Companion Controller App for Cross-Device Activity Augmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users often face challenges when trying to perform tasks on electronic devices that are not optimally suited for the task at hand, such as lacking a keyboard or touch screen, leading to inefficiencies in using multiple devices for various activities.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device broadcasts a controller advertisement message over a wireless network, allowing companion devices to provide controller data for activities like keyboard input, touch screen control, or game control, enabling seamless task performance across devices without complex user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a user possesses multiple computing devices with different form factors, then the user can access computing capabilities across various devices, but the user may find themselves using a device that is ill-suited for a task being performed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables a computing device to perform multiple functions by allowing it to act as both a primary device and a controller for other devices. The first computing device can execute applications and simultaneously function as a controller for a second computing device, enabling the system to adapt to different task requirements without being limited by the form factor of any single device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a controller application as an intermediary that facilitates communication and control between different computing devices. This intermediary enables seamless task performance across devices by translating and routing control signals, allowing users to operate devices in ways that would otherwise require direct physical interaction with the target device.
2Device complexity
If a device lacks specific input controls like a keyboard or touch screen, then the device can be more portable and simpler, but the user cannot efficiently perform tasks requiring those controls
Solution Approach 1:
The controller application acts as an intermediary that bridges the gap between devices with different input capabilities. It receives input from the first device's available controls (such as voice commands, gestures, or connected peripherals) and translates these into appropriate control signals for the second device, effectively providing input capability without adding physical controls to the portable device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical input systems (physical keyboards, touch screens) with alternative control mechanisms such as voice recognition, gesture control, or wireless communication interfaces. This substitution allows users to access full input functionality without the bulk and complexity of traditional mechanical input devices.
3Device complexity
If a device lacks easily manipulated controls for controlling viewing or game playing, then the device can be smaller and more portable, but the user experience for media consumption or gaming is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The first computing device is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both a media consumption device and a universal controller for other devices. By implementing a controller application, the device gains the ability to control media playback, gaming, and other functions on the second device, making it a versatile all-in-one solution that doesn't require separate remote controls or specialized hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of media consumption and device control into a single integrated system. The controller application combines media control capabilities with the device's existing functions, allowing users to control external devices directly from the portable device without needing separate remote controls or additional hardware accessories.
Data Source
AI summary
The described embodiments augment an activity performed in a first application at a source electronic device using a controller at a companion electronic device. The source electronic device receives controller information describing a controller that the activity performed in the first application accepts controller data from, determines a controller identifier for the controller information, and broadcasts a controller advertisement comprising the controller identifier. Upon receiving the controller advertisement, the companion electronic device determines whether a second application that can provide the controller data is available at the companion electronic device. If the second application is available, the companion electronic device establishes a cooperative-activity communication channel with the source electronic device. The companion electronic device uses the cooperative-activity communication channel to provide controller data to the source electronic device. The source electronic device provides the controller data to the first application to cause a corresponding action to be performed.