Fingerprint Control Button Switching to Prevent Input Errors

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Solution Overview

Problem

In portable devices with a multi-function control button incorporating fingerprint recognition and control input detection functions, there is a risk of unintended errors occurring when the device fails to distinguish between the two functions, leading to incorrect execution of commands.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that allow for the selective activation of the fingerprint recognition function and control input detection function of a control button, where the control input detection function is temporarily deactivated during fingerprint recognition, preventing errors and enabling seamless execution of commands post-recognition.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a control button incorporates both fingerprint recognition function and control input detection function, then the device achieves multi-functionality and portability, but the device may incorrectly execute commands when it fails to distinguish between the two functions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-functionality of control buttonVSAvoidaccuracy of function distinction
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the control button's function state changeable. The button can dynamically switch between fingerprint recognition mode and control input detection mode based on operational context. The controller activates or deactivates the control input detection function according to whether fingerprint recognition is being performed, allowing the same hardware to adapt its behavior to different functional requirements without physical reconfiguration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback through the controller that monitors the operational state of the control button and adjusts the detection function accordingly. When fingerprint recognition is detected as the active function, the controller provides feedback by deactivating the control input detection function to prevent incorrect command execution. This closed-loop control ensures the button performs only the intended function at any given time, resolving the ambiguity between multiple functions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Ease of operation

If the control input detection function remains active during fingerprint recognition, then the device can respond to all user inputs, but unintended errors occur when control button execution is triggered during fingerprint scanning

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresponsiveness to user inputVSAvoidaccuracy of input interpretation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The control input detection function is made dynamic rather than continuously active. The system adjusts the detection function's activation state based on the current operational context - active when control input is needed, deactivated when fingerprint recognition is in progress. This dynamic control prevents the system from misinterpreting fingerprint scanning touches as control button presses, eliminating unintended error execution while maintaining responsiveness during appropriate operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary anti-action by deactivating the control input detection function in advance before fingerprint recognition errors can occur. When the system detects that fingerprint recognition is the intended function, it proactively disables the control input detection capability, preventing potential misinterpretation of user input before it can lead to incorrect command execution. This preemptive measure ensures input accuracy is maintained throughout the fingerprint recognition process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Data Source

PatentEP2997517B1Portable device including a fingerprint scanner and method of controlling therefor
Publication Date: 2020.03.04 LG ELECTRONICS INC
  • EP2997517B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2997517B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2997517B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A method of controlling a portable device according to one embodiment of the present specification may be able to selectively activate the functions of a multifunctional control button. The method of controlling the portable device may include the steps of sensing a first control input for a control button configured to perform a fingerprint recognition function and a control input detection function, recognizing a fingerprint of the first control input by activating the fingerprint recognition function, if the fingerprint recognition function is activated, deactivating the control input detection function, and if the activated fingerprint recognition function is terminated, activating the control input detection function.