Movable Input Device with Piezoelectric Actuator for Tactile Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic devices with touch-sensitive displays face challenges in providing effective tactile feedback due to limited space and the need for improved user interaction, especially as devices shrink in size.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a movable input device that engages with a touch-sensitive display and utilizes piezoelectric actuators to provide tactile feedback when actuated, allowing for simulated switch actuation and enhanced user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the device size is decreased to improve portability, then the device becomes more portable, but the space for user input and output is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the input device and display into a single integrated unit where the input device is positioned over the display. This merging allows the system to provide both visual output and tactile input in a compact form factor, resolving the contradiction between device size and user interaction space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the z-dimension by allowing the input device to move between engaged and disengaged positions relative to the display. This vertical movement creates additional interaction space without increasing the device's footprint, enabling enhanced user input capability in a compact form.
2Volume of moving object
If a touch-sensitive display is used to reduce device size, then the device becomes more compact, but tactile feedback is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the advantages of both touch-sensitive displays and tactile input devices by positioning the input device over the display. The display provides visual feedback while the input device provides tactile feedback through engagement and disengagement movements, creating a hybrid interaction system.
Solution Approach 2:
The input device acts as an intermediary between the user and the touch-sensitive display. It provides tactile feedback to the user while still allowing the display to provide visual feedback, mediating between the limitations of touch-sensitive displays and user needs for tactile interaction.
3Ease of operation
If the input device is constantly engaged with the touch-sensitive display, then user interaction is enhanced, but the risk of accidental inputs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the input device dynamic by allowing it to move between engaged and disengaged positions. When engaged, it provides enhanced tactile feedback for deliberate inputs. When disengaged, it reduces the risk of accidental inputs. This dynamic positioning allows the system to adapt to different interaction needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback to confirm deliberate user actions. The tactile feedback provided when the input device is engaged gives users confidence that their input was registered, reducing the need for repeated inputs and minimizing accidental activations.
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 enhances user interaction by providing tactile feedback, reducing the risk of accidental multiple inputs and device damage, while maintaining a compact form factor, thus improving the overall user experience and device functionality.
Implementation Method 1
Incorporating a movable input device that engages with a touch-sensitive display and utilizes piezoelectric actuators to provide tactile feedback when actuated
Data Source
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AI summary
A portable electronic device comprising a display, an actuator actuatable to impart a force on the display, an input device moveable from a first position in which the input device is disengaged from the display to a second position in which the input device is engaged with the display, wherein when the input device is moved to the second position, the actuator is actuated to provide tactile feedback to the input device through the display.