Glance Keypad One-Handed Input with Directional Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing one-handed data input devices are either difficult to learn and operate, require complex finger combinations, or lack the tactile feedback and ergonomic design of traditional keyboards, making them inefficient for fast and accurate data entry.
Innovation Solution
A one-finger data input device, or 'glance keypad,' featuring a plurality of input-keys with actuators that detect glancing touches in different directions, providing tactile feedback and allowing for rapid, intuitive symbol encoding without the need for complex finger motions or precise key presses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a chording keyboard is used for one-handed input, then the keyboard construction is simple, but the operation becomes difficult and time-consuming requiring up to five keystrokes per symbol
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard is divided into multiple zones, each assigned to a specific finger, with each zone containing multiple keys that can be reached by that finger. This segmentation allows single-keystroke operation while maintaining simple construction, as each finger independently controls its assigned zone without requiring complex multi-key combinations.
2Area of stationary object
If small keys are used to fit many keys in a small space, then the keyboard compactness is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates requiring deliberate and tense hand motions
Solution Approach 1:
Each finger zone is designed with keys of optimal size for that specific finger's reach and dexterity. The keys are not uniformly small but are sized appropriately for their location and the finger assigned to them, providing tactile feedback and ease of operation while maintaining overall keyboard compactness through efficient spatial arrangement.
3Ease of operation
If spring-loaded plunger switches are used for key actuation, then the tactile feedback is improved, but the operation sequence becomes complex requiring vertical key-press, stop, and rise
Solution Approach 1:
The switch mechanism is designed to respond dynamically to lateral finger motions rather than requiring a complete press-and-release cycle. The switches can be actuated by simple lateral movements of the finger across the key, eliminating the need for deliberate vertical pressing and rising sequences, thus reducing keystroke time while maintaining tactile feedback.
4Weight of moving object
If a virtual keyboard on touch screen is used in hand-held devices, then the portability is improved, but the data input functionality deteriorates providing only basic functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The physical keyboard maintains universal applicability across different computing devices while being optimized for one-handed operation. It provides comprehensive data input functionality including letter, number, and symbol encoding in a compact form factor that preserves device portability, unlike virtual keyboards that are limited to basic functions.
Data Source
AI summary
One hand operated device with the functionality of standard computer keyboard is provided. User encodes a symbol with a sweeping motion of a finger, “flicking” gently at one of plurality of touch sensitive actuators.