Touch Input Force Thresholding for Faster OFF Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional input methods using pressure loads, such as half-press and full-press, lead to slow identification of 'OFF' states due to shared thresholds, resulting in poor operability.
Innovation Solution
The input check device employs a pressing force detection system with distinct thresholds (TH1, TH2, and THD) to differentiate between 'ON' and 'OFF' states, allowing early identification of 'OFF' and confirming selection with a second 'ON' state, enhancing operability by using a capacitive touch panel and piezo element for precise force detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the threshold for identifying 'OFF' is the same as the threshold for determining 'ON,' then the input check device can use a simple threshold setting, but it takes time to identify 'OFF' because the pressure load must drop completely, resulting in poor operability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pressure load detection into multiple thresholds (first threshold for ON state, second threshold for OFF state, third threshold for confirmation). This segmentation allows the system to identify OFF state earlier by using a higher second threshold, rather than waiting for complete pressure release. The segmentation of thresholds directly resolves the contradiction by enabling faster OFF identification while maintaining simple threshold setting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter values of thresholds based on the operational state. The second threshold (for OFF identification) is set higher than the first threshold (for ON identification), and the third threshold is used for confirmation. This parameter change strategy allows faster response time for OFF state while maintaining operational simplicity, directly addressing the technical contradiction.
2Ease of operation
If distinct thresholds are used to enable early identification of 'OFF' state, then operability improves, but the threshold setting becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the threshold setting into three distinct segments (first, second, and third thresholds) with clear functional assignments. The first threshold identifies ON state, the second threshold identifies OFF state early, and the third threshold confirms the selection. This segmentation makes the complex multi-threshold system manageable by giving each threshold a specific purpose, thereby reducing the perceived complexity while improving operability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes specific parameter relationships between thresholds to simplify the setting process. The second threshold is set higher than the first threshold, and the third threshold is set between them. These parameter change rules provide a systematic approach to threshold configuration, reducing complexity through standardized parameter relationships while enabling early OFF identification.
3Reliability
If a second input operation is required to confirm selection, then selection accuracy improves, but the number of operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the second threshold to detect when the pressure load drops below a certain level, which serves as a preliminary indication that the user may want to confirm or cancel their selection. This preliminary detection (second threshold) triggers the confirmation phase (third threshold) only when necessary, rather than requiring a full second press operation. This preliminary action reduces the number of operations needed while maintaining selection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the third threshold that confirms whether the user intends to select or cancel based on the pressure load pattern. The system provides feedback by monitoring whether the pressure load rises again (confirmation) or drops further (cancellation). This feedback mechanism improves selection accuracy without requiring a complete second input operation, as the confirmation can be inferred from the pressure pattern itself.
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
This approach enables rapid and accurate identification of 'OFF' states and confirmation of selections, improving the overall operability of the input check device and method.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric element that detects changes of pressure loads on the operating part
Implementation Method 2
a capacitive touch panel that detects a touch operation
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an input check device with excellent operability and an input check method. Then input check device includes a coordinate detection part configured to detect coordinates of a touch operation a user performs on an operating surface when operating an operating part through the operating surface; a pressing force detection part configured to detect a pressing force of the touch operation; and an identifying part configured to determine whether the operating part is ON or OFF based on the pressing force detected in the pressing force detection part, and, after determining that the operating part is switched from ON mode to OFF mode, the identifying part detects a minimum value of the pressing force; and the identifying part determines that the operating part is switched from OFF to ON when, following the detection of the minimum value, the pressing force surpasses a predetermined threshold that is set based on the minimum value and that is greater than the minimum value.