Input Device Hierarchical Manipulation Panel Tactile Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional display devices lack maneuverability as they feature virtual item buttons that cannot be directly touched or manipulated, hindering user interaction and control.

Innovation Solution

An input device with a panel featuring a hierarchical tree-like pattern and tactile response generation, combined with capacitance detection electrodes, allows for intuitive manipulation and recognition of icons and functions through a combination of light guides and translucent materials.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If virtual item buttons are used on the display screen, then the device can display multiple screens and functions, but the user cannot directly touch or manipulate the buttons, reducing maneuverability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay capabilityVSAvoidmaneuverability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a physical manipulation panel with tactile buttons as an intermediary between the user and the display screen. This panel is positioned in front of the display and allows direct tactile interaction, bridging the gap between virtual display capabilities and physical user interaction needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adds a spatial dimension by placing a physical manipulation panel in front of the display screen, creating a layered structure. This allows the system to maintain virtual display functionality while adding a physical interaction layer that users can directly touch and manipulate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If a physical manipulation panel is added in front of the display, then direct tactile interaction is enabled, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovemaneuverabilityVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the manipulation panel with the display unit by positioning them in close proximity and integrating their control functions. The manipulation panel and display screen work as a unified interface system, reducing the need for separate control mechanisms and simplifying the overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The manipulation panel serves multiple functions: it provides tactile feedback for user interaction, displays visual information through integrated display elements, and enables direct manipulation of controls. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby managing structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If hierarchical tree-like patterns are used on the manipulation panel, then user recognition and manipulation of functions is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser recognitionVSAvoidpattern accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies hierarchical tree-like patterns specifically to the manipulation panel's surface structure, creating localized tactile and visual cues. This local application of complex patterns only where needed (on the manipulation panel) rather than throughout the entire device reduces overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining user recognition benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

Enhances user interaction by providing superior maneuverability and intuitive control over vehicle functions, such as door locking and air conditioner settings, through a tactile and visual interface.

Implementation Method 1

a capacitance detection electrode provided in the manipulation area

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance detection: Capacitance

Implementation Method 2

a tactile response generation portion provided in the manipulation area so as to be along the plurality of icon display portions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTactile response generation: Vibration

Data Source

PatentUS20230152897A1Input Device
Publication Date: 2023.05.18 ALPS ALPINE CO LTD
  • US20230152897A1 patent drawing
  • US20230152897A1 patent drawing
  • US20230152897A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An input device has: a panel having a front surface; a manipulation area provided on the front surface so as to be continuous in hierarchical form; a capacitance detection electrode provided in the manipulation area; a plurality of icon display portions provided in the manipulation area, each icon display portion representing one of a plurality of functions; and a tactile response generation portion provided in the manipulation area so as to be along the plurality of icon display portions.