Gesture-Based Media File Selection and Modification

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for manipulating data files, particularly audio and video files, on small form factor devices are cumbersome, making it difficult to select portions or alter attributes using single contiguous gestures.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a single-touch media selection method on computing devices equipped with input devices that allow users to perform a series of contiguous gestures to select specific portions of data files or alter attributes, using vector values from input devices like touchpads or touch-sensitive displays, and applying pre-defined commands based on gesture analysis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional multi-step methods are used to manipulate media files on small devices, then file manipulation functionality is achieved, but user operation complexity and time consumption increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefile manipulation easeVSAvoidmanipulation time

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the media file into multiple selectable portions along its timeline, allowing users to independently select and manipulate different segments. This segmentation enables precise control over file portions without requiring complex multi-step selection processes, directly improving ease of operation while reducing manipulation time through intuitive gesture-based segment selection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically generating thumbnail previews and structural analysis of media files before user interaction. This pre-processing allows users to quickly identify and select desired portions without manual scanning, significantly reducing manipulation time and improving ease of operation on small devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Volume of moving object

If small form factor devices are used for media manipulation, then portability is improved, but input device functionality and gesture recognition capability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidgesture recognition capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal gesture recognition system that handles multiple media manipulation functions through a single touch interface. The touch-sensitive display serves multiple purposes: displaying media content, receiving selection gestures, and providing visual feedback, eliminating the need for separate input devices and maintaining versatility despite small device size.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces visual thumbnails and timeline representations as intermediary elements between the user and the media file. These intermediaries translate complex media structures into simple visual forms that can be easily manipulated through basic touch gestures, compensating for the limited input capabilities of small devices while maintaining full functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11567640B2Gesture-alteration of media files

Publication Date: 2023.01.31 AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I L P

AI summary

Gestures allow selection and alteration of media files. A video file is graphically illustrated on a touch sensitive display. A gesture input is received at a point of contact on the touch sensitive display and ends with disengagement of the touch sensitive display. A vector is determined from the point of contact to the disengagement of the touch sensitive display. The video file is then modified in response to the vector.