Showing papers on "Interface (computing) published in 1993"

Pad: an alternative approach to the computer interface

Abstract: We believe that navigation in information spaces is best supported by tapping into our natural spatial and geographic ways of thinking. To this end, we are developing a new computer interface model called Pad. The ongoing Pad project uses a spatial metaphor for computer interface design. It provides an intuitive base for the support of such applications as electronic marketplaces, information services, and on-line collaboration. Pad is an infinite two dimensional information plane that is shared among users, much as a network file system is shared. Objects are organized geographically; every object occupies a well defined region on the Pad surface. For navigation, Pad uses “portals” - magnifying glasses that can peer into and roam over different parts of this single infinite shared desktop; links to specific items are established and broken continually as the portal’s view changes. Portals can recursively look onto other portals. This paradigm enables the sort of peripheral activity generally found in real physical working environments. The apparent size of an object to any user determines the amount of detail it presents. Different users can share and view multiple applications while assigning each a desired degree of interaction. Documents can be visually nested and zoomed as they move back and forth between primary and secondary working attention. Things can be peripherally accessible. In this paper we describe the Pad interface. We discuss how to efficiently implement its graphical aspects, and we illustrate some of our initial applications.

Automated GUI interface testing

Abstract: A method for automated testing of both new and revised computer application programs which use a Graphical User Interface (GUI). Simulated user events such as keyboard or mouse actions are automatically input into the GUI interface. The GUI is then monitored to observes the changes to the GUI in response to the input. The invention comprises a test script which is written in a high level programming language, a test executive which executes the test script, and a test driver which provides the interface to the GUI. The test script is directed towards operation on logical objects, instead of GUI-specific references. The primary responsibility of the test executive is to convert GUI-independent references into GUI-specific references. The test driver takes the GUI-specific references from the test executive and performs the actual interface to the GUI objects. A uniform hierarchial naming scheme is employed to identify each Logical Screen Element (LSE) under test, LSEs being the objects used in the GUI environment to interface with the user.

Computer organization & design: the hardware/software interface

Abstract: Reading is a hobby to open the knowledge windows. Besides, it can provide the inspiration and spirit to face this life. By this way, concomitant with the technology development, many companies serve the e-book or book in soft file. The system of this book of course will be much easier. No worry to forget bringing the computer organization design the hardware software interface book. You can open the device and get the book by online.

System for locating and communicating with mobile vehicles

Abstract: A vehicle location system which provides a plurality of cellular systems that each includes a memory for identifying the cellular subscriber stations that are based in the particular system and visiting cellular subscriber stations based in another of the systems. The plurality of cellular systems include a roaming network that interconnects and transfers data in the memory relative to the presence of home and visiting cellular subscriber stations in the systems. An interface computer is provided to interconnect with at least one of the plurality of cellular systems. The interface computer accesses data in the roaming network relative to predetermined cellular subscriber stations. A location computer interconnects with the interface computer and translates the interface computer data relative to these predetermined cellular subscriber stations into location data that indicates the position of each cellular subscriber stations based upon the known position of the particular cellular system in which the subscriber station is currently registered. A user interface, that may include messaging systems and an electronic mail system, interconnect between a user and the location computer and allows access to location and related data relative to specified fleets of subscriber stations.

Glove-Talk: a neural network interface between a data-glove and a speech synthesizer

Abstract: To illustrate the potential of multilayer neural networks for adaptive interfaces, a VPL Data-Glove connected to a DECtalk speech synthesizer via five neural networks was used to implement a hand-gesture to speech system. Using minor variations of the standard backpropagation learning procedure, the complex mapping of hand movements to speech is learned using data obtained from a single 'speaker' in a simple training phase. With a 203 gesture-to-word vocabulary, the wrong word is produced less than 1% of the time, and no word is produced about 5% of the time. Adaptive control of the speaking rate and word stress is also available. The training times and final performance speed are improved by using small, separate networks for each naturally defined subtask. The system demonstrates that neural networks can be used to develop the complex mappings required in a high bandwidth interface that adapts to the individual user. >

Mass data storage and retrieval system

Abstract: A plurality of data storage modules form a library, with a directory archive maintaining a directory of the information contained on each data storage module (file server application) or on the storage modules retained in the library (volume server application). A plurality of interface computers are coupled to a plurality of host computers for receiving data and for generating request signals to access the library. In response to a received request signal, the directory archive locates a data storage module and generates a location output signal. A control computer receives the location output signal and generates a media access signal for causing the data storage module to be loaded into a selected data recorder. An input/output data channel couples the interface computer generating the access request signal to the selected data recorder for reading or writing an entire volume of information or selected file information to/from the data storage module. In this configuration, any interface computer has access to any drive and any drive has access to any stored media, thus providing both global media and global drive access.

Learning interface agents

Abstract: Interface agents are computer programs that employ Artificial Intelligence techniques in order to provide assistance to a user dealing with a particular computer application. The paper discusses an interface agent which has been modelled closely after the metaphor of a personal assistant. The agent learns how to assist the user by (i) observing the user's actions and imitating them, (ii) receiving user feedback when it takes wrong actions and (iii) being trained by the user on the basis of hypothetical examples. The paper discusses how this learning agent was implemented using memory-based learning and reinforcement learning techniques. It presents actual results from two prototype agents built using these techniques: one for a meeting scheduling application and one for electronic mail. It argues that the machine learning approach to building interface agents is a feasible one which has several advantages over other approaches: it provides a customized and adaptive solution which is less costly and ensures better user acceptability. The paper also argues what the advantages are of the particular learning techniques used.

Alpha Architecture Reference Manual

Abstract: Part 1: Common Architecture * Part 2: Specific Operating System PALcode Architecture * Part 3: Console Interface Architecture * Appendices

Computer windows management system and method for simulating off-screen document storage and retrieval

Abstract: A novel computer display interface which simulates familiar document handling activities based upon a unique display metaphor representative of a standard office filing system and work area of a desk. The display system includes multi-windows which are displayed in a central screen area designated for just active computer windows. The interface further includes designating the edge areas of the screen for displaying window tabs of inactive windows. The window tabs are arranged in a way to simulate an integrated filing system, and to provide a convenient method of organizing and viewing computer files.

Training end users: an experimental investigation of the roles of the computer interface and training methods

Abstract: End-user computing has become an area of major importance to organizations over the past several years. As non-professional computer users come to rely on computer systems to perform more and more of their basic tasks, MIS managers need to ensure that those individuals learn to use software packages effectively. Two common, and often complementary, approaches for achieving this goal have been to develop in-house training programs and to utilize computer systems that are "user friendly." Using Assimilation Theory a basis for this study, we investigate the impacts of two types of training methods and two computer interfaces on users' learning performance and attitudes toward a computer system. A laboratory experiment was conducted to compare a commonly used direct manipulation interface-DMI (the Apple Macintosh)-with a commonly used command-based interface-Disk Operating System (DOS). Each interface was presented to subjects by using either an exploration training approach or an instruction-based training approach. Results of the study indicate that individuals using the DMI performed substantially better than those using the command-based interface. However, there was no difference between these two groups in terms of perceived ease of system use. Also, in contrast to previous studies, there were no differences in outcomes related to the two types of training methods. Assimilation Theory is used to explain these results, and recommendations are made for future research.

A Guide to Usability: Human Factors in Computing

Abstract: About this Guide Who Is This Guide For? How to Use This Guide? 1. Introduction to HCI 2. The Human Element: Applying Psychology 3. System Development 4. System and Interface Features 5. Software Tools and Prototyping 6. Evaluation 7. Future trends

Braque: design of an interface to support user interaction in information retrieval

Abstract: We suggest that information retrieval is most appropriately considered as an inherently interactive process, and describe the design of an interface to a bibliographic information retrieval system that supports user interaction in an integrated fashion. A significant aspect of the interface design is its dependence upon a two-level hypertext model of information retrieval system databases, and the seamless support of a variety of information seeking strategies through the use of this model, and of a model of dimensions of information seeking behaviors.

Silicon auditory processors as computer peripherals

Abstract: Several research groups are implementing analog integrated circuit models of biological auditory processing. The outputs of these circuit models have taken several forms, including video format for monitor display, simple scanned output for oscilloscope display, and parallel analog outputs suitable for data-acquisition systems. Here, an alternative output method for silicon auditory models, suitable for direct interface to digital computers, is described. As a prototype of this method, an integrated circuit model of temporal adaptation in the auditory nerve that functions as a peripheral to a workstation running Unix is described. Data from a working hybrid system that includes the auditory model, a digital interface, and asynchronous software are given. This system produces a real-time X-window display of the response of the auditory nerve model. >

Method and apparatus for obtaining and for controlling the status of a networked peripheral

Abstract: Method and apparatus for controlling the same functions of a networked printer that can be manually selected from the front panel of the printer, but remotely through an interactive network board connectable to the printer via a bi-directional printer interface and connectable to a local area network via a local area network interface. A printer status request, for example, from an administrator's console, is issued on the local area network and directed to the interactive network board to cause the board to interrogate the printer over the printer interface for the status of the manually selectable functions, and to transfer the status of those manually selectable functions from the board onto the local area network. A command to alter the status of those manually selectable functions is issued on the local area network and directed to the interactive board, the command causing the board to transfer the altered status to the printer via the printer interface, whereupon the printer status for the manually selectable functions is altered.

Interactive home information system with signal assignment

Abstract: An interactive home information system having a node in television communication and data communication with a group of home interface controllers. At each home interface controller, there is a signal input for receiving television signals from the node over a cable television distribution network and a data transceiver for conducting data communications with the node. The node determines whether a home interface controller is requesting interactive service. For each interface controller requesting interactive service, the node assigns a television information signal to the requesting home interface controller. Thus, signal assignment is accomplished on a demand basis for those interface controllers determined to be placed in an interactive mode. Signal assignment may involve selection of a given carrier frequency. Alternatively, signal assignment may involve selection of a time slice.

A digital on-demand video service supporting content-based queries

Abstract: Video-on-demand represents a key demonstrative application for enabling multimedia technology in communication, database, and interface research. This application requires solving a number of diverse technical problems including the data synchronization problem for time-dependent data delivery. In this paper we describe the general requirements of video-on-demand and introduce a system supporting content-based retrieval and playback for the structure and content of digital motion pictures. In our model we capture domain-specific information for motion pictures and provide access to individual scenes of movies through queries on a temporal database. We describe our implementation of this service using existing workstation and storage technology.

Electronic camera with memory card interface to a computer

Abstract: An electronic camera (20) operates with a small, portable computer (10) having a card interface (12, 22) of the type used for communicating with a removable memory card. The camera includes an image sensor for converting an image into an electrical signal, an A/D converter for converting the electrical signal into a digital signal, and a signal processor for interfacing the digital signal to the card interface (22), ordinarily a slot (16) receptacle, on the computer. By defining the interface to include a mechanical extender (24) that physically interconnects the camera to the card slot (16) on the computer, the camera and computer are linked in a high speed interface as a convenient, hand-held unit.

Methods and apparatus for generating and processing synthetic and absolute real time environments

Abstract: A system for generating and processing synthetic and absolute real time remote environments for interaction with a user and her biological senses is comprised of seven modules. These modules store, retrieve and process data to generate an output which interfaces with the system user's biological senses. These modules also track user data to accurately place the user in the generated and processed model. Various embodiments of the system user sensory interface are provided including visual and aural input devices and a three dimensional chamber having interactive tactile output via matrix-addressed, electromechanically operated rods driving a flexible skin.

Apparatus and method for eye tracking interface

Abstract: An eye tracking interface system for generating communication and control functions as a result of pre-defined eye gestures is disclosed. The system includes a detecting device adapted to detect bio-electromagnetic signals generated by eye movements. A first processor receives the detected bio-electromagnetic signals, and generate tokens corresponding to said pre-defined eye gestures. A second processor receives the tokens, and generates command signals based on a protocol correlating tokens to desired command signals. Thereafter, a user interface responds to said command signals, and provides control functions in response to said command signals.

Object oriented printing system

Abstract: An object-oriented printing system includes objects that provide query, data transfer, and control methods. The inventive object-oriented printing system communicates with the remainder of the operating system by means of a standard interface such as a grafport and printer drivers are provided for each printer type within the operating system. Thus, an application not only need not worry about the particular printer/computer combination with which it is to operate, but also need not have a built in document formatting capability. The printing system includes objects that provide queries for device identification, optimized imaging, and printer status. Other objects are also provided for data transfer to bracket connections prior to sending and receiving information. Still other objects are provided for canceling a print job, pausing a job, and clearing out a job. Finally, an object is also provided for supporting multiple streams of communication to an imaging task.

Object-oriented networking system with dynamically configurable communication links

Abstract: Novel object-oriented client-server facility (CSF) and networking service facility (NSF) interfaces implement communication between application programs residing in client and server nodes of a distributed services network. The CSF interface includes remote procedure call (RPC) objects for invoking and responding to service requests at the nodes, and application programming interface (API) objects for transporting those requests between the nodes. However, the API objects only provide communication transports within a node. Accordingly, the API and RPC objects interact with dynamically-configurable protocol stacks within the NSF interfaces to complete the transport mechanism needed by an application program on the client node when accessing services on a remote server node. A preferred embodiment provides an efficient way to perform object operations in a broadcast fashion over a communication network and ensures the receipt and execution of the operation by each target of the broadcast.

Method and system for customizing a user interface in a computer system

Abstract: Methods for allowing a user to customize an interface for a computer program are provided. The methods allow a user of the computer program flexibility in organizing commands into a menu structure. The methods also allow a user of a computer program to assign a keystroke sequence to a command. The user can then invoke the command by entering the keystroke sequence. A command assigned to a keystroke sequence does not need to be associated with a menu. The methods allow the user of a computer program to predefine parameters for commands. The predefinition allows the user to invoke a command without reentering the parameters. In a preferred embodiments, the methods use a command array that contains an entry for each command. The methods use an array associated with each menu. The arrays contain unique identifiers of the commands that are associated with the menu. These unique identifiers are used to reference entries into the command array. The entries in the command array include a reference to the program code that implements the commands.

Interposition agents: transparently interposing user code at the system interface

Abstract: Many contemporary operating systems utilize a system call interface between the operating system and its clients. Increasing numbers of systems are providing low-level mechanisms for intercepting and handling system calls in user code. Nonetheless, they typically provide no higher-level tools or abstractions for effectively utilizing these mechanisms. Using them has typically required reimplementation of a substantial portion of the system interface from scratch, making the use of such facilities unwieldy at best.This paper presents a toolkit that substantially increases the ease of interposing user code between clients and instances of the system interface by allowing such code to be written in terms of the high-level objects provided by this interface, rather than in terms of the intercepted system calls themselves. This toolkit helps enable new interposition agents to be written, many of which would not otherwise have been attempted.This toolkit has also been used to construct several agents including: system call tracing tools, file reference tracing tools, and customizable filesystem views. Examples of other agents that could be built include: protected environments for running untrusted binaries, logical devices implemented entirely in user space, transparent data compression and/or encryption agents, transactional software environments, and emulators for other operating system environments.

System, data processing method and program to provide a programmable interface between a workstation and an archive server to automatically store telephone transaction information

Abstract: A system, data processing method and program provide a programmable interface between a workstation and an archive server to automatically store information derived from a telephone transaction. The archive server stores a data base of records having a plurality of category fields for information derived from the telephone transaction. A host access table stored in a memory in the workstation, contains programmable commands. An interface program stored in the workstation memory executes the commands in the host access table, to perform interfacing functions between a host computer and the telephone network and to perform interfacing functions between the workstation and the archive server.

Electronic camera system using IC memory card

Abstract: An electronic camera system including a camera and an external computer. The camera includes an IC memory card, a data writing/reading circuit, an interface circuit, and a connector. The computer includes a connector which can be electrically connected to the connector of the camera, the computer being electrically connected to the IC memory card through the data writing/reading circuit and the interface circuit when the connector of the camera is connected to the connector of the computer.

Sensor interface for computer-based notification system

Abstract: A notification system for reporting events occurring within a defined area being monitored thereby. The notification system includes a plurality of sensors installed at selected locations within the defined area and a sensor interface coupled to each of the sensors. The sensor interface periodically polls the sensors and stores status information received therefrom. Coupled to the sensor interface is a computer system for receiving and analyzing the stored status data. Upon determining from the status data that an event requiring issuance of a notification has occurred, the computer system issues a series of notifications for which each recipient of a notification receives a selected message regarding the event.

Adaptive systems: from intelligent tutoring to autonomous agents

Abstract: Computer systems which can automatically alter aspects of their functionality or interface to suit the needs of individuals or groups of users have appeared over the years in a variety of guises. Most recently, attention has focused on intelligent interface agents, which are seen as specialised, knowledge-based systems acting on behalf of the user in some aspect of the interaction. Similar requirements for automatic adaptation have been noted in intelligent tutoring systems, natural-language systems and intelligent interfaces. The paper brings together the research which has emanated from a number of backgrounds, and provides a unifying perspective on adaptive systems in general. An architecture for adaptive systems and a methodology for their development are presented. The paper also describes software support for producing adaptive systems, and offers some experimental evidence to justify both the desirability and feasibility of exploiting an adaptive system approach to human-computer interaction

The nanomanipulator: a virtual-reality interface for a scanning tunneling microscope

Abstract: We have developed a virtual-reality interface to a scanning tunneling microscope (STM); the resulting system is called the Nanomanipulator. The user interface comprises a stereoscopic color head-mounted display, a force-feedback remote manipulator master station, and a high-performance graphics computer. It provides the illusion of a surface floating in space in front of the user. The user's hand gestures are translated into commands that are sent to the STM in real time; the returned video and haptic signals allow the user to see and feel the surface topography and to control the timing and location of voltage pulses applied between the tip of the STM probe and the sample under study. My thesis is that a virtual-reality interface is a powerful and effective user interface to an STM--allowing qualitatively different types of experiments to be performed. The success of our investigations using this system demonstrates the validity of the thesis. We have used the Nanomanipulator to examine various surfaces and to perform surface modification experiments. This investigation has led to new insight into the meaning of certain surface features and into the mechanisms by which voltage pulses change the tip and sample. These insights were the direct results of the real-time visualization and the more interactive nature of our system compared to standard methods. The key to the success of the Nanomanipulator system is that it provides an intuitive two-way interface to the instrument. Raw data from an STM is not in a format easily understood by a scientist, and the Etch-a-Sketch type of controls required for positioning an STM tip are neither natural nor familiar to a user. The Nanomanipulator system acts as a translator between the instrument and the scientist, allowing the scientist to concentrate on interacting with the surface under study rather than on the computer interface or the STM itself. This system seeks to put the scientists on the surface, in control, while the experiment is happening--thus turning the STM from a remote, batch surface modifier into a real-time, user-guided surface modifier.

Process and computer system for control of interface software and data files

Abstract: A computer system and process with special application as a computer assisted new drug application in which a bar code reader is used to read command bar codes to manipulate user interface software and document retrieval bar codes to retrieve electronic documents

Realtime data feed engine for updating an application with the most currently received data from multiple data feeds

Abstract: A realtime engine for interfacing one or more data feeds with an applications. Each of the data feeds delivers realtime data for each member of an associated group of items available through the data feed. The interface includes logic for caching the most recent data values received from a selected one of the data feeds for at least some members of the associated group of items for the selected data feed. The interface also includes logic for sending at least some of the cached data values to the application in response to a request for updates.