Mobile Device Pattern Detection for Proximity Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for proximity detection between mobile devices and related objects, such as holsters or containers, often require additional hardware like magnetic or RFID sensors, increasing device complexity and cost, and are limited to dedicated applications.
Innovation Solution
A mobile device with an input module and pattern detection module that uses standard input devices to discern and respond to predetermined patterns, allowing for proximity detection without additional sensors, by processing information to detect non-naturally occurring patterns associated with related objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional hardware (magnetic sensor, RFID sensor) is added to the mobile device for proximity detection, then detection reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing display serve multiple functions: it acts as both a visual output device and a proximity sensor. By detecting touch patterns on the display surface, the system determines whether the device is in a holster or being held, eliminating the need for dedicated proximity sensors while maintaining detection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The display surface itself performs the sensing function without requiring external sensors. The capacitive properties of the display enable it to detect the presence and pattern of objects placed upon it, allowing the device to self-detect its environment using its own components
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional hardware (magnetic sensor, RFID sensor) is added to the mobile device for proximity detection, then proximity detection capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The display serves dual purposes as both visual output and proximity sensing interface, eliminating the need for separate sensor components and reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system detects changes in capacitive parameters of the display surface to determine proximity states. By monitoring electrical properties rather than using physical sensors, the solution reduces component count and manufacturing complexity
3Measurement precision
If additional hardware (magnetic sensor, RFID sensor) is added to the mobile device for proximity detection, then proximity detection accuracy is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The display's inherent capacitive properties are used for sensing without requiring active power-consuming sensors. The detection leverages the display's own electrical characteristics, enabling passive sensing that consumes minimal additional power
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors changes in electrical parameters of the display surface to detect proximity events. This approach uses the display's existing electrical properties rather than activating additional power-hungry sensing hardware
4Device complexity
If standard input devices are used for pattern detection instead of additional sensors, then device complexity is reduced, but detection precision may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-defines specific touch patterns that correspond to holster placement. By establishing predetermined patterns beforehand, the system can accurately distinguish holster detection from normal usage without requiring complex real-time analysis, maintaining precision while using simple hardware
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods and apparatus are provided related to proximity detection between a mobile device and a related object or device, such as a holder, holster, pocket liner, support surface, or the like. A pattern is associated with the related object, for example printed on a surface thereof, the pattern being discernable by a mobile device input module, such as a touch surface or optical navigation module. When the pattern is presented to the input module, the mobile device detects the pattern and may respond accordingly, for example by shifting to a standby mode or suppressing mobile device inputs.