Single-Button Candidate Group Switching for Compact User Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic devices face limitations in selecting a large number of candidates due to the limited number of buttons, requiring multiple keys for character input and complex operations for date and time entry, and struggle with changing function assignments using graphical user interfaces on devices with small display units.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a control unit that allows switching between candidate groups and candidates using a single operating member, where short and long presses of the member switch between different selectable candidates, enabling efficient selection of settings without the need for multiple buttons.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple keys are used for character input from different character groups, then all characters can be input, but the number of operating members increases and device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single operating member is designed to perform multiple functions: selecting candidates within the current group, switching between different character groups, and confirming selections. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate keys for different character groups, reducing the total number of buttons while maintaining full character input capability
2Ease of operation
If a roller member is used for date and time input, then input can be done with one component, but the installation position is more limited
Solution Approach 1:
The operating member is designed as a multi-functional component that can be installed in various positions (front surface, side surface, or integrated with display) and performs multiple operations including candidate selection, group switching, and confirmation. This universal design provides both operational simplicity and installation flexibility
3Adaptability or versatility
If GUI menu is used to change function assignment, then function can be changed, but multiple operating members are required and accuracy is low on small displays
Solution Approach 1:
The same single operating member used for normal operation is also used to access and navigate the function assignment menu. By making the operating member itself configurable through software, the system achieves function change capability without requiring additional physical buttons, reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility
4Adaptability or versatility
If the number of selectable candidates is increased, then more information can be selected, but the complexity of selection operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The large set of selectable candidates is divided into multiple candidate groups. The operating member enables easy switching between groups, and within each group, candidates can be selected through simple repeated operations. This segmentation reduces the complexity of selecting from a large number of candidates by breaking them into manageable subsets
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a control unit configured to perform control to: in a first state where a first selectable candidate group is assigned to an current candidate group, switch from selecting a first candidate of the first candidate group to selecting a second candidate of the first candidate group in response to an first type operation of a specific operating member; in the first state, change from the first state to a second state, where a second selectable candidate group is assigned to the current candidate group, in response to a second type operation of the specific operating member; in the second state, switch from selecting a first candidate of the second candidate group to selecting a second candidate of the second candidate group in response to the first type operation of the specific operating member.