Covered Screen Touch Activation for Flip Covers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices with covers, such as flip or sliding covers, have limited executable functions due to the small size of the covered screen area, making it inconvenient for users to manipulate the device effectively, especially when the cover is closed.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device activates a covered area of the screen when the cover is closed, allowing users to input gestures or commands that trigger specific functions, enabling functionality without opening the cover.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cover with a projection portion is coupled with the electronic device to display screens on a partial area, then the device structure is protected and portability is improved, but the executable functions are limited and user manipulation becomes inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the functional area from the visible partial screen to the entire covered area by detecting touch inputs through the cover material. This dimensional extension allows users to interact with the full screen area even when covered, effectively resolving the limitation of executable functions without requiring the cover to be opened.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover itself acts as an intermediary medium that transmits touch inputs from the user to the touchscreen beneath it. By enabling the cover to detect and transmit touch signals, the system allows user manipulation through the cover material, making the cover a functional interface rather than just a protective barrier.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the cover is used to protect the screen, then device protection is improved, but users need to open the cover for direct input which reduces convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The cover serves as an intermediary that simultaneously provides physical protection and input functionality. By equipping the cover with touch detection capability, it allows users to input commands while the cover remains closed, eliminating the need to open the cover for interaction while maintaining screen protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover is transformed from a single-function protective element to a multi-functional component that combines screen protection with input reception. This universal design allows the cover to perform both protective and interactive functions, resolving the contradiction between protection and operational convenience.
3Device complexity
If only a partial area of the screen is utilized due to the cover projection, then the device structure is simplified, but the usable screen area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent virtualizes the usable screen area by enabling touch detection across the entire covered region. Instead of being constrained by the physical visible area, the system extends functionality to the full screen area through the cover, effectively increasing the usable area without adding physical complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a method and apparatus enabling an electronic device to execute various functions when a flip cover is closed, in which if a screen is covered with or closed by a cover device for the electronic device, a covered area including at least a part of the remaining area of the screen except for an open area is activated, and a function corresponding to a user input inputted onto the covered area is executed.