Patent ID: 10146428

Abstract:
Disclosed is a method, device, and system for entry of command using a touch sensitive surface. Instead of the device providing predefined locations for entering different commands, the device identifies the locations of three or more of the user's fingers or other objects. After determining the locations of the fingers, an entry mode allows for the entry of one or more commands based on an association between the commands and movements of different fingers and the type or direction of movement. The association may include a first command associated with the sliding motion of only a first finger in a first direction and a second different command associated with the sliding motion of only a second finger in a second direction. The first and second directions may be the same (i.e., within about 30°, within about 20°, within about 15°, within about 10°, or within about 5°) or different (e.g., angled by more than 30°, angled by more than 40°, or angled by more than 50°). Preferably the command entry mode is triggered by a trigger event. Preferably one of the fingers remain on the touch sensitive surface from the identification of the locations of the fingers through the entry of the command.