Elevator Call Input Device with Tactile Switch for Accessibility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Elevator call input devices, particularly those in elevator cars, often do not comply with European Standard 81-70, which requires a pushbutton for disabled passengers, and existing solutions like touchscreen-based car call input devices lack accessibility features for visually impaired individuals.
Innovation Solution
A call input device with a physically small, flat switch projecting from the touchscreen area, featuring Braille script characters and a pressure force requirement of 2.5N to 5.0N, which can be attached in a force-fitting or interlocking manner, providing tactile feedback and programmable functional designators to change the elevator operating mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a touchscreen is used for car call input, then the device appears modern and space-saving, but it fails to comply with EN81-70 standards for disabled accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a physical pushbutton (switch) with a touchscreen interface, merging the tactile feedback and accessibility of mechanical buttons with the modern, space-saving advantages of touchscreen technology. The switch is integrated into the touchscreen housing and projects into the touchscreen area, creating a hybrid device that satisfies both accessibility requirements and modern design constraints.
2Reliability
If a pushbutton for disabled is added to the touchscreen, then EN81-70 compliance is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pushbutton serves multiple functions: it provides tactile feedback for visually impaired users, maintains EN81-70 compliance, and can be integrated into the touchscreen housing structure. The switch can be attached in various ways (force-fitting, interlocking, or integral), and the same housing can accommodate both the switch and touchscreen elements, reducing overall device complexity despite the added functionality.
3Ease of operation
If the switch is made with Braille script characters of at least 0.8 mm height, then accessibility for blind passengers is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies a minimum Braille character height of 0.8 mm, which is a parameter change that ensures accessibility while providing a clear manufacturing specification. This parameter threshold balances accessibility requirements with manufacturability, ensuring that the Braille characters are sufficiently raised to be detectable by blind users through tactile sensation, while remaining within reasonable manufacturing capabilities.
4Ease of operation
If the switch requires a pressure force of 2.5N to 5.0N to operate, then the activation is easy for disabled users, but the force requirement is more stringent than typical buttons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent defines a specific pressure force range of 2.5N to 5.0N for switch activation, which is optimized for disabled users. This parameter range is lower than typical button forces, making it easier for users with limited hand strength to operate. The force requirement balances ease of operation with sufficient activation clarity, ensuring that the switch responds reliably to gentle pressure while maintaining a distinct tactile feedback mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A call input device includes at least one touch screen for entering at least one call for an elevator installation. At least one switch protrudes from at least one area of the call input device outside of the touch screen in at least one first input area of the touch screen.