Mobile Device Gesture Control for Application Function Invocation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mobile devices require multiple steps and application-dependent methods to invoke additional functions, such as the memo function, which complicates user convenience.

Innovation Solution

A method and mobile device that allow quick invocation of additional functions through gesture inputs, using a gesture table to map gestures to specific functions, enabling consistent access regardless of the running application, with the control unit detecting gestures and invoking corresponding functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple steps and application-dependent methods are used to invoke additional functions, then the device can provide comprehensive function options, but user convenience deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction optionsVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by creating a unified gesture-based interface that works across all applications. Instead of requiring different invocation methods for different applications, the system uses a single gesture recognition mechanism (detecting finger movements on the touch screen) that universally triggers additional functions regardless of which application is currently running. This resolves the contradiction by making the operation method consistent while maintaining comprehensive function availability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces gesture recognition as an intermediary between the user and the additional functions. Rather than directly requiring users to navigate through menus or press specific keys, the gesture serves as a mediator that translates simple user input (finger movement) into the appropriate function invocation. This intermediary layer simplifies the interaction while maintaining access to all functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If different invocation methods are used for different applications, then each application can be optimized for its specific function, but the complexity of operation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication-specific function accessVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements a universal gesture recognition framework that handles all application-specific function invocations through a single mechanism. The control unit detects gestures and maps them to appropriate functions across all applications, eliminating the need for users to learn different invocation methods for different applications. This reduces operational complexity while preserving application-specific functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a menu key selection process is used to access additional functions, then all functions can be listed and selected, but the time required to invoke functions increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction accessibilityVSAvoidfunction invocation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining gesture-to-function mappings in a gesture table stored in the control unit. Instead of requiring users to navigate through menus in real-time, the system has pre-established the correspondence between gestures and functions. When a gesture is detected, the control unit quickly retrieves the associated function from the pre-stored gesture table, significantly reducing the time required to invoke functions while maintaining comprehensive accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical menu navigation system (requiring sequential key presses and selections) with a direct gesture-based activation system. Instead of mechanically navigating through hierarchical menus, users perform a single gesture that directly triggers the desired function through gesture recognition and table lookup, substantially reducing the time and steps required for function invocation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP2685367B1Method and apparatus for operating additional function in mobile device
Publication Date: 2022.01.19 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP2685367B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2685367B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2685367B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A method and apparatus for easily operating an additional function associated with an application are provided in a mobile device. In the method, the apparatus detects a gesture inputted while a specific application is running, and invokes an additional function corresponding to the detected gesture. Also, the apparatus displays an execution screen that contains at least one link item for offering a connection with the specific application. Furthermore, when a signal for selecting the link item is inputted, the apparatus applies an execution result of the additional function to the specific application. The inventive method and apparatus thus enhance a user's convenience.