Touch-Sensitive Surface Data Selection via Geometric Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data selection methods on touch-sensitive surfaces are often time-consuming and inconvenient, especially when selecting from large data ranges, as they require navigating through lists or using small selection keys, which can be cumbersome and space-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that uses a touch-sensitive surface to sense a first touch position, track movement to a second position, and calculate geometric parameters such as distance, angle, or arc length to effect data selection within a data range, allowing for rapid and space-efficient data selection by adjusting the step width based on these parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If data selection is performed using traditional methods (lists or small keys), then data can be selected from large data ranges, but the operation becomes time-consuming and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of interaction from discrete key presses or list navigation to continuous touch movement. By detecting the distance moved by the user's finger on the touch-sensitive surface, the system translates physical movement distance directly into data selection steps, enabling rapid navigation through large data ranges proportional to the swipe distance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical input methods (keypad, mouse clicks, list scrolling) with touch-sensitive surface interaction. The mechanical movement of a finger across the touch surface is directly converted into data selection commands, eliminating the need for discrete key presses or cursor-based navigation through lists.
2Measurement precision
If extensive lists or small keys are used for data selection, then data selection accuracy is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of data selection from complex visual interfaces (lists, keys) and implements it through a simple touch gesture. By removing the need for displayed lists or physical keys, the system achieves data selection accuracy through touch movement detection alone, significantly simplifying the interface while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The touch-sensitive surface itself performs the data selection function without requiring additional display elements or input components. The surface detects touch positions and calculates movement distances to determine selected data, making the selection interface self-sufficient and eliminating the need for separate lists or keys.
3Productivity
If predefined step width selection is used, then data selection can be automated, but the selection flexibility and user control are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the step width dynamic by basing it on the actual distance the user swipes across the touch surface. Instead of a fixed step width, the system calculates the selection increment proportionally to the physical movement distance, allowing users to select data in small or large steps depending on how far they move their finger, thus providing both speed and flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A data selection system and a method for data selection by means of a touch-sensitive surface are disclosed. The method comprises sensing a first touch position on the touch-sensitive surface and tracking a movement from the first touch position to a second touch position. The method additionally comprises calculating at least one geometric parameter from the first touch position, the second touch position and a reference position, and effecting a data selection within a data range in dependence on the geometric parameter.