Automated Handedness Detection via Input Device Tracking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing computer systems are not capable of automatically determining user handedness, leading to inefficiencies and discomfort for left-handed users due to input devices and UI layouts optimized for right-handed individuals, resulting in user fatigue and decreased productivity.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that assesses user handedness by tracking the position and orientation of an input device in 3D space relative to objects, allowing for automatic configuration of input devices and UI elements to optimize functionality and convenience based on the user's handedness.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If input devices and UI layouts are optimized for right-handed users, then usability for the majority (90%) is improved, but usability for left-handed users deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveusabilityVSAvoidhandedness adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts UI layout and input device configuration based on real-time detection of user handedness. The interface transitions from a static right-handed optimization to a dynamic configuration that adapts to each user's dominant hand, allowing the same system to serve both right-handed and left-handed users effectively

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically detects user handedness through tracking input device position and orientation, and self-configures the UI layout without requiring manual user input. The system serves itself by identifying user characteristics and making appropriate adjustments autonomously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Loss of information

If manual handedness input is required at system initiation, then handedness information is obtained, but the system cannot detect user changes or new users

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandedness information accuracyVSAvoiduser change detection
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors input device position and orientation to detect changes in user handedness. This feedback mechanism allows the system to identify when a different user logs in or when handedness preferences change, automatically updating the UI configuration without requiring manual re-input

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical approach of manual user input with an automated optical/electronic tracking system. Instead of relying on users to manually enter their handedness, the system uses sensors and algorithms to detect and interpret user behavior patterns, substituting automated detection for manual configuration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Area of stationary object

If 3D objects are placed far from the user input device, then more display area is available, but user movement distance and fatigue increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay areaVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies different spatial arrangements to different regions of the interface based on the user's dominant hand. Frequently accessed objects and controls are positioned in the dominant hand's optimal reach zone, while less frequently used items are placed in peripheral areas, creating a localized optimization that balances display area with user convenience

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS9841821B2Methods for automatically assessing user handedness in computer systems and the utilization of such information
Publication Date: 2017.12.12 ZSPACE INC
  • US9841821B2 patent drawing
  • US9841821B2 patent drawing
  • US9841821B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In some embodiments, a system and/or method may assess handedness of a user of a system in an automated manner. The method may include displaying a 3D image on a display. The 3D image may include at least one object. The method may include tracking a position and an orientation of an input device in open space in relation to the 3D image. The method may include assessing a handedness of a user based on the position and the orientation of the input device with respect to at least one of the objects. In some embodiments, the method may include configuring at least a portion of the 3D image based upon the assessed handedness. The at least a portion of the 3D image may include interactive menus. In some embodiments, the method may include configuring at least a portion of an interactive hardware associated with the system based upon the assessed handedness.