WO2008023897A1

WO2008023897A1 - Method and system for interfacing using hot key

Info

Publication number: WO2008023897A1
Application number: PCT/KR2007/003884
Authority: WO
Inventors: Dong Gyu Choi
Original assignee: Dong Gyu Choi
Priority date: 2006-08-22
Filing date: 2007-08-14
Publication date: 2008-02-28

Abstract

Provided is a method for interfacing a key user. The method includes the steps of: storing a first key and an instruction address corresponding to the first key in a memory unit; comparing a key down duration of the first key pressed by a user with a set time; generating an interrupt signal when the key down duration of the first key satisfies the set time; and executing a direct to a specific menu/program/function for a shortcut key stroke data in response to generating the interrupt signal. The method for interfacing a key user and a system using the same can be provided in which a function of a shortcut key is flexibly activated depending on an application run by a user, thereby preventing misuse of the shortcut function.

Description

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR INTERFACING USING HOT

KEY

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates to a method for interfacing a key user and a system using the same in which a specific menu/program (e.g., a web browser)/function is driven as a direct and provided to a user when the user presses a specified shortcut key above a set time while performing tasks on an operating system (OS) or an application. Background Art

[2] If a user desires to access a specific service site while performing tasks on an operating system or an application, a conventional scheme is required to drive a web browser and to receive a network address of the service site from the user.

[3] Since such a conventional scheme drives the web browser in a different working environment from the operating system or the application, it degrades continuity of the task performed by the user on the operating system or the application.

[4] In addition, the conventional scheme requires the user to input the network address each time the user accesses the service site that is frequently accessed. This can be annoying to the user.

[5] To enhance such a conventional scheme, a keyboard equipped with a separate shortcut key capable of driving a web browser has been introduced. This allows a user to easily access a service site by pressing the shortcut key.

[6] However, since the keyboard equipped with the separate shortcut key is specially manufactured, it is not helpful for a user of a traditional keyboard to access a service site. Accordingly, the user of a traditional keyboard must still access the service site in a conventional way. Moreover, the keyboard equipped with the separate shortcut key is allowed to specify only one service site, and hence, needs to be equipped with a plurality of shortcut keys in order to specify a plurality of service sites. Thus, the keyboard equipped with the separate shortcut key is limited in providing a number of shortcut functions.

[7] Accordingly, there is an increasing need for a shortcut-key providing model for enabling a user to easily access service sites without affecting an existing use system for a computer input device while performing tasks on an operating system or an application.

Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem

[8] The present invention is directed to a method for interfacing a key user and a and a system using the same, which provide a shortcut function for enabling a user to access service sites, as well as executing a direct for a specific menu/function, without affecting an existing use system for an input device while performing tasks on an operating system or an application.

[9] For example, the present invention is directed to a method for interfacing a key user and a system using the same, which are capable of improving access convenience for a user by providing an environment in which the user is allowed to promptly access a service site, which may be frequently accessed by the user, and sub-sites of the service site by pressing a single key or a plurality of keys and to conveniently execute a desired direct just by pressing a key for a sufficient key down duration.

[10] Also, the present invention is directed to a method for interfacing a key user and a system using the same, which are capable of preventing misuse of a shortcut function by allowing a function of a shortcut key to be flexibly activated depending on an application run by a user for tasks. Technical Solution

[11] One aspect of the present invention provides a method for interfacing a key user, the method comprising the steps of: storing a first key, an interrupt time, and a first address to correspond to one another in a memory unit; measuring a key down duration of the first key pressed by a user; generating an interrupt signal when the measured key down duration satisfies the interrupt time corresponding to the first key; identifying the first address corresponding to the first key from the memory unit upon the generation of the interrupt signal; and driving a web browser to access the first identified address and providing the web browser to the user.

[12] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for interfacing a key user, the method comprising the steps of: storing a first key, an interrupt time, and a first address to correspond to one another in a memory unit; measuring a key down duration of the first key when a user selects a character string and presses the first key; generating an interrupt signal when the measured key down duration satisfies the interrupt time corresponding to the first key; identifying the first address corresponding to the first key from the memory unit upon the generation of the interrupt signal; and driving a web browser to access the first identified address and to have a search box into which a keyword associated with the character string is input, and providing the web browser to the user.

[13] Still another aspect of the present invention provides a method for interfacing a key user, the method comprising the steps of: storing keys and corresponding instructions in a memory unit; making a first determination as to whether a key down of a second key occurs after an interrupt generation time elapses; generating an interrupt signal when the key down of a second key occurs after the interrupt generation time elapses; making a second determination as to whether a key down duration of the second key satisfies a direct generation time; identifying an instruction corresponding to the second key from the memory unit when the key down duration of the second key satisfies the direct generation time; and driving a direct corresponding to the identified instruction.

[14] Still another aspect of the present invention provides a method for interfacing a key user, the method comprising the steps of: storing a second key and an instruction corresponding to the second key in a memory unit; checking the key down of the second key; identifying an instruction corresponding to the second key from the memory unit when the key down duration of the second key satisfies a direct generation time; and driving a direct corresponding to the identified instruction.

Advantageous Effects

[15] The present invention can provide a method for interfacing a key user and a system using the same in which a function of a shortcut key is flexibly activated depending on an application run by a user for tasks, thereby preventing misuse of the shortcut function.

Brief Description of the Drawings [16] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a web site channel providing system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[17] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a memory unit according to the present invention;

[18] FIG. 3 illustrates generation of a shortcut function and a combined shortcut function according to the present invention; [19] FIG. 4 illustrates a web browser in which a keyword associated with a selected character string is input in an example of a shortcut function according to the present invention; [20] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for providing a web site channel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; [21] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[22] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a memory unit according to the present invention;

[23] FIG. 8 illustrates generation of a shortcut function according to the present invention; and [24] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for interfacing a key user according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention [25] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail. However, the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments disclosed below, but can be implemented in various types. Therefore, the present exemplary embodiments are provided for complete disclosure of the present invention and to fully inform the scope of the present invention to those ordinarily skilled in the art.

[26] A method for interfacing a key user and a system using the same according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will first be described.

[27] As used in the present specification, a 'shortcut key' may refer to a key for invoking a frequently used function through simple key down when any instruction is to be input. Operating systems or applications support, for example, shortcut keys, such as [Ctrl] + [C] for a 'copy function' [Ctrl] + [X] for a 'cut function' and [Ctrl] + [V] for a 'paste function'.

[28] In particular, when a user presses a specific key (or a key combination) for a set time while performing any task on an operating system or an application, i.e., when key down duration of the key (or the key combination) satisfies the set time, a web browser to access an address previously assigned to the key is provided to the user. Thus, the present invention allows a user to access a specific service site just by pressing a specific key while performing tasks on an operating system or an application, thus addressing annoyance with a conventional accessing scheme in which the user needs to first drive a web browser and then enter a desired address.

[29] In addition, the shortcut function of the present invention is allowed to block the web browser from accessing a specified address depending on applications run by the user, thus preventing misuse of the shortcut function. For example, when a user plays a game provided by a full-screen game application, the shortcut function according to the present invention is automatically disabled, and thus, the web browser can be prevented from being unintentionally driven and provided when the user presses any key needed for playing the game.

[30] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a web site channel providing system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[31] The system 100 may include a memory unit 110, an interface unit 120, and a web browser driving unit 130.

[32] The system 100 drives a web browser to access a prescribed address when a user presses a key or a key combination while performing tasks on an operating system (OS) or an application, which makes it possible for the user to rapidly access a service site.

[33] In particular, the system 100 of the present invention can use an independent key and any key (an independent key + a secondary key) as a shortcut key, which makes it possible for the user to access sub-sites of a specific service site, and can easily increase the number of high-intuition shortcut sites based on the key combination.

[34] Here, the independent key is any key of a keyboard, other than secondary keys

(described below), which does not affect an existing shortcut-key system when its shortcut function is activated by an independent stroke that is not combined with another key while an operating system or an application other than a 'game' is being run.

[35] The secondary key assists the independent key in performing a shortcut function, and has no function activated by its stroke solely. The secondary key may affect a combined key stroke such as [Ctrl + C] on an editor program (e.g., an MS word program available from Microsoft) when its shortcut function is activated by continued key down.

[36] For example, the system 100 can drive a web browser to identify a service site to access from the key down of a first key (an independent key) that is first recognized and to access a sub-site of the service site from the key down of a second key (a secondary key + the independent key) that is subsequently recognized.

[37] In the system 100, the combination of the first key and the second key may correspond to a different site from the first key that is first recognized, which makes it possible to increase the number of accessible sites, including the sub-sites. For example, the system 100 can recognize 'Sayclub.com' from the key down of a first key 'S' above a set duration and 'SoriBada.com' from the subsequent key down of the second key 'B'.

[38] In the present specification, the key combination has been illustrated as being a combination of an independent key (early) and any key (independent key/secondary key; subsequent), and this is intended not to affect an existing shortcut-key system consisting of a secondary key (early) and an independent key (subsequent).

[39] First, the memory unit 110 stores a first key, an interrupt time, and a first address to correspond to one another. The first address according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may be a main network address of a specific service site, and the first key may be any key of a keyboard that is assigned a key stroke (symbol) allowing for instinctively identifying the service site. This correspondence of the first key to the first address may be previously specified by an operator of the system or the user and stored in the memory unit 110.

[40] The interrupt time is a time for the system to recognize that the key down by the user is not intended to simply input the key stroke assigned to the key, i.e., a time for the user to necessarily press the key to use it as a shortcut key. For example, in FIG. 3, the interrupt time is set to 0.5 seconds ("sees"), and when the user presses any key for 0.5 sees or more, the system 100 of the present invention can perform any shortcut key function instead of an original key stroke assigned to the key. [41] The memory unit 110 may also store a second key and a second address corresponding to the second key. The second address may be a sub-address in the first address, and guides the web browser to a corresponding sub-site in the service site.

[42] In other words, the memory unit 110 may store the main network address of a specific service site to correspond to the first key, and the sub-network address of the sub-site in the service site to correspond to a combination of the first key and the second key.

[43] In other exemplary embodiments, the memory unit 110 may store an address of a highly associated service site to correspond to a combination of the first and second keys in consideration of a combination of key strokes (symbols) resulting from the combination of the first and second keys, in addition to the service site corresponding to the first key.

[44] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a memory unit according to the present invention.

[45] The memory unit 110 may store addresses corresponding to keys with respect to respective service sites. The keys include first keys as independent keys and second keys as any keys (independent key/secondary key). The addresses may include main network addresses and sub-network addresses corresponding to the keys. The memory unit 110 may store an interrupt time set corresponding to the first key. In FIG. 2, the interrupt time corresponding to the first key is set to '0.5 sees'.

[46] In the memory unit 110 of FIG. 2, a first address 'A-search.com' corresponding to a first key 'A' and a second address 'A-search.com/dictionary/' corresponding to a second key 'D' are stored for a service site 'A search'.

[47] When the key down duration of the key 'A' is above the interrupt time '0.5 sees' the system 100 of the present invention may provide an environment in which a shortcut key function is activated so that a web browser accessing the main network address 'A- search.com' associated with the key 'A' is provided to the user.

[48] When the user continuously presses the key 'A' and simultaneously presses a key 'D' the system 100 provides an environment in which the web browser driven by the key down of the key combination 'A + D' accesses 'A-search.com/dictionary/' that is the sub-network address of the service site 'A-search'.

[49] In the memory unit 110 of FIG. 2, a first address 'C-music.com' corresponding to a first key 'C and a second address 'C-music.com/mall/' corresponding to a second key 'M' are stored for a service site 'C- music'.

[50] When the key down duration of the key C is above the interrupt time '0.5 sees' the system 100 of the present invention may provide an environment in which the web browser key accesses the main network address 'C-music.com' of the service site 'C- music' and in response to the key down duration of the key 'C + M' the system 100 of the present invention may provide an environment in which the web browser key accesses the sub-network address 'C-music.com/mall/'of the service site 'C-music'.

[51] In the above exemplary embodiment, the activation time of the shortcut key function has been illustrated as being defined as a time for the key down duration of the key to satisfy the set interrupt time. However, it will be easily appreciated that in the present invention, the activation time of the shortcut key function may be defined in several ways.

[52] In one example, the activation time of the shortcut key function may be determined based on a number of times the key stroke is repeatedly received according to a predetermined time setting on the operating system, instead of measuring the key down duration.

[53] For example, the operating system regards continued key down of the key as the user repeatedly pressing the key and transmits a key stroke signal, and in the present invention, the key down may be determined to be continued for a predetermined time or more when the key stroke signal is repeatedly input above a predetermined number of time, and the corresponding time may be determined as the activation time of the shortcut key function.

[54] Although in the present exemplary embodiment, the keys have been described as being keys of the keyboard of the computer for convenience of illustration, they may be keys of a keypad of a mobile terminal, left and right click buttons of a computer mouse, and the like.

[55] Referring again to FIG. 1, the interface unit 120 measures the key down duration of the first key pressed by the user. That is, when a key down time of the first key is KD and a key up time of the key is KU, the interface unit 120 measures a period of time between the key down time KD and the key up time KU.

[56] The web browser driving unit 130 generates an interrupt signal when the measured key down duration satisfies the interrupt time corresponding to the first key. Here, the interrupt signal allows the user to access a specific service site without entering the key stroke (symbol) assigned to the first key. For example, when the key down (KD) of the first key assigned a letter 'A' is kept in an operation system or an application, the first input of 'A' and the operation system are responsible for repetitive input of 'A' after a set time (Typematic Delay) elapses. When the interrupt signal is generated, the system 100 of the present invention activates a shortcut function to access a specific service site without requiring the user to repeatedly input the letter 'A' even though the first key is kept in the key down state.

[57] The interrupt signal may be generated when the first key (or the second key) is pressed by the user and a key down state is kept above the set interrupt time. That is, when the user presses a key specified as a shortcut key above the interrupt time, the system 100 generates an interrupt signal to invalidate automatic repetitive input of an original key stroke assigned to the key.

[58] Thus, the web browser driving unit 130 serves to generate the interrupt signal when the user continuously presses a prescribed key above the interrupt time to access a specific service site while performing any task on the operating system or an application.

[59] The web browser driving unit 130 identifies the first address corresponding to the first key from the memory unit 110 upon the generation of the interrupt signal. That is, the web browser driving unit 130 checks that the first key is continuously pressed above the set interrupt time, and controls the first key to act as the shortcut key. The interrupt time may be flexibly set by the operator of the system, in which the operator may set the interrupt time as a minimum time to determine whether the user desires to enter a key stroke (symbol) assigned to the key or to drive the web browser by activating the shortcut key function.

[60] For example, it is assumed that the interrupt time is set to 0.5 sees by the operator and the user presses a first key assigned 'A' to enter a letter 'A' If the key down duration of the first key is less than 0.5 sees, the web browser driving unit 130 may determine that the key down of the user is intended to input the letter 'A' and may control perform a related process. On the other hand, when the key down duration of the first key is above 0.5 sees, the web browser driving unit 130 determines that the key down is intended to drive the web browser, identifies the address 'A-search.com' corresponding to the first key from the memory unit 110, and cancels 'A' input at the key down time of the first key.

[61] Also, the web browser driving unit 130 drives the web browser to access the first address identified and provides the web browser to the user. That is, the web browser driving unit 130 allows the user to access the service site at the first address previously specified, upon the key down of the first key.

[62] In the above example in which the key down duration of the first key 'A' satisfies the set interrupt time (0.5 sec), the web browser driving unit 130 may drive the web browser to access the first address 'A-search.com' identified from the memory unit 110.

[63] If any key (independent key/secondary key), the second key, is pressed while the interrupt signal associated with the first key is kept, the web browser driving unit 130 may drive the web browser to access the second address. That is, when the user presses a combination of the first key and the second key, the web browser driving unit 130 identifies the second address that is a sub-network address in the main network address from the memory unit 110 and induces the user to access the second identified address.

[64] In the above example, when the user presses the second key 'D' while pressing the first key 'A' the web browser driving unit 130 may drive the web browser to access the second address (A-search.com/dictionary/) associated with the second key, not the first address associated with the first key and provide the web browser to the user.

[65] Thus, the present invention allows the user to directly access a main page of a specific service site, as well as a sub-page in the service site, just by pressing a specified shortcut key.

[66] In another example, the second address may not be a sub-network address in the network address. The web browser driving unit 130 can greatly increase the number of accessible web sites through the shortcut function according to the present invention.

[67] While the present exemplary embodiment has illustrated that the web browser is driven to access the second address when the user presses the second key as any key (independent key/secondary key) while pressing the first key, the web browser may be driven to access the second address when the user simultaneously presses the first key and the second key. In addition, where two separate addresses are set for a combination of two specific keys based on a key recognition order, any of the two addresses may be selected by the system operator or the user.

[68] When the key down duration of the first key satisfies the set interrupt time m but the second key is pressed before the key up of the first key occurs, the system 100 may drive the web browser to access the second address, instead of accessing the first address. To this end, the system 100 allows the web browser to be driven in real time at the key down time of the second key, so that the web browser is controlled by the interrupt signal associated with the key down of the second key.

[69] With respect to an external process of activating the shortcut key function according to the present invention when a specific key is pressed for 'm' seconds, an internal technique method may include (1) disabling a time check module function when an elapsing-time check module causes KU after the KD occurs, and (2) disabling the time check module function when a module for checking a number of time the stroke is repeatedly generated without the KU after the KD occurs causes the KU.

[70] Since the case (1) may be illustrated as described previously, the case (2) will be described.

[71] In Microsoft windows, automatic repetitive input is initiated by the key down duration check module after a time corresponding to "Typematic Delay" elapses.

[72] A number of times a key stroke is generated subsequent to an initial key stroke is given by:

[73] 'x'=TypematicRate "k ('m'-TypematicDelay)

[74] where 'm' = TypematicDelay + 'xVTypematicRate, and

[75] TypematicRate value: 6-30 (for the Microsoft window)

[76] Using this equation, the same behavior as a user form can be performed by simply specifying a shortcut function activation time reference with an automatic repetitive input signal generated after the initial stroke without a time check module of an ap- plication stage. For example, the interrupt time may be set on a setup menu of a control panel supported by the OS and may be selected from 0.25 sees, 0.5 sees, 0.75 sees, and 1 sec for the Microsoft windows.

[77] FIG. 3 illustrates generation of a shortcut function and a combined shortcut function according to the present invention.

[78] As described above, the interrupt signal is defined as a signal for invalidating repetitive input of the key stroke (symbol) assigned to the key, and the shortcut key function is activated in the system 100 after the interrupt signal is generated.

[79] It can be seen that when any key is pressed on a general OS environment, the key stroke (symbol) assigned to the key is repeatedly input at periodic time intervals (e.g., 0.1 sees). It will be apparent that such repetitive input may be performed even when the key down duration does not satisfy the interrupt time, and the periodic input of such a key stroke (symbol) is invalidated by the interrupt signal.

[80] For convenience of illustration, however, the interrupt signal in the present specification is assumed to be generated to activate the shortcut key function, instead of activating a conventional key stroke (symbol) input function, with respect to any key after the key down duration satisfies the interrupt time.

[81] In FIG. 3, a time when 0.5 sees elapses after the key down KD of the first key 'A' occurs is set as the interrupt time m.

[82] In FIG. 3, the interrupt signal is generated after the key down duration of the first key 'A' satisfies the interrupt time of 0.5 sees.

[83] First, in FIG. 3(i), the system 100 may generate a result value of "shortcut function activation/'A' stroke cancel" at a time when the key down duration of the first key 'A' satisfies the set interrupt time m. That is, as the key down duration satisfies the set time m, the system 100 cancels input of the key stroke (symbol), the letter A, originally assigned to the first key 'A' and activates the shortcut function. Additionally, the system 100 activates the shortcut function according to the generated result value and drives the web browser to access the first address (A-search.com) corresponding to the first key 'A' when the key up KU of the first key 'A' occurs, i.e., when the key down of the first key is released.

[84] A combination shortcut in which the second key is pressed by the user while the interrupt signal associated with the first key is continuously generated will be described.

[85] In FIG. 3(ii), the key down of the second key 'D' occurs before the interrupt time m at a state in which the key down of the first key 'A' occurs but the key down duration does not pass the set interrupt time m. In this case, the system 100 generates a result value of "combined shortcut function activation/'A' stroke cancel" at a time when the key down of the second key 'D' occurs. That is, the system 100 cancels input of the key stroke (symbol), the letter A, originally assigned to the first key 'A' and activates the combined shortcut function as the key down of the first key 'A' and the second key 'D' occurs. In addition, the system 100 activates the combined shortcut function according to the generated result value and drives the web browser to access the second address (A-search.com/dictionary/) corresponding to a combination of the first key 'A' and the second key 'D' at a time when the key up KU of the first key 'A' occurs.

[86] In FIG. 3(iii), the key down of the second key 'D' occurs after the interrupt time m at a state in which the key down of the first key 'A' occurs and the key down duration passes the set interrupt time m. In this case, the system 100 generates a result value of "shortcut function activation/'A' stroke cancel" at a time when the key down duration of the first key 'A' satisfies the interrupt time m. The system 100 also generates a result value of "combined shortcut function activation/shortcut function cancel" at a time when the key down of the second key 'D' occurs. That is, the system 100 sequentially cancels input of the key stroke (symbol), the letter A, and the independent shortcut function by the first key, and generates only the combined shortcut function as the result value as the key down of the first key 'A' and the second key 'D' occurs. In addition, the system 100 activates the combined shortcut function according to the generated result value and drives the web browser to access the second address (A-search.com/dictionary/) corresponding to a combination of the first key 'A' and the second key 'D' at a time when the key down of the second key 'D' occurs.

[87] In other exemplary embodiments, where an address, e.g., AD-money.com, corresponding to a combination of the first key 'A' and the second key 'D' is set, the system 100 may drive the web browser to access the address, AD-money.com, according to the combination of the first key and the second key.

[88] An example in which the user selects a character string while performing any task on an operating system or an application and a shortcut (combined shortcut) function is activated will now be described with reference to FIG. 4.

[89] FIG. 4 illustrates a web browser in which a keyword associated with a selected character string is input in an example of a shortcut function according to the present invention.

[90] The interface unit 120 measures a key down duration of the first key when the user presses the first key together with selection of the character string. For example, the user may specify a character string (a combination of syllables, words, phrases and the like) to be searched, as a block, and simultaneously press the first key while performing tasks on an operating system or an application. In this case, the interface unit 120 provides an environment for determining whether the key down duration of the first key satisfies the interrupt time by measuring the key down duration of the first key. [91] The web browser driving unit 130 generates an interrupt signal for invalidating continued input of the first key stroke (symbol) assigned to the key after the key down duration satisfies the interrupt time.

[92] In FIG. 4(i), a character string of 'Offside penalty' in any text document is designated as a block by the user. The user may press the first key 'A' for a key down duration satisfying the set interrupt time together with the selection of the character string. In such an environment, the web browser driving unit 130 generates an interrupt signal for invalidating input of the key stroke A assigned to the first key 'A' and activating the shortcut key function associated with the first key 'A'.

[93] The web browser driving unit 130 may identify an address corresponding to the first key from the memory unit 110 upon the generation of the interrupt signal. To this end, the memory unit 110 stores a main network address of the service site to correspond to a key specified as the first key among keys of the keyboard.

[94] In the above example, as the key down duration of the first key 'A' satisfies the set interrupt time and the key down of the first key 'A' is released, the web browser driving unit 130 may identify the address 'A-search.com' from the memory unit 110 of FIG. 2.

[95] The web browser driving unit 130 may also drive the web browser to access the identified address and simultaneously to have a search box into which a keyword having the same content associated with the character string is input. The keyword may mean a search keyword determined to have an identifiable meaning among a syllable, a word, and a phrase in the character string.

[96] If the selected character string is any text produced by the editor program, it may be disadvantageously overwritten to a key stroke (symbol) assigned to a specific key and input even though the user presses the specific key to activate the shortcut search function with respect to the selected character string. To solve this problem, if the key down duration of the key satisfies the interrupt time, the system 100 of the present invention can activate the shortcut key function and simultaneously cause the overwritten and input character string to be returned to a previous state.

[97] The independent key may not include a space bar and various symbols upon using an editor program. This is intended to always ensure repetitive input of commonly used key strokes (symbols) and to prevent an activation error for the shortcut key function.

[98] The web browser driving unit 130 can interrupt input of the initial assigned key stroke in response to the key down (KD) of a specific key only when a character string is selected and can allow input of the key stroke assigned to the key only in response to the key up (KU) of the key before the shortcut function is activated, with the purpose of increasing visual distinction and continuity for "the shortcut search process by selection of a character string" in using an editor program.

[99] Accordingly, the system 100 can generate the interrupt signal while maintaining visual distinction without canceling a character string selected by continued key down of a specific key and replacing with the assigned key stroke value of the specific key when the user intends to execute "the shortcut search by selection of a character string" in using an editor program, based on the fact that the key down and the key up of the key occur at substantially the same time in a traditional task using a text editor. Furthermore, the system 100 can properly control the process of generating the interrupt signal so that the user does not feel inconvenienced even in performing a traditional task, not the shortcut function.

[100] In FIG. 4(i), 'Offside' having an identifiable meaning in a character string 'Offside penalty' specified as the block is determined as a keyword. The web browser driving unit 130 may drive the web browser to access the identified address 'A-search.com' and to have a search box into which the determined keyword, 'Offside', is input automatically, and provide the web browser to the user.

[101] The system 100 of the present invention may allow a search task based on the automatically input keyword to be performed at the same time that the user accesses the web browser having the search box into which the keyword associated with the character string is automatically input. To this end, the system 100 may further comprise a search unit 140. The search unit 140 searches for content associated with the keyword input to the search box of the web browser (e.g., a keyword input window of a search site) from a predetermined database (DB) and exposes the search result to the user.

[102] In FIG. 4(ii), the search based on the keyword 'Offside' is performed and the search results of 'the offside refers to' and 'the offside issue' are displayed on the driven web browser.

[103] In another example, if the key down of the second key occurs after the key down of the first key occurs and before a key up signal is generated, the web browser driving unit 130 drives a sub-web browser to access the second address in the first address and simultaneously to have a search box into which the keyword associated with the character string is input, and provides the web browser to the user.

[104] In the above example, the web browser driving unit 130 may identify the second address 'A-search.com/dictionary/' from the memory unit 110 of FIG. 2 in response to the key down of the first key 'A' and the second key 'D'. Also, the web browser driving unit 130 may drive a sub-web browser to access the second identified address 'A- search.com/dictionary/' and to have a search box into which the determined 'offside' is automatically input, and provide the sub-web browser to the user.

[105] In other exemplary embodiments of the present invention, when the key down of the first key occurs and is kept above a set time at a state in which any word is input into an Internet address box or a text box (e.g., a tool bar) of the browser, the system 100 allows a search task based on the word input into the Internet address box or the text box to be performed at a previously specified service site, and switches to a page corresponding to the search result.

[106] Thus, the present invention can provide an environment in which when any word is input to the Internet address box or the text box, the search result of an intended searched site associated with the input word is promptly provided to the user by utilizing the shortcut key function without performing a normal procedure of accessing the searched site and subsequently pressing a search button. This can improve equivalent accessibility to several searched sites, thereby greatly improving user convenience, in light of competition of main portals desiring to monopolize a shortcut search route by installing a tool bar.

[107] In the present specification, the web browser has been illustrated as being driven to access a specific address and provided to the user just by pressing the shortcut key. However, the shortcut function activated by the continuous key down of the specific key of the present invention may rather obstruct normal performance of any applicatio n. To prevent the obstruction, the system 100 of the present invention allows access of the web browser to the set address to automatically stop depending on applications run by the user, so that the shortcut function is not misused. That is, the system 100 may have a monopoly mode list, and checks whether an application currently run by the user is included in the monopoly mode list and if it is included in the monopoly mode list, stop the shortcut function temporarily. Here, a monopoly mode application may be an application needing no shortcut function, e.g., a game application using a full screen.

[108] The system 100 uses a handle of the windows to check whether the run application uses the full screen. Here, the handle of the windows has windows information. For example, the handle may refer to a function of a language C++ for recognizing a state of a passage for controlling the windows.

[109] For example, the system 100 may call for the function of the language C++:

[110] HANDLE Window = FindWindow, and

[111] IsFullMode (Window) having a window as a variable, and check whether the run application is in a full screen state based on a response 'true /false'.

[112] Thus, according to the present invention, a determination can be simply made as to whether the run application is a monopoly mode application, i.e., an application using a full screen, based on the window handle.

[113] The present invention can also provide the shortcut function allowing the user to access a service site without affecting a use system for an existing input device while using an operating system or an application.

[114] The present invention can also allow the user to promptly access a service site, which may be frequently accessed, and sub-sites of the service site through the key down of a single key or a plurality of keys.

[115] The present invention can also provide the shortcut function flexibly activated depending on an application run by the user, so that the shortcut function is not misused.

[116] A task flow of the system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail.

[117] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for interfacing a key user according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[118] The method for interfacing a key user according to the present exemplary embodiment may be performed by the above system 100.

[119] First, the system 100 stores selected keys, interrupt times, and addresses to correspond to one another in the memory unit 110 (S510). In step S510, a first address corresponding to a first key as an independent key, and a second address corresponding to a second key as any key (including an independent key and a secondary key) are stored. As described above, the first address is a main network address of any service site, and the second address is a sub-network address of a sub-site in the service site. In another exemplary embodiment, the second address may be a combined address which corresponds to a combination of the first key and the second key.

[120] Such keys and addresses corresponding to the keys may be predetermined by a user or by an operator of the system and stored in the memory unit 110 (See FIG. 2).

[121] The interrupt time is a time for the system to recognize that a key down by the user does not simply input a key stroke assigned to the key, i.e., a time for a user to necessarily press to use it as a shortcut key. For example, in FIG. 3, the interrupt time is set to 0.5 sees, and when the user continuously presses any key for 0.5 sees or more, the system 100 of the present invention can perform any shortcut key function instead of a key stroke originally assigned to the key.

[122] The system 100 measures a key down duration of the key pressed by the user

(S520). In step S520, the first key is pressed by the user and the interface unit 120 measures the key down duration.

[123] The system 100 then generates an interrupt signal when the measured key down duration satisfies the interrupt time corresponding to the first key. (S530). That is, in step S530, when a time for the user to continuously press the first key satisfies the set interrupt time, the interrupt signal is generated. The interrupt signal invalidates automatic repetitive input of the key stroke (symbol) originally assigned to the key.

[124] In step S530, the system 100 may generate an interrupt signal associated with the second key when the second key is pressed while the interrupt signal associated with the first key is kept. That is, the system 100 generates an interrupt signal associated with activation of the shortcut function through a combination of the first key and the second key, not the first key solely, at the state in which the second key is pressed.

[125] Also, the system 100 identifies an address corresponding to the key from the memory unit 110 upon generating the interrupt signal (S540). That is, in step S540, input of the key stroke (symbol) assigned to the first key is invalidated by the interrupt signal, and the first address corresponding to the first key is identified with the activation of the shortcut key function.

[126] In step S540, given that the set interrupt time is a time when m elapses from the key down time KD, the system 100 determines whether the key up time KU is after the set m. If it is determined that the key up occurs after m, the system recognizes that shortcut function is activated and identifies the first address corresponding to the first key from the memory unit 110. If the duration of the interrupt signal ends prior to the set time m, i.e., if the key up occurs before the m, the system 100 does not respond the key stroke (symbol), e.g., a letter 'A' assigned to the first key, which is previously input at the initial key down time KD.

[127] In step S540, the system 100 may also identify the second address corresponding to a combination of the first key and the second key from the memory unit 110 when the second key is pressed after (or at the same time that) the first key is pressed.

[128] Subsequently, the system 100 drives the web browser to access the identified address and provides the web browser to the user (S550). In step S550, the web browser is driven to access the first address identified by the key down of the first key or to access the second address identified by the key down of the first key and the second key. That is, the system 100 allows the user to access a service site at a specific address by pressing a specified independent key or any key (e.g., independent key + independent key/secondary key).

[129] Thus, the present invention allows the user to promptly access the service site by pressing a key associated with the specified shortcut key, even while performing any task on an OS or an application task.

[130] In other exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the system 100 may measure the key down duration of the first key when the user presses the first key together with selecting a character string, and generate the interrupt signal if the measured key down duration satisfies a predetermined interrupt time. In this case, the system 100 may identify an address corresponding to the pressed key, drive the web browser to access the identified address and to have a search box into which a keyword associated with the character string is automatically input, and provide the web browser to the user. The system 100 may then expose the search result obtained in response to the input keyword to the user.

[131] The present invention can allow for rapidly accessing the service site and performing automatic search based on a selected character string, thus maximizing user convenience.

[132] The system 100 of the present invention also allows access of the web browser to the set address to automatically stop depending on applications used by the user, so that the shortcut function is not misused. That is, the system 100 can have a monopoly mode list, check whether an application currently run by the user is included in the monopoly mode list, and if it is included, stop the shortcut function temporarily.

[133] Thus, the present invention can also provide the shortcut function allowing the user to access a service site without affecting a use system for an existing input device while using an operating system or an application.

[134] The present invention can also allow the user to promptly access a service site, which is frequently accessed, and sub-sites of the service site through the key down of a single key or a plurality of keys.

[135] The present invention can also provide the shortcut function flexibly activated depending on an application run by the user, so that the shortcut function is not misused.

[136] A method for interfacing a key user and a system using the method according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[137] According to the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a key user interfacing scheme of the present invention performs a prescribed control operation on a specific key when a user presses the key above a set time (a direct generation time) while performing any task on an operating system or an application. That is, when the key down duration is kept over the direct generation time, the system of the present invention drives a specified direct, so that a desired control operation is performed just by one key pressing.

[138] In the present invention, when there is a key ("the second key") which is pressed after a time ("interrupt generation time") set from the key up or key down of an earlier pressed key ("the first key") elapses, the system generates the interrupt signal in response to the key down of the second key.

[139] Here, the interrupt signal is related to invalidating of automatic repetitive input of the key stroke assigned to the second pressed key. That is, when the key down of the second key occurs before the interrupt generation time elapses, the system of the present invention determines the key down of the second key to be a 'Continuous stroke' and controls to perform normal typing processing. On the other hand, if the key down of the second key occurs after the interrupt generation time elapses, the system identifies the key down of the second key to be a 'discontinuous stroke' generates an interrupt signal, provisionally defers displaying the key stroke assigned to the second key, and invalidates displaying repetitive input of the key stroke.

[140] The system of the present invention selectively allows the key stroke assigned to the second key to be displayed or the direct to be driven depending on whether the key down duration of the second key satisfies the direct generation time after the interrupt signal is generated.

[141] Accordingly, the present invention allows the user to drive a specific direct just by pressing a specific key while performing tasks on an operating system or an application, thus overcoming conventional annoyance caused by driving the direct by a separate operation from an existing task.

[142] The present invention can suppress visual aversion provided to the user by preventing the key stroke assigned to the key from being displayed on a screen prior to driving the direct when the user presses a key with the intention of implementing control operation.

[143] The present invention allows the shortcut function to stop performing a specified direct depending on the application run by the user, so that the shortcut function is not misused. For example, when the user plays a game on a full screen provided by a game application, the shortcut function is automatically disabled, so that the direct is prevented from being unintentionally driven as the user presses any key needed for playing the game.

[144] The following description assumes that the system of the present invention is implemented under an environment in which the user uses a keyboard for a computer terminal such as a notebook and a personal computer (PC), for convenience of illustration. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be implemented by using a virtual keyboard. The virtual keyboard is projected onto any task space with a laser and a user recognizes keys to input by pressing the projected virtual keyboard with his/her hands.

[145] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating the system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[146] The system 200 may include a memory unit 210, a first determination unit 220, a second determination unit 220, and a driving control unit 240.

[147] The memory unit 210 stores keys and corresponding instructions. That is, the memory unit 210 stores an instruction for driving the direct to correspond to the keys.

[148] Examples of the instruction may include an instruction related to execution of a specified program installed in a client terminal of the user, an instruction related to opening of a specified folder retained in the client terminal, and an instruction related to execution of a specified file retained in the client terminal.

[149] The first determination unit 220 makes a first determination as to whether the key down of the second key occurs after the interrupt generation time elapses from the key up or key down of the first key. That is, the first determination unit 220 checks a time elapsing from the key up or down of the last pressed key (the first key) to the key down of the second key and determines whether the checked time is greater or smaller than the set interrupt generation time. In this case, the first determination unit 220 sets the key up time or a key down time of the first key to '0' and checks the time until the key down of the second key time occurs.

[150] When the first determination result shows that the key down of the second key occurs after the interrupt generation time, i.e., that the key down of the second key is a discontinuous stroke, the first determination unit 220 generates an interrupt signal. As described above, the interrupt generation time may be set to a time needed to recognize that the key down of the second key by the user is intended to activate the direct function instead of simply inputting the key stroke assigned to the second key. In the present invention, the interrupt generation time may be defined as a time interval set from the key up or key down of the first key occurring prior to the second key.

[151] That is, the first determination unit 220 recognizes that the user may desire to utilize the second key as a shortcut key when the key down of the second key occurs after the interrupt generation time, and invalidates displaying input of the key stroke previously assigned to the second key and automatic repetitive input of the key stroke.

[152] Also, the first determination unit 220 may control to store the key value of the key stroke assigned to the second key in a message queue 225 upon the generation of the interrupt signal. That is, the first determination unit 220 retains key stroke information associated with the second key in the message queue 225 for the case where the key down of the second key is determined to be normal typing based on the second determination result from the second determination unit 230.

[153] On the other hand, if the first determination result shows that the key down of the second key occurs before the interrupt generation time, the first determination unit 220 displays the key stroke assigned to the second key. That is, when the key down of the second key occurs before the interrupt generation time elapses, the first determination unit 220 determines the key down of the second key to be a continuous stroke and controls to perform normal typing processing.

[154] The second determination unit 230 performs a second determination as to whether the key down duration of the second key satisfies the direct generation time. That is, the second determination unit 230 determines whether the key down duration of the second key determined to be a discontinuous stroke in the first determination satisfies the previously set direct generation time.

[155] When the second determination result shows that the key down duration of the second key satisfies the direct generation time, the second determination unit 230 identifies the instruction corresponding to the second key from the memory unit 210. [156] On the other hand, when the second determination result shows that the key down duration of the second key does not satisfy the direct generation time and when the key up of the second key occurs, the second determination unit 230 controls to display the key stroke assigned to the second key, which is based on the key value stored in the message queue 225 by the driving control unit 240 that will be described below.

[157] That is, the second determination unit 230 allows the direct or general typing processing to be selectively performed depending on whether the key down duration of the second key satisfies the direct generation time.

[158] When the key up of the second key occurs before the direct generation time is satisfied, the driving control unit 240 displays the key stroke assigned to the second key based on the key value stored in the message queue 225.

[159] In particular, the driving control unit 240 controls to continuously display two key strokes according to a key down order of the second key and the third key at a time when the third key is pressed before the key up of the second key occurs, irrespective of whether the direct generation time is satisfied. In this case, the key stroke of the second key may be displayed based on the key value stored in the message queue 225. That is, the driving control unit 240 causes the key stroke order to be kept even though several keys are simultaneously pressed as the key down of a plurality of keys occurs continuously within a very short time.

[160] The driving control unit 240 drives the direct corresponding to the identified instruction by means of the second determination unit 230. Here, examples of the direct may include execution of a specific program, opening of a specific folder, and execution of a specific file. The driving control unit 240 may execute a specified program installed in a client terminal associated with the second key in response to the instruction identified from the memory unit 210, open a specified folder retained in the client terminal in response to the identified instruction, and execute a specified file retained in the client terminal in response to the identified instruction.

[161] Also, the driving control unit 240 controls to display a small image (freepop) at a specific location on the screen at a time when the direct instruction is generated and controls to automatically eliminate the small image after a set time elapses, such that the user can visually perceive the direct to be rapidly driven. Thus, the driving control unit 240 can address a shortcoming of a conventional scheme where the user may perceive the direct function to be slowly driven because a visual recognition degree given to the user is poor due to generation of the direct instruction being visually indicated by merely an hourglass of a mouse pointer.

[162] Thus, the present invention provides an environment in which the user can conveniently execute a desired direct, just by pressing a key for a sufficient key down duration. [163] Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention in which addresses corresponding to respective keys are stored in the memory unit 210 and the web browser is driven by the direct will now be described.

[164] The system 100 drives a web browser to access a prescribed address when a user presses the key while performing tasks on an operating system or an application, which makes it possible for the user to rapidly access a service site.

[165] To this end, the memory unit 210 can store keys and addresses to correspond to one another. The address according to the present invention may be a main network address of a specific service site, and the second key related to driving of the web browser may be any key of a keyboard that is assigned a key stroke (symbol) allowing for instinctive identification of the service site. This correspondence of the second key to the address may be previously specified by an operator of the system or a user and stored in the memory unit 210.

[166] In the state in which the system comprises such a memory unit 210, if the key down duration of the second key occurs while satisfying the direct generation time after the interrupt generation time, the driving control unit 240 retrieves the address corresponding to the second key from the memory unit 210 and drives the web browser so that the user accesses a service site at the retrieved address.

[167] The driving control unit 240 drives the web browser so that the user accesses a service site at a previously specified address by pressing the second key sufficiently, i.e., for the key down duration satisfying the direct generation time.

[168] Thus, the present invention allows the user to directly access a main page of a specific service site, just by pressing a specified shortcut key (the second key).

[169] When the web browser is driven, the driving control unit 240 may control to switch a current web page to a specific web page by accessing the address identified from the memory unit 210. That is, the driving control unit 240 allows for switching to the specific web page at the state in which the web browser is activated.

[170] Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention in which the second key is pressed and the key down of the second key is kept above the set direct generation time in the state in which any word is input to an Internet address box or a text box (e.g., a tool bar) on the web browser will be described.

[171] The system 200 can provide an environment allowing a search task based on the word input to the Internet address box or the text box to be performed at a previously specified service site, and allowing for switching to a page corresponding to the search result.

[172] To this end, the memory unit 210 may store internal addresses associated with the searched sites. The system 200 may pop up an interface in a predetermined small search bar form consisting of a text box and a search execution button required for searching, and may drive the web browser to display a keyword input through the popped up interface and a search result page.

[173] Thus, the present invention can provide an environment in which when any word is input to the Internet address box or the text box, the search result of an intended searched site associated with the input word is promptly provided to the user by utilizing the shortcut key function without performing a normal procedure of accessing the searched site and subsequently pressing a search button. This can improve equivalent accessibility to several searched sites, thereby greatly improving user convenience, in light of competition of main portals desiring to monopolize a shortcut search route by installing a tool bar.

[174] In the present specification, the web browser has been illustrated as being driven to access a specific address and provided to the user just by pressing the shortcut key. However, the shortcut function activated by the continuous key down of the specific key of the present invention may rather obstruct normal performance of any application. To prevent the obstruction, the system 200 of the present invention allows access of the web browser to the set address to automatically stop depending on applications run by the user, so that the shortcut function is not misused. That is, the system 200 may have a monopoly mode list, and checks whether an application currently run by the user is included in the monopoly mode list and if it is included in the monopoly mode list, stop the shortcut function temporarily. Here, a monopoly mode application may be an application needing no shortcut function, e.g., a game application using a full screen.

[175] In other exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the system 200 may selectively drive the direct and display the key stroke depending on whether the key down duration satisfies the direct generation time without making the first determination step when the second key specified with the intention of driving a specific number of directs among all keys is pressed.

[176] That is, if the direct driving function is assigned only to a specific key, i.e., the second key, the system 200 selectively drives the direct based on only the key down du ration of the second key, irrespective of key up/key down of the first key.

[177] If the key down of the second key having the direct driving function occurs, the system 200 may identify an instruction corresponding to the second key from the memory unit 210 and drive a direct corresponding to the identified instruction as the checked key down duration of the second key satisfies the direct generation time. In this case, at a time when the key down of the second key time having the direct driving function occurs, the system 200 always invalidates displaying input of the key stroke assigned to the second key and automatic repetitive input of the key stroke and does not respond to the key down of the keys having no direct driving function so that normal stroke can be always performed.

[178] On the other hand, if the checked key down duration of the second key does not satisfy the direct generation time and the key up of the second key occurs, the system 200 may display the key stroke assigned to the second key as it is.

[179] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of the memory unit according to the present invention.

[180] As shown in FIG. 7, the memory unit 210 may store keys to correspond to respective instructions.

[181] In FIG. 7, an instruction 'to drive a web browser having an address of a first site as a basic value' is stored to correspond to key 'N' in the memory unit 210, an instruction 'to drive a web browser having an address of a second site as a basic value' is stored to correspond to key 'D' and an instruction 'to drive a small web search /connection bar' is stored to correspond to key 'F'. Also, an instruction 'to drive specific software' is stored to correspond to key 'P' in the memory unit 210, an instruction 'to open a specific folder' is stored to correspond to key 'M' and an instruction 'to open a specific file' is stored to correspond to key '2'.

[182] In FIG. 7, when the key down of the second key occurs after the interrupt generation time elapses, the system 200 of the present invention determines the key down of the second key to be 'a discontinuous stroke'. In FIG. 7, the direct generation time is set to '0.5 sees'.

[183] When the key down duration of the second key 'N' pressed by the user is above the direct generation time of '0.5 sees' the system 200 may drive a web browser having, as a homepage, a search site such as www.naver.com, which is a direct associated with the instruction, corresponding to the second key 'N', to drive a web browser having an address of a first site as a basic value by referring to the memory unit 210 of FIG. 7. If the key down duration of the second key 'N' is below the direct generation time of '0.5 sees', i.e., when the key up time of the second key 'N' is within the direct generation time of '0.5 sees' the system 200 can output the letter N that is a key stroke assigned to the second key on the screen by using the key value stored in the message queue 225.

[184] When the key down duration of the second key 'D' pressed by the user is above the direct generation time of '0.5 sees', the system 200 may drive the web browser having, as a homepage, a search site such as www.daum.com, which is a direct associated with the instruction, corresponding to the second key 'D', to drive a web browser having an address of a second site as a basic value by referring to the memory unit 210 of FIG. 7. If the key down duration of the second key 'D' is below the direct generation time of '0.5 sees', i.e., when the key up time of the second key 'D' is within the direct generation time of '0.5 sees', the system 200 can output the letter D that is a key stroke assigned to the second key on the screen by using the key value stored in the message queue 225. [185] When the key down duration of the second key 'F' pressed by the user is above the direct generation time of '0.5 sees' the system 200 may drive a mini search bar which is a direct associated with the instruction, corresponding to the second key 'F', 'to drive a small web search /connection bar' by referring to the memory unit 210 of FIG. 7. If the key down duration of the second key 'F' is below the direct generation time of '0.5 sees' the system 200 can output the letter F that is a key stroke assigned to the second key on the screen by using the key value stored in the message queue 225.

[186] When the key down duration of the second key 'P' pressed by the user is above the direct generation time of '0.5 sees', the system 200 may drive photoshop.exe, which is a direct associated with the instruction, corresponding to the second key 'P', 'to drive a specific software' by referring to the memory unit 210 of FIG. 7. If the key down duration of the second key 'P' is below the direct generation time of '0.5 sees' the system 200 can output the letter P that is a key stroke assigned to the second key on the screen by using the key value stored in the message queue 225.

[187] When the key down duration of the second key 'M' pressed by the user is above the direct generation time of '0.5 sees', the system 200 drives opening of a music folder retained in the client terminal which is a direct associated with the instruction, corresponding to the second key 'M', 'to open a specific folder' by referring to the memory unit 210 of FIG. 7. If the key down duration of the second key 'M' is below the direct generation time of '0.5 sees', the system 200 can output the letter M that is a key stroke assigned to the second key on the screen by using the key value stored in the message queue 225.

[188] When the key down duration of the second key '2' pressed by the user is above the direct generation time of '0.5 sees, the system 200 drives opening of document.doc retained in the client terminal which is a direct associated with the instruction, corresponding to the second key '2', 'to open a specific file' by referring to the memory unit 210 of FIG. 7. If the key down duration of the second key '2' is below the direct generation time of '0.5 sees', the system 200 can output the numeral 2 that is a key stroke assigned to the second key on the screen by using the key value stored in the message queue 225.

[189] FIG. 8 illustrates generation of a shortcut function according to the present invention.

[190] As described above, when the key down of the second key occurs after the interrupt generation time elapses from the key up of the first key, the system 200 determines the key down of the second key to be a 'discontinuous stroke' and generates an interrupt signal. The interrupt signal is defined as a signal for invalidating displaying the key stroke (symbol) assigned to the key or automatic repetitive input of the key stroke. When any key is continuously pressed on a general OS environment, the key stroke (symbol) assigned to the key is repeatedly input at periodic time intervals (e.g., 0.1 sees). That is, the interrupt signal invalidates displaying the key stroke or periodic repetitive input of the key stroke at a time when the key is pressed.

[191] After the interrupt signal is generated, the system 200 activates the shortcut key function for the second key when the key down duration of the second key satisfies the direct generation time. The direct generation time may be set to a sufficient pressing time of the second key that allows the system 200 of the present invention to recognize user's intention of shortcut key activation.

[192] In FIG. 8(i), after the key up of the first key occurs, the key down of the second key occurs within a set interrupt generation time. The system 200 determines the key down of the second key to be a continuous stroke and displays a key stroke assigned to the second key, e.g., a letter 'G' as it is.

[193] In FIG. 8(ii), after the key up of the first key occurs, the key down of the second key occurs after a set interrupt generation time elapses. The system 200 determines the key down of the second key to be a 'discontinuous stroke' generates an interrupt signal, and temporarily stores the key stroke value (alphabet G) assigned to the second key in the message queue 225. As the interrupt signal is generated, displaying and additional repetitive inputting of the key stroke (alphabet G) assigned to the second key are invalidated.

[194] In FIG. 8(iii), the direct is executed as the key down duration of the second key satisfies the set direct generation time after the interrupt signal is generated. As the user presses the second key for a sufficient duration, the system 200 recognizes a user's intention of using the second key as a shortcut key and drives a direct for an instruction associated with the second key (to execute software on a web).

[195] In FIG. 8(iv), the key up of the second key occurs at a state in which the key down duration of the second key does not satisfy the set direct generation time after the interrupt signal is generated. The system 200 recognizes the key down of the second key as an intention of normal typing, and displays the key stroke (alphabet 'G' assigned to the second key as it is by using the key value stored in the message queue 225 at a time when the interrupt signal is generated.

[196] The present invention can provide an environment in which the user is allowed to conveniently execute a desired direct just by pressing a key for a sufficient key down duration.

[197] The present invention can also provide the shortcut function allowing the user to activate the direct without affecting a use system for an existing input device while using an operating system or an application.

[198] A task flow of the system 200 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will now be described. [199] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for interfacing a key user according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[200] The method for interfacing a key user according to the present exemplary embodiment may be performed by the system 200.

[201] First, the system 200 stores keys and corresponding instructions in the memory unit

210 (S410). In step S410, instructions for driving directs are stored to correspond to the keys.

[202] Examples of the instruction may include an instruction related to execution of a specified program installed in a client terminal of the user, an instruction related to opening of a specified folder retained in the client terminal, and an instruction related to execution of a specified file retained in the client terminal (see FIG. 7).

[203] The system 200 checks a time elapsing from the key up or down of the first key and determines whether the elapsing time passes the interrupt generation time (S420) and recognizes the key down of the second key (S430).

[204] The system 200 then makes a first determination as to whether the key down of the second key occurs after the interrupt generation time elapses from the key up of the first key (S440). In step S440, the determination is made as to whether the time lapsing until the key down of the first key occurs satisfies the set interrupt generation time.

[205] If the first determination S440 shows that the key down of the second key occurs before the interrupt generation time, i.e., that the time lapsing until the key down occurs does not satisfy the interrupt generation time, the system 200 displays the key stroke assigned to the second key (S445). That it, in step S445, when the key down of the second key occurs before the interrupt generation time, the system 200 recognizes the key down of the second key to be a continuous stroke and performs normal typing processing.

[206] On the other hand, when the first determination (S440) shows that the key down of the second key occurs after the interrupt generation time, i.e., that the key down of the second key is determined to be a discontinuous stroke, the system 200 generates an interrupt signal (S450). That is, in step S450, when the key down of the second key occurs after the interrupt generation time, the system recognizes that the user is likely to utilize the second key as a shortcut key and generates an interrupt signal for invalidating displaying input of the key stroke previously assigned to the second key and automatic repetitive input of the key stroke.

[207] In step S450, the system 200 may control to store the key value of the key stroke assigned to the second key in the message queue 225 upon generating the interrupt signal.

[208] The system 200 makes a second determination as to whether the key down duration of the second key satisfies the direct generation time (S460). That is, in step S460, the determination is made as to whether the key down duration of the second key determined to be a discontinuous stroke in the first determination satisfies the previously set direct generation time.

[209] If the second determination result (S460) shows that the key down duration of the second key does not satisfy the direct generation time and if the key up of the second key occurs, the system 200 controls to display the key stroke assigned to the second key by using the key value stored in the message queue 225 (S465).

[210] On the other hand, if the second determination result (S460) shows that the key down duration of the second key satisfies the direct generation time, the system 200 identifies an instruction corresponding to the second key from the memory unit 210 and drives a direct corresponding to the identified instruction (S470). That is, in step S470, a specified program installed in a client terminal associated with the second key is executed in response to the instruction identified from the memory unit 210, a specified folder retained in the client terminal is opened in response to the identified instruction, or a specified file retained in the client terminal is executed in response to the identified instruction.

[211] The present invention can provide an environment allowing the user to conveniently execute a desired direct just by pressing a key with sufficient key down duration.

[212] The present invention can also provide the shortcut function allowing the user to access a direct without affecting a use system for an existing input device while using an operating system or an application.

[213] The exemplary embodiments of the present invention include a computer readable medium having program instructions recorded thereon for performing operation implemented by several computers. The computer readable medium may include program instructions, local data files, data structures and the like solely or in combination. The medium may be particularly designed and produced for the present invention or may be known to those skilled in the field of computer software. Exampl es of the computer readable recording medium include: magnetic media such as a hard disk, a floppy disk and a magnetic tape; optical media such as a compact disk-read only memory (CD-ROM) and a digital versatile disc (DVD); magneto-optical media such as a floptical disk; a read only memory (ROM); a random access memory (RAM); and a flash memory, which are hardware devices particularly configured to store and execute program instructions. The medium may be an optical or metallic line or a waveguide including a carrier wave for transferring a signal to specify program instructions, local data structures, and the like. Examples of program instructions include high-level language codes that may be executed by a computer using an interpreter, as well as machine language codes as produced by a compiler.

[214] [215] While the invention has been shown and described with reference to certain exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Industrial Applicability

[216] As described above, the present invention can provide a method for interfacing a key user and a system using the same, which provide the shortcut function allowing the user to access a service site without affecting a use system for an existing input device while using an operating system or an application.

[217] The present invention can also provide a method for interfacing a key user and a system using the same, which improve access convenience of a user by allowing the user to promptly access a service site, which is frequently accessed, and sub-sites of the service site through the key down of a single key or a plurality of keys.

[218] The present invention can also provide a method for interfacing a key user and a system using the same, which are capable of preventing the misuse of the shortcut function by allowing the shortcut function to be flexibly activated depending on an application run by the user.

Claims

[1] A method for interfacing a key user, the method comprising the steps of: storing a first key and an instruction address corresponding to the first key in a memory unit; comparing a key down duration of the first key pressed by a user with a set time; generating an interrupt signal when the key down duration of the first key satisfies the set time; and executing a direct to a specific menu/program/function for a shortcut key stroke data in response to generating the interrupt signal.

[2] The method of claim 1, further comprising the steps of: corresponding the first key, the interrupt time, and a first address to one another and identifying the first address corresponding to the first key from the memory unit upon the generation of the interrupt signal; and driving a web browser to access the first identified address and providing the web browser to the user.

[3] The method of claim 2, wherein the interrupt signal invalidates automatic repetitive input of a key stroke assigned to the first key.

[4] The method of claim 2, wherein when a key down time of the first key is KD and a key up time of the key is KU, the step of driving a web browser to access the first identified address and providing the web browser to the user comprises the steps of: determining whether the key up time KU is after an interrupt time m; and displaying a key stroke assigned to the first key to the user at the key up time KU without driving the web browser when it is determined that the key up time KU is before the interrupt time m.

[5] The method of claim 2, wherein when the driven web browser accesses a searched site, the step of driving a web browser to access the first identified address and providing the web browser to the user comprises the step of popping up an interface in a predetermined small search bar form consisting of only a minimal text box and a search execution button required for searching and driving the web browser to display a keyword input through the popped up interface and a search result page.

[6] The method of claim 2, further comprising the step of storing a second key and a second address to correspond to each other in the memory unit, wherein the step of driving a web browser to access the first identified address and providing the web browser to the user comprises the step of identifying the second address corresponding to the second key from the memory unit when the second key is pressed by the user, driving the web browser to access the second identified address, and providing the web browser to the user.

[7] The method of claim 6, wherein the second address is a sub-address in the first address or a different address from the first address.

[8] A method for interfacing a key user, the method comprising the steps of: storing a first key, an interrupt time, and a first address to correspond to one another in a memory unit; measuring a key down duration of the first key when a user selects a character string and presses the first key; generating an interrupt signal when the measured key down duration satisfies the interrupt time corresponding to the first key; identifying the first address corresponding to the first key from the memory unit upon the generation of the interrupt signal; and driving a web browser to access the first identified address and to have a search box into which a keyword associated with the character string is input, and providing the web browser to the user.

[9] The method of claim 8, further comprising the step of storing a second address in the first address to correspond to a second key in the memory unit, wherein: the step of driving a web browser to access the first identified address and to have a search box into which a keyword associated with the character string is input, and providing the web browser to the user comprises the step of identifying the second address corresponding to the second key from the memory unit when the user presses the second key while the interrupt signal is being continuously generated, and driving a sub-web browser in the web browser to access the second identified address and to have a search box into which the keyword associated with the character string is input and providing the web browser to the user.

[10] The method of claim 8 or 9, further comprising the step of exposing the search result to the user in response to inputting the keyword.

[11] The method of claim 8 or 9, wherein the keyword input to the search box is any one of a syllable, a word, and a phrase in the character string having an identifiable meaning.

[12] A computer readable recording medium having a program recorded thereon for performing the method of any one of claims 1 to 9.

[13] A system for interfacing a key user, the system comprising: a memory for storing a first key, an interrupt time, and a first address to correspond to one another; an interface unit for measuring a key down duration of the first key pressed by a user; and a web browser driving unit for generating an interrupt signal when the measured key down duration satisfies the interrupt time corresponding to the first key, identifying the first address corresponding to the first key from the memory unit upon the generation of the interrupt signal, driving the web browser to access the first identified address, and providing the web browser to the user.

[14] The system of claim 13, wherein the interrupt signal invalidates automatic repetitive input of a key stroke assigned to the first key.

[15] The system of claim 13, wherein when a key down time of the first key is KD and a key up time of the key is KU, the web browser driving unit determines whether the key up time KU is after an interrupt time m, and displays a key stroke assigned to the first key to the user at the key up time KU without driving the web browser when it is determined that the key up time KU is before the interrupt time m.

[16] The system of claim 13, wherein when the driven web browser accesses a searched site, the web browser driving unit pops up an interface in a predetermined small search bar form consisting of only a minimal text box and a search execution button required for searching and drives the web browser to display a keyword input through the popped up interface and a search result page.

[17] The system of claim 13, wherein the memory unit stores a second key and a second address to correspond to each other, and the web browser driving unit identifies the second address corresponding to the second key from the memory unit when the second key is pressed by the user, drives the web browser to access the second identified address, and provides the web browser to the user.

[18] The system of claim 17, wherein the second address is a sub-address in the first address or a different address from the first address.

[19] A system for interfacing a key user, the system comprising: a memory for storing a first key, an interrupt time, and a first address to correspond to one another; an interface unit for measuring a key down duration of the first key when a user selects a character string and presses the first key; and a web browser driving unit for generating an interrupt signal when the measured key down duration satisfies the interrupt time corresponding to the first key, identifying the first address corresponding to the first key from the memory unit upon the generation of the interrupt signal, driving the web browser to access the first identified address and to have a search box into which a keyword associated with the character string is input, and providing the web browser to the user.

[20] The system of claim 19, whether the memory unit stores a second address in the first address to correspond to a second selected key, and the web browser driving unit identifies the second address corresponding to the second key from the memory unit when the user presses the second key while the interrupt signal is being continuously generated, and drives a sub-web browser in the web browser to access the second identified address and to have a search box into which the keyword associated with the character string is input, and provides the web browser to the user.

[21] The system of claim 19 or 20, further comprising a search unit for exposing the search result to the user in response to inputting the keyword.

[22] The system of claim 19 or 20, wherein the keyword input to the search box is any one of a syllable, a word, and a phrase in the character string having an identifiable meaning.

[23] A method for interfacing a key user, the method comprising the steps of: making a first determination as to whether a key down of a second key occurs after an interrupt generation time elapses; generating an interrupt signal when the key down of a second key occurs after the interrupt generation time elapses; making a second determination as to whether a key down duration of the second key satisfies a direct generation time; identifying an instruction corresponding to the second key from the memory unit when the key down duration of the second key satisfies the direct generation time; and driving a direct corresponding to the identified instruction.

[24] The method of claim 23, wherein the interrupt generation time is a time interval set from the key up or key down of the first key occurring prior to the second key.

[25] The method of claim 23, further comprising the steps of: storing a key value of a key stroke assigned to the second key in a message queue upon the generation of the interrupt signal; and displaying the key stroke by using the key value stored in the message queue when the key down duration of the second key does not satisfy the direct generation time and the key up of the second key occurs.

[26] The method of claim 23, further comprising the step of displaying the key stroke assigned to the second key when the key down of the second key occurs before the interrupt generation time elapses.

[27] The method of claim 23, wherein the step of generating an interrupt signal comprises the step of invalidating displaying input of the key stroke assigned to the second key and automatic repetitive input of the key stroke.

[28] A method for interfacing a key user, the method comprising the steps of: storing a second key and an instruction corresponding to the second key in a memory unit; checking the key down of the second key; identifying an instruction corresponding to the second key from the memory unit when the key down duration of the second key satisfies a direct generation time; and driving a direct corresponding to the identified instruction.

[29] The method of claim 28, wherein the step of checking the key down of the second key comprises the step of invalidating displaying input of a key stroke assigned to the second key and automatic repetitive input of the key stroke.

[30] The method of claim 28, further comprising the step of displaying the key stroke assigned to the second key when the key down duration of the second key does not satisfy the direct generation time.

[31] The method of claim 23 or 28, wherein the step of driving a direct corresponding to the identified instruction comprises one of the steps of: executing a specified program installed in a client terminal associated with the second key in response to the identified instruction; opening a specified folder retained in the client terminal in response to the identified instruction; and executing a specified file retained in the client terminal in response to the identified instruction.

[32] The method of claim 31, wherein the memory unit stores an address corresponding to the key, and the step of executing a specified program comprises the steps of: identifying the address corresponding to the key from the memory unit; and driving a web browser to access the identified address.

[33] The method of claim 32, wherein when the address in the memory unit is associated with a searched site, the step of driving a web browser to access the identified address comprises the steps of: popping up an interface in a predetermined small search bar form consisting of a text box and a search execution button required for search; and driving the web browser to display a keyword input through the popped up interface and a search result page.

[34] The method of claim 31, wherein the memory unit stores an address corresponding to the key, and the step of executing a specified program comprises the steps of: when any web browser is driven, identifying the address corresponding to the key from the memory unit; and accessing the identified address to switch to a specific web page.

[35] A computer readable recording medium having a program recorded thereon for performing the method of any one of claims 23 to 30 and 32, 33 and 34 on the computer.

[36] A system for interfacing a key user, the system comprising: a memory unit for storing keys and instructions corresponding to the keys; a first determination unit for making a first determination as to whether a key down of a second key occurs after an interrupt generation time elapses, and generating an interrupt signal when the key down of a second key occurs after the interrupt generation time elapses; a second determination unit for making a second determination as to whether a key down duration of the second key satisfies a direct generation time, and identifying the instruction corresponding to the second key from the memory unit when the key down duration of the second key satisfies the direct generation time; and a driving control unit for driving a direct corresponding to the identified instruction.

[37] The system of claim 36, wherein the interrupt generation time is a time interval set from the key up or key down of the first key occurring prior to the second key.

[38] The system of claim 36, further comprising a message queue for storing a key value of a key stroke assigned to the second key upon the generation of the interrupt signal, wherein: the driving control unit displays the key stroke by using the key value stored in the message queue when the key down duration of the second key does not satisfy the direct generation time and the key up of the second key occurs.

[39] The system of claim 36, wherein the driving control unit displays the key stroke assigned to the second key when the key down of the second key occurs before the interrupt generation time elapses.

[40] The system of claim 36, wherein the first determination unit invalidates displaying input of the key stroke assigned to the second key and automatic repetitive input of the key stroke.

[41] A system for interfacing a key user, the system comprising: a memory unit for storing a second key and an instruction corresponding to the second key; a second determination unit for checking the key down of the second key, and identifying an instruction corresponding to the second key from the memory unit when the key down duration of the second key satisfies a direct generation time; and a driving control unit for driving a direct corresponding to the identified instruction.

[42] The system of claim 41, wherein the second determination unit invalidates display of input of a key stroke assigned to the second key and automatic repetitive input of the key stroke.

[43] The system of claim 41, wherein the second determination unit displays the key stroke assigned to the second key when the key down duration of the second key does not satisfy the direct generation time.

[44] The system of claim 36 or 41, wherein the driving control unit executes a specified program installed in a client terminal associated with the second key in response to the identified instruction, opens a specified folder retained in the client terminal in response to the identified instruction, or executes a specified file retained in the client terminal in response to the identified instruction.

[45] The system of claim 44, wherein the memory unit stores an address corresponding to the key, and the driving control unit identifies the address corresponding to the key from the memory unit, and drives a web browser to access the identified address.

[46] The system of claim 45, wherein when the address in the memory unit is associated with a searched site, the driving control unit pops up an interface in a predetermined small search bar form consisting of a text box and a search execution button required for searching and drives the web browser to display a keyword input through the popped up interface and a search result page.

[47] The system of claim 44, wherein the memory unit stores an address corresponding to the key, and the driving control unit identifies the address corresponding to the key from the memory unit when any web browser is driven, and accesses the identified address to switch to a specific web page.