Proximity Input Device Using Capacitive Detection for Virtual Keyboard
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional input devices, such as keyboards, are bulky and lack stability when used in non-traditional settings, and on-screen keyboards are cumbersome due to reliance on mice or trackpads, leading to inefficient typing experiences.
Innovation Solution
A proximity-based user input device featuring a processor, display, and detection surfaces that generate signals for virtual keyboard interaction, allowing users to input data through proximity and touch gestures without the need for a physical surface, enabling comfortable and stable typing in various environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional external keyboard is used, then typing functionality is provided, but the device becomes bulky and unstable when placed on non-flat surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical keyboard structure with a capacitive touch surface that detects proximity and contact of conductive objects (fingers). This eliminates the need for physical keys and mechanical switches, allowing the keyboard to be implemented as a flexible, lightweight membrane that can conform to various surfaces including the user's lap, thereby maintaining typing functionality while improving portability and stability on non-traditional surfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the dimension of flexibility and conformability to the keyboard by using a thin, flexible capacitive touch membrane instead of a rigid mechanical structure. This allows the keyboard to adapt to three-dimensional surfaces such as the user's lap or curved tables, transforming the keyboard from a fixed, flat device into one that can be positioned in multiple orientations and locations
2Adaptability or versatility
If an on-screen keyboard is used, then device portability is improved, but typing efficiency decreases due to reliance on mouse or track pad
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a capacitive touch surface as an intermediary between the user and the on-screen keyboard. This physical interface layer allows users to interact with virtual keys through direct touch or proximity gestures, eliminating the need for mouse or track pad manipulation. The capacitive surface translates finger movements into precise key selections, maintaining the portability benefits of on-screen keyboards while restoring typing efficiency through direct tactile interaction
3Volume of moving object
If a compact keyboard design is attempted, then device size is reduced, but functionality and stability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal input surface that can detect multiple types of interactions: proximity detection for hover-based navigation, light contact for key selection, and firm pressure for confirmation or alternative functions. This multi-functional capacitive touch surface replaces numerous separate physical keys with a single flexible membrane that can interpret different touch intensities and gestures, maintaining full keyboard functionality while dramatically reducing device volume and weight
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 proximity-based input device provides a stable and efficient typing experience by allowing users to interact with virtual keyboards using intuitive gestures, improving usability and comfort in settings where traditional keyboards are impractical.
Implementation Method 1
the input detection unit is configured to detect the presence of a target in proximity to a detection surface and any movement or breaking thereof
Implementation Method 2
The input detection unit might also detect contact on the detection surface and any movement or breakage in movement thereof
Data Source
AI summary
A proximity-based input device is disclosed. The proximity-based input device may include a display device, a detection surface, an input detection unit, and a processor. The input detection unit detects the presence of a target in proximity to the detection surface and generates a corresponding proximity signal. The input detection unit also detects contact on the detection surface and any movement or breakage in movement of the contact, and generates a corresponding touch signal. The processor may display an object on the display device, displays a virtual image of the target in proximity to the detection surface on the display device with reference to the proximity signal, highlights the object on the display device in response to the virtual image of the target overlapping the object, and selects the object in response to receiving the touch signal from the input detection unit when the object is highlighted.