US 6,310,609 B1 · User interface with guide lights

Abstract

A user interface with guide lights for a communications device, such as a mobile telephone, is provided to assist a user in the correct and efficient operation of the device having a display, and a keypad which contains a numerical 10-key and other control keys. The user interface includes a means for identifying the appropriate keys on the keypad which correspond to the step or steps required to activate a desired operation to be performed within the device. In the preferred embodiment, identification of the appropriate keys is achieved using a light source which is mounted beneath each translucent key so that when the light source is illuminated, the key associated with that light source will be identified to the user. The intensity of the light sources is variable and may be controlled to provide sufficient contrast to read all keys in low ambient light while highlighting the keys to be pressed for operation of the desired function. In high ambient light, the intensity of the guide lights may be increased for enhanced contrast and visibility. Alternatively, different color light sources may be used, with one color to light all keys for visibility in low ambient light, if needed, and the other color to provide the guide lights.

Claims20

Dependent claims

A user interface for assisting a user in the operation of a telephone, said telephone having a display and a keypad having a plurality of keys, each said key corresponding to a particular operation of said telephone, said user interface comprising:

a plurality of illumination sources, wherein at least one illumination source of said plurality of illumination sources corresponds to each key of said plurality of keys to uniquely identify said key by selectively illuminating the corresponding illumination source;
a means for independently controlling activation of said plurality of illumination sources to identify one or more of said plurality of keys in order to guide said user in the proper operation of the telephone;
means for identifying when the user presses a non-illuminated key to alert the user of an error due to pressing the non-illuminated key;
and
a timer, said timer being electrically connected to said data processor for providing a timing signal of a predetermined duration signaling said data processor to deactivate said illumination sources.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

User interface with guide lights

Life of this patent

User interface with guide lights

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims20