KR20100081425A - Character input apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: A character input apparatus is provided to solve the inconvenience that one key is repeatedly pressed to input one character by adopting an additional virtual extension keys through 12 keys which is arranged in 4 column X 3 rows. CONSTITUTION: A key arrangement unit(110) includes 12 basic keys, 8 first virtual extension keys, 9 second virtual extension keys. A first key allocation unit(120) allocates English alphabets to 9 basic keys among 12 basic keys, a first extension keys and 9 second extension keys. A key input occurs from the one basic key among 12 basic keys, a first key processor(140) processes the alphabets allocated to the basic keys as the input character.

Description

Character Input Apparatus {Character Input Apparatus}

The present invention relates to a character input device. More particularly, the present invention relates to a character input device that is convenient, convenient and fast for a keyboard composed of 12 keys of 4 rows and 3 columns in a small electronic device such as a mobile phone, a remote controller, and a general telephone.

The character input method currently used in small electronic devices such as mobile phones, remote controllers, and general telephones requires the input of a large number of Korean or English characters using 12 keys provided for numeric input. Nevertheless, there is a problem in that the user cannot input characters conveniently and quickly by not providing a character input method suitable for a small keyboard of four rows and three columns.

English character input in the conventional character input method developed so far is easy to determine the position by assigning a total of 26 alphabets to each key three in order, but it is easy to determine the desired character by inputting the key several times. Since the method of selecting and inputting not only requires too many key operations for inputting alphabetic characters, but also frequently causes a typo when two or more characters arranged on the same key are continuously inputted. do.

In addition, the input of Hangul in the conventional character input method has a inconvenience of having to input too many keys in order to input one vowel due to the feature that the Hangul is composed of a combination of consonants and vowels. The characteristics of the above-described Hangeul may cause a problem that the text input further increases the difficulty of the text input to a poor user.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In order to solve the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a character input method suitable for a keyboard composed of 12 keys of 4 rows and 3 columns in a small electronic device such as a mobile phone, a remote controller, and a general telephone.

Another object of the present invention is to eliminate the inconvenience of having to repeatedly press one key to input one character by introducing 12 keys of 4 rows and 3 columns and additional virtual expansion keys using the same. have.

In addition, another object of the present invention is suitable for 12 keys of 4 rows and 3 columns, so that the user can easily know the position of the letters, alphabet letters of the Hangul alphabet or alphabet letters, convenient and quick character input is possible It's about doing it.

In addition, another object of the present invention is to provide a character input method applicable to all electronic devices having an input device including 12 keys in four rows and three columns, thereby providing a character input method to a user using various types of electronic devices. It is to provide convenient and fast character input.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention arranges 12 primary keys, virtual eight first extension keys, and virtual second second extension keys, wherein the 12 primary keys are arranged in four rows and three columns, A key arranging unit for arranging the first extension key between the primary keys of each column in each row, and arranging the second extension key between the primary keys of each row in each column of the twelve primary keys; A first key allocator for allocating alphabetic characters to nine primary keys of the first to third rows, the eight first extended keys, and the nine second extended keys, respectively, among the twelve primary keys; And when a key input is generated from one of the 12 primary keys, an English letter assigned to the one of the primary keys is treated as an input character, and two consecutive keys from two neighboring primary keys among the 12 primary keys are input. When a key input occurs, the difference between the input time for the two consecutive key inputs and a preset threshold value are compared, and based on the result of the comparison, the first arrangement arranged between the two neighboring primary keys. It provides a character input device comprising a first key processing unit for processing an English character assigned to the first expansion key or the second expansion key as input characters.

In addition, the present invention arranges 12 primary keys, virtual eight first extended keys, and virtual nine second extended keys, wherein the twelve primary keys are arranged in four rows and three columns, and each row of each column A key arrangement unit for arranging the first extension key between primary keys and arranging the second extension key for each primary key of each row in each column of the twelve primary keys; A first key allocator for allocating a Hangul alphabet to each of the nine primary keys 1 to 3, the eight first extended keys and the nine second extended keys among the twelve primary keys; And when a key input is generated from one of the 12 primary keys, the Hangul alphabet assigned to the one of the primary keys is treated as an input character, and consecutive from two neighboring primary keys among the 12 primary keys. When two key inputs occur, the difference between the input time for the two consecutive key inputs and a preset threshold value are compared, and based on the result of the comparison, the two key inputs are arranged between the two neighboring primary keys. And a first key processing unit for processing the alphabet of the Hangul assigned to the first extended key or the second extended key as an input character, wherein the first key allocating unit is located in the first and second rows in columns 1 and 2; 6 primary keys; Four first extension keys arranged immediately to the right of the primary key of each column for rows 1 to 4; And assigns a basic consonant of Korean to 14 of 16 keys including 6 second extension keys arranged directly below each of the 6 primary keys in columns 1 and 2 for rows 1 to 3, respectively. Three primary keys in three columns except for; Four first extension keys arranged immediately to the left of each of the four primary keys in three rows; And assigning a basic vowel in Korean to six of ten keys including three second extension keys arranged directly below each of three primary keys in three columns except for four rows. do.

Also, the present invention arranges 12 primary keys, virtual eight first extension keys, and virtual nine second extension keys, wherein the 12 primary keys are arranged in four rows and three columns, each of four rows and three columns. A key arranging unit for arranging the first extension key for each primary key of each column in a row, and arranging the second extension key for each primary key of each row in each column of four rows and three columns; A first key allocating unit for allocating characters to the nine primary keys of the first to third rows, the eight first extended keys, and the nine second extended keys, respectively, from among the twelve primary keys; A second key allocating unit for allocating a space bar function, a conversion key function, a back space function, and a special character function to three basic keys on four lines among the 12 basic keys; When a key input is generated from one of the nine primary keys, the character assigned to the one primary key is treated as an input character, and two consecutive keys from two neighboring primary keys among the 12 primary keys are input. When an input occurs, the first threshold value is arranged between the two neighboring primary keys based on a result of the comparison by comparing a difference between the input time for the two consecutive key inputs and a preset threshold value. A first key processing unit for processing an extension key or a character assigned to the second extension key as an input character; And a second key processing unit that performs one of the space bar function, the conversion key function, the back space function, and the special character function when a key input is generated from one of the three basic keys. A character input device is provided.

As described above, according to the present invention, there is an effect of providing a character input method suitable for a keyboard composed of 12 keys of 4 rows and 3 columns in a small electronic device such as a mobile phone, a remote controller, or a general telephone.

In addition, according to the present invention, there is an effect of eliminating the inconvenience of having to repeatedly press one key to input one character by introducing 12 keys of 4 rows and 3 columns and additional virtual expansion keys using the same. .

In addition, according to the present invention, it is suitable for 12 keys of 4 rows and 3 columns, and the effect of enabling convenient and rapid character input by arranging alphabets of Korean alphabets or English alphabets so that the user is familiar with the position of the characters. There is.

In addition, according to the present invention, by providing a character input method that can be applied to all electronic devices having an input device including 12 keys in four rows and three columns, the uniformity of the character input method to the user using a variety of electronic devices By providing a convenient and quick character input is effective.

The character input device according to the present invention, when a button having a predetermined shape and separated by an input device such as a keypad, keyboard, or touch screen keyboard is pressed or touched by a user's finger or a stylus fan or the like, the code is assigned a code. Generate a phoneme code and / or a character code, and perform character input processing to display characters on the display based on the set font information.

In the present specification, the above-mentioned button is referred to as a "key", and the generated code is referred to as a "scan code", and the character input device detects an action such as a touch or a press to cause such a scan code, or a generated scan code. We call this "keystroke".

An input device such as a keypad, keyboard, or touch screen keyboard provided in the character input device of the present invention is based on a configuration including 12 basic keys of 4 rows and 3 columns. An input device such as a keypad, keyboard, or touch screen keyboard including 12 basic keys in four rows and three columns is provided in a small electronic device such as a mobile phone, a telephone, a remote controller, a calculator, a mobile terminal (eg, PDA, PMP), and a keyboard. It may also be equipped with a computer using a number keyboard.

The character input device according to the present invention uses a virtual “extension key” (second key) by using two neighboring primary keys in four basic rows and three basic keys included in an input device such as a keypad, keyboard, or touch screen keyboard. By arranging 1 expansion key and 2nd expansion key, conventionally, one key is eliminated by the inconvenience of inputting one character through three consecutive presses or touches, and one press, touch, or more. It is possible to input a single character (English letters, Hangul, special characters, etc.) through two presses or touches, enabling rapid character input.

In the present invention, the "12 primary keys in 4 rows and 3 columns" is a key (K :) visible to the user, while the "EK (Extended Key)" is not visible to the user and is located between two neighboring primary keys. Means an imaginary key, which has a "first extended key" between the primary key of each column in each row and a "second extended key" between the primary key of each row in each column.

In addition, the character input apparatus according to the present invention has a structure in which alphabets and Korean alphabets are assigned to arranged keys (12 basic keys and extended keys in 4 rows and 3 columns) according to the character characteristics of English characters and Korean characters. And Hangul input can be made more convenient and faster.

However, the character input device of the present invention has been exemplarily described that the alphabets of the Korean alphabet or the English alphabet are assigned to a plurality of keys including 12 primary keys in 4 rows and 3 columns and extended keys therebetween. If the key structure includes three basic columns of three columns and an expansion key therebetween, in addition to Korean and English characters, basic characters of each character such as Japanese and German characters may be assigned to perform a character input function.

Some embodiments of the character input device and the key arrangement structure of the present invention described above will be described in detail with reference to the exemplary drawings. In adding reference numerals to the components of each drawing, it should be noted that the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components as much as possible even though they are shown in different drawings. In the following description of the present invention, a detailed description of known functions and configurations incorporated herein will be omitted when it may make the subject matter of the present invention rather unclear.

In addition, in describing the component of this invention, terms, such as 1st, 2nd, A, B, (a), (b), can be used. These terms are only for distinguishing the components from other components, and the nature, order or order of the components are not limited by the terms. If a component is described as being "connected", "coupled" or "connected" to another component, that component may be directly connected to or connected to that other component, but there may be another configuration between each component. It is to be understood that the elements may be "connected", "coupled" or "connected".

1 is a block diagram of a character input device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Description of the character input apparatus 100 referring to FIG. 1 is made with reference to FIG. 2 which is an exemplary view of a key arrangement.

As shown in FIG. 1, the character input apparatus 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention arranges 12 primary keys and virtual extension keys (first extension key and second expansion key) in four rows and three columns. A key arrangement unit 110; A first key allocator 120 and a second key allocator 130 for allocating letters and functions to the arranged keys; And a first key processor 140 and a second key processor 150 for processing a character or a function assigned to a corresponding key when a key input occurs.

Referring to FIG. 2, which shows a key arrangement according to an embodiment of the present invention, the key arrangement unit 110 may include twelve primary keys, eight virtual first extension keys, and nine virtual second extension keys. "12 primary keys" arranged in four rows and three columns, and in each row of four rows and three columns, "first extension key" is arranged between the primary keys of each column, and in each column of four rows and three columns, Arrange the "second extension key" between the primary keys.

The first key allocating unit 120 includes nine primary keys of one to three rows among the twelve primary keys arranged in four rows and three columns, and eight first expansion keys and nine primary keys arranged between the primary keys. Assign characters to the second extension key, respectively.

The second key allocating unit 130 assigns a space bar function, a conversion key function, a back space function, and a special character function to three basic keys of four rows among the twelve basic keys arranged in four rows and three columns.

The first key processing unit 140, when a key input is generated from one primary key among the nine primary keys 1 to 3 included in the 12 primary keys arranged in four rows and three columns, the first key processing unit 140 Treat the assigned character as input character.

In addition, when two consecutive key inputs occur from two neighboring primary keys among the 12 primary keys arranged in four rows and three columns, the first key processing unit 140 inputs an input time for the two consecutive key inputs. Compares the difference value and the predetermined threshold value of, and based on the result of the comparison, processes the character assigned to the first extended key or the second extended key arranged between the corresponding two neighboring primary keys as input characters. do. That is, the first extended key and the second extended key are virtual keys that are keyed by successive key inputs of the basic keys on the left and right sides or the basic keys on the upper and lower sides thereof.

If a key input is generated from one of the three primary keys in four rows among the twelve primary keys arranged in four rows and three columns, the second key processing unit 150 assigns a space bar function to the corresponding primary key. It performs one of the following functions:, conversion key function, back space function, and special character function.

The letter assigned to each key by the first key assignment unit 120 includes at least one of an alphabet of an English alphabet, a Korean alphabet of a Korean alphabet, a special character, and the like.

As described above, the first key processing unit 140 recognizes not only the basic key but also the key input for the extension key, and performs key processing for the key input. The operation of the first key processor 140 will be described in detail below.

The first key processing unit 140, when two consecutive key inputs are generated from two neighboring primary keys among the 12 primary keys arranged in four rows and three columns, the difference value of the input time of the two consecutive key inputs. As shown in FIG. 2, the detected difference value is compared with a preset threshold value and the key input is processed according to the comparison result.

If the identified difference value is less than or equal to the threshold value, the first key processing unit 140 processes a character assigned to the first extended key or the second extended key arranged between two neighboring primary keys as an input character. If the identified difference exceeds the threshold, two consecutive keystrokes are processed separately.

The first key processing unit 140 performs key processing based on a difference between input times of two consecutive key inputs generated from two neighboring basic keys, which may be applied to all character input modes. In particular, it can be applied well to English input.

In addition to the difference in the input time referred to for key processing in the above-described key processing method, the possibility of combining the characters corresponding to two consecutive key inputs generated is further determined, and the determination result is referred to together with the difference value to determine the key. You can do it. The key processing further using the determination result of the combination possibility of the characters is a key processing method suitable for the characteristics of the Hangul composed of consonants and vowels. This will be described in detail below.

The first key processing unit 140, when two consecutive key inputs are generated from two neighboring primary keys among the 12 primary keys arranged in four rows and three columns, the difference value of the input time of two consecutive key inputs that occur. And determine the possibility of combining two consecutive key inputs. Here, when determining the possibility of combining two consecutive key inputs, for example, when a character corresponding to two consecutive key inputs is a consonant of the Korean alphabet and a consonant which cannot be combined with each other (for example, Possibility to combine two consecutive keystrokes in the case of two keystrokes for the consonant and consonants), and for vowels that cannot be combined with Hangul (for example, two keystrokes for ㅏ and ㅓ) It is judged that there is no, and it is determined that there is a possibility of combination. Such determination may be, for example, Korean characteristic information or Korean spelling.

The first key processing unit 140 performs key processing with reference to both the identified difference value and the determined combination possibility. If the difference value of the input time of two consecutive key inputs occurred is less than or equal to a threshold value and is continuous 2 If two key inputs are combinable, the characters allocated to the first extended key or the second extended key arranged between two neighboring primary keys are treated as input characters, even if the difference is less than or equal to the threshold. If two consecutive key inputs are non-combinable key inputs or if the difference value exceeds a threshold, two consecutive key inputs are processed separately.

Meanwhile, the above-described second key allocating unit 130 assigns a space bar function, a conversion key function, a back space function, and a special character function to three basic keys of four rows among 12 basic keys arranged in four rows and three columns. As an example of the assignment, a space bar function may be assigned to a primary key in four rows and one column, and a conversion key function and a backspace function may be assigned to a primary key in four rows and two columns. In addition, the primary key in the fourth row and the third column is assigned a special character (for example, the most frequently used special character when entering a character) to input a predetermined special character for one key input. For continuous key input, a special character function for controlling the special character input mode can be assigned according to the number of key inputs. With respect to the first key input of the primary key of the fourth row and the third column, the predetermined special character assigned to the primary key of the fourth row and the third column may be, for example, a special character having a high frequency of use when entering a character, and a special frequency having a high frequency of use. The character may be something like a period (.).

After the functions are assigned to three primary keys in four rows by the second key allocator 130, when a key input occurs through these primary keys, the corresponding function may be performed, which is the second key processor 150. Is performed by

More specifically, the second key processing unit 150, when a key input of "No. 1" is generated from the primary key of the four rows and two columns to which the conversion key function is assigned, the second key processing unit 150 is divided into four rows and two columns based on the current input mode. This function converts the character corresponding to the key input before the primary key is input into another predefined character. Here, the current input mode may be one of a Korean input mode and an English input mode.

When the current input mode is the English input mode, the second key processing unit 150 generates a key before the primary key of the fourth row and the second column is input when the first key input occurs from the primary key of the fourth row and the second column to which the conversion key function is assigned. This function converts the English letter corresponding to the input to the lowercase letter or the uppercase letter.

When the current input mode is the Hangul input mode, the second key processing unit 150 generates a key before the primary key of the fourth row and the second column is input when the first key input occurs from the primary key of the second row of the fourth row to which the conversion key function is assigned. If the Hangul character corresponding to the input is a vowel, it is converted to the l leading vowel (eg ㅑ, ㅕ, ㅛ, ㅠ, ㅒ, ㅖ) that corresponds to the vowel, and corresponds to the key input before the primary key of 4 rows and 2 columns is entered. If the Hangul character is a consonant, it performs a conversion key function that converts the consonant (or 'sound') into a consonant (eg, ㄲ, ㄸ, ㅃ, ㅆ, ㅉ).

On the other hand, the second key processing unit 150 may perform a back space function to delete the previously input character when a continuous "two or more times" key input is generated from the basic keys of the four rows and two columns.

The current input mode mentioned above is one of Korean input mode and English input mode.

In addition, the above-described second key processing unit 150, when a key input of "No. 1" is generated from the primary key of the fourth row and the third column to which the special character function is assigned, the second key processing unit 150 stores the special characters previously assigned to the primary key of the fourth row and the third column. Treat as input character.

In addition, the second key processing unit 150 described above, after activating the special character input mode, if the continuous " number 2 " When a key input is generated from a key other than the basic key of, as shown in the example of the key arrangement of the special characters shown in FIG.

In addition, the above-described second key processing unit 150 inputs a key from one of the four primary keys in a state in which a continuous " number two " When this occurs, the activated special character input mode can be deactivated.

The above-described special character function is similarly applied to the character input device which will be described later with reference to FIGS. 3 and 7.

Character input device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention described above with reference to FIG. 1 is a single electronic device in a mobile phone, a telephone, a remote control, a calculator, a mobile terminal (eg, PDA, PMP, electronic dictionary, etc.) and a computer The module may be a module or a device capable of inputting a character included in the electronic device. In particular, the character input device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is more suitable for an electronic device having a small input device such as a small keyboard or a keypad.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the character input apparatus 100 described above as an example may be a device that supports only an English input mode or a device that supports only a Korean input mode or an English input mode and a Korean input. It may be a device that supports all modes.

Therefore, hereinafter, another embodiment of the character input apparatus for supporting the English input mode will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 3 to 6, and the character for supporting the Korean input mode with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. Another embodiment of the input device will be described in more detail.

3 is a block diagram of a character input device 300 for inputting an English letter according to another embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, a description of the character input device 300 will be described with reference to an exemplary view of the key arrangement illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 6.

Referring to FIG. 3, the character input apparatus 300 for inputting an English letter according to another embodiment of the present invention uses 12 basic keys and virtual extension keys (first extension key and second expansion key) in four rows and three columns. A key arranging unit 310 for arranging; A first key allocator 320 and a second key allocator 330 for allocating alphabets and functions to the arranged keys; And a first key processor 340 and a second key processor 350 for processing an input or a function of an English letter assigned to a corresponding key when a key input occurs.

Referring to FIG. 4, the key arranging unit 310 arranges twelve primary keys, eight virtual first extension keys, and nine virtual second extension keys, and the twelve primary keys are arranged in four rows and three columns. The first extension key is arranged between the primary keys of each column in each row, and the second extension key is arranged between the primary keys of each row in each column of the twelve primary keys.

The first key allocator 320 assigns alphabet letters to nine primary keys, one to three rows, eight first extended keys, and nine second extended keys, respectively, from among the 12 primary keys in four rows and three columns.

When a key input is generated from one primary key among the 12 primary keys in four rows and three columns, the first key processing unit 340 processes the English letter assigned to the primary key as an input character.

When two consecutive key inputs are generated from two neighboring primary keys among the 12 primary keys, the first key processing unit 340 determines the difference between the input time and the preset threshold value for the two consecutive key inputs. A comparison is made, and based on the result of the comparison, an English character assigned to the first extended key or the second extended key arranged between two neighboring primary keys is treated as an input character.

As shown in FIG. 3, the character input apparatus 300 according to another embodiment of the present invention may include a space bar function on three basic keys of four rows, among twelve basic keys of four rows and three columns. A second key allocating unit 330 for allocating a conversion key function, a back space function, and a special character function; And a second key processing unit 350 which performs one of a space bar function, a conversion key function, a back space function, and a special character function when a key input is generated from one of the three basic keys in four rows. It may be included as.

In the present specification, referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, a key to which a conversion key function is assigned is indicated by a double arrow (↔), and a key to which a special character function is assigned is a period (. And a period (.).

The second key processing unit 350 converts the previously inputted English letter to uppercase or lowercase when a key input of "1" occurs from the primary key to which the conversion key function is assigned by the second key assignment unit 330. When the key function is performed and the second key assignment unit 330 consecutively inputs two or more key inputs from the basic key to which the conversion key function is assigned, the back space function of deleting the previously inputted alphabetic characters one by one is performed. Can be done.

In addition, the space bar function, the conversion key function, the back space function, and the special character function performed by the second key processing unit 350 are the same as those of the function performed in the second key processing unit 50 described above with reference to FIG. 1. .

The key assignment for the above-described alphabetic characters may be made in the same manner as the three exemplary diagrams shown in FIGS. 4, 5, and 6. However, the three exemplary views shown in FIGS. 4 to 6 include the first extended key and the second extended key in the primary key of the fourth row and the third column, so that the alphabet can be processed through the extended key. The key allocation method for allocating the alphabet is not limited to the example of FIGS. 4 to 6, but is assigned to a key including a primary key, a first extended key, and a second extended key in four rows and three columns. It can be implemented in several ways.

First, referring to FIG. 4, which is a first exemplary diagram of key assignment for inputting an English letter according to another embodiment of the present invention, the first key assignment unit 320 includes three primary keys and two primary keys in each column in one row. Assign "A, B, C, D, and E" to the first extension key, respectively, and add "F, G, H, I, and J" to the three primary keys and two first extension keys in each column in row 2. Assign each to three primary keys and two first extended keys of each column in row 3, and assign each of "K, L, M, N, and O" to three second arrays arranged directly below row 1. Assigns "P, Q and R" to the extension keys, respectively, and assigns "S, T and U" to the three second extension keys arranged just below row 2, respectively, and "V, W, and X" are respectively assigned to three second extension keys, and "Y and Z" may be assigned to two first extension keys arranged between three primary keys in four rows, respectively.

Next, referring to FIG. 5, which is a second exemplary diagram of key assignment for inputting an English letter according to another embodiment of the present invention, in claim 1, the first key assignment unit 320 is configured to display each column in one row. Assign "A, B, C, D, and E" to the three primary keys and the two first extension keys, respectively, and "F, G, and H" to the three second extension keys arranged directly under one row. Assigns "I, J, K, L and M" to each of the three primary keys and the two first extension keys of each column in row 2, and the three second arrays arranged just below row 2. Assign "N, O, and P" to the extension keys, respectively. In row 3, assign "Q, R, S, T, and U" to the three primary keys in each column and the two first extension keys, respectively. Assign "V, W, and X" to three second extension keys arranged directly below, respectively, and "Y and Z" to the two first extension keys arranged between three primary keys in four rows, respectively. You can also assign.

Next, referring to FIG. 6, which is a third exemplary diagram of key assignment for inputting an English letter according to another embodiment of the present invention, the first key assignment unit 320 may be arranged in each row in a direction of one to three rows. Each of the 24 alphabetic characters in the sequence of three primary keys in each column, three second expansion keys directly below each of the three primary keys in each column, and two first expansion keys between the three primary keys in each column. The remaining two alphabets may be allocated to two first extension keys arranged between three primary keys in four rows, respectively.

The 12 primary keys in 4 rows and 3 columns mentioned above may be marked or assigned by default the numbers 0-9, the asterisk (*) and the pound sign (#).

The character input device 300 according to another embodiment of the present invention described above with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4 may be a mobile phone, a telephone, a remote controller, a calculator, a mobile terminal (eg, PDA, PMP, electronic dictionary, etc.) and a computer (keyboard). Or a module capable of inputting a character included in the electronic device, or a device. In particular, the character input device 300 according to another embodiment of the present invention is more suitable for an electronic device having a small input device such as a small keyboard or keypad.

7 is a block diagram illustrating a character input device for inputting Korean characters according to another embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, the character input apparatus 700 will be described with reference to the key arrangement illustrated in FIG. 8.

Referring to FIG. 7, the character input apparatus 700 for inputting Korean according to another embodiment of the present invention includes 12 basic keys and virtual extension keys (first extension key and second extension key) in four rows and three columns. A key arrangement unit 710 for arranging; A first key allocator 720 and a second key allocator 730 for allocating the alphabets and functions of Korean characters to the arranged keys; And a first key processor 740 and a second key processor 750 for processing an input or a function of a Hangul character assigned to a corresponding key when a key input occurs.

Referring to FIG. 8 exemplarily illustrating a key arrangement and a key assignment, the key arrangement unit 710 may arrange twelve primary keys, eight virtual first extension keys, and nine virtual second extension keys. , The 12 primary keys are arranged in four rows and three columns, in each row the first extension key is arranged between the primary keys of each column, and in each column for the twelve primary keys, the second extension key is between each primary key in each row. Arrange

Referring to FIG. 8, the first key allocating unit 720 includes nine primary keys, eight first extended keys, and nine second extended keys, ranging from one to three rows, among the 12 primary keys in four rows and three columns. Assign each letter to Hangul.

Referring to FIG. 8, when a key input is generated from one primary key among 12 primary keys in four rows and three columns, the first key processing unit 740 processes the Hangul alphabet assigned to the one primary key as an input character. do.

In addition, when two consecutive key inputs are generated from two neighboring primary keys among the 12 primary keys in four rows and three columns, the first key processing unit 740 determines a difference between input times for two consecutive key inputs, and The preset thresholds are compared, and based on the result of the comparison, the Hangul alphabet assigned to the first extended key or the second extended key arranged between two neighboring primary keys is processed as input characters.

As shown in FIG. 7, the character input apparatus 700 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a space bar function and a conversion key on three basic keys of four rows, among twelve basic keys of four rows and three columns. A second key allocating unit 730 for allocating a function, a back space function, and a special character function; And a second key processing unit 750 which performs one of a space bar function, a conversion key function, a back space function, and a special character function when a key input is generated from one of the three primary keys in four rows. It may include.

The above-described second key processing unit 750, when a key input of "1" occurs from the basic key to which the conversion key function is assigned by the second key allocating unit 730, the consonant (a, c, 경, ,,)) or vowels (ㅏ, 에, ㅗ, ㅐ, ㅔ) or vowels (ㄲ, ㅔ, ㅃ, ㅆ, ㅉ) or | Convert key function to convert to the preceding vowel (ㅑ, ㅕ, ㅛ, ㅠ, ㅒ, ㅖ).

In addition, when the second key processing unit 750 generates two or more consecutive key inputs from the basic key to which the conversion key function is assigned by the second key allocating unit 730, the second key processing unit 750 is based on phonemes or syllables. The back space function to erase previously inputted phonemes or syllables can be performed.

The key assignment of consonants and vowels in Korean by the first key assignment unit 720 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 8.

First, the basic consonant allocation of Hangul will be described as an example. In the present specification, the basic consonants are defined as 14 "a, b, c, d, ㅁ, ㅂ, ㅅ, ㅇ, ㅈ, ㅋ, ,, ㅌ and ㅎ".

Referring to FIG. 8, the first key assignment unit 720 includes six primary keys in columns 1 and 2 for rows 1 to 3; Four first extension keys arranged immediately to the right of the primary key of each column for rows 1 to 4; And a basic consonant of the Korean alphabet to "14" of 16 keys including six second extension keys arranged directly below each of six primary keys in columns 1 and 2 for rows 1 to 3. . In this case, two keys except fourteen keys to which a basic consonant is assigned (two in the example of FIG. 8 and two second extension keys below the primary key to which seven is assigned) cannot be allocated when a collection is to be described later. You can assign a vowel (eg, ㅙ, ㅞ), or assign a function key for input mode switching functions.

As an example, referring to FIG. 8, the first key assignment unit 720 includes six primary keys (numbers 1, 2, 4, 5, 7 and 8) in columns 1 and 2 for rows 1 to 3. (A, c, k, and k) are assigned to four primary keys. Subsequently, the four second extension keys directly below the four primary keys to which "a, c, ㅂ and ㅈ" have been assigned, such as "ㅋ, ㅌ, プ, And g ”respectively.

Also, among the "14" keys to which the basic Korean consonants are assigned, the remaining six keys except for the eight keys to which "a, c, k, k, k, k, k, p, and k" are assigned, " B, d, ㅁ, ㅅ, ㅇ and ㅎ "respectively.

The key assignment method of consonants is based on the assignment of one consonant to one key without assigning a plurality of consonants to one key by the introduction of an extended key. Based on the similarity of consonants, it should be assigned in the order from the upper left to the lower right. In addition, it is a rule to make use of the characteristics of Hangul to be assigned to the left part or the upper part as compared to the vowel. 8 is an exemplary view according to this manner.

8, the primary key of one row and one column; Primary key in row 1 and column 2; And "a", "b", and "c" to the first extension key arranged between the primary key in row 1, column 1, and the primary key in row 1, column 2.

Primary key in two rows and one column; Primary key in two rows and two columns; And " d ", " " and " " are assigned to the first extended key arranged between the primary key in row 2 and column 1 and the primary key in row 2 and column 2, respectively.

Primary key in 3 rows and 1 column; Primary key in three rows and two columns; And " s ", " " and " " for the first extension key arranged between the primary key in row 3 and column 1 and the primary key in row 3 and column 2, respectively.

A second extension key arranged between the primary key in the first row and the first column and the primary key in the second row and the first column; A second extension key arranged between the primary key of the first row and the second column and the primary key of the second row and the second column; A second extension key arranged between the primary key in row 2 and column 1 and the primary key in row 3 and column 1; A second extended key arranged between a primary key of two rows and two columns and a primary key of three rows and two columns; A second extension key arranged between the primary key of the third row and the first column and the primary key of the fourth row and the first column; And "tw", "ct", "v", and "ㅋ" for four second extension keys of the second extension keys arranged between the primary key in row 3 and row 2 and the primary key in row 4 and row 2. .

Assign "ㅎ" to the first extended key arranged between the primary key in row 4, column 1, and the primary key in row 4, column 2.

As described above, a primary key to which a basic consonant is assigned, a first extended key or a second extended key, that is, a key to which "a", "c", "ㅂ", "ㅅ", and "ㅈ" are assigned, By using the primary key (4 key, 2 column primary key) to which the conversion key function is assigned, such as "ㄲ", "ㄸ", "ㅃ", "ㅆ" and "ㅉ" where the same two basic consonants are combined You can enter consonants. In addition, a consonant consonant in which two other basic consonants such as "ㄳ", "ㄻ", "ㅄ", etc. are combined may be input using two keys to which the two basic consonants are assigned.

Next, we look at the assignments to the default collections. In the present specification, the basic vowels of Hangul are defined as six "ㅏ, ㅓ, ㅗ, TT, ㅡ and |".

Referring to FIG. 8, the first key assignment unit 720 may include three primary keys in three columns except four rows; Four first extension keys arranged immediately to the left of each of the four primary keys in three rows; And the basic vowels of the Hangul are assigned to six of the ten keys including three second extension keys arranged directly below each of the three primary keys in the third column except for the fourth row.

As an example, referring to FIG. 8, the first key assignment unit 720 may include three primary keys (three primary keys to which numbers 3, 6, and 9 are assigned) except three rows; And three primary keys in three columns (primary keys with numbers 3, 6, and 9 assigned to them), except for row 4, and three second extension keys arranged directly below "ㅏ, ㅓ, ㅗ, TT, ㅡ and |" You can assign each of the six default collections, including.

Referring to FIG. 8, the first key assignment unit 720 may select one or more of the remaining vowels except for the six basic vowels including “ㅏ, ㅓ, ㅗ, ㅜ, ㅡ and ㅣ” from the six basic vowels and 14. Key consonants can be assigned to the remaining keys except the assigned key. For example, "ㅐ, ㅔ, ㅢ, and ㅝ" can be assigned to the first extended key just to the left of four primary keys in three columns.

The key assignment method of the collection is based on the introduction of an extended key, without assigning a plurality of collections to a single key, and assigning a collection to a single key. Based on the similarity of, it should be assigned in order from the top left to the bottom right. In addition, it is a rule to make use of the characteristics of Hangeul to be assigned to the right part or the lower part of the consonant. 8 is an exemplary view according to this manner.

Referring to FIG. 8, "ㅏ", "ㅗ", and "-" are respectively assigned to the primary key of the first row and the third column, the primary key of the second row and the third column, and the primary key of the third row and the third column.

A second extension key arranged directly below the primary key in the first row and third column; A second extension key just below the left side of the primary key in two rows and three columns; And ", ", " " " "

The four first extension keys arranged on the left of the four primary keys in the three columns are assigned "ㅐ", "ㅔ", "ㅢ" and "ㅝ" in order.

Other than the default collection in more than | The preceding vowels "ㅑ", "ㅕ", "ㅛ", "ㅠ", "ㅒ" and "ㅖ" can be entered using the key assigned to the corresponding basic vowel and the key assigned to the conversion key. All vowels combined by two or more basic vowels in the present invention, such as "", "ㅟ", "ㅙ", "ㅞ", etc., can be input by using a key to which two default vowels are assigned, and additionally assigned You can use "ㅐ" and "등" to type faster.

9 is a diagram showing a key arrangement for inputting special characters according to another embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 9, by using the key arrangement illustrated in FIG. 2, special characters such as!,?, And @ which are frequently used by a user are assigned to the arranged keys.

The special characters allocated in this way are basic to which the special character functions are assigned in the second key processing unit 150, 350, and 750 included in the character input apparatuses 100, 300, and 700 of FIGS. 1, 3, and 7. It is used when the special character input mode is activated because two or more key inputs are generated from the key (for example, the primary key in the fourth row and the third column).

10 is a diagram illustrating a numeric keypad included in a keyboard of a computer. These numeric keyboards include numeric keys "0-9", arithmetic symbol keys such as "+,-, * and /", "Enter" key, "." Key and "Num Lock" key. .

This numeric keyboard includes the same structure as that of the primary key of four rows and three columns, which is the basis of the present invention. Therefore, the character input method of the present invention can be applied to a computer.

Key arrangements and key assignments of the numeric keypad included in the keyboard of the computer for English character input are illustrated in FIG. 11, and key arrangements and key assignments of the numeric keyboard included in the keyboard of the computer for Korean input are illustrated in FIG. 12. Indicated by In addition, the assignment of the special characters to the numeric keyboard included in the keyboard of the computer is exemplarily shown in FIG.

Using the key arrangement structure of the numeric keypad of FIG. 10 and the key assignment structure of FIGS. 11 to 13, the computer receives a key input in the same manner as the character input method described above with reference to FIGS. can do.

In the above description, the key arrangement and key assignment in the character input apparatus are mainly focused, but the following description mainly focuses on how to process input characters during key processing after a key input occurs.

As described above, when a user presses or touches a separated button having a predetermined shape on the keyboard, a code having a specific number is generated. Such a button is called a "key", a specific code is called a "scan code", and the act of causing a scan code is called a "key input". A typical character input device generates a phoneme code by performing a scan using a character processing program built in the calculator to generate a phoneme code, and combines it with previously input phoneme codes to generate and store a character code. Characters are displayed on the display by matching font information in the device.

In the case of Hangul, the phoneme code means the code corresponding to the basic consonants and vowels to form a complete letter. The character code means a character code representing one complete character, and can be used by using a predetermined ASCII code (Korean KS complete type), Unicode, or by creating a separate character code system. In the present invention, for convenience, special characters such as periods will also be referred to as phoneme codes.

In the case of Hangul, the character code should also contain the codes for the phonemes corresponding to consonants and vowels. Thus, phoneme codes can be used in the same way as character codes, or they can be used to create a separate new code system.

In the case of English, since the phoneme is not composed of a combination of basic phonemes, the phoneme code can be used as a phoneme code without a separate phoneme code. Therefore, in the case of English, the process of generating a character code by combining phoneme codes is excluded.

14 is a block diagram illustrating a character input apparatus 1400 according to another embodiment of the present invention. In this case, the character input apparatus 1400 includes an input unit 1410, an operation unit 1420, and an output unit ( 1430, the memory device 1124, and the like.

Referring to FIG. 14, the character input apparatus 1400 may include an input unit 1410 including a plurality of keys of a touch screen, a push button, a touch button, and the like, and an operation unit for reading and processing the input keys (central processing). Device) 1420, a storage unit 1440 used for programs, font information, temporary storage, and the like, and an output unit 1430 such as CRT, liquid crystal, and the like.

Referring to FIG. 14, when a key is input from the input unit 1410, the operation unit 1420 refers to information stored in the storage unit 1440 or performs an operation using the storage unit 1440 and outputs a string. It is displayed on the unit 1430.

The storage unit 1440 includes a code buffer for storing phoneme codes for generating characters and an output buffer for storing characters to be displayed on the display unit. Here, a buffer refers to a storage place for temporarily storing data when processing or transmitting information.

Therefore, when a key is input, the operation unit 1420 performs a scan code → phoneme code → character code using information and a buffer in the storage unit 1440 to display a character string on the output unit 1430.

15 to 17 are flowcharts for processing input characters when a key is input. Referring to FIG. 15, when a key is input, a scan code is generated, and the operation unit 1420 converts the generated scan code into a phoneme code corresponding thereto. The following procedure is performed according to the number of phoneme codes already stored in the code buffer, which will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 to 17.

1) When there is no phoneme code stored in code buffer

The phoneme code is stored in the code buffer, and the phoneme code stored in the code buffer is calculated and converted into a character code, which is then added to the output buffer. The calculating unit 1420 displays the character codes in the output buffer on the output unit 1430 using the font information of the storage device.

2) One phoneme code stored in code buffer

If the input phoneme code is a vowel ('ㅏ') and the phoneme code in the code buffer is the Korean initial code ('ㄱ'), the input phoneme code is added to the code buffer ('ㄱ' + 'ㅏ') and the output buffer Delete the last character code ('ㄱ') of the. Then, one character code ('ga') generated by calculating codes of the code buffer is added to the output buffer. The character string 'ga' is displayed on the output unit 1430.

If the input phoneme code is not a vowel or the phoneme code in the code buffer is not the Korean initial code ('ㅓ'), a new phoneme code ('ㄱ') is stored in the code buffer and the code buffer's codes are calculated. Add one character code ('ㄱ') to the output buffer ('ㅓㄱ'). In addition, a string 'ㅓㄱ' is displayed on the output unit 1430.

3) In case of two phoneme codes stored in code buffer

If there are two phoneme codes stored in the code buffer (('ㄱ' + 'ㅏ'). If the input phoneme code is supported ('ㅂ'), the phoneme code is added to the code buffer ('ㄱ' + 'ㅏ' + 'ㅂ') Deletes the last character code ('ga') of the output buffer, and adds one character code ('A') generated by operating the code buffer's codes to the output buffer. Print a string ('A') on the display.

If the input phoneme code is not support ('ㅓ'), a new phoneme code is stored in the code buffer ('ㅓ') and one character code ('ㅓ') generated by calculating the code buffer codes is output to the output buffer. Add. A string ('ga') is displayed on the output unit 1430.

4) When there are 3 phoneme codes stored in code buffer

This is the case when there are three phoneme codes stored in the code buffer ('ㄱ' + 'ㅏ' + 'ㅂ'). If the input phoneme code is a vowel ('ㅓ'), the last character code ('d') is deleted from the code buffer, and only the first two phoneme codes of the code buffer ('ga') are added to the output buffer. Deletes the first two phonemes in the buffer and adds ('ㅂ' + 'ㅓ') the input phonemes. Then, one character code ('buffer') generated by calculating codes of the code buffer is added to the output buffer. In addition, the output unit 1430 outputs a string ('Gabor').

If the input phoneme code is not a vowel and forms the last phoneme code in the code buffer and the double signable sound ('ㅅ'), the last character ('A') of the output buffer is deleted and the last phoneme code of the code buffer is matched. It converts into a consonant phoneme code ('ㄱㅅ') and calculates and adds one character code generated by calculating codes of the code buffer to the output buffer ('value'). The code buffer has four phoneme codes ('ㄱ' + 'ㅏ' + 'ㅂ' + 'ㅅ') by adding input phoneme codes. And a string ('value') is displayed on the display.

If the input phoneme code is not a vowel and does not form the last phoneme code in the code buffer and the available double consonant ('ㄴ'), a new one is generated by storing a new input phoneme code in the code buffer and calculating the code buffer code. Append the character code ('ㄴ') to the output buffer. And prints a string ('value') to the display.

5) When there are 4 phoneme codes stored in code buffer

If there are 4 phoneme codes stored in the code buffer ('ㄱ' + 'ㅏ' + 'ㅂ' + 'ㅅ'), the newly entered phoneme codes are not vowels ('ㄴ'). Saves a new phoneme code ('ㄴ') and adds one character code ('ㄴ') generated by calculating the code buffer code to the output buffer. A string ('value') is displayed on the output unit 1430.

If the newly input phoneme code is a vowel ('ㅓ'), the last character code ('value') is deleted from the output buffer, and the first three phoneme codes of the code buffer are calculated to calculate the character code ('A') in the output buffer. Add Then, the last phoneme code of the code buffer and the input phoneme code are newly stored ('ㅂ' + 'ㅓ') in the code buffer. One character code ('seo') generated by calculating the code buffer's code is added to the output buffer. In addition, the output unit 1430 displays a string ('success').

Next, the character input processing according to the key input using the extension keys (the first extension key and the second extension key) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. That is, the key processing for the case where two consecutive key inputs from two neighboring basic keys are input with a small time difference will be described with reference to FIG.

Referring to FIG. 18, when two neighboring keys are input at a very small time difference, two phoneme codes are generated instead of one phoneme code, and a second key is generated when the phoneme code is generated. Is entered with a small time difference and it is not known whether a new code should be generated. Therefore, the first input should follow the normal input processing procedure. Then, two spare buffers are prepared in preparation for the second key to be input in small time differences. That is, spare code buffers and spare output buffers. When a new input is processed, the previous information is stored in a spare buffer. And when the second key is inputted with small time difference, and two inputs should be treated as one input, the value of spare buffer is taken and used.

Referring to FIG. 18, two time buffers are prepared to compare the input time, and when there is a new phoneme code input, the values in the time buffer are copied to the spare time buffer and the current time is stored in the time buffer. .

Referring to FIG. 18, when the difference in time in two stored time buffers is calculated and the difference is greater than a very small time (for example, 0.1 second) or the phoneme code is not combined, the value of the code buffer is preliminarily coded. In the buffer, the value of the output buffer is stored in the spare output buffer.

If the time difference between the two stored time buffers is less than 0.1 second as an example, the combined input procedure is performed. In contrast to the previous procedure, the preliminary code buffer value is copied to the code buffer and the preliminary output buffer value is copied to the output buffer.

In both cases, a double vowel processing procedure is added before the general input procedure. By putting the double vowel processing procedure between the general input processing procedure and the combination input process, the value of consecutive vowels can be used as the last code value of the code buffer and the last code value of the preliminary code buffer to avoid collision with phoneme code conversion.

As described above, when two neighboring keys are input with a small time difference, a general input procedure is performed through a combination process and a double vowel process.

Next, the character input processing for the double vowel will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

The processing of a double vowel is a process of processing a single vowel when two or more vowels are continuously input. If "ㅗ" and "ㅏ" are entered in sequence, the input value is treated as "ㅘ", and the last code value ("ㅗ") is deleted from the code buffer value. If there is no phoneme code remaining in the code buffer after deleting the last code value from the code buffer value, only one vowel is input, and the last character code is deleted from the output buffer. The value "ㅘ" will be added in the next general input procedure. In the case of "TT" and "ㅓ", it converts to "ㅝ" value, and "ㅏㅑㅓㅕ ㅗ ㅘ ㅜㅏ ㅑㅓ ㅕㅗ ㅘ ㅡ" becomes "ㅐ ㅒ ㅔ ㅖ ㅚ ㅙ ㅟ ㅞ ㅢ" in combination with "ㅣ", respectively.

A double vowel processing procedure will be described with reference to FIG.

The phoneme code is replaced with a double vowel and the last phoneme is deleted from the code buffer. If there is one phoneme code, the last character code of the output buffer is deleted and the phoneme code of the code buffer is deleted.

20 is a flowchart for character input processing for the conversion key function. Referring to FIG. 20, the character input processing for the conversion key function will be described.

As an example, the conversion key ↔ is assigned to the "*" key (the primary key in four rows and two columns). The conversion key performs two functions. When the conversion key is input for the first time, the conversion process is performed. From the second conversion key, the back space function is performed.

If the conversion key is not input, the number of conversion key input is stored as 0. When the conversion key is input, the number of inputs of the conversion key is increased by one. If the value of the conversion key input value is "1", the conversion function is executed. If the conversion key input value is "2" or more, the background space function is performed. When the conversion key is input for the first time, the last code value of the code buffer is read to convert to the corresponding phoneme code.

음 (ㄸ, ㄸ, ㅃ, ㅆ, ㅉ) and "ㅣ" leading vowels (ㅑ, ㅕ, ㅛ, ㅠ, ㅒ, ㅖ) are the basic characters that make up their composition (ㄱ, ,, ㅂ, ,, ㅖ) And (변환, ㅓ, ㅗ, TT, ㅐ, ㅔ) key, and then press the convert key to convert.

If the code buffer has three phonetic codes of initial, neutral, and final, and the final final is converted to "ㄸ, ㅃ, ㅉ", which is a hard sound that cannot be supported by the base, the preliminary code buffer value is read and stored in the code buffer. In the output buffer, delete the last character code and add the character code that computed the code buffer. If there are four phoneme codes in the code buffer, the last two codes form a consonant sound, and when the last phoneme code is converted to a tone, the last phoneme code of the code buffer is deleted. For example, the conversion from "soul" to "knock". If there is no phone code in the code buffer, the last character code is deleted from the output buffer.

Back Space function can be erased by phoneme or character unit. The case of erasing by phoneme is explained. If there are more than two phoneme codes in the code buffer, delete the last phoneme code of the code buffer, delete the last character code in the output buffer, and add the character code to the output buffer by calculating the phone code of the code buffer. If there is only one phoneme code in the code buffer, the last character of the output buffer is calculated and divided into phoneme codes. The code buffer is stored in the code buffer and the last character of the output buffer is deleted. If you delete by character, delete all code buffers and delete the last character of output buffer.

A description of the character input processing for the special character function will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 21 and FIG. 9 which is an exemplary view of the key arrangement of the special character described above.

In the present invention, as an example, the "." Key is assigned to the well key (#) key, which is the primary key in four rows and three columns, and used as a function key for inputting a "." Key and a function key for inputting special characters. The. "." Key is used to enter the normal key lottery ".". And "." If two key inputs occur for a key, the character enters the special character input mode. If a dot is entered or a key to which no special character is assigned is entered, the special character input mode is cancelled.

For example, assigning ",!? $ \ @ #% &" To 9 keys 1 to 9 and pressing the key while ".." is entered will delete the characters of ".." Special characters are entered. Even when two neighboring keys are pressed with a small time difference, additional special characters can be assigned to easily input more special characters.

As described above, according to the present invention, there is an effect of providing a character input method suitable for a keyboard composed of 12 keys of 4 rows and 3 columns in a small electronic device such as a mobile phone, a remote controller, or a general telephone.

In addition, according to the present invention, there is an effect of eliminating the inconvenience of having to repeatedly press one key to input one character by introducing 12 keys of 4 rows and 3 columns and additional virtual expansion keys using the same. .

In addition, according to the present invention, it is suitable for 12 keys of 4 rows and 3 columns, and the effect of enabling convenient and rapid character input by arranging alphabets of Korean alphabets or English alphabets so that the user is familiar with the position of the characters. There is.

In addition, according to the present invention, by providing a character input method that can be applied to all electronic devices having an input device including 12 keys in four rows and three columns, the uniformity of the character input method to the user using a variety of electronic devices By providing a convenient and quick character input is effective.

In the above description, all elements constituting the embodiments of the present invention are described as being combined or operating in combination, but the present invention is not necessarily limited to the embodiments. In other words, within the scope of the present invention, all of the components may be selectively operated in combination with one or more. In addition, although all of the components may be implemented in one independent hardware, each or all of the components may be selectively combined to perform some or all functions combined in one or a plurality of hardware. It may be implemented as a computer program having a. Codes and code segments constituting the computer program may be easily inferred by those skilled in the art. Such a computer program may be stored in a computer readable storage medium and read and executed by a computer, thereby implementing embodiments of the present invention. The storage medium of the computer program may include a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, a carrier wave medium, and the like.

In addition, the terms "comprise", "comprise" or "having" described above mean that a corresponding component may be included, unless otherwise stated, and thus excludes other components. It should be construed that it may further include other components. All terms, including technical and scientific terms, have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art unless otherwise defined. Terms commonly used, such as terms defined in a dictionary, should be interpreted to coincide with the contextual meaning of the related art, and shall not be construed in an ideal or excessively formal sense unless explicitly defined in the present invention.

The foregoing description is merely illustrative of the technical idea of the present invention, and various changes and modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the essential characteristics of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are not intended to limit the technical idea of the present invention but to describe the present invention, and the scope of the technical idea of the present invention is not limited by these embodiments. The protection scope of the present invention should be interpreted by the following claims, and all technical ideas within the equivalent scope should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present invention.

1 is a block diagram of a character input device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

2 illustrates a key arrangement according to an embodiment of the present invention;

3 is a block diagram of a character input device for inputting an English letter according to another embodiment of the present invention;

4 is a first exemplified diagram of key assignment for inputting an English letter according to another embodiment of the present invention;

5 is a second exemplary view of key assignment for inputting an English letter according to another embodiment of the present invention;

6 is a third exemplary diagram of key assignment for inputting an English letter according to another embodiment of the present invention;

7 is a block diagram illustrating a character input device for inputting Korean according to another embodiment of the present invention;

8 is a diagram showing key assignment for inputting a Hangul according to another embodiment of the present invention;

9 is a view showing a key arrangement for inputting special characters according to another embodiment of the present invention;

10 is a view showing a number keyboard included in a keyboard of a computer,

11 is a view showing a key arrangement for inputting an English letter according to another embodiment of the present invention applied to a numeric keypad included in a computer keyboard;

12 is a diagram showing a key arrangement for inputting a Hangul according to another embodiment of the present invention applied to a numeric keypad included in a computer keyboard;

13 is a view showing a key arrangement for inputting special characters according to another embodiment of the present invention applied to a numeric keypad included in a computer keyboard;

14 is a block diagram illustrating a text input device according to another embodiment of the present invention;

15 to 17 are flowcharts for processing input characters;

18 is a flowchart of character input processing according to key input using an extended key;

19 is a flowchart of a character input process for a double vowel;

20 is a flowchart for character input processing for the conversion key function;

21 is a flowchart for character input processing for the special character function.

<Description of Symbols for Main Parts of Drawings>

100: character input device

110: key arrangement

120: first key assignment unit

130: second key assignment unit

140: first key processing unit

150: second key processing unit

Claims (21)

In the character input device, 12 primary keys, eight virtual first extension keys, and nine virtual second extension keys, arranged in four rows and three columns, each row between each primary key in each row. A key arrangement unit for arranging one extension key and arranging the second extension key for each of the primary keys of each row in each column of the twelve primary keys; A first key allocator for allocating alphabetic characters to nine primary keys of the first to third rows, the eight first extended keys, and the nine second extended keys, respectively, among the twelve primary keys; And If a key input is generated from one of the 12 primary keys, the English letter assigned to the one primary key is processed as an input character, and two consecutive keys from two neighboring primary keys among the 12 primary keys are input. When an input occurs, the difference between the input time for the two consecutive key inputs and a preset threshold value are compared, and based on the result of the comparison, the first primary array arranged between the two neighboring primary keys. A first key processing unit for processing an English letter assigned to the extended key or the second extended key as an input character Character input device comprising a. The method of claim 1, The character input device, A second key allocating unit for allocating a space bar function, a conversion key function, a back space function, and a special character function to three basic keys on four lines among the 12 basic keys; And A second key processing unit which performs one of the space bar function, the conversion key function, the back space function, and the special character function when a key input is generated from one of the three basic keys; Character input device characterized in that it further comprises. 3. The method of claim 2, The second key processing unit, If the first key input occurs from the basic key to which the conversion key function is assigned by the second key allocating unit, the conversion key function converts the previously inputted alphabet letter into uppercase or lowercase, And a back space function for erasing the previously entered alphabetic characters one by one when the second key assignment unit generates two or more consecutive key inputs from the basic key to which the conversion key function is assigned. The method of claim 1, The first key assignment unit, In row 1, assign "A, B, C, D, and E" to each of the three primary keys and the two first expansion keys in each column, In row 2, "F, G, H, I, and J" are assigned to each of the three primary keys and the two primary expansion keys in each column. In row 3, assign "K, L, M, N and O" to each of the three primary keys and the two first expansion keys of each column, Assigns "P, Q and R" to three second extension keys arranged directly below the first row, Assign "S, T and U" to three second extension keys arranged directly below the second row, "V, W, and X" are respectively assigned to three second extension keys arranged directly below the third row, And "Y and Z" respectively assigned to two first extension keys arranged between three primary keys in four rows. The method of claim 1, The first key assignment unit, In row 1, assign "A, B, C, D, and E" to each of the three primary keys and the two first expansion keys in each column, Assigns "F, G and H" to three second extension keys arranged directly below the first row, In row 2, assign "I, J, K, L, and M" to each of the three primary keys and the two first expansion keys in each column, Assigns "N, O and P" to three second extension keys arranged directly below the second row, In row 3, assign "Q, R, S, T, and U" to each of the three primary keys and the two first expansion keys in each column, "V, W, and X" are respectively assigned to three second extension keys arranged directly below the third row, And "Y and Z" respectively assigned to two first extension keys arranged between three primary keys in four rows. The method of claim 1, The first key assignment unit, In the direction from row 1 to row 3, in each row, Each of the 24 alphabetical characters of the alphabets is arranged in three primary keys in each column, three second expansion keys directly below the three primary keys in each column, and two first expansion keys between the three primary keys in each column. Assign it, And assigning the remaining two alphabets to two first extension keys arranged between three primary keys in four rows, respectively. In the character input device, 12 primary keys, eight virtual first extension keys, and nine virtual second extension keys, arranged in four rows and three columns, each row between each primary key in each row. A key arrangement unit for arranging one extension key and arranging the second extension key for each of the primary keys of each row in each column of the twelve primary keys; A first key allocator for allocating a Hangul alphabet to each of the nine primary keys 1 to 3, the eight first extended keys and the nine second extended keys among the twelve primary keys; And If a key input is generated from one of the 12 primary keys, the Hangul alphabet assigned to the one of the primary keys is treated as an input character, and 2 consecutive from the two neighboring primary keys of the 12 primary keys are input characters. Is generated, the difference between the input time for the two consecutive key inputs and the predetermined threshold value is compared, and based on the result of the comparison, the two primary keys arranged between the two neighboring primary keys A first key processing unit for processing a Jamo alphabet assigned to the first extended key or the second extended key as an input character Including, The first key assignment unit, Six primary keys in columns 1 and 2 for rows 1 to 3; Four first extension keys arranged immediately to the right of the primary key of each column for rows 1 to 4; And assigns a basic consonant of Korean to 14 of 16 keys including 6 second extension keys arranged directly below each of the 6 primary keys in columns 1 and 2 for rows 1 to 3, Three primary keys in three columns except four; Four first extension keys arranged immediately to the left of each of the four primary keys in three rows; And assigning a basic vowel of Korean to six of ten keys including three second extended keys arranged below each of the three primary keys except three rows. The method of claim 7, wherein The character input device, A second key allocating unit for allocating a space bar function, a conversion key function, a back space function, and a special character function to three basic keys on four lines among the 12 basic keys; And A second key processing unit which performs one of the space bar function, the conversion key function, the back space function, and the special character function when a key input is generated from one of the three basic keys; Character input device characterized in that it further comprises. The method of claim 8, The second key processing unit, When the first key input occurs from the basic key to which the conversion key function is assigned by the second key allocator, the consonant or | The conversion key function for converting to a preceding collection; If two or more consecutive key inputs are generated from the basic key to which the conversion key function is assigned by the second key allocator, a back space function of deleting previously input phonemes or syllables is performed based on phonemes or syllables. Character input device characterized in that. The method of claim 7, wherein The first key assignment unit, Four rows of rows 1 to 3 assigned “a, c, ㅂ, and” to four of the six primary keys in columns 1 and 2, respectively, and four assigned “a, c, ㅂ, and”. Assign each of the four second expansion keys directly below the primary key "ㅋ, ㅌ, ㅍ, and", And "b, d, ㅁ, ㅅ, ㅇ, and ㅎ" to each of the remaining keys to which the basic consonants are assigned. The method of claim 7, wherein The first key assignment unit, Three primary keys in three columns except four; And six basic vowels of “ㅏ, ㅓ, ㅗ, TT, ㅡ and ㅣ” for each of the three second extension keys arranged directly below each of the three primary keys except three rows. Character input device. The method of claim 11, The first key assignment unit, And assigning one or more of the remaining vowels except for the six basic vowels to the remaining keys except for the keys to which the six basic vowels and the fourteen basic consonants are assigned. In the character input device, 12 primary keys, 8 virtual first keys, and 9 virtual second keys, arranged in four rows and three columns, and each primary key in each row of four rows and three columns. A key arrangement unit for arranging the first extension key between each other, and arranging the second extension key for each primary key of each row in each of four columns and three columns; A first key allocating unit for allocating characters to nine primary keys of the first to third rows, the eight first extended keys, and the nine second extended keys, respectively, among the twelve primary keys; A second key allocating unit for allocating a space bar function, a conversion key function, a back space function, and a special character function to three basic keys on four lines among the 12 basic keys; When a key input is generated from one of the nine primary keys, the character assigned to the one primary key is treated as an input character, and two consecutive keys from two neighboring primary keys among the 12 primary keys are input. When an input occurs, the first threshold value is arranged between the two neighboring primary keys based on a result of the comparison by comparing a difference between the input time for the two consecutive key inputs and a preset threshold value. A first key processing unit for processing a character assigned to an extended key or the second extended key as an input character; And A second key processing unit that performs one of the space bar function, the conversion key function, the back space function, and the special character function when a key input is generated from one of the three basic keys; Character input device comprising a. The method of claim 13, The first key processing unit, When the two consecutive key inputs occur from two neighboring primary keys among the 12 primary keys, Checking the difference value of the input time of the two consecutive key inputs, If the difference is less than or equal to the threshold value, a character assigned to the first extended key or the second extended key arranged between the two neighboring primary keys is processed as an input character, And when the difference value exceeds the threshold, the successive two key inputs are processed separately. 15. The method of claim 14, The first key processing unit, When the two consecutive key inputs occur from two neighboring primary keys among the 12 primary keys, Confirming the difference value of the input time of the two consecutive key inputs, and determining the possibility of combining the two consecutive key inputs, If the difference is less than the threshold and the two consecutive key inputs are combinable key inputs, a character assigned to the first extended key or the second extended key arranged between the two neighboring primary keys Treats as an input character, Even if the difference value is less than or equal to the threshold value, the two consecutive key inputs are non-combinable key inputs, or if the difference value exceeds the threshold value, the two consecutive key inputs are processed separately. Character input device. The method of claim 13, The second key assignment unit, Assign the space bar function to the primary key in the fourth row and the first column. The conversion key function and the back space function are allocated to the primary keys of the fourth row and the second column. In the primary key of the fourth row and the third column, the special character is assigned to input a predetermined special character for one key input, and the special character input mode is controlled for two or more consecutive key inputs according to the number of key inputs. Character input device, characterized in that for assigning a special character function. The method of claim 16, The second key processing unit, The conversion for converting a character corresponding to a key input before the primary key of the fourth row and the second column into the other character based on the current input mode when the first key input occurs from the primary key of the fourth row and the second column; Key functions, When two or more consecutive key inputs are generated from the primary keys in the fourth row and the second column, the back space function of deleting the previously entered characters is performed. And the current input mode is one of a Korean input mode and an English input mode. The method of claim 17, The second key processing unit, When the current input mode is the English input mode, if a first key input occurs from the primary key of the fourth row and second column, And a conversion key function for converting an alphabetic character corresponding to a key input before the primary key of the fourth row and the second column into a corresponding lowercase letter or a corresponding uppercase letter. The method of claim 17, The second key processing unit, When the current input mode is the Hangul input mode, if one key input occurs from the primary key of the fourth row and second column, If the Hangul character corresponding to the key input before the primary key of the 4th row and the 2nd column is inputted, it is converted to the l preceding vowel corresponding to the vowel, And a conversion key function for converting a consonant consonant into a consonant consonant corresponding to the key input before the basic key of the fourth row and the second column is input. The method of claim 16, The second key processing unit, When one key input occurs from the primary key in the fourth row and the third column, the special character assigned to the primary key in the fourth row and the third column is treated as an input character, When two consecutive key inputs are generated from the primary keys of the fourth row and the third column, after activating the special character input mode, if a key input occurs from another key except the primary key of the fourth row, the key is pre-assigned to the other keys. Treated special characters as input characters, Character input characterized in that the activated special character input mode is deactivated when a key input is generated from one of the four primary keys in a state in which two consecutive key inputs are generated from the primary keys of the fourth row and the third column. Device. The method of claim 13, The character input device is a character input device, characterized in that one of a mobile phone, a telephone, a remote control, a calculator, a mobile terminal and a computer.

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