Retroreflective Floating Image Input Display With Dual Sound Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional input display devices using retroreflection lack tactile feedback and interactivity during input operations on floating images.

Innovation Solution

The device outputs distinct sound signals when an object comes into proximity and moves away from a floating image, enhancing interactivity and providing tactile feedback through sound cues.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If only sound output or image change is used for floating image input operation, then the device structure remains simple, but tactile feedback and interactivity are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveinteractivityVSAvoidfeedback mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dual-sound feedback mechanism where the system outputs a first sound signal when an operating object approaches the floating image and a second sound signal when the object moves away. This feedback loop provides tactile confirmation to the user, enhancing interactivity without requiring complex mechanical structures. The sound signals serve as auditory feedback that compensates for the lack of physical tactile response in floating image interfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Ease of operation

If dual sound signals are output for proximity and movement away detection, then tactile feedback is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetactile feedbackVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs periodic sound output triggered by detection events rather than continuous sound generation. The first sound signal is output periodically when the operating object comes into proximity, and the second sound signal is output periodically when the object moves away. This event-driven periodic action reduces energy consumption compared to continuous operation while maintaining effective tactile feedback during interaction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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 solution improves the user's interaction experience by providing high interactivity and tactile feedback, making input operations on floating images more engaging and confirmative.

Implementation Method 1

an optical system such as a light source and a retroreflecting member in a housing 120 having a beam splitter on its surface, and displays the floating image Q above the housing 120

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRetroreflection: Retroreflector

Implementation Method 2

a sensor 130 for detecting proximity of a user's finger to the floating image Q

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectProximity detection:

Data Source

PatentUS20250238198A1Input display device

Publication Date: 2025.07.24 ALPS ALPINE CO LTD

AI summary

An input display device for is provided displaying a floating image by utilizing retroreflection, and includes circuitry configured to detect a first event in which an operating object comes in proximity to the floating image, detect a second event in which the operating object moves away from the floating image, output a first sound signal in response to detection of the first event, and output a second sound signal in response to detection of the second event.