Suspended State Control via Proximity Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Terminal devices may inadvertently exit a suspended state due to unintended input operations, such as touch operations detected when stored in a pocket, leading to unnecessary power consumption and processing.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a proximity sensor and control circuitry to detect objects within a predetermined range, which controls the input detection circuitry to stop processing related to input operations when the device is in a suspended state and in an object detection state, preventing accidental wake-ups.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the device releases from suspended state based on input operations (touch, audio), then user convenience is improved, but power consumption increases due to inadvertent wake-ups
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a proximity sensor as an intermediary component that mediates between the input detection circuitry and the suspended state control. When the proximity sensor detects an object within a predetermined range, it generates a signal that prevents the input detection circuitry from releasing the suspended state, thereby blocking inadvertent wake-ups while preserving intentional ones
Solution Approach 2:
The proximity detection is performed in advance before processing input operations. By checking the proximity state beforehand, the system can preemptively prevent power-consuming input processing when the device is in a pocket or bag, while still allowing normal operation when the device is out and accessible
2Loss of energy
If the device remains in suspended state to save power, then power efficiency is improved, but responsiveness to user input deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its operational state based on proximity conditions. When no object is detected in proximity, the device maintains the suspended state for power efficiency. When an object is detected, the system transitions to an active state that is responsive to user inputs, creating a dynamic adaptation between power savings and responsiveness based on contextual conditions
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
Prevents unintended power consumption and processing by ensuring the device remains in a suspended state unless intentionally awakened, maintaining power efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a proximity sensor configured to detect when an object is within a predetermined proximity range of the device
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a proximity sensor configured to detect when an object is within a predetermined proximity range of the device, and input detection circuitry configured to detect when an input operation is performed on the device. The terminal device includes control circuitry configured to determine a proximity detection state of the device, wherein an object detection state corresponds to a proximity state in which the object is detected within the predetermined proximity range, and an object non-detection state corresponds to a proximity state in which the object is not detected within the predetermined proximity range; control a suspended state of the device, wherein the suspended state is a state of reduced processing and/or power consumption; and control the input detection circuitry such that, when the device is in the suspended state and in the object detection state, the input detection circuitry stops input operation detection processing.