U.S. patent application number 11/157203 was filed with the patent office on 2005-11-17 for integrated keypad system.
Invention is credited to Ghassabian, Firooz.
Application Number | 20050253814 11/157203 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27569091 |
Filed Date | 2005-11-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050253814 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ghassabian, Firooz |
November 17, 2005 |
Integrated keypad system
Abstract
A data entry system includes a predefined number of keys for at
least inputting arbitrary characters through the keys. The data
entry system uses a number of symbols having at least the letters
of the alphabet of at least one language and where the symbols are
assigned to the keys such that at least two of the letters are
assigned to at least one of the keys. A symbol assigned to a key is
inputted by providing a predefined type of interaction such as one
type of pressing action on the key and providing a speech
information corresponding to the symbol. The speech information is
detected and analyzed based on at least one of, a user's voice and
a user's lips movements. The data entry system uses a database of
words of a language such that in order to enter a word of the
database a user provides a combined information corresponding to
the word, where the combined information includes a first and
second type of information. The first type of information includes
entering precisely at least one of the letters of the word by
providing a corresponding pressing action on a key corresponding to
the at least one letter and speaking the at least one letter. The
second type of information includes providing the key presses
corresponding to at least some of the other characters of the word,
and based on the combined information, the system predicts the
word.
Inventors: |
Ghassabian, Firooz; (Great
Neck, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SOFER & HAROUN, LLP
Suite 910
317 Madison Avenue
New York
NY
10017
US
|
Family ID: |
27569091 |
Appl. No.: |
11/157203 |
Filed: |
June 20, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11157203 |
Jun 20, 2005 |
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10111888 |
Sep 5, 2002 |
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10111888 |
Sep 5, 2002 |
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PCT/US00/29647 |
Oct 27, 2000 |
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60163996 |
Oct 27, 1999 |
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60164656 |
Nov 4, 1999 |
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60164597 |
Nov 10, 1999 |
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60169149 |
Dec 6, 1999 |
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60194767 |
Apr 3, 2000 |
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60208619 |
Jun 1, 2000 |
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60220578 |
Jul 25, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
345/168 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 3/0221 20130101;
G06F 2203/0338 20130101; G06F 3/03547 20130101; G06K 9/00006
20130101; G06F 1/1616 20130101; G06F 3/038 20130101; G06F 3/0235
20130101; G06F 1/1626 20130101; G06F 3/0202 20130101; G06F 1/1698
20130101; G06F 1/163 20130101; G06F 1/1641 20130101; G06F 3/0237
20130101; G06F 3/0233 20130101; G06F 3/011 20130101; G06F 2200/1614
20130101; G06F 1/1671 20130101; G06F 2203/0381 20130101; G06F
1/1684 20130101; G06F 3/04886 20130101; G06F 1/1662 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
345/168 |
International
Class: |
G09G 005/00 |
Claims
1. A data entry system comprising; a predefined number of keys for
at least inputting arbitrary characters through said keys, wherein;
said data entry system uses a number of symbols comprising at least
the letters of the alphabet of at least one language and wherein
said symbols are assigned to said keys such that at least two of
said letters are assigned to at least one of said keys, and
wherein; a symbol assigned to a key, is inputted by providing a
predefined type of interaction with said key such as one of at
least one type of pressing action on said key and providing a
speech information corresponding to said symbol for selecting said
symbol among the symbols that are assigned to said key, and wherein
said speech information is detected and analyzed based on at least
one of, a user's voice and a user's lips movements, and wherein;
said data entry system uses a database of words of a language such
that in order to enter a word of said database a user provides a
combined information corresponding to said word, wherein said
combined information includes; a first type of information
including of entering precisely at least one of the letters of said
word by providing a corresponding pressing action on a key
corresponding to said at least one letter and speaking said at
least one letter; and a second type of information including of
providing the key presses corresponding to at least some of the
other characters of said word, and wherein based on said combined
information, the system predicts said word.
2. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein said at
least some of the other characters of said word are all of the
other characters of said word.
3. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein said
arbitrary characters constitute a chain of characters entered by
providing key presses corresponding to the characters of said chain
of characters and providing the speech of each of said
characters.
4. The data entry system according to claim 3, wherein said chain
of characters is a word of a language.
5. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein further a
word of a language is entered by providing the key presses
corresponding to said word and speaking said word.
6. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein symbols
having ambiguously resembling speech information and that are hard
to distinguish from each other through their corresponding speech
information, are separately assigned to different keys.
7. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein said symbol
is a letter of the alphabet and said speech information is speaking
said letter.
8. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein the absence
of speech is said speech information, and wherein at least one of
said symbols assigned to a key is inputted by providing said
predefined interaction with said key in the absence of a speech,
said absence of speech being detected by said system.
9. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein said number
of symbols includes at least one of at least numerical characters,
punctuation mark characters, commands, and functions.
10. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein said number
of keys comprises twelve keys duplicating the key configuration of
a telephone-type keypad, wherein at least substantially all of said
letters are assigned to said key configuration preferably
duplicating the configuration of the Roman letters of a standard
telephone-type keypad.
11. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein at least
substantially all of said letters are assigned to four keys of said
number of keys.
12. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein keys are
sensitive keys such as touch sensitive keys or pressing sensitive
keys.
13. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein said type
of pressing action is one of at least a single-taping action, a
double tapping action, a press and holding action, or a gliding
action on said key.
14. The data entry system according to claim 13, wherein two
different types of said pressing actions on a key, correspond to
two different groups of symbols on said key.
15. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein said type
of pressing action is pressing said key and at least one other key,
wherein said pressing actions are preferably provided
simultaneously.
16. The data entry system according to claim 15, wherein symbols
such as some of at least one of the punctuation mark characters,
commands, or functions, are assigned to said type of
interaction.
17. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein said keys
are the predefined zones of a sensitive surface, and wherein said
type of pressing action is providing a pressing action with one of
the tip portion or the flat portion of a user's finger on at least
one of said zones, wherein providing a pressing action with the tip
portion of the user's finger on a zone on said surface corresponds
to a first group of symbols assigned to said zone, and providing a
pressing action with the flat portion of the user's finger on said
zone or on another zone on said surface corresponds to a second
group of symbols assigned to said zone.
18. The data entry system according to claim 17, wherein each of
two similar types of pressing actions provided by each of two
user's fingers, wherein each pressing action provided on a
different predefined zone on said surface, corresponds to a
different group of symbols.
19. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein the
frequently used symbols such as letters are inputted by providing
the easiest type of pressing action such as single tapping
action.
20. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein said type
of pressing action is provided by a stylus such as the stylus used
with a digitizer surface.
21. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein said number
of keys are soft keys that are dynamically defined on a surface
such as a touch sensitive surface and wherein; said number of
symbols form different groups of symbols wherein each of some of at
least one predefined group of said symbols corresponds to one of
said types of interaction provided on a position on said surface
having a predefined position relationship relating to at least one
other of said types of interaction provided on at least one other
position on said surface and wherein; based on said position
relationship of said at least two interactions provided on at least
two different positions on said surface, the system identifies the
predefined group of symbols assigned to at least one of said
interaction on the corresponding position.
22. The data entry system according to claim 21, wherein said
pressing actions having said position relationship relating to each
to other may be provided on any region on said surface.
23. The data entry system according to claim 21, wherein said
positions of said pressing actions provided on said surface
duplicate predefined keys of a predefined keypad.
24. The data entry system according to claim 23, wherein said
keypad comprises at least ten keys wherein to ten of said keys
substantially all of the letters of the alphabet of at least one
language are assigned.
25. The data entry system according to claim 24, wherein each of
said positions is pressed by a different user's finger.
26. The data entry system according to claim 23, wherein said
keypad comprises at least four keys wherein to four of said keys
substantially all of the letters of the alphabet of at least one
language are assigned.
27. The data entry system according to claim 26, wherein each two
of said four positions if pressed by one of said user's finger.
28. The data entry system according to claim 27, wherein each of
said two positions is pressed by a different portion of a user's
finger.
29. The data entry system according to claim 28, wherein one of
said positions is pressed by the tip portion of a user's finger,
and the other position is pressed by the flat portion of the user's
finger.
30. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein said type
of pressing action is provided by at least one of at least a first
and a second predefined user's fingers on said surface.
31. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein said number
of symbols includes substantially all of the elementary symbols
such as alphanumerical characters, punctuation mark characters and
commands, to input or edit a text and/or to manipulate a
computer.
32. The data entry system according to claim 1, wherein a word of a
language is inputted character by character.
33. A data entry system comprising: a predefined number of keys for
at least inputting arbitrary characters through said keys, wherein;
said data entry system uses a number of symbols comprising at least
some of one of at least the numerical characters, the punctuation
mark characters, and the commands, of a keyboard such as a computer
keyboard and wherein said symbols are assigned to said keys such
that at least two of said symbols are assigned to at least one of
said keys, and wherein; a symbol assigned to a key is inputted by
providing a predefined type of interaction with said key such as
one of at least one type of pressing action on said key and
providing a speech information corresponding to said symbol for
selecting said symbol among symbols that are assigned to said key,
and wherein said speech information is detected and analyzed based
on at least one of a user's voice and a user's lips movements.
34. The data entry system according to claim 33, wherein symbols
having ambiguously resembling speech information and that are hard
to distinguish from each other through their corresponding speech
information, are separately assigned to different position on said
surface.
35. The data entry system according to claim 33, wherein the
absence of speech is said speech information, and wherein at least
one of said symbols assigned to a key is inputted by providing said
predefined interaction with said key in the absence of a speech,
said absence of speech being detected by said system.
36. The data entry system according to claim 33, wherein said type
of pressing action is one of at least, a single-taping action, a
double tapping action, a press and holding action, or a gliding
action on said key.
37. The data entry system according to claim 36, wherein two
different types of said pressing actions on a key correspond to two
different groups of symbols on said key.
38. The data entry system according to claim 33, wherein said type
of pressing action is pressing said key and at least one other key
wherein said pressing actions are preferably provided
simultaneously.
39. The data entry system according to claim 38, wherein symbols
such as some of at least one of the punctuation mark characters,
commands, or functions, are assigned to said type of interaction.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. National Phase
application Ser. No. 10/111,888, filed on Apr. 26, 2002, having a
371 date of Sep. 5, 2002, which is a National Phase Application of
PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US00/29647, filed on Oct. 27, 2000,
which in turn claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. Nos. 60/163,996, filed on Oct. 27, 1999;
60/164,656, filed on Nov. 4, 1999; 60/164,597, filed on Nov. 10,
1999; 60/169,149, filed on Dec. 6, 1999; 60/194,767, filed on Apr.
3, 2000; 60/208,619. filed on Jun. 1, 2000; 60/220,578, filed on
Jul. 25, 2000; the entirety of which are all incorporated by
reference herein as fully as if set forth in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to keypad, finger, hand, speech,
lips, face and other detection systems, and more specifically to a
keypad (e.g. standard telephone keypad), having a finger pad
recognition device which may be used in combination with the
above-mentioned recognition systems, in order that full text and
functions input can be provided in a natural, easy and quick
manner.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Miniaturization has been a key component to recent
technological advancement, enabling production of many devices that
would otherwise be impracticable for reasons of size alone. Thus,
we now have desktop computers that are more powerful and much
smaller than their ancestor mainframes. Also, digital clocks, video
games and common appliances farther illustrate the profit of
miniaturization. In fact, the very essence of, for example,
portable computers and cellular phones is their size as a primary
feature.
[0004] Yet, primarily because of human constraints, there are many
obstacles to the growth of miniaturization in several areas. For
example, it may be desirable to have a portable computer that fits
in one's wallet, but such a computer would not be useable without a
large input device that enables human interaction with the
computer. In other words, complex miniature computers and devices,
such as cellular phones (now, also used for the Internet, email,
m-commerce, SMS (Short Massage Services), etc.), notebooks and
PDAs, require keyboards, numeric pads or other input devices to
allow the user to enter a phone number, send e-mail or transcribe a
letter, etc. Thus, as advanced as miniaturization technology may
get, there are other human factors involved that prevent certain
devices from realizing a truly miniature state.
[0005] As is well known, the key feature for a successful
technological product, is its easily manipulations. For
above-mentioned instruments and similar devices, a quickly, easily
and most importantly, naturally, full text and function entry
system is vital.
[0006] The telephone-type keypad, that people are familiar with, is
the most common input device for small electronic and
telecommunications instruments. It is integrated in many electronic
devices such as mobile and wired telephones, PDAs, notebooks,
laptops, faxes, remote controllers of TVs or other electronic
devices, cameras, etc. This keypad usually has twelve keys, while
the number of characters and functions keys used for writing texts
or messages may be seven times this number. For example a computer
keyboard has more than eighty keys, while some of those keys are
used for two characters, symbols, or functions.
[0007] Because the telephone keypad has an insufficient number of
keys (e.g. mobile phone keypad), each key of a standard telephone
keypad contains a group of characters and usually one number. Usage
of the Internet or even entering a short message, engages a lot of
complexity for the consumer.
[0008] Proposals have been put forward to solve this fundamental
man-machine-interface problem of how to quickly and easily enter
text and functions using small communication devices.
[0009] One solution is to provide multiple presses of a single key
for selecting a letter or symbol among those represented by a key.
This system is currently used in most mobile phone keypads. This is
a time consuming method and it frustrates the user.
[0010] To improve that system, word disambiguating software
products are developed. A dictionary database and language model
are used to scan and present possible words according to keys
pressed. Later the user selects the desired word among presented
possibilities. Such approach engages a lot of problems such as
out-of-vocabulary words or obliging the user to concentrate for
selecting a desired word. In addition, entering numbers or single
characters are again time consuming procedures.
[0011] External miniaturized keyboards are also produced to
overcome the problem but they oblige the user to carry two
different instruments, interfering with the basic idea of small
electronic products, which is their easy portability.
[0012] One recent technology that has attempted to overcome such
limitations is voice/speech-recognition technology. Voice
recognition is the process of recognizing one or more voice
patterns from an individual's voice as a corresponding computer
input command, word, or function. For example, rather than typing a
letter on a keyboard a user speaks that letter, wherein the
recognition device associates the voice pattern of that letter with
the corresponding computer input character of that letter. Thus,
individuals may operate devices in this manner without an input
device since the user's voice provides all of the input.
Unfortunately, considering the many complex aspects of an
individual's voice, there is yet a recognition device that can
accurately recognize voice patterns at a sufficient level where
input devices can be completely replaced.
[0013] Additionally, several letters such as "B" and "P", or "D"
and "T", can easily be confused by a speech engine. This is not
necessarily a shortcoming of the engine as these letters can easily
be confused by the humans as well. Hereafter, a list of some of the
problems and disadvantages concerning voice/speech recognition
systems;
[0014] Only for language, mostly English
[0015] Recognizing only one person's voice
[0016] Outside noise disturbance (especially when using mobile
telecommunication instruments)
[0017] Not good for devices with small displays because of
correction inconvenience (especially when using instruments with
small LCDs, such as mobile phones)
[0018] Many mistakes may occur when speaking single words
(discontinuous speaking)
[0019] Similar pronunciation for different words (e.g. two, to,
too)
[0020] Not predicting the user intention when writing numbers (e.g.
twenty four, 24)
[0021] Not predicting the user intention when writing mixture of
numbers and symbols (e.g. six by four, 6 by 4, 6.times.4)
[0022] Difficulty to distinguish between letters (e.g. B, P)
[0023] Moreover, notwithstanding the miniaturization issue,
portable and other electronic devices have many security and
efficiency problems. For example, an individual who misplaces or
loses a cellular phone must rush to disconnect his or her
communications service before a thief or other person uses the
phone to generate unauthorized charges. One known method for
preventing such unauthorized use is to lock the cellular phone or
other device with a code system. Although, effective in many cases,
this system is painstaking and inefficient for the true owner, who
must activate the phone via a lengthy process before dialing.
Similarly, there is no simple method for preventing unauthorized
use of many electronic devices without first locking the device
with a code system or other time consuming and inefficient
process.
[0024] Therefore, what is needed is a technology that resolves the
human constraint Dilemma mentioned above, so that miniaturization
can continue to realize its true potential. Furthermore, such a
technology should also provide means for a more secure and
efficient mechanism that can prevent unauthorized use of devices,
among other things, as compared with the prior art. In addition, a
technology that improves the reliability of voice recognition
technology is desirable as well. What is needed, is preferably, a
character-by character data entry method, using familiar input
devices with limited number of keys (e.g. telephone keypad),
wherein each key contains a group of characters, symbols and
commands existing on computer keyboards or similar devices,
combined with some of other recognition systems such as finger,
voice, speech, lip, eye, face, etc., to enable the identification
of individual characters from individual key entry actions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0025] A fingerprint detection device is provided, comprising one
or more electronic pads that are configured to recognize pattern
differences in each of a user's fingers. Such patterns relate to
finger characteristics (such as size, shape, color, etc.), of
entire fingers or portions of them. The patterns also relate to
other information such as characteristics of the surface of the
fingertips (fingerprint, size, shape), nails (shape, size,
brilliance), etc. Such pattern differences can in turn be utilized
communicatively so that human input can be transmitted to an
electronic device via the process of touching one's fingers to the
fingerprint detection device. Thus, an individual can use one's
fingers in conjunction with a fingerprint detection device in order
to input a phone number to a phone device, enter characters to a
computer, trigger various macros or functions with a PDA, etc.
[0026] Initially, the fingerprint detection device must be
programmed or `taught` so that it maps a particular finger with a
corresponding symbol or function, such as a number, letter, macro
or other activity. Thus, for example, one can use this method to
map a distinct number to each of one's fingers (e.g. the numbers 0
to 9 comprise 10 Arabic digits, which may correspond to each one of
a person's ten fingers) and then be able to dial phone numbers
solely with one's hands and a fingerpad. This saves space, by
requiring only one pad as opposed to many numeric keys.
[0027] Notably, more than one symbol or function can be mapped to
each finger. For example, the fingerprint detection device is
configured, according to one embodiment of the invention, to
interpret a double tap with a particular finger to correspond to
one number, while at the same time a single tap with the same
finger can correspond to another number.
[0028] Illustratively, using an index finger with one tap can
correspond to the number `2` and the same finger used with two taps
can correspond to the number `7.` In turn, all ten Arabic digits
can be inputted with one hand and one fingerprint pad. Similarly,
one can expand on this method to input letters, symbols or other
functions.
[0029] In alternative embodiments, each finger is mapped to a
different symbol or function based on the location of the finger,
such as a different corner of the electronic pad. Thus, a tap in
the upper right hand corner of the electronic pad will be
interpreted differently than the lower right hand corner, etc.
Also, more than one pad can be provided, if desired, to accomplish
the same purpose.
[0030] One main advantage of this fingerprint detection device is
its size. Rather than having a large numeric keypad for a phone,
one can use a smaller fingerprint pad, using the methods discussed
above. Similarly, computer keyboards can be replaced or modified,
as well as PDA input devices, etc.
[0031] According to one embodiment, the fingerprint detection
device is configured to distinguish between fingers based on their
fingerprints. As such, this provides the user with a security
advantage since the fingerpad would only operate based on a
particular finger and is rendered useless in the hands of an
unauthorized user.
[0032] According to yet another embodiment, the finger detection
device detects biological differences between characteristics of
fingers via a method other than fingerprint detection. These
biological differences include, size, shape, position, temperature,
etc. Thus, for example, the finger detection device can be
configured to quickly distinguish one finger from another based on
its size and shape. This process avoids the lengthy and complex
task of scanning a full or partial fingerprint. It is understood
that for finger print or finger biological recognition, different
detection systems and devices such as sensitive touchpads of any
kind, touch screens, thermal, optical or other recognition means
may be used.
[0033] According to yet another embodiment of the invention, the
detection device is configured to accept multiple forms of input to
enhance accuracy and ease of use. For example, the detection device
can be configured as both a finger detection and voice-recognition
device, wherein the detection device identifies a corresponding
character or function based on input from both an individual's
finger and voice patterns.
[0034] Not only does this method enhance accuracy, but it also
enables individuals to more easily and quickly input distinct
characters, words, and/or functions. Illustratively, without this
method, an individual who wishes to use his or her fingers to input
alphanumeric characters must assign three or more letters or
symbols to each finger since there are many more letters and
numbers than human fingers. It is thereafter not sufficient to
merely tap one's finger when entering a character since the input
device still needs to distinguish between the several characters
assigned to that finger. Thus, providing multiple forms of input
resolves this problem. As an individual places one's finger on the
detection pad he or she may also speak the desired letter or
function. The voice of the individual enables the detection device
to distinguish between the many characters assigned to a particular
finger. In addition, the limitations of voice recognition are
avoided since the finger detection device narrows down the
voice-recognition to one of a few letters or symbols rather than a
much larger scope. For example, by using this system combined with
telephone keypad character arrangement, letters "B" and "P" will
not be misrecognized by the voice recognition engine, since they
are separately located on two different groups (e.g. keys) 2, and
7. The same is true for the letters "D" and "T", which are located
on the keys 3, and 8, respectively.
[0035] It is understood that the above-described embodiment can be
configured to utilize voice-recognition with any of the finger
detection devices described herein. For example, voice 6)
recognition can be combined to operate with fingerprint detection.
Further, voice recognition can also be combined to operate with
finger detection based on biological characteristics other than
fingerprints. It can also be configured to operate with the optical
scanning devices, described herein, etc.
[0036] The above description sets forth rather broadly the more
important features of the present invention in order that the
detailed description thereof that follows may be understood, and in
order that the present contributions to the art may be better
appreciated. Other objects and features of the present invention
will become apparent from the following detailed description
considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is to
be understood, however, that the drawings are designed solely for
the purposes of illustration and not as a definition of the limits
of the invention, for which reference should be made to the
appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0037] In the drawings in which like reference characters denote
similar elements throughout the several views:
[0038] FIG. 1 shows a fingerprint detection interface, according to
one embodiment of the invention, for enabling inputting of numbers,
letters, or other symbols and commands to a device via fingerprints
or other biological differences among fingers;
[0039] FIG. 2 is a mapping table portion of a database, according
to one embodiment of the invention, which illustrates a particular
finger being logically mapped to one or more corresponding
functions or symbols;
[0040] FIG. 3 is a wristwatch having a fingerprint detection pad,
according to one embodiment of the invention, so that the
wristwatch can be configured to operate as a radio, phone, or other
device without requiring a console, numeric keypad or other bulky
input device;
[0041] FIG. 4 is a calculator having a fingerprint detection pad,
according to one embodiment of the invention, so that individuals
can enter functions and other commands via fingerprint
detection;
[0042] FIG. 5 shows the fingerprint detection interface of FIG. 1,
according to one embodiment of the invention, having four
fingerprint pads;
[0043] FIG. 6a is a wrist mounted telephone device, according to
one embodiment of the invention, having a fingerprint pad for
dialing, in place of a numeric pad;
[0044] FIG. 6b shows the wrist mounted telephone device of FIG. 6a,
having two fingerprint pads for additional functionality;
[0045] FIG. 7 shows an optical finger detection device, according
to one embodiment of the invention, for capturing images of
fingers, hands, or portions of fingers or hands in order to detect
a particular corresponding character, number, function, or
command;
[0046] FIG. 8 shows a detection device that comprises both, optical
finger detection means and voice recognition means, according to
one embodiment of the invention;
[0047] FIG. 9 shows a finger mapping table, according to one
embodiment of this invention;
[0048] FIG. 10 shows a telephone keypad having a voice recognition
device, according to one embodiment of this invention;
[0049] FIG. 11 shows a front view of a traditional keyboard;
[0050] FIG. 11a shows the finger pad detection device of one
embodiment of this invention configured as an enhanced keyboard
and/or display device;
[0051] FIG. 12 shows a front view of a telephone keypad;
[0052] FIG. 13 shows an enhanced keypad device according to one
embodiment of this invention, having multiple configurations;
[0053] FIG. 13a shows an illustration of the enhanced keypad of
FIG. 13 used according to one embodiment of the invention;
[0054] FIG. 14 shows an enhanced keypad according to one embodiment
of this invention having lip, voice and other input and recognition
means;
[0055] FIG. 14a shows an enhanced keypad according to another
embodiment of this invention having lip, voice and other input and
recognition means;
[0056] FIG. 14b shows an enhanced keypad according to another
embodiment of this invention having lip, voice and other input and
recognition means;
[0057] FIG. 14c shows an enhanced keypad according to another
embodiment of this invention having lip, voice and other input and
recognition means;
[0058] FIG. 14d shows an arrangement of keys for structuring an
enhanced keypad, according to one embodiment of this invention,
utilizing the recognition technique of FIG. 14b;
[0059] FIG. 14e shows an arrangement of keys for structuring an
enhanced keypad, according to one embodiment of this invention,
utilizing the recognition technique of FIG. 14b;
[0060] FIG. 15 shows an enhanced keypad according to one embodiment
of this invention, comprising light sensors and pressure sensing
means;
[0061] FIG. 15b shows an arrangement of keys for structuring an
enhanced keypad, according to one embodiment of this invention;
[0062] FIG. 15c shows an arrangement of keys for structuring an
enhanced keypad, according to one embodiment of this invention;
[0063] FIG. 16 shows a multi-sectioned LCD comprising an enhanced
keypad according to one embodiment of this invention;
[0064] FIG. 16a shows an LCD device, sized as a credit card,
according to one embodiment of this invention;
[0065] FIG. 16b shows a multi-sectioned LCD according to one
embodiment of this invention;
[0066] FIG. 16c shows a multi-sectioned LCD according to one
embodiment of this invention;
[0067] FIG. 16d shows a multi-sectioned LCD comprising an enhanced
keypad according to one embodiment of this invention;
[0068] FIG. 16e shows a credit size computer having a
multi-sectioned LCD and enhanced keypad according to one embodiment
of this invention;
[0069] FIG. 16g shows an a credit card size computer and
telecommunication device according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0070] FIG. 17 shows a large LCD panel having multiple hinges for
increased folding or miniaturization;
[0071] FIG. 18 shows a wrist watch phone and PDA, according to one
embodiment of this invention, comprising a recessed enhanced keypad
with locking mechanism;
[0072] FIG. 19 shows an enhanced keypad device according to one
embodiment of this invention, having two keypads;
[0073] FIG. 20 shows an enhanced keypad device according to one
embodiment of this invention, having a removable handset that
includes a display pad;
[0074] FIG. 21 shows a handset device according to one embodiment
of this invention, having a display pad on the rear portion of the
handset;
[0075] FIG. 22 shows a handset device according to one embodiment
of this invention, configured to detachably connect to the enhanced
keypad device of FIG. 20.
[0076] FIG. 23 shows a flowchart concerning the general steps of
character, symbol and function recognition system according to
preferred embodiment.
[0077] FIG. 24 shows a flowchart concerning the steps of
recognition of alpha characters and symbols according to preferred
embodiment.
[0078] FIG. 25 shows a flowchart concerning the steps of
recognition of numeric characters and symbols according to
preferred embodiment.
[0079] FIG. 26 shows a flowchart concerning the steps of
recognition of command and functions according to preferred
embodiment.
[0080] FIG. 27a shows a key of an enhanced keypad using click
sensitive pad according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0081] FIG. 27b shows a key of an enhanced keypad using click
sensitive pad according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0082] FIG. 28 shows a key of an enhanced keypad using click
sensitive pad according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0083] FIG. 29a shows an enhanced multi-sectioned keypad according
to one embodiment of the invention.
[0084] FIG. 29b shows an enhanced multi-sectioned keypad having a
LCD according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0085] FIG. 29c shows an enhanced multi-sectioned keypad in closed
position according to one embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0086] With initial reference to FIG. 1, a fingerprint detection
interface 100 is shown, according to one embodiment of the
invention, comprising a fingerprint detection pad 126, which is
configured to recognize pattern differences in each of a user's
fingers. Such pattern differences can in turn be utilized
communicatively so that human input can be electronically
transmitted to an electronic device via the process of touching
one's fingers to the fingerprint detection device.
[0087] Fingerprint detection interface 100 further comprises,
according to one embodiment of the invention, a display screen 122,
an indicator light 124, command buttons 128-136, switches 138, and
wireless communications means 126. Briefly, an individual using a
plurality of fingers, such as fingers 102-120, touches fingerprint
detection pad 126 in order to provide an input signal, whereas
fingerprint detection device 100 in turn transmits that signal via
communications means 126 to another device, such as a phone or
computer. The type of input signal provided is based on a
combination of factors, including, which finger or portion of a
finger is used and what motion is done with that finger. For
example, an individual can double tap his or her right thumb to
provide one signal and swipe his or her left index finger to
provide another signal. The method and use of such fingerprint
detection will be described in more detail below. Thus, the
fingerprint detection device can be used in place of a more bulky
computer keyboard, phone numeric pad, or any other input
device.
[0088] With continued reference to FIG. 1, display screen 122 is
provided as an optional visual indication of the fingerprint
detection mechanism. For example, an individual inputting a phone
number via the fingerprint device can see the phone number
displayed on the display screen as it is detected. According to one
embodiment, the display screen acts as a buffer, wherein the
individual can view the display screen in order to correct any
errors and subsequently transmit the buffered information to the
corresponding device, such as a phone. As will be explained below,
command buttons 132 and 134 can be used for this purpose.
[0089] In addition, indicator light 124 can be configured to flash
and/or beep to indicate the operation of the fingerprint device.
Thus, an individual can use the fingerprint pad without viewing the
display screen, and the indicator light will flash or beep as the
fingerprint detection mechanism for each finger is completed. This
signals the individual user with an indication so that he or she
may continue to another finger or signal.
[0090] As mentioned above, command buttons 128-136 provide several
useful functions. For example, command buttons 128 and 130 can be
used to initiate or program the device. Understandably, the
fingerprint detection device must be programmed or `taught` so that
it maps a particular fingerprint with a corresponding symbol or
function, such as a number, letter, macro or other activity. Thus,
command buttons 128 and 130 can function as record and select
buttons so that one or more symbols or functions can be selected
and mapped with a particular fingerprint. Furthermore, command
buttons 132 and 134 can be used to respectively clear and transmit
the information in a buffer or on the display screen. Similarly,
command button 136 can instruct the fingerprint device to bypass a
buffer system and directly transmit all information to the
corresponding device, such as a phone. Of course, in one
embodiment, there may be no command buttons, wherein the entire
functionality of the system is accomplished via the fingerprint
pad.
[0091] In addition, switches 138 provide additional functions such
as a power on/off switch, detection mode switch, individual user
switch, etc. For example, the fingerprint device can be designed to
map the fingerprints of more than one individual. For efficiency
purposes, one of the switches can be configured to indicate which
individual is using the finerprint device, reducing the processing
time of the device by limiting the number of fingerprints that have
to be matched. Moreover, a detection mode switch can be utilized to
indicate the primary use, such as whether the fingerprints should
be interpreted as numbers, letters, functions, etc. Thus, when
typing a letter, the switch can instruct the device to map single
finger taps to commons letters, whereas when dialing a phone
number, the switch can instruct the device to map single finger
taps to numbers, etc.
[0092] It is understood that the fingerprint device as shown is but
one embodiment of the invention and is not limited as such. In an
alternative embodiment, the fingerprint device can be incorporated
as part of a computer or telephone, rather than a separate external
device. In addition, any technology aside for wireless
communication can be used.
[0093] With reference to FIG. 2, a mapping table 200 is shown,
which illustrates how a database system can map individual
fingerprints to one or more corresponding symbols or functions.
Mapping table 200, as shown according to one embodiment, comprises
a Fingerprint ID index 202 for storing fingerprints in the form of
numerical identification numbers, such as identification number
212. Furthermore, mapping table 200 comprises mapping indexes 204-2
for assigning a particular motion to a symbol of function.
[0094] Illustratively, tapping once with a finger corresponding to
identification number 212 may produce the number `0,` whereas the
same finger with a double tap may produce the number `6.` In turn,
all ten Arabic digits can be inputted with one hand and one
fingerprint pad, by only using single and double taps. Similarly,
one can expand on this method to input letters, symbols or other
functions, such as by using glide motion 210, etc.
[0095] Of course, the mapping table can be instructed to only map
one of several fingers, entirely or partially, as needed.
Similarly, the mapping table can assign the same function or symbol
to multiple fingers or the same finger on corresponding hands,
etc.
[0096] Notably, the mapping table of FIG. 2 can be stored locally
at the fingerprint device, remotely at a database system, or even
centrally at a central station. Indeed, storing the mapping data at
a central station enables an individual to use nearly any
fingerprint device in the central station range without having to
re-program his or her fingerprint codes. Of course, this feature
may sacrifice some of the security benefits of the fingerprint
device.
[0097] With reference to FIG. 3, a traditional watch 300 is shown,
having a fingerprint detection pad 302. According to this
embodiment, this pad can be used to incorporate a phone, radio, or
other device with the watch without having to include a bulky input
device. Thus, a user 306 can attach a headphone/microphone 304 to
effortlessly use such a watch as a phone, etc.
[0098] Similarly, with reference to FIG. 4, a calculator 400 is
shown, having a fingerprint detection pad 404 as well as a display
screen 402 and command buttons 406. Thus, a small calculator can
now incorporate more functions than many large scientific or
computer calculators in a much smaller space, via the fingerprint
pad. Here various fingerprints and motions can be mapped to
functions and mathematics calculations, similar to the methods used
above.
[0099] FIG. 5 illustrates a fingerprint detection device 500,
similar to the device 100 of FIG. 1, but with four fingerprint pads
502-508. According to one embodiment, rather than using different
motions, such as double taps or swipes, the user can use multiple
fingerprint pads to correspond with different symbols or functions.
Of course, such a device can incorporate the use of both multiple
fingerprint pads and multiple motions, etc. Similarly, rather than
having four fingerprint pads, one pad can be used, but having
sensors at each of the four corners of that one pad.
[0100] FIGS. 6a illustrates a wrist mounted telephone device 600.
Rather than having a bulky numeric pad to dial phone numbers, here
a fingerprint pad 602 is used, along with optional command buttons
604, to accomplish the same task in less space.
[0101] Similarly, FIG. 6b shows another wrist mounted telephone
device 650, but with two fingerprint pads 652 and 654, as well as
optional command buttons 656. As described above, the added one or
more fingerprint pads can be configured to increase usability, etc.
Such fingerprint pads are more convenient than having a larger
numeric pad, particularly as this device is situated on one's
wrist.
[0102] It is understood that the fingerprint detection device
described above and herein can be configured to operate in one of
many environments. For example, individual fingers can be mapped to
musical notes, wherein an individual can play music by tapping his
Or her fingers on a fingerprint pad. According to this embodiment,
seven fingers can be assigned to seven different notes or more, and
different pads or different portions of one finger or one pad can
be assigned to a higher or lower tone, etc.
[0103] In yet another embodiment the fingerprint device can be
configured to scan only a minimal portion of one's finger, rather
than the entire finger. In this embodiment, the device is not
necessarily concerned with security measures, but with
distinguishing one finger from the other finger or one portion of a
finger from another portion of same finger or another finger.
Therefore, only the minimum amount of scanning is needed, just
enough to know which finger or portion of it is being used. Of
course, the device can be configured to scan more or less depending
on the priorities of security vs. speed.
[0104] In yet another embodiment of the invention, a device can be
configured to scan for biological differences among an individual's
fingers, other than fingerprints. These biological differences
include, size, shape, position, temperature, etc. Thus, for
example, the fingerprint detection device can be configured to
quickly distinguish one finger from another based on its size and
shape, etc. This process avoids the lengthy and complex task of
scanning a fill or partial fingerprint.
[0105] According to one embodiment, this process of scanning for
biological differences is only concerned with distinguishing
between fingers of one person. Thus, the fingerprint detection
device only needs to decipher the shape and/or size of a finger to
distinguish a thumb or a portion of a thumb from an index finger or
a portion of an index finger, for example, from among five fingers
of a hand or the ten fingers of two hands. This is a simpler and
quicker task than having to distinguish the thumb of one person
from the thumb of another. This process may be accomplished via a
database of multiple thumbs, index fingers, etc. As a person
touches the fingerprint pad, the detection device matches that
finger with the many `template` fingers in the database. A finger
that matches most nearly to a thumb, for example, would be
categorized as a thumb, etc. Of course, individuals may program or
"teach" the system to recognize their individual fingers more
efficiently.
[0106] With reference to FIG. 7, a remote finger detection device
700 is shown according to yet another embodiment of the invention.
Detection device 700 comprises an optical or other scanning device
702 for detecting and scanning fingers and finger motions without
the use of the fingerprint pad of the above mentioned embodiments.
Scanning device 702 operates by capturing an image of a finger or a
portion of a finger, such as finger 704, and analyzing the finger
image against a database of finger images to determine if that
finger is a thumb, index finger, etc. Such a database can be
customized, based on user configuration, or generic, based upon
known biological differences between the various fingers of a
hand.
[0107] Thus, individuals can dial phone numbers or enter characters
via the scanning device without touching a pad. In fact, an
individual's fingers can be configured to operate as a remote
control, wherein the scanning device would be connected to a
device, such as a television. For example, an individual can signal
with finger 704 to indicate that the volume of a television should
be increased. Similarly, another finger can manipulate the channel
control of a television. Indeed, the remote scanning device can be
situated within any one or more of electronic appliances, light
switches, water and bathroom fixtures, etc. In order to avoid
unwanted activation of the detection device, an individual can
point or signal with the desired finger so that the detection
device knows that is should commence scanning.
[0108] With continued reference to FIG. 7, scanning lines 706-712
illustrate the scanning and detection process of one embodiment of
this invention. Illustratively, one method of scanning involves
configuring scanning device 702 to normally scan the entire finger
704 via normal scan lines 706 and 710. This process would compare
the image of the entire scanned thumb against other generic or
customized thumb images in the database, as mentioned above. Other
factors, such as shape and position may also play a factor in the
scanning process. Another scanning method configures scanning
device 702 to narrowly scan finger 702, such that only a portion of
finger 704 is scanned, as for example with scan lines 706 and 708.
This is a quicker and possibly more efficient process since a
smaller portion of the finger is scanned. Yet another method
configures scanning device 702 to widely scan an entire hand or
portion of a hand, as for example with scan lines 706 and 712. This
process enables the detection device to look at a larger image to
better identify finger 704. For example, the scanning device may
see that finger 704 is to the right of four other fingers of a hand
and as such must be a thumb. This process may similarly be utilized
to detect the other fingers of a hand, etc.
[0109] It is understood that the above-mentioned embodiments are
only examples of many methods that can be used to detect and
identify a finger, or different portions of a finger, via the
system of this invention. For example, nail detection can be used
according to one embodiment of this invention, wherein different
fingers are identified based on differing nail structure, size or
appearance.
[0110] It is understood that in order to enhance the security of
the device, the scanning device, according to one embodiment of the
invention, can be programmed or taught to better recognize the
image of an individual's finger. One such programming method
involves the scanning of each of an individual's fingers from
several angles so as to generate a 3-dimensional computer image of
the scanned fingers. This process enables the fingerprint detection
device to better detect a finger or portions of it, regardless of
whether it is positioned straight or sideways, etc., since it is a
complete image of all angles of the finger. In addition, according
to one embodiment, each finger can be assigned to a
[0111] different character or function based on its position or
direction, such as straight or sideways.
[0112] Another method of indication the direction of a finger,
according to one embodiment, is to first position the finger
normally, for regular scanning and/or detection. Then, the finger
can betwitched to the side or upwards, to indicate a different
input command, etc.
[0113] Furthermore, according to another embodiment, multiple
fingers can be used together in addition to them being used
separately. For example, an index finger can correspond to one
letter or number, a thumb can correspond to another, and both a
thumb an index finger used together can correspond to yet another
character, number, etc.
[0114] According to another embodiment, the scanning device can be
used in conjunction with a pad. Thus, the scanning of an
individual's fingers begin before the pad is touched, but the
complete scan is not executed until the finger touches the pad.
This feature may be desirable for those who want the assurance that
accidental finger motions will not activate the detection device.
Furthermore, it is more comfortable to some, when there is a pad or
other platform to rest one's fingers as he or she is dialing a
phone number, for example. It is understood that the scanning could
be made by the pad (e.g. sensitive pad of all kind) itself,
creating two or three dimensional images. The images may be
assigned to different symbols or functions. For example, touching
the pad with a finger in upward position (e.g. tip) can correspond
to a function or character and touching the pad with the same
finger or another finger in regular position (e.g. flat) may
correspond to another function or number.
[0115] According to yet another embodiment of the invention, the
detection device is configured to accept multiple forms of input to
enhance accuracy and ease of use. For example, the detection device
can be configured as both a finger detection and voice-recognition
device, wherein the detection device identifies a corresponding
character or function based on input from both, an individual's
finger and voice patterns.
[0116] Not only does this method enhance accuracy, but it also
enables individuals to more easily and quickly input distinct
characters, and/or functions. Illustratively, without this method,
an individual who wishes to use his or her fingers to input
alphanumeric characters must assign three or more letters or
symbols to each finger since there are many more letters and
numbers than human fingers. It is thereafter not sufficient to
merely tap one's finger when entering a character since the input
device still needs to distinguish between the several characters
assigned to that finger. Thus, providing multiple forms of input
resolves this problem.
[0117] As an individual places one's finger on the detection pad,
he or she may also speak the desired letter or function. The voice
of the individual enables the detection device to distinguish
between the many characters assigned to a particular finger. In
addition, the limitations of voice recognition are avoided since
the finger detection device narrows down the voice-recognition to
one of a few letters or symbols rather than a much larger
scope.
[0118] Furthermore, using multiple forms of input is beneficial
from a processing perspective as well. Even if only one function or
character is assigned to each finger, using voice recognition, for
example, eases the burden of the finger detection device by
providing direction as to how to process the finger. Thus, a
detection device can utilize information from both the voice and
finger recognition devices to converge on an accurate detection
result more quickly and with more accuracy.
[0119] With reference to FIG. 8, the above-mentioned detection
device 800 is shown according to one embodiment of the invention.
Detection device 800 comprises an optical scanning device 802 for
detecting and scanning fingers and finger motions as discussed with
reference to FIG. 7. Furthermore, FIG. 8 comprises a voice
recognition device 804, for detecting voice patterns, and a display
screen 806.
[0120] Illustratively, one method of providing input via detection
device 800 is to first have a finger, such as finger 808, scanned
by optical device 802. It is understood that in an alternative
embodiment voice recognition or another form of scanning can be
conducted first. Thereafter, in response to the recognition device,
display screen 806 displays the one or more letters, symbols or
functions associated with that finger. For example, finger 808 may
be associated with the number 2, the letters A, B and C, and the
symbol @. It is understood that the method of this embodiment can
be configured to operate without display 806. Now, the individual,
such as individual 810, has several options. One option is to tap
finger 808 one or more times to indicate which of the four
characters or symbols to select. Another option may be to hold
finger 808 in place until the desired character or symbol flashes
or provides another indication. Another option may be to use
voice-recognition, as described above. According to this option,
individual 810 provides a voice sample, corresponding to the
desired character or symbol, and detection device 800 selects that
symbol via voice recognition device 804.
[0121] This process overcomes many of the limitations of finger and
voice detection technologies. By having two forms of input, such as
both voice and finger patterns, the device is better able to
isolate and identify the corresponding character or function, etc.
For example, since the voice recognition device is only required to
select from a small list of characters and/or symbols the
limitations of inaccurate voice recognition is mostly avoided.
[0122] In fact, according to one embodiment of the invention, one
of the forms of input can be via a numeric keypad or other standard
input device, such as a telephone keypad. With reference to FIG.
10, a telephone keypad 1000 is shown having nine keys, such as key
1020, and a voice recognition device 1040. Thus, an individual can
more easily select a letter or symbol from such a keypad by
incorporating voice detection, for example, together with the input
device. Illustratively, an individual can select the letter "E" on
a phone keypad, via key 1020, by pressing the number `3` (1020) and
saying "E," rather than pressing two or more keys to otherwise
select that letter. This is a quick, easy, and, most importantly,
natural system for selecting a letter.
[0123] It is understood that the above-described embodiment can
further be configured to utilize voice-recognition with any of the
finger detection devices described herein. For example, voice
recognition can be combined to operate with fingerprint detection.
Further, voice recognition can also be combined to operate with
finger detection based on biological characteristics other than
fingerprints. Voice recognition can also be configured to operate
with any other device, such as eye direction recognition system, in
addition to the optical scanning device described in FIG. 8.
[0124] Notably, according to one embodiment of the invention, a
finger detection device can be configured to assign all commonly
used symbols and characters among the ten fingers of an
individual's hand. Illustratively, FIG. 9 shows a sample mapping
table, which maps all numbers, letters and many characters to
different fingers of a hand. It is understood that there are many
additional mapping formats and tables according to alternative
embodiments of this invention.
[0125] According to yet another embodiment, the finger pad
detection device of this invention can be configured to operate as
a keyboard. Illustratively, with reference to FIG. 11, a
traditional keyboard layout 1100 is shown having a plurality of
keys. This traditional layout has several disadvantages. For
example, although most typists are familiar with the layout and
location of the various keys on a keyboard, it is still necessary
to align one's hand in the proper position before initiating a
typing sequence. Thus, a typist must initially place his or her
left pinky on the letter `A` and the next finger on the letter `S`
and so forth. Once this initial positioning is complete the typing
sequence may begin, wherein the experienced typist knows which keys
to press based on their relative location to the above-mentioned
initial placement.
[0126] With this technique there is no need to view the keyboard,
speeding up the typing process. Unfortunately, many typists often
err in their initial placement, mistakenly placing the left pinky
on the letter `S` for example. This causes a faulty initial
placement where, for example, each finger is mistakenly positioned
one key to the right of its proper location. Thereafter, an entire
typing sequence may be entered only to produce illegible output
because the intended keys were mistakenly replaced by an adjacent
key.
[0127] With reference to FIG. 11a, a finger pad keyboard 1102 is
shown having a center finger pad section 1104 and five perimeter
finger pad sections 1106-1114, according to one embodiment of this
invention. The addition of finger pad sections 1104-1114 overcomes
the limitations of the traditional keyboard 1100 with the added use
of finger detection. Thus, for example, an individual's left pinky
can permanently be assigned via finger detection to the letter `A,"
the next finger assigned to the letter `S` and so forth. Rather
than positioning one's fingers on the proper keys of a keyboard, as
stated above, the finger pad dynamically calibrates the location of
keys based on the position of one's fingers.
[0128] Indeed, with reference to center finger pad section 1104
there are no keys, but rather a flat pad. When a typist initially
places his or her fingers on the center pad the detection device
calibrates the location of the keys based on the location of the
person's corresponding fingers. Thus, a typist can have the letters
`Q,` `A,` and `Z` assigned to his or her left pinky. Upon
calibration, the location of the typist's pinky will correspond to
the letter `A` and the location below or above the letter `A` will
correspond respectively to the letters `Z` and `Q` when that area
is touched by the left pinky. Similarly, the left pointer finger
can be assigned to multiple letters, such as `F,` `G,` "T,` `V` and
so forth. The center finger pad uses finger detection and
calibration location to determine dynamically which key is being
pressed. According to one embodiment, the finger pad keyboard
re-calibrates the position of the keys each time an individual
removes his or her hand from the keyboard.
[0129] According to one embodiment of the invention, perimeter
finger pad sections 1106-1114 correspond to various functions. For
example, touching pad section 1108 with one's right pinky can
correspond to the `shift` key on a traditional keyboard. Similarly
finger pad section 1110 can correspond to the space bar key of a
traditional keyboard when touched with one's thumb. Alternatively,
according to one embodiment, touching any of the finger pad
sections with one's thumb can correspond to the space bar key.
[0130] According to yet another embodiment of the invention, center
finger pad section 1104 can be configured to operate simultaneously
as a display screen or video output device. Thus, both the monitor
and keyboard of a computer, for example, can be integrated as one
device. This is possible because the keys are replaced with finger
detection pads, providing a flat or nearly flat surface for a
display image.
[0131] In an alternative embodiment, the above mentioned integrated
display screen can be configured to provide one or more displays
corresponding to the use of the finger pad keyboard. For example,
each time the keyboard calibrates itself based on the position of
the typist's fingers the integrated display screen can display
images of the corresponding keys in their calibrated location. In
addition, the displayed images can highlight when pressed to
indicate to the typist that a particular letter or command was
detected. In addition, the integrated display can be configured to
change its appearance based on different languages or arrangements
of letters etc.
[0132] According to yet another embodiment of the invention, the
finger pad detection device of this invention can be configured to
operate as an enhanced keypad. Illustratively, with reference to
FIG. 12, a traditional telephone keypad 1200 is shown, having
twelve keys, such as key 1202. Since keypad 1202 has more than one
symbol assigned to each key, multiple selections are required to
select a particular symbol. Typically, such keypads assign numbers
to each key by default. Thus, pressing key 1202 will automatically
produce the number `3.` Since numbers are more frequently desired
when using a keypad this has proved to be an efficient system.
However, if a letter or other symbol is desired, the keypad or
other system must be adjusted to temporarily remove the default
setting. Naturally, this system is disadvantageous when both keys
and letters are frequently needed since pressing a key only once is
an ambiguous selection.
[0133] According to one embodiment of this invention, a finger
detection keypad is provided (FIG. 10), wherein a different number,
letter or function is assigned to some or all fingers of one's
hand. Therefore, for example, pressing the key 1020 (FIG. 10) with
one finger produces the number `3` and pressing the same key with
another finger produces the letter `D` and so forth. Thus, every
symbol on each key of the keypad can be entered with only one key
press.
[0134] According to one embodiment, the above mentioned finger
detection keypad can be configured such that when a key is pressed
the corresponding number is output by default. In order to output
one of the corresponding letters one may use a particular assigned
finger. Thus, a particular middle finger can be assigned to the
middle letter of a keypad key, such as `B` or `E,` etc. Similarly a
right finger to a right key letter and so on. All other fingers or
a non-detected or assigned finger can correspond to the default
number.
[0135] With reference to FIG. 13, an enhanced multi-function keypad
1300 is shown, according to one embodiment of the invention. Keypad
1300 utilizes the finger detection system discussed above to
integrate multiple keys, such as nearly every key of keyboard 1100
(FIG. 11) (e.g. standard keyboard), into the limited keys of a
keypad (e.g. standard keypad). In FIG. 13, for example, these
symbols and characters are arranged in three groups, alpha1 1306
(numeric) containing numbers and numeric symbols, alpha2 1304,
containing alpha characters, symbols and functions used to edit
texts, and finally PC commands 1302. It is understood that
according to another embodiment of this invention, keypad 1300 can
have more or less keys, etc. and still function according to the
system described herein.
[0136] Keypad 1300 comprises a plurality of keys, such as key 1320,
and a plurality of command buttons, including Alpha button 1308, PC
command button 1310, Power button 1312, Send/End button 1314, Menu
button 1316, and Execute button 1318. Briefly, these command
buttons are configured to perform tasks such as switching the
display mode, operating a menu structure, turning on or off the
power, etc.
[0137] Command buttons 1308 and 1310, when employed, select one of
several different configurations. For example, with continued
reference to FIG. 13, Alpha button 1308, when pressed, can select
either Alpha 1 (e.g. numeric) configuration 1306, or Alpha 2
configuration 1304. Furthermore, PC command button 1310, when
pressed, selects PC commands configuration 1302. As illustrated,
each of these configurations display different characters, symbols
or functions. For example, if the Alpha1 configuration is selected,
touching key 1320 will produce the symbol `&` `6` or
`.backslash..". Notably, various factors, such as finger and voice
detection, will determine which of the three symbols is selected.
According to one embodiment, if no finger, voice or other input is
provided, a default result will be output. In the previous example,
the number `6` can be the default symbol. To select one of the two
other symbols, the user may speak either the symbol appellation, or
the symbol location on the key, by speaking, for example the words
"UP", or "DOWN".
[0138] Thus, many characters, numbers and symbols can be selected
via the enhanced keypad 1300 without having to add any extra keys.
As a further illustration, if a user wishes to select the letter
`0,` for example, he or she first selects the Alpha 2 configuration
1304 via command button 1308. Thereafter, the user selects key
1320, which corresponds to the key with the desired symbol. Since
this selection is still ambiguous, the user then provides another
form of input. This other form of input can be voice recognition,
lip recognition, or finger detection etc. For example, the user may
pronounce or speak the letter `0` as he or she presses key 1320 to
make that selection. If the user did not provide one of the
above-mentioned inputs then the key would default to a particular
symbol or function, such as the upward facing arrow function.
[0139] It is noted that, according to one embodiment, not every
character, function, or symbol is available at the press of one
key. For example, rarely used symbols or functions can be assigned
to multiple buttons. Illustratively, if the symbol `>` was
rarely used, for example, it could be assigned to two keys rather
than one. Thus, in order to select the `>` symbol, the user must
then simultaneously press the two assigned keys. This is
advantageous for those desiring a less cluttered keypad, etc. In
addition, using such a technique enables the configuration of an
even smaller enhanced keypad.
[0140] Notably, enhanced keypad 1300 can be configured according to
one of several embodiments. According to one embodiment, as
illustrated, all characters from each of the configurations are
simultaneously visible on the keypad. When selecting a
configuration, the characters corresponding to that configuration
illuminate, providing an indication of available characters or
symbols to the user. According to another embodiment of the
invention, only the characters or symbols corresponding to a
selected configuration are shown. Thus, keypad 1300 may have a
display similar in appearance to configurations 1302, 1304 or 1306,
etc.
[0141] It is understood that the various forms of input described
above can be combined, according to one embodiment, for added
efficiency. For example, enhanced keypad 1300 can detect both voice
and lip movement to more quickly isolate the desired symbol.
Similarly, lip recognition can be used in conjunction with finger
detection (e.g. tip, flat), and so forth.
[0142] Lip recognition is particularly useful in public locations
with high noise volume. Rather than possibly confusing a voice
recognition device, an optical sensor can be provided, such as
optical sensor 1428 (FIG. 14) to detect symbols based on the
movements of one's lips. It is understood similarly, that according
to other embodiments of this invention face recognition can be used
as well, wherein facial expressions and characteristics are
detected to provide input to the devices described herein.
Moreover, face and lip recognition can be used simultaneously,
according to one embodiment, for added accuracy. Similarly, all
forms of recognition disclosed herein can be used in conjunctions
with one or more other forms of recognition to provide enhanced
convenience or accuracy.
[0143] With reference to FIG. 13a, the recognition technique
described above with reference to FIG. 13 is shown, wherein
individual/distinct fingers are assigned to various keys. In this
embodiment, character arrangement of the keys 0 to 9, are assigned
to 10 different fingers. Different positions of a finger on for
example, a sensitive pad, may be assigned to different group of
characters. For example, to user's left thumb in upward (tip)
position, numeric symbols "{", "6", and ".vertline." are assigned.
To the same finger in downward (flat) position, characters "J",
"K", "L" and function "<=" are assigned. Still by pressing the
pad with, for example, the same finger's nail "PU" command may be
selected. To select a character, an additional recognition system,
such as voice recognition, may be used. This system may also
replace a computer keyboard.
[0144] With reference to FIG. 14, an enhanced keypad 1400 according
to another embodiment of the invention is shown, additionally
comprising a finger detection pad 1408, a voice recognition device
1426, and a lip recognition optical device 1428, as described
above. According to this embodiment, rather than selecting a
configuration via the above-mentioned command buttons, finger
recognition is used to select a corresponding configuration. For
example, key 1402 displays the Alpha2 and Alpha1 configuration
simultaneously on a respective right side 1404 and left side 1406.
Fingers 1422 and 1424 can be used, for example, to select from the
corresponding configurations. Illustratively, finger 1422 can be
assigned to the Alpha 2 configuration (left side 1406) and finger
1424 can be assigned to Alpha1 configuration (right side 1404).
Thus, pressing key 1402 with finger 1424, for example, will select
a symbol from the Alpha1 configuration. Thereafter, to resolve the
ambiguity between symbols `?` `2` and `&` of key 1402, voice or
lip recognition can be provided, as discussed above or will be
described later in the embodiment of the FIG. 14b. Alternatively,
multiple fingers can be used to resolve the ambiguity via finger
detection means. It is understood that any finger or any portion of
a finger can be assigned to any of the above-mentioned sides 1404
and 1406. Also, any configuration can be situated on any one of
sides 1404 and 1406. According to one embodiment, more than two
sides can be incorporated as well. For example, PC commands
configuration described above, may be located on the bottom side of
the keys as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14b (1458). To select a command,
the user can, for example, press a button by a finger or a portion
of a finger that commands are assigned to. If more than one command
is assigned to a key, an additional recognition system such as
voice as described above, may be used.
[0145] It is understood that the keypad surface maybe covered by a
one-piece detecting pad, covering keypad keys, or itself
constituting keypad keys. The detecting pad may also be made from a
plurality of smaller pads, each pad covering a different key of the
keypad or itself constituting a keypad key. It must be noted that
the keypad may be constituted from a one-piece sensitive pad,
theoretically divided by lines in for example 12 squares, each
square being defined as a specific key, according to it location on
the keypad.
[0146] According to one embodiment, a calibration step, using any
of described finger recognition methods, can be used to assign
individual fingers, or positions of fingers (e.g. tip, flat) on the
pad, to various configurations. This step may involve pressing one,
two or more fingers against finger pad 1408, or any one, two or
more of the keypad keys, to provide the keypad with data for future
detection. It is noted, that according to one embodiment, detecting
between two fingers, may be a simple task of isolating the larger
or smaller finger, wherein two differently sized fingers are used.
This is true for finger portions such as finger's tip and finger
flat portions by which the pad is touched. Naturally, alternative
embodiments may utilize more sophisticated finger print or finger
shape detection means, such as the detection means described
above.
[0147] According to another embodiment of the invention, finger pad
1408 may be configured as a finger pad input device, similar to the
embodiments discussed above. Thus, one may assign characters,
symbols or functions to one's fingers and provide input to the
system without the need to press the keypad keys (e.g. pointing
fingers to keypad keys). Voice and lip recognition can also be
employed with the finger pad 1408 to provide added functionality.
Similarly, finger pad 1408, in one embodiment, may be excluded from
the keypad device 1400 altogether.
[0148] With reference to FIG. 14b, an enhanced keypad 1450 is
shown, according to another embodiment of the invention, configured
to operate efficiently with the use of multiple fingers or multiple
portions of fingers. Such efficiency is accomplished, according to
one embodiment, by placing all letters of the English alphabet on
the left side of each key and all Arabic numerals on the right side
of each key. Illustratively, key 1452, for example, is configured
with a left side 1456 having letters, among other symbols, and a
right side 1454, having numbers, among other symbols. It is
understood that the system described herein is only an illustration
and can be configured according to many formats, such as with upper
and lower sides, etc.
[0149] Notably, one reason for configuring the device, which
according to one embodiment separates numbers and letters, is that
users typically don't use both letters and numbers simultaneously
when typing. In addition, to limit the passing from one mode to
another, some characters frequently used in both modes, may be
provided on more than one side (e.g. numeric side and alpha side).
For example the symbol "-" is provided in key 1407 in numeric
configuration and in key 1409 in alpha configuration. In FIG. 13,
character "." Is provided on key 1307 in numeric mode and on key
1309 in alpha mode. Yet for more efficiency, and as shown in FIG.
14a, the cursors (e.g. left, right, up,) or other characters, may
by provided on separate button 1430, and their place could be
occupied by other characters frequently used in both modes. For
example, as shown in FIG. 14a, character "(", which was assigned to
the right side group on button 1434, now can also be assigned to
left side group on button 1432, replacing cursor "=>". Key 1430,
may be common to all modes.
[0150] With continued reference to FIG. 14b, an individual is thus
able to select any of the displayed letters via one of several
fingers. For example, three fingers can be assigned to letter
symbols (e.g. alpha mode), wherein each finger corresponds to one
of the three vertical rows, as illustrated with rows 1462-1466. A
fourth finger, such a pinky for example, can correspond to the
numbers (e.g. numeric mode), in all rows. Thus, pressing any of the
keys with a pinky would output the corresponding number (e.g.
numeric default character). In order to select a non-default
numeric character, other input, such as voice or lip recognition,
must be provided to make the selection. For example, the user can
say with voice, lip, etc. the words "up" `down`, to identify the
position of the desired character or function. Similarly, pressing
any of the keys with the corresponding alpha mode finger will
output an alpha default character such as the center letter, or
other default letter. In order to select a non-default letter or
character, other input, such as voice or lip recognition, must be
provided to make the selection. For example, the user can say with
voice, lip, etc. the words `up" `down` left` or `right` to identify
the position of the desired letter, character or function.
[0151] Similarly, according to one embodiment, the user can
actually speak the desired letter, character or function, rather
than provide its location on the key. In addition, a thumb, or
other finger, according to one embodiment can be used to correspond
to PC or computer functions also provided to the enhanced keypad.
It is understood that, according to one embodiment, only one
finger, a portion of a finger or a position of that finger, rather
than three fingers, is needed to represent the letters on the input
device.
[0152] As shown in FIG. 14b, alpha configurations are arranged on
the left side of the keypad keys (e.g. left side of the key 1452).
Keys 2 to 9, usually contain three or four letters that are located
on their standard positions on a telephone keypad key (e.g. top
1456). An additional character or function is located on the middle
left side of the keys (e.g. middle 1456). To isolate a character,
or a function, of alpha configuration situated on a key (e.g.
1454), a user first selects the alpha group of that key, by for
example, pressing the key with a finger, or portion of a finger,
that alpha mode is assigned to. If he does not combine any other
recognition means such as voice, the system will select the default
character or function situated on the middle left side of the key
(e.g. <=). If the user desires to select one of the letters on
the key, he may simply spell that letter.
[0153] To other buttons such as 1455, where no letter is assigned
to the key, usually three alpha symbols are provided. They are
located on top left, middle left and bottom left, on the key. The
default may still be the middle left character. It will be selected
as described for buttons containing letters. To select on of the
other characters or functions, the user may speak for example, the
word "UP", for the top left character, or the word "DOWN", for the
bottom left one.
[0154] Characters and functions in numeric mode are arranged on the
right side of the keypad keys. Each key may usually have up to
three characters, one in the top right, one in the middle right and
one in the bottom right. Numbers from 0 to 9, and other symbols on
a standard telephone keypad such as, "*" and "#", may occupy their
habitual locations on the keys. They can for example, be placed in
the middle right locations on the keys (e.g. 1454). To choose a
number or a numeric character, the user first selects the numeric
mode with numeric assigned finger as described for alpha mode. If
the user does not use any additional recognition means, then the
system selects the default character in the middle right position
of the key (e.g. "1" on the key 1455). To select the numeric
character on the top right or bottom right of the key, the user can
use additional recognition means such as voice, by speaking, for
example, its location on the key, by using, for example, the words
"UP", or "DOWN".
[0155] Other functions such as PC commands, may be located on
different keys of the keypad, for example, bottom center of the
keys (e.g. 1458). To select a command such as a PC command, the
user can, for example, press a button by a finger or a portion of a
finger that commands are assigned to. If more than one command is
assigned to a key, then an additional recognition system as voice
such as "UP", "DOWN", can be added to finer recognition system.
[0156] The above-mentioned embodiment is a user-friendly system. It
has many advantages such as:
[0157] The keypad may be of standard telephone-type.
[0158] All characters, commands, and functions existing on a
computer keyboard maybe available on it.
[0159] Letters are situated on their habitual locations on the
keypad keys.
[0160] Numbers are also located on their standard location on the
keypad keys.
[0161] For selecting a letter, a user pushes the corresponding key
and naturally spells the letter.
[0162] For selecting or dialing a number the user simply pushes the
corresponding button.
[0163] By placing frequently used symbols or functions in numeric
or alpha configuration as defaults, user may select them by simply
pushing the corresponding button.
[0164] For all other numeric and alpha symbols or functions (less
frequently used), the user simply pushes the corresponding keys and
speaks the words "UP" or "DOWN".
[0165] For all commands the user simply pushes the corresponding
button.
[0166] It is noted, that according to one embodiment, if the
recognition device of this invention does not satisfactorily output
the desired letter, number or symbol, the user may select a
`backspace` or error notification key. This key may be `Bk` key
1458 or perhaps an error notification button, such as button 1460,
for example. Thereafter, the input device will provide an
alternative selection, which may or may not correspond to the
originally intended selection, wherein the user may again select
the `backspace` key, and so forth. According to one embodiment, the
`backspace` key simply removes the previous selection without
providing an alternative selection. Rather, the input device may,
according to one embodiment, remember the previous selection so
that the same error will not be repeated. According to one
embodiment of the invention, a spelling checker can be provided to
enhance the detection based on the correct spelling of a typed
word, etc. For example, if a user is typing a word and the
detection device is having difficulty identifying one of the
corresponding letters, the letter which completes a correctly
spelled word will be chosen according to one embodiment. For this
purpose the system may contain a database of words and functions of
one or more languages in its memory.
[0167] With reference to FIG. 14c, an enhanced keypad 1470 is
shown, according to another embodiment of the invention. Keypad
1470 displays an arrangement of letters that are positioned in a
non-alphabetic order. Keypad 1470 is organized as such in order to
enhance the effectiveness of the lip, voice, or other recognition
techniques of this invention. Specifically, the letters that are
most easily distinguishable via such recognition techniques are
kept together on the same key. Similarly, the letters that are hard
to distinguish are placed on separate keys. This reduces
potentially frequent error between two letters that are most
difficult for the input device to distinguish. It is understood,
that enhanced keypad 1470 displays only one of many possible
arrangements, and others can be configured based on the
distinguishableness of characters. It is noted that, according to
one embodiment, to tones or tone translations provided by phone
keys can still be maintained even though the letters are arranged
differently. According to one embodiment, whenever a letter is
detected the tone corresponding to the key traditionally associated
with that letter is provided. This provides backward compatibility
with other phone devices and systems.
[0168] With reference to FIGS. 14d and 14e respective hand and
horizontal arrangements of keys are respectively shown, similar to
the arrangements described with reference to FIGS. 15b and 15c.
FIGS. 14b and 14c illustrate, according to one embodiment, the
alpha groups assigned to fingers, and numeric groups to assigned to
buttons. The buttons are differently arranged in FIGS. 14d and
14e.
[0169] According to another embodiment of this invention, enhanced
keypad device can alternatively be provided with light sensors or
pressure sensing means for finger detection, among other things.
Illustratively, with reference to FIG. 15, enhanced keypad 1500 is
shown having light sensors 1502 and pressure sensing means 1504. It
is understood, that in another embodiment of this invention the
light sensor and pressure sensing means can operate distinctly
without the presence of the other or in conjunction for more
efficient detection. Furthermore, it is also understood that light
and pressure sensing means of this embodiment can be configured to
operate with other devices, such as the detection and input devices
described above, in addition to the enhanced keypad 1500 of FIG.
15. It is noted that using such detection means a pad is not
necessary according to one embodiment of the invention. Individuals
can use optical, light, laser or other detection means, for
example, to detect finger or other movements in the air without a
pad of surface, etc.
[0170] Light sensors 1502 operate by employing detection in two
ways. First, the sensors detect the location of the finger on the
keypad, and second they determine the particular size and/or shape
of the finger being used. The location of the finger is determined
based on intersecting X and Y coordinates of the bi-directional
light sensing rays. For example, light sensors can be projected
both horizontally and vertically. The horizontal and vertical rays
that sense a blocking object, such as a finger, are activated.
Thus, the location of the finger is the same location where the
activated horizontal and vertical light sensors intersect on the
two dimensional pad of the keypad.
[0171] The size and/or shape of the particular finger being used is
determined based on the number of activated light sensors. A wider
or larger finger will naturally activate more sensors, wherein the
light sensors are configured with sufficient sensitivity or
resolution. Thus, based on a size or shape determination, the
particular finger used can be isolated. Once the location and
precise finger is identified, such a keypad or input device can
operate in a similar fashion to one of the embodiments described
above.
[0172] Pressure sensing means 1504 are also able to detect the
location of the finger and the particular type of finger used. The
location is determined based on the pressure mechanism. Namely, the
location with the sensed pressure is the location where the finger
is pressing. Moreover, a very sensitive pressure sensing device can
also determine the precise size of a finger based on the precise
area that the pressure is sensed. Similar to the light sensor,
differently sized fingers can be detected in such a fashion.
Notably, such very sensitive pressure sensing devices are available
in the art. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,952,585 to Trantzas et al,
titled Portable Pressure Sensing Apparatus . . . describes such a
device and is hereby incorporated by reference into this
application. Such system can operate in a similar fashion to one of
the embodiments described above. It is understood that pressure
sensing pad and light sensing means can be used in conjunction,
first system determining the location of the finger to determine,
for example, the key presses, and second system measuring the
finger size, to determine which finger was used.
[0173] It is noted that according to one embodiment of the
invention, the above described light and pressure sensing means can
be configured to operate with other forms of input or detection as
well. For example, voice or lip detection can be incorporated for
added functionality or accuracy.
[0174] According to one embodiment of the invention, the devices
utilizing the above described light sensors and/or pressure sensing
means are configured without keys, buttons, or similar input signal
tools. Indeed, with continued reference to FIG. 15, a recessed pad
1506 is shown, having no keys or buttons on the center input
section. Rather, images or displays of commands, if any, are
displayed on a flat surface. The configuration of this embodiment
provides for several advantages. Specifically, with a flat and/or
smooth surface the recessed pad 1506 can be configured for
additional uses. For example, such a device can be configured to
operate both as an input device for a portable wrist watch phone as
well as a latch. Illustratively, when the phone is not in use, the
flat area of pad 1506 can incorporate a locking or latch mechanism
to seal the wrist watch phone around one's wrist. Thus, the pad can
become deactivated and hidden from view. Furthermore, the light
sensors or pressure sensing means can automatically activate when
the latch is released and the phone is removed from the user's
wrist for normal use. In particular, since the light sensors
operate a distance above pad 1506, the recessed area is ideal for
such a latch or locking mechanism.
[0175] With reference to FIG. 18, the above described wrist watch
phone/PDA, 1800 with enhanced keypad 1806 is illustrated according
to one embodiment of the invention. Briefly, the phone has a
removable portion 1804 that latches or connects with recessed
enhanced keypad 1806 as described above. When disconnected, handset
phone 1804 can be opened to handset 1802 for use as a phone with
keypad 1806, etc.
[0176] It is understood that the input and recognition devices
described herein can be configured with a variety of tools and/or
surfaces. For example, according to one embodiment, an input device
can be provided with keys, while according to another a touch
sensitive display screen is utilized, etc. Similarly, any
recognition device can be incorporated, including camera and
optical detection, laser detection, and rayon detection. Notably,
regardless of the surface, according to one embodiment each of the
keys or surface locations can be customized by the user to
correspond to different functions, letters, symbols, etc. Should
the surface be of a technology that cannot dynamically display the
user changes, an overlay can be provided to provide via paper or
other material a key imagery that corresponds to the user
customization.
[0177] With reference to FIG. 15b, an enhanced keypad 1550 is
shown, according to another embodiment of this invention, having a
vertical arrangement of keys, such as key 1552. Keypad 1550 is
configured to operate similar in function to the above-mentioned
devices, such as keypad 1500 and keypad 1450. Rather than being
structured according to a standard keypad structure, however,
keypad 1550 is arranged vertically. It is thus understood that,
according to other embodiments of the invention, various
arrangements are possible, other than the typical rectangular
structure of a traditional keypad. Similarly, with reference to
FIG. 15c an angled keypad 1570 is shown, arranged so that both
hands of a user can more easily rest on the keys, such as key 1572.
As detailed above, these embodiment may also comprise other input
surfaces and devices, such as a smooth finger pad surface, in
addition to the keys of this embodiment.
[0178] Referring to FIGS. 29a, 29b, and 29c, a muli-section keypad
using technologies described before, is shown. In the closed
position (see FIG. 29c), this device minimizes the size of the
keypad. It is understood that the sections may be connected to each
other by any means as described for the FIGS. 16-17. This keypad
may contain other features as LCD display, ear-piece, microphone,
camera, etc. (FIG. 29b), as described for the FIGS. 20 to 22. In
this example the keypad is made of two sections, one section
containing two rows of four keys each, and the other containing one
row of four keys. This keypad can be used for devices such as
wrist-mounted phones or wrist mounted PDA devices.
[0179] As previously mentioned, characters, functions, symbols, or
combination of them can be assigned to scanned portions, positions,
or motions of one or more fingers. For example, to two different
positions or portions of a finger on a sensitive pad, two group of
one or more characters, functions, or symbols can be assigned. The
scanning system can be made by thermal, pressure, optical, or any
other recognition means.
[0180] This method can be used for selecting different group of
characters in the enhanced keypad 1400. According to another
embodiment of the invention, instead of using different fingers to
select different configurations, different portions of a finger can
be used to select different configurations. For example, tip
portion 1422a of finger 1422 can be assigned to one certain
function and the flat portion 1422b of finger 1422 can be assigned
to a different function. Furthermore, the keys or the buttons of
the keypad are configured such that various portions of the user's
fingers can be detected. Thus, a user can select the alpha
configuration by pressing one of the buttons or keys of the keypad
with the tip portion 1422a and, likewise the user can select the
numeric configuration, with the flat portion 1422b of the same
finger.
[0181] This system will allow more flexibility and can multiply the
assignment possibilities for a user. For example, by pressing a key
of the keypad with flat portion 1422b of finger 1422, a user can
select the alpha configuration. He can also select the numeric
configuration by pressing a key of the keypad by tip portion 1422a
of the same finger 1422 or another tip portion of another finger,
for example 1424. The commands could be selected for example by
pressing a button by the thumb, a portion of a finger or both of
them. According to one preferred embodiment of the invention, as
mentioned before, by combining keys of a keypad, finger recognition
systems, voice/speech recognition systems and arrangements of
characters, symbols and functions (hereafter symbols) on the keys
of the keypad (e.g. telephone keypad), a user can achieve to
isolate one of those symbols by pressing on, or pointing to, a
button only one time. As explained in more detail hereinafter,
other isolating means as a click system for the keypad keys can be
added to above-mentioned combinations.
[0182] It is understood that in some embodiments, selecting a
symbol may not require all of the above-mentioned
character/function selection means--such as voice or finger
position or finger shape or fingerprint--but only some or even one
of them. For example the combination of above-mentioned means of
selecting a symbol may be different for each keypad or a key of a
keypad. Thus, for different keypads different arrangements of
symbols on the keys may be provided. As such, a key may contain
only one or two symbols requiring, for example, one of the
selection means to select the desired symbol.
[0183] As mentioned before, in the embodiments that employ voice or
speech recognition, for choosing a letter, the user pushes a button
with the finger or a portion a finger that alpha characters are
assigned to, and in the same time he only has to speak the letter
desired by him. For all other symbols in alpha configuration he may
not have to speak. A symbol shall be selected by default by only
pressing the key without speaking. In the numeric configuration the
user usually has three possibilities per key. If he does not use
his voice the default symbol will automatically be selected. For
other numeric symbols on the key, he can use his voice to say for
example "up", or "down" or any other voice signal he desires (these
voice signals and combinations of assignments to different
fingerprints could previously been taught to the machine by one or
more users). Preferably, numbers or other numeric symbols used
frequently may be used as default choices. In this case the user
will rarely use his voice to select a numeric symbol.
[0184] The above embodiment permits the user to easily, quickly and
naturally enter texts and functions through the telephone
keypad.
[0185] In still another embodiment of the invention, the keys of
the keypad are made from click sensitive pads. A click sensitive
pad is configured to respond to two levels of finger pressure. A
light pressure generates one response and a heavier pressure
generates another response while indicating to the user by means of
a click. The click system can be combined with any other
recognition system and specially with the ones described before.
For example in FIG. 14, a click can be combined with the finger
recognition system to select a configuration. A user can select the
alpha configuration by pressing slightly a key with the finger
1422, and using numeric configuration by pushing a key more
strongly with the same or another finger and thus causing a
click.
[0186] The above-mentioned system is also useful to make selection
of symbols without using a user's voice. A group of symbols are
available on a key. A user can assign to each finger a number of
those symbols. A specific motion of a finger on the key or the
portion of the finger by which the key is pressed, may select the
symbol desired by a user. For example in FIG. 27a, eight different
symbols are arranged on this key. They are arranged in two rows and
four columns. The letters are arranged in the upper row 2404 and a
group of other symbols in the lower row 2402.
[0187] Four different fingers of a user can be assigned to these
four different columns, one for each. By pressing the button, for
example by a finger, the respective column 2412 is selected. If the
user presses the button with the flat portion of the finger in
downward position (e.g. flat portion), the letter "X" is selected.
He can select "+", by pressing the key by tip portion of his
finger.
[0188] Instead of finger portion by which the button is pressed, a
click system can be added to the key. In this case, for example
after a user selects a column 2412 by a corresponding finger, he
can push it with his finger in any position or portion. He can
select the letter "X", by pressing the button slightly. If he
desires to select the "+" symbol, he must press the button with
more pressure to click the button.
[0189] In still another embodiment of the invention, FIG. 28, a
group of symbols are assigned to each key of a keypad. In order to
select a desired symbol through this embodiment, different
recognition systems such as speech/voice recognition systems and
finger recognition systems can be combined with, for example, a
touch sensitive keypad having a click system under each button.
[0190] To ease the user's input of the symbols of a key, they may
be arranged in different rows on that key. In the example of FIG.
28, the symbols are arranged in three rows. Upper row comprises,
for example, the letters "ABC". To choose a letter from this row
the user has to push the button with a finger and simultaneously
spelling the desired letter.
[0191] A middle row contains, for example, two symbols. For
choosing one of those symbols different methods can be used. Left
side symbol can be assigned to the tip portion of a finger and the
right side to the tip portion of another finger both touches
without clicking the button. Voice inputs as "left" or "right" can
also be used to select one of the symbols combined with the
pressing of the button by any finger in, for example, upward (e.g.
tip) position.
[0192] Lower row comprises two more characters. To select a symbol
of this row, the user may use the same system as the second row but
with adding a click of the button by pushing it stronger. It is
appreciated to those skilled in the art that many variations of the
combinations of the selection means can be employed without
departing from the present invention.
[0193] With reference to FIG. 14, when a button 1403 is pressed
with the alpha assigned finger, and a letter is spoken, the voice
or speech recognition system will try to understand which one of
the only three letters "A" or "B" or "C" was pronounced. Because
the system employs recognition of only three letter sounds,
different users can use the same system without voice training
requirements.
[0194] Thus, many of the benefits of the present invention can be
employed to provide an improved keypad system that is versatile,
compact and user friendly. As mentioned before, using a finger
recognition system for entering symbols through the telephone-type
keypad or selecting a configuration of symbols (e.g. alpha,
numeric, function), a user can use his fingerprints or finger
characteristics according to at least the following principles
separately or combined;
[0195] At least one configuration of symbols, such as a set of
alpha characters or a set of numeric characters or a set of
commands, can be assigned to at least one finger or a combination
of fingers.
[0196] At least one configuration of symbols can be assigned to at
least a portion, or at least a motion of one finger.
[0197] According to above-mentioned principles, a user at his
convenience, can use for example:
[0198] Only one finger to select different configurations, for
example by pressing a key by different portion of a finger (e.g.
pressing a key with the tip portion of the finger or with the flat
portion of a finger).
[0199] One or more fingers, each individually, selecting a
different configuration. For example a forefinger for alpha
configuration, a thumb for PC commands configuration and a pinky
for numeric configuration.
[0200] One or more fingers, each individually, selecting the same
configuration. For example a user can use his three middle fingers
for alpha configuration, while he uses his thumb for PC commands
configuration and his pinky for numeric configuration.
[0201] At least one finger to select at least one configuration.
For example to select the command symbol "ctrl" a user can press
the button by his thumb, and to select the command symbol "pr" he
may press simultaneously the "ctrl" button by his thumb and "pr"
button by his forefinger.
[0202] It is understood that the fingerprint recognition usage can
be applied to the fingers of both hands. In addition, voice, lip
and other recognition systems may be combined with finger
recognition systems mentioned above.
[0203] As mentioned before, for speaking silently, for example the
letters, a microphone could be arranged in front of the user's
mouth. Another solution is to provide a commercially available
microphone in user's ear permitting to input his voice through
vibration of his ear bone.
[0204] The above mentioned systems of input may be integrated in
many devices such as mobile and fix telephones, PDAs, computers,
laptops, remote controllers of TVs or other electronic devices,
faxes, etc. In addition, independent input devices according to
systems described before may be manufactured separately and be used
as external input devices for above mentioned products.
[0205] The system may include one or more databases of words in
different languages. A predictive word recognition system may also
be combined with the system to make the entry of a word possible
before entering it entirely. This system may allow an automatic
selection of the desired word by the machine, mostly before ending
to enter it entirely even without the need of the user
interference. This is possible, because by selecting individually a
character or a symbol through this system (e.g. character by
character), and the very small numbers of selection of
corresponding words for keys pressed, it will be easy to determine
the desired word before finishing to enter it entirely.
[0206] Even if the user enters a wrong letter of a word or the
machine fails to identify a given letter, since in most cases other
letters of the word are entered correctly, the predictive word
recognition system can automatically correct the wrong letter.
[0207] It is understood that instead of speaking a letter the user
can speak a word while pressing the corresponding buttons. In this
case the databases mentioned before will be used to select the
desired letter by a word recognition system. The end of a word can
be determined by many symbols or functions such as ".", ";", space,
enter command, etc.
[0208] It is also understood that the sensitive keypad can be made
either from one pad which is combined with all the keys, or a
plurality of separate smaller pads combined with each key (e.g.
twelve separate pads for twelve keys of a keypad).
[0209] According to yet another embodiment of the invention, one or
more of the above-mentioned devices, such as finger pad detection
device 800 or enhanced keypad 1400, can be configured to operate
with a miniature display screen or communication/computer card.
Such a screen or card could comprise a flexible plastic LCD or
similar device for the display. It is understood, of course, that
the above mentioned input devices can be employed to operate with
other devices, in addition to the miniature display screen or
communication/computer card described herein. For example, enhanced
keypad 1400 can be configured as part of a wrist watch phone, a
computer, a PDA device, etc. It is also understood that such LCD
may also be used for any device that needs to have an LCD, such as
mobile phones. The communication between them may be wireless.
[0210] With reference to FIG. 16, a multi sectioned LCD pad is
shown 1600, according to one embodiment of this invention,
comprising a front LCD portion 1602, a rear memory slot portion
1604 for extra memory of battery power, and a rear enhanced keypad
portion 1612. It is noted that there other components not shown in
the drawings, such as interior hardware, that are additional
components of LCD pad 1600.
[0211] Furthermore, multi sectioned LCD pad 1600 comprises a hinge
portion 1616 for folding, the pad in half to the size of a credit
card, for example. It is noted that, according to another
embodiment, LCD pad can be extended outward and inward rather than
folded, etc. Notably, according to one embodiment, the entire hinge
portion of binge 1616 is situated on the rear portion of pad 1600
so that the front LCD portion 1602 appears flat for enhanced image
visibility, etc. With continued reference to FIG. 16, the front
portion of LCD pad 1600 is shown as image 1606, the rear or back
portion is shown as image 1608, and the closed or folded portion of
LCD pad 1600 is shown as image 1610.
[0212] According to one embodiment, rear enhanced keypad portion
1612 operates in the same manner as keypad 1500 (FIG. 15). For
example light sensor means can be provided for input and finger
detection, such as light sensor means 1614. Moreover, it is
understood that enhanced keypad 1612 can be attached to the front
portion of multi sectioned LCD pad 1600 as well, such that both the
LCD and enhanced keypad can be more easily viewed and used
together. According to such an embodiment, the rear portion can
remain unused, such that when folded the LCD pad 1600 can slip into
one's wallet or pocket similar to a credit card or miniature
device. The interior sealed portion would comprise the LCD and
enhanced keypad.
[0213] According to one embodiment of the invention, LCD pad 1600
can operate as a PDA, a wrist watch PDA, a computer, an interactive
newspaper, etc. Illustratively, LCD pad 1600 can be attached to (or
telecommunicate with) a miniature computer device for an added LCD
display screen, as well as added input means via enhanced keypad
1612, for example. Alternatively, the card may be employed as a PDA
for use while simultaneously positioned on one's wrist as a
watch.
[0214] Alternatively, the card may be employed as a functional LCD
display to add on to telephones, cellular phones or other devices,
such that interaction with the device via the LCD pad is possible.
For example, when dialing a computer automated system via a phone,
LCD pad 1600 can be configured to display any computer menus or
other automated selections on the LCD. This avoids the hassle of
pressing numerous phone keys in order to get the desired selection
or location. Moreover, LCD pad 1600 can provide added voice
messaging and other computerized features to a phone or other
communication device.
[0215] Briefly, FIGS. 16a-16e show various embodiments of the above
described LCD device and enhanced keypad. Various multi-sectioned
LCDs and keypad configurations are displayed, according to one of
the several embodiments of this invention.
[0216] It is understood that LCD device of FIGS. 16a may be used as
an external display for mobile electronics and telecommunication
devices with no LCD or having a miniaturized one. In this case a
person having, for example, a wrist telephone on his wrist, may
carry an additional credit card size LCD in his pocket. The credit
card size LCD can be used, for example, for displaying short
messages entered by the user's phone keypad. The credit card size
LCD can be multi sectioned. When opened or unfolded, the LCD width
of FIG. 16b or 16c, can almost be the same width of a standard
A4/A5 paper, permitting the user to work on a real size document.
It should be noted that the connection between telecommunication
device and the external LCD may be wired or wireless by any
means.
[0217] In yet another embodiment external LCDs may be available in
many places, such as offices or restaurants. Carriers of, for
example, mobile phones with LCD size limitations, can use this
available external LCDs found everywhere. In one embodiment, the
user may enter a secret code, known by his phone, in the external
LCD to permit communications between that LCD and his phone. After
usage the user decodes the external LCD. This system limits the
communication to only desired LCD and avoids the connection with
other LCDs available nearby.
[0218] FIG. 16d, illustrates an external multi-sectioned interface,
comprising an enhanced input device as discussed in connection with
the previously-described embodiments, and a multi-sectioned credit
card size LCD. The credit card size LCD may be detachable and
wirelessly connected to the keypad.
[0219] FIG. 16e, illustrates a credit card size computer,
comprising an enhanced input device as described in embodiments
before, memory (not shown), battery and other features (not shown),
and a multi sectioned credit card size LCD. The credit card size
LCD may be detachable and wirelessly connected to the computer. It
should be noted that components that computer, such as battery,
memory, etc., may also be credit cad size and may be
detachable.
[0220] FIG. 16g, illustrates a credit card size computer and
telecommunication device, comprising an enhanced input device as
described in embodiments before, memory (not shown), battery and
other features (not shown), and a multi sectioned credit card size
LCD. The credit card size LCD may be detachable and wirelessly
connected to the computer.
[0221] With reference to FIG. 17, a large LCD panel 1700 is shown,
according to one embodiment of the invention. LCD panel 1700
comprises a front LCD portion 1708 shown on front view 1700 and a
rear portion for optional input devices or other components (not
shown). It is understood that such input device can be situated on
the front portion as well, as discussed above. According to one
embodiment of the invention, LCD panel 1700 is comprised of plastic
and of flexible material for added convenience and agility.
[0222] Large LCD panel 1700 can be folded to approximately a forth
of its size via folding hinges 1706 and 1708. Notably, view 1702
illustrates large LCD panel 1700 in a half-folded view.
Furthermore, view 1704 illustrates LCD panel 1700 in a fully folded
view. It is understood that large LCD panel 1700 can be configured
with more or less hinge mechanisms to further increase or decrease
the size and compactness of the device.
[0223] According to one embodiment of the invention, LCD panel 1700
can be configured to operate as a digital newspaper. Thus,
individuals can use LCD panel 1700 to download digitized news from
one or more news sources and thereafter read the news or other
desired information. Such a device is advantageous since news can
be continuously updated throughout the day and the format and
content of the news can be customized by the user.
[0224] For example, one user may program the LCD panel 1700 to only
download sports news from three particular sources. Another user
can only view local news, and so forth. It is understood that LCD
panel 1700 can display information in addition to the information
traditionally provided by newspapers. Indeed, a digital environment
provides means for features that are unavailable with the
traditional newspaper format. According to one embodiment of the
invention, the above-described downloading, uploading and updating
is accomplished via the Internet. Similarly, according to one
embodiment, any of the devices described herein can be configured
to upload or download data via the Internet.
[0225] According to one embodiment, LCD panel 1700 is provided to
users at various download stations. Rather than waiting a possibly
extended period to download the desired news. Kiosks, or similar
sites, can be introduced, wherein individuals pick up and drop off
their LCD panel devices for faster downloading. Such locations can
have bandwidth or other technology not available to the average
user. According to one embodiment, such LCD panel device can be the
property of a news corporation, wherein individuals borrow or rent
the devices for digital news. Such embodiments enable the majority
of downloading to occur at the Kiosk and minimal, non-intensive
downloading can occur through other means, such as wireless
technology, to update the news, if needed, while the LCD panel is
in the user's possession.
[0226] This system and method has many advantages. Kiosks may
permanently be updated with the last versions of any news agency's
information and other publications. A user may possess a card
(hereafter "Newscard"). The LCD device, (hereafter "Newslcd"), can
be borrowed from a kiosk using Newscard. It may be returned to that
kiosk or any other kiosk as well. Newscard will be updated to show
that its owner has a Newslcd with him. The user can ask the kiosk
owner to provide him with a copy of any publication he desires.
Since the publication is only required to be locally copied, the
procedure will be practically instantaneous.
[0227] For payment, the user either uses his Newscard or another
payment system. If the user uses his Newscard, he may receive a
monthly statement for all publications he has purchased during that
period. If the user does not want to carry the Newslcd permanently,
he simply can deposit it in the nearest kiosk and his Newslcd will
be updated accordingly, showing that he does not possess a Newslcd.
The Newslcd may contain a floppy disk accommodation, permitting the
user to remove the diskette containing his publications. At any
moment the usr can access to another kiosk to borrow another
Newslcd. It must be noted that the diskette maybe of any kind and
it could be the property of any party. Newslcd, may be a large
flexible, for example plastic, LCD. It may comprise a reduced
keypad for functions such as "next page", or zoom.
[0228] According to one embodiment, the large LCD panel can be
designed without hinges, such that no folding is possible. Such a
device may comprise plastic LCD technology, as mentioned above, for
added flexibility.
[0229] It is noted that, according to one embodiment of the
invention, large LCD pad 1700 can also be a fully operational
computer or similar device. For example, the LCD display portion
can operate both as a display screen and as an input device.
Notably, the input device of FIG. 11a, as describe above, can be
configured to operate jointly as an input device and a display
screen. Alternatively, input means can be provided on another
portion of large LCD pad 1700. Furthermore, computer components,
such as storage and processor means can be installed in compact
form as provided by state of the art technology.
[0230] With reference to FIG. 19, an enhanced keypad device 1904
according to yet another embodiment of the invention is shown,
having two keypads. Rather than combining multiple configurations
on one keypad, such as with the keypad device of FIG. 13, here two
keypads are provided so that both a numeric configuration and a
character configuration can be employed simultaneously. It is
understood, of course, that keypad device 1904 can be provided with
any two configurations as well.
[0231] With continued reference to FIG. 19, keypad 1902 is shown in
a closed position, illustrating how the keypad device of this
embodiment can fold in half when not in use. According to one
embodiment of this invention, keypad 1904 can be provided with
button controls, such as button control 1908, for added
functionality, as described in the embodiments above. Furthermore,
other features, such as voice detection, lip detection, and hand
detection, can be added to keypad 1904, as described with the
embodiments above.
[0232] With reference to FIG. 20, an enhanced keypad device 2002 is
shown having a removable handset 2004 that includes a display pad,
according to yet another embodiment of this invention. Keypad
device 2002, shown initially in closed position, is configured so
that the handset display pad 2004 can be removed for active use.
Thus, according to one embodiment of the invention, keypad device
2002 can be configured to operate with a phone or other portable
communication device. The keypad portion can be used for input,
such as for dialing a phone number or typing characters. The
display pad in the handset can be used as an output display, to
view input entries or to read data from external sources, such as
the Internet or other individuals. According to one embodiment,
display pad 2004 can be configured to operate interchangeably with
different keypad devices. Thus, individuals can swap display pads
among different keypad devices for convenience, functionality, etc.
It is noted that display pad 2004, according to one embodiment of
this invention, can be provided with a security or bar code device
in order to prevent the display pad from being attached to other
keypad devices without proper authorization. Moreover, the display
pad can have a menu display in order to provide a selection of such
functionality to the user.
[0233] Keypad device 2002 or display screen 2004 can also be
provided with a camera 2006, microphone 2010, and earpiece 2008, in
order to employ the recognition methods described above. According
to one embodiment of the invention, for example, voice recognition
can be employed. Illustratively, one type of voice recognition may
operate while the user is typing characters or words into the
keypad device and simultaneously speaking those words to be
interpreted via voice recognition. The accuracy of the recognition
is improved since the user is also typing all or part of the words
being spoken. According to one embodiment, a space or period key,
or any other symbol, can be added to the keypad to signal the start
of a new word. It is also understood, that the voice recognition
described above can be employed via lip, face, or other forms of
recognition as well. Thus, according to one embodiment, a user can
use lip recognition to pronounce entire words as well.
[0234] With reference to FIG. 21, a handset 2102 having a built in
display screen 2104 is shown, according to one embodiment of the
invention. As shown, handset 2102 may be folded for portability. In
addition, a display pad 2104 is provided on the rear side of the
handset, along with other needed components, such as an earpiece,
camera, and microphone, etc.
[0235] FIG. 22 shows a handset device 2204 similar to that of FIG.
21, but without a display screen. Rather, the keypad device 2202
and display screen of FIG. 20 is shown attached to the handset
device, according to one embodiment of the invention. Thus, the
user can utilize a handset, phone, keypad, and/or display screen in
one device, wherein each of these components can be separated for
individual use.
[0236] FIGS. 23 through 26 illustrates the steps that are employed
to operate a keypad in connection with one embodiment of the
invention. An enhanced keypad is illustrated in FIG. 14b, where a
user can employ to operate all the functions provided by the
system. Thus at step 3300 a user begins the operation on the keypad
by selecting the mode of operation at step 3302. It is noted that
the system is pre-configured to assign one or more user fingers to
a corresponding mode of operation. For example, in one embodiment
of the invention, the system may assign the thumb to the "control"
mode operation. The pinky may be assigned to numeric mode
operation. Any one or all of the middle three fingers may be
assigned to the alphabet mode operation. Therefore in reference
with FIG. 14b, if the pinky finger is pressed, the system assigns
the functionality of the characters that are located on the right
portion of each button. Similarly, if the thumb finger is pressed
the system assigns the functionality of the "control" characters
that are located on the middle bottom portion of each button, and
if any of the middle three fingers are pressed the system assigns
the functionality of the alphabet characters. It is noted that the
invention is not limited in scope to this embodiment and any form
of finger assignment may be employed to differentiate the desired
modes of the operation. For example, the flat portion of a user's
thumb may be assigned to a command configuration. The flat portion
of any other finger may be assigned to an alpha configuration and
the tip portion of any finger may be assigned to a numeric
configuration.
[0237] At step 3304 the system determines which mode of operation
has been selected, based on the finger pressed. If Alphabet mode is
selected the system goes to step 3306 to begin the alphabet
procedure as illustrated in FIG. 24. If the numeric mode is
selected the system goes to step 3308 to begin the numeric
procedure as illustrated in FIG. 25. Finally if the command mode is
selected the system goes to step 3310 to begin the command
procedure as illustrated in FIG. 26.
[0238] As illustrated in FIG. 24, the alphabet procedure begins at
step 3320. At step 3322 the system determines whether the user has
pronounced a letter or a word or whether the user has moved his/her
lips or other indicating signals, such as facial expression that
indicate a function. In the alphabet mode the system for example
may receive voice signals of the user pronouncing each letter of
alphabet that needs to be typed. For example with reference to FIG.
14, when the system recognizes one of the alphabets pronounced for
example "A" the system goes to step 3324 to determine which button
is simultaneously pressed. If for example button 1406 is pressed
the system at step 3330 selects the corresponding character "A"
based on the combination of voice pronouncement of "A" and pressing
of button 1406. The combination of voice and finger pressing
alleviates the need to press for example button 1405 many times
until the desired letter is typed as is currently done.
[0239] If the voice or lip indication at step 3322 is not a
pronouncement of an alphabet but a predefined command, such as "UP"
or "DOWN" the system assigns the character that is located on the
upper or lower portion of the button. For example, if the user
pronounces "UP" in combination with button 1455 in FIG. 14b, at
step 3332 the system selects the corresponding "?" symbol. If
however, the system does not recognize a sound or does not hear a
corresponding sound it goes to step 3340 and returns to step
3300.
[0240] At step 3322, if the system does not hear a sound or
recognize the movement of the lip or other facial expression, but a
button is pressed by the user, the system goes to step 3334 and
selects a corresponding default character symbol or function. For
example, with reference to FIG. 14b, if button 1455 is pressed
without pronouncing a sound or movement of lips or other facial
expression, the system selects the TAB function as the default
function. At step 3336 the user by looking at the display window
determines if the desired character/s have been selected. If not,
the user presses a back space command at step 3338 and the system
goes back to step 3300 to begin the operation.
[0241] If the numeric mode has been selected by the user, the
system goes to step 3350 as illustrated in FIG. 25. Again, at step
3352 the system determines whether the user has pronounced a
predefined word such as "UP" or "DOWN" or a not predefined word),
or whether the user has moved his/her lips or other facial
expression indicating a predefined or not predefined word. If so,
the system goes to step 3354 to determine which predefined word as
been pronounced in combination with a pressed button.
[0242] For example, if button 1454 is pressed in combination with
the utterance of the word "UP" the system at step 3356 selects the
corresponding "%" sign. If however, the system does not recognize a
sound or does not hear a predefined sound it goes to step 3364 and
returns to step 3300. If on the other hand, no word is uttered the
system goes to step 3358 and the default character is selected. For
example numeral "2" in FIG. 14b, in response to pressing of button
1454. In the event of any error of input, the system goes to step
3362 and performs the same functions as discussed with reference
with FIG. 24.
[0243] Finally, if the user selects a command procedure the system
goes to step 3370, and at step 3372 detects whether the user has
uttered a word or moved his/her lips or other facial indication
indicating a predefined signal, such as uttering the word "UP" or
"DOWN," or a not predefined word, as described previously. The
system at step 3376 in response to the combination of the uttered
predefined word and pressing a button selects a corresponding
command or function. If however, the system does not recognize a
sound or does not hear a predefined word it goes to step 3380 and
returns to step 3300. If no word is uttered or no lip or facial
expression movement has been recognized, the system goes to step
3378 and selects a default "command". The system then exits at step
3380 and goes back to step 3300 for the next action by the
user.
[0244] Thus, while there have been shown and described and pointed
out fundamental novel features of the invention as applied to
alternative embodiments thereof, it will be understood that various
omissions and substitutions and changes in the form and details of
the disclosed invention may be made by those skilled in the art
without departing from the spirit of the invention. It is the
intention, therefore, to be limited only as indicated by the scope
of the claims appended hereto. It is to be understood that the
drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but that they are
merely conceptual in nature.
* * * * *