Input Device Invisible Button Allocation via Optical Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing input devices lack the ability to efficiently allocate and detect invisible operational functions, which are not visually ascertainable, leading to user confusion and potential misoperations.

Innovation Solution

An input device with a display, a detector that optically detects operation inputs, and an allocating unit that variably allocates a second operational function to a detection region, allowing for the allocation of invisible buttons beyond the visible display area, enabling multi-touch detection and improved user interaction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If operational functions are allocated only to visually ascertainable regions, then user understanding is improved, but the detection region utilization is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser understandingVSAvoiddetection region utilization

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extends the operational interface from the two-dimensional visible display area into the third spatial dimension by utilizing the detection region below the display surface. Invisible buttons are allocated to this undisplayed region, effectively adding a new dimension for function allocation without interfering with visual information presentation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a virtual copy of the button interface in the detection region that mirrors the functional layout of visible buttons. This invisible button configuration allows users to operate functions by touching the detection region corresponding to visible button positions, providing tactile interaction without visual clutter.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

2Adaptability or versatility

If more operational functions are allocated to the display area, then functional versatility is improved, but visual clutter increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional versatilityVSAvoidvisual clutter

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves visual clutter by migrating excess operational functions from the crowded display area to the undisplayed detection region. This dimensional transition allows the display to maintain visual simplicity while the detection region provides additional functional capacity through invisible buttons.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The detection region serves multiple functions: it acts as both the operational interface for invisible buttons and maintains visual clarity for information display. This multi-functionality allows the system to provide comprehensive operational capabilities without compromising the visual presentation area.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Area of stationary object

If invisible buttons are allocated beyond the display area, then detection region utilization is improved, but user detection difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection region utilizationVSAvoiduser detection difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms that provide users with information about invisible button locations and states. This feedback enables users to detect and operate invisible buttons in the extended detection region by receiving sensory or visual cues that guide their interactions without revealing the exact button positions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary system that mediates between the user and invisible buttons. This intermediary provides guidance, confirmation, or tactile feedback that helps users locate and operate buttons in the undisplayed detection region, bridging the gap between invisible interface elements and user awareness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 experience by reducing visible button clutter, increasing operational efficiency, and minimizing misoperations through the detection and allocation of invisible operational functions within the device's detection region.

Implementation Method 1

a detector that optically detects an operation input

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOptical detection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS10911619B2Input device, image forming apparatus, and non-transitory computer readable medium for allocating a function to a visually unascertainable detection region

Publication Date: 2021.02.02 FUJIFILM BUSINESS INNOVATION CORP

AI summary

An input device includes a display on which a work screen is displayed, a detector that optically detects an operation input, and an allocating unit that variably allocates a second operational function to a detection region of the detector. The second operation function is different from a first operational function an allocation position of which is visually ascertainable.