to transmit a stimulus signal; a first receiving electrode (12) facing the first stimulus electrode (12), the first receiving electrode (12) configured to receive an electrostatic charge variation in a surrounding environment; an electrostatic charge variation sensor (16) coupled to the first receiving electrode (12), the electrostatic charge variation sensor configured to generate a first electrostatic charge variation measurement of the electrostatic charge variation and generate a second electrostatic charge variation measurement of the electrostatic charge variation, the second electrostatic charge variation measurement being generated in response to the stimulus signal being transmitted by the first stimulus electrode; and a processor (18) coupled to the electrostatic charge variation sensor (16), the processor (18) configured to perform a self-test on the electrostatic charge variation sensor using the first electrostatic charge variation measurement and the second electrostatic charge variation measurement, and output a result of the self-test that indicates the electrostatic charge variation sensor has passed or failed the self-test. The self-tests is performed while an electrostatic charge variation sensor is active and without interruption to the application employing the electrostatic charge variation sensor.