Paired Force Sensor Correlation for Multi-Point Squeeze Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing force sensor technologies face challenges in accurately and robustly detecting user squeeze inputs in portable devices, particularly when forces are applied simultaneously across multiple sensors or in different locations, due to noise and variability in sensor signals.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a cross-correlation method between pairs of force sensors, using a smoothing parameter to generate and normalize cross-correlation values, allows for the detection of user squeeze inputs by determining whether the cross-correlation value exceeds a threshold, either instantly or over a defined period, enabling robust squeeze detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional force sensor detection methods are used, then the device can detect user inputs, but the detection accuracy deteriorates when forces are applied simultaneously across multiple sensors or in different locations due to noise and signal variability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces cross-correlation as an intermediary mathematical operation between the sensor signals. Instead of directly comparing raw sensor readings, the system computes cross-correlation values that serve as a mediator to identify synchronized force applications across sensors, effectively filtering out noise and unrelated variations in the signal
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring cross-correlation values between sensor pairs and comparing them against threshold criteria. When the cross-correlation exceeds the threshold, the system confirms a squeeze input and can trigger appropriate responses, creating a closed-loop detection mechanism that adapts to varying force conditions
2Adaptability or versatility
If force sensors are placed at multiple locations to detect squeeze inputs, then the coverage of user interaction is improved, but the complexity of processing sensor signals increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex multi-sensor detection problem into simpler pairwise comparisons. By dividing the sensor array into pairs and computing cross-correlation for each pair independently, the system reduces the complexity of processing signals from multiple sensors while maintaining comprehensive coverage of user interactions across different device locations
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the results from multiple sensor pair comparisons by applying threshold criteria to the cross-correlation values. When multiple pairs exceed the threshold, the system integrates these indications to confirm a squeeze input, combining information from distributed sensors into a unified detection decision
Data Source
AI summary
A device, comprising: a pair of force sensors located for detecting a user squeeze input; and a controller operable in a squeeze detection operation to detect the user squeeze input based on a cross-correlation between respective sensor signals originating from the pair of force sensors.