Cognitive Load-Based Query Result Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of communication devices, such as first responders, often face challenges in processing query results while engaged in strenuous or stressful activities, making it difficult to review auditory and visual outputs due to cognitive overload.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize sensors to determine a user's cognitive load, transmitting initial query results to an operator device when the load exceeds a threshold, allowing for revision and subsequent output of revised results back to the user via the user interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If query results are provided directly to users during strenuous or stressful activities, then information completeness is improved, but user cognitive burden increases making it difficult to review and process the information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system (operator device or automated processing system) that receives query results and filters/refines them before presenting to the user. This intermediary acts as a buffer between the information source and the cognitively burdened user, selecting only the most relevant information based on pre-defined criteria or operator judgment, thus maintaining information completeness while reducing cognitive burden.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the information processing task into multiple stages: initial query result generation, cognitive load assessment, selective filtering/refinement, and final presentation. By dividing the monolithic task of information delivery into discrete segments, the system can assess user state at each stage and adjust the information flow accordingly, preventing cognitive overload while ensuring critical information is conveyed.
2Loss of information
If all query results are transmitted to the user, then information availability is improved, but processing time increases due to user inability to review all results under stress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary filtering and refinement of query results before they reach the user. By pre-processing the information to identify and retain only the most critical or relevant results based on the query type, user profile, and situational context, the system eliminates the need for users to review unnecessary information, thus maintaining information availability while dramatically reducing processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service information filtering where automated algorithms or pre-configured operator guidelines automatically select and prioritize results without requiring user intervention. This self-service mechanism continuously monitors user cognitive load and dynamically adjusts the information filter, ensuring critical information is delivered promptly while non-urgent information is deferred or summarized.
3Ease of operation
If cognitive load monitoring and result allocation to operators is implemented, then user cognitive burden is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex manual cognitive processing with automated electronic systems that monitor cognitive load through sensors (e.g., eye tracking, heart rate variability, skin conductance) and algorithmically determine when operator intervention is needed. This substitution of mechanical/electronic automation for human cognitive judgment reduces the apparent system complexity from the user's perspective while actually shifting complexity to the automated monitoring and decision-making infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method with query device allocation. The method includes receiving, via a user interface of an electronic computing device, a user query, obtaining an initial result and determining a cognitive load of a user of the electronic computing device based on a characteristic from a sensor. The method further includes comparing the cognitive load to a cognitive load threshold, transmitting the initial result to an operator device when the cognitive load exceeds the cognitive load threshold, receive, from the operator device or another device, a revised result and outputting the revised result via the user interface.