Fingerprint-Enabled Multi-Function Keyboard Key
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for digital and electronic appliances, such as keyboards and touch screens, face inefficiencies due to the need for rapid key presses to select functions, cumbersome initialization processes, and the requirement for users to remember pre-defined finger-key associations, leading to errors and user inconvenience.
Innovation Solution
Integration of fingerprint sensors into touch-enabled surfaces that capture and analyze the unique ridges and valleys of fingertips to differentiate between fingers, allowing for the selection of specific functions based on the identified finger, enabling efficient and user-friendly multi-functionality without the need for repeated key presses or complex initialization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If rapid repeated pressing of a key is used to select different functions, then multiple functions can be accessed through a single key, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of rapid repeated key pressing with a biometric identification system using fingerprint sensors. Instead of mechanically pressing the same key multiple times, the user places their finger on the key, and the system optically captures and analyzes fingerprint ridges and valleys to automatically determine the specific function, thereby eliminating the cumbersome repeated pressing operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary element - the fingerprint sensor and processing system - between the user's finger and the key function selection. This intermediary automatically identifies the specific finger through biometric analysis and maps it to the corresponding function, serving as a mediator that translates a simple finger placement into the desired operational command without requiring repeated mechanical actions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pre-defined finger-key associations are implemented, then specific functions can be assigned to specific fingers, but the initialization process becomes cumbersome and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service initialization process where the system automatically captures and stores fingerprint templates during a simple enrollment phase. Instead of requiring complex manual configuration or pre-defined associations, the system autonomously performs fingerprint scanning, ridge-valley analysis, and template storage when the user places their fingers on the sensor during initialization, greatly simplifying the setup process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary fingerprint capture and template creation during the initialization phase. The system proactively scans and stores the user's fingerprint data before actual operation begins, so that during normal use, the system can quickly match fingerprints against the pre-stored templates without requiring complex real-time analysis or configuration.
3Productivity
If multiple functions are associated with a single key, then the number of keys can be reduced, but users must remember pre-defined associations which leads to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making each key have a unique biometric characteristic - the fingerprint pattern of the specific finger that presses it. Instead of all keys having the same function set requiring users to remember associations, each key is locally customized to recognize specific fingerprint ridges and valleys, providing intuitive and error-free function selection based on the natural identity of the finger rather than arbitrary memorization.
4Extent of automation
If fingerprint sensors are integrated into touch surfaces, then finger identification becomes automatic, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fingerprint sensor functionality with the existing touch-sensitive key structure. Instead of adding separate, complex biometric systems, the invention integrates optical sensors and processing capabilities directly into the key assembly, combining the touch detection and fingerprint recognition functions into a unified structure that leverages the existing form factor and user interaction model.
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
This solution allows for fast and accurate selection of functions by associating specific fingers with corresponding actions, reducing errors and simplifying the initialization process, enhancing user experience and security by ensuring only enrolled users can access the functionality.
Implementation Method 1
capturing at least part of distinguishing ridges and valleys of the touching fingertip touching a specific area, a processing module arranged to analyze said distinguishing ridges and valleys of the touching fingertip
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an interface application enabling multi-functionality of a specific area part of an interface in a computerized device. The interface comprised of: at least one touch enabled surface, where in at least partial area surface is integrated with at least one fingerprint sensor for capturing at least part of distinguishing ridges and valleys of the touching fingertip touching a specific area, a processing module arranged to analyze said distinguishing ridges and valleys of the touching fingertip, for identifying characteristic of the specific touching finger differentiating said finger from other fingers of the same user (either from the same of both hands), and an activation module for determining the functionality of said specified area based on the identified touching finger(s).