Cursor Control Mode Adaptation for Portable Devices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cursor control systems in electronic devices with graphical user interfaces are prone to usability issues due to sensitivity, leading to unintentional navigation outside menus or incorrect cursor steering, especially in portable devices used under challenging conditions.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that dynamically adjust cursor control directions based on the current mode of the device, using a set of predetermined directions specific to each mode, and incorporating force feedback to enhance user feedback and navigation precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a joystick or cursor control device supports multiple directions, then the number of directions is increased, but the device becomes too sensitive causing unintentional navigation outside menus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the set of predetermined directions based on the current mode of the electronic apparatus. When in menu navigation mode, only vertical directions (up/down) are permitted, preventing horizontal exits. When in drawing mode, all directions are enabled. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by making the system versatile when needed and reliable when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of allowed directions based on the operational context. By modifying which directions are permitted in the predetermined set based on the current mode (menu vs. drawing), the system achieves both multi-directional capability when required and precise control when required, eliminating the sensitivity problem.
2Ease of operation
If a joystick supports multiple directions for complex services, then navigation capability is improved, but the risk of unintentional menu exit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by preemptively restricting certain directions before the user can accidentally navigate outside the menu. By allowing only vertical movements during menu navigation, the system prevents potential harmful actions (horizontal exits) before they can occur, while still maintaining full navigation capability within the menu structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the cursor control device based on context. In menu mode, the parameter set is restricted to vertical directions only, preventing harmful navigation errors. In drawing mode, all directional parameters are enabled, providing full navigation capability without risk of menu exit.
3Manufacturing precision
If cursor control is highly sensitive for drawing figures, then drawing precision is improved, but menu navigation stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the cursor control sensitivity dynamic rather than static. The system automatically adjusts the permitted directions based on the current operational mode. During menu navigation, only stable vertical movements are allowed. During drawing operations, full sensitivity in all directions is enabled. This dynamic behavior allows the system to achieve both drawing precision and menu stability without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different control qualities to different operational contexts. Local quality is achieved by permitting restricted directional movement specifically during menu navigation while allowing full directional sensitivity during drawing operations. This contextual differentiation allows optimal performance characteristics for each specific task without compromising the other.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, an electronic apparatus and a computer program product for controlling a cursor in a graphical user interface are disclosed. A direction signal is received from a cursor control device. Thereafter, a current mode is determined for said electronic apparatus in response to an actuation of an element of said GUI. After that, said direction signal is related to a set of predetermined directions, wherein said set of predetermined directions depends on said current mode. Next, said direction signal is classified into one direction of said set of predetermined directions, and, thereafter, said cursor is moved according to said one direction.