Switchable Touch Interface With Recessed Case Region
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional touch screens on compact handheld devices are inconvenient due to small menu item sizes and the encumbering case design, leading to inefficient user interface navigation and potential accidental selections when using fingers instead of styluses.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a touch display that includes a touch sensing means, position detecting module, and processing module to activate, switch, and close user interfaces based on the position and moving direction of a touch input tool, allowing for direct finger operation without menu item selection and minimizing case interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the case is closely attached around the display area to provide structural support, then the device structure is stable, but the case encumbers the operation of input tools and may hurt the user's finger
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful function of the case by creating a recessed region that removes the encumbering portion of the case from the touch display area. This allows the case to maintain its structural support function while eliminating the interference with input tool operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension solution by creating a recessed region that changes the height profile of the case around the touch display. This dimensional change allows the case to step back and not interfere with finger or stylus operation while maintaining overall structural integrity.
2Quantity of substance
If menu items are made smaller to display more function options on limited screen space, then the quantity of displayed functions increases, but the user interface becomes harder to operate accurately with fingers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic user interface behavior where the interface responds differently based on the input tool detected. When a finger is detected, the system provides finger-friendly interactions such as larger selection targets or alternative navigation methods, while maintaining the ability to display comprehensive function lists.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection mechanism that identifies whether a finger or stylus is being used as the input tool. This intermediary information allows the system to adapt the user interface accordingly, providing accurate menu selection for stylus users while offering finger-friendly alternatives for touch users.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the non-display area is covered by the case to protect the device, then the device structure is complete, but the touch sensing capability is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the non-display area from under the case coverage, allowing it to remain exposed and maintain its touch sensing capability. The case is designed to cover only the essential structural portions while leaving the touch-sensitive non-display area accessible for additional input operations.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device with switchable user interface and an electronic device with accessible touch operation are provided. The electronic device with switchable user interface includes a display, a touch sensing means, a position detecting module and a processing module. The touch sensing means is used for sensing a touch of an input tool. The position detecting module is used for determining whether or not the touch is generated on a specific area of the touch sensing means. If the touch is generated on the specific area, the position detecting module determines whether the position of the touch is varied. The processing module coupled to the position detecting module is used for activating a user interface on the display if there is a position variation of the touch. Consequently, the convenience of operating the electronic device is improved.