Single-Source Gesture Detection via Segmented Photodiode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gesture sensors require multiple illumination sources, which increase device size and complexity, making them undesirable for compact electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
A gesture sensing device utilizing a single light source and multiple segmented photo sensors, with a light modifying structure to direct reflected light onto different segments, allowing the control circuit to determine target motion through differential signal analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple illumination sources are used in gesture sensors, then spatial information detection capability is improved, but device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The photo sensor is divided into multiple segments (e.g., four quadrants) that can independently detect light from different spatial directions. Each segment corresponds to a specific spatial zone, allowing the system to determine the position and motion of targets by comparing signals from different segments, thereby achieving spatial information detection without requiring multiple illumination sources
Solution Approach 2:
A single illumination source is designed to serve multiple functions by illuminating different spatial zones sequentially or simultaneously, and the segmented photo sensor processes light from multiple directions using the same physical component, reducing the overall number of components while maintaining detection capability
2Measurement precision
If multiple illumination sources are used in gesture sensors, then spatial information detection capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple detection functions that would traditionally require separate illumination sources and photo sensors are merged into a single integrated system where one illumination source works with a segmented photo sensor to achieve the same spatial detection capability, reducing component count and manufacturing complexity
3Measurement precision
If multiple illumination sources are used in gesture sensors, then gesture detection accuracy is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single illumination source operates in periodic pulsing sequences, illuminating different spatial zones at different times rather than continuously operating multiple sources. This periodic activation maintains gesture detection accuracy through temporal sampling while significantly reducing overall power consumption compared to having multiple sources active simultaneously
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
The solution enables compact and cost-effective gesture detection without the need for multiple illumination sources, allowing users to convey commands through gestures without activating touch screens or mechanical buttons, providing power and cost savings.
Implementation Method 1
different segments of the photo sensor sense reflected light and output corresponding sensed voltage signals
Implementation Method 2
A light modifying structure relays reflected light from the light source onto different segments of the segmented photo sensors depending on a location of a target
Data Source
AI summary
A gesture sensing device includes a multiple segmented photo sensor and a control circuit for processing sensed voltages output from the sensor. The control circuit processes the sensed voltage signals to determine target motion relative to the segmented photo sensor. The control circuit includes an algorithm configured to calculate one of more differential analog signals using the sensed voltage signals output from the segmented photo sensors. A vector is determined according to the calculated differential analog signals, the vector is used to determine a direction and/or velocity of the target motion.