Touch Sensor Controller Configuration Without Host Device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing touch sensor systems require complex configuration processes that involve host computing devices, which can be inconvenient due to issues like firewall interference, operating system compatibility, and software installation difficulties.

Innovation Solution

A method for configuring touch sensor systems independently of host computing devices, where the touch sensor controller initiates a configuration mode and allows users to set operational settings through specific inputs on the touch panel, such as edge zones or gestures, without needing host device intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If configuration is performed through host computing device software, then operational settings can be configured, but firewall interference, operating system compatibility issues, and software installation difficulties occur

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveConfiguration processVSAvoidSoftware dependency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The configuration functionality is extracted from the host computing device and embedded directly into the touch sensor controller. The controller now includes a configuration mode that can be activated independently, allowing users to configure operational settings without requiring host device software, thereby eliminating firewall interference, OS compatibility issues, and installation difficulties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The touch sensor controller performs configuration independently without requiring external host device intervention. The controller activates configuration mode through specific touch inputs (e.g., pressing corners or edges of the touch panel) and allows users to modify settings directly through the touch interface, making the system self-configurable and reducing dependency on host software.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple communication channels are available for configuration, then flexibility is improved, but security is reduced due to increased attack surfaces

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveConfiguration flexibilityVSAvoidSystem security
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The configuration functionality is extracted from the host computing device communication channel and embedded within the touch sensor controller itself. This eliminates the need for complex software communication between host and controller, reducing the attack surface while maintaining configuration flexibility through direct touch panel interaction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The touch panel itself serves as the intermediary interface for configuration, replacing the need for separate communication channels between host device and controller. Users interact directly with the controller through touch inputs on the panel, which the controller interprets to modify settings, thereby securing the system by limiting communication to the essential touch interface only.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11829556B2Methods for configuring touch sensor system
Publication Date: 2023.11.28 1004335 ONTARIO INC
  • US11829556B2 patent drawing
  • US11829556B2 patent drawing
  • US11829556B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method is provided for configuring a touch sensor controller coupled to a touch panel and a host computing device. The method includes receiving, by the controller, first input for starting a configuration mode of operation. The first input may be received independent of the host computing device. The controller initiates the configuration mode of operation responsive to the first input. The controller receives at least one second input via the touch panel for configuring at least one operational setting of the controller. The method also includes configuring, by the controller, the at least one operational setting according to the received at least one second input.