3D Pointing Device With Integrated Keyboard
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current user interfaces for accessing media content, such as television and internet-delivered content, are cumbersome and complex, especially with the increase in available channels and content, leading to slow and difficult selection processes, which hampers the adoption of new services like video-on-demand.
Innovation Solution
A 3D pointing device with a housing, motion sensors, and a processing unit that includes a keyboard for text entry, allowing users to navigate and select content in three dimensions and enter text efficiently, reducing the complexity of existing interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of buttons on the remote control device is increased to support additional functionality and content handling, then the device can accommodate more channels and content options, but the complexity of the interface and the time required for users to review available information and make selections significantly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a 3D pointing device that adds spatial dimensionality to the traditional 2D remote control interface. The device includes a motion sensor for detecting three-dimensional motion, a scroll wheel for rotational input, and buttons for selection, allowing users to navigate content in three-dimensional space rather than being constrained to a flat button layout. This dimensional expansion enables more intuitive navigation of large content libraries without proportionally increasing interface complexity.
2Quantity of substance
If the number of rows in the electronic program guides is increased to accommodate more channels, then more content can be displayed, but the time required for a viewer to review the available information increases
Solution Approach 1:
The 3D pointing device enables navigation through content in three-dimensional space, allowing users to quickly scan and access content by moving the device in space rather than sequentially scrolling through extended lists. The motion sensor detects three-dimensional motion to translate physical movements into rapid navigation through large content databases, dramatically reducing the time required to browse and select from numerous channels and programs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical button-pressing and sequential scrolling mechanism with a motion-based control system. The motion sensor detects three-dimensional motion of the device, and the processor translates this motion into corresponding navigation actions on the display, enabling users to rapidly scan through content by simply moving the device through space rather than methodically pressing buttons or scrolling through long lists.
3Adaptability or versatility
If standard navigation methodology is used for Internet-delivered content on television, then compatibility with existing systems is maintained, but the process of typing in alpha-numeric information becomes extremely slow and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the cumbersome on-screen keyboard navigation method with a physical keyboard integrated into the 3D pointing device. The keyboard is electrically connected to the processor and provides direct physical input capability, allowing users to type alpha-numeric information quickly and efficiently without having to navigate through virtual keyboards on the television screen. This maintains system compatibility while dramatically improving text entry speed and usability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances user interaction by providing a more intuitive and efficient way to navigate and select content, improving the user experience and facilitating the adoption of advanced media services by simplifying the selection process.
Implementation Method 1
at least one sensor mounted within the housing for detecting motion of the 3D pointing device and outputting motion data associated therewith
Data Source
AI summary
A 3D pointing device includes a keyboard for character entry. In pointing mode, data from at least one motion sensor is provided, e.g., to be transmitted to a user interface for movement of a cursor. In text entry mode, data from at least one depressed key is provided, e.g., to be transmitted to a user interface for display thereon.