Pressure-Sensing Joystick Input for Accidental Contact Rejection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing human machine interfaces (HMIs) struggle to distinguish between intended and unintended user inputs, particularly in medical machines like x-ray imaging systems, leading to unsatisfactory images due to accidental contact with joysticks.
Innovation Solution
A user input device with sensors and a controller that detects a specific contact pressure arrangement, such as a pinching action, to generate control signals, independent of the orientation of the contact pressure relative to the device, thereby reducing the likelihood of unintended inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a joystick is used to control x-ray emitters, then the machine can be operated to produce images, but accidental contact may result in unintended movement and unsatisfactory images
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the recognition of user input by analyzing pressure distribution patterns over time. The controller evaluates whether detected pressure corresponds to intentional pinching gestures versus accidental contact, enabling the system to adapt its response based on the nature of the input rather than following a fixed response pattern
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of pressure distribution analysis by detecting the spatial arrangement of pressure points across multiple sensors. By evaluating the pattern, distribution, and configuration of pressure across the joystick surface, the system can distinguish between deliberate user input and accidental contact, thereby improving reliability without sacrificing productivity
2Ease of operation
If sensors detect any contact pressure on the joystick, then user input can be registered, but unintended inputs cannot be distinguished from desired inputs
Solution Approach 1:
The joystick surface is segmented into multiple sensor zones that independently detect pressure. By dividing the detection surface into distinct regions and analyzing the pressure distribution across these segments, the system can identify specific patterns corresponding to intentional pinching gestures versus accidental contact, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring pressure distribution patterns and using this information to determine whether to register an input. The controller analyzes sensor data in real-time and provides feedback control by selectively responding to valid pinching gestures while ignoring accidental contact, thus improving input detection accuracy without reducing responsiveness
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 system accurately detects pinching actions, minimizing unintended inputs and enhancing user input control precision and safety in medical devices.
Implementation Method 1
one or more sensors operative to detect a contact pressure arrangement applied to the body
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A user input device 10 is provided. The user input device 10 includes: a body 12; one or more sensors 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 and 30 operative to detect a contact pressure arrangement 34, 36 and 38 applied to the body 12; and a controller 32 in electronic communication with the one or more sensors 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 and 30. The controller 32 is operative to: determine that the contact pressure arrangement 34, 36 and 38 corresponds to a pinching action; and manipulate a control signal 41 based at least in part on the contact pressure arrangement 34, 36 and 38.