Touch Input Device with Pressure Sensors for Portable Computers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional notebook keyboards are cumbersome, prone to dust accumulation, and occupy valuable space due to their size and the presence of hot keys, limiting portability and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A touch input device with a touch module, switch, and controller that allows users to switch between different touch modes, such as a standard keyboard and multimedia patterns, using pressure sensors to sense user actions and control the touch module to perform various functions without the need for a physical keyboard or hot keys.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional keyboard is used for input, then input functionality is provided, but the device becomes complicated and large in size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the input functionality from the traditional keyboard structure and implements it through a touch-sensitive surface with pressure sensors. The keyboard keys are replaced by a flat touch panel that detects pressure inputs, eliminating the need for mechanical key structures while preserving input capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical keyboard system with an electronic touch-sensitive system. Pressure sensors detect finger presses on the touch panel and convert them into electrical signals, substituting mechanical key actuation with electronic pressure detection
2Ease of operation
If a traditional keyboard is used for input, then input functionality is provided, but the device becomes large in size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the physical keyboard structure and extracts only the input detection function, implementing it through a thin touch panel with pressure sensors that occupies minimal space while providing comprehensive input functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The touch panel serves multiple functions: it acts as both the display surface and the input interface. The same flat surface used for viewing content also detects pressure inputs for typing and other input operations, eliminating the need for a separate keyboard area
3Ease of operation
If spaces between keys are provided, then key input is enabled, but dust accumulation occurs and cleaning becomes inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical keys with a continuous flat touch panel surface. Pressure sensors beneath the panel detect inputs without requiring physical key structures or gaps, creating a seamless surface that prevents dust accumulation while maintaining input functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The touch panel displays visual indicators (such as highlighted key positions or patterns) to show active input areas and provide feedback to users, replacing the physical elevation and spacing of traditional keys with optical signals
4Adaptability or versatility
If hot keys are disposed on the keyboard, then multimedia operation is enabled, but the keyboard volume increases and structural volume inside the shell decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The touch panel integrates multiple input modes including standard keyboard input, multimedia controls, and customizable functions all within the same flat surface area. Different input patterns and pressure levels on the same surface provide diverse functionality without requiring additional physical space
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the touch panel's functionality based on context and user input patterns. The same physical area can serve as keyboard, multimedia remote, or other input modes depending on the active application and user interaction, maximizing versatility within fixed space
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 thinner and more easily maintainable portable computers by allowing users to switch touch modes based on their actions, reducing the need for manual switching and enabling customizable input methods, thus enhancing user convenience and portability.
Implementation Method 1
The switch could comprise two pressure sensors located on both sides of the touch module respectively. The pressure sensors are suitable for sensing pressure simultaneously or individually in order to control the touch module to perform the first touch function or the second touch function.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention discloses a portable computer comprising a host, a touch input device disposed in the host, and a displayer pivoted on the host. The touch input device comprises a touch module, a switch and a controller. The controller is coupled to the touch module and the switch. The touch module is for performing a first touch function or a second touch function and for displaying a first touch pattern or a second touch pattern correspondingly. The switch drives the controller to control the touch module to perform the first touch function or the second touch function and control the touch module to display the first touch pattern or the second touch pattern correspondingly.