Laptop Pick-Up Detection for Proactive Power-State Transitions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices lack the ability to detect a pick-up state, such as being lifted by a user, which limits the customization of power state transitions and hinders improvements in user experience, battery duration, energy conservation, and heat management.

Innovation Solution

The device employs a multi-sensor system, including an accelerometer, to detect a pick-up state by analyzing acceleration along multiple axes, using different algorithms based on the orientation and lid status of the device, allowing it to transition between power states proactively.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the device uses a single algorithm to detect pick-up state, then the detection logic is simple, but it cannot accurately detect pick-up state across different operation modes (clamshell, closed, tablet, tent, stand modes)

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection capability across different operation modesVSAvoidalgorithm complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the pick-up detection function into multiple operation mode-specific algorithms. Each algorithm (first algorithm for closed/tablet modes, second algorithm for clamshell/tent/stand modes) is segmented to handle specific mode characteristics, enabling accurate detection across all modes while keeping each individual algorithm relatively simple

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Use of energy by moving object

If the device transitions between power states proactively based on pick-up detection, then user experience and energy efficiency are improved, but the device requires additional sensors and processing capability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidsensor and processing requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device performs preliminary pick-up detection using accelerometer data before actually transitioning power states. By detecting the pick-up state in advance and then proactively transitioning to appropriate power states, the system optimizes energy usage without requiring complex real-time processing during the actual state change

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The device uses its existing accelerometer sensor and processing capabilities to autonomously detect pick-up states and trigger power state transitions without requiring external input or additional complex processing systems. The device serves itself by leveraging already-present components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enhances user experience and energy efficiency by enabling proactive power state transitions based on detecting the pick-up state, improving battery life and reducing heat and noise.

Implementation Method 1

an accelerometer configured to measure accelerations along a first axis, a second axis transverse to the first axis, and a third axis transverse to the first axis and the second axis

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAccelerometer: Accelerometer

Data Source

PatentEP4321969B1Device pick-up detection
Publication Date: 2025.10.29 STMICROELECTRONICS SRL
  • EP4321969B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4321969B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4321969B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The present disclosure is directed to pick-up state detection for an electronic device, such as a laptop. In a pick-up state, the device is picked or lifted up from a surface, such as a table. A power state of the device is adjusted in response to detecting the pick-up state. For example, the device is in a hibernate state while set on the table, and is switched to a working state in response to detecting the pick-up state.