Auxiliary Input Device Conductor Configuration for Touch Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Portable electronic devices face challenges in providing diverse functions while maintaining a slim form factor and simple user interfaces, necessitating an efficient and cost-effective input method that does not require a separate power supply and minimizes complex physical connections.

Innovation Solution

An auxiliary input device with a cylindrical fixing body and a rotary knob featuring conductors for detection by a touch screen, allowing for input event recognition and execution of corresponding functions without a separate power supply, using a touch screen for both input and display on a single physical screen.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a separate power supply is used for the auxiliary input device, then the device can operate independently, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveindependent operation capabilityVSAvoidpower supply structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The auxiliary input device is merged with the main device's power supply system. The auxiliary input device shares the main device's battery and power management circuitry, eliminating the need for a separate power supply. This is achieved by electrically connecting the auxiliary input device to the main device's power bus through the conductive frame structure, allowing it to operate independently in function while sharing power infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If complex physical connections are used for the auxiliary input device, then the connection reliability improves, but the ease of manufacture and device simplicity deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidphysical connection structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The conductive frame structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the structural support for the auxiliary input device, provides electrical connection pathways for signal and power transmission, and enables detection of the auxiliary device's presence and type. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate connection components, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining reliable electrical connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The auxiliary input device automatically establishes electrical connections through its conductive frame structure when placed on the display. The system self-detects the auxiliary device via the conductive frame's electrical properties, automatically configures the connection, and begins operation without requiring manual wiring or complex connection protocols. The conductive frame itself serves as both the mounting structure and the connection medium.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate input devices are used to provide diverse functions, then the functional versatility improves, but the user interface complexity and device thickness increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional diversityVSAvoiduser interface structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adapts its functionality based on the type of auxiliary input device detected. The processor identifies the specific auxiliary device through the conductive frame configuration and automatically configures the user interface and available functions accordingly. This dynamic adaptation allows a single physical platform to support multiple different input devices and function sets, providing versatility without requiring all input devices to be permanently integrated into the device structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 efficient execution of electronic device functions at a low manufacturing cost, with easy manipulation and operation, by detecting the auxiliary input device and performing corresponding functions through a processor, enhancing user interaction without the need for a separate power supply or complex physical connections.

Implementation Method 1

detecting via a touch screen a type of an auxiliary input device placed on a display based on a configuration of at least one or more conductors on the auxiliary input device

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCapacitive coupling: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS11681430B2Electronic device using auxiliary input device and operating method thereof

Publication Date: 2023.06.20 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

An electronic device includes a display for detecting touch input, and at least one processor for recognizing a type of an auxiliary input device placed on the display. A method for utilizing the electronic device includes detecting via a touch screen a type of an auxiliary input device placed on a display based on a configuration of at least one or more conductors on the auxiliary input device, detecting an input event generated by the auxiliary input device, and executing via a processor at least one function of an executing program corresponding to the detected input event.