Automotive Touch Screen Dynamic Control Overlay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multifunction control devices in motor vehicles fail to provide intuitive operation when information data, such as maps or video, is displayed in full-screen mode, as users lack visible controls to navigate the device without interrupting the data display.
Innovation Solution
A method and device utilizing a position-sensitive sensor unit to detect user interactions, allowing operation without visible controls by superimposing transparent operating elements over full-screen data, which can be triggered by touch or proximity, enabling contactless actuation and maintaining continuous data display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the entire display screen area is used for reproducing information data in full-screen mode, then the display area is maximized, but no operating elements are visible on the display image
Solution Approach 1:
The operating elements are displayed dynamically only when needed - when the sensor unit detects user approach or touching actions. During normal full-screen mode, the entire display area shows information data without overlays. This dynamic appearance/disappearance resolves the contradiction by providing operating elements only when user interaction is detected.
Solution Approach 2:
A sensor unit acts as an intermediary between the user and the display system. It detects user approach or touching actions and triggers the display of operating elements accordingly. This intermediary mechanism enables the system to switch between full-screen mode and operating mode based on user intent, resolving the contradiction between maximizing display area and providing visible controls.
2Ease of operation
If operating elements are displayed on the display screen during full-screen mode, then operation is enabled, but the information data display is interrupted or reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The operating elements are displayed dynamically only when the sensor unit detects user approach or touching actions. During normal full-screen mode, the entire display area shows information data without overlays. This dynamic appearance/disappearance resolves the contradiction by providing operating elements only when user interaction is detected.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating elements are displayed with transparency when superimposed on the information data. This transparency allows the information data to remain visible beneath the operating elements, resolving the contradiction by enabling both operation and information display simultaneously through optical property changes.
3Area of stationary object
If traditional touch screen operation is used without visible controls, then full-screen display is maintained, but intuitive operation is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit performs preliminary detection of user approach or touching actions before the user actually needs to interact with operating elements. By detecting user intent in advance, the system can prepare and display relevant operating elements just in time, resolving the contradiction between maintaining full-screen display and enabling intuitive operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor unit provides continuous feedback about user presence and interaction state to the display system. This feedback mechanism enables the system to adaptively display operating elements based on real-time user behavior, resolving the contradiction by making the system responsive to user needs without requiring visible controls throughout.
4Ease of operation
If additional actuation elements are added to enable operation during full-screen mode, then operation is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The display screen serves multiple functions: it displays information data in full-screen mode, detects user interactions via the sensor unit, and displays operating elements when needed. This multi-functionality of the display system eliminates the need for separate dedicated actuation elements, resolving the contradiction by enabling operation capability without increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The display screen and sensor unit work together as a self-service system that automatically detects user needs and provides appropriate operating elements. No additional external actuation elements are required because the display system itself performs both display and interaction detection functions, resolving the contradiction by enabling operation without adding 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 intuitive operation of multifunction control devices in full-screen mode by allowing users to interact with the device without interrupting the data display, using the entire screen for information and allowing context-related functions, reducing the need for additional actuation elements and enhancing user experience.
Implementation Method 1
at least one position-sensitive sensor unit, which detects a position of the operating device and/or body part
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
Claimed is a process to operate a multi-functional automotive touch-screen display (1) system coupled to a position-sensitive sensor, and replaying information e.g. pictures and images on the screen. In full-play operating mode the screen devoid of touch-screen controls. The sensor detects the proximity or presence of a hand on the screen to reveal the touch screen controls. Also claimed is a commensurate touch-screen control unit.