Computer-Generated Macros With Voice Invocation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users face repetitive, time-consuming, and error-prone tasks when performing similar sequences of actions in applications, leading to potential typographical errors and formatting inconsistencies.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of computer-generated macros that can be invoked using voice input or user interface triggers, allowing users to automate repetitive action sequences and apply them in various contexts without opening the associated application.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If users manually perform repetitive action sequences, then they can complete tasks with full control, but time consumption increases and error rates rise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror rateVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically monitors user actions and generates macro recommendations without requiring user intervention. The macro engine self-activates when trigger conditions are met, performing tasks autonomously based on predefined criteria, thereby reducing both time consumption and error rates in repetitive tasks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical repetition of actions is replaced by an automated macro execution system. The system substitutes human manual operations with automated software execution, eliminating the trade-off between control and efficiency by providing both automation and user oversight capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If macros are created for automation, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomation efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically monitors user actions and generates macro recommendations without requiring user intervention. The macro engine self-activates when trigger conditions are met, performing tasks autonomously based on predefined criteria, thereby reducing both time consumption and error rates in repetitive tasks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates simplified copies of complex action sequences in the form of macros. These macro copies encapsulate multi-step procedures into single executable units, increasing productivity while managing complexity through abstraction and standardized interfaces

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Ease of operation

If voice input triggers are used, then ease of operation improves, but recognition accuracy may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinvocation convenienceVSAvoidvoice recognition accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system supports multiple trigger types including voice input, keyboard shortcuts, and menu selections. This multi-functional trigger system allows users to choose the most appropriate input method for their situation, balancing ease of operation with recognition accuracy by providing alternative activation methods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20240403083A1Computer-generated macros and voice invocation techniques
Publication Date: 2024.12.05 MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGY LICENSING LLC
  • US20240403083A1 patent drawing
  • US20240403083A1 patent drawing
  • US20240403083A1 patent drawing

AI summary

In examples, a set of actions performed by a user is identified as an action sequence. If user performance of the same action sequence or similar action sequences exceeds a predetermined threshold, a recommendation to create a macro may be generated. The macro may have one or more associated triggers, such that it may be invoked using voice input or via a user interface, among other examples. A macro may have an associated context in which it applies. In some instances, a trigger used to invoke the macro comprises an indication as to such a context. For example, the macro may be invoked in the context of a document, such that one or more document parts are processed accordingly. As another example, the macro may be invoked to process multiple documents, as may be related in subject matter or associated with the same application.