Projector Module Pointer for Touch Gesture Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of smartphones and tablet PCs face difficulties in manipulating these devices while viewing projected images due to the inability to visually confirm input gestures on a limited touch screen, as current technologies do not display the position of the hand or stylus pen on the projected image.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a projector module that allows users to switch between normal mode and touch screen pointer mode, where in the latter mode, the device displays a pointer on the projected image corresponding to touch screen gestures, enabling users to easily manipulate the device while observing the projected image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a projector module is used to project images onto a larger screen, then the viewing area is improved, but the user cannot visually confirm input gestures on the limited touch screen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the touch screen interface by displaying a pointer on the projected image that corresponds to touch screen gestures. This allows users to see their input location on the larger projected screen without needing to look at the small physical touch screen, effectively copying the interaction feedback to the projection surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a pointer as an intermediary element that bridges the touch screen and the projected image. The pointer acts as a visual mediator that translates touch screen coordinates to the projection surface, allowing users to confirm gesture positions on the larger screen while maintaining accurate touch input control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the touch screen size is kept small for portability, then device portability is improved, but the user experience for viewing images is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the display from a two-dimensional confined touch screen to a larger two-dimensional projection surface by utilizing external space (walls, screens, or other surfaces) as the display medium. This dimensional extension allows the same device to provide both portable small-screen functionality and large-screen viewing capability.
3Device complexity
If gesture input is implemented without visual feedback on the projected image, then device complexity is reduced, but user manipulation accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a visual copy of the touch input location by rendering a pointer on the projected image at the corresponding position. This copying approach provides visual feedback without requiring complex additional hardware, maintaining system simplicity while significantly improving input accuracy and user confidence.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for controlling an electronic device that executes and displays an application is provided. The method includes displaying an execution screen of the application on a touch screen, projecting and displaying a projection image corresponding to the execution screen of the application, displaying a pointer on the projection image, and moving and displaying the pointer on the projection image to correspond to a gesture detected on the touch screen.