Fingerprint Sensor Power Management via Contact Duration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fingerprint sensor systems in electronic devices are limited in their ability to simplify operation and manage power consumption while providing effective control and navigation within graphical user interfaces (GUIs).
Innovation Solution
A method and device configuration that utilizes a fingerprint sensor with an array of pixels to detect human skin presence, acquire fingerprint images, and compare them to a template for authentication and navigation, allowing users to interact with a GUI using either a traditional input device for short contact or the fingerprint sensor for longer contact, thereby optimizing power usage and simplifying control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the fingerprint sensor is continuously active to enable fast authentication and navigation, then the response speed and user convenience are improved, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operational state of the fingerprint sensor between active and inactive modes based on detected user presence. When a finger is detected, the sensor transitions to active mode for fast authentication; when no finger is present, it enters inactive mode to conserve power. This dynamic state adjustment resolves the contradiction between maintaining fast response and reducing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic detection cycles where the fingerprint sensor periodically checks for finger presence rather than remaining continuously active. This periodic operation allows the sensor to remain in a low-power state between detection cycles while still providing timely authentication when needed, balancing speed and power consumption.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the fingerprint sensor operates in full functionality to provide both authentication and navigation, then the versatility is improved, but the power consumption and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the fingerprint sensor's functionality into two distinct modes: authentication mode for security verification and navigation mode for GUI control. By separating these functions and activating only the necessary mode based on contact duration, the system provides versatility when needed while consuming less power during authentication-only operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (contact duration threshold) to determine which functionality to activate. Short contact durations trigger authentication mode, while longer durations enable navigation mode. This parameter-based control allows the system to adapt its functionality and power consumption level based on user intent.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the fingerprint sensor operates in full functionality to provide both authentication and navigation, then the versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a simple parameter (contact duration threshold) to control the transition between authentication and navigation modes. This single parameter-based control mechanism manages the complexity of providing multiple functions while keeping the control logic straightforward and easy to implement.
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
This configuration enhances user control and navigation within electronic devices by allowing seamless transitions between low power and fully operational states based on contact duration, reducing power consumption and improving user interaction through the fingerprint sensor's capacitive sensing technology.
Implementation Method 1
capacitive sensing is most commonly used, in particular in applications where size and power consumption are important issues
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method of controlling an electronic device, the electronic device comprising a fingerprint sensor. The fingerprint sensor is typically comprised with a user input device providing a possible compliment and/or addition to a general user input device provided with the portable electronic device. Advantages with the invention include simplified user control of the portable electronic device. The invention also relates to a corresponding electronic device and to a computer program product.