3D Input Device Z-Axis Detection for Enhanced Interaction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current computer input devices primarily operate in two dimensions, limiting user input to x- and y-dimensions, and lack effective mechanisms for detecting and interpreting movement in the z-dimension, which restricts their functionality and versatility, especially in handheld computing devices.
Innovation Solution
The development of computer input devices that incorporate detectors and controllers to detect relative movement in x-, y-, and z-dimensions, enabling user input across multiple strata or planes, allowing for enhanced interaction with computing devices through input members like mice and styluses that can move in three dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If computer input devices operate in two dimensions (x- and y-dimensions), then the device structure remains simple and easy to manufacture, but the functionality and versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds z-dimensional detection capability to traditional 2D input devices by incorporating additional detectors (such as acoustic emission detectors or capacitive sensors) that can sense movement perpendicular to the touch screen surface. This transforms the device from 2D to 3D operational capability, enabling new interaction modes like pressure sensitivity, hovering detection, and multi-layer input without fundamentally redesigning the entire device architecture
2Adaptability or versatility
If detectors are added to detect z-dimensional movement, then three-dimensional input capability is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the touch screen serve multiple functions: it acts as both the display interface and the detection surface for z-dimensional input. The same capacitive sensing technology used for touch detection is extended to detect proximity and pressure, eliminating the need for separate dedicated z-detection hardware and reducing overall device complexity despite adding functional capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple detection functions (x-y position detection, z-dimensional position detection, pressure detection) into a unified detector system that processes all inputs through a single controller. This integration approach reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining full 3D input capability
Data Source
AI summary
Computer input devices include a detector adapted to detect relative movement of an input member in x-, y-, and z-dimensions relative to a base point in a base plane, and a controller adapted to send a signal to an associated computing device based at least in part on the relative movement of the input member. Associated computing devices, software, and methods are also disclosed.