Audio Transducer Cover Detection for Static Object Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing proximity detection methods in electronic devices, such as smartphones, are slow and unreliable, especially when a static object covers the sensor, leading to unintentional screen activation and poor user experience.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing existing acoustic transducers for both speaking and listening, the method transmits an acoustic signal and analyzes changes in sensed acoustic impedance to detect a cover, adapting the interrogation signal based on ambient noise and user interactions to ensure quick and reliable cover detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional proximity detection methods are used, then power consumption is reduced by switching off the touchscreen controller, but cover detection becomes slow and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by using existing audio transducers (microphones and speakers) for both their primary audio functions and for cover detection. The same transducers that handle speaking and listening are repurposed to transmit acoustic interrogation signals and detect cover presence through acoustic impedance changes, eliminating the need for dedicated proximity sensors and enabling rapid cover detection without additional power consumption overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or dedicated sensor-based proximity detection with an acoustic field-based detection system. By using sound waves and acoustic impedance measurements through existing audio transducers, the system achieves fast and reliable cover detection without relying on mechanical sensors or dedicated proximity detection hardware, thereby reducing time loss while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If dedicated sensors such as NFC or magnetic sensors are used for flip-cover detection, then cover detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by using existing audio transducers (microphones and speakers) for both their primary audio functions and for cover detection. The same transducers that handle speaking and listening are repurposed to transmit acoustic interrogation signals and detect cover presence through acoustic impedance changes, eliminating the need for dedicated proximity sensors and enabling rapid cover detection without additional power consumption overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the existing audio transducers to perform dual functions: their primary audio communication role and the secondary cover detection role. The system uses the device's own built-in microphones and speakers to detect covers, making the device self-sufficient without requiring external dedicated sensors, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining detection accuracy.
3Reliability
If ultrasound signals are used for proximity detection, then detection range is extended, but detection fails when transducers are covered by static objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using audible frequency acoustic signals instead of ultrasound frequencies for the interrogation signals. This frequency parameter change allows the acoustic waves to better interact with and be affected by static cover objects, enabling the detection system to sense covers through changes in acoustic impedance at audible frequencies where static objects have a more detectable impact on sound propagation.
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
Achieves rapid and accurate cover detection, minimizing power consumption and user interference, while optimizing the interrogation signal for ambient conditions and user actions.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting, using at least one of said transducers, an acoustic signal
Implementation Method 2
ultrasound reflected from an object to detect the proximity
Implementation Method 3
analyzing changes in sensed acoustic impedance to detect a cover
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device and method for detecting a cover over at least part of an electronic device. The device comprising at least one audio transducer adapted to transmit and receive an acoustic signal. The method includes the steps of: ⋅—defining at least one characteristic of an interrogation signal; ⋅—transmitting, using at least one of said transducers, the interrogation signal within a predetermined frequency range, having the at least one characteristic; ⋅—receiving, in at least one audio transducer, a signal, ⋅—analyzing the characteristics of the received signal and the characteristics of the transmitted signal and detecting a selected number of differences between them, ⋅—comparing the differences between the transmitted signal and the received signal with a predetermined set of differences related to an object covering at least one of the transducers in the device.