Virtual Control Device for Hygienic Aircraft Lavatory Interfaces

The patent creates a holographic copy of the physical control interface that appears to be a three-dimensional button or switch in space. Users interact with this optical replica rather than the actual physical control, eliminating direct contact with contaminated surfaces while maintaining the familiar tactile interaction pattern through light field manipulation

The patent replaces the mechanical button-pressing system with an optical field interaction system. Instead of physical contact with a mechanical switch, the system uses holographic projection and acoustic field generation to create a virtual interface that responds to gestures or proximity, substituting mechanical interaction with optical and acoustic fields

The patent integrates multiple functions into a single holographic control unit that can display different controls, provide tactile feedback, and respond to various interaction modes (gesture recognition, proximity detection, voice commands). This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate physical controls for each function, managing complexity through integration rather than proliferation of components

The patent introduces an acoustic field generator as an intermediary between the user and the control system. This mediator creates audible tactile feedback that simulates the sensation of pressing physical buttons without requiring physical contact, bridging the gap between touchless interaction and tactile feedback needs