Electronic Keyboard Camera Key Detection Optical Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Observing long objects, such as keyboards with many keys, at high resolution is challenging due to the need to be far away, which results in a small image making detailed observation difficult.
Innovation Solution
A row division optical module, like a prism, is installed in front of a camera to capture the left and right sides of a long object in two rows within the camera's field of view, allowing for high-resolution imaging of a large number of keys simultaneously, and replacing complex switch circuits with a simple camera module for key detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors or switches are installed for each key to detect key movement, then key detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a camera to capture optical images of the keyboard, creating a visual copy of the key positions and movements. Image processing algorithms then analyze these images to detect key presses, replacing the need for physical sensors or switches at each key location. This copying approach maintains detection accuracy while eliminating complex circuitry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical system of switches and sensors with an optical system using a camera and image processing. Instead of electrical contacts detecting key presses, the system uses light reflection and image analysis to detect key movements, thereby eliminating the need for complex switch circuits and reducing device complexity.
2Device complexity
If a camera is used to capture the entire keyboard, then the number of parts is reduced, but the resolution of each key becomes insufficient for accurate detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the keyboard detection task by dividing the image processing into key regions of interest. The image is partitioned into individual key areas, and detection algorithms focus on analyzing movements within each segmented region. This segmentation allows a single camera to achieve sufficient resolution for each key by concentrating processing power on specific areas rather than requiring multiple cameras.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enhances detection capability by utilizing the temporal dimension through video sequencing. Instead of relying solely on spatial resolution from a single static image, the system captures a sequence of images over time and analyzes key movements across frames. This temporal dimension compensates for limited spatial resolution, enabling accurate key detection with a single camera.
3Reliability
If traditional switch circuits are used for each key, then key detection reliability is maintained, but manufacturing cost and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single camera module that serves multiple functions: detecting key presses, determining key positions, and tracking key movements across the entire keyboard. This universal sensor replaces the need for individual switches at each key location, reducing the total number of components while maintaining detection reliability through sophisticated image processing algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital visual copy of the keyboard state through camera imaging, replacing physical electrical copies (switch circuits). This optical copying approach eliminates the need for numerous electrical contacts and wiring, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining reliable detection through non-contact optical sensing that has no wear or contact failure issues.
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 simplifies the manufacturing of digital pianos, improves reliability, reduces weight, and allows for a more aesthetically pleasing design by eliminating opaque cases and printed circuit boards, while enabling low-cost production and efficient key movement detection.
Implementation Method 1
a row division optical module, like a prism, is installed in front of a camera to capture the left and right sides of a long object in two rows within the camera's field of view
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic keyboard using a camera, and more particularly, to an electronic keyboard using a camera, which includes a retroreflective film, a light source for irradiating light on to the retroreflective film, a camera for capturing light of a light source retroreflected from the retroreflective film, and an image processing means that analyzes the captured image to track the position of the reflected light source, to find a depressed state of the keyboard, and to generate a sound of an instrument corresponding to the depressed state.