Proximity Sensor Copy Paste Mechanism

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for copying and pasting content on computing devices require multiple touch operations, which can be cumbersome, especially for users with small displays or those frequently performing editing operations.

Innovation Solution

The use of a proximity sensor allows for simplified content copying and pasting by detecting an input tool within its sensing range, enabling automatic copy and paste operations without the need for explicit menu interactions, using gestures such as long press or double tap motions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional touch-based copy and paste operations are used, then the device can perform content copying and pasting, but the operation requires multiple touch inputs which increases operational complexity and time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of copy and paste operationVSAvoidtime required for copy and paste operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical touch-based operation system with a proximity sensor-based detection system. Instead of requiring physical contact with the touchscreen to initiate copy and paste operations, the system detects the proximity of input tools (such as stylus or finger) to the screen and automatically triggers the desired operations, eliminating the need for multiple touch inputs and reducing operational time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service operation by automatically detecting user intent through proximity sensing and executing copy or paste operations without requiring explicit menu selections or confirmations. The device serves itself by interpreting proximity patterns and automatically performing the appropriate action, reducing the number of steps the user must manually complete

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If proximity sensor is used to detect input tool, then the copy and paste operation is simplified, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensing components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of copy and paste operationVSAvoiddevice complexity with proximity sensor
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The proximity sensor is integrated into the existing touchscreen device architecture, serving multiple functions including copy initiation, paste triggering, and gesture recognition. This multi-functionality approach allows the additional sensing component to justify its presence by providing enhanced operational capabilities across multiple device functions rather than being a single-purpose addition

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the proximity sensing capability with the existing touchscreen control system, combining two input detection methods into a unified interface. The proximity sensor data is integrated with the touchscreen controller to create a cohesive input system that leverages both technologies working together, reducing the need for separate processing paths and minimizing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

This approach simplifies the copy and paste processes, reducing the number of touch inputs required and providing a more intuitive user experience, particularly beneficial for users with small displays or those frequently using electronic whiteboards.

Implementation Method 1

an input tool within a sensing range of the proximity sensor, that is arranged in the computing device to sense an object even if the object does not touch the touch panel, is sensed by using the proximity sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectProximity sensing: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS11556241B2Apparatus and method of copying and pasting content in a computing device
Publication Date: 2023.01.17 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US11556241B2 patent drawing
  • US11556241B2 patent drawing
  • US11556241B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of copying content in a computing device includes detecting a gesture of an input tool which selects content to be copied that is displayed on a display of the computing device while the input tool operates within a sensing range of a proximity sensor of the computing device, and automatically copying the selected content to a clipboard in response to detecting removal of the input tool from within the sensing range of the proximity sensor.