Roll-key Input Mechanism for Mobile Terminal Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile communication terminals with roll-keys face inconvenience when displaying numerous items, as users must press side buttons multiple times to navigate, and there is a lack of methods for utilizing roll-keys effectively in various applications.
Innovation Solution
A mobile communication terminal with a roll-key that outputs signals based on rotational actions, a control unit for executing hot-key operations, and a display unit for implementing corresponding functions, along with pushbuttons for additional input, enhancing user convenience by displaying an arrangement configuration and preventing unintentional function implementations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If side buttons are used for navigation, then the terminal can be operated with simple buttons, but users must press the button multiple times which is inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing static button pressing with dynamic roller rotation. The roller can be rotated continuously to move the cursor rapidly through multiple items, transforming discrete incremental navigation into continuous fluid navigation, thereby reducing the time and effort required to navigate through numerous displayed items.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical button-pressing system with a roller rotation system. Instead of pressing a button repeatedly to incrementally move the cursor, the user rotates the roller which directly translates rotational motion into cursor movement, providing a more efficient and less time-consuming navigation method.
2Productivity
If the roll-key is always responsive, then function access is quick, but unintentional operations may occur during slide movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by setting the terminal into a hold mode before slide movement occurs. The control unit predicts or detects the upcoming slide action and temporarily disables roll-key input in advance, preventing unintentional operations before they can happen. This proactive approach maintains reliability while allowing quick function access when the terminal is in normal mode.
3Productivity
If hot-key functions are assigned to roll-key rotation, then operation efficiency is improved, but user confirmation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by displaying a confirmation image on the screen that shows the function which will be executed upon completing the rotational input. This visual feedback keeps the user informed about the impending action, maintaining awareness and control while still enabling efficient hot-key access through roller rotation. The user can see what action is about to occur and can cancel if needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile communication terminal having a roll-key and method of processing an input signal using the same are disclosed, by which a hot-key function can be performed using a rotational input device in a standby screen mode. The present invention includes a roll-key outputting a signal according to a rotational action of a roller projected from a prescribed portion of a front side of the terminal in part, a control unit outputting a control signal to execute a hot-key operation corresponding to a recognized action of the roll-key, and a display unit outputting an image to implement a corresponding operation according to a signal provided by the control unit.