Display Apparatus Operator Pointer Association

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing information processing apparatuses designed for single-operator use face challenges in maintaining operability when multiple operators interact with multiple pointers on a single screen, as it becomes difficult to distinguish which operator is controlling which pointer.

Innovation Solution

The apparatus employs a recognition unit to detect operators and their hand movements using a stereo camera, displaying association information such as lines connecting operator icons and pointer icons to clearly indicate which operator is controlling each pointer, and dynamically updates the display based on hand gestures and pointer movements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple pointers are displayed on one screen for multi-operator use, then the system supports multiple operators simultaneously, but it becomes difficult to perceive which operator is operating which pointer

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-operator supportVSAvoidpointer-operator association recognition
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The display screen is segmented into multiple display areas, with each area dedicated to showing pointers operated by specific operators. This spatial segmentation allows operators to easily identify which pointer belongs to them by viewing the pointer in their designated display area, resolving the confusion of multiple pointers on a single screen.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Association information is introduced as an intermediary element that connects operator icons to their corresponding pointers. This association information (such as lines or visual indicators) serves as a mediator that makes the relationship between operators and pointers explicit and easy to understand.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If multiple pointers are displayed on one screen, then multiple operators can operate simultaneously, but operability decreases due to difficulty in distinguishing pointers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimultaneous operation capabilityVSAvoidpointer identification
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The display is divided into multiple display areas, with each area showing pointers for specific operators. This segmentation maintains simultaneous operation capability while improving pointer identification by organizing pointers spatially according to their operators.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different display areas are assigned to different operators, giving each area a specific local quality or purpose. Operators can quickly identify their pointers by looking at their designated display area, improving ease of operation without reducing simultaneous operation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of operation

If association information is displayed to link operators and pointers, then pointer-operator recognition improves, but display complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepointer-operator association recognitionVSAvoiddisplay structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the display into multiple areas and placing association information within each area rather than showing all associations across the entire screen, the display structure becomes more manageable and less complex while still providing clear pointer-operator recognition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP2306272B1Information processing apparatus, method for controlling display and program for controlling display
Publication Date: 2020.01.22 SONY GROUP CORP
  • EP2306272B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2306272B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2306272B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A method, computer-readable storage medium, and apparatus for managing content presented on a display is provided. The method includes receiving signals representing first and second characteristics of a user, presenting first and second images on the display, the first and second images being respectively associated with the first and second characteristics, and presenting association information on the display, the association information indicating an association between the first and second images.