Side Touch Panel for One-Handed Operation Without Display Obstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional touch panels integrated with display screens hinder viewing and require both hands for operation, as they are limited by objects on the screen and inefficiently utilize side controls.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a touch-sensitive side panel system with sensors and controllers that allow one-handed operation by detecting and interpreting touch actions on side panels, enabling 3D-like interaction and updating the display accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single touch panel integrated with a display screen is employed on the main plane, then the device has a compact structure, but viewing of the display screen is hindered by objects thereon and both hands are required for operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the touch panel from the traditional 2D main plane to include 3D side surfaces. Sensors are disposed on side surfaces of the device body, creating a three-dimensional touch interface that allows one-handed operation while not obstructing the display screen viewing area.
2Adaptability or versatility
If scroll wheels or buttons are employed on the sides of the device, then the device has extended control capability, but the scroll wheels or buttons are not efficiently utilized with limited functions
Solution Approach 1:
The side touch panel sensors can detect multiple types of user interactions including touch position, touch pressure, and sliding gestures. The system framework provides registration information for function handlers that map different action types to various functions, enabling the side panel to serve multiple purposes such as volume adjustment, media playback control, and navigation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system framework dynamically determines action types based on sensor signals and drives appropriate function handlers. The side touch panel can adapt its functionality based on the detected gesture type, providing dynamic control capabilities that enhance both versatility and ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If both hands are required for operation on the main touch panel, then the touch panel provides comprehensive control, but operation becomes inconvenient for users
Solution Approach 1:
The touch interface is segmented into multiple independent sensing zones: the main plane touch panel and side surface touch panels. Each zone can be operated independently, allowing one-handed operation on the side panels while the main display remains fully accessible for viewing.
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
Enhances user convenience by allowing single-handed manipulation and efficient utilization of side touch panels for various controls, such as volume adjustment, media playback, and navigation, without obstructing the display.
Implementation Method 1
The first sensor is a resistive or capacitive type sensor
Implementation Method 2
The first sensor is a resistive or capacitive type sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A touch sensitive apparatus for providing side touch panel as part of man-machine interface is provided. A front panel are disposed on the front surface. A first sensor being a resistive or capacitive type sensor is disposed on or under one of plurality of side surfaces for sensing a touch thereon. A first sensor controller coupling the first sensor is for generating one or more signals in response to the touch on the first sensor. An application module provides a plurality of applications each comprising a plurality of function handlers. A system framework provides registration information for each function handler associated with an action type on the first sensor, determines an action type in terms of the signal(s) from the first sensor controller, and drives one function handler to perform a specific function according to the determined action type and the registration information.