Force-sensing HMI technology delivers competitive advantage

Peratech has launched its QTC-based EDGE force-sensing solution that provides UX differentiation and functionality for smartphones, wearables, and tablets. The company's latest HMI solution uses the edges of a device to give what it believes is a fundamentally better user experience. Thin sensors with their patented QTC technology are mechanically integrated into key areas of a smartphone to capture a user’s ergonomic finger movements, natural single-handed grip, intuitive presses and squeezes to control key functions. The solution can be used to simplify mute, volume, zoom, sleep, scroll, and emergency-call functions while enhancing one-handed usability. This indicates less distraction, fewer dropped phones, and fewer false touches while typing. The solutions even works while the user has wet hands or is wearing gloves. By giving a quality force-sensing user experience with the edge of a device, the company allows designers to remove physical button openings and realise a thinner, more contoured device with a rigid-metal chassis. This indicates phones can be lower-cost, more durable, and more moisture-proof. Peratech’s EDGE solution works even with a protective case in place. Jon Stark, CEO of Peratech commented that, despite seeing poor force implementations struggling to detect force through the phone’s rigid chassis sidewall, there is demand for a force-sensing solution that works. “Our customers tell us that our EDGE solution in combination with embedded software development tools are a real game changer in product development speed and ability to create value-added user experiences. While our initial market focus has been smartphones, we expect the technology to be used in wearables and tablets as device manufacturers look to implement a highly-intuitive and consistent HMI across all devices while lowering SKUs, complexity and cost.” Mobile World Congress, 7O70MR, Hall 7, Row O