Capacitive Input Device Transmitter Path Error Diagnosis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input devices with capacitive sensing technologies face challenges in diagnosing transmitter path errors, which can lead to inaccurate user input detection and device malfunction, due to the lack of effective methods for identifying discontinuities and shorts in transmitter paths.
Innovation Solution
A processing system with transmitter circuitry, an internal diagnostic mechanism featuring a selectable leakage path, and a determination module that determines the presence of discontinuities or shorts by measuring the discharge rate of the transmitter path, allowing for the identification of errors within the transmitter paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If capacitive sensing technology is used in input devices, then sensing capability is improved, but difficulty in detecting and measuring transmitter path errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing an internal diagnostic mechanism that proactively tests transmitter paths before they are used for normal capacitive sensing operations. The system performs preliminary continuity and short-circuit tests using test signal generators and switches that activate during manufacturing or initialization, allowing errors to be detected before they affect actual sensing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses intermediary elements including dedicated test switches, signal generators, and diagnostic circuitry that mediate between the transmitter paths and the testing system. These intermediaries allow error detection without requiring external testing equipment or disrupting normal sensing operations, as the diagnostic mechanism acts as an intermediary layer for testing.
2Measurement precision
If internal diagnostic mechanisms are added to detect transmitter path errors, then reliability of error detection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the diagnostic functions into the existing transmitter circuitry by integrating test switches, signal generators, and measurement circuits within the same device structure. Rather than adding separate external testing equipment, the system combines manufacturing tests and operational diagnostics into unified internal mechanisms that share circuit elements with the normal sensing operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universal diagnostic mechanisms that can detect multiple types of errors (continuity failures, short circuits, impedance variations) using a single integrated system. The test switches and signal generators serve multiple functions: they can test different transmitter paths, detect various error types, and operate during both manufacturing and normal usage, reducing overall device complexity through multi-functionality.
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 solution enables accurate diagnosis of transmitter path errors, preventing defective devices from entering production and facilitating repair or replacement of specific components, thereby improving the reliability and usability of capacitive sensing input devices.
Implementation Method 1
Each transmitter path of the plurality of transmitter paths is configured for capacitive sensing
Implementation Method 2
The discharge rate is acquired during a second time period via the selectable leakage path of the first internal diagnostic mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A processing system configured for capacitive sensing comprises transmitter circuitry, a first internal diagnostic mechanism, and a determination module. The transmitter circuitry is coupled with a first transmitter path of a plurality of transmitter paths and configured to transmit a first transmitter signal with the first transmitter path, wherein each transmitter path of the plurality of transmitter paths is configured for capacitive sensing. The first internal diagnostic mechanism is coupled to a second transmitter path of the plurality of transmitter paths. The first internal diagnostic mechanism is configured to acquire a first resulting signal while the transmitter circuitry transmits the first transmitter signal with the first transmitter path, wherein the first internal diagnostic mechanism comprises a selectable leakage path coupled to the transmitter circuitry. The determination module is further configured to determine that the first transmitter path is ohmically coupled to the second transmitter path of the plurality of transmitter paths based upon the first resulting signal.