Mobile Terminal Automatic Input Mode Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Typing characters, especially currency symbols, on mobile devices with numerical keypads is cumbersome due to the need for frequent mode changes between different input modes, which is inefficient and time-consuming.

Innovation Solution

A method that automatically switches between alphanumerical and numerical input modes upon recognizing currency identifiers, such as currency symbols, allowing for convenient and swift input of combinations of characters without the need for manual mode toggling, using a communication terminal or computer program product.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual mode switching is used to input currency symbols and numbers, then input accuracy is improved, but input speed deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinput accuracyVSAvoidinput speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects currency symbols and switches input modes without user intervention. When a currency symbol is detected, the system self-service switches to numerical mode, and when a space key is detected, it self-service switches back to alphanumerical mode, eliminating the need for manual mode switching while maintaining input accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback from detected key inputs (currency symbols and space keys) to automatically adjust the input mode. The detection of specific characters triggers automatic mode switching, creating a feedback loop that adapts the input mode based on the context of the input being provided

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If frequent mode switching is required for currency input, then character set coverage is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharacter set coverageVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically manages mode switching based on detected currency symbols and space keys, serving itself rather than requiring user intervention. This maintains comprehensive character set coverage while significantly improving ease of operation by eliminating manual toggling

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system prepares for mode switching by detecting currency symbols in advance, automatically transitioning to the appropriate mode before the user needs to input numerical values. This preliminary detection and automatic preparation simplifies the user's interaction while maintaining full character set versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If multiple key inputs are required for mode switching, then input precision is improved, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinput precisionVSAvoidtime for mode switching
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs automatic mode switching upon detecting currency symbols and space keys, eliminating the time-consuming manual toggling process. This self-service approach maintains input precision while dramatically reducing the time required for mode transitions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system skips the manual mode switching steps entirely by automatically detecting currency symbols and space keys, and directly transitioning between modes. This rushes through what would normally be multiple key input steps, reducing time loss while maintaining input precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #21Skipping (Rushing through)

Data Source

PatentUS7853276B2Mobile communication terminal and method
Publication Date: 2010.12.14 NOKIA TECHNOLOGIES OY
  • US7853276B2 patent drawing
  • US7853276B2 patent drawing
  • US7853276B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for providing convenient switching between modes of character input on a communication terminal in connection with currency input. The method includes in a first mode of input, receiving at least one alphanumerical input character, recognizing at least one alphanumerical input character from a set of predetermined currency identifiers, and switching to a second mode of input.