Inductive Surface Detection for Mobile Device Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current interfaces for detecting the position and orientation of mobile devices with a computer system, such as those used in gaming, face limitations in detecting non-conductive objects, supporting multiple simultaneous interactions, and determining altitude, with existing solutions being bulky, expensive, and lacking in mobility and family usability.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize an inductive magnetic field to detect the interaction surface of a mobile device with a host device, determining the current interaction surface by analyzing induced electrical signals and using a level test to identify the strongest magnetic field, allowing for automatic identification of the interacting surface, even when objects are not in physical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If infrared cameras are embedded within the table's thickness to detect mobile devices, then position detection capability is improved, but the table becomes bulky, difficult to move, and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical infrared camera system with an electromagnetic induction-based detection system. Conductive loops are embedded in the table surface to generate magnetic fields that induce electrical signals in mobile devices, eliminating the need for bulky infrared cameras while maintaining position detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from optical infrared signals to electromagnetic induction signals. By using conductive loops that generate alternating magnetic fields, the system detects mobile devices through induced electrical signals, fundamentally changing the physical principle of detection to achieve a simpler, thinner table structure
2Measurement precision
If capacitive touchscreens are used to detect object positions, then position detection is enabled, but only conductive objects connected to ground can be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the capacitive touch detection system (which relies on electrical conduction through the object) with an inductive detection system. The conductive loops in the table generate magnetic fields that induce electrical signals in any mobile device with conductive elements, regardless of whether the object itself is conductive or grounded
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection mechanism from measuring charge leakage (capacitive) to measuring induced electrical signals from magnetic field interaction (inductive). This parameter change allows detection of diverse objects including plastic or wooden items that cannot be detected by capacitive screens
3Measurement precision
If resistive touchscreens are used to detect stylus position, then position detection is achieved, but constant pressure is required and only single touch is supported
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical pressure-based resistive touchscreen with an electromagnetic induction system. The conductive loops generate magnetic fields that induce signals in mobile devices without requiring physical contact or constant pressure, enabling more flexible interaction methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal detection system that can detect multiple types of mobile devices simultaneously through electromagnetic induction. The system supports various interaction modes including touching, hovering, and different types of mobile devices with varying conductive elements, providing multi-functional capability
4Measurement precision
If touch screens or touch films are used to detect object positions, then position detection is enabled, but only a limited number of simultaneous contacts are supported
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection surface into multiple independent conductive loops arranged in a grid pattern. Each loop can independently detect mobile devices, allowing simultaneous detection of multiple objects across different locations on the table surface
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional detection system where the array of conductive loops can detect multiple mobile devices simultaneously through electromagnetic induction. The system handles various interaction scenarios including multiple users, different device types, and various interaction modes without limitation
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 efficient detection of multiple mobile devices with varying interaction surfaces, including non-conductive objects, and determines their position and orientation, improving usability and reducing costs while enhancing mobility and family-friendly use.
Implementation Method 1
detection of at least one electrical signal induced by at least one inducing magnetic field in at least one electrical circuit of the host device
Implementation Method 2
detection of at least one electrical signal induced by at least one inducing magnetic field in at least one electrical circuit of the host device
Data Source
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Figure 2~5
Figure 6a~6d
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for determining a first common interaction surface (503) of a mobile device (501) with a second interaction surface (502) of a host device (500), the method comprising the following steps: detecting at least one electrical signal induced by at least one inducing magnetic field in at least one electric circuit of the host device (500) associated with said second surface (502); determining an interaction surface (503) of the mobile device (501) associated with said at least one inducing electromagnetic field; performing a level test (1106) in accordance with said at least one induced electrical signal; and determining said first common interaction surface (503) as being said interaction surface of the mobile device (501) associated with said at least one inducing electromagnetic field, according to a result of the level test (1106).