Don't forget the user interface
As handheld and portable devices get smaller and more powerful, designers are faced with a daunting task. Not only must their next device design be smaller than the previous generation, they often must also integrate additional functionality.
The outside of the package is almost as important as what's inside.
Beyond the issue of technology integration at the board level is the issue of presenting that functionality in a manner best suited to the user. Especially when integrating systems in a single device, one must keep in mind things such as heft, ergonomics, and haptics.
Heft is the feeling the weight, density, and balance an item gives you when you first pick it up, a kind of “mouth feel” for the hand. A device with heft has good balance and solid construction, creating a feeling of “rightness” when held.
This impression is most markedly apparent the first time an object is picked up, especially if the feel of the item doesn't match our sight-based expectations. The fake Rolex looks fantastic�until you pick it up.
Consider how your favorite pen, or your good power drill, or a nice piece of luggage almost begs you to use it, giving you a feel of power and capability. A well-designed device leaps to the task, be it dialing a phone call, making a hole, or writing your name.
Ergonomics is the next critical factor. If a thing feels great in the hand and balances well, it doesn't work for the user if the controls are in an awkward place.
This isn't only the concern of electronic devices, but applies to any tool that requires a command input of some kind to function. A pocket knife that feels great when open or closed, yet is difficult to transition between the two states, is a poorly designed tool.
This is especially important when creating a device with multiple functions, as control layout is a significant aid to separating functionality in the mind of the user. If it is difficult to use the second layer of features in a device those features will rarely if ever be used.
Haptics is a term that has recently come into vogue in auto design circles. A combination of heft and ergonomics, haptics is the way touch, sight, and control position and operation combine to create the user experience. The importance of presenting user options to a vehicle operator in as clear and intuitive a manner as possible cannot be overemphasized.
This also applies to electronic devices, with examples in almost every application area. An electronics system should present its control functions to the user in such a way that operation can occur as second nature. This applies to applications from video games to telephones to robotic telepresence surgery systems.
Speaking of multiple applications, this month also heralds the launch of our new online solution for those interested in semiconductor applications. Fittingly enough, the site is called Semiconductor Applications (http://www.semiapps.com).
The site is aimed at the engineer who is looking for a solution to fit an application in a specific end market. Links are provided to component news, technical papers, and reference designs, all to aid you in your parts search!
In addition, don't forget to keep an eye out for our Annual Power Supplement, which is full of informative articles and source guides. It is available in print as well as online (with added articles).
Alix L. Paultre
Executive Editor, Special Projects
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