Optical Deflectable Surface Sensing Without a Microphone Sound Port
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices fail to precisely detect the motion of a deflectable surface, particularly in applications like mobile phones, where traditional microphone structures with sound ports are inadequate for sensing acoustic signals effectively.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a deflectable element with a reflective surface, an optical emitter, and an optical receiver, which uses reflected optical signals to determine the motion of the deflectable surface, allowing for precise evaluation and potentially replacing traditional microphone structures by using the device as an optical microphone without a sound port.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional microphone structures with sound ports are used, then acoustic signals can be detected, but measurement precision of surface motion is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical/electrical microphone structure with an optical measurement system. An optical emitter projects light onto the deflectable surface, and an optical receiver detects the reflected light to measure surface motion with high precision, eliminating the need for complex mechanical diaphragms and sound ports.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light as an intermediary medium to transfer information about surface motion. The optical emitter and receiver use reflected light patterns to indirectly measure the motion of the deflectable surface, providing precise measurement without direct mechanical contact.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If sound ports are included in the housing, then acoustic signals can enter the microphone, but water and dust protection is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the acoustic coupling method (requiring sound ports) with optical coupling. The optical emitter and receiver can be positioned on the housing surface, detecting surface vibrations through the housing material itself, eliminating the need for openings that would compromise sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflectable surface serves multiple functions: it acts as both the acoustic sensing element and the optical reflection surface. The housing material itself becomes the transmission medium for both acoustic waves and optical signals, integrating multiple functions into single components.
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 enables precise detection of surface motion and acoustic signals with improved signal quality and design flexibility, including enhanced water and dust protection, and the ability to eliminate the need for a sound port, maintaining acoustic performance.
Implementation Method 1
an optical receiver configured for receiving a reflected optical signal from the reflective surface
Data Source
AI summary
A device for sensing a motion of a deflectable surface includes a deflectable element having a first side beam deflectable and includes a reflective surface at a second side of the deflectable element, proposing the first side. The device includes an optical emitter for emitting an optical signal towards the reflective surface and an optical receiver for receiving a reflected optical signal from the reflective surface and for providing a reception signal based on a reflective optical signal. The device includes a control unit in communication with the optical receiver for determining information related to the motion of the deflectable element based on the reception signal.