Software Input Panel Key Function Adaptation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing software input panels (SIPs) lack efficient operation patterns based on context awareness, making it difficult for users to input data conveniently across different operating interfaces without changing the number and layout of keys.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that automatically alter the input word corresponding to each key of the SIP according to the current operating interface, allowing users to input data efficiently without changing the number or layout of keys, by utilizing an operating interface switch module and a key function altering module to switch keys to relevant input words or symbols based on the current interface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the number and layout of keys in the SIP are changed to adapt to different operating interfaces, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different operating interfacesVSAvoidcomplexity of key layout configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the key functions of the SIP dynamically changeable according to the current operating interface. The system automatically adjusts which input word corresponds to each key based on the active interface, allowing the same physical key layout to serve multiple interfaces without requiring physical reconfiguration or complex layout changes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the functional parameter of each key rather than its physical position. By altering which input word is assigned to each key based on the operating interface context, the system achieves adaptability across different interfaces while maintaining a fixed, simple key layout, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple SIP configurations are maintained for different interfaces, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesupport for multiple operating interfacesVSAvoidease of data input

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically detecting the current operating interface and autonomously switching the key functions to match the appropriate interface requirements. This eliminates the need for users to manually configure or switch between different SIP configurations, thereby maintaining ease of operation while supporting multiple interfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system prepares the appropriate key functions in advance by pre-configuring multiple input words for each key and automatically selecting the relevant one based on the current interface. This preliminary preparation ensures that the correct input method is ready before the user needs to input data, improving both adaptability and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If the key functions are manually switched for each interface, then the adaptability is improved, but the productivity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinterface-specific input capabilityVSAvoidinput efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the current operating interface state and automatically adjusting the key functions accordingly. This closed-loop approach ensures that the SIP always matches the active interface without requiring manual intervention, thereby maintaining high input efficiency while providing interface-specific input capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system autonomously manages the switching of key functions based on interface changes, eliminating the need for manual configuration. This self-service mechanism ensures that the appropriate input method is always active, maximizing productivity by removing delays associated with manual switching while maintaining adaptability to different interfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8558798B2Method and apparatus for altering key function of software input panel and recording medium thereof

Publication Date: 2013.10.15 HTC CORP

AI summary

A method and an apparatus for altering a key function of a software input panel (SIP) of an electronic device and a recording medium thereof are provided, wherein the SIP includes a plurality of keys, and the number and layout of the keys are fixed. In the present method, first, an operating interface of an electronic device is switched, wherein the operating interface includes the SIP. Then, each key of the SIP is switched to an input word corresponding to the operating interface. As a result, the input word corresponding to each key of the SIP is automatically altered according to the current operating interface, and accordingly inputting through the SIP is made very convenient.