Multi-Modal User Interface for Simultaneous Hands-Free and Handheld Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing user interfaces rely exclusively on hands-based input devices, which can be cumbersome and interrupt workflow, as they require users to shift attention and hands between devices to respond to prompts, especially when simultaneous input is needed.
Innovation Solution
A multi-input user interface that combines hands-based and hands-free input devices, allowing users to respond to prompts using devices like microphones and cameras while continuing to provide non-responsive input through keyboards or touchscreens, enabling simultaneous and intuitive interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If users respond to prompts using hands-based input devices, then input accuracy is improved, but workflow continuity deteriorates due to requiring attention shifts and hand movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines hands-based input devices (keyboard, mouse) with hands-free input devices (microphone, camera) into a unified input system. The UI framework integrates multiple input modalities so users can switch between typing and voice commands without interrupting workflow, resolving the contradiction between input accuracy and workflow continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The input system is designed to accept multiple types of input simultaneously - both hands-based inputs (keyboard strokes, mouse clicks) and hands-free inputs (voice commands, gestures). This multi-functional capability allows users to maintain workflow continuity while ensuring accurate input recognition through whichever modality is most appropriate for the current task.
2Measurement precision
If users shift attention to respond to prompts, then prompt response accuracy is improved, but task efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical action of shifting physical attention and hand movements to input devices with automated hands-free input recognition. Voice commands and gesture recognition systems automatically capture user intent without requiring physical repositioning or visual attention shifts, thereby maintaining accuracy while eliminating time loss.
3Measurement precision
If users use hands-based input devices exclusively, then input precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates when simultaneous input is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The input system is segmented into independent hands-based and hands-free input channels that can operate simultaneously without interference. The UI framework processes keyboard inputs, mouse inputs, voice commands, and gesture inputs as separate streams, allowing users to type while speaking or gesture without one modality compromising the precision or operation of the other.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes receiving a first input through a hands-based input device. A prompt is then output, and input responsive to the prompt may be received through either of a hands-based input device or a hands-free input device. Responsive to receiving a second input through a hands-free input device, a determination that the second input is responsive to the prompt may be made, an operation based on the second input may be performed, and cessation of the output of the prompt may occur.