One-Handed Touchscreen Control via Side Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large-size touch screens on mobile devices become inconvenient for users, especially when using public transportation, as they require both hands to operate, leading to difficulties in accessing application shortcuts located outside the user's reach with one hand.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses sensors located on the side of the touch screen to detect first and second touches, determining a target region on the user interface and moving operable objects within that region to a specific location, allowing users to easily access and interact with shortcuts using one hand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the touch screen size is expanded to provide more display area and application shortcuts, then the display capacity and functionality are improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates when using one hand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new dimension for interaction by placing sensors on the side edges of the touch screen rather than requiring finger touches on the screen surface itself. This allows users to initiate operable object movement by pressing side sensors with their thumb or finger while holding the device, effectively adding a lateral control dimension that complements the vertical screen space.
Solution Approach 2:
The side sensors act as intermediaries between the user and the operable objects on the screen. Instead of directly touching operable objects that may be out of reach, users press the side sensors which then mediate the movement of operable objects to accessible positions on the screen.
2Adaptability or versatility
If application shortcuts are placed throughout the entire screen area to maximize accessibility, then the versatility of operation is improved, but the risk of accidental touches increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the primary operation initiation function from the screen surface itself and relocates it to the side sensors. This separation allows the screen to display operable objects throughout the area for versatility, while the side sensors provide a dedicated, controlled entry point that reduces accidental activation.
3Productivity
If the touch screen is made large to reduce the need for frequent device handling, then the productivity is improved, but the stability of device handling deteriorates when using public transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control functions by separating the operation initiation (side sensors) from the display area (touch screen). This allows the device to maintain a large screen for productivity while using the compact side sensors for stable, one-handed control during transportation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a user interface and an electronic device using the method are provided. The electronic device has a touch screen that displays the user interface, and the user interface includes at least one operable object. The method includes: detecting a first touch through a sensor located on a side of the touch screen to obtain a first touch signal corresponding to the first touch; if the first touch signal continuously exists, detecting a second touch through the touch screen to obtain a second touch signal corresponding to the second touch; determining a target region on the user interface according to the first touch signal and the second touch signal; moving the at least one operable object in the target region to a specific region on the user interface at a specific speed.