Contactless Input Apparatus with Hover Confirmation Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing contactless input methods for multi-function peripherals (MFPs) are prone to user errors due to the lack of tactile feedback, making it difficult for users to confirm inputs accurately, leading to unintended multiple inputs or the need to restart processes.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus with a display unit, a first detection unit for contactless position detection, and a second detection unit for confirming instructions, along with an input unit that processes data only when the confirmation is detected, utilizing infrared or capacitive touch panels to accurately determine user inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If contactless input detection is implemented, then user safety and hygiene are improved, but input accuracy and user confirmation are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides visual feedback by displaying a marker at the detected hover position and showing confirmation screens that clearly indicate whether input has been registered. This feedback mechanism allows users to verify contactless inputs accurately without tactile feedback, resolving the contradiction between contactless operation and input accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary confirmation mechanism between the hover detection and input execution. The system detects hover position, displays confirmation information, and only executes input after user verification, acting as an intermediary step that ensures accuracy while maintaining contactless operation.
2Extent of automation
If contactless input is confirmed based on predetermined time, then input confirmation is automated, but user synchronization and input accuracy are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of relying on predetermined time delays, the system provides immediate visual feedback displaying the detected hover position and confirmation status. This real-time feedback allows users to synchronize their actions with system recognition without relying on timing, improving both automation and accuracy.
3Reliability
If multiple inputs are required due to lack of click feeling, then input confirmation is attempted, but operation efficiency and productivity are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the confirmation function from a separate physical action (clicking) and integrates it into the hover detection process itself. The system detects hover position and provides confirmation display, allowing single-step input confirmation that maintains reliability while improving efficiency.
4Ease of operation
If auxiliary display is provided near hover position, then input target visibility is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the auxiliary display function with the existing touch panel display by displaying markers and confirmation information on the same screen. This integration approach improves input target visibility without requiring separate display components, maintaining ease of operation while avoiding increased device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes a display unit, a first detection unit that detects a position of an object located in a vertical direction with respect to the display unit and that interacts with the display unit in a contactless manner, wherein detecting the position results in detecting an instruction associated with the at least one input object that is displayed on the display unit and corresponds to the position of the object, a second detection unit configured to detect confirmation of the instruction detected by the first detection unit, and an input unit configured to input data corresponding to the at least one input object in a case where the second detection unit detects confirmation of the instruction associated with the at least one input object in a state where the first detection unit detects the instruction associated with the at least one input object.