Optical Input Tubular Member for Handheld Device Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The small size of handheld electronic communication devices limits the exterior surface area for user input and navigation, leading to inefficiencies in keyboard usage and navigation control, particularly when mechanical components wear out or become contaminated.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an optically based user input device, such as a light-transmissive tubular or disc-shaped member with an image sensor, that allows for two-dimensional cursor movement and navigation without obstructing the display screen, enabling efficient data entry and control through thumb operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical navigation components (trackballs, rotating wheels) are used, then cursor movement and scrolling functions are achieved, but the device occupies disproportionately large space and mechanical components wear out or become fouled over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical navigation components (trackballs, rotating wheels) with an optically based input device that uses an image sensor to detect finger movements. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear and fouling issues while reducing the space required for navigation control on the device surface.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical navigation components are used, then navigation functions are provided, but the components become fouled with dirt, skin oils, and contaminants
Solution Approach 1:
The optically based input device replaces mechanical surfaces that accumulate contaminants with an optical sensing system. The image sensor detects finger movements through optical fields rather than physical contact, eliminating the problem of dirt, skin oils, and other contaminants fouling the navigation component.
3Volume of moving object
If the device size is reduced to fit in pocket or palm, then portability is improved, but the keyboard surface area becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
By replacing the large mechanical navigation component with a compact optically based input device, the patent enables smaller device dimensions while maintaining adequate keyboard surface area. The optical sensor requires minimal space compared to mechanical components, allowing the overall device to be reduced to pocket or palm size.
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 optically based user input device enhances usability by providing a durable and clean navigation solution that does not interfere with the display screen, improving data entry efficiency and reducing mechanical component wear.
Implementation Method 1
an optically based user input device, such as a light-transmissive tubular or disc-shaped member with an image sensor
Data Source
AI summary
Handheld electronic communication device is presented and includes a body with a display screen and an optically based user input device. The optically based user input device is a light-transmissive tubular member. The light-transmissive tubular member has an exposed surface and an image sensor. The handheld electronic communication device further includes a microprocessor which is connected between the image sensor and the display screen. The microprocessor is capable of executing a microprocessor-run program, which receives input data representative of cursor guidance instructions from the image sensor and processes the data for output on the display screen.