Customizable Touch Control Panel with Removable Labels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current touch control panels are difficult to customize, requiring replacement of the entire panel when button configurations change, and existing solutions with interchangeable labels are inadequate due to poor retention and unappealing visual appearance.
Innovation Solution
A control panel assembly with customizable touch buttons featuring a frame with label compartments and removable labels that can be slid into place, allowing for easy reconfiguration without replacing the entire panel, and a light blocking cover to prevent light bleeding, ensuring clear indicia visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the entire touch control panel is replaced to change button configuration, then the customization is achieved, but the loss of time and increased cost occur
Solution Approach 1:
The touch control panel is divided into separate functional components: a reusable panel structure and interchangeable labels. Each label represents a discrete segment that can be independently replaced without affecting the entire panel, enabling quick reconfiguration of button functions through label substitution alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicia (text and symbols) are extracted from the permanent panel structure and placed on removable labels. This separation allows the functional identification elements to be independently changed without replacing the underlying control panel hardware, significantly reducing reconfiguration time.
2Shape
If traditional engraved indicia on glass is used, then the visual appearance is elegant, but the customization flexibility is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The indicia transition from a static engraved state permanently fixed on the glass to a dynamic state where labels can be removed and replaced. This allows the visual appearance to be changed on demand while maintaining the elegant aesthetic of the original panel design.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of permanently engraving indicia into expensive glass panels, the patent uses relatively inexpensive removable labels that can be replaced as needed. The labels serve as temporary, replaceable carriers for the indicia, reducing the cost and complexity of customization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable labels are added to touch control panels, then the customization is improved, but the label retention and visual appearance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The label structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: adhesive regions for secure attachment, transparent windows for light transmission, and opaque regions for light blocking. This segmentation allows each portion of the label to perform its specific function optimally while working together as a unified component.
Solution Approach 2:
The label acts as an intermediary element between the backlighting system and the user's view. It selectively transmits light through transparent windows while blocking light in other areas, creating clear visual contrast for the indicia without compromising label retention or requiring modification of the underlying panel.
4Loss of information
If light blocking cover is added to prevent light bleeding, then the indicia visibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light blocking function is merged directly into the label structure itself through opaque regions, rather than requiring a separate light blocking cover. This integration eliminates additional components while achieving the same light blocking effect, as the label's opaque portions naturally prevent light bleeding without adding structural complexity.
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 customizable and easily reconfigurable touch buttons with improved label retention and aesthetic appeal, allowing users to change button configurations without replacing the panel, while maintaining a seamless appearance.
Implementation Method 1
The user interface further comprises a plurality of light sources disposed at locations corresponding to the plurality of touch buttons to provide individual backlighting
Data Source
AI summary
A touch control panel assembly defining a plurality of touch buttons each adapted to control at least one function of at least one associated load. The touch control panel assembly comprises a front panel assembly adapted to removably attach to a rear panel assembly. The rear panel assembly comprises a user interface board comprising a plurality of touch sensing fields disposed at locations corresponding to the plurality of touch buttons to detect user input through the front panel. The user interface also comprises a plurality of light sources to provide backlighting to the touch buttons. The front panel assembly comprises a front panel and a frame comprising a frame wall attached to a rear surface of the front panel. The frame wall comprises a plurality of openings extending therethrough at locations corresponding to the touch buttons that define a plurality of label compartments. A plurality of removable labels each adapted to be inserted into and retained by one of the label compartment with indicia disposed thereon to define the respective touch button perceivable through the front surface of the front panel at least when the respective light source is turned on.