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Use of context to simplify two-dimensional computer input

  • US 4,476,462 A
  • Filed: 11/16/1981
  • Issued: 10/09/1984
  • Est. Priority Date: 11/16/1981
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A computer-operated method for minimizing the number of keyboard key strokes required at a data entry keyboard to display two-dimensional figures at a display controlled by said computer, which display is sub-divided into multiple two-dimensionally arrayed grid locations, said figures being made up of plural individual segments to be entered from said keyboard and displayed in individual display grid locations, some of said segments taking the form of alphanumeric characters having corresponding keys at said keyboard, others of said segments taking the form of directional symbols having forward and rearward ends and which, when displayed, link displayed alphanumeric characters and extend in respective horizontal, vertical and diagonal directions on said display, said method comprising the steps of:

  • (a) entering into the computer digital signals representing individual figure segments actuated in succession at said keyboard;

    (b) storing within said computer a stored array of entered characters with locations corresponding to respective grid locations in said display;

    (c) establishing a movable cursor grid location at said display;

    (d) examining each segment entered into said computer to determine the form of the entered segment;

    (e) in response to the entry of a display control character into said computer, effecting a corresponding display control function and moving the cursor grid location as prescribed by said corresponding control function;

    (f) examining in said computer the contents of the present cursor grid location and(1) in response to the presence of a blank in the present cursor grid location and to entry into said computer of a figure segment corresponding to an alphanumeric character to be displayed, displaying said character under computer control at the present cursor grid location;

    (2) in response to the presence of a blank in the present cursor grid location and to entry into said computer of a component which corresponds to a directional symbol;

    automatically displaying a prescribed figure segment, other than the entered segment, at the present cursor grid location under control of the computer;

    moving the cursor grid location under computer control to a new grid location one space in the direction of the directional symbol represented by the entered figure segment; and

    displaying the directional symbol represented by the entered figure segment at the new cursor grid location.

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