Showing papers on "Stylus published in 2001"

User interface for handheld communication device

Abstract: A user interface includes a main screen segregated into various screen areas. At least one of the screen areas is devoted to a system application for displaying status icons, and another of the screen areas is devoted to an interface page which may or may not link to other interface pages which are used for displaying current or recent application information for respective user applications, which user applications may be accessed through interaction with the interface page. The application information may be application status information, recent communication messages (such as e-mail messages, SMS messages, or instant messaging messages) and/or one or more upcoming events or to do items for a user. The user interaction may occur through selection with a pointing device such as a stylus, a fingertip stylus, a finger, or one or more buttons, or even through voice commands. The user interface may also include an area reserved for displaying advertisements.

Graphical user interface system for a thermal comfort controller

Abstract: A graphical user interface system for a thermal comfort controller. The user interface system has a central processing unit coupled to a memory and a touch sensitive display unit. The memory stores a temperature schedule data structure and perhaps a temperature history data structure. The temperature schedule data structure is made up of at least one set-point. The temperature history data structure is made up of at least one Actual-Temperature-Point. The display presents the set-points and/or the Actual-Temperature-Points. One representation of the display is a graphical step-function. The user uses a finger or stylus to program the set-points by pointing and dragging a portion of the step-function.

Single gesture map navigation graphical user interface for a personal digital assistant

Abstract: An application on a personal digital assistant (PDA) displays a map. A graphical user interface permits the application to receive single gesture inputs of a stylus. If the single gesture input comprises a drag of the stylus a minimum distance, the map is panned such that the map is shifted to a new center view. The displayed map may contain one or more map objects. If the input comprises a single tap on a specific map object, the map object under the tap may be selected and highlighted. Further, a ToolTip for the map object may be displayed. A further tap of the ToolTip may result in the navigation to a link or URL associated with the map object selected. One or more zoom buttons may also be displayed. If a zoom button is tapped by the user, the map may be displayed in a different level of detail.

Flexibly interfaceable portable computing device

Abstract: A flexibly interfaceable portable computing device includes a display coupled to a processor, which is coupled or selectively coupled to either or both of a keyboard and a recording unit. The display and the keyboard provide a first user interface to the processor. The recording unit is superimposable with a removable markable surface. A stylus allows user marking on the markable surface. The stylus provides a stroke signal and a stroke mark. The recording unit, the markable surface, and the stylus provide a second user interface to the processor. Optionally, the display also contributes to providing the second user interface to the processor. Switching among viewing modes for the display, and synchronization of information between the processor and a processor of the recording unit are also provided. A casing can enfold the display, the keyboard, and the recording unit to form a relatively slim profile. A portable computer system can have a display, a keyboard, and thick components enfolded and/or located within an overall thickness substantially equal to a sum of a first thickness for the display plus a second thickness for the keyboard, to present a slim profile.

Stylus input device utilizing a permanent magnet

Abstract: A stylus that operates utilizing magnetic fields, wherein a permanent magnet is disposed within a passive stylus that is detectable by a plurality of magnetic sensors that remove the magnetic field of the stylus from the earth's relative magnetic field to thereby obtain vectors that are used in a triangulation equation to determine the location of the stylus in two or three dimensions, depending upon the number of magnetic sensors that are used, wherein one set of magnetic sensors can be used as a reference for earth's magnetic field, and wherein each of the magnetic sensors includes a polarizing coil to change direction of sensitivity, a null coil and a flipping coil.

FreeDrawer: a free-form sketching system on the responsive workbench

Abstract: A sketching system for spline-based free-form surfaces on the Responsive Workbench is presented. We propose 3D tools for curve drawing and deformation techniques for curves and surfaces, adapted to the needs of designers. The user directly draws curves in the virtual environment, using a tracked stylus as an input device. A curve network can be formed, describing the skeleton of a virtual model. The non-dominant hand positions and orients the model while the dominant hand uses the editing tools. The curves and the resulting skinning surfaces can interactively be deformed.

Structure and method for controlling a host computer using a remote hand-held interface device

Abstract: A mobile interface device receiving input from a stylus is provided to remotely control application programs running on a host computer. Such an interface device provides convenient access to any resource of the host computer, including, for example, a sharable database. An embodiment of such an interface device includes a pen-based graphical interface which communicates with an operating system on the host computer. In that embodiment, the operating system on the host computer has handwriting recognition capability.

Identity authentication device

Abstract: An identity authentication device is stylus-shaped. A processor is disposed within the device. The stylus-shaped device includes a scanner-type device component for capturing within the processor memory a written signature generated by the stylus while the stylus is writing upon a surface. A fingerprint sensor is disposed within the grip of the stylus. The fingerprint sensor enables the capture of a digital signature of the writer at the same time that the written signature of the writer is captured. Once the identity of the writer has been authenticated by comparison against a reference print, the signature of the writer irrefutable. The device serves the same general purpose and can be used in lieu of a signature pad. The device is either attached to a surface or is portable and wireless.

Compact scanner module mountable to pointing instrument

Abstract: Method and apparatus for scanning items with a compact scanner which is mountable onto and/or integral with a pointing instrument. The scanner module may be equipped with an aiming beam for additional help in directing the scan line toward the object to be read. The pointing instrument may be a pen or pencil or alternately a pen-based computer stylus for use with an integrated data terminal module operably connected to the scanner module. Security for preventing separation of the module may be provided by a wireless link.

Simulating gestures of a pointing device using a stylus and providing feedback thereto

Abstract: A method and apparatus for simulating at least one gesture of a pointing device such as a mouse. A left click, right click, left drag, right drag, and/or mouse movement may be simulated using a stylus in conjunction with a touch-sensitive display surface. For example, a computer having the display surface may detect whether a stylus is being held down on a touch-sensitive display surface for at least a threshold amount of time. The computer may further detect whether the stylus is then removed from the touch-sensitive display surface after at least the threshold amount of time. Responsive to the stylus being removed, the computer may generate at least one event representing a right mouse button being pressed.

Method for a high-speed writing system and high-speed writing device

Abstract: The invention relates to a high-speed writing system and to a high-speed writing device comprising a particular menu selection for inputting text using a stylus and a touchscreen. This type of text inputting system is suitable for desktops, laptops, palmtops, mobile telephones (SMS and WAP), clocks and other electronic devices. A considerably higher degree of writing efficiency can be achieved with little practice, compared to the QWERTY keyboard. A keyboard featuring all of the consonants of the alphabet appears on the monitor in addition to a vowel key which is distinguished by its location and its function. All of the elements of the writing process that define the method are made possible by stylus movements such as the selection of a key or leading in one of eight stylus directions, and by combinations of these stylus movements. The high-speed writing devices described are all characterised by a small, ergonomically advantageously positioned inputting field, making all of the keys accessible with a single touch of the hand for inputting text.

Adjustable finger stylus

Abstract: An adjustable and economical finger stylus useful in operating a touch sensitive screen and for entering data in, e.g., a personal data assistant (PDA). The adjustable elements of the finger stylus provide for rapid, convenient and significant adjustability while comfortably securing the stylus to the finger during use. Once sized, the stylus can readily be slipped on and off the user's finger as needed.

Optical position determination on any surface

Abstract: The present invention proposes the use of a surface or writing surface such as paper and a moveable element such as a pen or a stylus. The stylus comprises an input means such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) or digital camera, a microcomputer, memory, power supply, and a communications device, whereby the digital camera scans the surface for position-related information to determine the position and/or movement of the stylus relative to the surface. The path of stylus is determined by detecting a sequence of position-related information. An output signal from the digital camera or array of light sensitive elements is sent to a computer or processor and finally output to the user. The output can be in various forms including an image on a computer display or a computer printout. When writing on the surface, handwriting recognition software can be used to convert the handwritten text into a “keyboard-typed” representation.

Pop-up menu system

Abstract: An operator interface is disclosed for a computer system having a relatively small display screen such as a PDA or pocket PC. The interface is adapted to replace the function of a menu bar to free up additional display space on the display screen normally dedicated to the menu bar. The operator interface includes a menu system that is normally hidden from view and is invoked on the display means in response to an action initiated by the operator, such as pressing a stylus, against the display screen or clicking and holding a button associated with a pointing device such as a mouse or trackball.

Computer painting system with passive paint brush stylus

Abstract: A computer painting system is provided for a graphic computer system that has at least one touch screen apparatus and at least one display. A stylus having a tip formed of a solid piece of a resiliently compliant non-conductive material is used to apply variable pressure on the surface of the touch screen apparatus. Software executing on the computer system interprets the variable pressure applied to the surface of the touch screen apparatus and generates corresponding graphic images on the display. Preferably, the tip of the stylus is formed of a silicone material that allows the tip to easily move across the touch screen apparatus in a way that simulates a conventional painting brush stroke but without leaving a buildup of material on the touch screen apparatus. In one embodiment, the touch screen apparatus and the display are incorporated together in the same device. In another embodiment, the touch screen apparatus is a palette physically separate from the display and operably connected to the computer system.

Method of pre-caching user interaction elements using input device position

Abstract: A method (60) of pre-caching user interaction elements, includes monitoring motion patterns (40) with an electronic input device having a gesture recorder and a writing surface using a three-dimensional position of the recorder with respect to the writing surface, analyzing the monitored motion patterns (42) made while the recorder is off the writing surface to determine if the recorder is approaching a target area at the writing surface (44), the target area having an associated functionality, and triggering the functionality (50)before contact between the recorder and the target area. The steps are repeated continuously. The analyzing step (42) determines if the recorder is moving towards the writing surface, and, if so, a two-dimensional location of the recorder with respect to the plane of the writing surface is determined (46) and a trajectory is defined based upon the location and movement of the recorder off the writing surface. A control area disposed at an endpoint of the trajectory is identified (48) as the target area to be triggered. Alternatively, a plurality of trajectories between the recorder and a control area is defined based upon recorder location and movement off the writing surface and correlated with the actual trajectory. For the trajectory with the highest degree of correlation, a corresponding control area is defined as the target area to be triggered. Triggering of multiple control areas can be simultaneous or sequential. The method can be used with a variety of systems including an inductive stylus and tablet system and a radio frequency stylus and tablet system.

Position detection system

Abstract: A system for detecting a position of a stylus movable on an interactive board includes a position information transmitter and information detection sections. The stylus has the transmitter for transmitting to the detection sections electromagnetic wave signals or light signals, and ultrasonic wave signals. The position is detected based on measurement of direct distances for signal transmission between the stylus and the detection sections. The detected position information is output to a personal computer, image projector, printer, etc. Each detection section has an opening sized so that the ultrasonic waves are advantageously transmitted through the opening and substantially radially from its center to its piezoelectric element.

Methods and systems for increasing the input efficiency of personal digital assistants and other handheld stylus-engagable computing devices

Abstract: Methods and systems for enhancing the input fidelity of personal digital assistants (PDAs), and other handheld stylus-engagable computing devices are described. In some embodiments, this can be done by associating input commands with different user-input activities, including different combinations of user-input activities. By using different combinations of user-input activities to designate particular input commands, a more robust collection of commands can be provided to a user in a manner that is simple, straight-forward and easy to understand.

Method to force-balance capacitive transducers

Abstract: A method to maintain a movable electrode of a variable capacitor in fixed relationship with a stationary electrode by electrostatic force feedback when one capacitor electrode is grounded. The invention exploits the high quiescent capacitance and capacitance-load sensitivity of a variable-area capacitance transducer in combination with the advantage of controlling the flexible electrode with a low voltage compared to transducers with parallel-plate capacitors. The invention can be used to accurately control the position of a surface, stylus, inertial mass, valve, electrical contact, electrical component; or an optical component such as a mirror, lens, grating, filter, or holographic element.

System and method for manipulating an image on a screen

Abstract: A system and method for zooming into or out of an image on a screen, in which the image is displayed on a touch screen, and a user zooms into a portion of the image by placing a stylus at a desired image point on the screen. The system repeatedly enlarges the image about the image point indicated by the stylus until the user moves the stylus off of the screen, so that whilst the stylus is on the screen, the user sees a continuous enlargement about the point of the stylus. If the stylus is dragged across the screen during the zoom, then the center of the zoom changes to follow the stylus. A zoom-out action may occur in a similar manner to the zoom-in action.

Desktop device with adjustable flat screen display

Abstract: A relatively small transportable desktop computer/workstation with a display panel assembly ( 2 ) in combination with a microprocessor or controller ( 44 ) is made display screen position adjustable, in inclination angle, azimuth angle and elevation translation movements. The workstation can have a pen or stylus touch screen input function ( 36 ) added, so that a user or operator can write, draw and sketch directly onto the screen in a natural manner. The workstation can be placed on top of a desk or table providing an ergonomic man-machine interface for information communications between individual users via a communications network. A keyboard ( 7, 42 ), voice/speaker telephone ( 48 ), mouse or trackball input unit ( 46 ), and communications modem ( 42 ) may be added to the workstation. The flat panel display, pen input device and microprocessor can be combined into an assembly, which can be removed from the main body for portable mobile computing operation.

Automatic activation of touch sensitive screen in a hand held computing device

Abstract: Method and system for activating at least one of a display screen and a touch screen, and/or for deactivating a power conservation system for a hand held computing device (PDA, radiotelephone, etc.), when a stylus used for the touch screen is absent from a receptacle that receives the stylus on the device. When the stylus is present in the receptacle, the display screen and/or touch screen are deactivated and/or the power conservation system is activated. When the stylus is absent from the receptacle, but an accumulated time for such absence is greater than a selected time-out value, the system reacts as if the stylus is present in the receptacle. Examples of methods of sensing presence or absence of a stylus in a stylus receptacle are presented.

Assembly and method for the optical-tactile measurement of a structure

Abstract: The invention relates to an assembly for the optical-tactile measurement of the structure of an object (12), using a co-ordinate measuring device (10). Said device comprises a contact stylus (18) with a stylus extension that is elastic at least at its end, said extension ending in a stylus element that probes the object. To measure the structure of an object (12) with a high degree of precision and the required coverage, the optical sensor and the contact stylus are integrated into one unit or form a single entity.

Dual fpd and thin client

Abstract: The invention is essentially a flat panel display, preferably for use with wearable computers, which utilizes a display which is separate from the CPU, which can perform as a static flat panel display when connected to or in communication with the computer, but can also function as a thin client PDA when independent from the computer to which it was originally connected. The device will look and function as a flat panel display and include integral activation means either through stylus, touch panel, integrated pointing device, voice, or other activation means. This activation means will be available whether the device is functioning as a display or as a thin client PDA. The device will be small enough to be worn, carried or otherwise supported by the user, but can be utilized independently as a PDA to perform data input, calendars and scheduling, memo inputting and other thin client functions, and will run a thin client operating system such as Windows ~ CE or Palm ~ OS. The enclosure itself will contain hardware sufficient to support display functions as well as a thin client motherboard. It will also contain either a wired or wireless communication bus for communicating data to the computer from which it was disconnected. Additionally, it will possess a standard or proprietary video input plug for displaying output from the underlying computer.

Methods and apparatus for simulating dental procedures and for training dental students

Abstract: A training system using haptically enhanced simulations of dental procedures to provide the sensorimotor involvement needed for dental training. To provide touch feedback in combination with a realistic visual experience, the system integrates a haptic stylus interface for simulating the movement and feel of the tool-tip with a three-dimensional, stereoscopic display. The haptic stylus enables the dental student to orient and operate simulated dental tools. Working on a virtual model viewed in a stereo display, dental students can use a simulated pick to probe a tooth, or a simulated drill to prepare a tooth for cavity repair. The touch feedback is simulated by representing these dental instruments as force-to-a-point tools which map to haptic simulation procedures executed on a computer workstation that also provides the visual display.

Rendering ink strokes of variable width and angle

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for dynamically rendering digital ink strokes of arbitrary stroke width while a user is drawing the ink strokes. An ink rendering system may receive sampled pen tip positions associated with a stylus or pen on a digitizer. The ink rendering system may further determine pen tip instances having particular shapes, sizes, and/or rotations, and may determine connecting shapes, preferably quadrangles, that connect between the pen tip instances. Smoothing techniques may also be used for existing digital ink.

PenCalc: a novel application of on-line mathematical expression recognition technology

Abstract: Most of the calculator programs found in existing pen-based mobile computing devices, such as personal digital assistants (PDA) and other handheld devices, do not take full advantages of the pen technology offered by these devices. Instead, input of expressions is still done through a virtual keypad shown on the screen, and the stylus (i.e., electronic pen) is simply used as a pointing device. In this paper we propose an intelligent handwriting-based calculator program with which the user can enter expressions simply by writing them on the screen using a stylus. In addition, variables can be defined to store intermediate results for subsequent calculations, as in ordinary algebraic calculations. The proposed software is the result of a novel application of on-line mathematical expression recognition technology which has mostly been used by others only for some mathematical expression editor programs.

System, device, computer program product, and method for representing a plurality of electronic ink data points

Abstract: The present invention provides a system, device, computer program product, and method for representing a plurality of electronic ink data points. According to one embodiment, the system includes a first computing device having a writing stylus, a handwriting capture interface, a processing element and a transmitter. The handwriting capture interface captures a plurality of electronic ink data points based upon a position of the writing stylus, while the processing element is capable of determining a derivative of at least the second order of the electronic ink data points. The transmitter transmits data representative of the high-order derivative of the electronic ink data points. The system also includes a second computing device capable of receiving the data. The second computing device includes a processing element for reconstructing the electronic ink data points based upon the high-order derivative and independent of all but one of the electronic ink data points originally captured.