Display KVM Switching Using Gaze Detection for Seamless Input Handover

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing KVM switches require manual interaction with an on-screen display menu to select the destination for peripheral input devices, which is cumbersome and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that uses a camera to detect an end user's gaze on a display to automatically switch peripheral input devices between multiple information handling systems, eliminating the need for manual OSD interactions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual interaction with OSD menu is used to select KVM switch destination, then the system can manage multiple information handling systems, but the operation becomes cumbersome and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveKVM switch operationVSAvoidTime to switch between systems

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical interaction with the OSD menu with automated gaze-based control. The camera detects user gaze direction and the system automatically switches input devices accordingly, eliminating the need for manual menu navigation and button presses.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs the KVM switching operation automatically based on detected gaze patterns. The user simply needs to gaze at the desired display area, and the system self-adjusts the input device routing without requiring explicit user commands or menu interactions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If automated gaze detection is implemented, then switching between information handling systems becomes seamless and rapid, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveSwitching speedVSAvoidSystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a camera as an intermediary device between the user and the KVM switch control. The camera captures gaze information and transmits it to the display controller, which then routes input devices appropriately. This intermediary approach enables automated control while maintaining a relatively simple system architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The display controller serves multiple functions: it processes video signals from multiple information handling systems, manages the KVM switch routing, and receives gaze detection data from the camera. By consolidating these functions in a single controller, the patent reduces overall system complexity despite the added automation capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12578805B2Information handling system display seamless KVM switch

Publication Date: 2026.03.17 DELL PROD LP

AI summary

A display KVM switch interfaces with peripheral input devices, such as keyboard and a mouse, to selectively switch inputs from the input devices to one of plural information handling systems simultaneously presenting visual images at the display. A camera monitors a viewing position of the display to detect end user gaze at a first area of the display that shows first visual images of a first information handling system and at a second area of the display that shows visual images of a second information handling system. Inputs are switched between the information handling systems when a gaze is detected at an area presented by the information handling system after a predetermined time period.