Oblique Electrode Layout for Multi-Object Proximity Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing proximity detection technologies face challenges in accurately and efficiently detecting multiple objects due to 'ghost' occurrences and slow detection speeds, particularly when using orthogonal electrode configurations.

Innovation Solution

A proximity detecting device employing obliquely crossing detection electrode groups, including first, second, and obliquely crossing detection electrode groups, with a control mechanism to switch between single-point and multi-point detection modes based on electrostatic capacitance measurements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If orthogonal electrode groups (X-axis and Y-axis) are used for proximity detection, then detection speed is high, but detection accuracy deteriorates due to ghost occurrences when multiple objects are present

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection speedVSAvoiddetection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a third detection dimension by adding obliquely crossing detection electrode groups (at 45 degrees) to the traditional orthogonal X-axis and Y-axis electrode groups. This three-directional electrode configuration enables the system to distinguish between single and multiple objects by comparing capacitance changes across different directional axes, eliminating ghost detections while maintaining high-speed collective detection capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If sequential detection of X-axis electrodes is performed to prevent ghost occurrences, then detection accuracy is improved, but detection speed deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoiddetection speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the detection process into two distinct modes: a first detection mode using only orthogonal electrode groups for high-speed single-object detection, and a second detection mode that activates obliquely crossing electrode groups when multiple objects are detected. This segmentation allows the system to maintain high detection speed for common single-object scenarios while enabling accurate multi-object detection when needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Measurement precision

If four electrodes in mutually different directions are arranged to detect multiple objects, then detection accuracy is improved, but detection speed deteriorates due to sequential driving requirement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoiddetection speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the advantages of both orthogonal and oblique electrode configurations into a unified three-directional detection system. By combining X-axis, Y-axis, and 45-degree oblique electrode groups that all extend in the same direction, the system enables collective detection of multiple objects simultaneously across all three directions, achieving both high accuracy and high speed without requiring sequential driving

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables high-speed and accurate detection of single or multiple objects by optimizing detection sequences and reducing power consumption through mode switching.

Implementation Method 1

detecting means that is capable of detecting electrostatic capacitances according to a proximity state of a detection-target object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrostatic capacitance: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentEP3889745B1Proximity detector having oblique detection electrode group
Publication Date: 2025.12.31 ALPS ALPINE CO LTD
  • EP3889745B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3889745B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3889745B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A proximity detecting device comprises: a first detection electrode group having a plurality of detection electrodes; a second detection electrode group having a plurality of detection electrodes that orthogonally crosses the first detection electrode group; an obliquely crossing detection electrode group having a plurality of detection electrodes that obliquely crosses each of the first detection electrode group and the second detection electrode group; detecting means that is capable of detecting electrostatic capacitances according to a proximity state of a detection-target object for each of the first detection electrode group, the second detection electrode group, and the obliquely crossing detection electrode group; and controlling means that performs execution through switching between a first detection mode in which the proximity state of the detection-target object is determined based on the electrostatic capacitances of each of the first detection electrode group and the second detection electrode group and a second detection mode in which a proximity state of each of the plurality of detection-target objects is determined based on the electrostatic capacitances of each of the first detection electrode group, the second detection electrode group, and the obliquely crossing detection electrode group.