A human machine interaface and a method of operating the same

Abstract

Disclosed is a human-machine interface consisting of an interactive panel with a 2-D sensing layer that identifies the 2-D coordinates of the interactive input detected by the 2-D sensing layer. The sensing layer has a transparent conductive layer and a piezoelectric material layer. The sensing layer may have an insulation layer, a passivation layer, and capacitive touch sensing layer. The piezoelectric layer may have a lead-based material layer, a lead-free material, an organic material and / or inorganic layer. The interface also includes a first processor operable to generate a localised output in relation to the interactive input detected on the interactive panel, the localised output having the 2-D coordinates corresponding to the interactive input received on the interactive panel, the 2-D coordinates comprising a X-Y position of the interactive input received and / or a dimension of the pressure of the received interactive input.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD This disclosure relates to a human-machine interface, in particular a human-machine interface apparatus using an interactive panel for detecting force signals and touch signals. BACKGROUND Modern transportations are moving towards using digital displays over analogue instrument clusters for displaying contents and information to operator. Digital displays are also used as a form of onboard entertainment for passengers, such as listening to music, watching a movie, or gaming. However, existing display technologies used in motor vehicles are not capable of multiple interactive detection. In addition, existing displays used in consumer products are not suitable for use in motor vehicles, in particular the automotive industry, where an ambient temperature of an operating onboard display apparatus may be as high as 85°C. Other objects, features and characteristics, as well as the methods of operation and the functions of the related elements of the structure, the combination of parts and economics of manufacture will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the non-limiting embodiments of the disclosure, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. SUMMARY A purpose of this disclosure is to ameliorate some of the problem(s) as discussed by providing the subject-matter of the independent claims. Further purposes of this disclosure are set out in the accompanying dependent claims. In an aspect of this disclosure, an interactive panel is provided. The interactive panel may comprise a two-dimensional sensing layer. The two-dimensional sensing layer may be operable to detect at least one two-dimensional coordinates in response to at least one interactive input detected by the two-dimensional sensing layer. The two-dimensional sensing layer may comprise at least one transparent conductive layer and at least one piezoelectric material layer. Advantageously, the two-dimensional sensing layer may provide a means for detecting interaction between human-machine by detecting both force signals and touch signals from a requestor. More advantageously, the two-dimensional sensing layer according to the aforesaid configuration may provide a means for detecting multiple interaction from multiple requestors. In some embodiment, the two-dimensional sensing layer may comprise at least one layer of insulation material. In some embodiment, the two-dimensional sensing layer may comprise at least one layer of passivation material. In some embodiment, the two-dimensional sensing layer may comprise at least one capacitive touch sensing layer. In some embodiment, the at least one capacitive sensing layer may be an in-cell touch sensing layer. In some embodiment, the at least one capacitive sensing layer may be an out-cell touch sensing layer. In some embodiment, the at least one capacitive sensing layer may be a one glass solution (OGS). In some embodiment, the at least one piezoelectric -material layer of the two-dimensional sensing layer may comprise a lead-free piezoelectric material. In some embodiment, the at least one piezoelectric material layer of the two-dimensional sensing layer may comprise a lead-based piezoelectric material. In some embodiment, the piezoelectric material may include an organic material. In some embodiment, the piezoelectric material may include an organic material. In some embodiment, the piezoelectric material may include an organic-inorganic material. In some embodiment, the at least one piezoelectric material layer of the two-dimensional sensing layer may comprise a type of piezoelectric material. In some embodiment, the piezoelectric material may be polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF). In some embodiment, the piezoelectric material may be a copolymer of polyvinylidene difluoride. In some embodiment, the piezoelectric material may be a terpolymer of polyvinylidene difluoride. In some embodiment, the piezoelectric material may be vinylidene fluoride-trifluoro ethylene (PVDF-TrFE). In some embodiment, the piezoelectric material may be poly L-lactic acid (PLLA). In some embodiment, the piezoelectric material may be lead zirconate titanate (PZT). In an aspect of this disclosure, a human-machine interface is provided. The human-machine interface may comprise an interactive panel as defined above, an illumination source for providing light rays such that a content being displayed on the human-machine interface may be viewed, and at least a first processor having a memory. The at least a first processor may include a software algorithm stored thereon. In some embodiment, the software algorithm may be a machine learning algorithm, but not limited thereto. The at least a first processor may be operable to generate at least one localised output in relation to the at least one interactive input detected on the interactive display panel. The at least one localised output may comprise at least one two-dimensional coordinates corresponding to the at least one interactive input received on the interactive panel. The at least one two-dimensional coordinates comprising a X-Y position of the at least one interactive input received, of which the X-Y position of the at least one interactive input may include coordinates of a touch signal received, for example a touch gesture or a swiping gesture received on the interactive input and / or a dimension of pressure of the at least one interactive input received, where the dimension of pressure may be measured as a force signal, for example an amount for force exerted in a dimension of the interactive panel when a requestor touch or swipe the interactive panel. Advantageously, the aforesaid configuration may enable generating one or more localised output in response to the touch signals and / or force signals detected on the interactive display, to identify at least one coordinates of a touch signal and / or a force signal of one or more interaction input from a requestor. In some embodiment, the software algorithm may be operable to execute a gesture classification process in response to the localised output generated. The gesture classification process may be operable to classify the at least one interactive input detected according to a category of interaction. In some embodiment, the category of interaction may be a palm interaction. In some embodiment, the category of interaction may be a glove interaction. In some embodiment, the category of interaction may be an accidental interaction. Consequently, the gesture classification process supports recognition of the types of interaction between machine and human requestor, to enhance future interactions. In most embodiments, the human-machine interface further comprises: one or more bonding layers, each of the one or more bonding layers may comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive including an optical adhesive or a non-optical adhesive. In some embodiment, the one or more bonding layers may be an acrylic. In some embodiment, the one or more bonding layers may be silicone. In some embodiment, the one or more bonding layers may be a polyurethane based optical glue. In some embodiment, the one or more bonding layers may be a polycarbonate-based glue. In some embodiment, the interactive panel may further comprise an interaction layer. In some embodiment, the interaction layer may be made of a material selected from a group consisting of a transparent material, the transparent material having a transmittance of more than 90% visible light. In some embodiment, the interaction layer may be made of a material selected from a group consisting of a translucent material, the translucent material having a transmittance of 5% to 90% visible light. In some embodiment, the interaction layer may be made of a material selected from a group consisting of an opaque material, the opaque material having a transmittance of less than 5% visible light. In some embodiment, the interaction layer may be made of a glass. In some embodiment, the interaction layer may be made of a polymer cover lens. In some embodiment, the interaction layer may be made of a foil. In some embodiment, the interaction layer may be made of a film. In some embodiment, the interaction layer may be made of a plastic panel. In some embodiment, the interaction layer may be made of synthetic material, for example polyurethane (PU) or latex but not limited thereto. In some embodiment, the interaction layer may be made of natural material, for example fibres, wood or leather but not limited thereto. In some embodiment, the illumination source may comprise an active display. In some embodiment, the illumination source may comprise a light emitting diode. In some embodiment, the illumination source may comprise a light bar. In some embodiment, the illumination source may comprise a device or layer utilising projection technology. In some embodiment, the human-machine interface may further comprise at least one actuator. Suitable types of actuators may include piezoelectric actuator, electromagnetic actuator or electrodynamic actuator but not limited thereto. The at least actuator may be operable to transmit a feedback signal through the interaction layer of the interactive panel. The feedback signal transmitted through the interaction layer may correspond to the at least one two-dimensional coordinates generated by the at least a first processor. An example of a suitable actuator may be a haptic actuator operable to provide a haptic feedback signal, although not limited thereto. In some embodiment, the human-machine interface may comprise at least a second processor. The at least a second processor different from the at least a first processor. The at least a first processor may be operable to detect a X-Y position of the at least one interactive input received on the interactive panel, of which the X-Y position of the at least one interactive input may include a touch gesture and / or a swiping gesture received on the interactive panel. The at least a second processor may be operable to detect a force of the at least one interactive input received on the interactive panel. In an aspect of this disclosure, a method of operating a human-machine interface is provided. The method may comprise detecting, by way of an interactive panel, at least one interactive input received on the interactive panel. The method may further comprise generating, by way of at least a first processor having a software algorithm stored thereon, at least one localised output in relation to the at least one interactive input detected on the interactive display panel. The at least one localised output may comprise at least one two-dimensional coordinates corresponding to the at least one interactive input received on the interactive panel the at least one two-dimensional coordinates may comprise a X-Y position of the at least one interactive input received and / or a dimension of pressure of the at least one interactive input received. Advantageously, the aforesaid technique may trigger a software algorithm to process in response to the touch signals and / or force signals received, for data processing to provide other forms of applications which may be applicable to enhance human-machine interaction experience. In some embodiment, in response to the localised output generated, the method may further comprise executing, by way of the machine learning algorithm, a gesture classification process. In some embodiment, the method may further comprise classifying, by way of the gesture classification process, the at least one interactive input detected according to a category of interaction. Advantageously, the aforesaid technique may enable a software algorithm to process the touch signals and / or force signals received for data processing, to provide other forms to applications which may be applicable to enhance human-machine interaction experience. In some embodiment, the method may further comprise detecting, by way of the at least a first processor, an invalid interactive input received on the interactive panel. In response to the invalid interactive input detected, disabling, by way of the at least a first processor, a touch scanning function of the human-machine interface, transmitting, by way of the at least a first processor, the localised output comprising the at least one two-dimensional coordinates to at least a second processor, the at least a second processor different from the at least a first processor and measuring, by way of the at least a second processor, a dimension of pressure of the localised output. Advantageously, this yields a method of responding to a situation where the capacitance received from at least one interactive input may be insufficient to generate a localised output with at least two-dimensional coordinates. In some embodiment, in response to measuring the Z position of the localised output by the at least a second processor, the method may further comprise measuring, by way of the second processor, a X-Y position of the localise output and enabling the touch scanning function of the human-machine interface. In an aspect of this disclosure, a computer program product may be provided. The computer program may comprise instructions to cause the human-machine interface as disclosed above to execute the steps of the method disclosed above. Advantageously, this disclosure yields a computer program for executing a gesture classification process using machine learning in response to at least one interactive input received on an interactive panel of the human-machine interface. In an aspect of this disclosure, a computer-readable medium having stored on the computer program as disclosed herein may be provided. In an aspect of this disclosure, a human-machine interface as disclosed herein may be use in a motor vehicle. The human-machine interface may comprise an interactive panel as disclosed herein, where at least the interactive panel may be mounted to at least a portion of a surface of a cockpit of the motor vehicle. In some embodiment, the interactive panel may be mounted to a central portion of a cockpit of a motor vehicle, the central portion relative to a width (W) of the motor vehicle. Advantageously, the aforesaid embodiment may enable multiple motor vehicle passengers to utilize a single human-machine interface for multiple users, to control vehicle functions such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) control or onboard entertainment functions for rear passengers, but not limited thereto. Other objects, features and characteristics, as well as the methods of operation and the functions of the related elements of the structure, the combination of parts and economics of manufacture will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the non-limiting embodiments of the disclosure, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS The present disclosure will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein: FIG. 1a - b shows an arrangement of an interactive panel in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 2a - b shows an arrangement of an interactive panel in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 3a - b shows an arrangement of an interactive panel in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 4a - b shows an arrangement of an interactive panel in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 5a shows a schematic diagram of a human-machine interface in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 5b shows a timing chart of controlling a human-machine interface in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 6 shows a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a human-machine interface in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 7 shows a motor vehicle having a human-machine interface in accordance with an embodiment. It should be understood that like reference numerals identify corresponding or similar elements throughout the several drawings. It should be understood that although a particular component arrangement is disclosed and illustrated in these exemplary embodiments, other arrangements could also benefit from the teachings of this disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the disclosure or the application and uses of the disclosure. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background of the disclosure or the following detailed description. It is the intent of this disclosure to present a human-machine interface with an interactive panel operable to receive and detect two-dimensional coordinates from one or more requestors. Hereinafter, the term “processor” may comprise one or more computer-readable storage media or memory modules, which may comprise transitory and non-transitory memory. The computer-readable storage media may encompass any electronic component capable of storing electronic information. The computer-readable storage media or memory may include transitory computer-readable media such as random-access memory (RAM) or cache memory. The computer-readable storage media or memory may include non-transitory computer-readable media such as read-only memory (ROM), non-volatile random-access memory (NVRAM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM), flash memory, magnetic or optical data storage, registers, etc. The memory is in electronic communication with a processor as disclosed herein and / or other processors of the processor. Computer-readable instructions, such as an operating system, middleware, firmware, or other software framework, may reside in the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. Computer-readable instructions may be implemented as a program or a code that can be read by the processor. Exemplary processor(s) of the processor include a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a controller, a microcontroller, a state machine, programmable gate arrays, systems-on-chip (SoC), programmable SoCs, or other suitable devices. The term "processor" may include a combination of processing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration suitable for the disclosed processor. The term “first”, “second”, “third” and the like used in the context of this disclosure may refer to modification of different elements in accordance with various exemplary embodiments, but not limited thereto. The expressions may be used to distinguish one element from another element, regardless of sequence of importance. By way of an example, “a first processor” and “a second processor” may indicate different processor regardless of order or importance. On a similar note, a first processor may be referred to as the second processor and vice versa without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The term “transparent conductive layer” refers to thin layer or thin films of optically transparent and electrically conductive material. The term “transparent material” refers to a layer of material having transparent properties, such that background of the layer of material can be seen through. This is because a transparent layer of material transmits incident light rays onto a back surface of the transparent display apparatus directly to a viewer’s eye due to light transmittance. Since the light incident onto the back surface is transmitted directly to the user's eye, the user can see an object beyond the back surface, thus achieving see-through effect. Henceforth, a “transparent material” may be a material possessing a transmittance rate of more than 90% visible light. A “translucent” material may be a material possessing a transmittance rate of 5% to 90% of visible light. An “opaque” material may be a material possessing a transmittance rate of less than 5% of visible light. FIG. 1a - b shows a cross-sectional view of an interactive panel 100 in accordance with an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1a which shows a cross-section view of an interactive panel 110a, it can be observed the interactive panel 100 comprises an interaction layer 102 and a two-dimensional (2D) sensing layer 104. The interaction layer 102 operable to receive and detect at least one interactive input 106. The 2D sensing layer 104 may include at least one transparent conductive layer 108 and at least one piezoelectric material layer 110, although not limited thereto. For clarity and brevity, the figures shown in the accompanying drawings show a first transparent conductive layer 108, a second layer 108’, the first transparent conductive layer 108 having a same characteristics and properties as the second transparent conductive layer 108’ and a piezoelectric material layer 110. To assemble a human-machine interface from the interactive panel, the human-machine interface comprises an interaction layer 102 operable to detect at least one interactive input, a 2D sensing layer 104 to detect at least one 2D coordinates comprising X-Y position in relation to a touch signal detected from the at least one interactive input received on the interaction layer 102 and a dimension of pressure in relation to a force signal detected from the at least one interactive input received on the interaction layer 102. An illumination layer 122 may be coupled to the interactive panel 100 for providing light rays through the interaction layer 102. Embodiment 1a In an embodiment as shown in FIG. 1a, the 2D sensing layer 104 includes a first transparent conductive layer 108 bonded to at least a portion of a piezoelectric material layer 110 displaced adjacent to the first transparent conductive layer 108, followed by a second transparent conductive layer 108’. The bonding of the first transparent conductive layer 108 to the piezoelectric material layer 110 may be done by using a bonding layer 128, with the interaction layer 102 displaced on aside of the first transparent conductive 108, such that a side of the interaction layer 102 may be operable to receive at least one interactive input. Characteristics of bonding layer 128 shall be discussed in further details below. To assemble a human-machine interface 100, an illumination layer 122 may be coupled or bonded to the interactive panel 100, such that the 2D sensing layer 104 is displaced between the interaction layer 102 and the illumination layer 122. In some embodiment, the human-machine interface 100 may further include an insulation layer 124 displaced adjacent to the second transparent conductive layer 108 of the 2D sensing layer 104, of which at least a portion of the insulation layer 124 may be bonded to the second transparent conductive 108’ using the bonding layer 128. In some embodiment, the human-machine interface 100 use a passivation layer 126 instead of the insulation layer 124. Embodiment 1b In an embodiment as shown in FIG. 1b, the 2D sensing layer 104 includes the first transparent conductive layer 108, the piezoelectric material layer 110 and the second transparent conductive layer 108’. The insulation layer 124 or the passivation layer 126 may be coupled to at least a portion of the second transparent conductive layer 108’. To assemble a human-machine interface 100, the illumination layer 122 may be coupled to at least a portion of the insulation layer 124 or the passivation layer 126 using a first bonding layer 128. The interactive panel 102 may be displaced adjacent to the 2D sensing layer 104, with at least a portion of the first transparent conductive 108 coupled to at least a portion of the interaction layer 102 using a second bonding layer 128’, of which the second bonding layer 128’ is displaced between the at least a portion of the interaction layer 102 and the at least a portion of the first transparent conductive 108. Embodiment 2a In an embodiment as shown in FIG. 2a, the 2D sensing layer 104 includes the first transparent conductive layer 108, the piezoelectric material layer 110 and the second transparent conductive layer 108’. To assemble a human-machine interface 100, the illumination layer 122 may be coupled to at least a portion of the insulation layer 124 or the passivation layer 126 using a second bonding layer 128’. The interactive panel 102 may be displaced adjacent to the at least one capacitive touch sensing layer 130, as shown on FIG. 2a. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the illumination layer 122 is coupled to the insulation layer 124 or the passivation layer 126, with the first bonding layer 128 coupled to the at least one capacitive touch sensing layer 130. The insulation layer 124 or the passivation layer 126 may be coupled to at least a portion of the second transparent conductive layer 108’. At least a portion of the piezoelectric material layer 110 is coupled to a at least one capacitive touch sensing layer 130 by way of a first bonding layer 128. Embodiment 2b In an embodiment as shown in FIG. 2b, the 2D sensing layer 104 includes the first transparent conductive layer 108 and the piezoelectric layer 110. At least a portion of the piezoelectric material layer 110 is coupled to at least a first portion of the at least one capacitive touch sensing layer 130. To assemble a human-machine interface 100, at least a second portion of the at least one capacitive touch sensing layer 130 is coupled to at least a portion of the interaction layer 102. Further thereto, at least a portion of the first transparent conductive layer 108 is coupled to the insulation layer 124 or the passivation layer 126, and at least a portion of the illumination layer 122 may be coupled to at least a portion of the insulation layer 124 or the passivation layer 126 using a second bonding layer 128’. The interactive panel 102 may be displaced adjacent to the at least one capacitive touch sensing layer 130, as shown on FIG. 2b, with a third bonding layer 128”. Embodiment 3a In an embodiment as shown in FIG. 3a, the 2D sensing layer 104 includes the first transparent conductive layer 108, the piezoelectric material layer 110 and the second transparent conductive layer 108’. To assemble a human-machine interface, the illumination layer 122 may be coupled to at least a portion of the insulation layer 124 or the passivation layer 126 using a first bonding layer 128. The interactive panel 102 may be displaced adjacent to the at least one capacitive touch sensing layer 130. At least a portion of the at least one capacitive touch sensing touch layer 130 is coupled to at least a portion of the transparent conductive 108 with a second bonding layer 128’. Embodiment 3b In an embodiment as shown in FIG. 3b, the 2D sensing layer 104 includes the first transparent conductive layer 108, the piezoelectric material layer 110 and the second transparent conductive layer 108’. At least a portion of the first ITO layer 108 is coupled to at least a first portion of the at least one capacitive touch sensing layer 130. At least a second portion of the at least one capacitive touch sensing layer 130 is coupled to the at least a portion of the interaction layer 102, with a first bonding layer 128 displaced between the capacitive touch sensing layer 130 and the interaction layer 102. To assemble a human-machine interface, at least a second portion of the out cell 130 is coupled to at least a portion of the first transparent conductive 108 of the 2D sensing layer 104 with a second bonding layer 128’. The illumination layer 122 the illumination layer 122 may be coupled to at least a portion of the insulation layer 124 or the passivation layer 126 using the third bonding layer 128”. Embodiment 4a In an embodiment as shown in FIG. 4a, at least a portion of the 2D sensing layer 104 is coupled to at least a portion of the illumination layer 122 with a first bonding layer 128 therebetween. To assemble a human-machine interface, at least a portion of the at least one capacitive touch sensing layer 130 is coupled to the interaction layer 102. As shown in FIG. 4b, the 2D sensing layer 104 includes the first transparent conductive layer 108, the piezoelectric material layer 110 and the second transparent conductive layer 108’. To assemble a human-machine interface, at least a portion of the first transparent conductive 108 of the 2D sensing layer 104 is coupled to at least a first portion of the illumination layer 108 with a first bonding layer 128 therebetween. At least a second portion of the illumination layer 122 is coupled to at least a first portion of the at least one capacitive touch sensing layer 130. The interaction layer 102 is coupled to at least a first portion of the at least one capacitive touch sensing layer 130. In some embodiments, the illumination layer 122 may be integrated with the touch sensing layer 104 using in-cell or on-cell touch technology. Illumination layer 122 In some embodiments, the illumination layer 122 may be a source for providing light rays. In some embodiments, the illumination layer 122 may be an active display. Suitable types of active display may include liquid crystal display (LCD), organic light emitting diode (OLED), micro light emitting diode (pLED), but not limited thereto. Other suitable types of illumination layer 122 may include light emitting diode (LED), a light bar, a device or layer utilising projection technology, but not limited thereto. Piezoelectric Material Layer 110 In some embodiments discussed above, the piezoelectric material layer 110 of the 2D sensing layer 104 may be made of a lead-free piezoelectric material. In some embodiments, the piezoelectric material layer 110 may include a lead-based piezoelectric material. The piezoelectric material may include an organic material, an inorganic material, or an organic-inorganic material. Suitable types of the at least one piezoelectric material layer of the two-dimensional sensing layer may include polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), PVDF copolymers or PVDF terpolymers, for example vinylidene fluoride-trifluoro ethylene (PVDF-TrFE), poly L-lactic acid (PLLA), lead zirconate titanate (PZT), but not limited thereto. Bonding layer In all of the embodiments discussed above, one or more bonding layers may be a pressure sensitive adhesive. The pressure sensitive adhesive may be an optical adhesive or a non-optical adhesive. In some embodiment, pressure sensitive adhesive may include liquid optically clear adhesive (LOCA). In some embodiment, pressure sensitive adhesive may include optically clear adhesive (OCA). Suitable types of bonding layers may include acrylic, silicone, polyurethane based optical glue, polycarbonate-based glue, but not limited thereto. Interaction layer 102 In some embodiment, the interaction layer 102 allow light ray transmittance in visible spectrum, in particular 400nm to 700nm wavelength. In some embodiment, the interaction layer 102 may allow light ray transmittance in infrared (IR) spectrum, in the range of 700nm to 1000nm. In some embodiment, the interaction layer 102 may be a transparent material, with a transmittance of more than 90% visible light. In some embodiment, the interaction layer 102 may be a translucent material with a transmittance of 5% to 90% visible light. In some embodiment, the interaction layer 102 may be an opaque material with a transmittance of less than 5% of visible light. Suitable types of interaction layer 102 may include a glass; a polymer cover lens; a foil; a film; a plastic panel; a synthetic material; a natural material. Suitable types of synthetic material may include polyurethane (Pll) or latex but not limited thereto. Examples of suitable types of natural material may include the interaction layer may be made of natural material, for example fibres, wood or leather but not limited thereto. The foil or film may be optically bonded overlay. The plastic panel may be painted or coated. Processor 132 Further thereto, the human-machine interface has at least a first processor 132 including a memory, as shown in FIG 5 of schematic diagram 500. The at least a first processor 132 may include a software algorithm stored in the memory. The at least a first processor 132 generates at least one localised output in relation to the at least one interactive input detected on the interactive panel 102. The at least one localised output contains information of at least one two-dimensional coordinates corresponding to the at least one interactive input received on the interactive panel, the at least one two-dimensional coordinates include a X-Y position of the at least one interactive input detected by the 2D sensing layer 104 through the interaction layer 102, of which the X-Y position relates to a touch signal. In addition, the at least one two-dimensional coordinates include a dimension of pressure of the at least one interactive input received input detected by the 2D sensing layer 104 through the interaction layer 102, of which the dimension of pressure relates to a force signal. In some embodiment applicable for automotive applications, the at least a first processor 132 may include a fail-safe mechanism on a system level, the fail-safe mechanism operable to detecta fault within a fault tolerant time interval. In response to the detection of fault within the fault tolerant time interval, the at least a first processor 132 may terminate the running application, such that the system continues to operate in a safe mode. In some embodiment, the at least a first processor 132 may provide a diagnosis with sufficient coverage on safety-related functionality to meet Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL) requirement, including but not limited to, diagnostic protocol in communication, data / code flash error correction code (ECC) detection / correction, processor clock monitoring, analogue / digital input acquisition chain functional check. In some embodiment, the at least a first processor 132 may be configured to provide analogue to digital converter (ADC) channel with sufficient resolution. By way of an example, a suitable configuration may be 12-bit with a sampling frequency of 200MHz to achieve a fast and accurate analogue signal measurement, for example 5ms acquisition cycle, although not limited thereto. The at least a first processor 132 may provide ADC channel with configurable range detection so as to trigger the at least a first processor 132 to execute immediate acquisition of input data. The at least a first processor 132 may provide configurable touch scanning pattern to mitigate the electromagnetic interference (EMI). In some embodiment, the at least a first processor 132 may be configured for executing scanning intervals. In some embodiment, the at least a first processor 132 may be configured for executing zero DC-level scanning, alternate touch scanning and analogue acquiring. In response to the localised output generated, the software algorithm is operable to execute a gesture classification process. Once executed, the gesture classification process classifies the at least one interactive input detected according to a category of interaction. The category of interaction may include identifying a palm detection, where palm of a requestor is used as means to interact with the interaction layer 102 or a glove detection, where glove of a requestor is used as means to interact with the interaction layer 102. Determination of glove detection may be differentiated from palm detection according to a dimension of pressure or force signal detected or received by the interaction layer 102. In some embodiments, category of interaction includes determining the interactive input received is stress-induced or accidental. The classification of types of categories of interaction using machine learning process may help with enhancing experience of requestor when using the human-machine interaction as disclosed herein. In some embodiment, the human-machine interface includes at least a second processor 132’. The at least a second processor 132’ may possess the same characteristics as the at least a first processor 132. In some embodiment, the at least a second processor 132’ may be an analogue-digital converter. Actuator Integration In some embodiment, at least one actuator (not shown) may be integrated with the human-machine interface 100 to transmit a feedback signal through the interaction layer 102 of the human-machine interface. Preferably, the feedback signal transmit through the interaction layer corresponds to the at least one two-dimensional coordinates generated by the at least a first processor 132. A suitable type of actuator may be a haptic actuator. In some embodiment, the haptic actuator may be mechanically connected to the interaction layer 102 alone. In some embodiment, the actuator may be mechanically connected to the interaction layer 102 alone and the illumination layer 122. In some embodiment, the actuator may be mechanically connected to the interaction layer 102 and casing or housing of the human-machine interface 100. In some embodiment, the actuator may be mechanically connected to the illumination layer 122. In some embodiment, the actuator may be mechanically connected to the illumination layer 122 and a casing or housing of the human-machine interface 100. The combination of touch signal and force signal 2D sensing layer 104 can generate a plurality of touch and / or signals corresponding to user’s input interacting simultaneously on different locations of the interaction layer. These signals can be used to trigger the generation of a plurality of haptic driving signals by the haptic controller. The different haptic driving signals can be used to drive independently a plurality of haptic actuators. Schematic 500 FIG. 5a shows a schematic diagram 500 of a human-machine interface in accordance with an embodiment. As shown on FIG. 5a, the human-machine interface 100 comprises at least a second 132’ processor, the at least a second processor 132’ different from the at least a first processor 132, in no sequence of importance. The at least a first processor 132 may be operable to detect a X-Y position of the at least one interactive input received on the interactive panel and the at least a second processor 132’ may be operable to detect a dimension of pressure of the at least one interactive input received on the interactive panel. More in particular, the human-machine interface includes at least a third processor 132”, the at least a third processor 132” may be operable to disable a touch scanning function of the human-machine interface and set the dimension of pressure coordinate measurement, i.e. the force signal readout or measurement to a high gain setting and set a timer to readout or measure the force signal as illustrated in FIG. 5b of an exemplary timing chart, in response to an invalid interactive input detected by the interactive panel 100. In response to the force signal readout or measurement of dimension of pressure determined, the X-Y position is determined. The disabled touch function may in turn be enabled again once the invalid interactive input is determined. In some embodiment, the at least a second processor 132’ and the at least a third processor 132” are integrated as a single processor. Consequently, the enabling of touch function may be executable by the at least a second processor 132’. Method 600 FIG. 6 shows a flowchart illustrating a method 600 of operating a human-machine interface in accordance with an embodiment. In a step 602 as shown in FIG 6, the method 600 comprises detecting at least one interactive input received on the interactive panel. In a next step 604, a first processor having a software algorithm stored thereon generates at least one localised output in relation to the at least one interactive input detected on the interactive panel. The at least one localised output may contain information comprising at least one two-dimensional coordinates corresponding to the at least one interactive input received on the interactive panel. The at least one two-dimensional coordinates comprising a X-Y position of the at least one interactive input received and / or a dimension of pressure of the at least one interactive input received. In response to the localised output generated in step 604, the at least a first processor executes in a next step 606, the software algorithm for a gesture classification process. At step 608, the gesture classification process commences classifying the at least one interactive input detected according to a category of interaction. In the event an invalid interactive input is detected on the interactive panel, at step 610, the at least a first processor responds to the invalid interactive input by disabling at step 612, a touch scanning function of the human-machine interface and transmit at a next step 614, the localised output comprising the at least one two-dimensional coordinates to at least a second processor, the at least a second processor different from the first. At step 616, the at least a second processor readout or measures a Z position of the localised output. In a next step 618, the at least a second processor measures X-Y position of the localise output and enable the touch scanning function of the human-machine interface at step 620. An example of an invalid interactive input may be a touch signal and / or a force signal which cannot be properly detected by the interactive panel, or an accidental interactive input from a requestor. An example of an accidental interactive input from the requestor may be a part of a sleeve of the requestor or a part of an accessory worn on a wrist of the requestor. In some embodiment, the detection of multiple interactive input at a same time, with some interactive input received at a lower capacitance over some other interactive input received, thus the interactive input received at a lower capacitance cannot be determined or sensed. Human-Machine Interface for Motor Vehicle 700 FIG. 7 shows a motor vehicle 700 having a human-machine interface in accordance with an embodiment. In some embodiment, the human-machine interface may be mounted on a portion of a surface of a cockpit of a motor vehicle. In some embodiment, the human-machine interface may be mounted to a central portion of a cockpit of a motor vehicle 700, the central portion relative to a width, W, of the motor vehicle 700. The foregoing description shall be interpreted as illustrative and not be limited thereto. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that certain modifications may come within the scope of this disclosure. Although the different non-limiting embodiments are illustrated as having specific components or steps, the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to those combinations. Some of the components or features from any of the non-limiting embodiments may be used in combination with features or components from any of the other non-limiting embodiments. For these reasons, the appended claims should be studied to determine the true scope and content of this disclosure. List of Reference Signs 100 Human machine interface 102, 102’ Interaction layer 104 2D sensing layer 106 At least one interactive input 108, 108’, 108” A first transparent conductive, a second transparent conductive 110 A piezoelectric material layer 100 Human-machine interface (HMI) 122 Illumination layer 124 Insulation layer 126 Passivation layer 128, 128’, 128” Bonding layer 130 capacitive touch sensing layer 132, 132’ At least a first processor, at least a second processor 500 Schematic 502 Interactive input 600 Method 602 detecting interactive input 604 Generating at least one localised output 606 Executing a gesture classification process 608 Classifying the at least one interactive input according to a category of interaction 610 Detecting an invalid interactive input 612 Disabling a touch scanning function of the HMI 614 Transmitting the localised output to at least a second processor 616 Measuring a dimension of pressure of the localised output 618 Measuring a X-Y position of the localised output 620 Enabling the touch scanning function 700 Motor vehicle 702 Passenger cabin 704 Cockpit W Width of motor vehicle 706,706’ requestor

Claims

1. An interactive panel comprising:a two-dimensional sensing layer (104) operable to identify at least one two-dimensional coordinates in response to at least one interactive input detected by the two-dimensional sensing layer (104);characterised in thatthe two-dimensional sensing layer (104) comprises:• at least one transparent conductive layer (108, 108’, 108”); and• at least one piezoelectric material layer (110).

2. The interactive panel according to claim 1, characterised in thatthe two-dimensional sensing layer (104) further comprises:• at least one layer of insulation material (124);• at least one layer of passivation material (126),or combination thereof.

3. The interactive panel according to claims 1-2, characterised in thatthe two-dimensional sensing layer (104) further comprises:• at least one capacitive touch sensing layer (130).

4. The interactive panel according to claims 1-3, characterised in thatthe at least one piezoelectric material layer (110) of the two-dimensional sensing layer (104) comprises a piezoelectric material, the piezoelectric material comprisesa lead-based material;a lead-free material, or combination thereof.

5. The interactive panel according to claims 1-4, characterised in thatthe piezoelectric material includes:an organic material;an inorganic material;oran organic-inorganic material.

6. The interactive panel according to claims 1-5, characterised in thatthe at least one piezoelectric material layer (110) of the two-dimensional sensing layer (104) comprises a piezoelectric material selected from a group consisting of:• polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF);• copolymers of polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF);• terpolymers of polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF);• vinylidene fluoride-trifluoro ethylene (PVDF-TrFE);• poly L-lactic acid (PLLA)• lead zirconate titanate (PZT)and combination thereof.

7. A human-machine interface (100) comprising:an interactive panel as defined in claims 1-6;an interaction layer operable to receive and detect at least one interactive input (502);an illumination source;andat least a first processor (132) including a memory, the at least a first processor (132) having a software algorithm stored thereon,characterised in thatthe at least a first processor (132) operable to generate at least one localised output in relation to the at least one interactive input detected on the interactive panel, the at least one localised output comprises:at least one two-dimensional coordinates corresponding to the at least one interactive input received on the interactive panel, the at least one two-dimensional coordinates comprising:• a X-Y position of the at least one interactive input (502) received;• a dimension of pressure of the at least one interactive input received;or combination thereof.

8. The human-machine interface (100) according to claim 7, characterised in thatin response to the localised output generated, the software algorithm is operable to execute a gesture classification process.

9. The human-machine interface (100) according to claim 8, characterised in thatthe gesture classification process is operable to classify the at least one interactive input (502) detected according to a category of interaction.

10. The human-machine interface (100) according to claim 9, characterised in that the category of interaction is selected from a group consisting of:• palm interaction;• glove interaction;• stress-induced interaction• accidental interaction;and combination thereof.11.The human-machine interface (100) of claim 10, characterised in that the human-machine interface (100) further comprises:one or more bonding layers, each of the one or more bonding layers (128, 128’, 128”) comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive including:an optical adhesive; or a non-optical adhesive:12.The human-machine interface (100) according to claim 11, characterised in thatthe one or more bonding layers (128, 128’, 128”) is selected from a group consisting of:• an acrylic;• a silicone;• a polyurethane based optical glue;• a polycarbonate-based glue, and combination thereof.

13. The human-machine interface (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the interactive panel further comprises an interaction layer, the interaction layer (1032, 102’) is made of a material selected from a group consisting of:• a transparent material, the transparent material having a transmittance of more than 90% visible light;• a translucent material, the translucent material having a transmittance of 5% to 90% visible light; and• an opaque material, the opaque material having a transmittance of less than 5% visible light.

14. The human-machine interface (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the interactive panel further comprises an interaction layer, the interaction layer is made of a material selected from a group consisting of:a glass; a polymer cover lens; a foil; a film; a plastic panel; leather; a synthetic material; a natural material,and combination thereof.

15. The human-machine interface according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the illumination source comprises an active display.16.The human-machine interface according to claim 15, characterised in that the illumination source comprises:• a light emitting diode;• a light bar• a device or layer utilising projection technologyor combination thereof.

17. The human-machine interface (100) according to any one of the preceding claims; characterised in thatthe human-machine interface (100) further comprises at least one actuator, the at least actuator operable to transmit a feedback signal through the interaction layer (102) of the human-machine interface (100), the feedback signal transmitted through the interaction layer corresponds to the at least one two-dimensional coordinates generated by the at least a first processor.

18. The human-machine interface (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in thatthe human-machine interface (100) comprises at least a second processor (132’), the at least a second processor (132’) different from the at least a first processor (132),• the at least a first processor (132) is operable to detect a X-Y position of the at least one interactive input (502) received on the interactive panel;and• the at least a second processor (132’) is operable to detect a dimension of pressure of the at least one interactive input (502) received on the interactive panel.

19. A method (600) of operating a human-machine interface, the method comprising:detecting (602), by way of an interactive panel, at least one interactive input received on the interactive panel;generating (604), by way of at least a first processor having a software algorithm stored thereon, at least one localised output in relation to the at least one interactive input detected on the interactive panel,characterised by thatthe at least one localised output comprising:at least one two-dimensional coordinates corresponding to the at least one interactive input received on the interactive panel, the at least one two-dimensional coordinates comprising:• a X-Y position of the at least one interactive input received;• a dimension of pressure of the at least one interactive input received;or combination thereof.

20. The method (600) according to claim 19, characterised by that in response to the localised output generated,executing (606), by way of the machine learning algorithm, a gesture classification process.21.The method (600) according to claims 19 - 20, characterised by that the method further comprises:classifying (608), by way of the gesture classification process, the at least one interactive input detected according to a category of interaction.22.The method (600) according to claims 19-21, characterised by that the method (600) further comprises:detecting (610), by way of the at least a first processor (132), an invalid interactive input received on the interactive panel;andin response to the invalid interactive input detected,। disabling (612), by way of the at least a first processor (132), a touch scanning function of the human-machine interface;transmitting (614), by way of the at least a first processor, the localised output comprising the at least one two-dimensional coordinates to at least a second processor (132’), the at least a second processor (132’) different from the at least a first processor (132);andmeasuring (616), by way of the at least a second processor, a Z position of the localised output.23.The method (600) according to claims 19-22, characterised in thatin response to measuring the Z position of the localised output by the at least a second processor (132’),measuring (618), by way of the at least a second processor (132’), a X-Y position of the localise output; andenabling (620) the touch scanning function of the human-machine interface (100).

24. A processor program product comprising instructions stored thereon to cause the apparatus as disclosed in claims 6 -18 to execute the steps of claims 19-23.

25. A computer readable- medium having stored on the processor program product of claim 24.

26. A human-machine interface (100) as defined in accordance with any one of claims 6 - 18 for use in a motor vehicle (700), characterised in that a is mounted to at least a portion of a surface of a cockpit (704) of a motor vehicle (700).

27. The human-machine interface (100) for use in a motor vehicle (700) according to claim 26, characterised in that the interactive panel is mounted to a central portion of a cockpit (704) of a motor vehicle (700), the central portion relative to a width (W) of the motor vehicle (700).31

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