Focus Session System with Notification Filtering
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Solution Overview
Problem
The modern work environment is hindered by electronic distractions, making it difficult for users to focus on tasks due to notifications from desktop and mobile devices, which disrupt productivity and hinder task management.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for scheduling and managing electronic focus sessions, involving a computer-readable storage device with executable instructions that display a focus session window with a timer, task pane, and music pane, allowing users to set a focus session duration, initiate a focus session, and automatically play music, while filtering electronic notifications based on sender, content, and application origin.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If users access multiple electronic devices for work and communication, then connectivity and information access are improved, but electronic notifications and distractions increase, reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and isolates the distraction element (electronic notifications) from the work environment by implementing a notification filtering system that blocks notifications during focus sessions, allowing users to maintain device connectivity while eliminating productivity-destroying interruptions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by requiring users to proactively schedule focus sessions in advance, creating predetermined time blocks for deep work before distractions can occur, thereby preparing the system to automatically block notifications during these pre-planned productivity windows
2Ease of operation
If users attempt to manage tasks amidst electronic distractions, then task management capability is maintained, but ability to concentrate and complete tasks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the workday into distinct focus sessions with defined start and end times, creating isolated time blocks dedicated to specific tasks, which helps users manage tasks more effectively by concentrating attention on one task at a time without interruption from other electronic communications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system (the focus session manager and notification filter) that mediates between the user's task management needs and the distracting electronic notifications, automatically blocking notifications during focus sessions to protect task completion while maintaining overall task management capability
3Adaptability or versatility
If users work without structured focus periods, then flexibility is maintained, but uninterrupted time for deep work decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making focus sessions flexible and adaptable rather than rigid, allowing users to schedule sessions at varying times and durations based on their individual productivity patterns and task requirements, thereby maintaining flexibility while ensuring dedicated uninterrupted work time is actually captured
Data Source
AI summary
In non-limiting examples of the present disclosure, systems, methods and devices for initiating and managing electronic focus sessions are provided. A focus session window may be displayed. The focus session window may comprise a timer pane comprising a focus session duration input element; a task pane comprising an identity of at least one task object created by a task management application; a music pane comprising an identity of at least one music playlist; and/or a daily progress pane that includes a goal display element indicating a duration of time spent in focus sessions for a current day. An indication to initiate a focus session may be received. The initiating may comprise causing a timer for the duration of time to be initiated and displayed in the timer pane and causing one of the music playlists to be automatically played.