Symbol Selection via Boundary Designator for Imprecise Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic display devices require precise cursor maneuvering to select symbols, which can be difficult in challenging environments, such as aircraft, where accuracy is compromised.
Innovation Solution
A display device with a processor that selects symbols based on a predetermined priority scheme or sequence using a user input control device, allowing for symbol selection without precise cursor positioning, and optionally using a boundary designator to enclose a subset of symbols for sequential selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cursor control device is used to select symbols on a display device, then the user can access additional information and functions, but the user cannot accurately select symbols in challenging environments such as aircraft
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a boundary designator as an intermediary element that encloses multiple selectable symbols. Instead of requiring direct cursor positioning on a specific symbol, the user positions the boundary designator to encompass the desired symbol, and the system automatically identifies and selects the target symbol within the boundary. This intermediary mechanism bridges the gap between imprecise cursor control and accurate symbol selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the selection process into two distinct phases: first, positioning the boundary designator to enclose the target symbol (coarse positioning), and second, automatically identifying the specific symbol within the boundary (fine positioning). This segmentation allows the user to perform the easier coarse positioning task while the system handles the more difficult fine positioning task.
2Measurement precision
If precise cursor maneuvering is required to select symbols, then accurate symbol selection can be achieved, but the operation becomes difficult in challenging environments
Solution Approach 1:
The boundary designator serves as a mediator that transforms the difficult task of precise cursor positioning on small symbols into the easier task of positioning a larger boundary area. The system then automatically resolves the boundary position into the specific target symbol, maintaining accuracy while reducing operational difficulty.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the selection dimension from direct point-to-symbol positioning to area-based boundary positioning. By expanding the selection interface from a point cursor to an area boundary, the system provides users with a larger target area to aim for, making positioning easier while still enabling precise symbol selection through automated identification within the boundary.
3Ease of operation
If a boundary designator is used to enclose a subset of symbols, then sequential navigation becomes easier, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The boundary designator serves multiple functions: it acts as a selection tool for individual symbols, a navigation aid for sequential access to multiple symbols, and a visual indicator for the current selection context. By making this single element multi-functional, the patent improves ease of operation without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of cursor positioning, symbol selection, and navigation control into a single integrated mechanism using the boundary designator. This consolidation allows users to perform multiple operations (positioning, selecting, navigating) through one unified interface element, improving ease of operation while managing complexity through functional integration.
Data Source
AI summary
A display device is provided for selecting a plurality of selectable symbols on an electronic display. The display device comprises an electronic display that displays a plurality of selectable symbols, a user input control device, and a processor coupled to the electronic display and the user input control device. The processor is configured to select one of the plurality of selectable symbols based on a comparison of at least two of the plurality of selectable symbols according to a predetermined priority scheme in response to a single activation of the user input control device. In addition, the processor is further configured to select an additional selectable symbol from the plurality of selectable symbols in accordance with a predetermined sequence upon further activation of the input control device.