Voice And Overlay User Interfaces for Faster Computer Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing techniques for controlling computer systems using electronic devices are cumbersome and inefficient, often requiring multiple key presses and wasting time and energy, particularly in battery-operated devices.

Innovation Solution

Implement methods and interfaces that utilize movement components to detect interactions and adjust positions based on interaction types, and manage voice inputs and display content efficiently, reducing cognitive burden and conserving power.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If existing techniques are used to control computer systems, then the system can be operated, but the user interface becomes complex and time-consuming requiring multiple key presses

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser interface control efficiencyVSAvoiduser interface complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical keyboard input with voice-based interaction. The speech-to-text module converts spoken commands into text inputs, eliminating the need for physical key presses and reducing interface complexity while maintaining system control capabilities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an overlay interface as an intermediary layer between the user and the underlying application. This overlay provides a simplified command structure that translates user intent into specific actions, reducing the cognitive load and number of steps required to perform tasks

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If existing techniques are used to control computer systems, then the system can be operated, but more time is wasted and device energy is consumed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinteraction efficiencyVSAvoidtime for control operations

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system activates the speech-to-text module and overlay interface in advance, preparing the interaction framework before user commands are given. This allows for faster processing of user intent and reduces the time required to execute commands

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

Voice-based interaction eliminates the time required for multiple key presses and manual navigation through complex interfaces. Spoken commands are processed and executed more quickly, reducing overall interaction time and energy consumption

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS20260072954A1User interfaces and techniques for interactions

Publication Date: 2026.03.12 APPLE INC

AI summary

The present disclosure generally relates to user interfaces.