Hierarchical Database Item Selection Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for selecting items from text-based databases on computing devices, such as mobile phones and PDAs, are cumbersome, requiring multiple key presses, small button accuracy, and constant gaze shifts between keyboards and screens, leading to inefficiency and error-prone character entry.
Innovation Solution
A method that allows selection of database items by presenting word sections or parts of item identifiers at a time, using a hierarchical tree structure to predict likely entries, enabling users to build a larger item identifier through sequential selection, with options presented on-screen for easy access and selection using various input devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional keyboard input methods are used to select items from a database, then character entry capability is achieved, but the number of input actions required increases and user efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the item identifier into multiple parts and presents them sequentially to the user. Instead of requiring the user to type the entire identifier character by character, the system divides it into manageable segments (e.g., first few characters, then next few characters) and presents each segment as a selection option. This segmentation reduces the number of input actions from many individual character presses to a smaller number of segment selections, directly improving productivity while reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-calculating and presenting the next expected part of the item identifier before the user actually needs to input it. Based on the user's previous selections, the system anticipates what the user will select next and prepares the corresponding segment options in advance. This eliminates waiting time and keeps the user continuously engaged in the selection process, improving overall efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If on-screen keyboards are used for text input, then character entry is enabled, but selection accuracy decreases due to small key sizes and finger dexterity limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional keyboard grid layout to a one-dimensional vertical list layout for presenting character segments. Instead of requiring users to locate and press small keys on a compact keyboard, the system displays character segments as a vertical list where each option occupies its own line. This dimensional change allows for larger, more easily tappable targets while maintaining the same information density, significantly improving selection accuracy for users with limited dexterity or vision.
3Loss of information
If traditional text input methods are used, then complete character entry is achieved, but user focus must shift between keyboard and screen, reducing readability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the input interface and the display interface into a single unified location on the screen. Instead of having separate physical keyboards and display areas that require gaze shifts between them, the system presents character segments for selection directly on the display screen in the same area where the user views the item list. This merging eliminates the need to move eyes between different locations, allowing users to maintain focus on the screen throughout the entire selection process, improving both readability and ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for selecting database items from a database, where the database items are indexed by a list of item identifiers. The item identifiers may be in the form of text. An initial display is generated which includes one or more parts of the item identifiers. Selection of the one or more parts may be made and results in the generation of a display of a further one or more parts for selection. The further one or more parts may be selected in order to add to the selected one or more parts to build a larger part or whole of an item identifier. Selection from a large list of item identifiers may be carried out in a relatively short time period.