Movable Overlay Component for Compute Device Input Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional laptop layouts are limited in versatility and do not effectively utilize advanced technologies such as foldable electronics and electronic paper displays, restricting the number of usable surfaces and interaction methods.
Innovation Solution
A compute device with an overlay component that can unfold to cover part of the keyboard, featuring a touch sensor and optionally an electronic display, allowing seamless transition between input surfaces and display usage, and being electrically switchable between opaque and clear states for adaptive functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional laptop layout is used, then the device structure is simple and familiar, but the number of usable surfaces and interaction methods is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The display system is segmented into multiple independent surfaces: the main display on the lid and the overlay component that can be positioned at different locations. This segmentation allows each surface to serve different functions simultaneously, increasing versatility without requiring a complete redesign of the device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The overlay component is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to transition between different positions (covering the keyboard, positioned beside the display, or removed entirely). This dynamic positioning capability enables the same physical component to adapt to multiple usage scenarios, enhancing versatility while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If foldable electronics and electronic paper displays are integrated, then display versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The overlay component is designed as a multi-functional element that can serve as an electronic paper display, a touch input surface, or be removed entirely to reveal the main display. By making this single component universal rather than dedicated to one function, the patent achieves display versatility without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The overlay component utilizes thin-film technology including flexible circuits and thin-film transistors, allowing it to be lightweight and adaptable. This approach integrates advanced display technology while minimizing the added complexity and weight compared to traditional rigid display structures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an overlay component is added to provide additional input surfaces, then user interaction versatility is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into the overlay component: it combines the electronic paper display functionality, touch sensing capability, and physical keyboard coverage function into a single integrated component. This consolidation provides diverse input methods while actually reducing overall device complexity compared to having separate components for each function.
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 additional input surfaces and display options, improving versatility and usability while maintaining a seamless user experience across different configurations.
Implementation Method 1
electrically switchable between opaque and clear states for adaptive functionality
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for overlay components for compute devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, an overlay component on a base portion of a compute device can be moved from a folded or closed position (in which it does not cover the keyboard) to an unfolded or open position (in which it covers part of the keyboard). The base portion includes a touch sensor that allows the overlay component to be used as a touch surface. In another embodiment, an overlay component of a compute device is movable from one position adjacent a display of the compute device to another position adjacent a base of the compute device. The overlay component is electrically switchable from a transparent state to an opaque state, allowing the display to be seen through it in one position and allowing it to be used as an opaque drawing surface in another position.