Software Keyboard Mode Switching via Palm Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing on-screen keyboard systems require users to switch modes by locating a mode-switching button, disrupting continuous key input operations and imposing posture restrictions due to the need for a palm rest area for mode detection.

Innovation Solution

A processor-controlled system that determines the operational state of a keyboard and switches input modes between character input and pointing device modes based on the state, allowing seamless transitions without the need for a mode-switching button or palm rest area, by modifying the display and functionality of the software keyboard.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a mode-switching button is provided on the software keyboard, then the software keyboard can function as both keyboard and touch pad, but the user must look away from the display to locate the button, interrupting continuous key input operations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedual functionality of software keyboardVSAvoidcontinuous key input operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects palm presence on the touch panel and autonomously switches between keyboard mode and touch pad mode without requiring user intervention to locate or press a mode-switching button. This eliminates the need for users to look away from the display while maintaining dual functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical button-pressing action with an automated detection system that uses touch panel sensing to identify palm presence and trigger mode switching. This substitution eliminates the need for physical mode-switching buttons and enables seamless transitions between input modes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Extent of automation

If a palm rest area is provided on the touch panel for detecting palm to switch modes, then mode switching can be automated, but this restricts the configuration of the software keyboard and requires users to maintain specific posture

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated mode switchingVSAvoiduser posture flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The touch panel serves multiple functions: it acts as both the display surface for the software keyboard and the sensing area for palm detection. By making the entire touch panel area functional for both keyboard display and palm detection, the system eliminates the need for dedicated palm rest areas while maintaining automated mode switching capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the operational parameters of the touch panel dynamically based on detected palm presence. When a palm is detected, the system transitions from keyboard input mode to touch pad mode, allowing users to operate in their natural posture without being constrained by fixed palm rest requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10942647B2Keyboard input mode switching apparatus, systems, and methods

Publication Date: 2021.03.09 LENOVO SWITZERLAND INTERNATIONAL GMBH

AI summary

A keyboard input mode switching apparatus includes a processor for an information handling device and a memory that stores code executable by the processor. The code is executable by the processor to determine an operational state of a keyboard and, in response to detecting a particular operational state, switch an input mode of a portion of the keyboard.