Multipoint Contact Sensing for Precise Intermediate Zone Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for detecting hand contact and pressure on a steering wheel are not optimal in terms of localization and measurement accuracy, complexity, and cost-effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A detection device with N sensing structures that can determine contact at primary and intermediate zones, using polynomial interpolation for pressure sensitivity correction, and a processing circuit to analyze LC resonant frequency variations for precise localization and pressure estimation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple separate contact detection devices are used to cover different detection zones, then the detection coverage is improved, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate contact detection devices into a single integrated device. The housing (10) contains multiple sensing structures (20) that detect contact at different locations simultaneously, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices while maintaining comprehensive detection coverage across the gaming device surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated contact detection device performs multiple detection functions through a single unit. The processing circuit (3) processes signals from multiple sensing structures (20) to detect various contact scenarios including single-point contact, multipoint contact, and determination of object characteristics, making the device universal for different detection needs.
2Measurement precision
If the gap between sensing structures is reduced to detect multipoint contact, then the detection precision for intermediate zones is improved, but the sensing structures may interfere with each other
Solution Approach 1:
The processing circuit (3) acts as an intermediary that receives and analyzes disturbance signals from multiple sensing structures (20). It processes the signals to distinguish between genuine multipoint contact events and interference effects, using the pattern recognition capability to determine whether detected disturbances represent actual contact points or mutual interference between adjacent sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses more sensing structures (20) than the minimum required for basic contact detection. This excessive placement of sensors ensures that even when interference occurs between adjacent structures, there are enough independent sensing elements to reliably detect and distinguish multiple contact points through pattern analysis in the processing circuit.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sensing structures are placed close together to define intermediate detection zones, then the ability to detect multipoint contact is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The processing circuit (3) implements feedback processing of disturbance signals from multiple sensing structures (20). By analyzing the patterns and relationships between signals from adjacent sensors, the system can compensate for variations in sensor positioning and spacing, allowing the detection of multipoint contact even when manufacturing precision varies within acceptable tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for variations in the physical parameters of the sensing structures, such as the exact gap distance between them. The processing circuit is configured to detect multipoint contact based on disturbance patterns rather than requiring precise predetermined spacing, making the detection capability robust to manufacturing variations in sensor placement and spacing.
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 spatial resolution and reduces the number of sensing structures required, providing accurate hand localization and pressure measurement with reduced integration complexity and cost.
Implementation Method 1
at least two capacitive or inductive sensing structures (20), associated with respective primary detection zones of a surface that a person is likely to contact
Implementation Method 2
at least two capacitive or inductive sensing structures (20), associated with respective primary detection zones of a surface that a person is likely to contact
Implementation Method 3
define at least one intermediate detection zone that the person is likely to contact while exerting a capacitive or inductive disturbance on the adjacent sensing structures
Implementation Method 4
define at least one intermediate detection zone that the person is likely to contact while exerting a capacitive or inductive disturbance on the adjacent sensing structures
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Multipoint contact detection device (1), comprising: - At least two capacitive or inductive sensitive structures (20), associated with respective primary detection zones of a surface that a person is likely to contact, these sensitive structures being positioned with a sufficiently small gap between them to define at least one intermediate detection zone that the person is likely to contact while exerting a capacitive or inductive disturbance on the adjacent sensitive structures, - a processing circuit (3) configured to detect for each sensitive structure (20) a disturbance induced by the person coming near or into contact with it and to locate the region or regions of the surface with which the person comes into contact relative to the primary and intermediate detection zone(s).