Touch Sensor Power-On Control Without a Physical Power Key
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices face challenges in replacing physical power keys with virtual keys during the power-on state due to the difficulty in detecting user inputs on virtual keys when the device is powered off.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using a sensor, such as a touch sensor, to power on the electronic device without a physical power key by controlling a switching circuit to supply power from the battery to the touch input unit and sensor while keeping the power management IC disconnected until a designated input is detected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a physical power key is replaced with a virtual key, then the device design becomes more elegant and compact, but the ability to detect user input when the device is powered off is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical physical power key with a sensor-based detection system. The sensor (e.g., touch sensor, proximity sensor) detects user input gestures such as touching or approaching the display area, substituting the mechanical key press action with a non-contact or contactless sensing mechanism. This eliminates the need for a physical protruding key while maintaining input detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a sensor as an intermediary between the user and the power-on function. Instead of directly pressing a physical key, the user interacts with the display area, and the sensor mediates by detecting the gesture and triggering the power-on sequence. This intermediary enables virtual key functionality while preserving input detection.
2Use of energy by moving object
If power is supplied to the touch input unit only, then power consumption is reduced when powered off, but the power management IC cannot respond to user input
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares the system for power-on by supplying minimal power to the sensor and touch input unit in advance, while keeping the main power management IC and processor in a low-power state. When a user gesture is detected, the system is already primed to quickly activate the full power management function, reducing both power consumption during standby and the delay for power-on response.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic power management system where power supply to different components changes based on operational state. The sensor and touch input unit receive power in a low-power state for detection, and upon detecting a designated input, the system dynamically transitions to a full-power state where the power management IC and processor are activated. This dynamic adjustment optimizes both energy efficiency and operational responsiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device according to an embodiment may comprise a touch input unit, a first PMIC, a first switching circuit, and a battery controller. The battery controller may be configured to control the first switching circuit such that power is supplied from the battery to the touch input unit and no power is supplied from the battery to the first PMIC. The battery controller may be configured to, while power is supplied from the battery to the touch input unit and no power is supplied from the battery to the first PMIC, obtain an input through the touch input unit. The battery controller may be configured to control, based on obtaining the input, the first switching circuit such that power is supplied from the battery to the first PMIC.