Sensor Position Pointer Power Gating for Battery Life
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing position pointers with power supply switches experience wasteful power consumption when not in use with a position detection sensor, necessitating frequent battery changes.
Innovation Solution
A position pointer with a signal detection circuit that controls power supply to the transmission signal production circuit based on the presence of the pointer on the detection sensor, using electrodes and a transmission controlling circuit to conserve power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the power supply switch is kept on to ensure the position pointer is ready for use, then the position pointer can respond immediately when placed on the detection sensor, but power is continuously consumed even when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply is switched periodically between on and off states based on detection results. The detection circuit periodically checks for the presence of the pointer on the sensor, and power is supplied only during periods when detection is needed or when the pointer is actually detected, rather than continuously supplying power.
Solution Approach 2:
The position pointer automatically detects its own placement on the sensor through the detection circuit and autonomously activates power supply only when needed. The system serves itself by using the detection output to control its own power consumption without external intervention.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the power supply switch is frequently operated to reduce power consumption, then wasteful energy use is reduced, but the operation complexity increases and battery exchange frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The position pointer automatically detects its own placement on the sensor through the detection circuit and autonomously activates power supply only when needed. The system serves itself by using the detection output to control its own power consumption without external intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection circuit continuously monitors the presence of the pointer on the sensor and provides feedback to the power supply control. When the pointer is detected on the sensor, the system receives feedback to activate power supply; when not detected, power supply is deactivated, creating a closed-loop control system.
3Reliability
If the power supply is continuously provided to the transmission signal production circuit, then the circuit is always ready to transmit signals, but unnecessary power is consumed when the pointer is not on the detection sensor
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply to the transmission signal production circuit is activated periodically or on-demand based on detection results rather than continuously. The circuit receives power only when the detection circuit confirms the pointer is on the sensor and signal transmission is needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply state of the transmission signal production circuit is made dynamic rather than static. The circuit transitions between powered and unpowered states based on real-time detection conditions, allowing the system to adapt its power consumption to actual operational needs.
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
Reduces power consumption by only supplying power when the pointer is in use with the detection sensor, thereby extending battery life and reducing unnecessary energy use.
Implementation Method 1
a first electrode configured to receive an AC signal from the position detection sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A position pointer is provided for indicating a position on a sensor of a position detection device. The position pointer includes: a pointer body having a distal end; a central electrode disposed near the distal end of the pointer body; a detection circuit configured to output a control signal indicative of a result of detecting a first signal transmitted from the position detection device; a battery configured to store driving power; and a power supply control circuit. The power supply control circuit is configured to control the battery, in response to the control signal indicating detection of the first signal by the detection circuit, to supply the stored driving power to a predetermined circuit.