Modal Lighting Control for Keypad Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of multiple functions in wireless communication handsets, such as cell phones, leads to a cluttered keypad design due to the need for additional keys, making it difficult to manufacture and navigate, especially with the challenge of intuitively understanding and using mode-specific functions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of modal lighting using a translucent layer with a first light source that prevents light from a second light source from entering specific portions, allowing for selective lighting of keypad areas based on operating modes, reducing the number of required keys through key sharing and optimizing space by using one lighting source to block the other.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated keys are added to support multiple functional modes, then the device functionality is improved, but the keypad design becomes cluttered and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies key sharing where a single physical key can represent multiple functions depending on the operating mode. For example, a key can display different characters or symbols for different modes (telephony, messaging, imaging, etc.), allowing one key to serve multiple purposes without adding physical clutter to the keypad design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs lighting sections that can be selectively illuminated to indicate different operating modes and highlight relevant keys. By changing the lighting state (on/off, different colors), the same physical key can convey different functional information, reducing the need for additional physical keys while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated keys are added to support multiple functional modes, then the device functionality is improved, but the manufacturing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple lighting sections into a single integrated lighting system. Instead of having separate lighting mechanisms for each key or mode, the invention uses a unified lighting structure with multiple controllable sections that can be selectively activated. This reduces the number of manufacturing components and simplifies the production process while still supporting multiple functional modes.
3Volume of moving object
If the device is made smaller and thinner, then the portability is improved, but the key layout becomes more crowded and difficult to navigate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses selective lighting to highlight relevant keys and display different characters on the same physical key depending on the operating mode. This allows the keypad to provide clear visual guidance for key navigation without requiring more physical space, making it easier to operate despite the compact size.
Solution Approach 2:
By implementing key sharing where each key can represent multiple functions through lighting and character display changes, the patent reduces the total number of keys needed. This allows for a more compact key layout that is easier to navigate while still providing access to all necessary functions across multiple operating modes.
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
This solution enhances user operability by clearly indicating the operating mode through selectively lit keypads, reducing key clutter, and allowing for intuitive navigation, while also optimizing space and manufacturing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
A first light source is included that is operative to project light through a translucent layer
Implementation Method 2
the first light source prevents light projected from the second light source from entering a portion of the translucent layer
Data Source
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AI summary
A device (50) with modal lighting includes a translucent layer (74); a first light source (60) operative to project light (94) through the translucent layer (74); and a second light source (65b) operative to project light (93) through the translucent layer (74). The first light source (60) prevents light (91) projected from the second light source (65b) from entering a portion (74a) of the translucent layer. A method (250) for modal lighting in a device includes projecting light by a first light source through a translucent layer (260); projecting light by a second light source through the translucent layer (270); and preventing, by the first light source light, projected by the second light source from entering a portion of the translucent layer (280).