Input Device Tactile Uniformity via Cushion Void Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional input devices can cause discomfort to users due to differences in tactile sensations between designed and non-designed areas, leading to an unsatisfactory user experience.
Innovation Solution
The input device incorporates a surface layer, a cushion layer with voids, and a frame structure that applies a consistent tactile sensation across both designed and non-designed areas, utilizing a light source to enhance detection accuracy and reduce discomfort through a push-in detector and vibration device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a design portion is disposed on only a part of the surface layer, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the tactile sensation becomes non-uniform causing user discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The cushion layer is configured with different local properties: a first region with a higher proportion of voids corresponding to the design portion, and a second region with a lower proportion of voids corresponding to the non-design portion. This local differentiation in void distribution allows each region to provide appropriate tactile feedback while maintaining overall uniformity across the surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the cushion layer by controlling the void proportion in different regions. The void proportion serves as a key parameter that is adjusted spatially to achieve different tactile characteristics in design versus non-design areas, thereby resolving the contradiction between aesthetic differentiation and tactile uniformity.
2Ease of manufacture
If the cushion layer has uniform void distribution, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the tactile sensation cannot be differentiated between design and non-design areas
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than using a completely uniform cushion layer, the patent introduces local quality variations through controlled void distribution. The cushion layer maintains relative simplicity in structure while incorporating regional differences in void proportion to achieve tactile differentiation between design and non-design areas.
3Reliability
If the surface layer is pressed in non-design areas, then the push-in detector may register false inputs, but reducing detection sensitivity may miss valid inputs
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit receives feedback from the push-in detector and uses the lighting state as a validation criterion. When lighting is detected, push-in events are registered as valid inputs; when lighting is off, push-in events are treated as invalid. This feedback mechanism allows the system to distinguish between intentional and unintentional presses without reducing overall detection sensitivity.
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
The solution provides a consistent and soft tactile sensation, reducing user discomfort and improving detection accuracy by ensuring the same tactile experience regardless of the area pressed, while accurately detecting user inputs.
Implementation Method 1
a cushion layer disposed on the side of the back surface of the surface layer and having a void in the cushion layer
Implementation Method 2
a light source for illuminating the design on a side of the frame opposite to the cushion layer
Data Source
AI summary
An input device includes: a surface layer; a design sheet disposed on a front surface side or a back surface side of the surface layer; a cushion layer disposed on the back surface side of the surface layer and having a void therein; a plate-shaped frame disposed on a side of the cushion layer opposite to the surface layer; a main body that movably holds the frame in a first direction, in which the surface layer and the frame are stacked, when the surface layer is pressed; and a push-in detector mechanically connected to the frame. The design sheet includes a first portion in which a design is disposed and a second portion in which the design is not disposed in a plan view, and each of the surface layer and the cushion layer extends across the first portion and the second portion in the plan view.