Touch Panel Lead Area as Secondary Input Section
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In portable electronic devices, the increasing amount of information displayed and number of operation keys make it difficult to further downsize the device while maintaining operability.
Innovation Solution
A touch input apparatus with a touch panel that utilizes both a matrix area for two-dimensional input and a lead area for one-dimensional input, allowing the lead area to function as a second operation key part, thereby reducing device size by utilizing previously unused space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the display screen size and number of operation keys are increased to provide more information and functionality, then the device size cannot be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by utilizing the lead area B, which was previously unused, to create a second touch input section. This extends the input functionality from a single two-dimensional matrix area to include a one-dimensional lead area, effectively adding another dimension to the input capability without increasing the overall device footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The touch panel is designed to serve multiple functions: the matrix area A provides two-dimensional touch input for key images, while the lead area B provides one-dimensional touch input for additional operation keys. This multi-functionality allows a single component to support both display and multiple input methods, reducing the need for separate dedicated input components.
2Device complexity
If the lead area is covered by a cover panel to expose only the matrix area, then the device structure is simplified, but the lead area cannot be used as an input section
Solution Approach 1:
The cover panel is segmented into different regions: a light-transmitting panel section that allows viewing of the display through the matrix area, and key display sections that provide tactile feedback for the lead area input. This segmentation allows the cover panel to serve multiple purposes while maintaining both input functionalities.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the cover panel have different properties: the light-transmitting section allows optical transmission for display viewing, while the key display sections provide localized tactile feedback. This local differentiation enables the cover panel to support both visual display and tactile input without compromising either function.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable electronic device includes a touch input apparatus including a touch panel installed on a surface of a display, the touch panel has a lead part projecting at the end of a detecting section, which includes a matrix area A where X value detection lines and Y value detection lines are arranged in matrix, and a lead area B where a plurality of lead lines extending from the matrix area A in the same direction as the X value detection lines to reach the lead part are arranged, wherein a first touch input section is formed by the matrix area A of the touch panel, and a second touch input section is formed by the lead area B.