US 7,679,996 B2 · Methods and device for ultrasonic range sensing

Abstract

A system and method for sensing proximity of an object includes a signal generator, which generates a plurality of signals. A transducer is in communication with the signal generator to receive the plurality of signals from the signal generator. The transducer is capable of transforming a plurality of signals from the signal generator into a plurality of ultrasonic waves. The plurality of ultrasonic waves includes a first ultrasonic wave and a second ultrasonic wave, wherein the first ultrasonic wave and the second ultrasonic wave are formed out of phase. The plurality of ultrasonic waves are directed toward and reflected by the object. The transducer receives the plurality of ultrasonic waves reflected by the object, which become a plurality of received ultrasonic waves. An analog to digital converter is in communication with the transducer. The received plurality of ultrasonic waves reflected by the object is communicated to the analog to digital converter by the transducer.

Claims20

Dependent claims

A system for sensing proximity of an object, the system comprising:

a signal generator;
a plurality of signals generated by the signal generator;
a transducer in communication with the signal generator to receive the plurality of signals from the signal generator, wherein the transducer is capable of transforming the plurality of signals from the signal generator into a plurality of ultrasonic waves;
the plurality of ultrasonic waves includes a first ultrasonic wave and a second ultrasonic wave, wherein the first ultrasonic wave and the second ultrasonic wave are formed out of phase;
the plurality of ultrasonic waves are at least partially directed toward and reflected by the object;
the transducer receiving the plurality of ultrasonic waves reflected by the object;
an analog to digital converter in communication with the transducer, wherein the received plurality of ultrasonic waves reflected by the object are communicated to the analog to digital converter by the transducer;
and
a detector that measures a deviation between a detector ring down pattern and a base ring down pattern.

6 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Methods and device for ultrasonic range sensing

Life of this patent

Methods and device for ultrasonic range sensing

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims20