Piezoelectric Sensor Underwater Control for Electronic Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with waterproof functions cannot be controlled underwater, as the usual touch-based control methods fail due to water conductivity.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device incorporates a piezoelectric element as a second sensor, which generates an electrical signal based on physical pressure, allowing the device to detect and respond to user inputs even when submerged in water.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a capacitive touch screen is used for control, then the device can be operated easily under normal conditions, but the touch control fails when the device is submerged in water due to water conductivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a pressure sensor as an intermediary input mechanism that works reliably underwater. Instead of relying on capacitive touch which fails in water, the pressure sensor detects physical pressure applied to the device through water, serving as a mediator that translates user intent into control signals even when the device is submerged.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electrical capacitive touch system with a mechanical pressure sensing system. The pressure sensor detects mechanical pressure applied to the device housing or buttons, converting it into control signals. This mechanical-based approach works reliably underwater where electrical capacitive sensing fails due to water's conductive properties.
2Reliability
If the device is made waterproof to enable underwater use, then the device can be submerged in water, but control functions cannot be operated underwater
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure sensor serves as an intermediary control interface that works through the waterproof barrier. Users can apply pressure to the device housing or buttons, and the pressure sensor detects this mechanical input and translates it into control signals, enabling operation while maintaining the waterproof seal intact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces electrical touch control with mechanical pressure sensing for underwater operation. The pressure sensor detects mechanical forces applied to the device through the waterproof casing, converting them into usable control signals without compromising the waterproof integrity of the device.
3Reliability
If a pressure sensor is added to enable underwater control, then the device can be controlled underwater, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure sensor serves multiple functions: it enables underwater control, detects button presses, and can potentially measure water depth or pressure. By making the pressure sensor a multi-functional component, the patent reduces the need for separate specialized sensors, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity while achieving reliable underwater control.
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 the electronic device to function and be controlled underwater, providing users with the ability to use camera functions and other applications while submerged.
Implementation Method 1
The electronic device incorporates a piezoelectric element as a second sensor, which generates an electrical signal based on physical pressure
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~2
Figure 3
Figure 4A
AI summary
Disclosed is an electronic device. The disclosed electronic device may include: a first sensor and a second sensor; a display configured to display a user interface; and a processor electrically connected with the first sensor, the second sensor, and the display, in which the processor is configured to change a first user interface displayed on the display to a second user interface displayed adjacent to a position of the second sensor and to display the second user interface, based on a result of detection by the first sensor.