Hierarchical Vehicle User Interface Menu Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle user interfaces have become overly complex, making it difficult for drivers to access and control various functions without being distracted, as they require multiple options and adjustments, which can lead to increased complexity and reduced usability.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize hierarchically structured data subsets and modes of operation to create a user interface with varying levels of complexity, allowing for rapid access to frequently used functions while minimizing distractions, by automatically selecting the most appropriate mode of operation based on user input or vehicle state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the user menu includes all vehicle functions and options, then the system provides complete functionality, but the interface complexity increases making it difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the user menu into multiple hierarchical levels (first level, second level, etc.), where each level displays a subset of functions. This allows complete functionality to be available across all levels while keeping each individual display simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hierarchical dimension to the menu structure, organizing functions across multiple levels rather than displaying all functions in a single flat view. This dimensional organization resolves the contradiction by distributing complexity across levels while maintaining accessibility to all functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the user menu provides multiple options and adjustment possibilities, then individual user needs are met, but the control operation becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by displaying only a subset of functions at each menu level rather than all functions simultaneously. Users can access personalized options when needed while routine operations remain accessible through simplified views, reducing control time for common tasks.
3Ease of operation
If the driver can access and control all vehicle devices, then complete control is achieved, but driver distraction increases during the journey
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the menu into hierarchical levels with different function subsets, the patent reduces the cognitive load and visual complexity presented to the driver at any given time. This segmentation allows complete control capability while minimizing distraction through simplified displays.
4Loss of information
If the user interface displays all available functions, then information completeness is achieved, but the driver cannot quickly access frequently used functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares the interface by organizing functions into hierarchical levels in advance, with frequently used functions positioned at accessible levels. This preliminary organization enables quick access to common functions while maintaining the option to access less frequently used functions at other levels, achieving both speed and completeness.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for providing a user interface, particularly in a vehicle, in which a structured volume of data is stored which relates to the scope of functions of at least one function. At least two hierarchically related modes of operation are predetermined which each produce and each at least partially display a user menu with controllable graphic objects on the basis of a predetermined subset of the structured volume of data, wherein a hierarchically higher mode of operation is based on a hierarchically higher subset of the structured volume of data.