Multidimensional Data Input Interface for Simultaneous Parameter Entry

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing computer user interfaces require users to interact with multiple data entry elements repeatedly to input and adjust multiple data parameters, which can be tedious and counter-intuitive, especially when parameters are conceptually related.

Innovation Solution

A multidimensional input interface is provided, where a user can input multiple data parameters with a single selection within a graphical interface defined by dimensional nodes, with each node corresponding to input parameters, allowing for rapid and intuitive entry of data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple data entry elements are provided to receive various data parameters, then the application can configure multiple parameters, but the user must repeatedly interact with several data entry elements which is tedious and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter configuration capabilityVSAvoiduser interaction efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separate data entry elements into a single integrated data entry element that can receive multiple data parameters simultaneously. This merging approach allows users to input multiple parameters through one unified interface rather than interacting with multiple separate elements, directly resolving the contradiction between parameter configuration capability and user interaction efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single data entry element is designed to perform multiple functions by accepting different types of data parameters (e.g., positional information, directional information, and other parameters) through a unified interface. This multi-functional design enables the element to replace multiple specialized input elements while maintaining comprehensive parameter configuration capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If diverse data entry elements are used for different data parameters, then each parameter can have specialized input, but the user finds interacting with diverse elements counter-intuitive when parameters are conceptually related

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter-specific input capabilityVSAvoidintuitiveness of interaction
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The single data entry element incorporates different input regions or zones within its structure, where each region corresponds to a specific parameter type. This local differentiation allows the element to provide parameter-specific input capabilities while maintaining a unified overall structure, making the interaction intuitive for conceptually related parameters

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces spatial dimensionality within the single data entry element by positioning different input regions in specific spatial arrangements that reflect the conceptual relationships between parameters. This dimensional organization allows users to intuitively understand parameter relationships through spatial positioning rather than navigating diverse separate elements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple data parameters require adjustment, then the application can adapt to changing requirements, but the user must perform additional interactions with data entry elements which is tedious

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter adjustment flexibilityVSAvoidtime for repeated interactions
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By merging multiple parameter adjustment capabilities into a single data entry element, the system allows users to adjust multiple parameters through one interaction point rather than repeatedly interacting with multiple separate elements, significantly reducing the time required for parameter adjustments while maintaining full flexibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8645864B1Multidimensional data input interface
Publication Date: 2014.02.04 NVIDIA CORP
  • US8645864B1 patent drawing
  • US8645864B1 patent drawing
  • US8645864B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the invention provide an interface for simultaneously inputting multiple data parameters for a software application. Generally, a single user input made using the input interface results in multiple data parameters being received by the application. In one embodiment, the input interface may be defined with a plurality of dimensional nodes, where each dimensional node corresponds to a dimension of input that may be specified for the software application using the input interface.