Tactile Sensor Activation Detection Algorithm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing algorithms for detecting activation of tactile pressure sensors using Force Sensing Resistors (FSR) technology fail to reliably detect sensor activation due to environmental influences, mechanical warping, and fast variations in preload, leading to unreliable detection and sensitivity to electromagnetic interference.
Innovation Solution
An algorithm that periodically measures input quantities when the sensor is not pressed, computes idle quantities, and sets activation thresholds based on sensor characterization to adapt to dynamic changes, ensuring reliable detection and extended resistance value range monitoring, while also being less sensitive to electromagnetic interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If existing algorithms measure FSR output changes during a time interval to detect touch, then detection simplicity is maintained, but reliability decreases due to environmental influences and mechanical warping
Solution Approach 1:
The algorithm performs preliminary characterization of the sensor's idle state by measuring the idle quantity multiple times and computing an average value before actual detection begins. This preliminary action establishes a baseline that accounts for environmental conditions and mechanical warping, improving reliability without significantly increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The algorithm continuously monitors the sensor output and compares it against dynamically updated thresholds. When a touch is detected, the system provides feedback by updating the idle quantity baseline, allowing the detection algorithm to adapt to changing environmental conditions while maintaining simplicity
2Reliability
If the algorithm adapts to dynamic changes by computing idle quantities and setting activation thresholds, then detection reliability improves, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The algorithm performs idle quantity measurements only when the sensor is confirmed to be in an idle state, rather than continuously processing all sensor data. This partial action approach reduces processing time while still maintaining reliable detection by updating thresholds at appropriate intervals
Solution Approach 2:
The algorithm periodically updates the idle quantity baseline and activation thresholds at predetermined intervals rather than continuously. This periodic action maintains detection reliability while significantly reducing processing time compared to continuous adaptation
3Adaptability or versatility
If the algorithm monitors extended resistance value ranges, then adaptability to mechanical constraints improves, but sensitivity to electromagnetic interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The algorithm introduces intermediary threshold values that are computed based on the idle quantity and characterization data. These thresholds act as intermediaries that filter out high-frequency electromagnetic noise while still allowing legitimate sensor activations across the extended range to be detected
Solution Approach 2:
The algorithm dynamically adjusts detection parameters including threshold levels and measurement intervals based on the observed idle state and environmental conditions. This parameter adaptation allows the system to maintain sensitivity across extended resistance ranges while reducing vulnerability to electromagnetic interference through adaptive filtering
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
The algorithm provides reliable detection of sensor activation with minimal processing delay and increased dynamic range, effectively discriminating between slow user actuations and fast environmental changes, and adapts to mechanical and environmental constraints.
Implementation Method 1
FSR technology working in preloaded condition... measuring an input quantity of the sensor... computing a current idle quantity depending on the input quantity
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an algorithm for detecting activation of a tactile pressure sensor having a mechanic structure that includes the steps of: (a) measuring periodically an input quantity (V0; f0) of the sensor, when it is not pressed, the period being set according to sensor dynamic requirements; (b) computing a current idle quantity (Vidle; fidle) depending on the input quantity (V0; f0) measured at step a); (c) computing an activation threshold (ΔVP; ΔfP) based on a quantity characterization of the sensor mechanic structure and depending on the idle quantity (Vidle; fidle) defined at step b); (d) comparing the sensor input quantity (V0; f0) with the last defined idle quantity (Vidle; fidle) increased by the activation threshold (ΔVP; ΔfP) computed in step c) in order to determine whether the sensor is pressed or not.