3D Gesture Detection Using Quasi-Static Electric Field Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input devices, such as keyboards and touchpads, primarily offer two-dimensional input capabilities, lacking the ability to effectively detect and utilize three-dimensional gestures for enhanced functionality.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a processing system integrated with a sensor arrangement of electrodes surrounding the input device, capable of generating a quasi-static electric field to detect gestures in 3D space, allowing for both non-touching and touching gesture detection, and switching between operating modes to perform predefined functions like copying and pasting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional two-dimensional input devices (keyboard, touchpad) are used, then device structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but gesture detection capability is limited and functionality is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode arrangement serves multiple functions: it detects non-touching gestures in 3D space, detects touching gestures, and can operate in different modes (gesture detection mode and touch sensing mode). This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by enabling enhanced gesture detection capability while using a single integrated sensor structure rather than requiring separate sensors for different functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode arrangement acts as an intermediary between the user and the processing system. It detects gestures in the air above the input device and translates them into control signals, enabling 3D gesture detection without requiring direct physical contact. This intermediary mechanism resolves the contradiction by providing advanced gesture detection capability while maintaining a relatively simple integrated structure.
2Measurement precision
If electrode arrangement with multiple electrodes is added to detect 3D gestures, then gesture detection precision and functionality are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor arrangement merges the gesture detection electrodes with the existing input device structure. The electrodes are integrated into the device housing or frame, combining multiple functions (gesture detection, structural support) into a single integrated design. This merging approach resolves the contradiction by achieving precise 3D gesture detection while avoiding the need for separate, complex sensor assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode arrangement is designed to serve multiple purposes: detecting non-touching gestures, detecting touching gestures, and potentially serving as part of the device's structural framework. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through integrated design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sensor arrangement monitors area above input device to detect non-touching gestures, then user interface functionality is enhanced, but energy consumption and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor arrangement can operate in different modes (gesture detection mode and touch sensing mode) that are time-multiplexed. The system periodically switches between these modes, enabling non-touching gesture detection when needed while allowing energy-saving states when gesture detection is not required. This periodic operation resolves the contradiction by enhancing user interface functionality while managing energy consumption through controlled activation.
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 intuitive three-dimensional gesture detection, enhancing user interface functionality by allowing users to perform actions without direct contact, improving usability and reducing the need for manual key shortcuts, while maintaining compatibility with existing device structures.
Implementation Method 1
the electrode arrangement comprises a transmission electrode for generating a quasi-static electric field
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of reception electrodes arranged around said input device
Data Source
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AI summary
A system with a processing system, an input device integrated within the processing system and coupled with the processing system, and a sensor arrangement integrated with the processing system and configured to monitor an area above the input device, and a controller coupled with the sensor arrangement to detect predefined input actions, wherein the controller is coupled with the processing system and wherein the predefined input actions are combined with inputs from the input device.