Fingerprint Sensor Control via Dynamic Sensing Area Redefinition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large area fingerprint sensors on electronic devices often capture fingerprint image data uncontrolled, leading to responsiveness issues, and there is a need to limit and control where fingerprint data is captured to enhance security and user convenience.
Innovation Solution
A method that authenticates a user based on a fingerprint image acquired at a designated sensing area, allowing only authenticated users to redefine the position of the sensing area within the fingerprint sensor's functional area, using a control unit and display unit to manage the fingerprint sensor's operation, including ultrasonic transducer technology for optimized energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large area fingerprint sensor is used to allow fingerprint capture anywhere on the touch screen, then the versatility and user convenience are improved, but the security and responsiveness are worsened due to uncontrolled capturing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the large area fingerprint sensor into multiple sensing regions, with one region designated as the designated sensing area for authenticated operations and other regions restricted for unauthenticated use. This segmentation allows the system to maintain large area coverage while implementing controlled access to specific functional zones, resolving the contradiction between versatility and security.
2Ease of operation
If fingerprint image data can be captured anywhere throughout the front surface, then the ease of operation is improved, but the loss of information increases due to uncontrolled data capture affecting responsiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements different operational characteristics for different regions of the fingerprint sensor. The designated sensing area is configured with optimized parameters for reliable authentication, while other areas have restricted functionality. This local differentiation maintains user convenience for finger placement while preserving system responsiveness through controlled data capture in the designated region.
3Device complexity
If the sensing area position is fixed, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability is worsened as users cannot optimize for their usage patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the sensing area position to be dynamically redefined based on user needs and usage patterns. After initial authentication at a fixed designated sensing area, authenticated users can relocate the sensing area to positions that better suit their individual usage patterns. This dynamic adjustment capability adds adaptability while maintaining manageable complexity through authentication-based access control.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method of controlling an electronic device, the electronic device comprising a fingerprint sensor. The present disclosure also relates to a corresponding electronic device and to a computer program product.