Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme

Abstract

The invention relates to a Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme, and belongs to the technical field of Chinese input software and hardware of computing equipment and the like. In order to solve the problems that when Chinese and English punctuation marks are switched in Chinese input at present, full-angle and half-angle states need to be switched frequently, then input is tedious and prone to making mistakes, a standard keyboard is not compatible with input of Chinese pinyin characters with tones to enhance the Chinese pinyin input efficiency, and the like, the Chinese pinyin input efficiency is improved based on a standard QWERTY keyboard, and the Chinese pinyin input efficiency is improved. The full-angle Chinese punctuation mark keys and / or the Chinese pinyin tone combination keys and other keys are expanded, and full-angle Chinese punctuation marks and / or Chinese pinyin characters with tones can be input more quickly. The convenience of Chinese input can be effectively enhanced, and a user can learn and use the method easily.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of Chinese input method of computing device, Chinese input device, and the like, in particular to a Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme. BACKGROUND

[0002] With the increasing influence of Chinese language in the global scope, the demand for international communication is increasing. When using Chinese and English mixed input, users require to improve the inconvenience and errors caused by frequent switching of Chinese and English full-width and half-width punctuation marks. When using Chinese pinyin input method to input Chinese, the requirement for using Chinese pinyin characters with tones to optimize Chinese character coding, reduce the rate of homophones, and improve the efficiency of Chinese pinyin input is increasing.

[0003] Currently, the Chinese input method, Chinese input software and hardware used on the market implement the following methods for full-width Chinese punctuation mark input: (1) Common Chinese pinyin and five-stroke input methods on the market Method: Compatible with standard QWERTY hardware keyboard layout, when inputting Chinese and English mixedly, switching Chinese and English full-width and half-width punctuation mark input, the SHIFT key and the like defined in the input method are used to switch the full-width and half-width input state, or the screen user interface is operated to switch, and then the corresponding Chinese and English punctuation mark characters are input through the half-width English punctuation mark keys in the standard QWERTY keyboard, or the screen keyboard is opened to click and input; Disadvantage: For Chinese and English mixed input scenarios, frequent switching between half-width and full-width is often required, which is tedious and prone to errors.

[0004] (2) Chinese keyboard and Chinese character phonetic code input method, patent number: CN1258037A Method: Based on the standard QWERTY keyboard layout, some keys in the original layout are redefined as full-width Chinese punctuation mark keys, which can directly input full-width Chinese punctuation marks; Disadvantage: The redefined full-width Chinese punctuation mark keys are arranged in the upper part of the entire keyboard layout, and the arrangement order and position of commonly used Chinese punctuation marks such as comma, period, and question mark are not optimized. Punctuation marks are frequently used in Chinese input, and should be arranged in the lower part of the keyboard layout, close to the position of half-width English punctuation marks in the original standard QWERTY keyboard layout, and should be optimized according to the frequency of use. Therefore, the keyboard layout used in this method will cause inconvenience for users to learn and apply.

[0005] (3) Chinese input technology of double-bit Chinese computer keyboard, patent number: CN1023843C Method: Not using the standard QWERTY keyboard layout, custom full-width Chinese punctuation mark key and its arrangement, each custom key represents 3 Chinese punctuation mark characters, typing method agreement is repeated multiple times, to rotate one of the full-width Chinese punctuation mark characters; Disadvantages: typing method is too cumbersome, redundant, may cause more wear and tear on the keyboard hardware, and may affect durability.

[0006] (4) A method for inputting punctuation marks on a Chinese keyboard, Patent No.: CN101408806A Method: Based on the standard QWERTY keyboard layout, no custom keys are expanded, and the input method is agreed to double-click the half-width English punctuation mark keys in the standard QWERTY keyboard, which can be converted into full-width Chinese punctuation mark input by related software and hardware. Disadvantages: The typing method is relatively cumbersome, not 1-key input, and may cause more wear and tear on the keyboard hardware, affecting durability and input efficiency.

[0007] (5) Chinese-English intelligent network keyboard and ring key parallel input method, Patent No.: CN102375648A Method: Not using the standard QWERTY keyboard layout, custom full-width Chinese punctuation mark key and its arrangement, can directly enter full-width Chinese punctuation mark; Disadvantages: Designed specifically for screen keyboards and small-screen devices, not suitable for professional input scenarios.

[0008] The Chinese input method, Chinese input software and hardware currently used on the market for inputting Chinese pinyin characters with tones to improve the input efficiency of Chinese pinyin input method are implemented in the following ways: (1) Common Chinese pinyin and five-stroke input methods on the market Method: Generally, Chinese pinyin characters with tones are not used directly as Chinese character input encoding, but only the Chinese pinyin characters without tones are used, and other information such as word groups and character shapes are used as Chinese character encoding, or the tone code is used as a separate character encoding. Disadvantages: High rate of homophonic redundancy, especially in single Chinese character or short word group input, because the tone is not considered, the homophonic redundancy is higher, and the input is cumbersome and redundant.

[0009] (2) Chinese keyboard and Chinese character phonetic code input method, Patent No.: CN1258037A Method: Based on the standard QWERTY keyboard layout, some keys in the original layout are redefined as Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys. The redefined Chinese Pinyin vowel character key + Chinese Pinyin tone combination key can be pressed together to input Chinese Pinyin characters with tone in one step, thereby reducing the homonym rate of Chinese Pinyin input and improving the input speed. Disadvantages: The redesigned keyboard layout includes both simple vowels and numerous compound vowels in Chinese Pinyin. Users need to be familiar with all the keys, which presents a significant learning and usage challenge.

[0010] (3) A Chinese input method and a keyboard based on the input method, patent number: CN118244904A Method: Instead of using the standard QWERTY keyboard layout, a custom Chinese Pinyin tone selection key and its arrangement are used, requiring multiple key combinations, and Chinese Pinyin characters with tones are entered using a custom key sequence encoding. Disadvantages: The keyboard layout is completely redefined for typing, which makes it difficult for users to learn and use. It only optimizes the input of Chinese Pinyin and fails to adequately support the input of English, numbers and punctuation marks.

[0011] (4) Standard Chinese keyboard, patent number: CN1048562C Method: Instead of using the standard QWERTY keyboard layout, a custom Chinese Pinyin tone selection key and its arrangement are defined, and a custom key combination rule is used for input. This method requires specially designed circuitry to support it and allows direct input of Chinese Pinyin characters with tones. Disadvantages: The input rules are quite unique and do not conform to the usual user habits. They also increase the complexity of design and manufacturing, production costs and failure risks. They pose a significant learning and usage difficulty for users, which is not conducive to reducing production and maintenance costs and learning and application.

[0012] Currently available Chinese input methods and software / hardware have the following problems with inputting full-width Chinese punctuation marks: (1) Common Chinese and English input methods are based on standard QWERTY keyboards and do not have full-width Chinese punctuation keys that are parallel to half-width English punctuation keys. You need to switch between full-width and half-width input modes in the input method before typing the characters, which will lead to frequent switching, redundancy, and incorrect input. (2) Existing Chinese and English punctuation input methods are based on the standard QWERTY keyboard layout. They do not extend the full-width Chinese punctuation keys, but redefine the original half-width English punctuation as full-width Chinese punctuation, which can be directly typed. However, they fail to take into account the input of half-width English punctuation at the same time, which makes it difficult for users to learn and use. (3) Existing Chinese and English punctuation input methods are based on the standard QWERTY keyboard layout and redefine the original half-width character keys as full-width Chinese punctuation keys, which can be directly typed. However, the key layout design is not reasonable enough, making it inconvenient for high-frequency typing. It also does not optimize the arrangement of high-frequency symbols such as full-width commas, periods and question marks in Chinese input. In practical applications, it presents a great learning and usage difficulty for users. (4) Existing Chinese and English punctuation input methods are also based on the standard QWERTY keyboard layout. They do not extend the full-width Chinese punctuation keys and use two or more keys to encode the full-width Chinese punctuation. In practical applications, this is equivalent to multi-step typing, which is cumbersome and presents a great learning and usage difficulty for users. (5) Some existing Chinese and English punctuation input methods do not use the standard QWERTY keyboard layout and have a custom arrangement of full-width Chinese punctuation keys. These can be typed directly, but the overall custom keyboard is difficult to learn and use. Some are designed for small screens, while others require a specific input method encoding scheme, which also presents a great learning and usage difficulty for users. (6) Some existing Chinese and English punctuation input methods do not adopt the standard QWERTY keyboard layout. They have a custom layout of adding full-width Chinese punctuation keys and use special combination keys to input. They also require special circuits to support them. They can be directly input, but in actual applications, they are difficult for users to learn and use, and also increase the complexity of design and manufacturing, production costs and failure risks.

[0013] Currently available Chinese input methods and software / hardware have the following problems when using Chinese Pinyin input methods to improve input efficiency, particularly when applying Pinyin characters with tones: (1) In common Chinese Pinyin input methods, the input device is generally not required to have keys related to Pinyin tone input, and Pinyin characters with tone are generally not used as the input encoding method for Chinese characters. Instead, Pinyin characters without tone are used in combination with other information such as word groups and character shapes, or Pinyin characters without tone and tone codes are used as the encoding method for separate characters. This will lead to adverse effects such as increased homonym rate and cumbersome input. (2) Among the existing Chinese Pinyin input methods, there are also some based on the standard QWERTY keyboard layout, which redefine several keys as Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys. For inputting Chinese Pinyin characters with tones, you can use the Chinese Pinyin vowel key in the redefined key + the Chinese Pinyin tone combination key to press together, which can be entered in one step. However, the redefined key layout does not have good compatibility with half-width English characters input at the same time, which will lead to the effect of inconvenient Chinese and English mixed input. (3) Among the existing Chinese Pinyin input methods, there are also those that do not use the standard QWERTY keyboard layout and have custom Chinese Pinyin tone input keys. For Chinese Pinyin characters with tones, custom key codes or key code combinations can be used. The encoding methods used are relatively complex and not universal enough, which makes it difficult for users to learn and use them.

[0014] Therefore, it is necessary to provide an input method and device that, based on the standard QWERTY keyboard, does not change its main layout, but mainly expands the lower adjacent area with full-width Chinese punctuation keys and Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys, and optimizes the arrangement and order of the expanded keys. With the corresponding computing device software, it can be used to directly input full-width Chinese punctuation marks and Chinese Pinyin characters with tones, thereby improving the efficiency of Chinese and English punctuation input, reducing the homonym rate of Chinese Pinyin input methods, and increasing the speed of Chinese input. It is easy for beginners to learn and use, effectively improves the efficiency of mixed Chinese and English input, and also has more complete Chinese Pinyin input functions. Summary of the Invention

[0015] The technical problem this invention aims to solve is to enhance the keyboard layout by extending the lower adjacent area of ​​the standard QWERTY keyboard layout with custom keys such as full-width Chinese punctuation keys and / or Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys. With the cooperation of corresponding calculation software, full-width Chinese punctuation marks can be entered in one step, and Chinese Pinyin vowel characters with tones can also be entered in one step via combination keys. This improves upon the problem in existing mixed Chinese and English input methods that often require two steps, such as frequently switching between half-width and full-width input states before entering full-width Chinese or half-width English punctuation marks. Furthermore, it also addresses the current lack of a mature method to enhance Chinese Pinyin input methods, reduce homophone rates, and improve Chinese input efficiency by allowing users to enter Chinese Pinyin vowel characters with tones in one step via the keyboard. Thus, it improves the ease of use and efficiency of mixed Chinese and English input.

[0016] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: Option 1: A Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme, characterized in that it includes: The QWERTY keyboard area is based on the standard QWERTY keyboard and is used to input regular English letters, numbers, and other half-width symbols, as well as to work with other extended keys. The full-width Chinese punctuation mark key is an extended key that defines commonly used full-width Chinese punctuation marks, including at least the most commonly used full-width Chinese comma, period, semicolon, question mark, exclamation mark, colon, pause mark, and left and right double quotation marks, etc., for quickly typing full-width Chinese punctuation mark characters, etc. The full-width Chinese punctuation mark keys, together with other extended keys, can be arranged into one or more rows to form an independent area, adjacent to the lower part of the QWERTY keyboard area; The arrangement of the full-width Chinese punctuation marks, including the Chinese full-width commas, periods, and question marks that frequently appear in Chinese input, should be based on the arrangement of the English half-width commas, periods, and question marks in the QWERTY keyboard area, and should be arranged as close as possible for easy input.

[0017] Furthermore, the arrangement of the QWERTY keyboard area includes: Without changing its arrangement, all full-width Chinese punctuation marks are arranged below it; Alternatively, the bottom row of the QWERTY keyboard area, namely the row containing the CTRL key, ALT key, and space bar, can be moved down one or more rows, separating the QWERTY keyboard area into two parts, upper and lower. The space in the middle can be used to insert extended key rows such as the full-width Chinese punctuation mark keys. The significance is that punctuation marks are inputted in large quantities, and moving them to a position close to the fingers makes them easier to input.

[0018] Furthermore, the full-width Chinese punctuation key includes: Each key can be defined with 1 to 2 full-width Chinese characters. The usage is that you can directly press the key to input the default character or the lower-level character. For keys that define two characters, upper and lower, they can be used in combination with the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area to switch the input of the upper-level character. The usage is the same as the keys in the QWERTY keyboard area.

[0019] Furthermore, the full-width Chinese punctuation key includes: It can include all or some of the defined full-width Chinese characters, such as left and right single quotes, left and right book title marks, left and right single book title marks, left and right parentheses, left and right square brackets, ellipses, dashes and central dots, etc. It can also include punctuation marks from Chinese regions outside mainland China, such as left and right straight brackets, which can greatly facilitate the input of Chinese punctuation marks and enhance the input of mixed Chinese and English.

[0020] Furthermore, including: Additionally, one or two additional full-width / half-width switching combination keys with the same function can be added. When used in combination with the regular English, number, and other half-width character keys in the QWERTY keyboard area and pressed together with the corresponding software, synchronous full-width / half-width switching input can be achieved, that is, the corresponding switching input of regular punctuation marks such as English and numbers with Chinese punctuation marks. Releasing the key will de-switch and automatically restore the original input state. It does not need to rely on the input method's temporary state, making the switching flexible and avoiding incorrect input. It can also be expanded with 1 to 2 full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination keys with the same function, which is equivalent to pressing the full-width / half-width switching combination key and the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area at the same time. When used in combination with the regular English, number and other half-width symbol keys in the QWERTY keyboard area and with the corresponding software, it can not only switch the full-width / half-width input state at the same time, but also switch the key up / down characters or uppercase and lowercase. The significance is to solve the problem that it is difficult for users to press 3 keys at the same time, namely the full-width / half-width switching combination key, the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area and the key in the QWERTY keyboard area; When two identical full-width / half-width switching combination keys and / or two identical full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination keys are extended, they can be arranged at the left and right ends of the same key row, making it convenient for users to input with both hands.

[0021] Furthermore, including: It can also be expanded with an LED light occupying one key position to indicate the current full-width or half-width input status in the input method, which can help users correct and reduce input errors.

[0022] Furthermore, including: The aforementioned Chinese language input keyboard enhancement solution can be applied to the design and production of hardware or software keyboards and other products to meet user needs.

[0023] Furthermore, including: On the computing device side, there is currently no mainstream operating system that supports the full-width Chinese punctuation marks and other key inputs by default. For example, there is no mapping from the keyboard hardware to the operating system's Virtual-Key Code, and then to the final input characters. Therefore, input and conversion can be achieved with corresponding software. If it is later made compatible by default by the mainstream operating system, no auxiliary software outside the operating system will be needed.

[0024] Option 2: A Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme, characterized in that it includes: The QWERTY keyboard area is based on the standard QWERTY keyboard and is used to input regular English letters, numbers, and other half-width symbols, as well as to work with other extended keys. The Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys are extended keys, consisting of at least four combination keys representing the four tones of Pinyin: high level tone (yinping), rising tone (yangping), falling-rising tone (shangsheng), and falling tone (qusheng). These keys assist in inputting Pinyin vowels with tones, similar to the SHIFT keys on a standard QWERTY keyboard. When inputting, one can hold down a tone key while simultaneously pressing an English key from the a, o, e, i, u, or v area of ​​the QWERTY keyboard. With corresponding software, this allows input of Pinyin vowels with tones such as ā, á, ǎ, à, ō, ó, ǒ, ò, ē, é, ě, è, ī, í, ǐ, ì, ū, ú, ǔ, ù, ǖ, ǘ, ǚ, and ǜ. This can then be applied to character encoding in Chinese Pinyin input methods to reduce homophone rates and improve input speed. The Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys, together with other extended keys, can be arranged in one or more rows to form an independent area, adjacent to the lower part of the QWERTY keyboard area.

[0025] Furthermore, the arrangement of the QWERTY keyboard area includes: Without changing its arrangement, all the Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys are arranged below it; Alternatively, the bottom row of the QWERTY keyboard area, namely the row containing the CTRL key, ALT key, and space bar, can be moved down one or more rows, separating the QWERTY keyboard area into two parts, with the space in the middle used to insert extended key rows such as the Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys. The purpose is to move them to a position closer to the fingers for easier input.

[0026] Furthermore, the arrangement of the Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys includes: The Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys can be arranged in one group or two identical groups, respectively arranged at the left and right ends of the row where the keys are located, and respectively located below the left and right SHIFT keys in the QWERTY keyboard area, so as to facilitate users to input with both hands.

[0027] Furthermore, including: It can also expand the Chinese Pinyin related combination key accent mark ˆ, which can be combined with the English key E in the QWERTY keyboard area and typed together, and with the corresponding software, to realize the input of the special Pinyin vowel character ê, so as to enhance the full Pinyin input method; It can also expand the character key Ê, which allows direct input of the special final character ê in Chinese Pinyin, to enhance the full Pinyin input method.

[0028] Furthermore, including: Additionally, the character key Ü can be expanded to allow direct input of the special final character ü in Chinese Pinyin, thereby enhancing the full Pinyin input method; In addition, when combined with the aforementioned Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys, the final characters ǖ, ǘ, ǚ, or ǜ with tones can be input, which can be used to enhance the full Pinyin input method.

[0029] Furthermore, including: Additionally, one or two additional full-width / half-width switching combination keys with the same function can be added. When used in combination with the regular English, number, and other half-width character keys in the QWERTY keyboard area and pressed together with the corresponding software, synchronous full-width / half-width switching input can be achieved, that is, the corresponding switching input of regular punctuation marks such as English and numbers with Chinese punctuation marks. Releasing the key will de-switch and automatically restore the original input state. It does not need to rely on the input method's temporary state, making the switching flexible and avoiding incorrect input. It can also be expanded with 1 to 2 full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination keys with the same function, which is equivalent to pressing the full-width / half-width switching combination key and the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area at the same time. When used in combination with the regular English, number and other half-width symbol keys in the QWERTY keyboard area and with the corresponding software, it can not only switch the full-width / half-width input state at the same time, but also switch the key up / down characters or uppercase and lowercase. The significance is to solve the problem that it is difficult for users to press 3 keys at the same time, namely the full-width / half-width switching combination key, the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area and the key in the QWERTY keyboard area; When two identical full-width / half-width switching combination keys and / or two identical full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination keys are extended, they can be arranged at the left and right ends of the same key row, making it convenient for users to input with both hands.

[0030] Furthermore, including: It can also be expanded with an LED light occupying one key position to indicate the current full-width or half-width input status in the input method, which can help users correct and reduce input errors.

[0031] Furthermore, including: The aforementioned Chinese language input keyboard enhancement solution can be applied to the design and production of hardware or software keyboards and other products to meet user needs.

[0032] Furthermore, including: On the computing device side, there is currently no mainstream operating system that supports all the extended Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys by default. For example, there is no mapping from the keyboard hardware to the operating system Virtual-Key Code, and then to the final input character. Therefore, input and conversion can be achieved with corresponding software. If it is later made compatible by default by the mainstream operating system, no auxiliary software other than the operating system will be needed.

[0033] Option 3: A Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme, characterized in that it includes: The QWERTY keyboard area is based on the standard QWERTY keyboard and is used to input regular English letters, numbers, and other half-width symbols, as well as to work with other extended keys. The full-width Chinese punctuation mark key is an extended key that defines commonly used full-width Chinese punctuation marks, including at least the most commonly used full-width Chinese comma, period, semicolon, question mark, exclamation mark, colon, pause mark, and left and right double quotation marks, etc., for quickly typing full-width Chinese punctuation mark characters, etc. The Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys are extended keys, consisting of at least four combination keys representing the four tones of Pinyin: high level tone (yinping), rising tone (yangping), falling-rising tone (shangsheng), and falling tone (qusheng). These keys assist in inputting Pinyin vowels with tones, similar to the SHIFT keys on a standard QWERTY keyboard. When inputting, one can hold down a tone key while simultaneously pressing an English key from the a, o, e, i, u, or v area of ​​the QWERTY keyboard. With corresponding software, this allows input of Pinyin vowels with tones such as ā, á, ǎ, à, ō, ó, ǒ, ò, ē, é, ě, è, ī, í, ǐ, ì, ū, ú, ǔ, ù, ǖ, ǘ, ǚ, and ǜ. This can then be applied to character encoding in Chinese Pinyin input methods to reduce homophone rates and improve input speed. The arrangement of the full-width Chinese punctuation marks, including the Chinese full-width comma, period, and question mark keys that frequently appear in Chinese input, should be arranged as close as possible to the English half-width comma, period, and question mark keys in the QWERTY keyboard area for easy input. The full-width Chinese punctuation keys and the Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys can be arranged together with other extended keys in one or more rows to form an independent area, adjacent to the lower part of the QWERTY keyboard area.

[0034] Furthermore, the arrangement of the QWERTY keyboard area includes: Without changing its arrangement, the full-width Chinese punctuation marks and the Chinese pinyin tone combination keys are both arranged below it; Alternatively, the bottom row of the QWERTY keyboard area, namely the row containing the CTRL key, ALT key, and space bar, can be moved down one or more rows, separating the QWERTY keyboard area into two parts, with the space in the middle used to insert extended key rows such as the full-width Chinese punctuation marks key and the Chinese Pinyin tone combination key. The purpose is to move them to a position closer to the fingers for easier input.

[0035] Furthermore, the full-width Chinese punctuation key includes: Each key can be defined with 1 to 2 full-width Chinese characters. The usage is that you can directly press the key to input the default character or the lower-level character. For keys that define two characters, upper and lower, they can be used in combination with the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area to switch the input of the upper-level character. The usage is the same as the keys in the QWERTY keyboard area.

[0036] Furthermore, the full-width Chinese punctuation key includes: It can include all or some of the defined full-width Chinese characters, such as left and right single quotes, left and right book title marks, left and right single book title marks, left and right parentheses, left and right square brackets, ellipses, dashes and central dots, etc. It can also include punctuation marks from Chinese regions outside mainland China, such as left and right straight brackets, which can greatly facilitate the input of Chinese punctuation marks and enhance the input of mixed Chinese and English.

[0037] Furthermore, the arrangement of the Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys includes: The Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys can be arranged in one group or two identical groups, respectively arranged at the left and right ends of the row where the keys are located, and respectively located below the left and right SHIFT keys in the QWERTY keyboard area, so as to facilitate users to input with both hands.

[0038] Furthermore, including: It can also expand the Chinese Pinyin related combination key accent mark ˆ, which can be combined with the English key E in the QWERTY keyboard area and typed together, and with the corresponding software, to realize the input of the special Pinyin vowel character ê, so as to enhance the full Pinyin input method; It can also expand the character key Ê, which allows direct input of the special final character ê in Chinese Pinyin, to enhance the full Pinyin input method.

[0039] Furthermore, including: Additionally, the character key Ü can be expanded to allow direct input of the special final character ü in Chinese Pinyin, thereby enhancing the full Pinyin input method; In addition, when combined with the aforementioned Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys, the final characters ǖ, ǘ, ǚ, or ǜ with tones can be input, which can be used to enhance the full Pinyin input method.

[0040] Furthermore, including: Additionally, one or two additional full-width / half-width switching combination keys with the same function can be added. When used in combination with the regular English, number, and other half-width character keys in the QWERTY keyboard area and pressed together with the corresponding software, synchronous full-width / half-width switching input can be achieved, that is, the corresponding switching input of regular punctuation marks such as English and numbers with Chinese punctuation marks. Releasing the key will de-switch and automatically restore the original input state. It does not need to rely on the input method's temporary state, making the switching flexible and avoiding incorrect input. It can also be expanded with 1 to 2 full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination keys with the same function, which is equivalent to pressing the full-width / half-width switching combination key and the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area at the same time. When used in combination with the regular English, number and other half-width symbol keys in the QWERTY keyboard area and with the corresponding software, it can not only switch the full-width / half-width input state at the same time, but also switch the key up / down characters or uppercase and lowercase. The significance is to solve the problem that it is difficult for users to press 3 keys at the same time, namely the full-width / half-width switching combination key, the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area and the key in the QWERTY keyboard area; When two identical full-width / half-width switching combination keys and / or two identical full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination keys are extended, they can be arranged at the left and right ends of the same key row, making it convenient for users to input with both hands.

[0041] Furthermore, including: It can also be expanded with an LED light occupying one key position to indicate the current full-width or half-width input status in the input method, which can help users correct and reduce input errors.

[0042] Furthermore, including: The aforementioned Chinese language input keyboard enhancement solution can be applied to the design and production of hardware or software keyboards and other products to meet user needs.

[0043] Furthermore, including: On the computing device side, there is currently no mainstream operating system that supports the full-width Chinese punctuation marks and the Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys by default. For example, there is no mapping from the keyboard hardware to the operating system Virtual-Key Code, and then to the final input character. Therefore, input and conversion can be achieved with corresponding software. If it is later supported by the mainstream operating system by default, no auxiliary software other than the operating system will be needed.

[0044] The beneficial effects of this invention are: (1) is a new type of keyboard extension solution specifically designed for Chinese input, Pinyin input and mixed Chinese and English input. It can be used with corresponding software to input full-width Chinese punctuation marks and Pinyin characters with tones more quickly, so as to enhance Chinese input and mixed Chinese and English input. (2) It can conveniently and quickly input full-width Chinese punctuation marks and / or Chinese pinyin vowel characters with tones. When used with corresponding input method software, it can reduce the homonym rate and enhance the efficiency of Chinese input. (3) The main layout is based on the traditional layout of the standard QWERTY keyboard, with the addition of extended keys. This has little impact on users' input habits and the design and manufacturing costs are relatively economical. (4) The full-width Chinese punctuation marks and the Chinese pinyin characters with tones can be entered by simply using the keyboard, without the need for multiple steps such as screen menus, which can greatly improve efficiency; (5) It is conducive to promoting Chinese language education and use; (6) It is conducive to driving the development of related software and ecosystem products. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the keyboard layout according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the keyboard layout according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the keyboard layout according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the keyboard layout in Embodiment 4 of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the keyboard layout in Embodiment 5 of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the keyboard layout according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the keyboard layout according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0046] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of the present invention described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0047] In the description of the embodiments of this invention, it should be noted that if terms such as "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," or "outer" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product is in use, they are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," and "third" are only used to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0048] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "horizontal," "vertical," and "sag" does not imply that the component must be absolutely horizontal or suspended, but rather that it can be slightly tilted. For example, "horizontal" simply means that its direction is more horizontal relative to "vertical," and does not mean that the structure must be completely horizontal, but can be slightly tilted.

[0049] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, "multiple" means at least two.

[0050] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," "connect," and "link" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention according to the specific circumstances. Example

[0051] A Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme, described below in conjunction with the appendix. Figure 1 The specific embodiments of the present invention will be further described below.

[0052] System components: The QWERTY keyboard area (P1) is based on the standard QWERTY keyboard and is used to be compatible with the input of regular English and other half-width symbols. E1 and E2 in the figure are the other key areas of the standard QWERTY keyboard. The full-width Chinese punctuation key (P2) is an extended key that, when used with the corresponding software, allows direct input of full-width Chinese punctuation marks. The arrangement of the Chinese full-width comma, period, and question mark keys, which frequently appear in Chinese input, is based on the arrangement of the English half-width comma, period, and question mark keys in the QWERTY keyboard area, and is arranged in a nearby manner for easy input. The full-width / half-width switching key combination (example name: EN / CN) is an extended key used to simultaneously switch between full-width and half-width input states when typing characters; The full-width / half-width toggle key combination with SHIFT (example name: Shift+EN / CN) is an extended key used to simultaneously switch between full-width and half-width input states, as well as to switch between upper and lower character levels or character case when typing characters. An LED light occupying one key position is an extended key used to indicate the full-width and half-width input status; All the extended keys, except for the QWERTY keyboard area (P1), are arranged in one row, adjacent to each other below the QWERTY keyboard area (P1).

[0053] Working principle: Corresponding software is required to achieve the desired functionality; To type half-width English letters, numbers, and punctuation marks, type them directly within the QWERTY keyboard area (P1); The way to type full-width Chinese punctuation marks is as follows: if you need to type the default character on the full-width Chinese punctuation mark key (P2), that is, the lower-level character, you can type it directly. If you need to type the upper-level character on the full-width Chinese punctuation mark key (P2), you can type it together with the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1). The usage is the same as typing the upper-level character on the standard QWERTY keyboard. Another way to type full-width Chinese punctuation marks is to use the full-width / half-width switching key combination (example name: EN / CN) or the full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination key combination (example name: Shift+EN / CN) in combination with the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1) and press them together. The difference between the two combinations is that the former is used to type the default characters on the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys, that is, the full-width Chinese characters corresponding to the lower half-width characters, while the latter is used to type the full-width Chinese characters corresponding to the upper half-width characters on the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys. In this embodiment, the LED light is used to indicate full-width input mode when it is lit and half-width input mode when it is off. In modern operating systems, the on / off state of the LED light can be changed by the user's operation and the input method software sends a command to the keyboard. When switching between full-width and half-width input modes is required for mixed Chinese and English input, the user can observe and confirm the current input mode to avoid incorrect input or redundant switching. Example

[0054] A Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme, described below in conjunction with the appendix. Figure 2 The specific embodiments of the present invention will be further described below.

[0055] System components: The QWERTY keyboard area (P1) is based on the standard QWERTY keyboard and is used to be compatible with the input of regular English and other half-width symbols. E1 and E2 in the figure are the other key areas of the standard QWERTY keyboard. The Chinese Pinyin tone combination key (P2) is an extended key that works with the corresponding software to assist in typing Chinese Pinyin vowel characters with tones in one step, enhancing the Chinese Pinyin input method. There are two groups on each side, each group including four keys representing the four tones of Chinese Pinyin: high level tone (yinping), rising tone (yangping), falling-rising tone (shangsheng), and falling tone (qusheng). There are a total of eight keys in the two groups, which makes it convenient for users to input with both hands. The Ê key, a special character for Chinese Pinyin, is an extended key used to input the Pinyin character ê, thereby enhancing the Chinese Pinyin input method. The Ü key, a special character for Chinese Pinyin, is an extended key used to input the Chinese Pinyin character ü, enhancing the Chinese Pinyin input method. The full-width / half-width switching key combination (example name: EN / CN) is an extended key used to simultaneously switch between full-width and half-width input states when typing characters. There are two keys, one on the left and one on the right. The full-width / half-width switch + SHIFT combination key (example name: Shift+EN / CN) is an extended key used to simultaneously switch between full-width and half-width input states while typing characters, as well as to switch between upper and lower case characters or character case. There are two keys, one on the left and one on the right. An LED light occupying one key position is an extended key used to indicate the full-width and half-width input status; All the extended keys, except for the QWERTY keyboard area (P1), are arranged in one row, adjacent to each other below the QWERTY keyboard area (P1).

[0056] Working principle: Corresponding software is required to achieve the desired functionality; To type half-width English letters, numbers, and punctuation marks, type them directly within the QWERTY keyboard area (P1); The way to type Chinese Pinyin vowel characters with tones is to use the Chinese Pinyin tone combination key (P2) and the half-width English vowel symbol in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1) to press them together. For the special Chinese Pinyin vowel character Ü, it can be replaced by the half-width English character V key in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1) and type it in combination. To type the special characters Ê or Ü in Chinese Pinyin, simply type them directly. The method for typing full-width Chinese punctuation marks is to use the full-width / half-width switching key combination (example name: EN / CN) or the full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination key combination (example name: Shift+EN / CN) in combination with the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1) and press them together. The difference between the two combinations is that the former is used to type the default characters on the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys, that is, the full-width Chinese characters corresponding to the lower half-width characters, while the latter is used to type the full-width Chinese characters corresponding to the upper half-width characters on the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys. In this embodiment, the LED light is used to indicate full-width input mode when it is lit and half-width input mode when it is off. In modern operating systems, the on / off state of the LED light can be changed by the user's operation and the input method software sends a command to the keyboard. When switching between full-width and half-width input modes is required for mixed Chinese and English input, the user can observe and confirm the current input mode to avoid incorrect input or redundant switching. Example

[0057] A Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme, described below in conjunction with the appendix. Figure 3 The specific embodiments of the present invention will be further described below.

[0058] System components: The QWERTY keyboard area (P1) is based on the standard QWERTY keyboard and is used to be compatible with the input of regular English and other half-width symbols. E1 and E2 in the figure are the other key areas of the standard QWERTY keyboard. The full-width Chinese punctuation key (inside P2) is an extended key that, when used with the corresponding software, allows direct input of full-width Chinese punctuation marks. The arrangement of the Chinese full-width comma, period, and question mark keys, which frequently appear in Chinese input, is based on the arrangement of the English half-width comma, period, and question mark keys in the QWERTY keyboard area, and is arranged in a nearby manner for easy input. The Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys (within P2) are extended keys that work with the corresponding software to assist in typing Chinese Pinyin vowel characters with tones in one step, enhancing the Chinese Pinyin input method. There are two groups on each side, each group including four keys representing the four tones of Chinese Pinyin: high level tone (yinping), rising tone (yangping), falling-rising tone (shangsheng), and falling tone (qusheng). There are a total of eight keys in the two groups, which facilitates users to input with both hands. The full-width / half-width switching key combination (example name: EN / CN) is an extended key used to simultaneously switch between full-width and half-width input states when typing characters; The full-width / half-width toggle key combination with SHIFT (example name: Shift+EN / CN) is an extended key used to simultaneously switch between full-width and half-width input states, as well as to switch between upper and lower character levels or character case when typing characters. An LED light occupying one key position is an extended key used to indicate the full-width and half-width input status; All the extended keys, except for the QWERTY keyboard area (P1), are arranged in one row, adjacent to each other below the QWERTY keyboard area (P1).

[0059] Working principle: Corresponding software is required to achieve the desired functionality; To type half-width English letters, numbers, and punctuation marks, type them directly within the QWERTY keyboard area (P1); The way to type Chinese Pinyin vowel characters with tones is to use the Chinese Pinyin tone combination key (P2) and the half-width English vowel symbol in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1) to press them together. For the special Chinese Pinyin vowel character Ü, it can be replaced by the half-width English character V key in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1) and type it in combination. The way to type full-width Chinese punctuation marks is as follows: if you need to type the default character on the full-width Chinese punctuation mark key (P2), that is, the lower-level character, you can type it directly. If you need to type the upper-level character on the full-width Chinese punctuation mark key (P2), you can type it together with the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1). The usage is the same as typing the upper-level character on the standard QWERTY keyboard. Another way to type full-width Chinese punctuation marks is to use the full-width / half-width switching key combination (example name: EN / CN) or the full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination key combination (example name: Shift+EN / CN) in combination with the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1) and press them together. The difference between the two combinations is that the former is used to type the default characters on the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys, that is, the full-width Chinese characters corresponding to the lower half-width characters, while the latter is used to type the full-width Chinese characters corresponding to the upper half-width characters on the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys. In this embodiment, the LED light is used to indicate full-width input mode when it is lit and half-width input mode when it is off. In modern operating systems, the on / off state of the LED light can be changed by the user's operation and the input method software sends a command to the keyboard. When switching between full-width and half-width input modes is required for mixed Chinese and English input, the user can observe and confirm the current input mode to avoid incorrect input or redundant switching. Example

[0060] A Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme, described below in conjunction with the appendix. Figure 4 The specific embodiments of the present invention will be further described below.

[0061] System components: The QWERTY keyboard areas (P1A, P1B) are based on the standard QWERTY keyboard and are designed to be compatible with the input of regular English letters and other half-width symbols. In the diagram, E1A, E2A, E1B, and E2B represent other key areas of the standard QWERTY keyboard. The bottom row (P1B) of the QWERTY keyboard areas (P1A, P1B), which consists of the CTRL key, ALT key, and space bar, is moved down one row, separating the QWERTY keyboard areas into two parts (P1A, P1B). The space in the middle is used to insert other extended keys (P2). The purpose of this is to move the extended keys (P2) closer to the fingers for easier input. The full-width Chinese punctuation key (P2) is an extended key that, when used with the corresponding software, allows direct input of full-width Chinese punctuation marks. The arrangement of the Chinese full-width comma, period, and question mark keys, which frequently appear in Chinese input, is based on the arrangement of the English half-width comma, period, and question mark keys in the QWERTY keyboard area, and is arranged in a nearby manner for easy input. The full-width / half-width switching key combination (example name: EN / CN) is an extended key used to simultaneously switch between full-width and half-width input states when typing characters; The full-width / half-width toggle key combination with SHIFT (example name: Shift+EN / CN) is an extended key used to simultaneously switch between full-width and half-width input states, as well as to switch between upper and lower character levels or character case when typing characters. An LED light occupying one key position is an extended key used to indicate the full-width and half-width input status; All the extended keys, except for the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A, P1B), are arranged in one row, adjacent to each other below the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A).

[0062] Working principle: Corresponding software is required to achieve the desired functionality; To type half-width English letters, numbers, and punctuation marks, type them directly within the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A). The way to type full-width Chinese punctuation marks is as follows: if you need to type the default character on the full-width Chinese punctuation mark key (P2), that is, the lower-level character, you can type it directly. If you need to type the upper-level character on the full-width Chinese punctuation mark key (P2), you can type it together with the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A). The usage is the same as typing the upper-level character on the standard QWERTY keyboard. Another way to type full-width Chinese punctuation marks is to use the full-width / half-width switching key combination (example name: EN / CN) or the full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination key combination (example name: Shift+EN / CN) in combination with the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A) and press them together. The difference between the two combinations is that the former is used to type the default characters on the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys, that is, the full-width Chinese characters corresponding to the lower half-width characters, while the latter is used to type the full-width Chinese characters corresponding to the upper half-width characters on the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys. In this embodiment, the LED light is used to indicate full-width input mode when it is lit and half-width input mode when it is off. In modern operating systems, the on / off state of the LED light can be changed by the user's operation and the input method software sends a command to the keyboard. When switching between full-width and half-width input modes is required for mixed Chinese and English input, the user can observe and confirm the current input mode to avoid incorrect input or redundant switching. Example

[0063] A Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme, described below in conjunction with the appendix. Figure 5 The specific embodiments of the present invention will be further described below.

[0064] System components: The QWERTY keyboard areas (P1A, P1B) are based on the standard QWERTY keyboard and are designed to be compatible with the input of regular English letters and other half-width symbols. In the diagram, E1A, E2A, E1B, and E2B represent other key areas of the standard QWERTY keyboard. The bottom row (P1B) of the QWERTY keyboard areas (P1A, P1B), which consists of the CTRL key, ALT key, and space bar, is moved down one row, separating the QWERTY keyboard areas into two parts (P1A, P1B). The space in the middle is used to insert other extended keys (P2). The purpose of this is to move the extended keys (P2) closer to the fingers for easier input. The Chinese Pinyin tone combination key (P2) is an extended key that works with the corresponding software to assist in typing Chinese Pinyin vowel characters with tones in one step, enhancing the Chinese Pinyin input method. There are two groups on each side, each group including four keys representing the four tones of Chinese Pinyin: high level tone (yinping), rising tone (yangping), falling-rising tone (shangsheng), and falling tone (qusheng). There are a total of eight keys in the two groups, which makes it convenient for users to input with both hands. The Ê key, a special character for Chinese Pinyin, is an extended key used to input the Pinyin character ê, thereby enhancing the Chinese Pinyin input method. The Ü key, a special character for Chinese Pinyin, is an extended key used to input the Chinese Pinyin character ü, enhancing the Chinese Pinyin input method. The full-width / half-width switching key combination (example name: EN / CN) is an extended key used to simultaneously switch between full-width and half-width input states when typing characters. There are two keys, one on the left and one on the right. The full-width / half-width switch + SHIFT combination key (example name: Shift+EN / CN) is an extended key used to simultaneously switch between full-width and half-width input states while typing characters, as well as to switch between upper and lower case characters or character case. There are two keys, one on the left and one on the right. An LED light occupying one key position is an extended key used to indicate the full-width and half-width input status; All the extended keys, except for the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A, P1B), are arranged in one row, adjacent to each other below the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A).

[0065] Working principle: Corresponding software is required to achieve the desired functionality; To type half-width English letters, numbers, and punctuation marks, type them directly within the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A). The method for typing Chinese Pinyin finals with tones is to use the Chinese Pinyin tone combination key (P2) and the half-width English final symbol in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A) to type them together. For the special Chinese Pinyin final character Ü, it can be replaced by the half-width English character V key in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A) and typed in combination. To type the special characters Ê or Ü in Chinese Pinyin, simply type them directly. To type full-width Chinese punctuation marks, use the full-width / half-width switching key combination (example name: EN / CN) or the full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination key combination (example name: Shift+EN / CN) in combination with the half-width English, number, and punctuation marks keys in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A). The difference between the two combinations is that the former is used to type the default characters on the half-width English, number, and punctuation marks keys, that is, the full-width Chinese characters corresponding to the lower half-width characters, while the latter is used to type the full-width Chinese characters corresponding to the upper half-width characters on the half-width English, number, and punctuation marks keys. In this embodiment, the LED light is used to indicate full-width input mode when it is lit and half-width input mode when it is off. In modern operating systems, the on / off state of the LED light can be changed by the user's operation and the input method software sends a command to the keyboard. When switching between full-width and half-width input modes is required for mixed Chinese and English input, the user can observe and confirm the current input mode to avoid incorrect input or redundant switching. Example

[0066] A Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme, described below in conjunction with the appendix. Figure 6 The specific embodiments of the present invention will be further described below.

[0067] System components: The QWERTY keyboard areas (P1A, P1B) are based on the standard QWERTY keyboard and are designed to be compatible with the input of regular English letters and other half-width symbols. In the diagram, E1A, E2A, E1B, and E2B represent other key areas of the standard QWERTY keyboard. The bottom row (P1B) of the QWERTY keyboard areas (P1A, P1B), which consists of the CTRL key, ALT key, and space bar, is moved down one row, dividing the QWERTY keyboard areas into two parts (P1A, P1B). The space in the middle is used to insert other extended keys (P2A). The purpose of this is to move the extended keys (P2A) closer to the fingers for easier input. The full-width Chinese punctuation keys (P2A, P2B) are extended keys that, when used with corresponding software, allow direct input of full-width Chinese punctuation marks. The arrangement of the keys for frequently used Chinese full-width commas, periods, and question marks is based on the arrangement of the English half-width commas, periods, and question marks on the QWERTY keyboard area, making them convenient for input. The Pinyin tone combination key (P2B) is an extended key that, in conjunction with corresponding software, assists in typing Pinyin vowels with tones in one step, enhancing the Pinyin input method. It consists of two groups on each side, each group including four keys representing the four tones of Pinyin: high level tone (Yinping), rising tone (Yangping), falling-rising tone (Shangsheng), and falling tone (Qusheng). There are a total of eight keys in the two groups, which facilitates two-handed input. The full-width / half-width switching key combination (example name: EN / CN) is an extended key used to simultaneously switch between full-width and half-width input states when typing characters; The full-width / half-width toggle key combination with SHIFT (example name: Shift+EN / CN) is an extended key used to simultaneously switch between full-width and half-width input states, as well as to switch between upper and lower character levels or character case when typing characters. An LED light occupying one key position is an extended key used to indicate the full-width and half-width input status; The other extended keys, excluding the QWERTY keyboard areas (P1A, P1B), are arranged in two rows (P2A, P2B). The first row (P2A) is arranged below the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A), and the second row (P2B) is arranged below the QWERTY keyboard area (P1B).

[0068] Working principle: Corresponding software is required to achieve the desired functionality; To type half-width English letters, numbers, and punctuation marks, type them directly within the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A, P1B). The method for typing Chinese Pinyin finals with tones is to use the Chinese Pinyin tone combination key (inside P2B) and the half-width English final symbol in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A) to type them together. For the special Chinese Pinyin final character Ü, it can be replaced by the half-width English character V key in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A) and typed in combination. To type full-width Chinese punctuation marks, if you need to type the default character on the full-width Chinese punctuation mark keys (P2A, P2B), i.e., the lower-level character, you can type it directly. If you need to type the upper-level character on the full-width Chinese punctuation mark keys (P2A, P2B), you can type it in combination with the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A). The usage is the same as typing upper-level characters on the standard QWERTY keyboard. Another way to type full-width Chinese punctuation marks is to use the full-width / half-width switching key combination (example name: EN / CN) or the full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination key combination (example name: Shift+EN / CN) in combination with the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A) and press them together. The difference between the two combinations is that the former is used to type the default characters on the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys, that is, the full-width Chinese characters corresponding to the lower half-width characters, while the latter is used to type the full-width Chinese characters corresponding to the upper half-width characters on the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys. In this embodiment, the LED light is used to indicate full-width input mode when it is lit and half-width input mode when it is off. In modern operating systems, the on / off state of the LED light can be changed by the user's operation and the input method software sends a command to the keyboard. When switching between full-width and half-width input modes is required for mixed Chinese and English input, the user can observe and confirm the current input mode to avoid incorrect input or redundant switching. Example

[0069] A Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme, described below in conjunction with the appendix. Figure 7 The specific embodiments of the present invention will be further described below.

[0070] System components: The QWERTY keyboard areas (P1A, P1B) are based on the standard QWERTY keyboard and are designed to be compatible with the input of regular English letters and other half-width symbols. In the diagram, E1A, E2A, E1B, and E2B represent other key areas of the standard QWERTY keyboard. The bottom row (P1B) of the QWERTY keyboard areas (P1A, P1B), which consists of the CTRL key, ALT key, and space bar, is moved down two rows, separating the QWERTY keyboard areas into two parts (P1A, P1B). The space in the middle is used to insert other extended keys (P2). The purpose of this is to move the extended keys (P2) closer to the fingers for easier input. The full-width Chinese punctuation key (P2) is an extended key that, when used with the corresponding software, allows direct input of full-width Chinese punctuation marks. The arrangement of the Chinese full-width comma, period, and question mark keys, which frequently appear in Chinese input, is based on the arrangement of the English half-width comma, period, and question mark keys in the QWERTY keyboard area, and is arranged in a nearby manner for easy input. The Chinese Pinyin tone combination key (P2) is an extended key that works with the corresponding software to assist in typing Chinese Pinyin vowel characters with tones in one step, enhancing the Chinese Pinyin input method. There are two groups on each side, each group including four keys representing the four tones of Chinese Pinyin: high level tone (yinping), rising tone (yangping), falling-rising tone (shangsheng), and falling tone (qusheng). There are a total of eight keys in the two groups, which makes it convenient for users to input with both hands. The full-width / half-width switching key combination (example name: EN / CN) is an extended key used to simultaneously switch between full-width and half-width input states when typing characters; The full-width / half-width toggle key combination with SHIFT (example name: Shift+EN / CN) is an extended key used to simultaneously switch between full-width and half-width input states, as well as to switch between upper and lower character levels or character case when typing characters. An LED light occupying one key position is an extended key used to indicate the full-width and half-width input status; The other extended keys, excluding the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A, P1B), are arranged in two rows (P2), adjacent to each other below the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A).

[0071] Working principle: Corresponding software is required to achieve the desired functionality; To type half-width English letters, numbers, and punctuation marks, type them directly within the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A, P1B). To type the pinyin vowel characters with tones, use the pinyin tone combination key (inside P2) and the half-width English vowel symbol in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A) to type them together. For the special pinyin vowel character Ü, you can use the half-width English character V key in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A) to replace it and type it in combination. The way to type full-width Chinese punctuation marks is as follows: if you need to type the default character on the full-width Chinese punctuation mark key (P2), that is, the lower-level character, you can type it directly. If you need to type the upper-level character on the full-width Chinese punctuation mark key (P2), you can type it together with the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A). The usage is the same as typing the upper-level character on the standard QWERTY keyboard. Another way to type full-width Chinese punctuation marks is to use the full-width / half-width switching key combination (example name: EN / CN) or the full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination key combination (example name: Shift+EN / CN) in combination with the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys in the QWERTY keyboard area (P1A) and press them together. The difference between the two combinations is that the former is used to type the default characters on the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys, that is, the full-width Chinese characters corresponding to the lower half-width characters, while the latter is used to type the full-width Chinese characters corresponding to the upper half-width characters on the half-width English, number, and punctuation mark keys. In this embodiment, the LED light is used to indicate full-width input mode when it is lit and half-width input mode when it is off. In modern operating systems, the on / off state of the LED light can be changed by the user's operation and the input method software sends a command to the keyboard. When switching between full-width and half-width input modes is required for mixed Chinese and English input, the user can observe and confirm the current input mode to avoid incorrect input or redundant switching. Implementation

[0072] Without departing from the basic technical solution of this invention, various improvements and modifications can be made: (1) The hardware keyboard area where the extended keys such as the full-width Chinese punctuation mark key and the Chinese Pinyin tone auxiliary key are located can also be designed as a pull-out or foldable type, rather than an integrated type. When pulled out or unfolded, it is convenient to perform mixed Chinese and English input. When retracted or folded up, the QWERTY keyboard layout is restored, which is convenient for inputting half-width English, numbers and other characters. Its advantages are: it is relatively flexible, and users can adjust it to a mode that is compatible with mixed Chinese and English input and pure English input as needed, which is convenient and versatile; Its disadvantages are: high design and manufacturing costs, difficulty in mass production and popularization, and lack of market validation of its practicality; (2) For the extended keys such as the full-width Chinese punctuation mark key and the Chinese Pinyin tone auxiliary key, they can also be rearranged and redesigned together with the keys in the QWERTY keyboard. They do not have to completely follow the QWERTY keyboard layout and can be redesigned. Its advantages are: after the full-width Chinese symbols and half-width English and numbers are redesigned, they can be optimized based on the language itself and user habits, making them easier to input; Its disadvantages are: the design and research costs may be relatively high, and a thorough research is required before finalization, which may be both time-consuming and costly. In addition, users may find it difficult to learn and apply it. (3) For the extended keys such as full-width Chinese punctuation marks keys and Chinese Pinyin tone auxiliary keys, an electronic solution can also be designed, that is, using liquid crystal or other CNC display materials as the key surface, allowing users to customize the key name in the software and display it on the key, or using another low-cost solution with the same principle, that is, pre-printing or pre-printing extended characters on small pieces of replaceable materials such as paper, PVC or film, and installing them on the key surface in a simple fixing method such as pasting or nesting to perform custom key extension; Its advantages are: under the current computing device manufacturing technology, both solutions are feasible. Users can define and replace key names arbitrarily as needed, or directly use predefined key arrangements to replace them. This improved solution is applicable to a variety of application scenarios and has high controllability, high flexibility and high applicability. Its disadvantages are: the electronic solution may have problems such as high design and manufacturing costs, high energy consumption, unknown long-term health effects on users, and unknown practicality. Even if the low-cost solution is adopted, its practicality is unknown due to the cumbersome replacement method.

[0073] The present invention and its embodiments have been described above. This description is not restrictive, and the accompanying drawings are only one embodiment of the present invention; the actual structure is not limited thereto. In conclusion, if those skilled in the art are inspired by this description and design similar structures and embodiments without departing from the spirit of the invention, such designs should fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme, characterized in that, include: The QWERTY keyboard area is based on the standard QWERTY keyboard and is used to input regular English letters, numbers, and other half-width symbols, as well as to work with other extended keys. The full-width Chinese punctuation mark key is an extended key that defines commonly used full-width Chinese punctuation marks, including at least the most commonly used full-width Chinese comma, period, semicolon, question mark, exclamation mark, colon, pause mark, and left and right double quotation marks, etc., for quickly typing full-width Chinese punctuation mark characters, etc. The full-width Chinese punctuation mark keys, together with other extended keys, can be arranged into one or more rows to form an independent area, adjacent to the lower part of the QWERTY keyboard area; The arrangement of the full-width Chinese punctuation marks, including the Chinese full-width commas, periods, and question marks that frequently appear in Chinese input, should be based on the arrangement of the English half-width commas, periods, and question marks in the QWERTY keyboard area, and should be arranged as close as possible for easy input.

2. A Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme, characterized in that, include: The QWERTY keyboard area is based on the standard QWERTY keyboard and is used to input regular English letters, numbers, and other half-width symbols, as well as to work with other extended keys. The Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys are extended keys, consisting of at least four combination keys representing the four tones of Pinyin: high level tone (yinping), rising tone (yangping), falling-rising tone (shangsheng), and falling tone (qusheng). These keys assist in inputting Pinyin vowels with tones, similar to the SHIFT keys on a standard QWERTY keyboard. When inputting, one can hold down a tone key while simultaneously pressing an English key from the a, o, e, i, u, or v area of ​​the QWERTY keyboard. With corresponding software, this allows input of Pinyin vowels with tones such as ā, á, ǎ, à, ō, ó, ǒ, ò, ē, é, ě, è, ī, í, ǐ, ì, ū, ú, ǔ, ù, ǖ, ǘ, ǚ, and ǜ. This can then be applied to character encoding in Chinese Pinyin input methods to reduce homophone rates and improve input speed. The Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys, together with other extended keys, can be arranged in one or more rows to form an independent area, adjacent to the lower part of the QWERTY keyboard area.

3. A Chinese language input keyboard enhancement scheme, characterized in that, include: The QWERTY keyboard area is based on the standard QWERTY keyboard and is used to input regular English letters, numbers, and other half-width symbols, as well as to work with other extended keys. The full-width Chinese punctuation mark key is an extended key that defines commonly used full-width Chinese punctuation marks, including at least the most commonly used full-width Chinese comma, period, semicolon, question mark, exclamation mark, colon, pause mark, and left and right double quotation marks, etc., for quickly typing full-width Chinese punctuation mark characters, etc. The Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys are extended keys, consisting of at least four combination keys representing the four tones of Pinyin: high level tone (yinping), rising tone (yangping), falling-rising tone (shangsheng), and falling tone (qusheng). These keys assist in inputting Pinyin vowels with tones, similar to the SHIFT keys on a standard QWERTY keyboard. When inputting, one can hold down a tone key while simultaneously pressing an English key from the a, o, e, i, u, or v area of ​​the QWERTY keyboard. With corresponding software, this allows input of Pinyin vowels with tones such as ā, á, ǎ, à, ō, ó, ǒ, ò, ē, é, ě, è, ī, í, ǐ, ì, ū, ú, ǔ, ù, ǖ, ǘ, ǚ, and ǜ. This can then be applied to character encoding in Chinese Pinyin input methods to reduce homophone rates and improve input speed. The arrangement of the full-width Chinese punctuation marks, including the Chinese full-width comma, period, and question mark keys that frequently appear in Chinese input, should be arranged as close as possible to the English half-width comma, period, and question mark keys in the QWERTY keyboard area for easy input. The full-width Chinese punctuation keys and the Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys can be arranged together with other extended keys in one or more rows to form an independent area, adjacent to the lower part of the QWERTY keyboard area.

4. The solution according to claim 1, characterized in that, The arrangement of the QWERTY keyboard area includes: Without changing its arrangement, all full-width Chinese punctuation marks are arranged below it; Alternatively, the bottom row of the QWERTY keyboard area, namely the row containing the CTRL key, ALT key, and space bar, can be moved down one or more rows, separating the QWERTY keyboard area into two parts, upper and lower. The space in the middle can be used to insert extended key rows such as the full-width Chinese punctuation mark keys. The significance is that punctuation marks are inputted in large quantities, and moving them to a position close to the fingers makes them easier to input.

5. The solution according to claim 1, characterized in that, The full-width Chinese punctuation mark key includes: Each key can be defined with 1 to 2 full-width Chinese characters. The usage is that you can directly press the key to input the default character or the lower-level character. For keys that define two characters, upper and lower, they can be used in combination with the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area to switch the input of the upper-level character. The usage is the same as the keys in the QWERTY keyboard area.

6. The solution according to claim 1, characterized in that, The full-width Chinese punctuation mark key includes: It can include all or some of the defined full-width Chinese characters, such as left and right single quotes, left and right book title marks, left and right single book title marks, left and right parentheses, left and right square brackets, ellipses, dashes and central dots, etc. It can also include punctuation marks from Chinese regions outside mainland China, such as left and right straight brackets, which can greatly facilitate the input of Chinese punctuation marks and enhance the input of mixed Chinese and English.

7. The solution according to claim 1, characterized in that, include: Additionally, one or two additional full-width / half-width switching combination keys with the same function can be added. When used in combination with the regular English, number, and other half-width character keys in the QWERTY keyboard area and pressed together with the corresponding software, synchronous full-width / half-width switching input can be achieved, that is, the corresponding switching input of regular punctuation marks such as English and numbers with Chinese punctuation marks. Releasing the key will de-switch and automatically restore the original input state. It does not need to rely on the input method's temporary state, making the switching flexible and avoiding incorrect input. It can also be expanded with 1 to 2 full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination keys with the same function, which is equivalent to pressing the full-width / half-width switching combination key and the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area at the same time. When used in combination with the regular English, number and other half-width symbol keys in the QWERTY keyboard area and with the corresponding software, it can not only switch the full-width / half-width input state at the same time, but also switch the key up / down characters or uppercase and lowercase. The significance is to solve the problem that it is difficult for users to press 3 keys at the same time, namely the full-width / half-width switching combination key, the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area and the key in the QWERTY keyboard area; When two identical full-width / half-width switching combination keys and / or two identical full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination keys are extended, they can be arranged at the left and right ends of the same key row, making it convenient for users to input with both hands.

8. The solution according to claim 1, characterized in that, include: It can also be expanded with an LED light occupying one key position to indicate the current full-width or half-width input status in the input method, which can help users correct and reduce input errors.

9. The solution according to claim 1, characterized in that, include: The aforementioned Chinese language input keyboard enhancement solution can be applied to the design and production of hardware or software keyboards and other products to meet user needs.

10. The solution according to claim 1, characterized in that, include: On the computing device side, there is currently no mainstream operating system that supports the full-width Chinese punctuation marks and other key inputs by default. For example, there is no mapping from the keyboard hardware to the operating system's Virtual-Key Code, and then to the final input characters. Therefore, input and conversion can be achieved with corresponding software. If it is later made compatible by default by the mainstream operating system, no auxiliary software outside the operating system will be needed.

11. The solution according to claim 2, characterized in that, The arrangement of the QWERTY keyboard area includes: Without changing its arrangement, all the Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys are arranged below it; Alternatively, the bottom row of the QWERTY keyboard area, namely the row containing the CTRL key, ALT key, and space bar, can be moved down one or more rows, separating the QWERTY keyboard area into two parts, with the space in the middle used to insert extended key rows such as the Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys. The purpose is to move them to a position closer to the fingers for easier input.

12. The solution according to claim 2, characterized in that, The arrangement of the Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys includes: The Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys can be arranged in one group or two identical groups, respectively arranged at the left and right ends of the row where the keys are located, and respectively located below the left and right SHIFT keys in the QWERTY keyboard area, so as to facilitate users to input with both hands.

13. The solution according to claim 2, characterized in that, include: It can also expand the Chinese Pinyin related combination key accent mark ˆ, which can be combined with the English key E in the QWERTY keyboard area and typed together, and with the corresponding software, to realize the input of the special Pinyin vowel character ê, so as to enhance the full Pinyin input method; It can also expand the character key Ê, which allows direct input of the special final character ê in Chinese Pinyin, to enhance the full Pinyin input method.

14. The solution according to claim 2, characterized in that, include: Additionally, the character key Ü can be expanded to allow direct input of the special final character ü in Chinese Pinyin, thereby enhancing the full Pinyin input method; In addition, when combined with the aforementioned Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys, the final characters ǖ, ǘ, ǚ, or ǜ with tones can be input, which can be used to enhance the full Pinyin input method.

15. The solution according to claim 2, characterized in that, include: Additionally, one or two additional full-width / half-width switching combination keys with the same function can be added. When used in combination with the regular English, number, and other half-width character keys in the QWERTY keyboard area and pressed together with the corresponding software, synchronous full-width / half-width switching input can be achieved, that is, the corresponding switching input of regular punctuation marks such as English and numbers with Chinese punctuation marks. Releasing the key will de-switch and automatically restore the original input state. It does not need to rely on the input method's temporary state, making the switching flexible and avoiding incorrect input. It can also be expanded with 1 to 2 full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination keys with the same function, which is equivalent to pressing the full-width / half-width switching combination key and the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area at the same time. When used in combination with the regular English, number and other half-width symbol keys in the QWERTY keyboard area and with the corresponding software, it can not only switch the full-width / half-width input state at the same time, but also switch the key up / down characters or uppercase and lowercase. The significance is to solve the problem that it is difficult for users to press 3 keys at the same time, namely the full-width / half-width switching combination key, the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area and the key in the QWERTY keyboard area; When two identical full-width / half-width switching combination keys and / or two identical full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination keys are extended, they can be arranged at the left and right ends of the same key row, making it convenient for users to input with both hands.

16. The solution according to claim 2, characterized in that, include: It can also be expanded with an LED light occupying one key position to indicate the current full-width or half-width input status in the input method, which can help users correct and reduce input errors.

17. The solution according to claim 2, characterized in that, include: The aforementioned Chinese language input keyboard enhancement solution can be applied to the design and production of hardware or software keyboards and other products to meet user needs.

18. The solution according to claim 2, characterized in that, include: On the computing device side, there is currently no mainstream operating system that supports all the extended Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys by default. For example, there is no mapping from the keyboard hardware to the operating system Virtual-Key Code, and then to the final input character. Therefore, input and conversion can be achieved with corresponding software. If it is later made compatible by default by the mainstream operating system, no auxiliary software other than the operating system will be needed.

19. The solution according to claim 3, characterized in that, The arrangement of the QWERTY keyboard area includes: Without changing its arrangement, the full-width Chinese punctuation marks and the Chinese pinyin tone combination keys are both arranged below it; Alternatively, the bottom row of the QWERTY keyboard area, namely the row containing the CTRL key, ALT key, and space bar, can be moved down one or more rows, separating the QWERTY keyboard area into two parts, with the space in the middle used to insert extended key rows such as the full-width Chinese punctuation marks key and the Chinese Pinyin tone combination key. The purpose is to move them to a position closer to the fingers for easier input.

20. The solution according to claim 3, characterized in that, The full-width Chinese punctuation mark key includes: Each key can be defined with 1 to 2 full-width Chinese characters. The usage is that you can directly press the key to input the default character or the lower-level character. For keys that define two characters, upper and lower, they can be used in combination with the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area to switch the input of the upper-level character. The usage is the same as the keys in the QWERTY keyboard area.

21. The solution according to claim 3, characterized in that, The full-width Chinese punctuation mark key includes: It can include all or some of the defined full-width Chinese characters, such as left and right single quotes, left and right book title marks, left and right single book title marks, left and right parentheses, left and right square brackets, ellipses, dashes and central dots, etc. It can also include punctuation marks from Chinese regions outside mainland China, such as left and right straight brackets, which can greatly facilitate the input of Chinese punctuation marks and enhance the input of mixed Chinese and English.

22. The solution according to claim 3, characterized in that, The arrangement of the Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys includes: The Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys can be arranged in one group or two identical groups, respectively arranged at the left and right ends of the row where the keys are located, and respectively located below the left and right SHIFT keys in the QWERTY keyboard area, so as to facilitate users to input with both hands.

23. The solution according to claim 3, characterized in that, include: It can also expand the Chinese Pinyin related combination key accent mark ˆ, which can be combined with the English key E in the QWERTY keyboard area and typed together, and with the corresponding software, to realize the input of the special Pinyin vowel character ê, so as to enhance the full Pinyin input method; It can also expand the character key Ê, which allows direct input of the special final character ê in Chinese Pinyin, to enhance the full Pinyin input method.

24. The solution according to claim 3, characterized in that, include: Additionally, the character key Ü can be expanded to allow direct input of the special final character ü in Chinese Pinyin, thereby enhancing the full Pinyin input method; In addition, when combined with the aforementioned Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys, the final characters ǖ, ǘ, ǚ, or ǜ with tones can be input, which can be used to enhance the full Pinyin input method.

25. The solution according to claim 3, characterized in that, include: Additionally, one or two additional full-width / half-width switching combination keys with the same function can be added. When used in combination with the regular English, number, and other half-width character keys in the QWERTY keyboard area and pressed together with the corresponding software, synchronous full-width / half-width switching input can be achieved, that is, the corresponding switching input of regular punctuation marks such as English and numbers with Chinese punctuation marks. Releasing the key will de-switch and automatically restore the original input state. It does not need to rely on the input method's temporary state, making the switching flexible and avoiding incorrect input. It can also be expanded with 1 to 2 full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination keys with the same function, which is equivalent to pressing the full-width / half-width switching combination key and the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area at the same time. When used in combination with the regular English, number and other half-width symbol keys in the QWERTY keyboard area and with the corresponding software, it can not only switch the full-width / half-width input state at the same time, but also switch the key up / down characters or uppercase and lowercase. The significance is to solve the problem that it is difficult for users to press 3 keys at the same time, namely the full-width / half-width switching combination key, the SHIFT key in the QWERTY keyboard area and the key in the QWERTY keyboard area; When two identical full-width / half-width switching combination keys and / or two identical full-width / half-width switching + SHIFT combination keys are extended, they can be arranged at the left and right ends of the same key row, making it convenient for users to input with both hands.

26. The solution according to claim 3, characterized in that, include: It can also be expanded with an LED light occupying one key position to indicate the current full-width or half-width input status in the input method, which can help users correct and reduce input errors.

27. The solution according to claim 3, characterized in that, include: The aforementioned Chinese language input keyboard enhancement solution can be applied to the design and production of hardware or software keyboards and other products to meet user needs.

28. The solution according to claim 3, characterized in that, include: On the computing device side, there is currently no mainstream operating system that supports the full-width Chinese punctuation marks and the Chinese Pinyin tone combination keys by default. For example, there is no mapping from the keyboard hardware to the operating system Virtual-Key Code, and then to the final input character. Therefore, input and conversion can be achieved with corresponding software. If it is later supported by the mainstream operating system by default, no auxiliary software other than the operating system will be needed.

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