Mobile Extension List Selection via Segmented Dialog
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile communication devices lack an efficient method for users to select and dial extensions associated with a single telephone number stored in the address book, as they only provide a dialog screen with limited options after dialing, which can be cumbersome when multiple extensions are available.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for providing extension list selection in mobile communication devices, where multiple extensions are stored within a single address book entry, allowing the device to sense dialing and connection establishment, and displaying a screen dialog with each extension and its associated name for user selection after connecting to a telephony apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single dialog screen with limited options is provided after dialing, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates when multiple extensions are available
Solution Approach 1:
The dialog screen is segmented into multiple pages, with each page displaying a subset of extensions. Users can navigate through pages using left/right arrow keys, allowing the system to present multiple extensions without overwhelming the user with a single complex screen. This resolves the contradiction by distributing extensions across multiple simpler screens.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a temporal dimension to the extension selection process by implementing multi-page navigation. Instead of presenting all extensions simultaneously in one spatial dimension, the system distributes them across multiple time-based pages, allowing users to access extensions sequentially through keyboard navigation. This transforms the problem from a spatial layout challenge to a temporal interaction solution.
2Ease of operation
If all extensions are displayed on a single screen, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extension list is segmented across multiple dialog pages rather than forcing all extensions onto a single screen. Each page contains a manageable subset of extensions with consistent navigation controls, reducing the visual complexity on each individual screen while maintaining access to all extensions through page navigation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple extensions are stored in a single address book entry, then the adaptability is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each extension within the address book entry is assigned unique local qualities including individual extension numbers, descriptive names, and optional personal identifiers. This allows the system to differentiate and present each extension with its specific characteristics, making it easier for users to identify and select the correct extension even when multiple are stored under a single telephone number.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure is directed at a method of providing extension list dialing in a mobile communication device comprising storing a plurality of extensions within a single address book entry; sensing dialing of a phone number associated with the single address book entry; sensing connection between the mobile communication device and the phone number to establish a call; and displaying a screen dialog with each of the plurality of extensions for selection of one of the plurality of extensions.