Sliding Key Assembly for Compact Mobile Keyboard Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile devices face challenges in accommodating full keyboards due to size constraints, leading to small and closely packed keys that increase typing errors, and text prediction algorithms consume device resources while being error-prone, especially for uncommon terms and passwords.
Innovation Solution
A key assembly with slidable keys that can be positioned in multiple configurations, allowing for larger key spacing and reducing the need for resource-intensive text prediction algorithms by enabling direct input of characters through distinct key positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If a full keyboard is accommodated on a mobile device, then the keyboard size increases, but the device size must be enlarged
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard transitions from a static layout to a dynamic reconfigurable layout where keys can slide between different positions and configurations. This allows the keyboard to adapt its size and shape based on available space, enabling a full QWERTY layout on smaller devices without requiring the device itself to be larger.
Solution Approach 2:
The keyboard utilizes multiple dimensions for key positioning, allowing keys to move not only horizontally and vertically but also to overlap or nest in three-dimensional space. This dimensional flexibility enables more keys to be packed into a smaller footprint while maintaining accessibility.
2Area of stationary object
If keys are made smaller to fit more on the device, then the device size decreases, but typing errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
Keys dynamically adjust their size and spacing based on the current input context and available space. When typing accuracy is prioritized, keys expand to larger sizes with adequate spacing. When space is constrained, keys can temporarily overlap or reposition, maintaining usability without permanently sacrificing typing accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the keyboard can have different key sizes and spacing characteristics optimized for their specific functions. Frequently used keys or keys requiring precision can be locally enlarged or given more spacing, while less critical keys can be smaller, allowing the overall keyboard to fit on smaller devices without compromising typing accuracy for important keys.
3Area of stationary object
If a reduced keypad is used, then the device size decreases, but resource consumption increases due to text prediction algorithms
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard provides its own input capabilities through multiple key positions and configurations, eliminating the need for external text prediction algorithms. The system serves its own input needs through the physical keyboard's design, where different key positions directly correspond to different characters or functions, reducing computational overhead and energy consumption.
4Area of stationary object
If a reduced keypad is used, then the device size decreases, but input reliability decreases due to prediction errors
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard dynamically adapts its configuration based on the input context, allowing users to directly select characters through key positions rather than relying on prediction algorithms. This dynamic adaptability ensures accurate input for names, uncommon terms, and acronyms without the errors associated with static prediction systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A key assembly comprising: a key housing; at least one key, wherein each one of the at least one key is coupled to the key housing for sliding movement relative to the key housing and is positionable relative to the key housing in a respective first key position and its disposition in the respective first key position effects a transmission of a signal associated with the respective first key position; wherein each one of the at least one key is moveable by an operative movement relative to the key housing between the respective first key position and at least another key position and the operative movement includes a sliding movement.