Method and apparatus for providing context menus on a pen-based device
First Claim
1. A method of generating a user interface on a stylus-based computing device having a display and a stylus for providing input through the display, the method comprising:
- displaying a list of entries to the user;
receiving input from the user;
displaying a full record for a displayed entry if the input is a single tap on the entry;
if the input is over an entry, determining if the input forms a context menu gesture by determining if the stylus remains in a context area over a first time period;
if the input is away from an entry, determining if the input forms a context menu gesture by determining if the stylus remains in a second contact area over a second time period, the second time period being different than the first time period; and
displaying a context menu if the input forms a context menu gesture.
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Accused Products
Abstract
The present invention provides a user interface for a pen-based device that allows users to activate the full “card” for an entry using a single tap while also giving the user the ability to reach a menu of context dependent commands using a simple gesture. In particular, the present invention recognizes certain stylus and/or button inputs as context menu gestures. When these gestures are made, a context menu appears. The user is then able to select a command in the context menu that is to be performed. The present invention also allows a user to open context menus while only using one hand to operate and hold the device.
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Citations
11 Claims
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1. A method of generating a user interface on a stylus-based computing device having a display and a stylus for providing input through the display, the method comprising:
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displaying a list of entries to the user;
receiving input from the user;
displaying a full record for a displayed entry if the input is a single tap on the entry;
if the input is over an entry, determining if the input forms a context menu gesture by determining if the stylus remains in a context area over a first time period;
if the input is away from an entry, determining if the input forms a context menu gesture by determining if the stylus remains in a second contact area over a second time period, the second time period being different than the first time period; and
displaying a context menu if the input forms a context menu gesture. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
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7. A computer-readable medium for a hand-held device, the medium having computer-executable instructions for performing steps comprising:
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designating a first set of gesture parameters for a first location on a display, the first set of gesture parameters defining a contact time period over which a stylus must remain within a contact area in order to be considered a context menu gesture at the first location;
designating a second set of gesture parameters for a second location on a display, the second set of gesture parameters defining a second contact time period over which a stylus must remain within a second contact area in order to be considered a context menu gesture at the second location, the second contact time period being different from the first contact time period;
receiving user input relating to the first location on the screen; and
if the user input is within the first set of gesture parameters, displaying a context menu for the first location. - View Dependent Claims (8, 9, 10, 11)
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Specification