Context-Aware Videoconference Rejoin Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current user interfaces for devices like videoconferencing units and gaming consoles are overly complex, requiring users to frequently switch attention between the display and remote control, leading to frustrating interactions.
Innovation Solution
A simple remote control device with fewer than 8 inputs, such as directional keys and a confirmation button, is designed to allow intuitive interaction without needing to look at the remote, paired with user interfaces that adapt to activities and contexts, enabling features like rejoining videoconferences and camera control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a remote control device with multiple buttons and overloaded functionality is used, then more functions can be controlled, but the user interface becomes complex and requires users to frequently look at the remote control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the remote control functionality into a minimal set of essential buttons (power, volume, channel, mute) and implements context-sensitive menu systems that appear on the display. This allows the remote to maintain versatility through software-based function selection rather than physical buttons, resolving the contradiction between functionality and physical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universal remote control capabilities through a context-aware system that automatically adapts to different devices and functions. A single simplified remote design can control multiple devices (TV, cable box, gaming console) by detecting context and presenting appropriate controls on the display, eliminating the need for device-specific remotes while maintaining versatility.
2Ease of operation
If users frequently switch attention between display and remote control, then they can operate the device, but user experience becomes frustrating and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the display itself as an intermediary between the user and the device controls. Context-sensitive menus and information are presented directly on the display, eliminating the need for users to look at the remote control. The display acts as a mediator that provides all necessary control information and feedback, allowing users to operate the system with continuous visual attention on the display.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements immediate visual feedback on the display that confirms user actions and shows device state without requiring users to check the remote control. When users press buttons, the display immediately reflects the result (volume changes, channel changes, menu selections), providing continuous feedback that maintains user awareness and eliminates attention switching.
3Ease of operation
If the remote control has fewer than 8 inputs, then the interaction becomes simpler and more intuitive, but fewer direct control functions are available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic menu systems that adapt to context and user needs. Instead of static button layouts, the control interface dynamically generates menus based on the current device state, selected function, and user preferences. This allows a minimal physical remote to access extensive control functions through adaptive software interfaces that evolve with usage context.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves control functionality from the one-dimensional physical remote control to the two-dimensional display interface. Context-sensitive menus, icons, and control options are presented on the display screen, utilizing the visual dimension to provide comprehensive control capabilities that would require many physical buttons if implemented on the remote itself.
Data Source
AI summary
System and method involving user interfaces and remote control devices. These user interfaces may be particularly useful for providing an intuitive and user friendly interaction between a user and a device or application using a display, e.g., at a “10 foot” interaction level. The user interfaces may be specifically designed for interaction using a simple remote control device having a limited number of inputs. For example, the simple remote control may include directional inputs (e.g., up, down, left, right), a confirmation input (e.g., ok), and possibly a mute input. The user interface may be customized based on current user activity or other contexts (e.g., based on current or previous states), the user logging in (e.g., using a communication device), etc. Additionally, the user interface may allow the user to adjust cameras whose video are not currently displayed, rejoin previously left videoconferences, and/or any of a variety of desirable actions.