Heater Device with Segmented Capacitive Sensor for Noise Immunity
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Solution Overview
Problem
The detection accuracy of objects by heater devices using plane-type capacitive sensors is compromised due to large capacitance between conductive portions and vehicle components, leading to increased temperature and reduced accuracy, especially in environments with electromagnetic noise from vehicle components.
Innovation Solution
A heater device design incorporating a heat generation layer with low thermal conductivity, paired electrodes on one side of the heat generation layer, and a controller to manage power supply based on detection results, utilizing a mutual capacitive sensor to minimize electromagnetic noise interference and quickly reduce surface temperature upon contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If plane-type capacitive sensors are used for object detection in heater devices, then the detection function is provided, but the detection accuracy deteriorates due to large capacitance between conductive portions and vehicle components
Solution Approach 1:
The capacitive sensor is divided into multiple independent capacitive elements arranged in an array. Each element can independently detect objects, and the segmented structure reduces the capacitance between conductive portions and vehicle components, thereby improving detection accuracy in environments with electromagnetic noise.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the heater device are assigned different functions: the heat generation layer is positioned on one side for heating, while the capacitive sensor elements are positioned on the opposite side for detection. This spatial separation ensures that the detection region is isolated from the heat generation region, reducing electromagnetic interference and improving detection accuracy.
2Temperature
If heat generation portions are energized to provide heating, then the heating function is achieved, but the surface temperature increases which may cause discomfort or safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The capacitive sensor performs preliminary detection to identify the presence and position of objects (such as human body parts) before the heat generation portions are energized. This allows the system to pre-adjust the heating control strategy, ensuring that heat is applied safely and comfortably from the outset, preventing thermal discomfort and safety risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The capacitive sensor continuously monitors the surface and provides real-time feedback about object presence and temperature conditions. The controller uses this feedback to dynamically adjust the power supplied to the heat generation portions, maintaining optimal temperature levels that prevent discomfort and safety issues while ensuring effective heating.
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 enhances object detection accuracy and safety by limiting heat transfer and suppressing electromagnetic noise effects, ensuring the surface temperature decreases rapidly upon contact, preventing discomfort and maintaining safety.
Implementation Method 1
a heat generation layer that has a heat generation portion configured to generate heat when energized
Implementation Method 2
a detection portion configured to generate an electric field between the pair of electrodes and detect an object around the pair of electrodes
Implementation Method 3
a heat generation layer that has a heat generation portion configured to generate heat when energized... limiting heat transfer
Data Source
AI summary
A heater device includes a heat generation layer that has a heat generation portion configured to generate heat when energized, a pair of electrodes disposed on one side of the heat generation layer and being spaced from each other, a detection portion configured to generate an electric field between the pair of electrodes and detect an object around the pair of electrodes, and a controller configured to control the amount of electric power supplied to the heat generation portion based on a detection result by the detection portion.