Transparent Alternative Input Screen for Small Mobile Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face inconvenience when entering information on small-screen mobile information terminals due to limited display space, making it difficult to view and correct input characters.
Innovation Solution
A transparent alternative input screen is displayed superimposed over the content, allowing users to enter and edit characters in a larger, easy-to-view interface while maintaining the visibility of the content, with synchronization between the input screen and the input field without user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a dedicated input area is provided for entering characters, then ease of operation is improved, but the display area for content is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a traditional spatial separation approach to a layered dimensional approach. The alternative input screen is displayed in a transparent state superimposed on the content, utilizing the Z-depth dimension rather than consuming horizontal or vertical screen space. This allows the input interface to coexist with the content display without reducing the visible content area, while still providing a dedicated input area for improved ease of operation.
2Weight of moving object
If the screen size is reduced for portability, then weight and size are improved, but ease of operation for input is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the contradiction between small screen size for portability and ease of input by utilizing transparency and layering. The alternative input screen is rendered transparently so that it can be displayed over the content without occupying additional physical screen space. This maintains the compact form factor while providing an enlarged, easier-to-use input interface through the superimposed transparent layer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a copy of the input interface in the form of an alternative input screen that mirrors the functionality of direct content input but provides enhanced usability. This copied interface includes verification fields and input areas that replicate the essential input functions while offering improved visibility and ease of operation on the small screen.
3Ease of operation
If a transparent alternative input screen is displayed superimposed on content, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal input mechanism that can function in multiple modes: direct input into content fields and alternative input through the transparent screen. The alternative input screen serves multiple purposes including character entry, verification, and conversion, all within a single unified interface structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated input devices or complex switching mechanisms, thereby managing system complexity while improving ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An information input device includes: a display unit configured to display a user interface for acknowledging user input information in a content including an input field displayed on a display, by accepting an operation on the display, the user interface being displayed transparently as superimposed in front of the content; and a transcription unit configured to provide, in the input field in the content, the user input information acknowledged in the user interface.