WO2003069458A2

WO2003069458A2 - Method for allocating a reward, punishment or help during the operation of a user program and personal computer or computer system

Info

Publication number: WO2003069458A2
Application number: PCT/EP2003/001617
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alexander Laub
Original assignee: Alexander Laub
Priority date: 2002-02-18
Filing date: 2003-02-18
Publication date: 2003-08-21
Also published as: WO2003069458A3; DE10206678A1; AU2003212248A1

Abstract

To optimize the operation of a user program, such as for example a word processing system, the program is adapted to the user during operation. A characteristic value, (which is at least ternary and is as a rule a whole number that is rational or real), is created with the aid of a count or estimation of the number and/or an evaluation of the type of word characters and/or a key combination, or with the aid of an evaluation of how many different windows, split windows and logical symbols have been activated. A program function or a launch option for a program function is then modified, if the characteristic value exceeds or falls short of a specific threshold. According to the invention, several characteristic values can be created. The number of key strikes per minute and the number of different key combinations used are examples of characteristic values of this type. Conversely, the method also allows the user functions to be sabotaged.

Description

METHOD FOR ALLOWING A REWARD OR PUNISHMENT OR HELP IN OPERATING A USER PROGRAM AND PERSONNEL COMPUTER OR COMPUTER SYSTEM

Field of the Invention:

The invention relates to a method for allocating a program operating possibility expansion or a program textual reward, a program operating possibility restriction or a punishment external to the program or a program operating aid when operating a user program, in particular a word processing program and one

Computer (personal computer, notebook) or a computer system with such a user program. A user program (or user program) is any program with which one can achieve a purpose that is outside the determination and improvement of program operability, such as creating a printable text, printing the same, creating a graphic, a table, creating programs for the electronic control of machines, viewing websites on the Internet and downloading files from the Internet and much more A computer game in which the system functions are operated as optimally as possible and in which points are awarded as a reward and a cash prize may be distributed is not a user program in terms of registration. The same applies to a pure training program for practicing the operation of a program.

State of the art: It is known to design user programs in such a way that the

Programs are equipped with various functions. Some users want an enlarged toolbar, others define new keyboard shortcuts and macro programs. The information about which functions are activated is often stored in document templates. DE 199 03 631 AI describes a system for pre-parameterizing components by means of which the program's standard settings are stored. DE 41 21 564 AI relates to a device for supporting document creation in a document creation device for such tasks. From the article "Adapting the Web Interface: An Adaptive Web Browser" by K. Hennricksen and J. Indulska, in: Proceedings of the Second Australian User Interface Conference (AUIC'01), January 29 - February 01, 2001, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia, pp. 21-27, it is known that web browsers can adapt to settings specified by the user or his system, eg given limited possibilities for color representation, certain images can be sent with preference, which do not require a high color representation capability For this purpose, certain quality indices are created.

For the optimal use of limited computer resources, this browser can also adapt to the user. For example, the system may offer fewer program functions for beginners than for the advanced user. It can be assumed that the user experience is measured by counting the frequency of logging in or at the very most - the article is silent - by measuring the duration of use.

This article also mentions the possibility of defining a new command option for a frequently occurring command sequence, by means of which the operating speed is increased. This is a program operator extension that is not provided in the original program code.

It is known from many programs, for example the Microsoft Word program, that the four files last called up are specified in the file menu and can be called up quickly from there, even with a key combination. Furthermore, in newer versions of Microsoft programs, the individual sub-items of some menus are not completely specified when the same is called up, but only the four most recently called up, for example. In the Internet Explorer web browser, for example, only the last accessed internet addresses are shown as folder contents in the favorites menu if it is too full. The other addresses can be queried by clicking a double arrow. This is a change in the way the program can be operated, which is dependent on the previous use, but was not intended in this form in the original system. It is also known in the prior art to change the program functions while using a program. For example, it can happen that an employee in a company displays an additional window on his colleague's screen from his workplace for the purpose of sabotage or jokingly via the network.

Training programs for computer programs are known in which one function after the other is activated and can then be practiced. Such training lies outside the normal operation of a user program.

Another aspect of the prior art programs is that the ability to operate programs is tested and a reward is possibly awarded. In the "Lana" report of the Language Research Center, Georgia State University, October 1, 1999, pp. 1-2, available on December 10, 2002 on the Internet at http://wcb.archive.org/web/19991001 160414 / http: // www, gsu.edu/~wwwlrc/biographies/la na. html shows how a monkey is rewarded with a candy after entering certain key sequences. The key sequences only had to be entered once.

The invention:

Object of the invention:

It is an object of the invention to provide the possibility of greater flexibility in program operation in the program equipment, so that the work performance can be optimized for different users and application purposes.

Principle of the invention:

This problem is solved by using the input signals (individual keys, key combinations, mouse signals or possibly still to be evaluated voice or image signals) to form a characteristic value for system operability and to award a reward or punishment or help if the characteristic value exceeds a characteristic value limit - and / or falls below. A mouse signal here means both a button click, a coherent process of moving the mouse ("drag and drop" to move text parts in a word processing program or image field parts in a graphics program) and, if there is a role, their operation a speech sequence entered by a microphone may have to be evaluated by a speech recognition program, and the order of the evaluation is then arranged according to the command given or the word or phrase given by the sound sequence An image can also be evaluated based on the content of the image, for example on the occurrence of certain geometric figures (triangles, squares) or also image symbols therein.

A characteristic value in the sense of the application is a non-binary characteristic value, that is, a characteristic value that differs from a mere “yes” or “no” so that a limit is actually to be regarded as being exceeded. The characteristic value should therefore be at least ternary, the variable should therefore be able to assume three values, namely a lower value, a value to be exceeded, a value above the limit. A quaternary value or a characteristic variable that can have five values is advantageous. In order to be able to exceed and fall below different limits, a quaternary characteristic value is necessary, namely with a value below the limit, for the lower limit, for the upper limit, and with a value above the upper limit. If you want an intermediate value, you need a fifth value. A characteristic value in the form of an integer, e.g. for frequencies, whereby these should be greater than one, usually greater than two or three, perhaps also as five or ten, twelve, twenty, fifty, hundred, thousand or even ten thousand, hundred thousand, million.

In many cases, the characteristic value will be a rational number, usually even a real number.

It should be pointed out that the characteristic value should be a characteristic value for the system operability. The system comprises a) the purely mechanical part, that is to say the operation of the typewriter keyboard and the mouse or also the scanner or microphone, and b) all the functions and function call options that the system provides. For example, it can refer to how many functions and how they are called up (keyboard, mouse, voice input). The characteristic value is thus related to the ability to use the overall system, even if possibly only to a partial aspect such as a single program function. Such a characteristic for system operability. differs from what is described in the above-mentioned article by Henricksen and Indulska because it speaks of new program functions (atomic action) as an abbreviation of command sequences. At most, a frequency parameter is used for system operation, but not for system operability. Henricksen and Indulska are therefore concerned with determining what the user is doing and not how well he is doing it (calling up a function, typing in quickly) or what he is failing to do at the same time (faster calling up of the function in the program is already possible). , One could generally speak of a comparative system operability in the present application.

The reward can be an extension of the program operating options or a reward external to the program, e.g. a working time bonus or the like his. The punishment can be a limitation of the program operating options or a punishment external to the program. Instead of a reward or punishment, help can be offered, which can consist in a simplification of the program operation, which is designed in such a way that it is defined for each user as a function of the characteristic value. The simplification of the program operation can be for one user to remove a circuit symbol, for another user additional circuit symbols are desirable.

According to a preferred embodiment, two characteristic value limits are provided, one serving to define the reward allocation and the other to define the punishment allocation.

The invention serves to increase the effectiveness of the individual operators.

In offices where social equality is overestimated, punishment can be envisaged, especially if the characteristic value indicates high performance and with a characteristic value indicating a low performance, it may also be a reward.

The characteristic value limit can preferably be adapted by means of a unit for adaptation. The adjustment can take place after the awarding of a reward, punishment or help, or also at predefined time intervals, e.g. at the same time intervals or after longer and longer time intervals, so that the user can be trained in a certain way.

In a preferred embodiment, the characteristic value is the number of keystrokes per unit of time, the latter being formed by means of an interval predetermined by a time cycle. Here, the system operability is to be understood as mastery of the keyboard (which, however, is often influenced by a dictation speed). An aid can be, for example, that if the number of keystrokes falls below a (characteristic) limit, the program can be operated, for example

Changing the key press necessary for typing a character is made easier for the user concerned. The characteristic value limit can then preferably be changed during operation of the program by means of a unit for adapting, so that the key press can be optimized. A corresponding computer system must have computers which are equipped with a keyboard with an adaptable keystroke, the adaptation being carried out via electrical (or else optical or infrared) signals from the computer. The keystroke can e.g. by means of the enlargement or reduction of a chamber containing a weakly compressible fluid via a magnetic field-controlled piston. While in a preferred version the key pressure is the same for all keys, it can also be provided that

Determine the speed of the keystroke for each individual key and adjust the key press individually. In this case, the speed must then be determined using the time interval between the relevant keystroke and the previous keystroke, which can lead to inaccuracies.

The determination unit can also determine both the frequency (whole number) with which signals are entered using the mouse and the frequency (whole number) with which key combinations are entered, so that the characteristic value as a function of these Both frequencies can serve as an indication of whether the user prefers to use key combinations to call up a function or the mouse for this. Correspondingly, an aid can then be that the preferred way of calling a function is supported. For example, the switch icons on the screen can be enlarged to make it easier to click with the mouse when the user prefers the mouse. Conversely, clicking on the switch symbols (smaller symbols, window opens more slowly) can be made more difficult if the user prefers the latter in order to train him to use the faster key combinations. Such a characteristic value can also be formed for each individual function (eg difference or quotient of the frequencies; if the quotient has a frequency of zero in the denominator, the characteristic value is chosen as a very high number). For example, it can then be determined for the functions “copy”, “paste” and “character format” whether the user uses a key combination or the mouse to call them up, and the preferred operation can then be supported. This can go as far as that, for example, the functions "Copy" and "Paste" are removed from the toolbars and the menu windows and only a call with the key combinations "Ctrl-C" and "Ctrl-V" is possible, while the function "Character Format" continues with the toolbar can be called. Since some functions can be called up using the mouse in two or more different ways, it is also possible to leave one type of call as the only type in the program using a characteristic value from the frequency of the calls. For example, in some word processing programs, a document can be closed by pressing a button, but the same function is also available in the file menu. To make the program clearer, the function can be removed from the file menu if the user uses the switching icon. In the same way, a switch symbol or a key combination can be omitted if a corresponding command is always or mostly (e.g. frequency>99.5%,>99%,>98%,>95%,>90%,>85%,> 80% ,>75%,>67%,> 50%) is entered via voice input.

When changing the program properties available to the user, it is also possible to inform the user once or several times by means of an information window that opens on the screen that soon or now a previously existing type of calling a function on the There is no user interface, or such a window can be opened as an aid to draw the user's attention to the fact that the function is easier to access. For example, if the user has used a switch symbol from the toolbar n times (n = integer, useful especially for n> 1), it can be announced that the option to call this function will be removed from a menu if the

Switch symbol is called another m times (m = integer). Alternatively, the user can also be asked whether the menu should be reduced by this function. Alternatively, if the function is called from the menu more than n times, a window can be opened that draws the user's attention to the switch symbol. A characteristic value can e.g. can also be created for each of the circuit symbols, and those circuit symbols that are never used can be automatically removed from the toolbar as an aid. Conversely, the user can be provided with new switching symbols for functions that he often calls up in the menu. It is also possible for the user, in the case of functions which are frequently called up using the mouse or by voice or image input, to be made aware of an existing key combination for this purpose in such an auxiliary window. For frequently called functions that are related, an available roll-up window can be called up and appear on the edge of the screen. The characteristic value can relate the frequencies of any signal input types to one another.

The characteristic value can also relate only to key combinations. It preferably records the total number of key combinations used, and the relative frequencies of using the key combinations can also be taken into account. Either this characteristic value can record all inputs since the start of the implementation of the method, in this case the program adaptation, characteristic values can also be redefined at regular intervals. If k (k = integer) different key combinations are used, a combination of a supply that has not been used up to now can be offered to the person, ie a key combination for a known function can be offered in an auxiliary window (or referred to). For the purpose of training the user, a previously used key combination can also be omitted and a previously unused or infrequently used key combination must then be activated (simply or) several times until the omitted key combination is available again. A reward, punishment or help can also consist in a change in the number of possible assignments of key combinations to program functions, i.e. in an increase in the absolute number of the program functions to be called up by the user by means of key combinations available to him by activating the same or in that different Key combinations are assigned the same function, e.g. a key combination that can be typed in with the left hand or a key combination that can be typed in with the right hand (in the usual way of typewriter typing) or with a key combination that can be typed in with both hands or the assignment of special keys to program functions, including a change the assignment of these special keys to program functions.

It may also be the case that key combinations consisting of a first key and a second key are supplemented by key combinations consisting of the first key and a key adjacent to the second key, e.g. "Ctrl-Q", "Ctrl-W" or "Ctrl-Alt-K" and "Ctrl-Alt-L". If there are typing errors, there may be an increased chance that the correct function will be called.

Alternatively, a completely different key combination can also belong to the same function if, instead of the second key, a key that is more than three key distances apart (i.e. two keys in between) can be pressed, e.g. "Ctrl-Q and" Ctrl-T "or" Ctrl-F "for the same program function.

The characteristic value can also relate exclusively to the mouse signal input. It is determined how many different windows, window parts (menu items etc.) and / or

Switch symbols have been called up with the mouse since the start of the procedure or in a specific time interval or how many different program functions have been activated in total. One can also form one or more groups of program functions, for each of which the characteristic value is formed. The allocation of a punishment or (training) aid then consists in the removal of a previously used window (for example a window that is frequently or at least often used) and the provision of an additional screen element. If the latter is used a certain number of times, the window that has disappeared is made available again. The change can also be that the space occupied by frames, windows, toolbars, etc. is increased or decreased. By removing symbols from two toolbars arranged one below the other, they can be combined into a single one. As a result, the space available for displaying the text can be enlarged in a word processing program and a better overview can be provided, which is particularly useful with small screens such as notebooks. The text character representation can also be changed, for example the font or from bold text to normal text, but in particular a smaller font size can be selected, at least on the screen (zoom function reversed). Image field representations in a graphics program can also be made smaller, graphic elements may be designed with thinner lines, so that space is saved, or some small elements may not be shown exactly.

In newer word processing programs, many function symbols, in particular the switch symbols in the toolbar, can be activated with the mouse (right mouse button) comment flags that call the function of the symbol. As an aid, the comment flag can be expanded if the symbol is rarely called up or not pressed, e.g. be enlarged or supplemented (or also replaced) by a help window.

A special function is the function to undo the previous entry or the previous operation. It is then possible to determine which process is reversed particularly often, for example which key combination a user particularly often accidentally types (typing errors), which mouse action often goes wrong or how often a speech or image input is evaluated incorrectly. The characteristic value or values evaluate the frequency of these incorrectly performed operations. The corresponding input is then made more difficult as an aid: For example, the key combination can be changed (other keys for the same function, in particular keys that are further apart) or supplemented, ie an additional key is necessary. The key combination can also be completely omitted and instead a mouse action (actuation of the switching symbol) is required. Performs a specific one Mouse action frequently leads to errors, it can be delayed. If, for example, "drag and drop" leads to errors, it can be provided that the right mouse button is additionally required for "drop" or that the dragging on the screen is somewhat slower than corresponds to the mouse movement. If the interpretation of voice or image input as a specific command frequently leads to an error, if such an input is interpreted again as this command, a repetition, for example slowly spoken or more carefully scanned, or confirmation by other means (mouse etc.) be requested.

A reward, punishment or help can also consist in the loss of existing program functions or in the provision of additional functions.

In many businesses and offices, jealousy can result when some computer users see on the screen that a colleague has already received many rewards. In order to avoid this at least a little, it can be provided that the colleague quickly enters a basic mode, for example by means of an input (key combination, mouse, password spoken into the microphone, short image input, confirmation of the foot switch). can enter the mode at the beginning of the process or a mode with an average number of rewards to spontaneously change the screen display for camouflage. Of course, the same function also helps users who are less successful (many punishments) and can then return to the basic mode for a certain period of time. Of course, the previous state should then be recoverable with another entry.

In addition to the allocation of in-program rewards, punishments or help, non-program rewards and punishments can also be provided: A change can be provided in a working time account, e.g. overtime can be entered if a secretary is typing quickly or the flextime can be restricted to certain hours if a secretary generates a few strokes per minute. A computer system or computer network with such a program can be coupled to a working time recording system, for example a time clock system. Accordingly, bonus points etc. can also be allocated, which can be monetary. A mixture of internal or external reward or punishment can also be that a computer game or another program (eg for Internet access) is made available to the user on the computer system or vice versa (preferred for the user's lunch break). Different programs can therefore be linked together and a reward for an entry in one program can have an effect in another program. For example, certain standard key combinations such as "Ctrl-C" and "Ctrl-V" can be used for copying and pasting in several programs, and if the switch symbol is omitted due to the use of the key combinations in one program, it can also be removed in another, ie rewards, punishments or help can be carried out simultaneously in different programs on the same computer system, which are of the same type. A characteristic value can then relate to the operating system (for example Windows ME) as the actual program, and it can be determined how often the user calls which (sub) programs, so that a reward, punishment or help is then provided in a user system the installed program running the computer system is transferred to another, which is also called up with a certain frequency.

The characteristic value for a certain key combination or typing speed can also be obtained from the entries in various operating systems

Programs are formed, i.e. e.g. the absolute frequency of using a key combination is determined and this is evaluated in all programs, i.e. an individual adjustment is made for each program.

Since several users work on one computer system in a company, different modes for different program operation processes are provided in the program for executing the method or in which the method can be carried out. These can be user-specific, but can also correspond to different usage situations. The different usage situations can correspond to different dictating persons, for example, if the secretaries write for them and use the word processing program. The reason for this is the different average speaking speed of the dictators. In particular, the characteristic value for the writing speed can be adapted to this or ie a reward for fast typing cannot be given if slow dictation takes place. Signals that have to do with dictation can be entered into the computer system, for example via a foot switch for rewinding or interrupting the dictation tape. If there is frequent interruption, this means that dictation is taking place too quickly, so help is needed to make writing easier. Instead of coupling in signals from the outside, the program can also use the uniformity of the writing to guess when the tape is interrupted or rewound, and in this case the writing speed is then measured and evaluated in very small time intervals (which correspond to a few words, etc.). If there is a delay, this may be due to an interruption due to an impact on the tape. A tutorial can improve this guessing by coupling to the foot switch, so that no such coupling is necessary in the computer system used. It is also possible to include a time derivative of the writing speed in the formation of the characteristic value.

Rewards. Punishments and help can also be allocated in combination, even in different user programs at the same time.

A computer such as a personal computer or laptop, also a palmtop or even an entire computer system on which a user program for executing the method according to the invention runs comprises an input unit, e.g. Keyboard and / or mouse and / or microphone and / or image input device (also to be referred to as an image reading device or image input unit), a determination unit for evaluating signals that were input via the input unit by forming a corresponding characteristic value for the system operating ability of the user, and a

Allocation unit for causing a change in the active state of the computer or computer system.

In addition to the user program, a second program can be stored on the computer or computer system, during the operation of which a characteristic value can also be formed or in which or by means of which a reward can be allocated. If it is an Internet program, the computer or the computer system requires one Internet connection. The allocation unit can be designed in such a way that it can effect changes in at least two user programs at the same time.

Depending on which of the above-mentioned methods is to be carried out, the computer system or the computer system must have a keyboard with an adjustable keystroke, a mouse with an adjustable slidability or an adjustable mouse keystroke or a switch (pedal), the latter in particular being able to control a dictation player. An input unit can be used to adapt the limit value or the limit values, or an adaptation unit does this automatically according to predetermined criteria.

The computer or the computer system can also be connected to a unit in which a reward or punishment is registered, for example a memory for keeping a cash or bonus point account or also with a working time recording device (time clock system).

A clock is required to perform many of the above methods so that time intervals can be formed.

Brief description of the drawing:

1 shows a computer system according to the invention for executing the method according to the invention, and

2 shows a key unit for a keyboard or mouse for use in some embodiments of the method according to the invention.

Description of embodiments of the invention:

A computer system according to the invention comprises computers 10, 12 and 14. The computer 10 contains a processor for processing signals and for generating

Control signals. A clock 18 is necessary to determine time intervals. User programs 22, 24 and 26 are stored in a program memory 20. The program 26 is an Internet program, a connection 27 leads to the Internet. alternative The connection 27 can also lead to a working time recording system or can be used to input signals from a foot switch controlling a dictation writing system. The invention can also be implemented as a closed system from a finite number of computers without a data line (27) to the outside; the method according to the invention does not require the Internet.

A keyboard 28 and a mouse 30 (for each computer) act as the input unit. If the keyboard 28 and / or mouse 30 have changeable functions, these can be controlled via the processor 16, the keyboard via the line 17 (omitted in the case of a laptop). Further input units are a microphone 29 for voice input and a scanner 31 (a hand scanner device is shown stylized as an image input device) for image input.

A screen 32 is connected to the computer 10. In a typical word processing system 22, the user interface 38 has a menu bar 34 with menu buttons 42 and a toolbar 36 with symbol buttons 44. For the purposes of the claims, these should all be viewed as windows or window parts. In addition, a rollup window 40 can enrich the user interface for function groups. In a function pool 46, various program functions for a program 22 or all programs 22, 24 26 are assigned simultaneously, such as the function “copy” 50, “paste” 58, “define character size” 66, registers 51, 59, and 67, which counts how often the function in question is used.

The program function call possibilities 52, 54, 56, 60, 62, 64, 68 are managed in a program function call possibility pool 48. For example, the function "Copy" from the function pool 46 has the option 52 to be called up via the keyboard (Ctrl-C), via the "Edit" menu in the menu bar 34 and via a symbol button 44 in the toolbar. The "Define character size" function can be combined with other functions, and a group of related functions can then be linked to one another for a menu item ("Format"). The same is possible to form a rollup window. Registers 53, 55, 57, 61, 63, 65, 67 are used to count how often which function call option is used. The invention can also be used if either only the registers 51, 59 or 67 or only the registers 53, 55, 57, 61, 63, 65, 69 are present, depending on whether one wants to give the user additional functions or only want to change the type of function call. In combination, for example, an additional function "open help window" is provided to reward a user, while at the same time a

Reward can be to define an additional symbol button. Individual key entries can also serve as units in the program function call-up pool 48, so that the number of keystrokes can be determined.

A determination unit 70 serves to determine a characteristic value from among the

Data provided to registers 51, 53, 55, 57, 59, 61, 63, 65, 67 and 69. Each characteristic value is continuously recalculated or updated regularly. In a characteristic value limit formation unit 74, characteristic value limits are defined, which can, however, be variable, in particular can be changed by means of a unit 72 for adapting, for example after the awarding of a reward. Punishment or help.

An allocation unit 76 allocates rewards, punishments or aids based on a comparison of the characteristic value with the characteristic limit value. Apart from a reward outside the program via line 27 or from one program 22 to the other programs 24, 26, a memory 78 is used for active ones

Function call options for detecting which functions can be called from pool 46 by means of which call option from pool 48 in the program used.

If the characteristic value detects how often a key combination has been used and is used particularly frequently, the pool 46 can use the same function for the same function

Calling up via the toolbar 36 does not apply as a reward, in order to make room for other symbols or to be able to gradually increase the area available for text characters (omission of the entire toolbar or placing the same elsewhere). The same applies if certain commands are given by means of voice input via the microphone 29 (or also via the scanner 31).

It is regularly possible and sensible to carry out a success check in the method according to the invention; the determination unit only has to change the registers record or reset (at least partially) to zero after awarding rewards etc.

If a reward / punishment external to the program is to be allocated, it sends data via line 27 (and possibly also receives data).

The units 46, 48 can (also in memory form) be part of one of the computers 10, 12, 14 or can also be provided in all of these. The pools 46 and 48 can be formed for each program 22, 24 and 26 (but possibly then for all computers 10, 12, and 14 simultaneously), but can also be formed at least in part or additionally across programs, then with cross-program units 70 and 76. In the latter case, it is determined, for example, how often a function that is used everywhere, such as “copying”, is used in the programs 22, 24 and 26 in total.

The determination unit 70 and the allocation unit 76 can also be part of one of the

Computer 10, 12 14 or be present in all of these. The aforementioned units can also be embodied in a main computer (e.g. server).

A characteristic value can also record the typing speed, which many users can optimize by setting the button. If the keystroke on the keyboard 28 should be changeable, the allocation unit 76 acts on the keyboard 28 via the corresponding data connection and via the processor 16. To increase the typing speed, the keystroke is usually increased. If this does not lead to success, the keystroke can be lowered after a success check.

A keyboard unit with a key 80 with variable key pressure is shown in FIG. 2. The button 80 is mounted in a chamber 82 which is sealed by seals 84 and surrounds a cavity 86 in which a weakly or poorly compressible fluid is located, for example a selected hydraulic fluid. A return spring 88 is used to reset the button 80 from a depressed position, and the fluid also acts as a supplement. The chamber 86 has a tubular section 90 in which a piston 92 can move up and down, which increases and decreases the volume of the chamber and then that of the fluid the restoring force exerted compared to the key has been changed (The density-restoring force characteristic curve of the fluid must be designed in such a way that the restoring force increases when the fluid is compressed.) This piston is also guided in section 90 in a sealing manner. A suitably aligned permanent magnet 94 is attached to the piston to move it. A coil 96 wound around section 90 can, when excited by means of the magnetic field generated by it, attract or repel the permanent magnet 94 and thus move the piston.

If the allocation unit 76 acts on the keyboard in order to increase or decrease the keystroke on one or more keys 80, the coil 96 is excited accordingly by current supply. (A necessary alternating current does not necessarily have to be supplied by the computer 10, but can be supplied via a separate connection, the computer 10 then only provides the control.)

The keyboard 28 can be designed so that the pressure of all keys is increased and decreased simultaneously. The respective chambers 86 of the keys can then be in communication with one another, a single large piston (not shown) may also be sufficient. With the embodiment of a key unit shown in FIG. 2, the keyboard 28 is designed such that the key pressure of each key 80 can be set individually. For example, a user with a weak little finger can be offered a keyboard in which the external keys require less pressure to generate a key signal.

The user program 22 can also be designed for voice input via the microphone 29, as is the case with many word processing programs or can also capture image inputs via the scanner 31, that is, can integrate image files. The user program 24 can be a graphics program for evaluating such image inputs. In all of these cases, the processor 16 is used to evaluate the input signals, and only the signal content, ie the result of the evaluation, is used to determine the characteristic value. That is, if the user speaks "coupling", "copying" and "copying" once, this is interpreted as a triple command to copy something with good speech analysis. The same applies to picture elements. The images can be coded for this, e.g. how traffic signs look or designed in the manner of Braille etc.

Claims

claims

1. A method for assigning a reward or punishment or help with the operation of a user program (22, 24, 26), in particular a word processing program or graphics program, in which a

Keyboard (28) text characters and key combinations can be entered into a computer (10, 12, 14) or a computer system and / or via a mouse (30), a microphone (29) or an image reading device (31) signals for action on windows, window parts (34, 36, 40, 42, 44) and / or text or image field parts can be entered on a screen (32), and in the one

Determination unit (70) simply or repeatedly, depending on the input of a plurality of text characters and / or key combinations and / or mouse, voice or image signals, at least one characteristic value for the system operating capability of the person entering the text characters and / or key combinations and / or signals

- Using a count or estimate of the number and / or evaluation of the type of a) text characters and / or b) key combinations and / or c) speech or image signals and / or

- Determined on the basis of an evaluation of how many windows, window parts and / or switching signals were activated, the reward or punishment or help being allocated if the characteristic value exceeds and / or falls below a characteristic value limit.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that a reward or help after exceeding or falling below a first characteristic limit and one

Punishment or help after falling below or exceeding a second parameter limit.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a clock generator (18) specifies a time clock and for or in the determination unit (70)

Unit for measuring comprises the number of entered text characters per unit of time, which is formed by means of the time clock, and that the reward is allocated if the number of entered per unit of time Text character exceeds a limit, which is preferably different from one.

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a clock generator (18) specifies a time clock and the determination unit

- On the one hand, the frequency within a time interval formed by means of the clock cycle is determined, with which signals are input via the mouse (30) and / or the frequency with which signals are input via the microphone (29) and / or the frequency with which the image reading device (31) signals entered are determined

- and on the other hand, the frequency within the same time interval is determined, with which key combinations are entered, and or with which signals are input using the mouse and / or with which signals are input via the microphone, and - that the characteristic value is a function of these at least two frequencies, is in particular a difference or a ratio of these two frequencies.

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a characteristic value limit is adapted by means of a unit for adapting (72).

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that after the allocation of a reward, punishment or help, a characteristic value limit is adjusted.

7. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that a clock cycle is specified by means of a clock generator (18) and, after a predetermined number of time cycles has elapsed, without a reward, punishment or help having been allocated, a characteristic value limit is adjusted.

8. The method according to claim 1 or 2 with the characterizing feature of one of claims 5 -7, characterized in that the determining unit (70) determines how many different key combinations since the beginning of The procedure was entered and the characteristic value is formed from the number of key combinations used.

9. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the determining unit (70) determines how many different key combinations are entered within a time interval formed by a clock generator and the characteristic value is formed from the number of key combinations used within the time interval.

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that a

Reward is an increase in the number of defined keyboard shortcuts available to the person.

1 1. The method according to any one of claims 8 or 9, characterized in that there is a punishment or help in the absence of at least one previously used key combination, preferably one or the least used key combination, and that preferably this key combination is reactivated when an unused key combination is used one or more times.

12. The method according to claim 8, 9 or 10, characterized in that an aid, reward or punishment consists in a change in the amount available for the person of the possible assignments of key combinations to program functions, in particular in a change in the number of possible key combinations for certain

Program combinations.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that an aid or reward consists in the fact that different key combinations, each consisting of a first key on the one hand and secondly adjacent keys on the keyboard (28), are each assigned the same program function.

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that an aid or reward consists in the fact that different key combinations each consisting of a first key on the one hand and secondly on the keyboard by more than three key spacing keys are assigned the same program function.

15. The method according to any one of claims 8 or 9, characterized in that a reward or help consists in the elimination of a previously used key combination and in the release of at least one additional key combination, and that when the additional key combination is used one or more times, the key combination that has been omitted is reactivated.

16. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the determination unit determines how many different windows, window parts and / or text field symbols have been acted on with signals since the start of the implementation of the method and the characteristic value from the number of windows, window parts activated in total and / or circuit symbols is formed.

17. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the determining unit determines how many different windows, window parts and / or switching symbols were acted upon with signals within a time interval formed by a clock generator and the characteristic value from the number of those in the time interval as a whole activated windows, window parts and / or

Circuit symbols is formed.

18. The method according to any one of claims 16 or 17, characterized in that there is a reward or help in the elimination of a previously used window, window part and / or switching symbol and in the release of at least one additional window, window part and / or switching symbol, and that with single or multiple use of the additional window, window part and or the switching symbol, the dropped window, window part or switching symbol is reactivated.

19. The method according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that a reward, punishment and / or help consists in a change in the screen representation, the text character representation or an image field representation, preferably in an enlargement or reduction of the window, window parts and / or switching symbols taken space.

20. The method according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that an aid in a more detailed description consists in a comment flag to be activated by means of a mouse button on a switching symbol on the screen.

21. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that a toolbar is removed or added as a reward, punishment or help from the screen.

22. The method according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that by means of a first mode change input which can be made by the operator, preferably an input of a key combination, the activation of a switching symbol by means of the mouse or a voice input or image input, a return to the pre-assignment or the assignments Basic mode takes place and the state before the first mode change input is preferably restored by means of a second mode change input.

23. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the

Determination unit (70) determines the number of times since the start of the implementation of the method or in a time interval defined by a clock generator a switching symbol or a key or key combination for undoing a process after performing various actions, in particular after entering certain text characters and Text character combinations or mouse signals or mouse signal sequences, is pressed or entered, and that if this number for a specific action, the undo exceeds a limit value, the carrying out of this action is made more difficult or the possibility of carrying out this action is switched off.

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that if the specific action has so far been effected by pressing a key or a key combination, the help consists in increasing the number of keys required to effect the action.

25. The method according to claim 23 or 24, characterized in that if the specific action has so far been effected by a key combination, the aid consists in changing the key combination such that the keys are spaced further apart than before.

26. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that if previously the specific action is effected by pressing a key or a combination of keys, the help consists in providing a circuit symbol whose activation causes the action instead of pressing the key or the combination of keys.

27. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that if previously the specific action is effected by pressing a key or a key combination and can be effected by activating a switching symbol, the

Help is that only the switch symbol may be used to effect the action.

28. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a reward or help in activating additional functions of the

Word processing system and / or a punishment or help in deactivating additional functions of the word processing system.

29. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a reward or punishment consists in the fact that overtime hours are allocated or deducted to the inputting person on a working time account and / or bonus points are allocated or deducted on a bonus account, in particular a cash account.

30. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reward consists in the activation of an additional program, in particular a computer game or an Internet program, or the punishment in the blocking of a computer game or one

Internet program exists for a certain period of time.

31. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that similar rewards, punishments or help are simultaneously allocated in different user programs.

32. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a reward or punishment or help consists in a change in the key press necessary for typing a character on the keyboard and / or the gliding ability of the mouse or the one required for signal input

Mouse click.

33. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that several modes for different program operations are set, in particular for different users or different ones

Usage situations, wherein when a certain mode is called up by a certain user, the final state previously reached in the program operating history is preferably called up.

34. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that several rewards, aids or punishments are allocated in combination.

35. Computer, in particular personal computer, or computer system (FIG. 1) with a user program (22, 24, 26), in particular word processing program, in which the method according to one of claims 1 to 34 can be used, with at least one input unit such as a keyboard, a mouse, a microphone or an image reading unit and with a determining unit (70) for determining the system operating capability of a user, - the determining unit being designed for forming a characteristic value by means of counting or estimating or determining the type of data and / or signals input via the input unit , and with an allocation unit (76) for initiating a change in the active state of the computer or the computer system, in particular the user program.

36. Computer or computer system according to claim 35 with a program (26) for executing the method according to claim 31 with an additional program, in particular a computer game (24) or with an internet program and internet connection.

37. Computer or computer system according to claim 35 with a program for executing the method according to claim 32 with a keyboard with adjustable key pressure or a mouse with adjustable glide or adjustable mouse key pressure.

38. Electronic typewriter keyboard (28) with at least one key (80), in which the pressure required to generate a write signal is controllably variable.

39. The keyboard (28) of claim 38, wherein the pressure on a key of the

Pressure on another key is independently controllable changeable.

40. Computer mouse with at least one mouse button, in which the pressure required to generate a mouse signal is controllably changeable.

41. Computer or computer system according to claim 35 with a program for executing the method according to claim 5 with an input unit for inputting an adapted limit value or adapted limit values, this input unit preferably being designed as part of a keyboard.

42. Computer or computer system according to claim 35 with a program for executing the method according to claim 5 with a switch or a button, preferably a foot switch or a foot button, wherein a unit for adapting evaluates signals that are input via the switch, preferably the frequency the actuation of the switch or the button and / or the chronological course of the actuation.

43. Computer or computer system according to claim 42 with a program for executing the method according to claim 16, wherein the switch or the button controls a dictation player and the different modes correspond to different dictating persons.

44. Computer or computer system according to claim 35 with a program for executing the method according to claim 29, which is connected to a working time recording device.

45. Computer or computer system according to claim 35 or 44 with a program for executing the method according to claim 29, which is connected to a memory which is designed to keep a cash or bonus point account.

46. Computer or computer system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the determination unit examines processes in different time intervals on the basis of clocks generated by a clock generator.

7. Computer or computer system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a plurality of user programs (22, 24, 26), and that the allocation unit is designed such that it changes in at least two user programs (22, 24, 26 ) can effect at the same time.