Display Housing Tap Detection for Closed-Clamshell Interaction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computing devices face challenges in allowing user interactions when in closed clamshell orientations, as traditional input methods like keyboard keys can be distracting and require device opening, and there is a need for more intuitive and user-friendly interaction surfaces.
Innovation Solution
The computing device utilizes vibration sensors and microphones to detect finger taps on the back surface of the display housing, enabling user interactions without opening the device, and can simulate instruments or provide feedback through audio and visual cues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional input methods like keyboard keys are used, then user interaction is enabled, but the device requires opening and keys can be distracting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical keyboard keys with vibration sensors and microphones that detect finger taps on the back surface. This substitution eliminates the need for physical keys while enabling user interaction through acoustic and vibrational signal detection, thereby simplifying the device structure while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves the interaction surface from the front display area to the back surface of the device. By detecting finger taps on the back cover, the system enables interaction without requiring the device to be opened or the display to be visible, effectively utilizing the previously unused back surface for input purposes.
2Ease of operation
If the device is kept closed, then portability is improved, but user interaction becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables interaction functions to be accessed in advance while the device remains closed. Vibration sensors and microphones are positioned to detect finger taps on the back surface, allowing users to initiate actions (such as taking photos, recording audio, or accessing shortcuts) without opening the device, thus saving time and maintaining portability.
3Ease of operation
If the back surface is used for interaction, then device closing is maintained, but detection accuracy must be sufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing modalities (vibration sensors and microphones) to detect finger taps on the back surface. By merging these different detection methods, the system achieves sufficient measurement precision for identifying tap locations and patterns while maintaining the ability to keep the device closed during interaction.
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 intuitive user interactions in closed orientations by accurately detecting finger taps and providing feedback, enhancing usability and functionality without requiring device opening.
Implementation Method 1
receiving vibration signals responsive to an object forcibly contacting a location on a back surface of a display housing
Implementation Method 2
The computing device utilizes vibration sensors and microphones to detect finger taps
Data Source
AI summary
A method can include receiving vibration signals responsive to an object forcibly contacting a location on a back surface of a display housing of a computing device; and, responsive to receipt of the vibration signals, performing at least one action via circuitry of the computing device, where the at least one action includes a user perceivable action.