Method of pre-caching user interaction elements using input device position

Abstract

A method ( ) of pre-caching user interaction elements, includes monitoring motion patterns ( ) with an electronic input device having a gesture recorder and a writing surface using a three-dimensional position of the recorder with respect to the writing surface, analyzing the monitored motion patterns ( ) made while the recorder is off the writing surface to determine if the recorder is approaching a target area at the writing surface ( ), the target area having an associated functionality, and triggering the functionality ( )before contact between the recorder and the target area. The steps are repeated continuously. The analyzing step ( ) determines if the recorder is moving towards the writing surface, and, if so, a two-dimensional location of the recorder with respect to the plane of the writing surface is determined ( ) and a trajectory is defined based upon the location and movement of the recorder off the writing surface. A control area disposed at an endpoint of the trajectory is identified ( ) as the target area to be triggered. Alternatively, a plurality of trajectories between the recorder and a control area is defined based upon recorder location and movement off the writing surface and correlated with the actual trajectory. For the trajectory with the highest degree of correlation, a corresponding control area is defined as the target area to be triggered. Triggering of multiple control areas can be simultaneous or sequential. The method can be used with a variety of systems including an inductive stylus and tablet system and a radio frequency stylus and tablet system.