Programmable keypad for sized optimized device

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided that facilitate configuration of a keypad by end users of the portable host device, via employing a mapping component that can map individual keys of the keypad to characters and / or functions predefined by a user (e.g., defined for the host unit via a proprietary application / software). The reconfigurable keypad of the present invention can provide for a one touch access to special characters and / or performance of predetermined functions designated by the user, and thus facilitates performances of customized functions that can be unique to the end users.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 903,760, filed Jul. 30, 2004, entitled “PROGRAMMABLE KEYPAD FOR SIZED OPTIMIZED DEVICE.” The entirety of which application is incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD [0002] The present invention relates to systems and methods of providing an ergonomic keypad for a portable device, and more particularly to a keypad having keys that are configurable by an end user for accommodation of specific character symbols and / or user predefined functions. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Increasing advances in computer technology (e.g., microprocessor speed, memory capacity, data transfer bandwidth, software functionality . . . ) have generally contributed to increased computer application in various industries. Today, portable hand held terminals users produce and manage large amounts of data or information, as compared to their respective work load in...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009] The present invention provides for an ergonomic keypad that can be customized according to a user's need, by employing a mapping component that can map individual operation for keys of the keypad, to correspond to functions and / or character display desired by a user (e.g., user functions predefined via a proprietary application / software). Such customized characters / functions can be inputted by a user into a memory component of the portable device hosting the keypad, and accessed (e.g., via an associated processor) when so is required. For example a dedicated key on the keypad provides a user access to a keypad mode, wherein a map of the existing programmed characters / functions being linked to various keys appear on a touch screen interface. The user can then employ such touch screen interface to reconfigure functions of individual keys of the keypad to desired character and / or customized applications. The reconfigurable keypad of the present invention can provide for a one touch access to special characters and / or performance of predetermined functions designated by the user, and thus facilitates performances of customized functions that can be unique to the end users.

[0011] According to another aspect of the present invention, the number of alpha numerical keys on the keypad can be reduced, by employing a modulator key that can switch characters assigned to a key between two or more alternatives. In particular, when a user holds a terminal with one hand, for example the left hand, the left thumb can control the use of the modulator key, so as typing occurs, a large surface area can be availed for fewer keys, providing for a more accurate key manipulation. For example, the number of alphabet characters appearing on the keypad can be reduced (e.g., halved) by employing such modulator key. In addition, the modulator key can be positioned on both sides of the terminal for ambidextrous use. In a related aspect of the present invention, in connection with identifying the required function desired by the user, for example in a particular context, the subject invention can employ various artificial intelligence based schemes for carrying out various aspects thereof.

Problems solved by technology

Otherwise, the ensuing incompatibility can cause the hand, finger and wrist movements of the user operator to be somewhat strained, slowed, and even sometimes misdirected, resulting in not only unwanted and undesired physical stress on the operator, but also in undesired fatigue with resulting entry errors.

The results of such repetitive stress and errors while manipulating the keypad on a portable terminal can cause unwanted loss in time for correcting the errors, as well as a loss in productivity through stress related injuries suffered by the keyboard operator.

Such injuries may be severe enough to render the individual unemployable.

For example, repetitive stroking of an incompatible keypad can typically stress the wrists, elbows and shoulders of an operator.

As stated earlier, when continued over long periods of time, this can lead to repetitive stress injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, which is a painful and oftentimes a crippling ailment affecting the tendons and nerves in the person's wrist area.

This can further hinder rapid and accurate data manipulation on a keypad interface.

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