Method and system for providing modifier key behavior through pen gestures

US7477233B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Microsoft Corporation · US

Inventors

• Richard J. Duncan · Kirkland, US
• Emily Rimas-Ribikauskas · Seattle, US
• Robert J. Jarrett · Snohomish, US
• Leroy B. Keely · Portola Valley, US
• Ernest Pennington · Issaquah, US
• Shawna Davis · Seattle, US
• Sriram Viji · Seattle, US
• Thomas P. Russo · Seattle, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 16, 2005
• Grant date: Jan 13, 2009
• Expiry date: Jan 29, 2027

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G06F3/04883
• WIPO field: Computer technology
• WIPO sector: Electrical engineering

Abstract

Described is a system and method in which pen gestures cause a mode to be entered in which a computing device acts as if a modifier key (e.g., Control, Alt, or Shift) was being pressed. This is accomplished by a pen driver sending a modifier key down to the keyboard and mouse input subsystem. Modifier key behavior is thus provided, including at times when a keyboard is not readily available. While in the modifier key mode, additional gestures can be input, including a gesture that results in the computing device acting as if multiple modifier keys are pressed. Also, while in the mode, visual feedback may be provided to indicate the mode is active. The mode may be exited by sending a corresponding modifier key up, and the exit may be triggered in various ways, including by other gestures, mouse or pen events, and certain keyboard input.