Fingerprint Sensor with Force Threshold Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fingerprint sensors in man-machine interfaces of motor vehicles are limited to personalization purposes and cannot be used for other functions.
Innovation Solution
An input device with a fingerprint sensor, an operating layer, and a force sensor, where the evaluation unit assigns switching functions based on operating force thresholds, allowing the fingerprint sensor to be used for biometric data acquisition and additional functions like cursor control and confirmation functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the fingerprint sensor is used only for personalization, then the personalization function is reliable, but the device versatility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the fingerprint sensor serve multiple functions: biometric identification and input device operation. The sensor is integrated into an operating layer that allows it to detect both fingerprint patterns and operational inputs (pressing, sliding, tapping), enabling one component to fulfill multiple roles without adding separate hardware
2Adaptability or versatility
If the fingerprint sensor is used for both personalization and other functions, then the device versatility is improved, but the measurement precision of fingerprint data may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its operation mode based on the detected input type. The control unit determines whether the fingerprint sensor is being used for biometric scanning or input operations (pressing, sliding, tapping) and activates appropriate functions accordingly, allowing the same hardware to serve different purposes at different times without compromising either function's performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the operating layer into distinct operational zones or modes: a first operating surface for fingerprint acquisition and a second operating surface for input operations. This segmentation allows the system to handle biometric data and input commands through different operational pathways, preventing interference between the two functions
3Ease of operation
If the operating force threshold is set low, then the switching function activation is sensitive, but the reliability of fingerprint acquisition deteriorates due to excessive pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses different threshold values for different operational modes. A first threshold is set for activating switching functions through pressing operations, while a second, higher threshold is maintained for reliable fingerprint acquisition. The control unit adjusts which threshold applies based on the current operational context, allowing sensitive activation for control functions while preserving acquisition reliability
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 fingerprint sensor to be utilized for purposes beyond personalization, enhancing the functionality of man-machine interfaces by allowing for biometric data acquisition and control operations, while preventing non-detectability due to excessive finger contact pressure.
Implementation Method 1
The first operating surface comprises an acquisition surface which is configured to acquire a fingerprint of a finger of an operator via the fingerprint sensor
Implementation Method 2
The at least one force sensor is configured to measure an operating force of the finger of an operator acting on the first operating surface
Data Source
AI summary
An input device includes a fingerprint sensor, an operating layer having a first operating surface, at least one force sensor, and an evaluation unit. The first operating surface has an acquisition surface which acquires a fingerprint of a finger of an operator via the fingerprint sensor. The at least one force sensor measures an operating force of the finger of the operator acting on the first operating surface. The evaluation unit is electrically conductively connected with the fingerprint sensor and with the at least one force sensor. The evaluation unit assigns at least one first switching function to the operating force applied on first operating surface of the operating layer if the operating force measured on the first operating surface exceeds a first threshold value.