Dynamic Key Illumination for In-Vehicle Device Operability
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Solution Overview
Problem
In electronic devices, particularly in-vehicle devices, it is difficult for users to recognize which operation key to operate, reducing operability, especially for drivers.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a display screen and operation keys, where a dynamic figure is displayed on the screen to indicate the specific operation key to be used, accompanied by luminance changes in the illuminating portion, to guide the user when a certain state or selection is made, such as during music selection or incoming calls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operation keys are arranged on the device, then the device functionality is enhanced, but it becomes difficult for users to recognize which key to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color changes and luminance variations of the illuminating portions to indicate different operational states. When a specific operation key should be operated, its illuminating portion displays a distinct color or brightness level, enabling users to easily identify the correct key among multiple keys without confusion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic illumination patterns where the illuminating portions change their lighting behavior based on the current state. The system dynamically highlights the operable key through luminance changes and timing control, creating a time-vary visual guide that adapts to different operational contexts.
2Device complexity
If static information is displayed on the screen, then the display is simple, but users cannot easily recognize which operation key to press
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static display into dynamic visual guidance by implementing time-varying luminance changes in the illuminating portions. The display control portion orchestrates sequential lighting patterns that guide users through the operation sequence, maintaining display simplicity while dramatically improving key recognition through temporal dynamics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides visual feedback through the illuminating portions that respond to user interaction and system state. The feedback mechanism uses luminance changes to confirm which key should be pressed next, creating a closed-loop guidance system that enhances usability without complicating the display.
3Ease of operation
If no visual guidance is provided, then the device operation is straightforward, but operability is reduced especially for drivers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic illumination control that activates only when needed, providing visual guidance during critical operations. The luminance control portion manages the timing and intensity of illuminating portions to guide drivers through operations without requiring a permanently complex control system, thereby improving operability while maintaining reasonable system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Operation keys are arranged on a front panel along with a display screen. When an electronic device has a certain state, information indicating the certain state is displayed on the display screen. A dynamic figure is displayed on a region on the display screen corresponding to a position of a specific operation key to be operated at the time of the certain state, among the operation keys.