A DATA INPUT METHOD FOR A COMPUTING DEVICE

摘要

A data input method for a computing device using a touch screen; selection of a virtual key occurs when a user presses down on the screen overlying the virtual key with a force exceeding a first pre-defined force and confirmation of selection of a virtual key occurs when the user presses down on the screen overlying the virtual key with a force exceeding a second pre-defined force and actuates a mechanical switch underlying the touch screen. Confirmation of selection in this manner provides tactile feedback missing from conventional touch screen systems. Because it more closely mimics a real world action of hitting a real world key, it is both more satisfying and more easily understood by a user. The invention stands in contrast to the established view that confirmation of the selection of a virtual key should be achieved when a user lifts off from the screen and without any form of tactile feedback.