Configurable Capacitive Input Area for Adaptive Touch Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional user input devices lack flexibility and adaptability, with high-density sensing arrays being complex and costly, limiting their implementation in various applications.
Innovation Solution
A user input device with a dimensionally configurable input region, utilizing multiple large-area sensing elements and a processing unit that alternates between modes based on touch inputs and environmental conditions, to dynamically adjust the input area and accuracy requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If high-density sensing arrays are used to improve adaptability, then sensing precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The input area is segmented into multiple discrete sensing zones (first sensing area, second sensing area, third sensing area) that can be independently activated. Instead of using a continuous high-density sensing array, the patent divides the sensing surface into distinct regions that are turned on or off based on operational requirements, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically configures which sensing areas are active based on operational mode. The processing unit can activate different combinations of sensing areas (first, second, and third sensing areas) depending on the required input precision and application context, allowing the device to adapt its sensing capabilities without permanently maintaining high complexity across all areas.
2Ease of operation
If large sensing areas are used to improve ease of operation, then user interaction is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Different sensing areas have different functional qualities and activation conditions. The first sensing area may be optimized for large-area gestures requiring ease of operation, while the second and third sensing areas provide higher precision detection when activated. Each sensing zone can be tailored with appropriate electrode configurations and activation thresholds to match its intended use case.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different sensing area configurations based on the required precision. When high precision is needed, the system activates smaller, more precise sensing zones (second and third sensing areas). When ease of operation is prioritized, larger sensing areas (first sensing area) are activated. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to optimize for either ease of operation or measurement precision as needed.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are directed to a user input device and methods for expanding an input area in response to an estimation of the accuracy of touch input or the likelihood that a series of touches will hit an intended touch target area. In one aspect, an embodiment includes a first capacitive area defined by a first electrode and a second capacitive area defined by the first electrode and a second electrode. The embodiment further includes a processing unit that may be configured to, in a first mode, execute an operation in response to a touch received in the first capacitive area. The processing unit may be configured to, in a second mode, execute the operation in response to the touch received in the second capacitive area.