Proximity Gesturing Sensor System for 3D Position Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sensor systems are inadequate in providing accurate three-dimensional position information of objects without physical contact, particularly in detecting the presence and position of objects in a detection space using multiple sensors or a single image sensor.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of sensor systems that include multiple sensors arranged in a plane or a single image sensor, along with microelectronic circuits and stimulus emitters, to generate three-dimensional position data by processing signals from these sensors, allowing for the detection of objects without physical contact. These systems utilize capacitance, sound waves, light, or image data to determine object positions within a detection space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple sensors or a single image sensor are used to detect objects without physical contact, then non-contact object detection capability is improved, but measurement precision of three-dimensional position information deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensors (capacitive sensors, acoustic sensors, optical sensors) into an integrated sensor system that works together to detect objects without physical contact. By merging different sensing modalities, the system achieves accurate three-dimensional position information while maintaining non-contact detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional sensor planes to three-dimensional position detection by incorporating depth information through multiple sensing dimensions. The system uses capacitance, acoustic, and optical data across different spatial dimensions to reconstruct accurate 3D object positions, resolving the limitation of planar sensors.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple sensors are arranged in a plane to detect objects, then detection coverage area is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional sensor system where a single integrated circuit performs multiple sensing functions (capacitive sensing, acoustic sensing, optical sensing) rather than requiring separate dedicated circuits for each function. This universal approach expands detection coverage while managing system complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer that integrates data from multiple sensor types and coordinates their operation. This intermediary circuitry manages the complexity of multiple sensors by providing a unified interface and coordinated control, allowing expanded detection coverage without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
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 accurate detection and positioning of objects in three dimensions within a detection space, providing position, velocity, and acceleration data, and allowing for non-contact object tracking and control in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
The capacitive sensors may include four coplanar capacitive sensors that provide sensor data indicative of a position of the object in the detection space
Implementation Method 2
The acoustic sensors may include a microphone array that provides sensor data indicative of a position of the object
Implementation Method 3
The optical sensors may include an array of image sensors, such as a camera, that provides sensor data indicative of a position of the object
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes sensor substantially coplanar with one another in a sensor plane, each sensor generating a sense value that varies according to a physical distance between the sensor and an object. The device also includes control circuits configured to generate a first position value, a second position value, and a third value using the sense values in a first mode to detect a hover or glove operation by the object. The first position value and the second position values identify a two-dimensional position of the object in the sensor plane and the third value varies in response to movement of the object in a Z-direction substantially perpendicular to the sensor plane. The control circuits are also configured to generate a fourth position value and a fifth position value in a second mode to detect a touch operation by the object. The control circuits include a programmable integrated circuit including an analog portion and a digital portion.