Programmable Fingerprint Sensing Circuit with Dynamic Scanning Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fingerprint sensing technologies lack flexibility in their sensing patterns, which limits their adaptability to different applications and optimization after implementation.
Innovation Solution
A fingerprint sensing circuit with programmable sensing patterns, featuring multiple I/O interconnects configured to sequentially drive fingerprint sensing elements, utilizing a memory device to store and read programmable data structures that designate patterns for driving these elements, allowing for customizable scanning sequences and settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed sensing patterns are used in fingerprint sensing circuits, then the circuit design is simpler and more reliable, but the adaptability to different applications is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic sensing patterns by using a sequence generator that can be programmed with different scanning sequences. The I/O interconnects dynamically switch between different pixel scanning orders based on stored pattern data, allowing the same hardware to adapt to various application requirements without physical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the sensing circuit by allowing programmable control of scanning sequences and pixel selection. By modifying the sequence of operations and which pixels are activated when, the system achieves different sensing patterns without changing the physical circuit structure, thus improving adaptability while maintaining reasonable complexity.
2Ease of operation
If fixed pixel scanning sequences are implemented, then the interconnect design is simpler, but optimization after implementation is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-programming multiple sensing patterns into the circuit's memory before operation. The sequence generator is configured with stored scanning sequences that can be selected and executed as needed, allowing the system to be prepared for different optimization scenarios in advance without requiring complex real-time reconfiguration hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary element - the programmable sequence generator and control logic - that mediates between the fixed interconnect hardware and the desired sensing patterns. This intermediary layer allows flexible pattern selection without requiring the interconnects themselves to be complex or reconfigurable, thus maintaining ease of operation while enabling optimization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If customizable sensing patterns are enabled, then the flexibility of the fingerprint sensing circuit is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves universality by designing a single fingerprint sensing circuit that can perform multiple sensing patterns through programmable control. The same I/O interconnects and pixel array are used for different applications by changing the scanning sequences and activation patterns, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated circuits and reducing overall system complexity despite the added flexibility.
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 customization of sensing patterns for various applications, improving the flexibility and performance of fingerprint sensing systems, allowing for optimization post-design and implementation.
Implementation Method 1
Passive capacitive technology typically utilizes an array of plates to apply an electrical current to the finger. The voltage discharge is then measured through the finger. Fingerprint ridges will typically have a substantially greater discharge potential than valleys
Implementation Method 2
optical technology may use a light source to illuminate an individual's finger while a charge-coupled device (CCD) captures an analog image
Data Source
AI summary
A fingerprint sensor with programmable sensing patterns is disclosed in one embodiment of the invention as including a fingerprint sensing circuit having multiple I/O interconnects. The I/O interconnects are configured to sequentially drive a plurality of fingerprint sensing elements. A memory device may be operably coupled to the fingerprint sensing circuit. A programmable data structure, such as a table, file, character string, numeric value, array, or the like may be stored in the memory device to designate a pattern for driving the fingerprint sensing elements. The fingerprint sensing circuit is configured to drive the fingerprint sensing elements according to the designated pattern. In selected embodiments, the fingerprint sensing elements may include transmitting elements, receiving elements, or a combination thereof.