Memory-based function activation

This terms refers to situation dependent Intention-operation transition (in contrast with direct mapping), when the operators are required to memorize the system situation prior to the operation.

Memory-based mapping is typical of systems with many functions, compared to the number of controls.

Example

A QWERTY keyboard enables the operators to enter lower and upper case letters using shared keys. The selection of the actual (lower or upper) case is determined by situation of the Caps Lock key, and by the parallel pressing of the Shift key. If the case indication is by a LED outside of the vision area, then the operators need to rely on the memory of the history of recent actions.

Explanation

In memory-based mapping, the operators need to memorize or examine the system situation prior to activating a control. The attention required to make sure that the proper function is selected hampers the main task.