Tilt-Angle Control for Single-Handed Electronic Device Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current electronic devices, such as smartphones and tablets, require both hands to operate, especially when searching and playing image files, which can be inconvenient in situations like crowded public transportation.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a gravity sensor to detect tilt angles and a control unit that performs operations based on these angles, allowing single-handed control of electronic devices for user interface and audio/video playback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If touch interface operation is used, then user can interact with electronic device, but both hands are required for operation which reduces convenience in certain circumstances

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconvenience of operationVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical touch interface operation system with a gravity sensor-based detection system. Instead of requiring manual touch operations on the screen, the device detects tilt angles through gravity sensors and automatically performs corresponding operations, substituting mechanical hand operations with physical orientation detection

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

Solution Approach 2:

The device performs operations automatically based on detected tilt angles without requiring continuous user input. Once the device detects a specific tilt angle, it autonomously executes the corresponding operation (such as switching between images or adjusting playback), making the device self-serve the user's intent without requiring both hands for continuous manipulation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If both hands are required for operation, then precise control can be achieved, but operation becomes inconvenient in crowded environments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational convenienceVSAvoidcontrol precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the control parameter from touch position coordinates to tilt angle measurements. By detecting the angle at which the device is tilted relative to the horizontal plane, the system provides precise control through orientation parameters rather than manual positioning, maintaining control accuracy while enabling single-handed operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Enables single-handed operation of electronic devices, enhancing convenience by allowing users to control devices through tilt angles and setting personalized tilt angle combinations for improved usability.

Implementation Method 1

a gravity sensor, configured to detect a first tilt angle between the electronic device and a reference plane

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS9563345B2Electronic device and method for controlling the same
Publication Date: 2017.02.07 MEDIATEK INC
  • US9563345B2 patent drawing
  • US9563345B2 patent drawing
  • US9563345B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for controlling an electronic device is provided. The method includes detecting a first tilt angle between the electronic device and a reference plane, and controlling the electronic device to perform an operating according to the first tilt angle. The operation is associated with a user interface operation or an audio/video playback operation.