Software Input Panel Key Mapping for Interface Adaptation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing software input panels (SIPs) do not efficiently adapt their key functions to the current operating interface of electronic devices, leading to suboptimal input efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that automatically alter the input words corresponding to each key of the SIP based on the current operating interface without changing the number or layout of the keys, allowing for convenient data input by switching the operating interface and using a touch screen to select and input the appropriate words.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If the key functions of the SIP are fixed for all interfaces, then the device complexity is reduced, but the input efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinput efficiencyVSAvoidSIP adaptation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The SIP key functions are made dynamic by automatically switching them based on the current operating interface. The system detects interface changes and adjusts key mappings in real-time, allowing the same physical key to serve different functions across different interfaces without requiring manual reconfiguration or increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the functional parameters of the SIP keys based on the operating interface context. Each key's input word or function is adjusted according to which interface is currently active, enabling efficient input across multiple interfaces while maintaining a consistent physical keyboard layout

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If the SIP is shifted to accommodate different interfaces, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinterface adaptabilityVSAvoidSIP operation convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The SIP position is pre-adjusted based on the type of interface being accessed. The system predicts which position will be most convenient for the upcoming interface and shifts the SIP accordingly before the user needs to input data, eliminating the need for manual repositioning and maintaining ease of operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The SIP is designed to serve multiple interfaces universally by automatically adapting its key functions and position. A single SIP instance handles different interface types (messaging, browsing, email, etc.) through automatic configuration, eliminating the need for separate SIP configurations for each interface while maintaining operational simplicity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9652147B2Method and apparatus for shifting software input panel and recording medium thereof

Publication Date: 2017.05.16 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.