Adaptive User Interfaces for External Device Control With Fewer Inputs

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing techniques for controlling external devices are cumbersome and inefficient, requiring multiple key presses or keystrokes, wasting user time and device energy, particularly in battery-operated devices, and do not effectively utilize accessibility settings for improved interaction.

Innovation Solution

A method for detecting user inputs to control external devices and displaying user interfaces based on accessibility settings, automatically displaying user interface objects when certain control criteria are met, and forgoing such displays when criteria are not met, thereby reducing redundant inputs and enhancing human-machine interface efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional control methods are used to control external devices, then comprehensive control functionality is achieved, but user time consumption and device energy consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol efficiencyVSAvoiduser time consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects accessibility settings and configures the appropriate user interface mode without requiring manual user configuration. The device serves itself by monitoring accessibility preferences and adapting the control interface accordingly, eliminating the need for users to manually switch between control modes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system pre-configures user interface objects based on detected accessibility settings before the user actually needs to control the external device. By anticipating the user's needs and preparing the appropriate interface in advance, the system reduces the time required for device control operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If traditional control methods are used to control external devices, then full control capability is maintained, but device energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol efficiencyVSAvoiddevice energy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the user interface configuration based on real-time detection of accessibility settings. Instead of maintaining a fixed interface structure, the system adapts its behavior and displayed objects according to the user's accessibility preferences, optimizing energy consumption by only activating necessary interface elements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters of the user interface based on accessibility settings detection. By modifying interface parameters such as visibility of certain controls, input methods, and interaction modes according to detected settings, the system reduces unnecessary processing and energy consumption while maintaining full control capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If comprehensive user interface objects are displayed for external device control, then full control functionality is available, but cognitive burden on user increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol functionalityVSAvoidcognitive burden

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies different interface qualities and configurations to different users based on their individual accessibility settings. Instead of providing a uniform comprehensive interface to all users, the system tailors the interface content and complexity to match each user's specific needs, reducing cognitive burden while maintaining necessary functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The user interface is segmented and organized based on detected accessibility settings, presenting only the relevant control objects and functions needed for the current user's situation. This segmentation reduces the overall complexity presented to the user while maintaining full control capability through organized, context-relevant interface elements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Adaptability or versatility

If manual configuration of accessibility settings is required, then precise control customization is achieved, but setup time and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinterface customizationVSAvoidconfiguration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects and responds to accessibility settings without requiring manual configuration by the user. The device monitors accessibility preferences and self-configures the appropriate control interface, eliminating the complexity of manual setup while maintaining precise customization based on detected settings

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS12386428B2User interfaces for device controls

Publication Date: 2025.08.12 APPLE INC

AI summary

The present disclosure generally relates to displaying user interfaces with device controls.