Dynamic Operation Input Allocation for Small Information Processors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Small-sized information processing apparatuses face limitations in executing multiple functions simultaneously due to restricted space for operation devices, where existing solutions do not dynamically allocate operation inputs to the functions being executed.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus with a reproduction section, communication control section, operation input allocation section, and display control section, which allows simultaneous execution of content reproduction and communication functions, dynamically allocating operation inputs from one operation section to either the reproduction or communication function based on the displayed information.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple functions are executed simultaneously in a small-sized apparatus, then functional versatility is improved, but operation input allocation becomes complex and difficult to manage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional versatilityVSAvoidoperation input allocation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic allocation of operation inputs to functions based on current execution state. The allocation is not fixed but changes automatically depending on which functions are currently being executed, allowing the system to adapt to different operational contexts without requiring complex manual configuration or multiple dedicated operation devices for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If operation inputs are allocated to multiple functions in a small-sized apparatus, then ease of operation is improved, but function management complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation input accessibilityVSAvoidfunction management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically manages operation input allocation without requiring user intervention. The apparatus itself determines and assigns operation inputs to appropriate functions based on current execution states, eliminating the need for complex user-side management while maintaining ease of operation. The allocation mechanism is self-regulating and adaptive.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Volume of moving object

If a single operation device is shared across multiple functions, then device miniaturization is achieved, but operation input reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapparatus sizeVSAvoidoperation input reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the parameter of operation input allocation from static to dynamic based on function execution state. By adjusting which function receives the operation input according to current system state, the same physical operation device can reliably serve multiple functions without ambiguity. The reliability is maintained through state-dependent parameter changes in allocation logic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10511647B2Information processing apparatus, information processing method and program
Publication Date: 2019.12.17 SONY GROUP CORP
  • US10511647B2 patent drawing
  • US10511647B2 patent drawing
  • US10511647B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus capable of simultaneously executing a reproduction function of content data and a communication function with an external apparatus includes a reproduction section configured to execute the reproduction function, a communication control section configured to execute the communication function using a communication section, an operation input allocation section configured to allocate an operation input from a first operation section to the reproduction function or the communication function, an operation input acquisition section configured to acquire an operation input from a second operation section, and a display control section configured to cause a display section to display information relating to the reproduction function or information relating to the communication function.