System and method for controlling computer applications through external hardware buttons

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of computer peripheral control, and particularly relates to a system and a method for controlling a computer application program through an external hardware button, the system comprises an external programmable key device, upper computer configuration software and a computer end control service, and the associated configuration of keys, applications and functions in the applications can be realized. Cross-application dynamic linkage strategy self-definition is supported; the computer end control service collects application running state parameters, executes starting and stopping, function calling or cooperative operation, and has an intelligent adaptation optimization function; the equipment integrates a redundant communication link and a self-diagnosis function, and supports rapid switching of a multi-trigger action mode and scenarized configuration.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application belongs to the technical field of computer peripheral control, and particularly relates to a system and method for controlling computer application programs through external hardware buttons. BACKGROUND

[0002] At present, users mainly rely on traditional mouse and keyboard to operate computer desktop applications, such as opening software, closing windows, and executing specific commands.

[0003] The main defects of the related art are as follows: for users who need to frequently switch or operate specific software, such as designers, programmers, live broadcasters, and office workers, the existing operation method is inefficient and cumbersome; for example, the user needs to move the mouse to position the icon, click to open, or switch windows to find the close button to operate. Although there are some macro command software or keyboard shortcuts, they still need to rely on the input device of the computer itself, and the shortcut combinations are complex and difficult to remember, and cannot provide the direct touch and quickness of physical buttons.

[0004] Therefore, the system and method for controlling computer application programs through external hardware buttons are proposed to solve the above problems. SUMMARY

[0005] The present application aims to solve the technical problems in the background art by providing a system and method for controlling computer application programs through external hardware buttons.

[0006] To achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the present application provides a system for controlling computer application programs through external hardware buttons, which comprises mutually cooperative external programmable key devices, upper computer configuration software, and computer control services, wherein: The external programmable key device has physical keys, wired or wireless communication modules, non-volatile storage modules, state indication modules, and master control modules, which are used to receive user trigger operations, store key and computer desktop application association configuration information and dynamic linkage strategies, collect application running state feedback data, establish a bidirectional data transmission link with the computer and feedback control execution status; The upper computer configuration software runs on the computer end, and is used to identify the external programmable key device, provide key and computer desktop application association configuration function, cross-application function cascade linkage configuration function, and dynamic linkage strategy customization function, and synchronize the association configuration information containing key identification, preset control type, target application related information, and dynamic linkage strategy to the external programmable key device; The computer-side control service runs in the background on the computer and is used to receive control commands sent by the external programmable button device, collect the running status parameters of the target application and related applications in real time, and execute the start and stop of the target application, the call of specific functions within the application, or cross-application collaborative operations according to the control type and dynamic linkage strategy. It also has the function of intelligent adaptation based on the application running status parameters and user operation data, dynamically optimizes the linkage strategy and pushes optimization suggestions to the host computer configuration software, and feeds back the execution results and application status parameters to the external programmable button device to trigger the status indication module to respond.

[0007] Preferably, the preset control types include application start / stop control and application-specific function control; The host computer configuration software allows users to bind specific functions within the application to buttons. The computer-side control service executes the triggering operation of specific functions within the application by calling the programming interface of the target application, simulating shortcut key input, or mapping function commands within the application. It also supports configuring associated buttons and linkage strategies for different internal functions of the same application.

[0008] Preferably, the application running status parameters collected by the computer-side control service include at least one of the following: application process resource usage, current running stage, and window focus status. The execution of the dynamic linkage strategy is based on the running status parameters. When the running status parameters of the target application or related application are detected to meet the preset conditions, the execution order, triggering time or functional intensity of the collaborative operation is automatically adjusted.

[0009] Preferably, the intelligent adaptation function of the computer-side control service generates adaptation analysis results by statistically analyzing the frequency of user key operations, application running status related data, and linkage strategy execution effect data within a preset period. Based on the results, the parameter configuration of the dynamic linkage strategy is dynamically adjusted, or suggestions for optimizing the association between buttons, applications, and functions within applications are pushed to the host computer configuration software. After user confirmation, the association configuration information is automatically updated.

[0010] Preferably, the communication module of the external programmable button device integrates a wired communication unit and a wireless communication unit to form a redundant communication link; The main control module monitors the transmission stability and signal quality of each communication link in real time. When the currently used communication link experiences a transmission abnormality or the signal quality is lower than the preset standard, it automatically switches to another communication link for data transmission. During the switching process, it ensures the continuous transmission of control commands, configuration information and status feedback data.

[0011] Preferably, the main control module of the external programmable button device has a self-diagnostic function, which periodically tests the integrity of the associated configuration information in the storage module, the link connectivity status of the communication module, and the trigger response performance of the button module. When an anomaly is detected, the status indicator module outputs a specific status identifier corresponding to the anomaly type and uploads the anomaly details to the host computer configuration software. The host computer configuration software displays the anomaly category and the corresponding troubleshooting and handling instructions in a visual form.

[0012] Preferably, each physical button of the external programmable button device supports the recognition of multiple trigger action modes, and the host computer configuration software allows different control types, target applications, in-application functions and dynamic linkage strategies to be configured for different trigger action modes of the same physical button. The main control module collects and parses the action feature information triggered by the button, generates a control command corresponding to the trigger action mode, and sends it to the computer control service.

[0013] Preferably, the host computer configuration software supports the creation and storage of multiple scenario-based configuration schemes. Each scenario-based configuration scheme includes independent button identifiers, control types, target application-related information, application-in-application function associations, and dynamic linkage strategies. Users can preset scene switching trigger conditions, which include at least one of manual triggering, timed triggering, and target application running status triggering. After receiving the scene switching command, the computer-side control service calls the corresponding scene-based configuration scheme to update the external programmable button device, thereby realizing rapid configuration switching.

[0014] Furthermore, to achieve the above objectives, this application also proposes a method for controlling a computer application via an external hardware button, characterized by comprising the following steps: S110, establish a bidirectional data transmission link between the external programmable button device and the computer. After the host computer configuration software recognizes the external programmable button device, it provides the association configuration between the button and the computer desktop application, the cross-application function-level linkage configuration, and the dynamic linkage strategy customization operation. The user sets the association configuration information including button identifier, preset control type, target application related information and dynamic linkage strategy through the host computer configuration software. S120, the host computer configuration software synchronizes the associated configuration information to the external programmable key device, which stores it in the non-volatile storage module of the external programmable key device; S130: After receiving a user-triggered operation, the external programmable button device generates control commands based on the stored associated configuration information and sends them to the computer via a two-way data transmission link. S140, the computer-side control service receives the control command, collects the running status parameters of the target application and related applications in real time, and executes the start and stop of the target application, the call of specific functions within the application, or cross-application collaborative operation according to the preset control type and dynamic linkage strategy. S150, the computer-side control service performs statistical analysis based on the collected application running status parameters and user operation data, dynamically optimizes the dynamic linkage strategy, and pushes related configuration optimization suggestions to the host computer configuration software. After user confirmation, it updates the related configuration information and synchronizes it to the external programmable button device. S160, the computer-side control service feeds back the operation execution results and application running status parameters to the external programmable key device, and the external programmable key device outputs the corresponding response through the status indicator module.

[0015] Preferably, in step S130, after the main control module of the external programmable button device receives the user's trigger operation, it first identifies the mode type of the trigger action, and then matches the associated configuration information corresponding to the mode to generate control instructions. The trigger action mode includes at least one of short press, long press, double press and combined press. Preferably, in step S140, the application running status parameters collected by the computer-side control service include at least one of the following: application process resource usage, current running stage, and window focus state. The operation is processed according to the following logic: If the preset control type is application start / stop control, the current status of the target application is determined based on the running status parameters. If the application is not running, a start operation is performed; if the application is running, a stop operation is performed. If the preset control type is application-specific function control, the trigger operation is executed by calling the target application's programming interface, simulating shortcut key input, or mapping application-specific function commands. If the preset control type is cross-application collaborative operation, then based on the running status parameters, the collaborative actions of the target application and related applications will be triggered in the order, timing or intensity set by the dynamic linkage strategy. Preferably, in step S160, the status indication module of the external programmable button device outputs a corresponding prompt icon based on the feedback execution result and application status parameters. When the operation is successful, an execution completion icon is output; when the operation fails or the status is abnormal, a specific prompt icon corresponding to the fault type is output.

[0016] The beneficial effects of this invention are: 1. Highly customizable: Supports association of any button with any desktop application, and the control type can be flexibly selected to adapt to the user's personalized needs; 2. High efficiency: Applications can be started and stopped directly by pressing a button, without the need for mouse / keyboard intermediary operations. The response time is no more than 100ms, which greatly improves the efficiency of operation. 3. Easy configuration: The visual host computer interface simplifies the configuration process, supports automatic application scanning, and can be operated without professional technical background; 4. High reliability: Configuration information is stored non-volatilely and is not lost when the device is powered off; a two-way status feedback mechanism ensures that users can keep track of the control results in real time. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] In the attached diagram: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall system coordination process in this invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the overall process flow of the method in this invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the core control and feedback process in this invention; Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the intelligent adaptation optimization and scenario-based configuration switching process in this invention. Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the redundant communication link switching and device self-diagnosis process in this invention. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, including various details of the embodiments to aid understanding, and should be considered merely exemplary. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications can be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Similarly, for clarity and brevity, descriptions of well-known functions and structures are omitted in the following description.

[0020] Specific implementation examples are given below.

[0021] Please see Figures 1-5 The system for controlling a computer application via an external hardware button, as described in this invention, is composed of three core parts: an external programmable button device, host computer configuration software, and a computer-side control service. The functional implementation and adaptation logic of each part are as follows: The external programmable button device adopts a modular integrated design, and its core components and functions are implemented as follows: The button module is equipped with at least one independent physical button, each button is assigned a unique identifier, supports accurate acquisition of trigger actions, and has an anti-shake processing mechanism to ensure the reliability of the trigger signal.

[0022] The main control module, equipped with a microcontroller, is responsible for collecting button trigger signals, parsing configuration instructions sent by the host computer, retrieving associated configuration information from the storage module, and generating control instructions to send to the computer via the communication module.

[0023] The device will automatically initiate its first self-diagnosis within 3 seconds of power-on, and then trigger it in a default 60-second cycle. Users can also manually initiate the self-diagnosis by sending diagnostic commands via the host computer software. The cycle can be adjusted to between 30 and 300 seconds via the host computer. The self-diagnosis process will not interrupt the transmission of control commands; detection actions and normal data transmission are performed in parallel, occupying no more than 10% of the main control module's computing resources.

[0024] Integrity check of associated configuration information in the storage module: The integrity of the associated configuration information in the storage module is checked segment by segment using the CRC-16 checksum algorithm. When reading configuration information, the CRC-16 checksum of the data is recalculated and compared with the stored checksum. If they match, the data is considered complete; otherwise, the stored data is considered abnormal. The detection range covers all storage sectors of the associated configuration information for all buttons, such as the address range from 0x0000 to 0x0FFF, ensuring no omissions.

[0025] The communication module's link connectivity detection includes three dimensions: physical connection status of wired and wireless links, signal quality, and transmission stability. Regarding physical connection status, it detects the signal level of the wired link communication port and the pairing status of the wireless link's Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. If there is no valid signal level or the link is not paired, it is considered disconnected. Regarding signal quality, for wireless links, a signal strength of -70dBm or higher is considered normal; for wired links, a transmission error rate of 1% or higher is considered normal. Regarding transmission stability, sending a 10-byte fixed-frame test data packet results in three consecutive transmission failures or a packet loss rate of 5% or higher, indicating a link transmission anomaly. During testing, currently active links are checked first, followed by redundant links, ensuring full link coverage.

[0026] The trigger response performance of the button module is tested, including three parameters: button trigger response time, anti-bounce effectiveness, and absence of false triggers. Regarding response time, a simulated button trigger signal is used to test the time it takes for the main control module to receive the signal; a response time of no more than 50ms is considered normal, while a time exceeding this is considered an abnormal response delay. For anti-bounce effectiveness, five consecutive high-frequency trigger signals with 10ms intervals are sent. If the main control module does not misidentify multiple triggers, it is considered normal; otherwise, it is considered an anti-bounce failure. Regarding absence of false triggers, the button signal is continuously tested for 10 seconds in idle mode; no abnormal trigger signal indicates normal operation, otherwise, it is considered a false button trigger. The testing uses a key-by-key loop method, with each key test lasting no more than 100ms to avoid affecting user operation.

[0027] Anomaly Handling Process and Status Indicator Mapping: Anomalies are categorized into Level 1 and Level 2 anomalies based on severity. Level 1 anomalies affect function execution, such as data storage errors or dual-link disconnections. Level 2 anomalies do not affect basic functions, such as weak single-link signals or slight delays in button response. Upon detecting an anomaly, the main control module immediately records the anomaly type, occurrence time, and relevant parameters, such as signal strength values ​​and verification error codes. Based on the anomaly type, the status indicator module outputs a corresponding identifier. Level 1 anomalies are uploaded to the host computer in real time, while Level 2 anomalies are uploaded during the next configuration synchronization.

[0028] The status indication rules are consistent with the original system: Storage data anomalies trigger a yellow light to flash twice per second, and this indicator is only triggered by Level 1 anomalies; in communication link anomalies, a dual-link disconnection is a Level 1 anomaly, corresponding to a solid yellow light, while a single-link anomaly is a Level 2 anomaly, corresponding to a yellow light flashing once per second; button response delay anomalies are a Level 2 anomalies, corresponding to a red light flashing three times per second; button debounce failure or accidental triggering anomalies are Level 1 anomalies, corresponding to a solid red light and a yellow light flashing once per second.

[0029] Anomaly Details and Host Computer Troubleshooting Guide: The uploaded anomaly details include a 1-byte anomaly code, such as 0x01 representing a storage data anomaly, 0x02 representing a dual-link disconnection, a timestamp of the anomaly occurrence time, and key parameter data such as signal strength, verification error code, and response time value. The host computer displays the anomaly information visually in a pop-up window and list format, including the anomaly type, occurrence time, severity level, associated module, and troubleshooting guide.

[0030] Specific troubleshooting guidelines correspond to each anomaly type: For storage data anomalies, it is recommended to resynchronize configuration information. If the anomaly occurs multiple times, check if the storage module is damaged and contact for device replacement; for dual-link disconnections, check if the wired connection is loose and if wireless pairing is ineffective. Re-plug the wired interface or re-pair the wireless device; for single-link weak signals, adjust the distance between the device and the computer to avoid obstruction and prioritize switching to the other communication link; for abnormal button response, clean the surface of the buttons and check if the physical structure of the buttons is stuck. If these steps are ineffective, contact for button module repair.

[0031] The storage module uses a non-volatile storage chip to persistently store complete associated configuration information such as button identifiers, control types, target application information, and dynamic linkage strategies. A verification mechanism is added during data storage to ensure integrity, and the configuration information is not lost after the device is powered off.

[0032] The storage module employs a CRC-16 check mechanism to ensure the integrity of configuration information: each segment of associated configuration information, including button identifiers, control types, etc., is stored by synchronously calculating the CRC-16 check value of that segment of data and writing it into the storage chip along with the configuration data (address allocation: configuration data area 0x0000-0x00FF, check value area 0x0100-0x0101); when the main control module reads the configuration information, it first recalculates the data CRC value and compares it with the stored check value. If they match, the data is determined to be complete; if they do not match, a configuration data anomaly self-diagnosis process is triggered.

[0033] The communication module integrates wired and wireless communication units to form redundant communication links. Both communication methods follow a unified data transmission protocol, enabling bidirectional data transmission and supporting real-time link status detection.

[0034] The unified data transmission protocol frame format followed by the communication module is as follows: frame header (1 byte, fixed as 0xAA) + device identifier (2 bytes) + instruction type (1 byte, such as 0x01=configuration instruction, 0x02=control instruction, 0x03=status feedback instruction) + data length (2 bytes) + data field (N bytes, including button identifier, control type, application information, etc.) + check bit (2 bytes, using CRC-16 check algorithm) + frame trailer (1 byte, fixed as 0x55); The link switching trigger condition is: when the signal strength of the wireless communication unit is not greater than -70dBm or the transmission error rate of the wired communication unit is not less than 1%, the link will automatically switch to another link. The switching response time is not greater than 100ms to ensure that no control commands are lost.

[0035] The status indicator module configures a corresponding status indicator unit for each physical button, and provides feedback on the button configuration status (configured / not configured), control execution status (success / failure) and device operation status (normal / abnormal) through different status modes (constant light, flashing, color switching).

[0036] The specific status mapping rules of the status indicator module are as follows: 1. Button configuration status: solid red light = not configured, solid green light = configured; 2. Control execution status: green light flashing once / second = executing, solid green light = execution successful, red light flashing once / second = execution failed; 3. Device operation status: solid yellow light = communication link abnormal, yellow light flashing twice / second = storage data abnormal, no light = device not powered on; The brightness of all status indicators is uniformly set to 200 cd / ㎡ to ensure clear identification under different ambient light conditions.

[0037] The host computer configuration software runs on a computer and provides a visual operation interface. The implementation logic of its core functions is as follows: Device identification and connection: Automatically scans the computer's currently available communication ports, identifies connected external programmable button devices, establishes a communication link, and displays the device's core information, including the number of buttons, communication method, and current status, on the configuration interface.

[0038] The application search and selection feature includes an automatic scanning function. It accesses the registration information of installed applications by calling system interfaces, retrieves relevant information about desktop applications installed on the computer, and displays it. It also supports users manually entering the path of the application's executable file to select the target application.

[0039] Button function and linkage strategy configuration: Users can select any button in the configuration interface, set its control type as application start / stop control or application-specific function control, and bind it to the target application or application-specific function; the configuration interface provides a dynamic linkage strategy customization area, supporting users to select specific linkage types: sequential linkage is set to start adjacent applications at an interval of 500ms; conditional linkage is triggered when the target application's memory usage is no more than 80%; associated linkage is set to start the target and associated applications simultaneously, and the linked applications, trigger conditions, and execution rules can be set.

[0040] Configuration information synchronization and backup: After the user completes the configuration, the software will package the associated configuration information according to the preset protocol, send it to the external programmable button device through the communication link, and store it in the device storage module; at the same time, it supports backing up the configuration information to a specified path on the local computer, and provides configuration import, export and restore functions.

[0041] The status feedback display shows the configuration status of each button, the running status of the target application, and the connection status of the communication link in real time on the configuration interface. The status information is updated in real time through interaction with the computer-side control service.

[0042] The computer-based control service is deployed on the computer in a background operation mode. The implementation logic of its core functions is as follows: Command reception and parsing: continuously monitors the communication link, receives control commands sent by external programmable key devices, and parses out key identifiers, control types, target application information, and linkage strategy parameters according to preset protocols.

[0043] Application status detection obtains the current running status (running or closed) of the target application and related applications by calling the system process detection interface. At the same time, it collects application running status parameters, including resource usage, running stage, window focus status, etc.

[0044] Application control and collaborative operation: Application start / stop control, based on the parsed control type, performs a start operation if the target application is not running, and a stop operation if it is already running, by calling the system application control interface.

[0045] In-app specific function control can trigger the execution of specific functions within the app by calling the target app's programming interface, simulating preset shortcut key input, or mapping in-app function commands.

[0046] Cross-application collaborative operation: Based on dynamic linkage strategies and collected application running status parameters, it executes collaborative actions between the target application and related applications according to preset rules, and the execution order, triggering timing or function execution intensity can be adjusted.

[0047] The execution parameters for the cross-application collaborative operation are as follows: 1. Sequential linkage: The start and stop interval between adjacent applications is set to 500ms, which can be adjusted through the host computer configuration, with an adjustment range of 100ms-2000ms; 2. Conditional linkage: The triggering conditions are quantified into detectable parameters such as the target application's memory usage not exceeding 80% and the existence of the associated application process (PID non-zero); 3. Priority rules: In the live streaming scenario, the live streaming main program has the highest priority (it is prohibited from being interrupted by other linkage operations), and in the office scenario, the document editing application has a higher priority than the email client. The priority can be manually adjusted and sorted through the host computer.

[0048] The intelligent adaptation function collects user key operation data, application running status related data, and linkage strategy execution effect data at preset cycles to generate adaptation analysis results. Based on the results, it dynamically adjusts the linkage strategy parameters or pushes optimization suggestions for the association between keys, applications, and functions within applications to the host computer configuration software. After user confirmation, it automatically updates the association configuration information and synchronizes it to external programmable key devices.

[0049] The statistical period for the intelligent adaptation function is set to a natural day (24 hours). The statistical dimensions include: single button trigger frequency per day (unit: times / day), trigger time distribution (divided into 30-minute periods), application linkage execution success rate (number of successful executions and total number of triggers), and user adoption rate of optimization suggestions. When generating adaptation analysis results, a weighted average algorithm is used, with the following weights: trigger frequency (40%), linkage success rate (30%), and adoption rate (30%). When the trigger frequency of an application associated with a certain button is not less than 10 times within 3 days and the linkage success rate is not greater than 60%, suggestions for adjusting the linkage strategy are automatically pushed. The suggestions include directly executable configuration schemes such as prioritizing the launch of the target application and delaying the launch of the associated application by 200ms.

[0050] After the application control operation is completed, the execution result (success or failure) and the current running status parameters of the application are fed back to the external programmable button device, triggering the corresponding status response of the status indicator module.

[0051] The core components and detailed definitions of associated configuration information include the encoding rules, allocation and storage methods, and association logic of button identifiers; the sub-type division of preset control types, configuration option settings, and execution logic descriptions; the core field definitions, configuration method introductions, and verification mechanism design of target application-related information; and the determination of linkage objects, type classification, parameter settings, and adjustment mechanism descriptions for dynamic linkage strategies.

[0052] The associated configuration information storage format, transmission protocol, and integrity verification mechanism include a three-layer verification design: binary storage structure definition, bidirectional transmission protocol frame format specification, storage verification logic, transmission verification logic, and configuration validity verification logic.

[0053] The application examples of associated configuration information cover specific configuration instances in professional design scenarios and daily office scenarios, clearly defining the actual values ​​of the four main components.

[0054] The system's processing logic for associated configuration information involves three core modules: external programmable button devices, host computer configuration software, and computer-side control services. It includes specific operation instructions for storage processing, instruction generation, configuration editing, instruction parsing, and intelligent optimization.

[0055] The following describes in detail the specific implementation process of the method of the present invention, in conjunction with the above-described system for controlling computer applications via external hardware buttons: Step S110, Device Connection and Configuration: Establish a two-way data transmission link between the external programmable button device and the computer. After the device is powered on, it enters a connection-ready state. Start the host computer configuration software. The software will automatically identify the connected external programmable button device and display the core information of the device in the configuration interface, including the number of buttons, communication method and current status. Users can configure the association between buttons and desktop applications, set control types, and customize dynamic linkage strategies through the corresponding function areas of the host computer configuration software, forming association configuration information that includes button identifiers, preset control types, target application information, and dynamic linkage strategies.

[0056] Step S120, Synchronize configuration information: The host computer configuration software packages the user-defined associated configuration information according to a preset protocol and sends it to the external programmable button device through a bidirectional data transmission link. After receiving the data, the external programmable button device verifies the data integrity through the main control module and completes the non-volatile storage of the associated configuration information through the storage module.

[0057] Step S130, Triggering and Command Transmission: Users can trigger operations on target buttons of external programmable button devices, such as short press, long press, double-click, or any other trigger action mode. After the device's main control module detects the trigger signal, it confirms the trigger is valid after anti-shake processing, retrieves the associated configuration information corresponding to the button from the storage module, generates control commands, and sends them to the computer via a bidirectional data transmission link.

[0058] Step S140, Instruction processing and execution: The computer-based control service receives control commands and parses out key information according to a preset protocol, such as button identifiers, control types, target applications, and linkage strategies. The computer-side control service calls the system interface to collect the running status parameters of the target application and related applications, and detects their current running status; Based on the parsed control type and the collected operating status parameters, the corresponding operation is executed: if it is an application start / stop control, the start or stop operation is executed according to the current state of the application; if it is a specific function control within the application, the function is triggered to execute through a preset method; if it is a cross-application collaborative operation, the collaborative action of the target application and related applications is executed according to the dynamic linkage strategy.

[0059] Step S150, Intelligent Adaptation Optimization: The computer-based control service periodically collects user key press operation data, application running status data, and linkage strategy execution effect data, generating adaptation analysis results. Based on these results, it dynamically optimizes the parameter configuration of the dynamic linkage strategy or pushes related configuration optimization suggestions to the host computer configuration software. After the user views the optimization suggestions on the online configuration interface and confirms their adoption, the software automatically updates the related configuration information and synchronizes it to the external programmable key device, completing the configuration update.

[0060] Step S160, Result Feedback: The computer-side control service feeds back the operation execution result of step S140 and the current running status parameters of the application to the external programmable button device through a two-way data transmission link; after receiving the feedback information, the device main control module outputs the corresponding prompt icon to provide feedback on the operation execution status and the application running status.

[0061] The system and method of this invention are applicable to various scenarios where computer application operations need to be simplified. The following are application examples of core scenarios: Professional Design Scenarios: Users frequently use multiple design applications and need to quickly trigger commonly used functions within these applications. This system allows for the configuration of dedicated scenarios, binding specific buttons to core design applications and linked resource management applications, setting association and linkage strategies, and enabling one-click launch of the entire set of design tools. Simultaneously, it binds corresponding buttons to frequently used application functions, such as brush tools, selection tools, and file export functions, allowing for quick triggering without menu navigation or shortcut memorization. The intelligent adaptation function automatically associates frequently used resource files or preset configurations based on user habits, further improving design operation efficiency.

[0062] Daily office scenarios: Users need to frequently switch between office applications and have cross-application data collaboration requirements. Configure office scenarios: Bind buttons to office applications such as document editing, data statistics, and email sending / receiving, and set sequential linkage strategies to achieve cross-application collaboration from launching the data statistics application, completing data calculations, to automatically synchronizing to the document editing application; support scheduled or manual scenario switching to adapt to different needs of daily office work and temporary task processing, reducing repetitive operation steps.

[0063] Live Streaming Operation Scenario: During a live stream, users need to run multiple applications simultaneously, including live streaming tools, sound effect control, and interaction management, and require rapid response to operations. Live Streaming Scenario Configuration: Bind buttons to the main live streaming program, background music control, and interactive function switches, setting conditional linkage strategies, such as automatically turning on background music at a preset volume after the live streaming program starts; configure multiple functions for the same button through different trigger action modes, such as short press to switch background music and long press to turn off interactive functions, avoiding distractions from complex operations during the live stream and ensuring smooth streaming.

[0064] This system, through a collaborative architecture of external programmable button devices, host computer configuration software, and computer-side control services, enables full-link custom configuration of button identification, control type, target application, and linkage strategy. It breaks through the limitation of traditional external buttons that can only start and stop applications, and supports specific function control within an application and cross-application collaborative operation.

[0065] The dynamic linkage strategy is based on the application's running status parameters and can flexibly adjust the execution logic of collaborative operations according to the actual running conditions, avoiding operational conflicts caused by mechanical execution. The intelligent adaptation function realizes dynamic optimization of linkage strategies and pushes configuration suggestions through statistical analysis of user operation data and application running data, enabling the system to gradually adapt to users' usage habits.

[0066] Redundant communication links enable seamless switching through real-time link status monitoring, ensuring continuous transmission of control commands, configuration information, and status feedback data, and preventing system failure due to a single link failure. The device's self-diagnostic function periodically checks the integrity of stored data, link connectivity, and key response performance, promptly identifying and reporting abnormal states. Combined with the troubleshooting guidance from the host computer, this reduces the difficulty of maintenance for users.

[0067] The multi-trigger action mode allows the same button to control multiple functions through different triggering methods, reducing the dependence on the number of physical buttons; the scenario-based configuration function supports the storage and quick switching of multiple configuration schemes, which can adapt to the operational needs of different usage scenarios with one click.

[0068] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the various forms of processes shown above can be used, with steps reordered, added, or deleted. For example, the steps described in this disclosure can be executed in parallel, sequentially, or in different orders, as long as the desired results of the technical solutions provided in this disclosure can be achieved, and no limitation is imposed herein.

[0069] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions can be made according to design requirements and other factors. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this disclosure should be included within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A system for controlling a computer application via an external hardware button, characterized in that, This includes interconnected external programmable keypad devices, host computer configuration software, and computer-based control services, among which: The external programmable button device has physical buttons, a communication module that supports wired and wireless dual modes, a non-volatile storage module, a status indicator module and a main control module. It is used to receive user-triggered operations, store the association configuration information and dynamic linkage strategy between the buttons and the computer desktop application, collect application running status feedback data, establish a two-way data transmission link with the computer and provide feedback on the control execution status. The host computer configuration software runs on the computer and is used to identify the identity of the external programmable button device and the hardware adaptation information of the number of buttons and communication method, so as to establish communication and adapt the configuration function. It also provides the association configuration function between the buttons and the computer desktop application, the cross-application function-level linkage configuration function, and the dynamic linkage strategy customization function. It synchronizes the association configuration information including button identification, preset control type, target application related information and dynamic linkage strategy to the external programmable button device. The computer-side control service runs in the background on the computer and is used to receive control commands sent by the external programmable button device, collect the running status parameters of the target application and related applications in real time, and execute the start and stop of the target application, the call of specific functions within the application, or cross-application collaborative operations according to the preset control type and dynamic linkage strategy. It also has an intelligent adaptation function based on the application running status parameters and user operation data, can dynamically optimize the linkage strategy, and push corresponding optimization suggestions to the host computer configuration software. At the same time, it feeds back the execution results and application status parameters to the external programmable button device to trigger the status indication module to respond.

2. The system for controlling a computer application via an external hardware button according to claim 1, characterized in that, The preset control types include application start / stop control and application-specific function control; The host computer configuration software allows users to bind specific functions within the application to buttons. The computer-side control service executes the triggering operation of specific functions within the application by calling the programming interface of the target application, simulating shortcut key input, or mapping function commands within the application. It also supports configuring associated buttons and linkage strategies for different internal functions of the same application.

3. The system for controlling a computer application via an external hardware button according to claim 1, characterized in that, The application running status parameters collected by the computer-side control service include at least one of the following: application process resource usage, current running stage, and window focus status. The execution of the dynamic linkage strategy is based on the running status parameters. When the running status parameters of the target application or related application are detected to meet the preset conditions, the execution order, triggering time or functional intensity of the collaborative operation is automatically adjusted.

4. The system for controlling a computer application via an external hardware button according to claim 1, characterized in that, The intelligent adaptation function of the computer-side control service generates adaptation analysis results by statistically analyzing the frequency of user key operations, application running status related data, and linkage strategy execution effect data within a preset period. Based on the results, the parameter configuration of the dynamic linkage strategy is dynamically adjusted, or suggestions for optimizing the association between buttons, applications, and functions within applications are pushed to the host computer configuration software. After user confirmation, the association configuration information is automatically updated.

5. The system for controlling a computer application via an external hardware button according to claim 1, characterized in that, The communication module of the external programmable button device integrates a wired communication unit and a wireless communication unit to form a redundant communication link; The main control module monitors the transmission stability and signal quality of each communication link in real time. When the currently used communication link experiences a transmission abnormality or the signal quality is lower than the preset standard, it automatically switches to another communication link for data transmission. During the switching process, it ensures the continuous transmission of control commands, configuration information and status feedback data.

6. The system for controlling a computer application via an external hardware button according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main control module of the external programmable button device has a self-diagnostic function, which periodically tests the integrity of the associated configuration information in the storage module, the link connectivity status of the communication module, and the trigger response performance of the button module. When an anomaly is detected, the status indicator module outputs a specific status identifier corresponding to the anomaly type and uploads the anomaly details to the host computer configuration software. The host computer configuration software displays the anomaly category and the corresponding troubleshooting and handling instructions in a visual form.

7. The system for controlling a computer application via an external hardware button according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each physical button of the external programmable button device supports the recognition of multiple trigger action modes. The host computer configuration software allows different control types, target applications, in-application functions, and dynamic linkage strategies to be configured for different trigger action modes of the same physical button. The main control module collects and parses the action feature information triggered by the button, generates a control command corresponding to the trigger action mode, and sends it to the computer control service.

8. The system for controlling a computer application via an external hardware button according to claim 1, characterized in that... The host computer configuration software supports the creation and storage of multiple scenario-based configuration schemes. Each scenario-based configuration scheme includes independent button identifiers, control types, target application-related information, application-in-application function associations, and dynamic linkage strategies. Users can preset scene switching trigger conditions, which include at least one of manual triggering, timed triggering, and target application running status triggering. After receiving the scene switching command, the computer-side control service calls the corresponding scene-based configuration scheme to update the external programmable button device, thereby realizing rapid configuration switching.

9. A method for controlling a computer application via an external hardware button, applied to the system for controlling a computer application via an external hardware button as described in any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S110: Establish a bidirectional data transmission link between the external programmable button device and the computer. After the host computer configuration software recognizes the external programmable button device, it provides the association configuration between the button and the computer desktop application, the cross-application function-level linkage configuration, and the dynamic linkage strategy customization operation. The user sets the association configuration information including button identifier, preset control type, target application related information and dynamic linkage strategy through the host computer configuration software. S120: The host computer configuration software synchronizes the associated configuration information to the external programmable key device, which stores it in the non-volatile storage module of the external programmable key device; S130: After receiving a user-triggered operation, the external programmable button device generates control commands based on the stored associated configuration information and sends them to the computer via a two-way data transmission link. S140: The computer-side control service receives the control command, collects the running status parameters of the target application and related applications in real time, and executes the start and stop of the target application, the call of specific functions within the application, or cross-application collaborative operation according to the preset control type and dynamic linkage strategy. S150: The computer-side control service performs statistical analysis based on the collected application running status parameters and user operation data, dynamically optimizes the dynamic linkage strategy, and pushes related configuration optimization suggestions to the host computer configuration software. After user confirmation, it updates the related configuration information and synchronizes it to the external programmable button device. S160: The computer-side control service feeds back the operation execution results and application running status parameters to the external programmable button device, which outputs the corresponding response through the status indicator module.

10. The method for controlling a computer application via an external hardware button according to claim 9, characterized in that... In step S130, after the main control module of the external programmable button device receives the user's trigger operation, it first identifies the mode type of the trigger action, and then matches the associated configuration information corresponding to the mode to generate control instructions. The trigger action mode includes at least one of short press, long press, double press and combined press.

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