Method and system for providing modifier key behavior through pen gestures
First Claim
1. In a computing device, a computer-implemented method comprising:
- detecting a first gesture indicative of a first modifier key function, the first gesture being inputted by a pointing device;
sending modifier key down data corresponding to the first modifier key function to an input subsystem that is configured to receive keyboard input; and
in response, changing an operating mode of the computing device such that the first modifier key function is applied to input received subsequent to the first gesture.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Described is a system and method in which pen gestures cause a mode to be entered in which a computing device acts as if a modifier key (e.g., Control, Alt, or Shift) was being pressed. This is accomplished by a pen driver sending a modifier key down to the keyboard and mouse input subsystem. Modifier key behavior is thus provided, including at times when a keyboard is not readily available. While in the modifier key mode, additional gestures can be input, including a gesture that results in the computing device acting as if multiple modifier keys are pressed. Also, while in the mode, visual feedback may be provided to indicate the mode is active. The mode may be exited by sending a corresponding modifier key up, and the exit may be triggered in various ways, including by other gestures, mouse or pen events, and certain keyboard input.
72 Citations
19 Claims
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1. In a computing device, a computer-implemented method comprising:
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detecting a first gesture indicative of a first modifier key function, the first gesture being inputted by a pointing device; sending modifier key down data corresponding to the first modifier key function to an input subsystem that is configured to receive keyboard input; and in response, changing an operating mode of the computing device such that the first modifier key function is applied to input received subsequent to the first gesture. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
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11. A computer storage medium having stored computer-executable instructions, which when executed perform steps, comprising:
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detecting a first gesture indicative of a first modifier key function, the first gesture being inputted by a pointing device; sending modifier key down data corresponding to the first modifier key function to an input subsystem that is configured to receive keyboard input; and in response, changing an operating mode of the computing device such that the first modifier key function is applied to input received subsequent to the first gesture. - View Dependent Claims (12, 13, 14, 15)
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16. In a computing device having a program, a system comprising:
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a processor in communication with an input subsystem that processes keyboard and mouse input; and a memory in communication with the processor and storing executable instruction which when executed by the processor implement a method for providing data to the input subsystem to change an operating mode of the computing device upon detection of a gesture corresponding to a modifier key function, the method comprising; detecting a first gesture indicative of a first modifier key function, the first gesture being inputted by a pointing device; sending modifier key down data corresponding to the first modifier key function to the input subsystem; and in response, changing an operating mode of the computing device such that the first modifier key function is applied to input received subsequent to the first gesture. - View Dependent Claims (17, 18, 19)
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Specification