Programmable Actuator for Network Terminal Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of network terminal device user interfaces, which require multiple user actions to achieve a desired result, stifles the growth of network-delivered services and products due to the contrast between decreasing device size and increasing network data and services.
Innovation Solution
A network terminal apparatus with an actuation means, network communication means, and memory that stores sequences of actions, destination parameters, and preference parameters, allowing a controller to execute these actions in response to a single actuation, simplifying the user interface by automating tasks such as data entry, network interactions, and information retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If network terminal devices are reduced in size, then portability and accessibility are improved, but the complexity of user interface operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-programs sequences of actions that automatically execute in response to a single user actuation. When a user presses an actuator, the controller recalls and executes a stored sequence of actions from memory, performing multiple operations (data entry, network communication, information retrieval) that would otherwise require multiple manual steps. This resolves the contradiction by compensating for reduced physical interface elements with automated action sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically executing complex sequences of operations without requiring continuous user intervention. The controller autonomously manages the execution of stored action sequences, handling data entry, network communication protocols, and information processing tasks that would otherwise require manual user actions, thereby simplifying the user interface despite device size reduction.
2Measurement precision
If multiple user actions are required to achieve a desired result, then precise control over network interactions is improved, but the complexity of user interface increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-programs sequences of actions with specific parameters (destination parameters, preference parameters) that define precise control requirements. These sequences are stored in memory and automatically executed when triggered, maintaining precise control over network interactions while eliminating the need for users to manually perform multiple complex steps. The precision is preserved in the automated sequence design rather than requiring complex user interface operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the simple user actuation and the complex network interaction sequence. It translates a single user action into a coordinated sequence of precise operations, managing data entry, network communication protocols, and information retrieval tasks. This intermediary role maintains control precision while shielding the user from interface complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional computer interfaces are used in network terminal devices, then functional capability is improved, but device size and usability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements multi-functionality by enabling a single actuator to trigger multiple different action sequences depending on the context and stored parameters. The same physical interface element can perform various network operations (data retrieval, communication, information display) by recalling different pre-programmed sequences from memory, thereby providing conventional computer-like functional capability without requiring a full keyboard and display interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The system copies the essential functionality of conventional computer interfaces into compact form by storing action sequences in memory that replicate complex interaction patterns. Instead of requiring physical keyboards and displays, the device uses stored action sequences to reproduce the functional capabilities of full interfaces, enabling versatile network operations in a compact form factor.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for obtaining preferred information from a network by execution of a sequence of actions in response to a single actuation in a network terminal device. A sequence of actions is programmed in network terminal device. The sequence of actions are executed in response to a single actuation if a softkey. A network destination parameter and a user preference parameter are also programmed. The sequence of actions includes coupling a destination parameter into the network, upon receipt of a network reply message corresponding to said destination parameter, coupling a preference parameter into the network, and upon receipt of the preferred information from the network, outputting the preferred information from the network terminal device.