Dynamic Proximity Sensor Threshold Adjustment for Detection Accuracy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional portable electronic devices experience inaccurate proximity detection due to gaps between proximity sensors and their covers, as well as dirt accumulation, leading to unacceptable performance.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for controlling electronic devices that dynamically adjust the proximity sensor threshold based on application status, using a control circuit to determine conditions such as application foreground status, and perform auto-calibration to enhance detection accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a fixed proximity sensor threshold is used, then the device structure is simple, but the proximity detection accuracy deteriorates due to gaps and dirt

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproximity detection accuracyVSAvoidsensor control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a fixed proximity sensor threshold to a dynamic threshold that automatically adjusts based on detected conditions. The control circuit monitors proximity sensor outputs and modifies the threshold in real-time to compensate for gaps and dirt, resolving the contradiction between maintaining simple structure and achieving accurate detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of the proximity sensor threshold from a static value to a variable that adapts to environmental conditions. By modifying the threshold parameter dynamically based on sensor readings and detected patterns, the system maintains detection accuracy despite physical degradation from gaps and dirt accumulation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If the proximity sensor threshold is adjusted dynamically, then the proximity detection accuracy is improved, but the control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection reliabilityVSAvoidcontrol circuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service through automatic threshold adjustment where the control circuit autonomously monitors proximity sensor outputs and modifies the threshold without user intervention. The system detects patterns indicating gaps or dirt and automatically compensates, improving reliability while minimizing the need for complex external control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs feedback by continuously monitoring the proximity sensor output and using this information to adjust the threshold dynamically. The control circuit creates a closed-loop system where detection results feed back into threshold modification, ensuring reliable detection while keeping control complexity manageable through algorithmic automation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If manual calibration is performed, then the detection accuracy can be improved, but the user convenience deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor calibration accuracyVSAvoiduser operation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing automatic calibration routines that prepare the sensor system for accurate operation before actual use. The control circuit executes threshold adjustment and compensation algorithms proactively, eliminating the need for users to perform manual calibration and thereby maintaining both accuracy and convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements self-service calibration where the system automatically detects calibration needs and performs adjustment without user involvement. The control circuit monitors sensor performance and executes calibration routines autonomously, resolving the contradiction between achieving precise calibration and maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9977521B2Method for controlling an electronic device equipped with sensing components, and associated apparatus
Publication Date: 2018.05.22 HTC CORP
  • US9977521B2 patent drawing
  • US9977521B2 patent drawing
  • US9977521B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for controlling an electronic device and an associated apparatus are provided, where the electronic device includes a proximity sensor for performing proximity detection, and the method includes the steps of: determining whether a first condition is satisfied according to an application status; performing a proximity sensor threshold adjustment operation corresponding to the first condition when the first condition is satisfied, to obtain an adjusted proximity sensor threshold for the proximity sensor; and performing proximity detection by utilizing the proximity sensor according to the adjusted proximity sensor threshold. The step of determining whether the first condition is satisfied according to the application status may further include: when a specific application is running in the foreground or launched, determining that the first condition is satisfied. For example, when the specific application is running in the foreground, the proximity sensor threshold adjustment operation corresponding to the specific application can be performed.