Button Programming via PC Application for Communication Terminals
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for assigning function keys on communication terminals are cumbersome, error-prone, and time-consuming, especially when additional information needs to be entered, leading to complex key assignments and inefficient menu navigation.
Innovation Solution
A method where user input on a communication terminal activates an application on a data processing device, which displays and allows selection of key assignment information, transmitting key information to suppress invalid options and provide a simplified menu navigation, supported by a wizard or assistant for step-by-step operation, and integrated help features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional menu control methods are used for key assignment, then comprehensive key function options can be provided, but the programming process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
A computer application acts as an intermediary between the user and the telephone system's key assignment functionality. The application retrieves available key functions from the telephone, presents them in a user-friendly interface, and transmits the user's selections back to the telephone, thereby simplifying the programming process while maintaining comprehensive function options
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual menu navigation process with an automated computer application that programmatically interacts with the telephone system. This substitution eliminates the need for users to manually navigate through multiple menu levels and pressing specific key sequences, significantly reducing programming time
2Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive key assignment options are displayed, then users can select from multiple functions, but the menu control becomes complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the key assignment process into distinct components: retrieving available functions, presenting them in an organized interface, allowing user selection, and transmitting the assignment. This segmentation transforms a complex monolithic menu system into manageable, user-friendly steps
Solution Approach 2:
The computer application serves as an intermediary that filters, organizes, and presents key assignment options in a simplified manner. It handles the complexity of interacting with the telephone system's menu structure while presenting a clean, error-resistant interface to the user
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional information must be entered during key programming, then more comprehensive key assignments can be created, but the programming process becomes more cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The computer application automatically retrieves information about available key functions, their parameters, and valid options from the telephone system itself. This self-service approach eliminates the need for users to manually look up or remember specific parameters, allowing comprehensive key assignments to be created through simple selection rather than complex data entry
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method, a terminal device, and a communication system for programming a button (FK) of a communication terminal device (EG1), whereby a user input on the communication terminal device (EG1) activates an application (APPL) on a data processing device (PC) associated with the communication terminal device (EG1). The activated application (APPL) triggers the display of button programming information for selection for a respective button programming. The selection of one of the displayed button programming information messages on the data processing device (PC) triggers the assignment of the associated button programming to the button (FK) on the communication terminal device (EG1).