Capacitive Sensor-based Device

Technology: Capacitive sensor-based Device;

Industry: Clean Energy Sector, Environmental Engineering, Electronic System & Design Manufacturing (ESDM), Application: Smart Taps;

Market: The global capacitive sensor market is projected to reach at a CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast period (2024-32).

The problem statement discussed in the present invention is how to implement a capacitive sensor-based device which can easily integrated into appliances without any shortcomings of prior sensor based electronic appliances.
Hence, the subject matter provides the solution efficiently by addressing the issues.

Further, a shield electrode is positioned above the sensing electrode for preventing detection of the hand when brought above the sensing electrode.
The sensing electrode and the shield electrode are maintained at the same excitation potential through a power source.
The change in the capacitance of the sensing electrode corresponds to a leakage current flowing from the excitation electrode to the ground through the hand of the user.
The capacitive sensor-based device further comprises a wireless module for connecting the processing unit with an electronically controlled valve for controlling the operation of the capacitive sensor-based device.

Technical & Industrial Perspective:

Provides a cost-effective capacitive sensor that can be easily integrated into an existing/new electronic or non-electronic appliance during manufacturing & controls flowrate of discharge of air or liquid from the electronic appliance, upon sensing the hand of the user.

Functionality of the Claimed Device:

The capacitive sensor is fitted onto the tip of the tap, the sensor is used to sense the presence of the user’s hand only by the underneath tap.
Fig. 4a shows change in capacitance recorded from the capacitive sensor when the person was standing on the mat, & Fig. 4b illustrates change in capacitance recorded from the capacitive sensor when the person was touched by another person;
Fabrication of the sensor is easy and less expensive.
The proposed device may be fitted to a liquid dispensing tap, a soap dispenser, a sanitizer dispenser, an oil dispenser, and a hand air dryer.

Prof. Boby George

Department of Electrical Engineering

TRL-4

Technology validated in Laboratory

Technology Transfer