Proximity Detection for Multi-Object Hovering Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current touch screen technologies lack the ability to effectively utilize the space above the input surface for user inputs, limiting the versatility of user interactions, especially in 3D content display and interaction scenarios.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that utilize a proximity detection system to detect multiple objects in close proximity to an input surface, allowing for the activation of a multi-object hovering input mode where specific actions are associated with each object, enabling new interaction possibilities without physical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional touch screen technology is used, then the device structure remains simple, but the user interface versatility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the interaction space from the 2D touch screen surface to the 3D space above it by detecting objects in close proximity. This allows users to interact with the device by hovering objects (such as fingers or styluses) above the screen without physical contact, thereby enhancing user interface versatility while maintaining relatively simple device structure through existing proximity detection capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If only single object input is supported, then the input system remains simple, but the interaction options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the input system to perform multiple functions by detecting and responding to different numbers of objects in proximity. The same proximity detection mechanism supports single-object interactions (basic hovering), dual-object interactions (scissors gesture for cutting/pasting), and multi-object interactions (selecting multiple items), thereby providing diverse interaction options without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The input system dynamically adapts its behavior based on the number of objects detected in proximity. When one object is detected, single-object interaction mode is activated; when two objects are detected, dual-object interaction mode is activated with specific actions assigned to each object; when multiple objects are detected, multi-object selection mode is activated. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to provide appropriate interaction options for each scenario without requiring complex pre-programming for all possible cases.
3Adaptability or versatility
If proximity detection for multiple objects is implemented, then input capabilities are expanded, but the detection precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection space above the touch screen into multiple proximity zones (first close proximity, second close proximity, and third close proximity at greater distance). Each zone serves a specific function: the first and second zones detect individual objects for single-object and dual-object interactions respectively, while the third zone detects additional objects for multi-object selection. This spatial segmentation allows the system to distinguish between different numbers of objects and their positions without requiring extremely high precision detection, as each zone has a defined purpose and distance range.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for controlling proximity detection based user interface functions. In response to detection of simultaneous presence of a first object and a second object in close proximity to the input surface, an input mode may be activated, in which input mode a first action is associated with an input by the first object and a second action is associated with an input by the second object.