Optical Input Tubular Member for Handheld Device Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional handheld communication devices face challenges in efficiently utilizing their limited surface area for both data entry and navigation, as mechanical navigation devices can be bulky, prone to wear, and obstruct the display view during use.
Innovation Solution
An optically based user input device is integrated into the handheld device, allowing for two-dimensional cursor movement and acting as a button, positioned above the keyboard to avoid obstructing the display and reduce mechanical components, utilizing a light-transmissive tubular or disc-shaped member with optical sensors to detect finger movement and translate it into navigational commands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical navigation devices (trackballs, rotating wheels) are used for cursor control, then navigation functionality is provided, but device surface area is reduced and mechanical wear occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical navigation devices (trackballs, rotating wheels) with an optical input device that uses a light source and optical sensor to detect finger movements. This substitution eliminates mechanical components, reducing wear and allowing the navigation function to be integrated into the display surface without requiring separate mechanical structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical input device is integrated directly into the display surface, merging the navigation function with the display area. This consolidation allows the device to utilize the entire display surface for both visualization and input operations, eliminating the need for separate navigation hardware that would reduce the available surface area.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical navigation devices are added to the device, then navigation capability is improved, but reliability decreases due to wear and contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates mechanical navigation components by implementing an optical input system using a light source and optical sensor. This replacement removes the source of mechanical wear and contamination issues, significantly improving the reliability and durability of the navigation function while maintaining ease of operation through finger movement detection.
3Ease of operation
If navigation devices are positioned on the device surface, then navigation function is accessible, but display view is obstructed during use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the navigation input function with the display surface by integrating the optical input device directly into the display area. This integration allows the entire display surface to serve dual purposes: visualization and input, eliminating the need for separate navigation devices that would obstruct the display view.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional surface navigation devices to three-dimensional optical sensing by detecting finger movements through the display surface. This dimensional change allows navigation input to occur without physical obstacles on the display surface, maintaining full display visibility while providing accessible navigation functionality.
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
This solution enhances user interaction by providing efficient navigation without obstructing the display and reduces mechanical wear, allowing for intuitive cursor control and data entry on a compact device.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a light-transmissive tubular or disc-shaped member with optical sensors to detect finger movement
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3D
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.