Inductive Coil Array for Object Recognition on Wearables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wearable devices lack effective methods for precise object recognition and interaction, relying on small touchscreens for input, which can be cumbersome and limited in functionality.
Innovation Solution
A sensing apparatus with an array of inductive coils on a surface that detects changes in resonant frequencies to identify objects and track their movements, using processing circuitry to compare signals with stored reference signals and determine object identity, position, and orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a touchscreen is used for object recognition and input on wearable devices, then object interaction is enabled, but the input method becomes cumbersome and the functionality is limited due to the small screen size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical touchscreen interaction system with an inductive sensing system that uses electromagnetic fields to detect objects. The inductive coils generate electromagnetic fields that interact with conductive objects, enabling contactless detection and control without requiring physical screen contact
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary inductive sensing system between the user and the device interface. The sensing apparatus with inductive coils acts as a mediator that detects object presence, position, and movement through electromagnetic induction, translating physical gestures into digital commands without direct screen contact
2Measurement precision
If an array of inductive coils is used for object detection, then measurement precision and object recognition accuracy are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sensing system into multiple discrete inductive coils arranged in arrays. Each coil independently detects electromagnetic interactions with objects, and the combined data from multiple coils provides precise spatial and identification information through pattern recognition algorithms
Solution Approach 2:
The inductive coil array serves multiple functions simultaneously: object detection, position tracking, orientation sensing, and identification. The same hardware infrastructure supports various interaction modes including contact detection, sliding gestures, tilting, and rotating motions without requiring separate sensing systems
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 precise object recognition and tracking, allowing for intuitive control of applications on wearable devices through contact, sliding, tilting, and rotating motions without occluding the screen, enhancing user interaction and input efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
resonators having respective resonant frequencies. The resonators can include an array of inductive coils positioned on a surface of the apparatus. The sensing device is configured to output a signal indicating changes of the resonant frequencies of the inductive coils caused by presence of an object proximate to the surface of the apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosure provide a sensing apparatus including a sensing device, a memory, and processing circuitry. The sensing device includes resonators having respective resonant frequencies. The resonators include an array of inductive coils positioned on a surface of the apparatus. The sensing device can output a signal indicating changes of the resonant frequencies caused by presence of an object proximate to the surface. The memory stores reference signals corresponding to reference objects. Each reference signal indicates changes of the resonant frequencies caused by the respective reference object proximate to the surface. The processing circuitry can receive, from the sensing device, a particular signal indicating changes of the resonant frequencies caused by presence of a particular object proximate to the surface. The processing circuitry compares the particular signal with the stored reference signals of the reference objects to determine an identity of the particular object.