High-resolution ultrasonic gesture tracking systems for future portable devices

In the present paper we explore transducer housing designs for high-resolution ultrasonic gesture tracking systems (UGTS) in future portable devices. We show characterization results of two design concepts based on the use of diffractive properties of ultrasound in order to maximize the sensing volume useful for touchless interaction. The designs are described in detail, a validation prototype was constructed and evaluated both using simulations and measurements. In doing so, we develop some simple yet relevant numerica models for the diffractive slits. The proposed design ideas have the potential to be implemented in future UGTS while maintaining sufficiently low friction in the industrial design process, sufficiently low cost and high performance in the user experience.