Multi-Layer Touch Input Apparatus with Dynamic Transparency Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input apparatus with touch panels face challenges in effectively utilizing display space for both input and display functions, leading to cumbersome operations and reduced operability due to restrictions in display position and timing when multiple icons and keys are arranged, especially in multifunctional mobile terminals.
Innovation Solution
An input apparatus with a display unit that superimposes multiple layers, including a touch panel for detecting inputs, an input mode determination unit to differentiate between input modes, and an input control unit to process inputs based on determined modes, allowing inputs to be directed to specific layers without requiring users to constantly switch between layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple layers with input areas are superimposed on the display unit, then the display space utilization is improved, but it becomes difficult to determine which layer receives the input when input areas overlap
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the transparency of superimposed layers changeable based on input detection. When an input is detected in a superimposed area, the system dynamically adjusts the transparency of the upper layer to allow the user to see and identify the input area on the lower layer, thereby resolving the difficulty of determining which layer should receive the input while maintaining effective display space utilization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes visual property changes by modifying the transparency (optical property) of display layers. When an input is detected in a superimposed area, the transparency of the upper layer is changed to make the lower layer's input area visible, helping the user identify the correct input target without reducing the overall display space efficiency
2Measurement precision
If the display unit is divided into separate input and information display areas, then input accuracy is improved, but the user must constantly switch gaze between areas reducing operability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the input display area and information display area by superimposing them on the same display unit. This allows the user to see both the input keys and the input result simultaneously in overlapping positions, eliminating the need to constantly switch gaze between separate areas while maintaining input accuracy through transparent overlay display
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves the spatial conflict between input display and information display by utilizing the depth dimension through transparent superimposition. Instead of arranging displays side-by-side in the same plane, the system overlays them in different transparent layers, allowing simultaneous visibility of both input areas and information without requiring gaze switching
3Adaptability or versatility
If a touch panel with flat surface is used, then freedom of key arrangement is improved, but the user cannot sense key boundaries through touch reducing typing ability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent compensates for the lack of tactile feedback by dynamically changing the visual properties (transparency) of the touch panel display. When an input is detected near a key boundary, the system adjusts the transparency to make key boundaries more visually distinct, providing the user with enhanced visual cues similar to tactile feedback while maintaining the flexibility of flat touch panel key arrangement
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
Enables efficient use of display space by allowing direct input to any layer without cumbersome layer switching, improving user convenience and operability by ensuring inputs are accurately processed regardless of overlapping input areas on multiple layers.
Implementation Method 1
a touch panel arranged in association with the display unit and for detecting an input to the input area displayed on the display unit
Data Source
AI summary
An input apparatus 10 has a display unit 11 for displaying a screen composed of a plurality of layers including a first layer for displaying an input area and a second layer for displaying an input area, wherein the second layer is different from that of the first layer, a touch panel 12 arranged in association with the display unit 11 and for detecting an input to an input area, a determination unit 17 for determining an input mode to the touch panel 12, a detection unit 16 for detecting an input to a superimposed area of input areas displayed on the first and second layers and a processing unit 19 for processing, when the input is determined as an input of a first input mode, the input as an input to the input area displayed on the first layer and when the input is determined as an input of a second input mode, the input as an input to the input area displayed on the second layer.