Software Key Arrangement Control for Visual Impairment Accessibility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Automatic rearrangement of software keys on a screen in information processing apparatuses can deteriorate operability for users who rely on memorized positions and arrangements of keys, such as blind or low-vision users.
Innovation Solution
The method involves controlling an information processing apparatus to prevent automatic rearrangement of software keys when the voice reading function is enabled, thereby maintaining a fixed arrangement that users with visual impairments can memorize and navigate easily.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If software keys are automatically rearranged on the menu screen based on apparatus state, then users who can view the screen can easily find desired keys, but users who rely on memorized positions (such as blind or low-vision users) experience deteriorated operability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the software key arrangement adaptable and changeable based on detected apparatus states. The control unit automatically rearranges software keys on the menu screen according to the current state of the information processing apparatus, allowing the interface to dynamically adjust to different operational contexts while maintaining usability for users who can see the screen.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by providing different arrangement strategies for different users based on their visual capabilities. Visually impaired users receive announcements of software key positions through audio output, while other users benefit from visual display of the arranged keys. This localized adaptation to different user needs resolves the contradiction between ease of finding keys and adaptability to different user requirements.
2Productivity
If the arrangement of software keys is changed based on apparatus state, then operability is improved for viewing users, but the fixed arrangement that blind or low-vision users rely on is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing automatic rearrangement of software keys based on detected apparatus states. The control unit monitors the state of the information processing apparatus and dynamically reorganizes the menu screen to prioritize frequently used or context-relevant functions, thereby improving productivity for users who can observe the screen.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies feedback by providing audio announcements to visually impaired users about the positions and arrangement orders of software keys. The system detects when a visually impaired user is present and provides verbal feedback describing the key layout, allowing these users to maintain a stable mental model of the interface while the system adapts to their needs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If automatic rearrangement is implemented to improve user experience, then visually impaired users may benefit from audio announcements, but the overall system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by implementing a multi-functional control unit that serves multiple purposes: detecting apparatus state, determining user visual capability, arranging software keys appropriately, and providing audio announcements when needed. This universal approach consolidates multiple functions into a single control mechanism, managing system complexity while supporting diverse user requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the output modality based on detected user characteristics. When a visually impaired user is detected, the system changes the information delivery parameter from visual display to audio announcement, providing position and arrangement order information verbally. This parameter adaptation enables accessibility without requiring completely separate system architectures.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An information processing apparatus does not automatically rearrange buttons in a menu screen when an accessibility function of the apparatus is enabled.