Foldable Device Electrode Sensing for Sensor-Free Closure Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable devices face inefficiencies and increased complexity due to the use of dedicated sensors like IR or Hall Sensors for detecting open or closed states, which can fail and add unnecessary expense and space, and magnetic switches can interfere with displays.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing a set of electrodes in different portions of the foldable device to generate and detect sensing signals, determining the device's state based on these signals, and adjusting display settings accordingly without the need for additional sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated sensor (IR or Hall Sensor) is used to detect the open or closed state of the foldable device, then the device state detection function is achieved, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the state detection function with the existing touchscreen electrode structure. The same electrode that serves as part of the display/touch interface is also used to generate sensing signals for detecting whether the device is open or closed, merging two functions into one component and eliminating the need for separate dedicated sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode in the touchscreen structure is given multiple functions: it serves both as part of the display/touch interface and as a sensing element for detecting device state (open/closed). This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed in the system
2Reliability
If a dedicated sensor is used to detect the operating state of the foldable device, then the device state can be determined, but the manufacturing cost increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the state detection function with the existing touchscreen electrode structure. The same electrode that serves as part of the display/touch interface is also used to generate sensing signals for detecting whether the device is open or closed, merging two functions into one component and eliminating the need for separate dedicated sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode in the touchscreen structure is given multiple functions: it serves both as part of the display/touch interface and as a sensing element for detecting device state (open/closed). This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed in the system
3Reliability
If a magnetic switch is used to detect the device state, then the open or closed state can be detected, but the display may be interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces magnetic field-based detection (which can interfere with display operation) with electrical field-based detection using electrodes. The sensing mechanism uses electrical fields generated by the electrodes instead of magnetic fields, eliminating the interference issue while maintaining detection functionality
4Reliability
If a dedicated sensor is included in the foldable device, then the device state can be detected, but the device takes up additional space and increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the state detection function with the existing touchscreen electrode structure. The same electrode that serves as part of the display/touch interface is also used to generate sensing signals for detecting whether the device is open or closed, merging two functions into one component and eliminating the need for separate dedicated sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode in the touchscreen structure is given multiple functions: it serves both as part of the display/touch interface and as a sensing element for detecting device state (open/closed). This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed in the system
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
Reduces material and assembly costs, simplifies design, avoids display interference, and enhances reliability by eliminating the need for dedicated sensors.
Implementation Method 1
drive the first set of electrodes to generate a plurality of sensing signals that are detectable by the second set of electrodes
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining a state of a foldable device is provided. The foldable device comprises: a first set of electrodes located in a first portion of the foldable device; a second set of electrodes located in a second portion of the foldable device; a display device configured to display information to a user; and a processing system configured to: drive the first set of electrodes to generate a plurality of sensing signals that are detectable by the second set of electrodes; obtain a plurality of resulting signals associated with the plurality of sensing signals via the second set of electrodes; determine a state of the foldable device based on the plurality of resulting signals; and change one or more settings of the display device based on the determined state.