Information Processing Device Input Allocation for Multiple Users
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Solution Overview
Problem
In situations where multiple users simultaneously interact with information processing devices, such as smart phones and tablets, there is a need for a mechanism to identify and direct input information to the correct application being manipulated by each user, as multiple targets (applications) may operate simultaneously, making it difficult to determine the appropriate input destination for user inputs.
Innovation Solution
An information processing device and method that includes an acquiring unit to identify and acquire input information from multiple target regions and a control unit to associate each application with a target region, allowing the input information to be allocated to the corresponding application, using techniques like microphone arrays to estimate the arrival direction of acoustic information and associate it with the appropriate application based on the context and state of the applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple applications operate simultaneously to support multiple users, then the device's versatility and collaborative capability are improved, but it becomes difficult to identify and direct input information to the correct application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sound collection space into multiple target regions (first target region, second target region, etc.) corresponding to different applications. Each region is assigned to a specific application, allowing the system to segment the input space and identify which application should receive input based on the direction from which the input originates. This resolves the contradiction by providing a clear spatial mapping between multiple simultaneous applications and their respective input zones.
2Area of stationary object
If the screen size is enlarged to accommodate multiple users, then the device's collaborative functionality is improved, but the precision of identifying input sources from different directions becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension (directional information) to differentiate between multiple input sources. Instead of relying solely on temporal sequencing or positional touch data, the system uses the directional dimension to identify which application should receive input. This additional dimensional information maintains measurement precision even as the screen area expands to support multiple users simultaneously.
3Productivity
If multiple users input information simultaneously to different applications, then the productivity and collaborative efficiency are improved, but the complexity of managing and routing input information increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different properties (target regions) to different spatial locations or directions. Each target region is locally associated with a specific application, creating a localized input routing rule. This allows the system to manage multiple simultaneous inputs efficiently by applying simple local rules (if input comes from region X, route to application Y) rather than complex global routing logic, thereby maintaining low complexity while supporting high productivity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables effective input of information from multiple users to the intended applications even in scenarios where multiple users are interacting simultaneously, ensuring that inputs are accurately directed to the correct applications, improving user interaction and device functionality in collaborative environments.
Implementation Method 1
using techniques like microphone arrays to estimate the arrival direction of acoustic information and associate it with the appropriate application based on the context and state of the applications
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program which are capable of inputting information input by a plurality of users to targets manipulated by the users even in a situation in which the plurality of users perform manipulations at the same time, the information processing device including: an acquiring unit configured to identify and acquire input information from each of a plurality of target regions serving as acquisition sources of the input information, for each of the target regions; and a control unit configured to associate each of at least one or more applications with any of the plurality of target regions, and allocate the input information acquired from the target region to the application associated with the target region.