Pocket Command Input Using Acoustic Attenuation Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable computing devices face challenges in command input methods, particularly when in a pocket of clothing, as direct screen contact is impossible and voice or gesture commands can be inconvenient in certain environments.
Innovation Solution
A portable computing device equipped with a microphone to detect sounds, an analysis unit to analyze sound attenuation in a predetermined frequency, and a command input unit to input commands based on the analysis, allowing for command input through sound attenuation and tapping operations without direct screen contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a touch sensor is used to detect screen touching or tapping, then direct contact with the screen is required for command input, but this makes it impossible to operate the device when placed in a pocket of clothing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical touch contact system with an acoustic detection system. Instead of requiring physical contact between the finger and screen, the system uses a microphone to detect acoustic waves generated by tapping or swiping motions on or near the device. This substitution allows command input without direct screen contact, enabling operation when the device is in a pocket.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sound waves as an intermediary medium between the user's input action and the device's command recognition system. The acoustic waves carry information about the user's tapping or swiping gestures, allowing the device to interpret commands indirectly through sound rather than direct mechanical contact.
2Ease of operation
If voice recognition is used for command input, then hands-free operation is enabled, but this becomes troubling in environments with other people present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the voice recognition acoustic system with a different acoustic detection approach that listens for specific mechanical impact sounds (tapping or swiping) rather than vocal commands. This substitution maintains the hands-free benefit while avoiding the social inconvenience of voice recognition in public settings, as tapping sounds are less intrusive than voice commands.
3Ease of operation
If gesture detection with motion sensors is used, then device motion can be detected for input, but this requires the user to hold the device in hand which is inconvenient in limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the motion sensor-based gesture detection system with an acoustic detection system using a microphone. Instead of requiring the device to be held and moved through space to generate detectable motion, the system detects acoustic waves from tapping or swiping actions. This substitution eliminates the need to hold the device, enabling operation when the device is placed in a pocket or other limited space location.
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 command input from within a pocket of clothing without disturbing others, providing a convenient and efficient method for controlling the device by analyzing sound attenuation and tapping operations.
Implementation Method 1
a microphone configured to detect a sound
Implementation Method 2
an analysis unit configured to analyze attenuation of the detected sound in a predetermined frequency band
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for inputting commands to portable computing devices are disclosed. One method includes detecting a sound, analyzing attenuation of the detected sound in a predetermined frequency, and inputting a command to a portable computing device based on analysis of the detected sound. Apparatus and computer program products implementing the methods are also disclosed.