Unified Interface for Controlling Diverse Output Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of modern devices, such as projectors and electronic whiteboards, has increased operational difficulty and extended learning times due to advanced functions and varying user interfaces, making efficient information sharing challenging.
Innovation Solution
An information processing system comprising an intermediary device connected to output devices like projectors, a user terminal, and a server, which uses identification information from NFC tags or beacons to control the output devices for image projection, allowing users to operate devices through a standardized interface on their terminals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If advanced functions and multiple device types are added to improve functionality, then device capability and versatility are improved, but operation complexity and learning time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal control interface that can operate multiple different types of devices (projectors, electronic whiteboards, displays) through a single standardized application. This allows one interface to perform multiple functions across diverse device types, resolving the contradiction by providing versatile device control without requiring users to learn multiple device-specific interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal device acts as an intermediary between the user and the various output devices. Instead of users directly interacting with complex device panels, the terminal mediates the control signals and presents a simplified interface, reducing operation complexity while maintaining access to advanced device capabilities.
2Productivity
If device functions are advanced and diversified, then information sharing capability is improved, but user interface variation increases learning burden
Solution Approach 1:
The control application provides a unified interface that works across multiple device types and manufacturers, allowing efficient information sharing through projection and display while maintaining consistent operation methods. This eliminates the need to relearn interfaces for different devices, reducing learning time while preserving productivity benefits.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple device types with different interfaces are used to improve functionality, then system capability is enhanced, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the control interface functionality from the device-specific processing. The terminal device handles the user interface and communication protocols, while the actual output devices perform their specialized functions. This segmentation allows complex device capabilities to be accessed through a simplified interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal device serves as an intermediary that translates user inputs into device-specific commands. It maintains a standardized control interface while adapting to different device types, thereby preserving ease of operation while supporting diverse system capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus communicably connected with an intermediary device capable of communicating with at least one device, the information processing apparatus including: circuitry configured to receive, from a terminal operated by a user, identification information that the terminal has acquired from the extraneous source; and transmit a request for execution of a process associated with the acquired identification information to the intermediary device, the request for execution causing the intermediary device to execute the process according to the request for execution to control the device.