Off-Display Intensity-Sensitive Input Regions for Space-Saving UI Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices with displays face inefficiencies in user interface interactions due to limited feedback from mechanical and solid state buttons, which occupy valuable display space and require multiple inputs for additional functionality.
Innovation Solution
Implementing intensity-sensitive input regions off-display, providing visual, haptic, and/or audio feedback to enhance user interaction efficiency and reduce clutter by integrating tactile output generators for intuitive device control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical buttons are used for user input, then user interaction is enabled, but feedback is limited and display space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the button functionality from the display area by placing intensity-sensitive input regions on the sides of the device. This allows mechanical buttons to be removed or minimized while maintaining input capabilities, thereby preserving display space while enabling user interaction through alternative input zones
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional on-display buttons to off-display side buttons, utilizing the lateral dimension of the device. This dimensional shift moves input controls from the two-dimensional display surface to the three-dimensional device perimeter, freeing up display area while maintaining accessibility
2Ease of operation
If solid state home buttons with tactile output generators are used, then mechanical button feedback is simulated, but display space is occupied and functionality is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical buttons and solid state buttons with intensity-sensitive input regions that detect pressure variations. This substitution eliminates the need for tactile output generators while providing continuous intensity information, replacing mechanical feedback systems with sensor-based detection
Solution Approach 2:
The intensity-sensitive input regions serve multiple functions: they detect press inputs, measure intensity levels, trigger different operations based on intensity thresholds, and provide visual feedback through display elements. This multi-functionality consolidates what previously required separate mechanical components into a single integrated system
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple hardware controls are added to provide additional functionality, then device capabilities are enhanced, but device clutter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes intensity parameter changes to differentiate between multiple operations. By detecting different pressure thresholds and intensity levels, the system can trigger various functions (such as different camera operations or media controls) without requiring separate physical buttons, thereby enhancing functionality while maintaining a clean device design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic feedback mechanisms where visual indicators on the display change in response to input intensity. This dynamic interaction allows the interface to adapt to user input levels, providing contextual information and confirming operations without requiring additional static hardware controls
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic device with a first off-display input region detects a first portion of an input on the input region. In response to the first portion of the input: when the first portion of the input meets first criteria without a characteristic intensity of the first input increasing above a first intensity threshold, the device provides a first output that indicates a current state of a first attribute of the device without altering the first attribute. The device detects a second portion of the input. In response to the second portion of the input: if the second portion of the first input meets second criteria that require the characteristic intensity of the input increases above the first intensity threshold, the device performs a first operation that alters the first attribute of the device; and otherwise, the device forgoes performing the first operation.