State Machine Model for Voice-Interaction Device Behavior
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing voice-interaction devices face complexity in dynamically configuring behaviors based on user intent and external stimuli, requiring sophisticated conditional logic that is difficult to manage and customize.
Innovation Solution
A state machine model is implemented, allowing for dynamic configuration of device behavior through a network-based support service that receives and executes state machine code, enabling users and developers to visually specify states, transitions, and associated actions, including custom code modules, to manage device activities and interactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex conditional logic is used to respond to stimuli based on current context, then the device can respond as desired by the developer, but the software complexity increases and becomes difficult to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the device's behavior into discrete states and state transitions. Each state represents a specific context or mode of operation, and transitions between states are triggered by external stimuli. This segmentation transforms complex conditional logic into a manageable state machine model where each state has defined behaviors and transition conditions, making the software easier to manage while maintaining reliable responses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic state machine configuration system that allows states, transitions, and associated actions to be modified at runtime. The device can dynamically load new state machine definitions from external sources, enabling flexible adaptation of behavior without recompiling the entire software system. This dynamic approach maintains response accuracy while reducing software complexity through modular, configurable state definitions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the device is configured to perform various activities with interdependent behaviors, then the device functionality increases, but the difficulty of customization and management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal state machine framework that can model multiple different activities and behaviors within a single unified system. The state machine model provides a common language and structure for representing diverse device functions, from media playback to home automation to speech processing. This universality enables enhanced device functionality while maintaining ease of customization through a consistent modeling approach across all activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables copying and reuse of state machine configurations through external definitions that can be stored and redistributed. State machine models can be defined once and then instantiated multiple times or modified for different contexts, making customization easier. The external representation of state machines allows developers to copy, paste, and adapt existing state definitions rather than creating complex interdependent behaviors from scratch.
3Productivity
If multiple state machines are executed concurrently for different activities, then the device responsiveness improves, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the overall device behavior into multiple independent state machines, each responsible for a specific activity or function. This segmentation allows concurrent execution of multiple state machines without the complexity of managing a single monolithic state machine. Each state machine maintains its own states and transitions, reducing system complexity while improving responsiveness through parallel processing of different activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a state machine manager or intermediary component that coordinates multiple concurrently executing state machines. This intermediary handles interactions between state machines, manages shared resources, and resolves conflicts without requiring direct complex interconnections between individual state machines. The intermediary layer simplifies system complexity while enabling concurrent execution and improved device responsiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
In a system in which an in-home audio device is supported by a network-based support service, certain aspects of the behavior of the audio device may be implemented as a state machine. A graphical user interface (GUI) may be provided by the support service to allow editing of a model representing the state machine of the device. Through the GUI, a user or developer can associate functions with states or state transitions of the state machine. In addition, the user or developer can associate custom code with individual states or state transitions of the state machine.