Single-Input Function Access for Faster Computer System Control

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing techniques for accessing and managing functions of a computer system are cumbersome and inefficient, often requiring multiple key presses or keystrokes, wasting user time and device energy, particularly in battery-operated devices.

Innovation Solution

Implementing methods and interfaces that allow for faster access to functions through a single input mechanism, with customizable reconfiguration, reducing redundant inputs and enhancing user efficiency and power conservation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a complex user interface with multiple key presses is used to access functions, then the system can provide comprehensive function access, but the time and energy required for access increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveFunction access speedVSAvoidTime required for function access

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring multiple functions to be associated with a single input device before the user needs to access them. When a function is selected for association, the system stores this mapping in advance, enabling immediate execution without requiring multiple subsequent key presses or menu navigations. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for complex multi-step access sequences.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If a complex user interface with multiple key presses is used to access functions, then the system can provide comprehensive function access, but the energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveFunction access speedVSAvoidDevice energy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring multiple functions to be associated with a single input device before the user needs to access them. When a function is selected for association, the system stores this mapping in advance, enabling immediate execution without requiring multiple subsequent key presses or menu navigations. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for complex multi-step access sequences.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If a single input device is used for diverse functions, then the interface is simplified and personalization is enhanced, but the system must manage multiple function associations efficiently

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveInput mechanism customizationVSAvoidFunction management complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements dynamics by allowing the association between input devices and functions to be flexible and changeable. Users can dynamically reassign which function is associated with a particular input device based on their preferences and usage patterns. The system maintains a configurable mapping that can be modified without affecting other functions, enabling adaptability while managing complexity through user-controlled reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20250370597A1Function accessibility

Publication Date: 2025.12.04 APPLE INC

AI summary

The present disclosure generally relates to accessing and managing various functions of a computer system.