Sheet Detection Electrode for Flexible Vehicle Human Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle human detection devices using capacitance sensors are limited by the size of the door handle and require incorporation of detection electrodes, restricting arrangement flexibility and feasibility without a door handle.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle human detection device with a conductive detection electrode in a sheet shape covering a housing surface, insulated by layers, and a capacitive coupling prevention electrode in non-detection areas, allowing for flexible arrangement and detection based on capacitance changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a capacitance sensor is incorporated in a door handle, then the detection function is achieved, but the detection area is limited to the size of the door handle and arrangement flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The detection electrode is divided into multiple independent detection areas (first detection area, second detection area, etc.), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows the detection function to be distributed across multiple locations on the housing surface, increasing both the total detection area and arrangement flexibility without requiring a door handle structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection electrode is configured to extend in multiple dimensions across the housing surface rather than being confined to a single door handle location. By utilizing the two-dimensional housing surface for electrode placement, the invention expands the detection area while maintaining flexibility in spatial arrangement.
2Reliability
If a capacitance sensor is incorporated in a door handle, then the detection function is achieved, but the device complexity increases due to incorporation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The detection electrode is integrated directly into the housing structure itself, merging the detection function with the existing housing rather than requiring a separate door handle component. This integration eliminates the need for additional incorporation structures, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable detection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support and simultaneously acts as the substrate for the detection electrode. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated sensor incorporation structures, simplifying the overall device structure while ensuring reliable detection operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a sheet-shaped detection electrode covers the housing surface, then arrangement flexibility is improved, but capacitive coupling noise may increase
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the housing surface are assigned different electrode configurations based on their specific functional requirements. Detection areas are strategically positioned and sized according to local needs, allowing optimization of detection performance while minimizing capacitive coupling effects in specific problematic regions.
Solution Approach 2:
Insulation layers are introduced as intermediary elements between the detection electrode and the housing, or between adjacent detection areas. These insulation layers act as mediators that prevent unwanted capacitive coupling while allowing the detection electrode to maintain its sheet-shaped configuration for flexible arrangement.
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 high flexibility in device arrangement, reduces structural complexity, and enhances noise resistance, allowing for multiple detection areas without increasing load capacity or altering the housing design.
Implementation Method 1
detect that a human touches the detection area based on a change in a capacitance of the detection electrode
Implementation Method 2
an insulation layer stacked to cover the detection electrode
Implementation Method 3
a capacitive coupling prevention electrode stacked on an area of the insulation layer that covers a non-detection area of the detection electrode
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle human detection device includes: a conductive detection electrode provided in a sheet shape to cover a surface of a housing; an insulation layer stacked to cover the detection electrode; a capacitive coupling prevention electrode stacked on an area of the insulation layer that covers a non-detection area of the detection electrode other than a preset detection area; and a detection control unit configured to apply an AC voltage to the detection electrode and detect that a human touches the detection area based on a change in a capacitance of the detection electrode.