RF Resonator User Input Device for Non-Contact Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional user input devices rely on physical contact for sensing, limiting their ability to detect proximity and three-dimensional positioning of user input entities, which restricts their functionality and accuracy compared to radio frequency (RF) sensors that can operate without physical contact and provide continuous detection of user input entities.
Innovation Solution
A user interface device incorporating RF resonator circuitry that generates an electromagnetic field, measures impedance changes caused by user input entities, and processes these changes to determine user input commands, enabling continuous detection of proximity and location without physical contact, utilizing RF resonators integrated into the device's casing or fixing mechanisms, and supporting wireless communication protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional touch-sensitive sensors are used, then physical contact sensing is achieved, but three-dimensional positioning and proximity detection are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based touch sensors with radio frequency (RF) sensing technology that uses electromagnetic fields to detect user input entities. This substitution enables non-contact detection, three-dimensional positioning, and proximity sensing without requiring physical contact between the sensor and the user's finger, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and adaptability.
2Productivity
If physical contact sensing is used, then simple sensor structure is maintained, but continuous detection without contact is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates RF resonator circuitry that can simultaneously perform multiple functions: generating electromagnetic fields for sensing, detecting proximity of user input entities, determining three-dimensional position, and enabling continuous non-contact detection. This multi-functionality approach allows the sensor to achieve continuous detection capability while managing device complexity through integrated circuit design.
3Ease of operation
If RF resonator circuitry is integrated into casing, then non-contact detection is enabled, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the RF resonator circuitry with the device casing or fixing mechanisms, combining structural and sensing functions into a single integrated component. This merging approach enables non-contact detection while simplifying manufacturing by eliminating separate sensor modules and reducing assembly steps, thereby resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and ease of manufacture.
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 accurate three-dimensional positioning and continuous detection of user input entities, enhancing user interface functionality beyond conventional touch-sensitive devices by allowing non-contact interaction and efficient mapping of impedance measurements to user input commands, thereby improving user experience and device interaction.
Implementation Method 1
radio frequency (RF) resonator circuitry configured to generate an electromagnetic field
Implementation Method 2
measurement circuitry configured to measure an electric property of the radio frequency (RF) resonator
Data Source
Figure 1A~2B
Figure 2C~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
This document discloses an apparatus (100), such as a smartwatch, comprising: a radio frequency radiator circuitry comprising an elongated radio frequency resonator (104, 106, 108, 110, 114) and configured to generate an electromagnetic field extending from the radio frequency resonator; a measurement circuitry configured to measure an electric property of the radio frequency resonator responsive to a proximity of an object (210), when the radio frequency radiator circuitry is generating the electromagnetic field; and a processing circuitry configured to convert the measured electric property into a user input command. In other word, said apparatus functions as a radio frequency based input device.