SMART SCRUBBER IN AN E-BOOK NAVIGATION INTERFACE

Abstract

A computer-implemented method for generating a navigation interface that facilitates the navigation of an e-book, comprising: generating (510) a dynamic rendering of the e-book as multiple e-book pages (202; 322, 323, 324, 326); displaying (520) a first e-book page (323) of the multiple e-book pages, wherein the first e-book page is linked to a first position in the e-book; obtaining (540) multiple context-dependent pieces of information linked to multiple positions in the e-book, wherein each position is linked to one e-book page of the multiple e-book pages and the multiple context-dependent pieces of information supplement the contents of the e-book at the multiple positions;Selecting (550) context-dependent information from the multiple context-dependent information, wherein the selected context-dependent information is associated with a second location in the e-book, and wherein the selection (550) of the context-dependent information from the multiple context-dependent information includes: determining a classification of the multiple context-dependent information according to selection criteria; estimating display positions of context-dependent symbols (336, 350A-B, 360A-C) representing the multiple context-dependent information on the scrubber (330), wherein the display positions are estimated based on the multiple locations associated with the multiple context-dependent information;and selecting the context-dependent information responsive to determining that an estimated display position of the context-dependent symbol (336, 350A, 360A-C) representing the selected context-dependent information does not conflict with estimated display positions of context-dependent symbols (336, 350A, 360A-C) representing context-dependent information about the selected context-dependent information in the specified classification; generating (560, 570) a scrubber (330) representing a page area within the e-book, wherein the scrubber includes a context-dependent symbol (336, 350A-B, 360A-C) representing the selected context-dependent information, and the context-dependent symbol is positioned at a second position along the scrubber, the second position corresponding to the second place;and display (580) of the scrubber with the context-dependent symbol in an interface (300B) which includes the first e-book page (323).;

Description

GENERAL STATE OF THE TECHNOLOGY TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] This disclosure concerns the area of ​​displaying information via a graphical user interface and specifically the creation of navigation interfaces that facilitate the navigation of e-books. DESCRIPTION OF THE STATE OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0002] Digital devices present readable digital content such as novels, newspaper articles, and short stories, as well as digital content like videos and images. Current interfaces for navigating e-books provide linear and broad navigation. These interfaces are suitable for reading novels but less so for reading specialist books like textbooks or collections of content such as cookbooks or magazines. For example, a user reading a section in a textbook can access a glossary but cannot easily return to the section they were reading. SUMMARY

[0003] The above and other requirements are met by a computer-implemented method, a non-volatile, computer-readable storage medium that stores executable commands, and a system for generating navigation interfaces that facilitates the navigation of e-books.

[0004] In one embodiment, a computer-implemented method generates a navigation interface that facilitates navigation of an e-book. The method comprises the following steps: A dynamic rendering of the e-book as multiple e-book pages is generated. The first of these multiple e-book pages is displayed. This first e-book page is linked to a first location. Several context-dependent pieces of information, linked to multiple locations, are retrieved. These multiple locations are linked to multiple e-book pages. The multiple context-dependent pieces of information supplement the content of the e-book at these multiple locations. Context-dependent information from the multiple context-dependent pieces of information is selected based on selection criteria. The selected context-dependent information is linked to a second location in the e-book. A scrubber, representing a page area within the e-book, is generated.The scrubber includes a context-sensitive symbol representing the selected context-sensitive information, positioned at a second location along the scrubber. This second location corresponds to the second position. The scrubber, along with the selected symbol, is displayed at an interface that includes a representation of the first e-book page.

[0005] In one embodiment, a non-volatile, computer-readable storage medium stores executable instructions to create a navigation interface that facilitates navigation within an e-book. These instructions are executable by a processor to perform the following steps: A dynamic rendering of the e-book as multiple e-book pages is generated. The first of these multiple e-book pages is displayed. This first e-book page is linked to a first location. Several context-dependent pieces of information, linked to multiple locations, are retrieved. These multiple locations are linked to multiple e-book pages. The multiple context-dependent pieces of information supplement the content of the e-book at these multiple locations. Context-dependent information from the multiple context-dependent pieces of information is selected based on selection criteria. The selected context-dependent information is linked to a second location in the e-book.A scrubber representing a page area within the e-book is generated. The scrubber includes a context-sensitive icon representing the selected context-sensitive information, positioned at a second location along the scrubber. This second location corresponds to the second position. The scrubber, along with the selected icon, is displayed at an interface that includes a representation of the first e-book page.

[0006] In one embodiment, a device generates a navigation interface that facilitates navigation within an e-book. The device comprises a processor configured to execute modules and a memory that stores these modules. The modules include a parsing module, a symbol selection module, and a navigation interface module. The parsing module is configured to dynamically render the e-book as multiple e-book pages. The symbol selection module is configured to retrieve multiple pieces of context-dependent information associated with various locations within the e-book. Each location is associated with one of the multiple e-book pages. The multiple pieces of context-dependent information supplement the e-book content at these multiple locations. The symbol selection module is further configured to select context-dependent information from the multiple pieces of context-dependent information.The selected context-sensitive information is linked to a second location within the ebook. The navigation interface module is configured to display the first of several ebook pages. This first ebook page is linked to the first location within the ebook. The navigation interface module is further configured to generate a scrubber representing a page range within the ebook. The scrubber includes a context-sensitive icon representing the selected context-sensitive information. This icon is positioned at a second location along the scrubber. This second location corresponds to the second position. The navigation interface module is further configured to display the scrubber with the context-sensitive icon at an interface that encompasses the first ebook page.

[0007] In one embodiment, the device further comprises a command detection module configured to receive a navigation command directed to a third position associated with the scrubber, to determine a distance between the third position and the second position, and, in response to a comparison of the distance with a distance threshold, to perform an action associated with the context-dependent symbol.

[0008] In one embodiment, the device further comprises a symbol generation module configured to select a type of context-dependent symbol based on a type of selected context-dependent information and to generate the context-dependent symbol representing the selected context-dependent information by adapting an appearance of the selected type of context-dependent symbol to reflect the context-dependent information.

[0009] The features and advantages described in the description are not exhaustive, and in particular, many additional features and advantages will be obvious to the person skilled in the art with regard to the drawings, description, and claims. Furthermore, it should be noted that the language used in the specification was chosen primarily for readability and instructional purposes, and cannot be chosen to delimit or describe the subject matter of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Fig. Figure 1 is a high-level block diagram illustrating an embodiment of an environment for generating navigation interfaces that facilitate the navigation of e-books.

[0011] Fig. Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary reading interface showing an e-book page according to one embodiment.

[0012] The Fig. 3A and Fig. Figure 3B illustrates an exemplary navigation interface including an intelligent scrubber according to one embodiment.

[0013] Fig. 3C illustrates a detailed view of the intelligent scrubber that is integrated into the Fig. 3A and Fig. Figure 3B illustrates one embodiment.

[0014] Fig. Figure 4 is a high-level block diagram illustrating a detailed view of modules within a navigation module of a user device according to one embodiment.

[0015] Fig. Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating a process of generating a navigation interface that includes an intelligent scrubber according to one embodiment.

[0016] Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a process of navigating within an e-book using a smart scrubber according to one embodiment.

[0017] Fig. Figure 7 is a high-level block diagram that represents an example computer for implementing the functionality described in Figure 7. Fig. 1 entities shown illustrate. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The figures (FIGS.) and the following description illustrate certain embodiments for illustrative purposes only. A person skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein can be used without departing from the principles of the invention described herein. Various embodiments are now described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying figures. It should be noted that, where practically possible, similar or identical reference numbers may be used in the figures to indicate similar or identical functionality. SYSTEM ENVIRONMENT

[0019] Fig. Figure 1 is a high-level block diagram illustrating an embodiment of an environment for generating navigation interfaces that facilitate e-book navigation. The environment includes a user device. 100 , which are connected through a network 110 with a media source 120 is connected. Here is a user device. 100 and a media source 120 To illustrate, there can be multiple instances of each of these entities. For example, there can be thousands or millions of user devices. 100 in communication with multiple media sources 120 give.

[0020] The network 110 provides a communication infrastructure between the user device 100 and the media source 120 ready. The network 110The media source is typically the internet, but can also be any network, including but not limited to a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a mobile, wired or wireless network, a private network, or a virtual private network. 120 includes one or more computer servers that deliver e-books to user devices 100 provide the media source 120 This could be, for example, an e-book retailer, a library, etc. The media source 120 Can an e-book be sent to the user's devices? 100 via the network 110 Provide directly.

[0021] An ebook is an electronic book that includes both content and metadata. The ebook content comprises a collection of electronic text (and potentially non-text content such as images, animations, sound, and / or video). For example, the ebook content includes the content of a book as it would be printed on the pages of a traditional paper-based book. All the text in the collection can come from a single source, or the collection can contain text from multiple sources. The text can originate from a traditional paper-based format (e.g., a physical book or newspaper) or from a digital format (e.g., electronic files in a format such as Portable Document Format (PDF), Electronic Publication (EPUB) format, or plain text format).

[0022] A section of an ebook is a fundamental grouping of content within that ebook. A section (e.g., a word, a sentence, or non-text content) is linked to a location that indicates the sequential order of that section relative to other sections of the ebook. Sections of an ebook are grouped into segments, which divide the ebook into groupings of related sections. A segment can be, for example, a chapter, a subsection of a chapter, an index, a map, a recipe, a bibliography, an article, a glossary, or a combination thereof. For instance, an ebook might have one segment for each chapter and one segment for the index.

[0023] E-book metadata includes bibliographic information about the e-book, such as the e-book identifier, title, publication date, edition / version number, number of pages, number of chapters, a segment listing, page thumbnails for e-book pages, or a combination thereof.

[0024] The user device 100 A computer device is a computer device that executes computer program modules (e.g., a web browser or other client application) that allow a user to view e-books, news feeds, browse the internet, and generally consume digital content. A user device 100 This could be, for example, a personal computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, a laptop, an associated e-reader, or another type of network-enabled device such as a networked television or a set-top box.

[0025] A user device 100In one embodiment, it includes a media database. 130 and an e-reader module 140 In one embodiment, these entities are software application modules that run on the user device. 100 execute. For example, the modules 130 and 140 integrated into a smartphone application that runs on a smartphone.

[0026] The media database 130 Stores information related to ebooks. Information related to ebooks includes ebooks, associated metadata, and annotations. Annotations can be bookmarks, comments, or highlighted sections of the text, for example. Annotations are linked to one or more sections of the text and a specific user who created the annotation. The media database 130 includes comments made by the user of the user device 100and / or created by other users (e.g., contacts, connections from the user's social network). An annotation can include formatting metadata (e.g., a color, a symbol) that the e-reader module uses. 140 used to display the annotation.

[0027] The e-reader module 140 It creates a reading interface that presents an e-book to a user. For example, the reading interface is a graphical user interface (GUI) that displays sections of the e-book, rendered as an e-book page, based on the display characteristics of the user's device (e.g., screen size, screen resolution) and e-reader settings (e.g., font size, magnification level). An e-book page is associated with the locations that correspond to the sections in the e-book on that e-book page. The "location associated with an e-book page" refers to one of these locations. An example reading interface is described in relation to Fig. 2 described below.

[0028] The e-reader module 140 includes a navigation module 150 , which processes navigation commands received from the user. A navigation command is a command that facilitates user navigation through an e-book. For example, a navigation command allows a user to, for instance, turn pages forward and / or backward within the e-book, create a navigation interface in a specific navigation mode, and interact with the created navigation interface (e.g., as described below with reference to Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B) or perform another action.

[0029] In some embodiments, the navigation module generates 150A navigation interface is a GUI that responds to a navigation command from the user (e.g., via a gesture). It allows a user to navigate to different ebook pages quickly and / or non-linearly. A navigation command can cause the navigation module to 150 switches between the navigation interface and the reading interface. An example navigation interface is given in relation to the Fig. 3A to Fig. 3C is described below.

[0030] The navigation module 150It generates a smart scrubber as part of the navigation interface. The smart scrubber graphically displays progress through the ebook. A given position on the smart scrubber corresponds to a location within a section of the ebook. For example, the smart scrubber is a horizontal bar with a left end representing the first ebook page and a right end representing the last ebook page. Alternatively, the smart scrubber is a line with positions along the line representing different locations within the ebook. In response to navigation commands directed to the smart scrubber, the navigation module displays... 150 to another section of the book, without necessarily navigating linearly through the sections of the e-book in between.

[0031] The navigation module 150The smart scrubber can display context-sensitive icons. A context-sensitive icon represents context-dependent information linked to a specific location within the ebook. Context-dependent information supplements the content of a section of the ebook and is linked to that section's location. A context-sensitive icon representing context-dependent information is linked to the location of that context-dependent information. The position of a context-dependent icon on the scrubber corresponds to the location associated with the context-dependent icon. A context-dependent icon can indicate the presence of context-dependent information such as an annotation (e.g., a bookmark, a highlight, a comment), the beginning of a segment (e.g., the first page of a chapter in the ebook), or user progress (e.g.,(display a current reading position, a position read furthest forward, a position at the beginning of the user's current reading process). Context-sensitive icons can be associated with a user's device. 100 , another user of another reading device 100 or be associated with a group of users. For example, a context-sensitive icon shows the location of popular highlights or bookmarks among users of the e-reader module. 140 As another example, a context-dependent symbol indicates the current reading location of a connection to a user's social network.

[0032] In one embodiment, the navigation module interprets 150 Navigation commands on the intelligent scrubber are based on context-sensitive symbols near the navigation command. For example, the navigation module detects 150A navigation command directed to a position on the scrubber close to a displayed context-sensitive icon indicating the beginning of a chapter. In response to the navigation command, the navigation module displays 150 the beginning of the chapter instead of the actual e-book page that corresponds to the position of the navigation command.

[0033] In one embodiment, the navigation interface displays e-book pages as thumbnails. After a navigation command requesting a navigation interface is received, the navigation module identifies the 150 E-book pages for thumbnail generation and generates page thumbnails for the identified e-book pages. A page thumbnail is a selectable image of an e-book page that has been reduced in size and, when selected, causes the e-reader module to 140The e-book page is displayed, which is linked to the page thumbnail in the reading interface. In one embodiment, the navigation module generates 150 A page restore thumbnail of the last page displayed in the reading interface. The page restore thumbnail is a context-sensitive icon that appears on or next to the smart scrubber in a position corresponding to the last page read. By selecting the page restore thumbnail, the user can return to the last page read in the reading interface.

[0034] The navigation interface allows users to easily and quickly navigate to specific points within an ebook. For example, the intelligent scrubber enables non-linear navigation to certain sections of the ebook, which can be helpful for users reading ebooks (such as cookbooks, travel guides, textbooks, and magazines) that are not typically read in a linear fashion. Furthermore, the page restore thumbnail view allows users to scroll through different pages of the book while maintaining single-touch control to return to the last page displayed in the reading interface.

[0035] Alternatively or in addition to displaying the intelligent scrubber in the navigation interface, the e-reader module shows 140The intelligent scrubber is presented as part of a reading interface. For example, the intelligent scrubber is displayed at the bottom of the reading interface, or it is normally hidden but is displayed at the bottom of the screen in response to detected input.

[0036] If the disclosed system collects or uses personal data about users, the user can control whether programs or features collect user information (e.g., information about a user's social network, social actions or activities, user preferences, the user's ebooks, a user's current position in an ebook). Additionally, certain data can be processed in one or more ways before being stored or used, so that personally identifiable information is removed. For example, a user's identity can be anonymized so that no personally identifiable information about the user can be determined. Therefore, the user can have control over how information about the user is collected and used by the media source. 120 or another content server. READING INTERFACE

[0037] Fig. 2 illustrates an example of a read interface 200 , which are provided by a user device 100 displayed is an e-book page. 202 as shown in one embodiment.

[0038] In one embodiment, a user can navigate through the e-book using gestures. Gestures are movements made by the user while interacting with a touchscreen interface of the user device. 100 The commands (e.g., a navigation command) are executed and sent to a user device. 100 Gestures include a swipe gesture, a tap gesture, a pinch-to-zoom gesture, a stretch gesture, or a combination thereof. Alternatively or additionally, a navigation command can be sent to the user device. 100 also via a selectable thumbnail view, a drop-down menu, or a physical button on the user device 100, another selection tool or a combination thereof will be provided.

[0039] A swipe gesture is registered when a section of the touchscreen interface is touched and the touched section is then dragged in a specific direction. For example, a user turns the pages of an e-book by swiping horizontally from left to right across the e-book page. 202 Back. Similarly, a user turns the pages of an e-book by swiping horizontally from right to left across the e-book page. 202 forward.

[0040] A tap gesture is received when a single section of the touchscreen interface is touched for a short duration (e.g., less than half a second). 204 , which are from the reading interface 200 When received, it indicates a request for a navigation interface in intermediate navigation mode.

[0041] A pinch-to-close or stretch gesture is received when two points on the touchscreen interface are touched and the distance between the two points changes. A reference distance value is a value associated with the initial distance between two points that were originally touched on a touchscreen interface. An active distance value is a value associated with the current distance between two touched points. A pinch-to-close gesture typically refers to a gesture where the active distance value decreases relative to the reference distance value. A stretch gesture refers to a gesture where the active distance value increases relative to the reference distance value.

[0042] In Fig. 2 is the pull-up gesture 206 A pinch-to-close gesture where a user pinches inwards in such a way that the distance between the two points on the e-book page increases. 202reduced. If, in one embodiment, the active distance of the pull-up / pull-down gesture (relative to the reference distance) is less than a threshold value, then the pull-up / pull-down gesture is deactivated by the read interface. 200 to a navigation interface. While in one embodiment the active distance decreases, the size of the displayed e-book page increases. 202 also off, and as soon as the active distance value is less than the threshold, the reading interface goes off. 200 seamlessly transitions into a navigation interface (e.g., zooms out), as shown in the Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B. NAVIGATION INTERFACE

[0043] The Fig. 3A and Fig. Figure 3B illustrates an example navigation interface. 300 including an intelligent scrubber according to one embodiment. Fig. Figure 3A illustrates an example navigation interface. 300A, which is displayed before receiving a navigation command, and Fig. Figure 3B illustrates the example navigation interface. 300B after receiving the navigation command.

[0044] With reference to Fig. 3A shows the navigation interface 300A the page thumbnails 322 , 324 and 326 A page thumbnail is a smaller version of an ebook page associated with the page thumbnail. The page thumbnail 322 For example, a smaller version of the e-book page 202 In one embodiment, the page thumbnail is scaled as a proportional reproduction of the e-book page; therefore, the content of the page thumbnail corresponds to the content of its corresponding e-book page.

[0045] In this example, the page thumbnail view corresponds to 322 the e-book page 202, the page thumbnail 324 corresponds to the preceding e-book page and the page thumbnail view 326 This corresponds to the following e-book page. In this version, the page thumbnail is displayed. 322 highlighted (e.g., enlarged) relative to other page thumbnails to indicate that the user's page thumbnail 322 This represents the last ebook page displayed in the reading interface (i.e., the "last page read"). Additionally, the navigation interface includes... 300A a segment area 328 , which displays segment information associated with the displayed page thumbnail (e.g., the page thumbnail is 322 (connected to Chapter 2).

[0046] A user can use the navigation interface 300Interact with navigation commands such as gestures. For example, a user can quickly turn pages forward or backward in an e-book using a swipe gesture. A horizontal swipe from right to left across the navigation interface. 300 causes the display of e-book pages after the e-book page. 202 Similarly, swiping from left to right across the navigation interface 300 Displaying e-book pages before the e-book page 202 In some versions, the navigation module scrolls. 150 through the e-book at a speed that corresponds to the speed of the swipe gesture.

[0047] In some implementations, a tap gesture on a page thumbnail indicates a request to display the ebook page associated with that thumbnail. A tap gesture 344 on the page thumbnail 322For example, it causes the user device 100 the e-book page 202 displays as shown in Fig. 2. Alternatively or additionally, a swipe gesture indicates a request to switch to a reading interface that displays the e-book page corresponding to the page thumbnail shown in the navigation interface. A swipe gesture 346 For example, it causes the user device 100 the e-book page 202 in the reading interface 200 displays as shown in Fig. 2.

[0048] In some implementations, a user can enlarge or reduce the size of displayed thumbnails using pinch-to-zoom gestures. The navigation module 150Modifies the size of displayed page thumbnails in response to changes in the active distance value from a pinch-to-zoom or stretch gesture. In some implementations, if the user makes a stretch gesture where the active distance value exceeds an expansion threshold (e.g., 30% larger than the reference distance), the navigation module interprets this as... 150 the distance gesture 346 as a requirement for the reading interface 200 as shown in Fig. 2. Therefore, a user can effectively zoom in or out of a particular e-book page by pinching outwards.

[0049] The navigation interface 300 includes an intelligent scrubber 330 , which allows a user to quickly navigate the e-book. The intelligent scrubber 330 includes segment indicators 334, each of which is a context-dependent symbol with a position on the scrubber indicating the location of the first page in a segment (e.g., the first e-book page in a chapter). In the illustrated example, the positions on the smart scrubber correspond to 330 From left to right, the segment indicators correspond to later sections of the e-book. 334 from left to right, progressively later segments of the e-book.

[0050] The intelligent scrubber 330 includes a job indicator 332 , which is a context-dependent symbol with a position indicating the last page read. The position of the job indicator 332 This corresponds, for example, to the position of the page thumbnail view. 322 Alternatively, the position of the job indicator corresponds to 332The position of the last e-book page reached through linear reading. For example, a user periodically consults a character summary at the end of a novel before returning to linear reading through the novel. In this case, the position indicator corresponds to 332 the position of the last linearly read page instead of the position of the character index.

[0051] By sending an input to the intelligent scrubber 330 By adjusting the navigation, a user can navigate to a page thumbnail without viewing thumbnails corresponding to the intervening ebook pages. 150 interprets a tap gesture on the smart scrubber 330 as a command to navigate to the location in the e-book that corresponds to the position on the intelligent scrubber 330 This corresponds to, for example, the tap gesture. 340 in the navigation interface 300, which displays the page thumbnail, corresponding to the position of the tap gesture 340 corresponds.

[0052] Alternatively or additionally, the user can use the intelligent scrubber. 330 via a swipe gesture 332 interact. While a user swipes, the navigation module tracks the movement. 150 the position of contact with the intelligent scrubber 330 and navigates to the spot that corresponds to the position on the intelligent scrubber 330 This corresponds to the following: Once the swipe gesture is completed (e.g., when there is no longer contact with the touchscreen interface), the navigation module remains inactive. 150 at the point corresponding to the last position of contact with the touchscreen interface. The user interacts with the intelligent scrubber. 330 for example via a swipe gesture 342 The swipe gesture 342begins with contacting a position on the intelligent scrubber 330 (in this case, the position of the job indicator) 332 ) and then glides to a final contact position with the intelligent scrubber. 330 The navigation interface 300 It then displays the page thumbnail view that corresponds to the final contact position.

[0053] In one embodiment, the navigation module is modified. 150 a navigation command on the intelligent scrubber 330 based on a nearby context-sensitive symbol. The navigation module 150 The navigation module interprets the navigation command as if it were directed at the nearby context-sensitive symbol. In response, the navigation module... 150 an action associated with the nearby context-dependent symbol. For example, the navigation module receives 150a gesture (e.g., a tap gesture) 340 , the swipe gesture 342 ) near the segment indicator 334 In response, the navigation module displays... 150 the segment indicator 334 linked e-book page.

[0054] In one embodiment, the navigation module determines 150 Whether a navigation command needs to be modified is determined by comparing the positions of the navigation command and the nearby context-sensitive symbol. For example, the navigation module determines 150 The navigation module checks whether a navigation command position is within a threshold distance (e.g., distance along the scrubber) of the position of the nearby context-sensitive symbol. If the distance between the positions is less than the threshold distance, the navigation module handles the situation differently. 150The navigation command is executed as if it were directed at the displayed context-sensitive icon. The navigation module 150 For example, it displays the page at the location associated with the context-sensitive symbol. Alternatively, instead of comparing positions, the navigation module compares... 150 Locations that are associated with the position of the navigation command and the position of the context-sensitive symbol.

[0055] Fig. Figure 3B illustrates the example navigation interface. 300B after receiving a navigation command (such as the tap gesture) 340 or the swipe gesture 342 ). In this example, the page thumbnail view 323 The e-book page is displayed at the location corresponding to the position of the navigation command. The page thumbnails 325 and 327 These correspond to the e-book pages before and after the e-book page that is the page thumbnail view. 323corresponds to the segment area. 329 indicates that the displayed page thumbnail 323 which is connected to Chapter 6.

[0056] The intelligent scrubber 330 reflects the changed position of the currently displayed page thumbnail 323 The navigation interface 300B The symbol indicates the current location. 332 at a position that corresponds to the location on the e-book page shown in the page thumbnail view 323 as shown. The intelligent scrubber also includes 330 a progress bar 331 , which is the position of the last read page in the reading interface 200 reflected. For example, the position of the right end of the progress bar corresponds to the position of the last page read.

[0057] In one embodiment, the navigation module displays 300B a page recovery thumbnail 336at a position on the intelligent scrubber 330 on, which corresponds to the position of the last read page in the reading interface 200 corresponds to the navigation module. 150 generates and displays the page recovery thumbnail 336 This occurs when the position on the page corresponding to the displayed page thumbnail differs from the position of the last page viewed. If the navigation module 150 detects a navigation command that displays the page restore thumbnail 336 The e-reader module displays the selected option. 140 the last page read in the reading interface 200 Alternatively, selecting the page restore thumbnail will 336 that the navigation module 150 displays the page thumbnail that corresponds to the last page read.

[0058] The page restore thumbnail 336is a context-dependent icon that is dynamically generated based on a specific page. In one embodiment, the page restore thumbnail is generated based on the content of the last page viewed. For example, the page restore thumbnail 336 a miniature page thumbnail view that corresponds to the page thumbnail view 322 corresponds to the one that was displayed before receiving the navigation command (e.g., via the tap gesture). 340 , via the swipe gesture 342 Other dynamically generated page restore thumbnails 336This represents segment information (e.g., chapter name in a novel, section number in a textbook), representative page content (e.g., an image from the ebook page, a representative sentence), or other related content (e.g., a note from the ebook page, supplementary content from the ebook publisher). A dynamic rendering of the page recovery thumbnail. 336 The content of the corresponding e-book page advantageously reminds the user of the corresponding e-book page.

[0059] The page restore thumbnail 336 It can also be a generic symbol that is visually consistent regardless of the content of the last page read. For example, the page restore thumbnail. 336 a straight arrow pointing to the left, or an arrow in a circular shape pointing counterclockwise.

[0060] For touchscreen implementations of the user device 100 Displays the page recovery thumbnail 336 It is advantageous to have a relatively large spatial affordance on the display ready to receive gestures. The page restore thumbnail 336 In other words, it provides a "tap target" for navigation commands to return to the last viewed page. Therefore, an implementation of the navigation interface shows 300 the page recovery thumbnail 336 larger than other context-dependent symbols on the smart scrubber 330 .

[0061] In one embodiment, the page restore thumbnail is marked. 336 the last page read while the user was reading the e-book using the navigation interface 300 navigates. The navigation module 150 removes the page recovery thumbnail 336from the intelligent scrubber 330 , when a command is received, to the read interface 200 to switch. After switching back to the navigation interface. 300 The page recovery thumbnail is no longer present.

[0062] In an alternative embodiment, the navigation module is removed. 150 the page recovery thumbnail 336 from the optical display, but saves the position of the page restore thumbnail after a page is displayed in the reading interface. 200 After returning to the navigation interface 300 The intelligent scrubber includes 330 The page recovery thumbnail is displayed again. 336 , which corresponds to the stored location. In this embodiment, the navigation module removes 150 the page recovery thumbnail 336 from the intelligent scrubber 330, after a number of pages have been turned in the reading interface 200 equals or exceeds a threshold number of pages turned.

[0063] Alternatively or in addition to displaying the page recovery thumbnail 336 The navigation interface includes 300 a return symbol 390 , which causes the user device 100 the last page read in the reading interface 200 (or the thumbnail view of the last read page in the navigation interface) 300 (corresponds) displays. SMART SCRUBBER

[0064] Fig. 3C illustrates a detailed view of the intelligent scrubber. 330 , who in Fig. Figure 3B illustrates one embodiment. The intelligent scrubber 330 includes context-dependent symbols, including the job indicator 332, the segment indicators 334 and the page restore thumbnail 336 , which in relation to the Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B is described. Apart from the aforementioned context-dependent symbols, the intelligent scrubber can 330 Includes additional context-dependent symbols.

[0065] Context-sensitive symbols can include annotation symbols and visual indicators. Annotation symbols represent notes and indicate positions on the smart scrubber. 330 These icons correspond to the locations of the displayed annotations. Example annotation icons represent comments, highlights, or bookmarks and may have been created by a user of the device or by another user. The annotation icon 360A For example, it represents a highlight created by another user and the annotation symbols. 360B and 360Crepresent user-generated comments. For example, the annotation symbols correspond to... 360B and 360C Comments received from another user of an e-book club that the user has joined (e.g., via a social network).

[0066] Visual indicators display both temporary and permanent context-dependent information associated with a location in an e-book. Permanent context-dependent information reflects the structure of the e-book (e.g., segment indicators). 334 Temporary context-dependent information includes current reading locations (e.g., the job indicator). 332 ), previous reading locations (e.g., the page restore thumbnail) 336 ) and reading locations from another user. The optical indicator 350AFor example, it shows the current reading location of a contact on a social network, and the visual indicator 350B represents the furthest reading point of another user of the user device 100 dar.

[0067] Similar to the page restore thumbnail 336 Context-dependent symbols can be dynamically generated based on context, or they can be static, generic symbols. For example, a dynamically generated context-dependent symbol associated with a different user, such as a visual indicator, would have... 350AA dynamically generated contextual icon can display an avatar image and / or color that corresponds to that user. It can reflect the location of the contextual icon (e.g., a page number, segment title, segment number), the content of the ebook at that location (e.g., a sentence from that page, an image from that page, a page thumbnail), or the content of an associated annotation. A static or generic icon does not vary with the corresponding location or user. Static or generic icons, for example, have a characteristic color or shape that indicates the type of contextual icon (e.g., type of annotation, type of visual indicator).

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, different types of context-dependent symbols are used in different areas of the intelligent scrubber. 330 displayed. The annotation symbols 360A until360C for example, in the upper half of the intelligent scrubber 330 displayed and the optical indicators 350A and 350B are located in the lower half of the intelligent scrubber 330 displayed. Other arrangements are possible; for example, the navigation interface shows 300 Context-dependent symbols that are displayed to the user of the user device 100 correspond to the upper half of the intelligent scrubber 330 and context-dependent symbols that correspond to other users, in the lower half of the smart scrubber 330 The navigation interface serves as another example. 300 Use context-dependent symbols to minimize visual clutter, rather than visually separating the context-dependent symbols into different types of context-dependent symbols.

[0069] In one embodiment, the navigation interface is more frequent.300 context-dependent symbols are displayed, indicating similar and therefore nearby positions on the intelligent scrubber. 330 exhibit. The navigation interface 300 One of the accumulated context-dependent symbols can be displayed as a representative of the accumulation. In the illustrated embodiment, the context-dependent symbol represents 360C represents a group of accumulated context-dependent symbols that have a similar type or position, or the navigation interface 300 can be an indicator of accumulated context-dependent symbols (e.g., the context-dependent symbol). 360C ) display. In one embodiment, the navigation module uses 150 the current position of the currently displayed page to determine whether accumulated context-dependent symbols should be displayed separately (e.g., the context-dependent symbols). 360B ) or as a representative context-dependent symbol (e.g., the context-dependent symbol)360C ) will be displayed. If the position of the job indicator changes 332 For example, if the position of the accumulated context-dependent symbols is within a horizontal threshold distance, then it displays the navigation interface. 300 separately. Alternatively or additionally, the navigation module detects 150 Gestures select accumulated context-dependent symbols, and then display the accumulated symbols separately as a response. For example, the navigation interface responds 300 a tap gesture on a representative contextual icon, by displaying the accumulated contextual icons separately. NAVIGATION MODULE

[0070] Fig. Figure 4 is a high-level block diagram that shows a detailed view of modules within the navigation module. 150 a user device 100Illustrated according to one embodiment. Some embodiments of the navigation module 150 They have different modules than those described here. Similarly, the functions among the modules may be distributed differently than described here. The navigation module 150 includes a parsing module 410 , a command detection module 420 , a thumbnail generation module 430 , a symbol selection module 440 , a symbol generation module 450 and a navigation interface module 460 .

[0071] The parsing module 410 It represents an e-book as e-book pages, each of which is linked to one or more segments. The parsing module 410 It parses sections of the e-book into e-book pages based on the positions of the sections. The parsing module 410The amount of e-book content on an e-book page varies based partly on the available display area to present e-book content, font size and / or other factors. Fig. Figure 2 illustrates a single e-book page parsed by the module. 410 is provided. The parsing module 410 places one or more of these e-book pages into the e-reader module 140 ready for presentation to the user.

[0072] The command detection module 420 detects navigation commands from a user to the user device 100 As described in relation to the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3A navigation commands can be given, for example, via gestures on a touchscreen interface, a selection of menu options, or physical buttons on the user device. 100 to be received. The command detection module 420Determines whether the navigation command is intended to switch between a reading interface and a navigation interface, navigate to a different location in the ebook, create an annotation, or perform another function. For example, the command detection module determines 420 That a tap gesture on a smart scrubber is a request to navigate to another location corresponding to the position of the tap gesture on the smart scrubber. The command detection module 420 This can include mapping positions on the smart scrubber to the corresponding locations in the e-book. The command detection module 420 sends the navigation command to the navigation interface module 460 and / or other modules available.

[0073] The thumbnail generation module 430Generates page thumbnails according to the requested navigation mode. Generating a page thumbnail refers to creating a page thumbnail from an ebook page and / or retrieving a page thumbnail from the media database. 130 and / or the media source 120 In one embodiment, the thumbnail generation module... 430 Page thumbnails are restored by shrinking e-book pages, which are retrieved from the media database. 130 can be retrieved. The thumbnail generation module 430 Displays a page thumbnail and saves the page thumbnail in the media database. 130 for later use by the navigation interface module 460 Alternatively or additionally, the thumbnail generation module offers 430 Real-time page thumbnails in response to navigation commands or other changes to the navigation interface module460 again (e.g., a font size, creating an annotation). The symbol selection module 440 and / or the navigation interface module 460 uses page thumbnails from the thumbnail generation module 430 .

[0074] The symbol selection module 440 It selects context-sensitive information associated with the e-book to display as context-sensitive icons in conjunction with the intelligent scrubber. The icon selection module 440 It can retrieve context-dependent information based on selection criteria such as e-reader status, user preferences, social context of e-reader use, available display area on the smart scrubber, and capabilities of the user device. 100 Select. E-reader status refers to the state of the e-reader module. 140 given current values ​​of program variables in the e-reader module 140(e.g., current reading position, last page read) as well as recent input. User preferences refer to configurable options for the e-reader module. 140 To adapt to a user. Social context refers to the relationships between an e-reader user and other e-reader users that determine which context-dependent information is available to an e-reader user. User device capabilities are characteristics of the user device's hardware components that affect the display of an e-book and navigation through it.

[0075] In one embodiment, the symbol selection module identifies 440Appropriate context-dependent information is obtained by applying filter criteria to the context-dependent information in order to remove unsuitable context-dependent information. The filter criteria filter out (i.e., remove) context-dependent information that is not relevant to the user. For example, the last read page is filtered out if the current reading position differs from the last read page by less than a threshold number of ebook pages. As another example, the selection assembly filters 440 context-dependent information is displayed that contradicts a user's display preferences or conflicts with the social context of reading an e-book.

[0076] In one embodiment, the symbol selection module assigns 440Context-dependent information (e.g., suitable context-dependent information, as determined by filters) is entered according to selection criteria. The classification of suitable context-dependent information can involve assigning scores to the context-dependent information according to a linear combination of the selection criteria and then classifying the suitable context-dependent information based on these scores. The selection assembly 440 For example, it assigns scores to selection criteria that match an instance of context-dependent information and then sums the scores to determine a score for the instance of context-dependent information. Alternatively, or in addition to assigning scores to the context-dependent information, the symbol selection module assigns 440Categories are assigned to instances of context-dependent information (e.g., always selected, frequently selected, sometimes selected, rarely selected) based on selection criteria. For example, the current reading position and positions on the first pages of segments are assigned to the "always selected" category. The selection assembly 440 It can classify context-dependent information within assigned categories by assigning scores.

[0077] In one embodiment, the symbol selection module selects 440Context-sensitive information is selected from suitable context-sensitive information that has passed the filtering process, based on a rating and / or score of the suitable context-sensitive information. Selecting context-sensitive information can include determining a limit on the number of instances of context-sensitive information selected to display (e.g., based on the display area or other device capabilities). Selecting context-sensitive information can also include determining a threshold rating or score. The symbol selection module 440 selects those instances of context-dependent information that have a rating better than or equal to the threshold rating or a score better than or equal to the threshold score.

[0078] The symbol selection module 440It can select context-dependent information based at least partially on the e-reader's state. The filter criteria can include states based on the e-reader's state. For example, the symbol selection module selects... 440 The last read page is displayed as a page restoration thumbnail based on a comparison between the current reading position and the last read page. As another example, the icon selection module selects... 440 Context-sensitive information is displayed in response to input directed to a position on the intelligent scrubber that corresponds to the location of the selected context-sensitive information. The symbol selection module 440It can categorize or score context-dependent information based on the e-reader's state. For example, context-dependent information in a location similar to the current position receives a higher rank or score.

[0079] In one embodiment, the symbol selection module determines 440 Whether context-sensitive information should be displayed as separate context-sensitive icons or as a single, accumulated context-sensitive icon, based on an e-reader state such as the current reading position, a recently received navigation command, or other selection criteria. The icon selection module 440 For example, it determines that a position of accumulated context-dependent symbols on the scrubber is within a horizontal threshold distance or the current position indicator; in response, the symbol selection module selects 440The context-dependent information is selected for display as separate context-dependent symbols according to the accumulated context-dependent symbols. Conversely, if the position of closely spaced context-dependent symbols is greater than a threshold distance from the position of the place indicator, the symbol selection module selects... 440 a representative instance of the set of context-dependent information is selected for display as a context-dependent symbol, representing the set of closely spaced context-dependent symbols. As another example, the symbol selection module selects 440 context-dependent information is displayed as separate context-dependent icons in response to a navigation command (e.g., a tap gesture, a swipe gesture, or moving the mouse pointer over a specific location) directed to the accumulated context-dependent icons.

[0080] The symbol selection module 440It can select context-dependent information based at least partially on user preferences. User preferences can be received from explicit selections made by a user or from user interaction with the e-reader module. 140 User preferences can be used as conditions for filter criteria. For example, if the user preferences indicate that the e-reader module 140 If you want to hide comments from other users, then select the symbol selection module. 440 context-dependent information is displayed, which is related to the user of the e-reader module. 140are linked, rather than context-dependent information linked to other users. User preferences can be used to determine a number of instances of context-dependent information to select. For example, a user's preferences indicate whether the user prefers to see a low, medium, or high number of context-dependent icons.

[0081] The symbol selection module 440 It can select context-dependent information based, at least partially, on the social context. Different social contexts change the relevance of different context-dependent information. The symbol selection module 440It filters out comments created by users other than those in the book club (e.g., users who have joined a social networking group that functions as a book club). As another example, in a face-to-face training session, the symbol selection module sorts comments according to social context. 440 Annotations created by a teacher user, as well as the teacher user's current reading position, are displayed above other context-dependent information. In an example single reading of social context, the symbol selection module organizes... 440 Higher scores for popular annotations are given when a user reads alone than when the user reads in a book club or training room environment.

[0082] The symbol selection module 440It can select context-dependent information to display based at least partially on the available display area or other user device capabilities. User device capabilities include display device size, display device resolution, available processing power, available memory, or input device characteristics. For example, the symbol selection module determines 440 The number of instances of context-sensitive information selected for display is determined based on the display area assigned to the intelligent scrubber. As another example, the symbol selection module... 440 higher scores are attributed to context-dependent information stored in a more responsive memory (e.g., a cache, random access memory, flash memory) than to context-dependent information stored in a less responsive memory (e.g., a hard disk, an off-device memory). 100) to improve the responsiveness of the e-reader module 140 to improve. If the input device is a touchscreen, the icon selection module assigns 440 Higher scores are awarded to context-dependent symbols that have a larger display size to improve spatial affordance for receiving gestures.

[0083] In one embodiment, the symbol selection module selects 440 Context-dependent information is generated based on estimated display positions of context-dependent symbols that correspond to the context-dependent information. The symbol selection module 440 It estimates display positions for context-sensitive symbols that represent the context-sensitive information, based on locations associated with that information. The symbol selection module 440The system then determines whether an instance of contextual information has a contextual symbol with an estimated display position that conflicts with the estimated display position of another contextual symbol representing a higher-level instance of contextual information. Responding to the determination that the contextual symbol representing the instance of the contextual information's display position does not conflict with the display positions of contextual symbols representing contextual information that is higher-level, the symbol selection module selects the instance of contextual information.The display positions of context-sensitive icons conflict if there is an overlap in the estimated display position or if there is less than a threshold distance between the boundaries of the context-sensitive icons. For example, the page restore thumbnail is affected by annotation icons located on the user device. 100 The generated icons are categorized. In this example, if a user annotation and the page restore thumbnail have conflicting estimated display positions, then the icon selection module selects them. 440 Select the page recovery thumbnail for display on the smart scrubber.

[0084] The symbol generation module 450 It generates context-sensitive symbols for display on or next to a smart scrubber. In one embodiment, the symbol generation module creates 450Context-dependent symbols that represent context-dependent information, selected by the symbol selection module 440 were selected. To generate a context-dependent symbol, the symbol generation module selects 450 A type of context-dependent symbol is selected according to the type of context-dependent information. Examples of context-dependent symbol types include a vertical bar for a segment indicator, a filled circle for a digit indicator, a ring for a comment, and a star for highlighted text.

[0085] The symbol generation module can be used for dynamically generated context-dependent symbols. 450 Further customize the appearance of the selected symbol type to reflect the context-dependent information it displays (e.g., based on the assignment or user associated with that context-dependent information). The symbol generation module 450It can incorporate a user-specific image (e.g., a profile picture, a personal avatar image, an arbitrarily selected image, text, a username, a characteristic color, or an arbitrarily assigned color) into context-sensitive icons associated with that user. As another example, the icon generation module... 450 E-book content that is linked to the location of context-dependent information is enclosed in a context-dependent icon (e.g., the page recovery thumbnail).

[0086] The navigation interface module 460 It generates a navigation interface, including an intelligent scrubber, using the context-sensitive icons selected for display. In one embodiment, the navigation interface includes page thumbnails representing a page at the current location and adjacent pages, as described in the Fig. 3A and Fig. Figure 3B is shown. The navigation interface also includes the intelligent scrubber and the context-sensitive icons, as shown in Figure 3B. Fig. 3C are selected for display. The navigation interface module 460 modifies the navigation interface in response to navigation commands issued by the command detection module. 420 be received. For example, the navigation interface module switches 460 between the navigation interface and a reading interface, or responds to a user who turns to a different location in the e-book. CREATION OF AN INTELLIGENT SCRUBBER

[0087] Fig. Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the process of generating a navigation interface that includes an intelligent scrubber according to one embodiment. Other entities may perform some or all of the steps of the process in other embodiments. Likewise, embodiments may include different and / or additional steps or perform the steps in different sequences.

[0088] The user device 100 generated 510 (e.g. using the parsing module) 410 ) a dynamic rendering of an e-book as multiple e-book pages that can be linked by multiple segments. The user device 100 parses the e-book into e-book pages for presentation to the user.

[0089] The user device 100 shows 520 (e.g. using the navigation interface module) 460The system presents sections of the ebook to the user as an ebook page (e.g., in a reading interface). The ebook page is linked to a specific point within a section (e.g., the first section, the last section) of the ebook, which is displayed on that page.

[0090] The user device 100 receives 530 (e.g. using the command detection module) 420 ) a navigation command that requests a navigation interface in a specific navigation mode. The navigation command can 530 for example, by the user via a gesture, a selection of a displayed button, a menu selection, or a selection of a physical button on the user device. 100are received. A received press, for example, switches from the reading interface to the navigation interface. In response to receiving the navigation command requesting the navigation interface, the user device generates 100 the navigation interface.

[0091] The user device 100 obtained 540 (e.g. using the symbol selection module) 440 Context-dependent information linked to specific sections of the e-book. An instance of context-dependent information supplements the e-book's content at the location linked to that instance. The context-dependent information can be retrieved from the media database. 130 , the e-reader module 140 , the media source 120 or another user device 100 obtained 540 become.

[0092] The user device 100 selects 550(e.g. using the symbol selection module) 440 ) Context-dependent information to display based on selection criteria, including the state of the e-reader module 140 , the user preferences, the social context of e-reader use, the available display area, and other device capabilities. In one embodiment, selects 550 the user device 100 always displays the current reading position as a context-dependent position indicator symbol. The user device 100 Based on a comparison between the current position and the position of the last read page and / or based on a number of page turns in reading mode after navigating to another position using the intelligent scrubber, it can determine whether the last read page should be selected to be displayed as a page recovery thumbnail. 550The selection of context-dependent information can involve determining a social context in which the e-book is presented and selecting the context-dependent information based on that specific social context.

[0093] The user device 100 generated 560 (e.g. using the symbol generation module) 450Context-sensitive symbols that correspond to the selected context-sensitive information. The context-sensitive symbols represent the context-sensitive information and are linked to the same location as the displayed context-sensitive information. Generating the context-sensitive symbol may involve identifying a user associated with the context-sensitive information and modifying the appearance of the context-sensitive symbol based on the user associated with the context-sensitive information. Generating the context-sensitive symbol may also involve retrieving e-book content from the e-book page associated with the context-sensitive symbol and incorporating the e-book content into the context-sensitive symbol. In one embodiment, 560 the user device 100 (e.g. using the thumbnail generation module) 430) a page restore thumbnail linked to the position of the last read page. In one embodiment, this generates 560 the user device 100 A position indicator that represents the position of a currently displayed e-book page. Alternatively, instead of generating context-sensitive symbols that correspond to selected context-sensitive information, it generates 560 the user device 100 Context-dependent symbols that represent all the acquired context-dependent information.

[0094] The user device 100 generated 570 (e.g. using the navigation interface module) 460The intelligent scrubber displays the generated context-sensitive symbols at positions on the intelligent scrubber that correspond to locations associated with those symbols. The intelligent scrubber can also include a position indicator at a location on the intelligent scrubber that corresponds to the position on the currently displayed e-book page.

[0095] The user device 100 shows 580 (e.g. using the navigation interface module) 460 ) the intelligent scrubber along with a page thumbnail of the current e-book page in the navigation interface. Alternatively or additionally, it displays 580 the user device 100 the intelligent scrubber in the reading interface displays a rendering of the current e-book page. PAGE RESTORE

[0096] Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a process for navigating within an e-book using a smart scrubber according to one embodiment. Other entities may perform some or all of the steps of the process in other embodiments. Likewise, embodiments may include different and / or additional steps or perform the steps in different orders.

[0097] The user device 100 generated 610 (e.g. using the parsing module) 410 ) a dynamic rendering of the e-book as multiple e-book pages.

[0098] The user device 100 shows 620 (e.g. using the navigation interface module) 460) an intelligent scrubber and a first e-book page linked to the first position in the e-book. The intelligent scrubber can include a position indicator at the first position, which corresponds to the first position.

[0099] The user device 100 receives 630 (e.g. using the command detection module) 420 A navigation command directed to a second position on the displayed scrubber. This navigation command is received, for example, after the smart scrubber and the first e-book page are displayed. The navigation command could be a swipe or tap gesture in the direction of the second position. Another example would be a tap gesture on a context-sensitive icon at the second position.

[0100] In response to the received navigation command, it shows 640 the user device100 (e.g. using the navigation interface module) 460 The intelligent scrubber and a second e-book page in a second position corresponding to the second position are displayed. If the intelligent scrubber includes a position indicator, the user device displays this. 100 the job indicator is in second position.

[0101] The user device 100 generated 650 (e.g. using the thumbnail generation module) 430 , using the symbol generation module 450 ) a page recovery thumbnail based on the first ebook page. For example, the page recovery thumbnail includes a miniaturized image of the first ebook page while playing back in reading mode. The user device 100 shows 660 (e.g. using the navigation interface module) 460The page recovery thumbnail is displayed next to the first position on the smart scrubber. For example, if the smart scrubber is a horizontal bar, the page recovery thumbnail will be displayed horizontally, aligned with the first position on the smart scrubber.

[0102] After displaying the page recovery thumbnail, it receives 670 the user device 100 (e.g. using the command detection module) 420 ) a navigation command directed at the page recovery thumbnail. For example, the navigation command is a tap gesture on the page recovery thumbnail. In response to the navigation command directed at the page recovery thumbnail, it displays 680 the user device 100 (e.g. using the navigation interface module) 460) the first e-book page. If the scrubber bar includes a position indicator, then the user device displays 100 The job indicator is displayed in the first position on the scrubber bar. COMPUTER

[0103] Fig. Figure 7 is a high-level block diagram representing an example computer. 700 to implement the in Fig. The entities shown in section 1 illustrate this. The computer 700 includes at least one processor 702 , which is equipped with a chipset 704 is coupled. The chipset 704 includes a storage controller hub 720 as well as an input / output (I / O) controller hub 722 A storage device 706 and a graphics adapter 712 are connected to the memory controller hub 720 coupled and a display 718 is with the graphics adapter 712 coupled. A storage device 708 , an input interface 714and a network adapter 716 are connected to the I / O controller hub 722 coupled. Other embodiments of the computer 700 They exhibit different architectural styles.

[0104] The storage device 708 is a non-volatile, computer-readable storage medium such as a hard disk drive, compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), DVD, or solid-state storage device. The storage 706 stores instructions and data sent by the processor 702 can be used. The input interface 714 is a touchscreen interface, a mouse, a trackball or other type of pointing device, a keyboard or a combination thereof, and is used to input data into the computer 700 to enter. In some versions, the computer 700 be configured to accept input (e.g., commands) from the input interface 714 to be received via gestures from the user. The graphics adapter712 displays images and other information (e.g., the reading interface) 200 or the navigation interface 300 ) on the display 718 on. The network adapter 716 connects the computer 700 with one or more computer networks. In one embodiment, the display 718 and the input interface 714 combined with a touch-sensitive screen (e.g. a touchscreen) that detects gestures (e.g. scrolling, tapping, swiping, pressing, stretching).

[0105] The computer 700is adapted to execute computer program modules to provide the functionality described herein. As used herein, the term "module" refers to computer program logic used to provide the specified functionality. Therefore, a module may be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, and / or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, program modules (e.g., the e-reader module) are 140 , the navigation module 150 ) on the storage device 708 stored, in memory 706 loaded and through the processor 702 executed.

[0106] The types of computers used 700 , to the entities of Fig. The implementation of 1 can vary depending on the design and the computing power required by the entity. The user device 100 For example, a computer 700such as a smartphone or a tablet. Another example is the media source. 120 one or more servers that work together to provide the functionality described herein. In the case of a computer 700 (e.g., a server) some of the components described above, such as a keyboard, a graphics adapter, may be used. 712 and a display 718 miss.

[0107] Some sections of the foregoing description describe the embodiments in terms of algorithmic processes or operations. These algorithmic descriptions and representations are usually used by a person skilled in the art of data processing to effectively communicate the content of their work to another person skilled in the art. While these operations are described functionally, computationally, or logically, it is understood that they are implemented by computer programs that include instructions for execution by a processor or equivalent circuitry, microcode, or the like. Furthermore, it has sometimes proven useful to refer to these arrangements of workflows as modules, without loss of generality. The described operations and their associated modules can be embodied in software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof.

[0108] As used herein, references in this description to “an embodiment” mean that a particular element, feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. The use of the phrase “in an embodiment” at different points in the description does not necessarily always refer to the same embodiment.

[0109] Some embodiments may be described using the terms "coupled" and "connected," along with their derivatives. It should be understood that these terms are not synonymous. For example, some embodiments may be described using the term "connected" to indicate that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact with each other. In another example, some embodiments may be described using the term "coupled" to indicate that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact. However, the term "coupled" can also mean that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other but nevertheless operate or interact with one another. The embodiments are not limited in this respect.

[0110] As used herein, the terms “includes,” “comprehensive,” “includes,” “contains,” “has,” “exhibits,” and other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, procedure, article, or device that includes a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent in such process, procedure, article, or device. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, “or” refers to an inclusive rather than an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present); A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present); and both A and B are true (or present).

[0111] Furthermore, “a”, “a” or “an” is used to describe elements and components of the embodiments herein. This is done solely for practical reasons and to provide a general idea of ​​the disclosure. The description should be read as containing one or at least one, and the singular includes the plural unless it is obvious otherwise.

[0112] After reading this disclosure, the person skilled in the art will still be able to imagine additional alternative structural and functional designs for a system and process for generating graphical user interfaces for navigation interfaces that facilitate the navigation of e-books. While certain embodiments and applications have been illustrated and described, it is understood that the subject matter described is not limited to the exact setup and components disclosed herein, and that various modifications, changes, and variations, which will be obvious to the person skilled in the art, can be implemented in the arrangement, operation, and details of the method and apparatus disclosed herein.

Claims

[1] Computer-implemented method for generating a navigation interface which facilitates the navigation of an e-book, wherein the method comprises: Generating a dynamic rendering of the e-book as multiple e-book pages; Displaying the first e-book page of several e-book pages, where the first e-book page is linked to a first position in the e-book; Obtaining multiple context-dependent pieces of information linked to multiple locations in the e-book, each location being linked to one of the multiple e-book pages, and the multiple context-dependent pieces of information supplementing the content of the e-book at the multiple locations; Selecting context-dependent information from the multiple context-dependent pieces of information, where the selected context-dependent information is linked to a second location in the e-book; Generating a scrubber representing a page area within the e-book, wherein the scrubber includes a context-sensitive symbol representing the selected context-sensitive information, and the context-sensitive symbol is positioned at a second location along the scrubber, the second location corresponding to the second position; and Displaying the scrubber with the context-sensitive icon in an interface that includes the first page of the e-book. [2] Method according to claim 1, further comprising: Receiving a navigation command directed to the context-sensitive symbol in the second position; and Responding to the receipt of the navigation command, displaying a second e-book page of the multiple e-book pages, with the second e-book page being linked to the second position. [3] Method according to claim 1, further comprising: Receiving a navigation command directed to a third position connected to the scrubber; Determining a distance between the third position and the second position; and appealing to a comparison of the distance with a distance threshold, the execution of an action associated with the context-dependent symbol. [4] The method of claim 1, wherein selecting the context-dependent information from the multiple context-dependent information comprises: Iden Identifying suitable context-dependent information by applying filter criteria to the multiple context-dependent information items in order to remove unsuitable context-dependent information; Determining a classification of the appropriate context-dependent information according to selection criteria; and Selecting the context-dependent information from the appropriate context-dependent information based on the specified classification. [5] Method according to claim 1, wherein selecting the context-dependent information from the multiple context-dependent information comprises: Determining a classification of the multiple context-dependent pieces of information according to selection criteria; Estimating the display positions of context-dependent symbols representing the multiple context-dependent pieces of information on the scrubber, wherein the display positions are estimated based on the multiple locations associated with the multiple context-dependent pieces of information; and Selecting the context-dependent information appropriately to determine that an estimated display position of the context-dependent symbol representing the selected context-dependent information does not conflict with estimated display positions of context-dependent symbols representing context-dependent information about the selected context-dependent information in the specified classification. [6] Method according to claim 1, wherein selecting the context-dependent information from the multiple context-dependent information comprises: Determining a social context in which the e-book will be presented; and Selecting context-dependent information appealingly aims to determine that the context-dependent information is relevant to the social context. [7] Method according to claim 1, further comprising: Selecting a type of context-dependent symbol based on a type of selected context-dependent information. Generating the context-dependent symbol that represents the selected context-dependent information by adapting the appearance of the selected type of context-dependent symbol to reflect the context-dependent information. [8] Method according to claim 7, wherein generating the context-dependent symbols representing the context-dependent information comprises: Identifying a user associated with the selected context-dependent information; and Include an element associated with the identified user in the appearance of the selected type of context-sensitive icon, where the element is selected from a group consisting of: an image, text, and a color. [9] The method of claim 7, wherein generating the context-dependent symbols representing the context-dependent information comprises: Retrieving the e-book content from the second e-book page, which is linked to the context-sensitive symbol; and Incorporating the acquired e-book content into the appearance of the selected type of context-dependent symbol. [10] Method according to claim 1: where selecting the context-dependent information involves identifying the last page read in the e-book, and the last page read is more than a threshold number of e-book pages from the first e-book page; and where generating the scrubber includes generating the context-sensitive symbol, and the context-sensitive symbol includes a page thumbnail of the last read page. [11] Non-volatile, computer-readable storage medium that stores executable instructions to create a navigation interface that facilitates navigation of an e-book, wherein the instructions are executable by a processor to perform steps that include: Generating a dynamic rendering of the e-book as multiple e-book pages; Displaying the first e-book page of several e-book pages, where the first e-book page is linked to a first position in the e-book; Obtaining multiple context-dependent pieces of information linked to multiple locations in the e-book, each location being linked to one of the multiple e-book pages, and the multiple context-dependent pieces of information supplementing the content of the e-book at the multiple locations; Selecting context-dependent information from the multiple context-dependent pieces of information, where the selected context-dependent information is linked to a second location in the e-book; Generating a scrubber representing a page area within the e-book, wherein the scrubber includes a context-sensitive symbol representing the selected context-sensitive information, and the context-sensitive symbol is positioned at a second location along the scrubber, the second location corresponding to the second position; and Displaying the scrubber with the context-sensitive icon in an interface that includes the first page of the e-book. [12] Computer-readable storage medium according to claim 11, wherein the steps performed further comprise: Receiving a navigation command directed to a third position connected to the scrubber; Determining a distance between the third position and the second position; and appealing to a comparison of the distance with a distance threshold, the execution of an action associated with the context-dependent symbol. [13] Computer-readable storage medium according to claim 11, wherein selecting the context-dependent information from the multiple context-dependent information comprises: Identifying suitable context-dependent information by applying filter criteria to the multiple context-dependent pieces of information in order to remove unsuitable context-dependent information; Determining a classification of the appropriate context-dependent information according to selection criteria; and Selecting the context-dependent information from the appropriate context-dependent information based on the specified classification. [14] Computer-readable storage medium according to claim 11, wherein the steps performed further comprise: Selecting a type of context-dependent symbol based on a type of selected context-dependent information. Generating the context-dependent symbol that represents the selected context-dependent information by adapting the appearance of the selected type of context-dependent symbol to reflect the context-dependent information. [15] Computer-readable storage medium according to claim 11, where selecting the context-dependent information involves identifying the last page read in the e-book, and the last page read is more than a threshold number of e-book pages from the first e-book page; and where generating the scrubber includes generating the context-sensitive symbol, and the context-sensitive symbol includes a page thumbnail of the last read page. [16] Device for generating a navigation interface which facilitates the navigation of an e-book, the device comprising: a processor configured to execute modules; and a memory that stores the modules, the modules comprising: a parsing module configured to dynamically render the e-book as multiple e-book pages; a symbol selection module configured to: to obtain several context-dependent pieces of information linked to multiple locations in the e-book, each location being linked to one of the multiple e-book pages, and the multiple context-dependent pieces of information supplementing the content of the e-book at the multiple locations, and to select context-dependent information from the multiple context-dependent pieces of information, where the selected context-dependent information is linked to a second location in the e-book; and a navigation interface module that is configured: to display the first e-book page of several e-book pages, where the first e-book page is linked to a first position in the e-book; to create a scrubber representing a page area within the e-book, wherein the scrubber includes a context-sensitive symbol representing the selected context-sensitive information, and the context-sensitive symbol is positioned at a second position along the scrubber, the second position corresponding to the second location; and to display the scrubber with the context-dependent symbol in an interface that includes the first e-book page. [17] Device according to claim 16, further comprising a command detection module configured as follows: to receive a navigation command directed to a third position connected to the scrubber; to determine a distance between the third position and the second position; and responding to a comparison of the distance with a distance threshold, an action is performed that is associated with the context-dependent symbol. [18] Device according to claim 16, wherein selecting the context-dependent information from the multiple context-dependent information comprises: Identifying suitable context-dependent information by applying filter criteria to the multiple context-dependent pieces of information in order to remove unsuitable context-dependent information; Determining a classification of the appropriate context-dependent information according to selection criteria; and Selecting the context-dependent information from the appropriate context-dependent information based on the specified classification. [19] Device according to claim 16, further comprising a symbol generation module configured as follows: to select a type of context-dependent symbol based on a type of selected context-dependent information; and to generate the context-dependent symbol that represents the selected context-dependent information by adapting the appearance of the selected type of context-dependent symbol to reflect the context-dependent information. [20] Device according to claim 16: where selecting the context-dependent information involves identifying the last page read in the e-book, and the last page read is more than a threshold number of e-book pages from the first e-book page; and where generating the scrubber includes generating the context-sensitive symbol, and the context-sensitive symbol includes a page thumbnail of the last read page.