Input Apparatus with Sequential Task Flow Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses with complex operation panels and dispersed LCD and navigation keys make it difficult for users to input commands efficiently and recognize the device's state, leading to user distraction and operational challenges.
Innovation Solution
An input apparatus with a command input unit, key input unit, navigation key input unit, and display panel unit arranged in sequence according to a task flow, utilizing a navigation key with luminous elements for feedback through various display patterns to facilitate user input and state recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the operation panel includes diverse keys and dispersed LCD area to implement increasingly diverse functions, then the functionality and versatility of the image forming apparatus is improved, but the complexity of the operation panel structure increases and user manipulation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the LCD area and navigation keys into a single integrated navigation key input unit. The display panel is positioned adjacent to the navigation key, creating a unified interaction zone where users can both view information and navigate menus without moving their hands across dispersed controls. This merging reduces structural complexity while maintaining diverse functionality through the coordinated operation of the integrated components.
2Loss of information
If the LCD area and navigation keys are dispersed to provide feedback of user input, then information display capability is improved, but the user becomes distracted and must monitor the display unit while manipulating diverse keys
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a state display unit with luminous elements arranged along the circumference of the navigation key as an intermediary feedback mechanism. This provides tactile and visual feedback directly at the control location, allowing users to recognize device state and input status without shifting attention to a dispersed LCD area. The luminous elements serve as a local mediator between user action and system response.
3Volume of moving object
If conventional operation panels are used in miniaturized image forming apparatus, then the apparatus size is reduced, but efficient and convenient utilization by users becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the circumferential dimension of the navigation key by arranging luminous elements along its circumference. This dimensional arrangement allows multiple feedback states to be displayed around a single compact control element, providing rich information feedback without increasing the physical footprint of the operation panel. The circumferential arrangement maximizes information density within the miniaturized form factor.
Data Source
AI summary
An input apparatus includes a command input unit to input a command, a key input unit having at least one key, a navigation key input unit having a rotatable navigation key, and a display panel unit to perform displaying according to manipulation of the command input unit, the key input unit, and the navigation key. In the input apparatus, the command input unit, the key input unit, the navigation key input unit, and the display panel unit are arranged in sequence according to a task flow, so a user-friendly input apparatus can be implemented.