Proximity Sensor Signal Switching for Accurate RF-Coexistent Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current proximity sensors in electronic devices rely on single sensing information, leading to false detection due to environmental interference like water and humidity, and can disrupt communication module operations, affecting device performance.
Innovation Solution
A proximity sensor system using two different sensing signals, combining self-inductance and mutual-inductance sensing modes to accurately differentiate between human presence and environmental interference, and synchronizing with the communication module's state to minimize interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single sensing signal is used for proximity detection, then the device complexity is reduced, but the sensing accuracy deteriorates due to false detection from environmental interference
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing element is divided into multiple independent sensing regions that generate separate sensing signals. Each sensing region can detect different aspects of the electromagnetic field, allowing the system to distinguish between human body proximity and environmental interference by analyzing multiple segmented signals rather than a single aggregate signal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs multiple sensing signals with different parameters (such as different frequencies, polarizations, or spatial orientations) to probe the electromagnetic environment. By comparing parameter variations across multiple signals, the system can identify patterns characteristic of human body proximity versus environmental factors like water or humidity.
2Reliability
If the proximity sensor operates continuously to improve detection reliability, then the sensing accuracy is improved, but the interference with the communication module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The proximity sensor operates in periodic cycles, alternating between sensing phases and idle phases. During sensing phases, the sensor actively transmits electromagnetic signals to detect proximity. During idle phases, the sensor remains inactive, allowing the communication module to operate without interference. This periodic operation maintains detection reliability over time while minimizing continuous interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor's operating state is dynamically adjusted based on communication module activity. When the communication module is actively transmitting or receiving signals, the proximity sensor transitions to a low-interference mode or pauses operation. When the communication module is idle, the proximity sensor becomes active. This dynamic coordination allows both functions to operate reliably without mutual interference.
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
Enhances sensing accuracy by distinguishing between human proximity and environmental factors, reducing false detection and interference with communication modules, thereby improving device performance.
Implementation Method 1
executing a self-inductance sensing mode and a mutual-inductance mode for generating a self-inductance sensing signal and a mutual-inductance sensing signal
Implementation Method 2
executing a self-inductance sensing mode and a mutual-inductance mode for generating a self-inductance sensing signal and a mutual-inductance sensing signal
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a proximity sensor and a proximity sensing method. The proximity sensor includes a sensing element and a sensing circuit. The sensing circuit is coupled to the sensing element and transmits a first driving signal and a second signal to the sensing element, respectively. The sensing element receives the first driving signal and the second driving signal, respectively, and generates a first sensing signal and a second sensing signal, respectively. The sensing circuit generates a proximity signal according to the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal. Therefore, the present invention may improve the accuracy of sensing the proximity of the human body whether near to the sensor. In addition, the sensing circuit is further coupled to a radio-frequency circuit, and the sensing circuit transmits a driving signal or/and receives a sensing signal according to the state of the radio-frequency circuit, thereby reducing interference of the sensing circuit to the radio-frequency circuit.