Loudspeaker-Based Proximity Detection for Cover Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile devices require separate and often costly proximity detection systems to prevent unintentional screen activation when a cover is closed, which can be inefficient and costly, and existing solutions rely on dedicated sensors or microphones for cover detection.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing the existing loudspeaker hardware to detect close proximity by analyzing changes in loudspeaker parameters, such as pressure build-up and membrane response, to determine if an object is present, thereby enabling cover detection without the need for additional sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated proximity sensor or microphone is used for cover detection, then proximity detection reliability is improved, but device cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The loudspeaker is designed to perform multiple functions: audio output and proximity detection. By analyzing changes in the loudspeaker's electrical parameters (impedance, current draw) and acoustic characteristics when an object approaches, the system eliminates the need for separate proximity sensors or microphones, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining detection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The loudspeaker serves itself by using its own operational characteristics to detect proximity. The system monitors the loudspeaker's electrical and acoustic behavior during normal audio playback, and changes in these parameters automatically indicate the presence of a cover or nearby object, enabling self-detection without external sensing components
2Use of energy by moving object
If the touchscreen controller is switched off or configured in low-power mode during calls, then power consumption is reduced, but responsiveness to user interaction may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses proximity detection to predict user intent before actual screen interaction is needed. When the loudspeaker detects a cover or nearby object, it proactively disables the touchscreen controller in advance, preventing unnecessary power consumption while ensuring the screen remains responsive when the user actually needs to interact with it
3Use of energy by moving object
If the screen lighting is disabled during calls, then power consumption is reduced, but visibility for the user is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The screen lighting system dynamically adjusts its operation based on real-time proximity detection. When the loudspeaker detects that a cover is present or an object is nearby, the screen lighting is disabled to save power. When proximity is cleared, lighting is automatically restored, providing adaptive visibility control that balances power consumption with user needs
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
This approach allows for reliable and cost-effective cover detection, saving power and eliminating the need for separate proximity detection systems, while also protecting the loudspeaker from overdrive, thus enhancing user experience and battery life.
Implementation Method 1
a loudspeaker for generating an acoustic signal... the speaker moving outwards toward the object will be sensitive to the fact that there is a larger than usual pressure build-up between the speaker and the object as the pressure wave is not allowed to move freely from the speaker
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method and system for detection of an object in proximity to an electronic device, which method comprises the steps of: —producing, via the processing unit using one or more parameters relating to a loudspeaker, a controlled audio signal; —amplifying using an amplifier at least said controlled audio signal, thereby producing an amplified audio signal at an amplifier output; wherein an amplitude of the controlled audio signal is such that the amplified audio signal is less than or equal to an amplitude determined to be safe for the loudspeaker in view of the one or more parameters, —analyzing at least one of said one or more parameters relating to the loudspeaker to detect a change in response of the loudspeaker; the change in response being caused by an object that is present in the acoustical path of the loudspeaker, —determining, based upon the analysis whether the object is located in close proximity to the electronic device.