Proximity-Based Device-to-Device UI Porting for Ergonomic Strain Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Workers in warehousing and distribution facilities experience optical and physical strain due to repetitive device interface usage, making it impractical to access information while performing tasks, especially when hands are occupied with products.
Innovation Solution
A system for proximity device-to-device user interface management, where a primary device pairs with an assistive device within a predetermined range, allowing the assistive device to display relevant information, such as task instructions or completion status, to reduce the need for the user to constantly view the primary device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If workers use mobile devices or wearables for guiding workflows and displaying information, then task completion accuracy is improved, but optical strain and physical strain in the neck and shoulder area increase due to repetitive device interface usage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension by positioning a second device (e.g., overhead display, robotic arm-mounted display, or augmented reality overlay) at a different spatial location than the primary handheld device. This allows task information to be displayed in the worker's peripheral or upper visual field, eliminating the need to repeatedly低头 (look down) at the handheld device and reducing neck strain while maintaining task completion accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a second device as an intermediary between the worker and the task information. This intermediary device receives data from the primary device and presents it in an ergonomically optimized format and location, such as an overhead display showing task instructions or an AR overlay providing step-by-step guidance without requiring the worker to look down at a handheld device.
2Manufacturing precision
If workers frequently check their device interface to ensure proper task completion, then task accuracy is improved, but productivity decreases due to time loss from repeated device access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous display of task information and real-time feedback through the second device, allowing workers to monitor task completion status without breaking their workflow to check the primary device. The second device provides continuous visual feedback on task progress, accuracy, and next steps, eliminating interruptions and maintaining continuous productive action.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements real-time feedback mechanisms where the second device immediately displays task completion status, correctness verification, and next action instructions. This continuous feedback loop allows workers to verify task accuracy without pausing to check the primary device, maintaining both high accuracy and productivity through immediate information delivery.
3Productivity
If workers hold products or boxes with both hands to perform tasks, then task execution is improved, but device accessibility deteriorates making it impractical to access the device interface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the information display function from the handheld primary device and transfers it to a second device that does not require manual holding or close proximity. The second device (overhead display, wall-mounted screen, or AR headset) provides all necessary task information independently, allowing workers to use both hands for product handling without compromising device accessibility or information availability.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for proximity device to device user interface management are disclosed. The systems and methods include a primary user device displaying variable data to a user assigned one or more tasks to be performed. In response to determining that the primary user device is within a predetermined range of an assistive device, the systems and methods pair the two devices, identify task data and/or other data, and modify a user interface displayed on the assistive device, where the modification occurs from device to device communication of displayed variable data and results in variable data from the primary user device being displayed on the assistive device.