Annular Panel Sign with Segmented Indicia for Status Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic device panels face challenges in clearly conveying device status due to inadequate contrast, space constraints, and cost issues, particularly with matrix displays and single LED indicators, which can confuse users and complicate button placement.
Innovation Solution
A panel with an annular sign featuring three indicia means, each an annular segment with small angular gaps, using bicolor or tricolor LEDs for clear visibility, and optionally a central button with standardized symbols, along with a process to transfer data to a computer for remote display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a matrix display is used to show graphical symbols and text information, then the information transmission capability is improved, but the space occupation and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The annular sign is segmented into multiple indicia means (at least three) arranged along the annular path, with each indicium representing a specific device status. This segmentation allows comprehensive status information to be displayed using minimal space, as each segment conveys distinct information without requiring a full matrix display.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional matrix display to an annular (circular) arrangement of indicia. By organizing status indicators along an annular path rather than in a grid, the design achieves efficient space utilization while maintaining clear visual distinction between different status states through angular positioning.
2Loss of information
If several LED indicators are used to represent different device statuses, then the information display capability is improved, but the user interpretation difficulty increases due to lack of visual contrast
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs color changes as a primary visual differentiation mechanism. Different indicia means are assigned different colors (e.g., green for normal operation, red for error conditions, yellow for warnings), allowing users to instantly interpret device status without requiring labels or manuals. The color-coded annular segments provide intuitive visual feedback that resolves interpretation difficulties.
3Adaptability or versatility
If buttons are added to the panel for device control, then the device functionality is improved, but the panel surface space is significantly occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the status indication function and control function into a single integrated annular interface. The same annular sign that displays device status also serves as the control interface, with users interacting by touching or activating specific indicia. This merging eliminates the need for separate buttons, maintaining full device functionality while minimizing panel space occupation.
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
The solution provides clear, intuitive status indication with minimal space usage, avoiding cross-talk and enhancing user recognition, while allowing remote information replication on a computer display.
Implementation Method 1
each light source comprises at least one LED
Implementation Method 2
each light source comprises a transparent component with refraction index greater than the refraction index of the air, wherein the transparent component is configured so that the emitted light from the associated LED(s) creates a homogenous image
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The present invention concerns a panel (2) for an electronic device (1), with a front side, and a back side, the panel (2) comprising a sign (3), suitable to be viewed from the panel's front side, wherein the sign (3) has a an annular shape. The sign has 3 indicia means (4,5,6), each being an annular segment of the annular shape, each with an angular length (β), and further each two adjacent indicia means (4,5,6) are spaced by an angular gap alpha, and wherein 0°<= alpha is <= 20 °, preferably 2° <= alpha <= 15°, further preferably 5° <= alpha <= 15°.