WO2008100121A1

WO2008100121A1 - Data input device

Info

Publication number: WO2008100121A1
Application number: PCT/KR2008/000953
Authority: WO
Inventors: Eui Jin Oh
Original assignee: Eui Jin Oh
Priority date: 2007-02-16
Filing date: 2008-02-18
Publication date: 2008-08-21
Also published as: KR20080076860A

Abstract

A data input device is disclosed. The data input device includes input means for inputting data in response to signals, a detection unit for detecting signals from the input means, and a control unit for determining one or more valid signals from among signals detected by the detection unit and then generating data. The input means includes a plurality of radial input units arranged in radial directions from a reference location with a uniform distance therebetween. Each of the radial input units is provided such that it can move toward a plurality of direction indication locations, radially arranged around the reference location, thereby enabling directional movement input for inputting data assigned to each of the direction indication locations.

Description

Description DATA INPUT DEVICE

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates, in general, to a data input device, and, more particularly, to a data input device capable of distinguishing between the directions of signals input through input means, enabling effective input based on inward and outward directions, and improving convenience for users.

[2]

Background Art

[3] Generally, with the increase of the importance of information based on the development of information devices, the importance of data input devices has also increased. In addition, with the development of semiconductor technique and information processing technique, which are used for information devices, the information devices have become small and have been popularized. Therefore, a great deal of effort has been made in order to provide data input devices capable of enabling information to be input fast and accurately.

[4] In order to input data at high speed, it is necessary to perform a so-called "one stroke-one phoneme" input, in which one phoneme (data) is input through one input action. When such "one stroke-one phoneme" input is applied to the Korean alphabet, it is necessary to provide input keys, such as buttons, for inputting each of 24 or more phonemes. Therefore, when the target language of input is a foreign language, such as English or Japanese, or one or more languages must be combined and then input, it is apparent that a larger number of input keys are required to be provided than in the case of the Korean alphabet.

[5] A keyboard is one example of such a data input device. A keyboard includes a plurality of input keys so that arbitrary data can be selected. Each of the input keys is provided with data to be input. Further, two or more pieces of data in which a single English character and a single Korean character are combined are generally provided to a single input key.

[6] Since the keyboard generally includes 100 or more input keys, minimum space is necessary for the formation of the input keys. IHbwever, since there is a limitation on the reduction in the size of a portable device, such as a notebook computer, a problem occurs in that reduction in the size of an entire information device is difficult due to a data input device. [7] Further, since a plurality of input keys of the keyboard closely neighbors each other, a problem occurs in that an input key, which is not a desired input key, may be input, or one of neighboring input keys of the desired input key may be input together with the desired input key, so that erroneous input may occur when input is performed at high speed.

[8] Touch screen schemes used in different types of data input devices, such as Personal

Data Assistants (PDAs) have a problem in that the input speed thereof is slow. When an area which substitutes for a plurality of input keys as in a keyboard is formed on a touch screen, such a touch screen scheme has more cases of erroneous input in which a desired region, to be input by a user, is input together with the input region, which is not the desired region but close to the desired region, compared to the keyboard. Such an "interference" problem causes users inconvenience.

[9] Furthermore, in the case of keypad schemes used in mobile phones, since the size of such a mobile phone is small, characters, such as 24 or more Korean characters and English characters, numbers, and symbols are input using only 12 buttons. Therefore, it is inevitable to arrange a plurality of characters on each single button, with the result that an input action is repeated to input one phenomenon, the input action should be performed by changing a mode when various types of data are input, and input is slow and erroneous operations occur, so that a problem of increasing inconvenience to users occurs.

[10]

Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem

[11] Accordingly, the present invention has been made keeping in mind the above problems occurring in the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide a data input device that is capable of discriminating between inward and outward signals input through input means, thereby enabling the accurate input of data using even a small area.

[12] Another object of the present invention is to provide a data input device that is capable of rapidly inputting data because repeated input is not required and touch input can be performed, and that is capable of accurately inputting data because the range of movement for input is narrow, thus preventing erroneous input attributable to a user's carelessness.

[13] A further object of the present invention is to provide a data input device that is capable of inputting a large amount of data using even a small area, and that is capable of being applied to various information devices, thereby realizing lightweight and small-sized information devices.

[14]

Technical Solution

[15] In order to accomplish the above objects, the present invention provides a data input device, including input means for inputting data in response to signals; a detection unit for detecting signals from the input means; and a control unit for determining one or more valid signals from among signals detected by the detection unit, and then generating data, wherein the input means includes a plurality of radial input units arranged in radial directions from a reference location with a uniform distance therebetween; and each of the radial input units is provided such that it can move toward a plurality of direction indication locations, radially arranged around the reference location, thereby enabling directional movement input for inputting data assigned to each of the direction indication locations.

[16] The input means further includes a central input unit arranged at the reference location, and configured to enable directional movement input.

[17] The directional movement input of each of the central input unit and the radial input unit is performed using two distinct signals.

[18] Each of the central input unit and the radial input unit enables directional movement input and one or more of contact input and pressing input, so that data corresponding to a character at relevant to a location is input through one or more of directional movement input, the contact input, and the pressing input.

[19] The pressing input of each of the central input unit and the radial input unit is performed using two distinct signals.

[20] The directional movement input of the radial input unit can be divided into inward input toward the reference location and outward input in a direction away from the reference location, and specific data corresponding to a character at relevant to a location is input based on the inward input and the outward input.

[21] The radial input units are provided from two reference locations, four radial input units for each reference location.

[22] The input means includes eight radial input units arranged in eight radial directions from the reference location with the uniform distance therebetween.

[23] The radial input unit enables two stage input in inward and outward directions based on the strength of pressing pressure or a distance of movement. [24] The radial input unit inputs data, such as a character, a number and a symbol, or performs a function of Mode Switching Cancel, Enter or Space using two different directional signals other than inward and outward signals from among four types of signals in respective radial directions.

[25] Data, such as a character, a number, and a symbol, is input, or a function of Mode

Switching, Cancel, Enter or Space are performed through the pressing input of each of the central input unit and the radial input unit.

[26] The directional movement input of the radial input unit is distinguished using a signal having a short distance of movement and a signal having a long distance of movement.

[27] Each of the central input unit and the radial input unit is an input key type-input unit formed with a separate key.

[28] The key is a device pointer.

[29] A plurality of radial input keys is integrated together.

[30] The input means can be implemented on a touch screen, a touch pad, or a touch keypad.

[31] The radial input unit further includes a protruding portion for easily distinguishing between the lengths of input signals.

[32] The central input unit of the input means is implemented to have a small dot shape so as to be a reference on a screen, and the plurality of radial input units is arranged in a predetermined region in radial directions around the central input unit.

[33] The input means can be moved on the screen.

[34] The movement of the input means is performed after clicking the central input unit or each of the radial input units twice in a predetermined time.

[35] The data input device includes a waiting region, to which the central input unit can be moved, in one side of the screen; wherein the region for the plurality of radial input units disappears if the central input unit is moved to the waiting region, and the region for the plurality of radial input units appears if the central input unit is moved out of the waiting region.

[36] Transparency of the radial input unit can be adjusted.

[37] A data input device, includes input means for inputting data in response to signals; a detection unit for detecting signals from the input means; and a control unit for determining one or more valid signals from among signals detected by the detection unit, and then generating data, wherein the input means is configured in the form of a plate, in which a central input unit configured to be a reference, and a plurality of radial input units arranged in radial directions around the central input unit and provided with characters arranged in a plurality of columns, are integrated; and each of the central input unit and the radial input unit enables directional movement input and pressing input (direction pressing input), so that data corresponding to a character at relevant to a location is input through the directional movement input or the pressing input.

[38] The disk enables lateral movement in radial directions.

[39] The directional movement input of each of the central input unit and the radial input unit is performed using two distinct signals.

[40] The pressing input of each of the central input unit and the radial input unit is performed using two distinct signals.

[41] The directional movement input of the radial input unit can be divided into inward input toward the reference location and outward input in a direction away from the reference location, and data corresponding to a character at relevant to a location is input based on the inward input and the outward input.

[42] When only a signal of the radial input unit is detected, the detection unit determines that the signal is an outward signal, and, when the signal of the radial input unit is detected and then a signal of the central input unit is detected within a predetermined time, the detection unit determines that the signal is an inward signal.

[43] The radial input unit can perform a function of adjusting a volume or moving a mouse to scroll using continuous signals in a circumferential direction.

[44] The input means further includes a plurality of outside input units arranged in a circumferential direction around the plurality of radial input units.

[45]

Advantageous Effects

[46] According to the present invention, the data input device according to the present invention has advantages in that a large amount of data can be input within a small area using the simultaneous operation of a central input unit and a plurality of radial input units, and in that erroneous operation attributable to a users' carelessness can be prevented because repeated actions are not required, thereby enabling accurate data input.

[47] Furthermore, the data input device according to the present invention has advantages in that the convenience of input of data can be provided due to a simple construction and method of use, and in that lightweight and small information devices can be realized because the present invention can be applied to information devices.

[48] Brief Description of the Drawings

[49] Hgs. 1 to 4 are views showing the configuration of a data input device according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [50] Hg. 5 is a front view showing an example, to which the embodiment, shown in Hgs.

1 to 4, is applied; [51] Hg. 6 is a schematic view showing a data input device according to a second embodiment of the present invention; [52] Hg. 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of the embodiment shown in Rg. 6; [53] Hg. 8 is a conceptual view showing the operation of the embodiment shown in Hg.

6; [54] Hg. 9 is a conceptual view showing an example of the arranged status of Korean characters of the embodiment shown in Hg. 6; [55] Hg. 10 is a conceptual view showing an example of input of the embodiment shown in Hg. 6; [56] Hg. 11 is a perspective view showing a data input device according to a third embodiment of the present invention; [57] Hg. 12 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the data input device shown in Hg. 11;

[58] Hg. 13 is a view showing an input method of the data input device shown in Rg. 12;

[59] Hg. 14 is a perspective view showing the state in which two sets of data input devices, shown in Hg. 11, are provided; [60] Hg. 15 is a perspective view showing another modified example of the data input device shown in Hg. 11; [61] Hgs. 16 to 18 are views showing an input method of the data input device according to the third embodiment; and [62] Hg. 19 is a view showing a method of distinguishing between contact input, inward input, and outward input in the data input device according to the third embodiment.

Mode for the Invention

[63] A data input device according to the present invention, which includes the above- described configuration, will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. [64] The data input device according to the present invention includes input means 10 for inputting data in response to signals, a detection unit 20 for detecting signals from the input means 10, and a control unit 30 for determining one or more valid signals from among signals detected by the detection unit 20, and generating data. The input means 10 includes a central input unit 11 configured to be a reference, and a plurality of radial input units 12 arranged in a circumferential direction around the central input unit 11 and provided with characters arranged in a plurality of columns. The central input unit 11 and the radial input units 12 enable directional movement input and pressing input, so that specific data corresponding to a character at relevant to a location is input through the directional movement input or the pressing input.

[65] The central input unit 11 and the radial input units input data using directional movement input or pressing input, and each of the directional movement input and the pressing input has two distinct signals.

[66] Hrst, the directional movement input of each of the central input unit 11 and the radial input units 12 means that power is applied in a lateral direction (of course, some of the power is applied in a vertical direction for detection). The directional movement input may include a signal having a short distance of movement and a signal having a long distance of movement, and may have two types of signals which can be distinguished from each other based on the strength of pressing pressure in the lateral direction. In the case in which the distance or the strength of pressing pressure is used, a predetermined distance or pressing pressure becomes a reference, and difference in input directions, lengths, or pressing pressure will be indicated using arrows for convenience in the accompanying drawings below. Further, the directional movement input of each of the radial input units 12 can be divided into inward input toward the central input unit 11 and outward input in a direction away from the central input unit, and specific data corresponding to a specific location is input based on the inward and outward input.

[67] The above-described data input device can be largely implemented as an input key- type data input device, a touch screen-type data input device, and a disk-type data input device. The types of the input devices are examples used to describe the data input device according to the present invention, and it is apparent that various types of data input devices can be realized.

[68] Hgs. 1 to 4 are views showing an input key-type data input device according to a first embodiment. Rg. 1 shows an embodiment in which a central input unit 11 is arranged in the center, and four-directional radial input units 12 are arranged in the circumferential direction around the central input unit 11. Hg. l(a) shows that each of the radial input units 12 of the input means 10 can generate four types of signals based on the directions and the lengths of the respective signals. Hg. l(b) shows that two types of signals can be generated for each of four directions by the input of the central input unit 11.

[69] The four types of signals of the radial input unit 12 include a first inward signal, a first outward signal, a second inward signal, and a second outward signal. Here, data corresponding to a character at relevant to a location is input based on each of the signals (the first and second signals mean two types of signals which are distinguished from each other based on the distance of movement or strength of pressing pressure of directional movement input).

[70] The arranged characters may have at least four columns in response to the four types of signals. The arranged characters may include any of data without limitation as long as the data which can be processed, for example, a symbol and a number as well as Korean and English characters. It is preferable that data input through the directional movement input of the radial input unit 12 be a consonant.

[71] Here, although input through the central input unit 11 can be performed together with input through the radial input unit 12, it is preferable that the detection unit (not shown) ignore the detection of the input of the central input unit 11 within a predetermined time after the input through the radial input unit 12 is performed, and process a signal input through the radial input unit 12, so that erroneous input, which occurs because the central input unit 11 is located close to the radial input unit 12, can be prevented.

[72] Further, the radial input unit 12 inputs data, such as a character, a number and a symbol, or performs a function of Mode Switching, Cancel, Enter or Space using two directional signals, other than the inward and outward signals, from among four radial directional signals (signals corresponding to four directions which are perpendicular to one another).

[73] When still more pieces of data, including the characters arranged in four columns, are input, data in two columns can be input based on the separate signal of the central input unit 11. In greater detail, data in two columns can be input when the signal of the central input unit 11 corresponds to a first signal or a second signal. A total of eight pieces of data can be arranged based on four directions, so that data corresponding to a character at relevant to a location can be input. Here, it is preferable that data input through the directional movement input of the central input unit 11 be a vowel.

[74] In the case in which four radial input units 12 are provided in the circumferential direction around the central input unit 11, four pieces of data can be arranged in six columns, so that a total of 24 pieces of data can be input. Further, since a user can accurately recognize the four radial directions, it is preferable that four radial input units 12 be provided around the central input unit 11. The number of radial input units 12 and the recognizable number of directions can vary based on the type of data and necessity.

[75] Hg. 2 shows an embodiment in which a central input unit 11 and radial input units 12 are provided as separate input key types, as in Hg. 1, and six directional radial input units 12 are arranged around the central input unit 11, which is formed in the center.

[76] As shown in Rg. 2, as the number of radial input units 12, arranged in the circumferential direction around the central input unit 11, increases, the amount of data capable of being input increases. Therefore, this embodiment is appropriate for the case in which various types of data are input without changing a mode. Here, the radial input units 12 can be formed in various forms as long as these are not affected by an input action.

[77] Further, in the data input device according to the present invention, each of the radial input units 12 may include a protruding portion 14 for determining a certain difference in the length of input, as shown in Rg. 3. It is preferable that the protruding portion 14 be configured to have a height such that it is comfortable for a user to perform touch input, and to display an area in which input can be performed to a user.

[78] Although the protruding portion 14 is configured to have a long bar shape in Hg. 2, the protruding portion 14 can be realized to have various shapes, such as a semicircular shape, a dotted line, and a single disk protruding portion 14.

[79] Hg. 4 shows an embodiment in which a plurality of outside input units 13 is arranged in the circumferential direction around a plurality of radial input units 12. Although Rg. 4 shows six detection lines arranged around radial input units 12, it is possible to form various numbers of outside input units 13 in various numbers depending on the types of data, and that the outside input units 13 may be configured in the form of button-type units, such as the central input unit 11 and radial input units 12 shown in Rgs. 1 to 3, and it is apparent that they may be fabricated in various forms.

[80] In the case in which the outside input units 13 are provided, data corresponding to a character arranged at a relevant location can be input when an outside input unit 13 is detected, or a radial input unit 12 and an outside input unit 13 are detected within a predetermined time.

[81] Further, as shown in Hgs. 1 to 4, in the case in which the input means 10 according to the present invention is provided in the form of separate input keys, the respective input keys can be implemented as device pointers. Such a stick pointer enables not only pressing input in a vertical direction but also movement in a lateral direction or in lateral and vertical directions, so that they provide the sensation of motion to a user, thereby enabling more reliable input.

[82] Further, it is apparent that sliding-type input means 10, similar to the illustrated stick pointer, may be used, besides the stick pointers.

[83] Hg. 5 shows an application example of the data input device according to the present invention. The data input device can be implemented on a touch screen, as in a PDA. In the case in which the data input device according to the present invention is implemented on a touch screen, the central input unit 11 is implemented as a small dot for indicating a reference on the screen, and the radial input units 12 are arranged within a predetermined region in radial directions around the central input unit 11.

[84] In the case in which the central input unit 11 is implemented as a small dot shape, the term "dot shape" includes a circular shape and a polygon shape, and the dot shape is implemented to function as a reference such that a user can detect it.

[85] In the touch screen type data input device, the central input unit 11 is implemented as a small dot that a user can recognize, and setting can be made such that the central input unit 12 is transparently viewed. The touch screen-type input unit has an advantage in that a screen is viewed at the same time that input is performed, and thus the separate space of on the screen is not required for input, thereby more efficiently utilizing the screen.

[86] Further, the input means 10 may be enabled to move on the screen. It is preferable that the input means 10 be moved by inputting a specific signal, and then dragging the input means 10 to a desired location. Here, the specific signal be generated by clicking the central input unit 11 or one of the radial input units 12 twice within a predetermined time, and it is preferable to allow the input means 10 to be moved after the specific signal is input, so that the input of general data is prevented from being disturbed.

[87] Further, the input device includes a waiting region on one side of the screen, to which the central input unit 11 can be moved. If the central input unit 11 is moved to the waiting region, the region of the radial input unit 12 disappears, and, if the central input unit 11 is moved out of the waiting region, the region for the radial input units 12 appears. That is, if the input means 10 is unnecessary, it is preferable that setting be made such that the waiting region exists on one side of the screen, and the region of the radial input units 12 can disappear or appear, as in a typical Windows environment. [88] Further, it is preferable that the regions of the radial input units 12 disappear through the waiting region. Further, setting can be made such that the region of the radial input units appear through an action of touching the waiting region twice or rubbing the waiting region, as well as an action of moving the central input unit 11.

[89] In the case in which the data input device 10 according to the present invention is implemented on the touch screen, it is preferable that the first and second signals be distinguished from one another based on the length of input. The detection unit can distinguish between the first and second signals by analyzing the locations of a first input signal and a last input signal.

[90] Existing PDAs have disadvantages in that a separate screen for touch input is formed and a button region corresponding to the input keys exists must be provided on the screen, so that erroneous input occurs because an adjacent button region may be touched along with each button when the button is touched, and so that the use thereof is inconvenient because a region in which buttons are formed covers another window. Fbwever, as described above, the present invention has an advantage in that input can be performed without covering a screen using a minimal region and the setting of the region of each radial input unit 12 to a transparent state.

[91] Further, the data input device according to the present invention has an advantage in that it can be applied to various information devices, such as various devices using touch screens as well as a PDA, using the first and second methods, as in the above- described method.

[92] Next, a second embodiment of the data input device according to the present invention will be described below. The data input device in this embodiment may be configured in the form of a disk- type input means 10, an example of which is illustrated in Hg. 6.

[93] A disk-type data input device according to another embodiment of the present invention includes input means 10 for inputting data in response to signals, a detection unit for detecting signals from the input means, and a control unit for determining one or more valid signals from among the signals detected by the detection unit, and then generating data, wherein the input means 10 is configured in the form of a plate in which a central input unit 11 configured to be a reference, and a plurality of radial input units arranged in radial directions around the central input unit 11 and arranged with characters arranged in a plurality of columns, are integrated, and wherein each of the central input unit 11 and the radial input unit 12 enables directional movement input, and input data corresponding to a character at relevant to a location through pressing input. Furthermore, the disk enables lateral movement in radial directions, and the directional movement input and pressing input of each of the central input unit 11 and the radial input unit 12 have two distinct signals.

[94] The directional movement input of the radial input unit 12 can be divided into inward input toward the central input unit 11 and outward input in a direction away from the central input unit, and specific data corresponding to a specific location is input based on the inward and outward input. Here, when only the signal of a radial input unit 12 is detected, the detection unit determines that the signal is an outward signal. In the case in which the signal from a radial input unit 12 is detected and the signal of the central input unit 11 is detected within a predetermined time, the signal is determined to be an inward signal.

[95] The disk- type data input device may further include an elastic material 21 at the center so that the disk can be moved Beside the elastic material 21, various means can be applied to the data input device according to the present invention as long as the means supports a disk, has first and second signals which can be distinguished from one another by each of the central input unit 11 and radial input unit 12, and enables t he disk to be laterally moved.

[96] In the case in which the signal of a radial input unit 12 input based on the movement of the disk is detected at the same time that the first signal of the central input unit 11 is detected, and in the case in which the signal of the radial input unit 12 input based on the movement of the disk is detected at the same time that the second signal of the central input unit 11 is detected, data corresponding to a character at relevant to a location can be input.

[97] As shown in Rg. 7, when the input means 10 is configured in the form of a disk in which the central input unit 11 and the radial input units 12 are integrated together, it is preferable that the first signal and the second signal be first-stage pressing input and second-stage pressing input, that which are distinguished from each other based on pressing pressure. In greater detail, with reference to Hg. 6, data at relevant locations can be input based on four signals, generated by performing first-stage pressing input and second-stage pressing input, in which only the signals of the radial input units 12 are detected, and generated by performing first-stage pressing input and second-stage pressing input, in which signals are detected within a predetermined time after the signals of the radial input units 12 are detected. Furthermore, data corresponding to characters arranged at respective locations can be input in two cases, specifically, the case in the case in which the movement of the disk is performed at the same time that the first-stage pressing input of the central input unit 11 is performed, and the case in which the movement of the disk is performed at the same time that the second-stage pressing input of the central input unit 11 is performed.

[98] When the first-stage pressing input and second-stage pressing input are employed, the detection unit 20 can use a pressing switch, which is switched depending on the movement of the central input unit 11 when the switch is pressed by a user, or a pressure sensor for detecting pressure applied when the switch is pressed by a user, and an elastic member for returning the central input unit 11, at which the pressing input was performed, to an initial position can be further included.

[99] The first-stage pressing input is detected when the central input unit 11 is pressed with a small force, and the second-stage pressing input is detected when the central input unit 11 is pressed with a larger force. Here, in order to distinguish between the first-stage pressing input and the second-stage pressing input, a metal dome may be further included in the detection unit. The case in which the metal dome is provided has advantages in that the metal dome is switched at the time of second pressing input, and thus a user can feel the sensation of a click, thereby enabling a user to discriminate between the two types of input and reducing a user's erroneous manipulations by a user. At the time of second pressing input, input is detected after 1st pressing input has been performed. Therefore, when the first-stage pressing input and the second-stage pressing input are performed within a predetermined time, the control unit ignores a signal generated by the first-stage pressing input and processes only the signal generated by the second-stage pressing input, so that the first-stage pressing input and the second-stage pressing input can be distinguished from one another, and the respective data thereof can be input.

[100] Hg. 8 is a conceptual view showing the operation of the data input device shown in Rg. 6. Rgs. 7(a) and 7(b) show the signals of the radial input unit 12 which are determined as outward signals generated by the respective first-stage pressing input and second-stage pressing input. Rgs. 7(c) and 7(d) show a signal toward the central input unit 11 detected together with the signal of the radial input unit 12, that is, signals determined as inward signals generated by the respective first-stage pressing input toward the central input unit 11 and the second-stage pressing input toward the central input unit 11.

[101] Further, Rgs. 7(e) and 7(f) show the case in which the disk is moved when the first- stage pressing input of the central input unit 11 is performed, so that the disk is moved in the direction of the radial input unit 12, and the case in which the disk is moved when the second-stage pressing input of the central input unit 11 is performed, so that the disk is moved in the direction of the radial input unit 12.

[102] Data corresponding to a specific location is input in various manners, as shown in Rgs. 7(a) to 7(f). The data input through the input means 10 includes all types of characters and symbols. It is preferable that signals input through the radial input unit 12 be four types of signals including the first inward signal, the first outward signal, the second inward signal, and the second outward signal, and that data input in response to the signals be consonants in the method shown in Rgs. 7(a) to 7(d). Further, it is preferable that signals input through the radial input unit within a predetermined time after the signals from the central input unit 11 is detected be two types of signals, that is, a first signal and a second signal, and that data input in response to the signals be vowels in the method shown in Rgs. 7(e) to 7(f).

[103] In the case of foreign languages, vowels are considered to be characters that correspond to Korean vowels from the viewpoint of pronunciation or belong to a relatively small alphabet group when a relevant foreign language alphabet is divided into two groups based on the linguistic classification criteria.

[104] Since the number of consonants is greater than that of vowels and the frequency of use of consonants is higher than that of vowels, consonants are input using the former method, having which has a shorter path, while vowels are input using the latter method, thereby enabling more faster input.

[105] Although Rg. 7 shows that the first signal is generated by performing the first-stage pressing input and the second signal is generated by performing the second-stage pressing input, signals may be set as long as the signals are distinct signals that can be input through the appropriate combinations of the central input unit 11 and the radial input units 12, because a user can perform discrimination.

[106] Rg. 9 is a conceptual view showing an embodiment of the arranged status of Korean characters on a data input device according to the present invention. Although Rg. 9 shows four directional radial input units 12 arranged in the circumferential direction around a central input unit 11 and Korean characters arranged in six columns on the radial input units 12, various arranged status can be realized based on the data used by a user.

[107] In more particular, Rg. 9 shows that, "π , ^L , τ= , and s" are input through the radi al input units 12 in the case in which signals input through the radial input units 12 are first inward signals, "u , H , A, and O " are input through the radial input units 12 in the case in which signals input through the radial input units 12 are second inward signals, " ^ , ^ , ^ , and τ≡ " are input in the case in which signals input through the radial input units 12 are first outward signals, and "^r, ^"S^", — , and 1 " are input in the case in which signals input through the radial input units 12 are second outward signals.

[108] Further, Hg. 9 shows that " } , -\ , -J-, and T" are input in the case in which a signal generated by the directional movement input of the central input unit 11 is the first signal, and that " I= , ^ , -LL, and TT" are input in the case in which a signal generated by the directional movement input of the central input unit 11 is the second signal.

[109] Of course, arranged characters associated with the input signals may be configured on the data input device according to the present invention in various manners. Further, although vowels and consonants are combined in the case in which the signals input through the radial input units 12 have the second outward signals, the two vowels can be separately input through two distinct signals of a center unit.

[HO]

[111] Hgs. 10(a) to 10(e) are conceptual views showing an example of the input of the data input device according to the present invention, and show the input of the Korean word "-^- ^] " based on the embodiment shown in Hg. 9.

[112] In order to input the character "τ≡ ", the first outward signal is input using the radial input unit 12 on which the character "τ≡ " is arranged and which is located on the right side of the central input unit 11, as shown by an arrow in Hg. 10(a). In order to input the character " — ", the second outward signal is input using the radial input unit 12 on which the character " — " is arranged and which is located below the central input unit 11, as shown by an arrow in Hg. 10(b). In order to input the character "π ", the first inward signal is input using the radial input unit 12 on which the character "π " is arranged and which is located above the central input unit 11, as shown by an arrow in Rg. 10(c), so that the character "π " is input, thereby completing the input of the character "ψ\

[113] Furthermore, the second outward signal is input using the radial input unit 12 on which the character "^"§"" is arranged and which is located on the left side of the central input unit 11, so that the character "^"S^"" is input, as shown by an arrow in Hg. 10(d). Thereafter, the second signal is input using the central input unit 11 in the direction of the radial input unit 12 in which the character " -\ " is arranged and which is located on the left side of the central input unit 11, thereby completing the input of character "*] ", as shown in Rg. 10(e).

[114] [115] Furthermore, a data input device according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described. The data input device includes a central input unit 11 configured to be reference, and radial input units 12 arranged in four radial directions around the central input unit. Each of the radial input units 12 can generate two distinct inward signals toward the central input unit 11, that is, the radial input units 12 can generate a total of eight types of signals. Further, each of the radial input units 12 can generate distinct outward signals toward in a direction away from the central input unit 11, that is, the radial input units 12 can generate a total of eight types of signals. Since each of the radial input units 12 can distinguish between two distinct signals generated by performing touching/pressing input, or first-stage pressing/second-stage pressing input, that is, the radial input units 12 can generate a total of eight types of signals. Therefore, data can be input in response to 24 types of signals.

[116] Each of the two inward signals and two outward signals of each of the radial input units 12 can be distinguished based on the distance of movement, pressing pressure, and displacement, or can be distinguished using a signal generated by movement input or a signal generated by simultaneous movement and pressing input.

[117] Below, a third embodiment of the data input device according to the present invention will be described. The data input device in this embodiment can be formed with stick-shaped input means 10, and an example thereof is shown in Rg. 11.

[118] As shown in Rg. 11, in this embodiment, the data input device is formed as stick- shaped input means. The input means includes four radial input units 12, each of which is configured to distinguish between two types of signals, that is, an inward signal (© in Rg. 11) and an outward signal ((D in Rg. 11) and to perform the input thereof, provided in radial directions based on a reference location C. That is, each of the radial input units 12 can input different characters using inward input toward the reference location C and outward input in a direction opposite to the direction of the inward input.

[119] Further, each of the radial input units 12 can input characters, which are different from those input by performing the inward and outward input, through contact input (® in Rg. 11) performed by coming in contact with the radial input unit 12.

[120] Therefore, since three characters can be input using each of the radial input units 12, a total of 12 pieces of data can be input through the four radial input units 12 radially provided with respect to the reference location C.

[121] Here, in the case in which eight radial input units 12 are radially provided, a total of 24 pieces of data can be input. In the case in which two sets of four-radial input units 12 are radially provided, a total of 24 pieces of data can be input. Further, the number of radial input units 12 which are radially provided is not limited to four or eight. That is, five, six, or seven radial input units 12 can be radially provided.

[122] Here, a method of distinguishing between contact input, inward input, and outward input will be described with reference to Hg. 19. As shown in the drawing, each of the radial input units 12 includes two detection means. Devices, such as a contact sensor, which are well known to those skilled in the art in the present technical field, can be used as the detection means. Here, as shown in Hg. 19(a), when a finger comes into contact with the radial input unit 12, input, indicated by ® in Hg. 19(b), is detected by the two detection means. Therefore, in this case, the contact input is detected.

Rg. 19(b), the detection status of left-side detection means is released at an early time point, at which the direction status of right-side detection means is released. In this case, inward input is detected. In contrast, if the finger shown moves in the direction indicated by © in Rg. 19(b), the detection status of the right-side detection means is released at an early time point, at which the direction status of the left-side detection means is released. In this case, outward input is detected.

[124] Here, the shape and arrangement of the detection means are not limited thereto, and the method of distinguishing between contact input, inward input, and outward input can be applied to the central input unit 11 in the same manner.

[125] Meanwhile, in each of the radial input units 12, the consonants of a language desired to input may be assigned to the contact input ® and the inward input ©, and the vowels of a language desired to input may be assigned to the outward input. Here, it is preferable that the assignment of consonants or vowels with respect to respective input be appropriately realized for the convenience of input. For example, as shown in Hg. 11, contact input ® is performed with respect to the radial input unit 12 located in a 9 o'clock direction, outward input © is performed with respect to the radial input unit 12 located in a 3 o'clock direction, and then outward input © is performed with respect to the radial input unit 12 located in a 12 o'clock direction, so that three phonemes, corresponding to a consonant, a vowel, and a vowel, can be input by a single continuous operation.

[126] Hg. 12 shows a modified example of the data input device according to this embodiment. This modified example shows slide button-type input means 10 as an example. Hg. 14 shows that two sets of input means, shown in Hg. 12, are configured.

[127] The configuration for data input in the modified example will be described with reference to Hg. 13. A support unit 12b is provided below the sliding button 12a so as to space a sliding button 12a apart from a casing on which the input device is mounted, and a pressing detection unit 25 is provided below the support unit 12b so as to come into contact with the casing when pressing input ® is performed and to detect the contact. In this case, it is preferable that the support unit 12b be formed of a material having a predetermined amount of elasticity.

[128] In the case in which the sliding button 12a scheme shown in Hg. 12 is used, various methods of detecting inward input © and outward input © can be provided.

[129] R>r example, a touch pad 20 is provided below the sliding button 12a so as to detect the contact location of the support unit 12b, which moves along with the sliding button 12a, as shown in Hg. 13, or a movement detection unit (not shown), such as a contact sensor, can be provided on the movement path of the support unit 12b, as shown in Rg. 13.

[130] Further, a return member 27, configured to include an elastic material, and provided between the support unit 12b and the casing, thereby returning the radial input unit 12, on which inward input and outward input are performed, to a reference location, may be further provided.

[131] Further, Hg. 15 shows another modified example of the data input device according to this embodiment. In this modified example, the radial input units 12 can be integrated together to have a ring shape.

[132] Meanwhile, multi-stage input can be performed using the radial input units 12 shown in Hgs. 11 and 12. That is, data assigned to the respective radial input units can be input through contact input ®, inward input ©, outward input ©, pressing input ®, performed by vertically pressing each of the radial input units 12, second-stage inward input ©, in which the radial input unit is moved inward in the state in which the radial input unit is pressed, and second-stage outward input ©, in which the radial input unit is moved outward in the state in which the radial input unit is pressed, as shown in Hg. 16.

[133] Further, contact input, inward input, and outward input can be performed in a touch manner, and pressing input, second-stage inward input, and second-stage outward input can be performed in a pressing manner. Here, the multi-stage inward and outward input can be distinguished not based on whether the radial input unit is pressed but based on difference in the distances of movement or difference in the amount of movement. That is, pressing input is performed in two stages based on the strength of pressing pressure, and inward input and outward input can be performed in two stages based on the distances of inward and outward movements.

[134] Furthermore, separate signals can be input by performing inward and outward input while a radial input key does not come into contact with a finger, by performing the inward and outward input while a radial input key comes into contact with a finger, and by performing the inward and outward input while a radial input key is being pressed.

[135] Here, a consonant, a consonant, and a vowel are arranged for respective contact input ®, inward input ©, and outward input ©, and a consonant, a consonant, and a vowel can be arranged for pressing input ®, second-stage inward input ©, and second-stage outward input ©. Further, input can be processed by combining one or more of the above six input methods. In the above case, consonants and vowels can be arranged for contact input, pressing input, inward input, and outward input, in which an input action is easily performed. Further, symbols, numbers, or function keys can be arranged for second-stage inward input and second-stage outward input.

[136] Here, since the pressing input ®, second-stage inward input ©, and second-stage outward input © are performed after the contact input is performed, the contact input may be performed simultaneously with the pressing input ®, second-stage inward input ©, and second-stage outward input ©. Here, in order to prevent the contact input, not desired by a user, from being performed, it is preferable that contact input be ignored when the pressing input, second-stage inward input, and second-stage outward input are performed even though the contact input is performed on the radial input unit 12.

[137] Meanwhile, the input means 10 may further include a central input unit 11, rather than the above-described radial input unit 12, on the reference location C. The input with respect to the central input unit 11 can be performed in the same manner as the input with respect to the radial input unit 12, or part of the input with respect to the radial input unit 12 can be performed.

[138] Hg. 17 shows various types of input methods with respect to the radial input unit 12 of the data input device according to this embodiment. In particular, although Rg. 17 shows a slide button-shaped radial input unit 12, shown in Hg. 12, as an example, the present invention can be applied to the stick-shaped radial input unit 12 shown in Hg. 11 in the same manner.

[139] In greater detail, the radial input unit 12 of the data input device according to the present invention can input data using contact input, inward input, and the combination thereof, as shown in Hg. 17(a), can input data using contact input, outward input, and the combination thereof, as shown in Hg. 17(b), and can input data using inward input, outward input, and the combination thereof, as shown in Hg. 17(c). Further, the radial input unit 12 can input data using contact input, inward input, outward input, and the combination thereof, as shown in Hg. 17(d).

[140] In Hgs. 17 (a) to 17(d), one set of eight-directional radial input units or two sets of eight- directional radial input units may be implemented. Ibr example, Hgs. 18(a) to 18(c) show the implementation types of Hgs. 17(a) to 17(c) when one set of eight- directional radial input units is provided.

[141] Here, in Rgs. 18(a) to 18(c), if only a separate input (contact input, inward input, or outward input) can be performed, a total of 16 characters can be input. In the case of two sets of eight-directional radial input units, a total of 32 characters can be input. Further, if combination input can be performed, 24 characters can be input in Hgs. 18(a) to 18(c). In the case of two sets of eight-directional radial input units, a total of 48 characters can be input.

[142] Furthermore, although Hgs. 11 and 12 show examples in which the radial input units 12 are radially provided in four directions, the radial input units 12 may be provided in five, six, seven, or eight directions.

[143] As described above, the data input device according to the present invention has a reduced number of input keys, so that an the area in which the input means 10 is provided is decreased and, at the same time, various pieces of data can be input through the combinations of input methods, erroneous manipulation can be prevented by eliminating repeated manipulation, and the convenience of input of data can be provided using through a simple method of use.

[144] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, but may be applied to various fields and may be modified and practiced in various ways without departing from the gist of the present invention claimed in the attached claims.

Claims

[1] A data input device, comprising: input means for inputting data in response to signals; a detection unit for detecting signals from the input means; and a control unit for determining one or more valid signals from among signals detected by the detection unit, and then generating data, wherein: the input means includes a plurality of radial input units arranged in radial directions from a reference location with a uniform distance therebetween; and each of the radial input units is provided such that it can move toward a plurality of direction indication locations, radially arranged around the reference location, thereby enabling directional movement input for inputting data assigned to each of the direction indication locations.

[2] The data input device according to claim 1, wherein the input means further comprises a central input unit arranged at the reference location, and configured to enable directional movement input.

[3] The data input device according to claim 2, wherein the directional movement input of each of the central input unit and the radial input unit is performed using two distinct signals.

[4] The data input device according to claim 2, wherein each of the central input unit and the radial input unit enables directional movement input and one or more of contact input and pressing input, so that data corresponding to a character at relevant to a location is input through one or more of directional movement input, the contact input, and the pressing input.

[5] The data input device according to claim 4, wherein the pressing input of each of the central input unit and the radial input unit is performed using two distinct signals.

[6] The data input device according to claim 1, wherein the directional movement input of the radial input unit can be divided into inward input toward the reference location and outward input in a direction away from the reference location, and specific data corresponding to a character at relevant to a location is input based on the inward input and the outward input.

[7] The data input device according to claim 6, wherein the radial input units are provided from two reference locations, four radial input units for each reference location.

[8] The data input device according to claim 6, wherein the input means comprises eight radial input units arranged in eight radial directions from the reference location with the uniform distance therebetween.

[9] The data input device according to claim 6, wherein the radial input unit enable two stage input in inward and outward directions based on strength of pressing pressure or a distance of movement.

[10] The data input device according to claim 6, wherein the radial input unit inputs data, such as a character, a number and a symbol, or performs a function of

Mode Switching, Cancel, Enter or Space using two different directional signals other than inward and outward signals from among four types of signals in respective radial directions.

[11] The data input device according to claim 4, wherein data, such as a character, a number, and a symbol, is input, or a function of Mode Switching, Cancel, Enter or Space are performed through the pressing input of each of the central input unit and the radial input unit.

[12] The data input device according to claim 1, wherein the directional movement input of the radial input unit is distinguished using a signal having a short distance of movement and a signal having a long distance of movement.

[13] The data input device according to any one of claims 2 to 12, wherein each of the central input unit and the radial input unit is an input key type-input unit formed with a separate key.

[14] The data input device according to claim 13, wherein the key is a device pointer.

[15] The data input device according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of radial input keys is integrated together.

[16] The data input device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the input means can be implemented on a touch screen, a touch pad, or a touch keypad.

[17] The data input device according to claim 16, wherein the radial input unit further comprises a protruding portion for easily distinguishing between lengths of input signals.

[18] The data input device according to claim 16, wherein the central input unit of the input means is implemented to have a small dot shape so as to be a reference on a screen, and the plurality of radial input units is arranged in a predetermined region in radial directions around the central input unit.

[19] The data input device according to claim 18, wherein the input means can be moved on the screen.

[20] The data input device according to claim 19, wherein the movement of the input means is performed after clicking the central input unit or each of the radial input units twice in a predetermined time.

[21] The data input device according to claim 20 further comprising a waiting region, to which the central input unit can be moved, in one side of the screen; wherein the region for the plurality of radial input units disappears if the central input unit is moved to the waiting region, and the region for the plurality of radial input units appears if the central input unit is moved out of the waiting region.

[22] The data input device according to claim 17, wherein transparency of the radial input unit can be adjusted.

[23] A data input device, comprising: input means for inputting data in response to signals; a detection unit for detecting signals from the input means; and a control unit for determining one or more valid signals from among signals detected by the detection unit, and then generating data, wherein: the input means is configured in a form of a plate, in which a central input unit configured to be a reference, and a plurality of radial input units arranged in radial directions around the central input unit and provided with characters arranged in a plurality of columns, are integrated; and each of the central input unit and the radial input unit enables directional movement input and pressing input (direction pressing input), so that data corresponding to a character at relevant to a location is input through the directional movement input or the pressing input.

[24] The data input device according to claim 23, wherein the disk enables lateral movement in radial directions.

[25] The data input device according to claim 24, wherein the directional movement input of each of the central input unit and the radial input unit is performed using two distinct signals.

[26] The data input device according to claim 24, wherein the pressing input of each of the central input unit and the radial input unit is performed using two distinct signals.

[27] The data input device according to claim 24 or 26, wherein the directional movement input of the radial input unit can be divided into inward input toward the reference location and outward input in a direction away from the reference location, and data corresponding to a character at relevant to a location is input based on the inward input and the outward input.

[28] The data input device according to claim 27, wherein, when only a signal of the radial input unit is detected, the detection unit determines that the signal is an outward signal, and, when the signal of the radial input unit is detected and then a signal of the central input unit is detected within a predetermined time, the detection unit determines that the signal is an inward signal.

[29] The data input device according to claim 1 or 23, wherein the radial input unit can perform a function of adjusting a volume or moving a mouse to scroll using continuous signals in a circumferential direction.

[30] The data input device according to claim 1 or 23, wherein the input means further comprises a plurality of outside input units arranged in a circumferential direction around the plurality of radial input units.