Tangible User Interface NFC Tags for Mobile Device Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile communications devices and assistive technologies do not adequately address the complexity of digital and physical interfaces for users with physical and cognitive limitations, failing to provide a comprehensive solution that simplifies navigation and communication needs for users and their carers.
Innovation Solution
A communication and control system comprising a Mobile Communications Device (MCD) and a Tangible User Interface (TUI) that uses NFC tags with images for task execution, allowing users to perform communication, notification, entertainment, and house control tasks without button pressing, with the MCD wirelessly charging on the TUI and updating task icons remotely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mobile communications devices with standard interfaces are used, then full functionality is available, but the interface complexity becomes too difficult for users with physical and cognitive limitations to navigate
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the complex mobile device interface into simple, discrete NFC tags with images representing specific functions. Instead of requiring users to navigate through multiple menus and digital interfaces, each function (calling, messaging, emergency contact) is represented by a separate, clearly labeled image tag that users can directly interact with by placing the device nearby.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces NFC tags with images as an intermediary between the user and the complex mobile device interface. These tags serve as a simplified mediation layer that translates user intent into device commands without requiring users to directly interact with the complicated operating system or application interfaces.
2Ease of operation
If simplified versions of mobile devices are created to address individual problems, then specific issues are solved, but the overall system becomes more expensive due to multiple separate solutions
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses universal NFC tags that can represent multiple functions and be configured for different users' needs. The same basic tag technology serves communication functions, emergency contacts, entertainment controls, and other purposes, allowing a single versatile system to address multiple user requirements rather than requiring separate specialized devices for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is dynamically configurable to adapt to different users and situations. NFC tags can be customized with different images and functions based on individual user needs, and the system can be updated or reconfigured without requiring new hardware, making it adaptable to changing requirements while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
3Extent of automation
If digital interfaces are used for all functions, then automation is high, but users with physical limitations find navigation too complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex digital interface navigation with a simple physical interaction - placing the mobile device near an NFC tag with an image. This substitutes the mechanical action of tapping or selecting from digital menus with a more intuitive proximity-based interaction that maintains high automation while dramatically simplifying the user's physical and cognitive burden.
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
The system simplifies navigation and communication for users with physical and cognitive limitations by grouping functions intuitively, enabling easy task execution and monitoring, thus improving user experience and carer support through clear labeling and habit formation.
Implementation Method 1
The tag information is acquired by near field communication when the mobile communications device is placed in close proximity to one of the images
Implementation Method 2
a wireless charging unit connected with a wire to an internal battery pack
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention is a communication and control system comprising of a Mobile Communications Device (MCD), that may be in the form of a smartphone, and a Tangible User Interface (TUI), that may be in the form of a light portable board, further comprising of methods that remove the complexity of physical and digital user navigation by eliminating the end-user's need to press any buttons, or the touchscreen of the MCD, through wireless communication between the MCD and TUI. The methods allow the end-user to interact with the system for communicative, notification, house control and entertainment purposes.