Infrared Proximity Sensor Dual-Power Mode for Mobile Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing use of Hall sensors and magnets in smartphones for proximity detection results in unnecessary waste when a flip cover is not purchased, as these components become redundant and unused.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an infrared emitter and a proximity sensor into mobile devices that emit infrared rays in different power modes to detect proximity, allowing the device to determine if an object or user is nearby, thereby replacing the need for Hall sensors and magnets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Hall sensor and magnet are installed in the mobile device for proximity detection, then the proximity detection function is achieved, but the device complexity increases and components become waste when flip cover is not used
Solution Approach 1:
The infrared emitter and proximity sensor are designed to perform multiple functions: they can detect the flip cover state when the cover is attached, and they can also detect user proximity or objects near the device when the cover is not attached. This multi-functionality eliminates the waste of components and justifies their inclusion in the device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If infrared emitter and proximity sensor are installed in the mobile device, then the device can detect proximity without flip cover and avoid component waste, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The infrared emitter and proximity sensor serve dual purposes: they enable proximity detection both with and without the flip cover. This versatility improves adaptability while the integrated design minimizes the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The infrared emitter and proximity sensor are combined into a single detection system that works in both scenarios (with and without flip cover), reducing the need for separate component sets and minimizing overall complexity.
3Measurement precision
If Hall sensor is used for proximity detection, then the proximity detection is accurate, but the infrared emitter can be used to provide additional functionality beyond cover detection
Solution Approach 1:
The infrared emitter and proximity sensor not only detect the flip cover state with high accuracy but also provide additional functionality by detecting user proximity, enabling features like automatic screen dimming or wake-up based on user presence, thus expanding the versatility of the device.
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
This solution enables accurate proximity detection without the need for additional accessories, preventing component waste and allowing for additional functionality beyond just cover detection, such as user proximity awareness.
Implementation Method 1
The infrared emitter emits an infrared ray
Implementation Method 2
The proximity sensor detects a reflected light of the infrared ray
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile device and a corresponding proximity detection method are provided. The mobile device includes an infrared emitter and a proximity sensor. The infrared emitter emits an infrared using first power in a first mode or emits the infrared using second power in a second mode. The first power and the second power are different. The proximity sensor detects the reflection of the infrared and determines whether or not there is an object in close proximity to the mobile device based on the reflection.