Stationary State Detection for Implicit User Interface Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional man-machine interfaces require explicit user attention and action, making them disruptive and cumbersome, as they rely on specific inputs or gestures for command detection, lacking natural and implicit interaction methods.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus equipped with a proximity sensor and motion sensor that detects a user's presence and stationary state, allowing for implicit interaction by monitoring movement and providing responses based on stillness detection, enabling unconscious control of external devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional input devices (keys, buttons, mouse, touch screen, microphone) are used for command detection, then specific user commands can be received, but user attention and consciousness are required making the interface disruptive and cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommand detection accuracyVSAvoiduser interaction naturalness
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-detection of user presence and stationary state without requiring explicit user input. The apparatus autonomously monitors its own motion state through motion sensors and determines when a user is present and stationary, enabling implicit control without traditional input devices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical input devices (keys, buttons, mouse, touch screen) with a motion-based detection system using accelerometers and gyroscopes to sense user presence and stationary state, substituting physical interaction with implicit motion detection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If explicit user input is required for control, then precise command detection is achieved, but the interface becomes cumbersome and requires continuous user attention

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommand recognition accuracyVSAvoiduser attention time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary detection of user presence and stationary state before executing control functions. By detecting the stationary state in advance, the system prepares to receive or execute commands without requiring continuous user attention or explicit input actions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional input devices are used, then specific commands can be explicitly controlled, but the interaction method becomes disruptive and annoying

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol functionalityVSAvoiduser interaction comfort
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The motion sensor system serves multiple functions: detecting user presence, determining stationary state, and enabling implicit control. This universal detection mechanism replaces multiple specialized input devices while maintaining control versatility through a single integrated system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables natural and intuitive user interaction by detecting stationary states to provide feedback and control external devices without requiring explicit user input, enhancing user experience and reducing attentional demands.

Implementation Method 1

An apparatus equipped with a proximity sensor and motion sensor that detects a user's presence

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectProximity sensing:

Implementation Method 2

motion sensor that detects a user's presence and stationary state, allowing for implicit interaction by monitoring movement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInertial sensing: Accelerometer

Data Source

PatentEP3387628B1Apparatus, system, and methods for interfacing with a user and/or external apparatus by stationary state detection
Publication Date: 2021.05.12 SOMNIQ
  • EP3387628B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3387628B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2B
  • EP3387628B1 patent drawingFigure 2C~2E

AI summary

Methods, apparatuses and systems for interfacing with a user based on the detection of a state, such as a stationary state, of the apparatus are described herein. An example method of interfacing with a user includes: detecting a user in proximity of an apparatus; entering a first mode of the apparatus responsive to detection of the user in proximity; receiving motion data from one or more sensors of the apparatus responsive to movement of the apparatus; and detecting a stationary state of the apparatus based on the motion data; and entering a second mode responsive to detection of the stationary state.