Acoustic Touch Object Type Detection via Waveform Signatures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing touch input devices struggle to reliably and inexpensively detect the type of object providing touch input, such as distinguishing between a human finger and a stylus, which limits their ability to offer differentiated functionality based on the input type.
Innovation Solution
A system that captures and processes acoustic signals from touch inputs, comparing them to predetermined signatures to identify the type of object contacting the touch input surface, using sensors and transducers to detect disturbances and filter noise, and utilizing a database of object waveform signatures to determine the object type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If acoustic signal processing with waveform signature comparison is implemented to detect object type, then measurement precision of object type detection is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional sensors and signal processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The acoustic signal processing system is integrated into the existing touchscreen device infrastructure, using the same processor and memory resources that handle normal touch input processing. The waveform signature database can be stored in existing device memory, and the detection algorithm reuses the device's audio processing capabilities, allowing one system to serve multiple functions without requiring entirely separate hardware subsystems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer of acoustic signal analysis between the physical touch contact and the software application. Instead of directly detecting object properties, the system uses acoustic waveforms as an intermediate representation that can be processed through signature comparison algorithms, bridging the gap between physical contact and digital recognition
2Reliability
If multiple sensors and signal processing components are added to detect touch object types, then reliability of object type detection is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the device's existing acoustic sensors and processing capabilities to perform object type detection, allowing the device to serve itself without requiring external or specialized components. The waveform signature comparison algorithm processes acoustic signals that are naturally generated during touch interaction, eliminating the need for separate detection hardware
Solution Approach 2:
Existing device components such as microphones, acoustic sensors, and digital signal processors are repurposed for object type detection in addition to their primary functions. The same hardware infrastructure supports both normal audio processing and the specialized waveform signature analysis needed for identifying touch objects
3Measurement precision
If waveform signature database is implemented to store object contact patterns, then measurement precision of object identification is improved, but loss of memory resources increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential characteristics of object contact patterns into compact waveform signatures stored in the database. Instead of storing complete acoustic recordings or detailed physical property data, the system stores condensed signature representations that capture the unique acoustic fingerprint of each object type, significantly reducing memory requirements while maintaining identification accuracy
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate and efficient differentiation of touch input objects, allowing applications to provide tailored functionality based on the detected object type, enhancing user interaction and usability across various devices.
Implementation Method 1
A signal that captures a disturbance (e.g., sound, vibration, etc.) by a touch input object contacting a touch input surface is received. In some embodiments, the received signal is received from a transducer coupled to a medium of the touch input surface
Implementation Method 2
At least a portion of the received signal is filtered to reduce noise included in the received signal
Data Source
AI summary
A signal to be used to propagate a propagating signal through a propagating medium with a touch input surface is sent. The propagating signal has been allowed to propagate through the propagating medium to a plurality of receivers coupled to the propagating medium. A received signal affected by a touch input object contacting the touch input surface is received. At least a portion of the received signal is compared with one or more reference signals.