Keyboard Key Locking via Peripheral Signal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for locking specific keys on a keyboard device during computer operations, such as gaming, require installing software that consumes resources and can cause interruptions, and often necessitate changing hand positions to operate lock keys, leading to errors or interruptions.
Innovation Solution
A keyboard device and locking method that utilize a peripheral device to send locking or unlocking signals to the keyboard, allowing specific keys to be locked or unlocked without installing software on the computer, using a processing module and transmission interface to receive and decode signals from the peripheral device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking software is installed to lock specific keys, then key locking function is achieved, but computer resources are consumed and software conflicts may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the software-based locking mechanism with a hardware-based solution. The keyboard device includes a control unit that directly controls key switches to prevent specific keys from generating input signals, eliminating the need for locking software and reducing computer resource consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The keyboard device performs the locking function autonomously through its built-in control unit and storage unit. The control unit reads locking key information from the storage unit and automatically configures the key switches, allowing the keyboard to lock keys without external software intervention.
2Reliability
If a lock key is added to the keyboard device, then key locking function is achieved, but hand position must be changed during operation which interrupts game play or program operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing keyboard keys serve multiple functions. Specific keys can function as locking keys to lock other keys, eliminating the need for a dedicated lock key. This allows users to lock keys without changing hand position, as the locking function is integrated into the existing key layout.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary that translates key press events into locking actions. When a user presses a designated locking key, the control unit receives the signal, processes it according to stored locking key information, and activates the appropriate key switches to prevent unintended key inputs.
3Reliability
If locking software is used to shield specific keys, then accidental key presses are prevented, but installation inconvenience and software conflicts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the software-based key shielding mechanism with a hardware-based key switch control system. The control unit directly manages the physical state of key switches, providing reliable prevention of accidental key presses without requiring software installation or configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The keyboard device autonomously manages key locking states through its control unit and storage unit. The system automatically configures and maintains locked key states without user intervention for software installation or updates, eliminating installation inconvenience and software conflict issues.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are an input system, a keyboard device and a locking method. The keyboard device includes a key module, a transmission interface and a processing module. The key module includes a plurality of keys. The transmission interface is used for connecting a computer. The processing module is connected to the key module and the transmission interface. The processing module receives a locking signal from the transmission interface and locks at least one key of the key module according to the locking signal making the locked key stop outputting signal to the computer, wherein the locking signal is outputted from a peripheral device connected to the computer. Accordingly, the present invention can achieve the purpose of using a peripheral device to lock and unlock the specific key of the keyboard device.