Display widgets for use in a multi-display environment

Abstract

An apparatus for controlling a secondary monitor with widgets displayed on a primary monitor. A display device displays a graphical user interface having at least one region to display at least one widget. The widget receives input via the graphical user interface. A hardware processor coupled with the display device interprets the input received via the widget of the graphical user interface and generates one or more control signals to be sent to the secondary monitor to modify operation of the secondary monitor based on the input received via the widget.

Description

DISPLAY WIDGETS FOR USE IN A MULTI-DISPLAY ENVIRONMENTCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 63 / 514426, filed 19 July 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to configuration and / or use of touch screen displays in agricultural equipment.BACKGROUND

[0003] Agricultural implements, such as planters, air seeders, harvesters, sprayers, side dress bars, etc., have a display monitor in a cab for displaying operational information of an agricultural operation in one or more formats. With more and more information being displayed, more monitors may be needed to view the additional information simultaneously. With limited space in a cab, some monitors may be placed out of reach of an operator, but it may still be desired to change information viewed on a monitor that is not within reach.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0004] In an aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for controlling a secondary monitor with widgets displayed on a primary monitor. A display device displays a graphical user interface having at least one region to display at least one widget. The widget receives input via the graphical user interface. A hardware processor coupled with the display device interprets the input received via the widget of the graphical user interface and generates one or more control signals to be sent to the secondary monitor to modify the operation of the secondary monitor based on the input received via the widget.

[0005] In some embodiments of the apparatus, the display device comprises a touchscreen display and the at least one widget functions as a button within the graphical user interface, wherein interaction with the button causes a corresponding pre-selected operational modification for the secondary monitor.

[0006] In some embodiments of the apparatus, the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding layout on the secondary monitor, and selection of one ofthe plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to provide a layout corresponding to the selected widget.

[0007] In some embodiments of the apparatus, the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding map to be displayed on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to cause the map corresponding to the selected widget to be displayed.

[0008] In some embodiments of the apparatus, the displayed map displays one or more layers as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

[0009] In some embodiments of the apparatus, the displayed map utilizes a legend as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

[0010] In some embodiments of the apparatus, the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding display configuration to be displayed on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to cause the display configuration corresponding to the selected widget to be displayed.

[0011] In some embodiments of the apparatus, the display configuration comprises a split layout having at least two maps displayed according to the selected widget configuration.

[0012] In an aspect of the invention there is provided a non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to display a graphical user interface having at least one region to display at least one widget, the widget to receive input via the graphical user interface, to interpret the input received via the widget of the graphical user interface, and to generate one or more control signals to be sent to the secondary monitor to modify operation of the secondary monitor based on the input received via the widget.

[0013] In some embodiments of the non-transitory computer readable medium, the display device comprises a touchscreen display and the at least one widget functions as a button within the graphical user interface, wherein interaction with the button causes a corresponding preselected operational modification for the secondary monitor.

[0014] In some embodiments of the non-transitory computer readable medium, the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding layout on the secondarymonitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to provide a layout corresponding to the selected widget.

[0015] In some embodiments of the non-transitory computer readable medium, the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding map to be displayed on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to cause the map corresponding to the selected widget to be displayed.

[0016] In some embodiments of the non-transitory computer readable medium, the displayed map displays one or more layers as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

[0017] In some embodiments of the non-transitory computer readable medium, the displayed map utilizes a legend as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

[0018] In some embodiments of the non-transitory computer readable medium, the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding display configuration to be displayed on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to cause the display configuration corresponding to the selected widget to be displayed.

[0019] In some embodiments of the non-transitory computer readable medium, the display configuration comprises a split layout having at least two maps displayed according to the selected widget configuration.

[0020] In an aspect of the invention there is provided a method comprising displaying a graphical user interface having at least one region to display at least one widget, the widget to receive input via the graphical user interface; interpreting the input received via the widget of the graphical user interface; and generating one or more control signals to be sent to the secondary monitor to modify the operation of the secondary monitor based on the input received via the widget.

[0021] In some embodiments of the method, the display device comprises a touchscreen display and the at least one widget functions as a button within the graphical user interface, wherein interaction with the button causes a corresponding pre-selected operational modification for the secondary monitor.

[0022] In some embodiments of the method, the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding layout on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to provide a layout corresponding to the selected widget.

[0023] In some embodiments of the method, the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding map to be displayed on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to cause the map corresponding to the selected widget to be displayed.

[0024] In some embodiments of the method, the displayed map displays one or more layers as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

[0025] In some embodiments of the method, the displayed map utilizes a legend as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

[0026] In some embodiments of the method, the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding display configuration to be displayed on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to cause the display configuration corresponding to the selected widget to be displayed.

[0027] In some embodiments of the method, the display configuration comprises a split layout having at least two maps displayed according to the selected widget configuration.

[0028] Within the scope of this application, it should be understood that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out herein, and individual features thereof may be taken independently or in any possible and compatible combination. Where features are described with reference to a single aspect or embodiment, it should be understood that such features are applicable to all aspects and embodiments unless otherwise stated or where such features are incompatible.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] One or more embodiments of the invention / disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0030] Figure 1 is a simplified top view illustrating a tractor having a primary monitor and a secondary monitor that can be configured and controlled according to the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 2 is a diagrammatic representation of a machine in the exemplary form of a computer system or device within which a set of instructions, for causing the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein, may be executed;

[0032] Figure 3 is an example illustration of a user interface displayed on, for example, a primary monitor having functionality according to the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 4 is an example illustration of a user interface displayed on, for example, a primary monitor having functionality according to the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 5 is an example illustration of a map selector popup having functionality according to the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 6 is an example illustration of a legend editor popup having functionality according to the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 7 is an example illustration of a user interface having an example widget;

[0037] Figure 8 is an example illustration of primary monitor configured to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 9 is an example illustration of primary monitor configured to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 10 is an example illustration of primary monitor configured to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 11 is an example illustration of primary monitor configured to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 12 is an example illustration of primary monitor configured to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 13 is an example illustration of primary monitor configured to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 14 is an example illustration of primary monitor configured to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 15 is an example illustration of primary monitor configured to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure; and

[0045] Figure 16 is an example flow diagram for an approach to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] All references cited herein are incorporated herein in their entireties. If there is a conflict between definitions herein and in an incorporated reference, the definition herein shall control.

[0047] Figure 1 illustrates tractor 5 drawing an agricultural implement, e.g., planter 10, comprising toolbar 14 operatively supporting multiple row units 200. Primary monitor 50 preferably including a hardware processor, memory and a display device to provide graphical user interface (“GUI”) (e.g., a touch-screen interface) is preferably located in the cab of tractor 5. Secondary monitor 55 preferably including a hardware processor, memory and a display device to provide a GUI and is also preferably located in the cab of tractor 5. While illustrated with a planter, the monitors can be used with any agricultural implement including, but not limited to, planters, air seeders, harvesters, sprayers, side dress bars, and tillage implements.

[0048] In a typical configuration, primary monitor 50 is installed in the cab of tractor 5 in a location that is convenient or ergonomic for the operator of tractor 5 to interact with primary monitor 50. For example, primary monitor may be generally in front of the operator within a typical arm’s length. A typical size for primary monitor 50 is 10 inches; however, any monitor size can be supported.

[0049] Secondary monitor 55 can be located beyond easy reach of the operator, for example, because of space constraints in the cab. Because of this, the operator may configure the closer display (e.g., primary monitor 50) for user interactions (e.g., control buttons to change rates or other settings) and the display that is farther away (e.g., secondary monitor 55) can be used for view-only information (e.g., maps).

[0050] The description that follows provides several approaches to provide improved usability of multi-monitor configurations that leverage the ergonomic placement of primary monitor 50. While most illustrated examples include two or three monitors; any number of monitors can be supported using the approaches described.

[0051] In various examples, primary monitor 50 has a configurable home screen where widgets can be placed in ad hoc locations as desired by the operator. The widgets on primary display can be used to, for example, control viewing and map settings on the second display. In the various examples of widgets that are described herein, widgets can be user-configured, hard-coded and / or fixed to a specific interface location. Different widgets can have different characteristics. For example, some widgets can be user-configured while other widgets are hard-coded or associated with one or more specific interface locations.

[0052] Figure 2 is a diagrammatic representation of a machine in the exemplary form of a computer system or device within which a set of instructions, for causing the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein, may be executed. Exemplary monitor 200 includes a processing system 220, a main memory 230 (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) such as synchronous DRAM (SDRAM) or Rambus DRAM (RDRAM), etc.), a static memory 240 (e.g., flash memory, static random-access memory (SRAM), etc.), which communicate with each other via a bus 290.

[0053] Processing system 220 is configured to execute instructions to perform algorithms and analysis to provide the monitor functionality as described herein. Monitor system 200 is configured to collect data and to transmit the data directly to a remote location via network interface 250 to, for example, a cloud entity that is connected to network 280. The data collected can be stored in static memory 240 and also in a remote location such as cloud entity for retrieval, archival and / or further processing.

[0054] Processing system 220 represents one or more general-purpose processing devices such as a microprocessor, central processing unit, or the like. More particularly, processing system 220 may be a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, or a processor implementing other instruction sets or processors implementing a combination of instruction sets. Processing system 220 may also be one or more special-purpose processing devices such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array(FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), network processor, or the like. Processing system 220 is configured to execute processing logic 225 for performing the operations and steps discussed herein.

[0055] Data storage device 210 may include a machine-accessible non-transitory medium 215 on which is stored one or more sets of instructions (e.g., software) embodying any one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein. The software may include, for example, an operating system and / or other control systems. Software 622 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 230 (e.g., software 235) and / or within processing system 220 during execution thereof by processing system 220, main memory 230 and processing system 220 also constituting machine-accessible storage media. The software may further be transmitted or received over network 280 via network interface 250. The machine-accessible non-transitory medium 215 may also be used to store data for configuration and / or use of widgets as described herein.

[0056] A user of monitor 200 can utilize the functionality provided by monitor 200 via use of touchscreen 200, which can be any type of touchscreen device. As mentioned above, an example primary monitor in a tractor application can be a touchscreen monitor in the 10-inch range and a secondary monitor in a tractor application can be smaller than the primary monitor.

[0057] In an example, touchscreen controller 260 can provide some or all of the monitor functionality described herein. In an example, widget manager 262 can control the placement, functionality and / or features of widgets displayed by monitor 200. Remote monitor manager 264 can interact with one or more remote monitors to allow widgets displayed on monitor 200 to control operation / functionality of a remote (e.g., secondary) monitor (not illustrated in Figure 2). Local monitor configuration manager 266 can support the configuration functionality (e.g., map selection, legend display and editing, map control, screen modes) for monitor 200.

[0058] Additional functionality that can be provided by touchscreen 270, touchscreen controller 260, widget manager 262, remote monitor manager 264 and / or local monitor configuration manager 266 is described below.

[0059] Figure 3 is an example illustration of a user interface displayed on, for example, a primary monitor having functionality according to the present disclosure. In the example of FIG. 3, interface 300 can be displayed on a monitor (e.g., primary monitor 50 or secondary monitor 55) in a tractor (e.g., tractor 5) or similar agricultural vehicle.

[0060] User interface 300 can include various elements through which a user can interact with systems and / or components of the host tractor. For example, user interface 300 can include buttons 310 for two (or more) preconfigured settings corresponding to user interface 300 on the primary monitor (e.g., primary monitor 50). In the specific example of Figure 3, buttons 310 include “Large Map” and “Standard.” The Standard button can cause user interface 300 to include a map of a first size and the Large Map button can cause the user interface 300 to include a map of a second, larger size. Additional and / or different buttons can be included in user interface 300 to control various aspects of user interface 300.

[0061] In an example, user interface 300 further includes one or more widgets 320. The widgets in user interface can correspond to a seeding population, for example. Seeding population is just one example of the many potential widgets that can be utilized including, but not limited to seeding population, seeding population state, seeding singulation, seeding SRI, seeding meter vacuum, seeding tank status, closing applied force, closing force margin, closing force state, and / or other downforce values. Many other widgets corresponding to planting, sidedress and / or harvest functionality can be supported.

[0062] In an example, widgets can be located in user interface 300 using one or more widget placeholders 330. As described with respect to various examples that follow, a user interacting with user interface 300 can customize user interface 300 by adding and / or moving widgets selected by the user. Some widgets can occupy a single widget placeholder and other (generally more complex) widgets can occupy multiple widget placeholders. As another example, a group of widgets can be placed in a region defined by multiple widget placeholders.

[0063] Figure 4 is an example illustration of a user interface displayed on, for example, a primary monitor having functionality according to the present disclosure. The example of Figure 4 further illustrates example locations for map selector 410, legend editor 420, split screen mode selector 430 and map controls 440. Map selector 410 can be used for example, to select between various map types (e.g., seeding maps, closing maps, downforce maps). In an example, activation of map selector 410 (e.g., by touching the map selector region of user interface 300) activates a map selector popup (one example of which is illustrated in Figure 5).

[0064] Legend Editor 420 can be used for example, to control a map legend (e.g., different colors for different densities or values). In an example, activation of legend editor 310 (e.g., by touching the legend editor region of user interface 300) activates a legend editor popup (oneexample of which is illustrated in Figure 6). Split screen mode selector 430 can be used to select between various screen formats some of which can include split screen configurations. Map controls 440 can be used to configure various characteristics (e.g., heading mode, zoom to filed, zoom to vehicle, perspective move, zoom in, zoom out) for the map(s) displayed on user interface 300. In an example, the map controls are shared across all maps that can be displayed, for example, using a split screen mode.

[0065] Figure 5 is an example illustration of a map selector popup having functionality according to the present disclosure. As mentioned above, providing input (e.g., touch on a touch screen, cursor / pointer movement and selection) of the map selector (e.g., map selector 410 in Figure 4) can cause activation of map selector popup 500. Within map selector popup 500, one or more sections can be provided to configure the map displayed on user interface 300.

[0066] In an example, map selector popup 500 can include seeding selector 510, closing selector 520 and / or downforce selector 530. Additional and / or different selectors can also be included.

[0067] Figure 6 is an example illustration of a legend editor popup having functionality according to the present disclosure. As mentioned above, providing input (e.g., touch on a touch screen, cursor / pointer movement and selection) of the legend editor (e.g., legend editor 420 in Figure 4) can cause activation of legend editor popup 600. Within legend editor popup 600, one or more sections can be provided to configure the map displayed on user interface 300.

[0068] In an example, legend editor popup 600 can include graphical characteristics selector 610, high range input 620 and / or low range input 630. Additional and / or different selectors can also be included.

[0069] In the description that follows there is provided various approaches that can be utilized where widgets on a first monitor (e.g., primary monitor 50) can control one or more elements of a second monitor (e.g., secondary monitor 55). In various examples, control of the second monitor can be via one or more widgets on the first monitor.

[0070] Figure 7 is an example illustration of a user interface having an example widget. In the example of Figure 7, field size widget 720 that provides an indication of the field where the host vehicle is currently operating. Field size widget 720 in user interface 300 can correspond to a seeding population, for example. Seeding population is just one example of the many potential widgets that can be utilized including, but not limited to seeding population, seeding population state, seeding singulation, seeding SRI, seeding meter vacuum, seeding tank status, closingapplied force, closing force margin, closing force state, and / or other downforce values. Many other widgets corresponding to planting, sidedress and / or harvest functionality can be supported.

[0071] Figure 8 is an example illustration of primary monitor configured to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure. In the example of Figure 8, secondary display control widget 820 provides control over content and / or functionality provided by a display external to primary display 800. That is, one or more widgets (e.g., 820) on a first display device (e.g., 50) can be used to select layouts (e.g., Layout 850, Layout 852, Layout 854) to be displayed on a second display device (e.g., 55).

[0072] In an example, secondary control widgets 820 are displayed on a first display device having user interface 300 to select a layout displayed on another (e.g., secondary) display device. The example illustrated in Figure 8 one of three layouts (e.g., Layout 1, Layout 2, Layout 3) can be selected to be used on a remote display (e.g., 800) via selection of a widget (or other interface component) 820 on the local display. In an example, the layouts can be configured (or selected from pre-configured layouts) through configuration using the local display. In another example, the layouts can be configured (or selected from pre-configured layouts) through configuration using the remote display and then selected on the local display.

[0073] As just one of many practical applications, an operator of a tractor can interact with a primary display (e.g., 50) to select a layout to be displayed on a secondary display (e.g., 55) that may be out of reach (or inconvenient to reach). This increases the functionality and usability of the secondary display by making it easier to use and more customizable for a user. The approach described in Figure 8 for two displays can also be extended to be applied to three or more displays.

[0074] Figure 9 is an example illustration of primary monitor configured to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure. The example of Figure 9 is similar to the example of Figure 8 in that a secondary display control widget 920 provides control over content and / or functionality provided by a display external to primary display 900. That is, one or more widgets (e.g., 920) on a first display device (e.g., 50) can be used to control content to be displayed on a second display device (e.g., 55).

[0075] The example of Figure 9 is more generic where the buttons provided (e.g., 930, 931, 932, 933, 934, 935) can be used to control the secondary display device in ways other than (or in addition to) layout. As just one simple example, buttons 930 and 933 could control a layout of the second display device, buttons 931 and 934 could control the brightness of the second display device, and buttons 932 and 935 could control map selection for the second display device. As another example, each of buttons 930, 932, 932, 933, 934 and 935 can correspond to a map so that when one of the buttons is selected the corresponding map is displayed on the second display device. Any other configuration can also be supported.

[0076] Figure 10 is an example illustration of primary monitor configured to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure. The example of Figure 10 is similar to the examples of Figures 8 and9 in that a secondary display control widget 1020 provides control over content and / or functionality provided by a display external to primary display 1000. That is, one or more widgets (e.g., 1020) on a first display device (e.g., 50) can be used to control content to be displayed on a second display device (e.g., 55).

[0077] The illustration of Figure 10 is an example in which the buttons provided (e.g., 1030, 1032) can be used to control the secondary display device by controlling a map viewed on the second display (e.g., via button 1030) and the split configuration (e.g., via button 1032). In the example of Figure 10, selection of button 1030 on the primary display allows a user to select the map to be displayed on the second display. Similarly, selection of button 1032 on the primary display allows the user to select between split map configurations to be displayed in the corresponding regions on the second display.

[0078] As illustrated in Figure 10, the split options have been deactivated so that there is no split display of the selected map. In an example, the split and / or map characteristics can be configured as described above with respect to Figures 3 through 6. Alternatively, the split and / or map characteristics can be configured in another manner.

[0079] Figure 12 is an example illustration of primary monitor configured to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure. The example of Figure 12 illustrates a configuration in which a top-bottom split is selected using split button 1230 on the primary display. In this example, top (e.g., button 1232) and bottom (e.g., button 1234) map buttons aredisplayed. Selection of the top and bottom map buttons can allow a user to select which maps are displayed in the corresponding regions on the second display.

[0080] Figure 13 is an example illustration of primary monitor configured to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure. The example of Figure 13 illustrates a configuration in which a 4- way split is selected using split button 1330 on the primary display. In this example, top left (e.g., button 1340), top right (e.g., button 1342), bottom left (e.g., button 1344) and bottom right (e.g., button 1346) map buttons are displayed. Selection of the map buttons can allow a user to select which maps are displayed in the corresponding regions on the second display.

[0081] Figure 14 is an example illustration of primary monitor configured to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure. Specifically, the example of Figure 14 illustrates a combination map selector (1420) and legend editor (1410) on first display to operate second display. In this example the user can interact with map selector 1420 in user interface 300 on the first display device to select one or more maps to be displayed on the second display device. Similarly, the user can interact with legend editor 1410 in user interface 300 on the first display device to edit one or more legends corresponding to the second display device.

[0082] Figure 15 is an example illustration of primary monitor configured to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure. The example of Figure 15 illustrates multiple widgets on first display to operate second and third displays.

[0083] Figure 16 is an example flow diagram for an approach to control a secondary monitor using a block of multiple widgets on the primary monitor to provide functionality according to the present disclosure. The example flow as illustrated in Figure 16 can be provided by one or more devices communicatively coupled with the display devices (e.g., the hardware of Figure 2, which can reside in an agricultural vehicle, for example).

[0084] In an example, there is provided a display having a graphical user interface with at least one region to display at least one widget. The widget can be used to receive user input through the graphical user interface, 1600.

[0085] One or more hardware devices can interpret the user input received via the widget, 1620. Various example widget layouts and input examples are provided in Figures 7-15. As discussed above, in the various examples of widgets that are described herein, widgets can be user- configured, hard-coded and / or fixed to a specific interface location. Different widgets can have different characteristics. For example, some widgets can be user-configured while other widgets are hard-coded or associated with one or more specific interface locations.

[0086] In response to interpreting the user input, 1620, the one or more hardware devices can Generate one or more control signals to be sent to the secondary monitor to modify operation of the secondary monitor based on the input received via the widget, 1640.

[0087] Example embodiments presented above may be implemented as any or a combination of one or more microchips or integrated circuits interconnected using a parent board, hardwired logic, software stored by a memory device and executed by a microprocessor, firmware, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and / or a field programmable gate array (FPGA). The term "logic" may include, by way of example, software or hardware and / or combinations of software and hardware.

[0088] Embodiments may be provided, for example, as a computer program product which may include one or more machine-readable media having stored thereon machine-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more machines such as a computer, network of computers, or other electronic devices, may result in the one or more machines carrying out operations in accordance with embodiments described herein. A machine-readable medium may include, but is not limited to, floppy diskettes, optical disks, CD-ROMs (Compact Disc-Read Only Memories), and magneto-optical disks, ROMs, RAMs, EPROMs (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memories), EEPROMs (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memories), magnetic or optical cards, flash memory, or other type of media / machine-readable medium suitable for storing machine-executable instructions.

[0089] Moreover, embodiments may be downloaded as a computer program product, wherein the program may be transferred from a remote computer (e.g., a server) to a requesting computer (e.g., a client) by way of one or more data signals embodied in and / or modulated by a carrier wave or other propagation medium via a communication link (e.g., a modem and / or network connection).

[0090] The drawings and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions in any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples. Numerous variations, whether explicitly given in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimension, and use of material, are possible. The scope of embodiments is at least as broad as given by the following claims.

[0091] Reference in the specification to “one embodiment” or “an example” or similar terminology means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” or “in an example” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same example embodiment.

[0092] It is contemplated that any number and type of components may be added to and / or removed to facilitate various embodiments including adding, removing, and / or enhancing certain features. For brevity, clarity, and ease of understanding, many of the standard and / or known components, such as those of a computing device, are not shown or discussed here. It is contemplated that embodiments, as described herein, are not limited to any particular technology, topology, system, architecture, and / or standard and are dynamic enough to adopt and adapt to any future changes.

[0093] The terms “component”, “module”, “system,” and the like as used herein are intended to refer to a computer-related entity, either software-executing general-purpose processor, hardware, firmware and a combination thereof. For example, a component may be, but is not limited to being, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable, a thread of execution, a program, and / or a computer.

[0094] By way of illustration, both an application running on a server and the server can be a component. One or more components may reside within a process and / or thread of execution, and a component may be localized on one computer and / or distributed between two or morecomputers. Also, these components can execute from various non-transitory, computer readable media having various data structures stored thereon. The components may communicate via local and / or remote processes such as in accordance with a signal having one or more data packets (e.g., data from one component interacting with another component in a local system, distributed system, and / or across a network such as the Internet with other systems via the signal).

[0095] Computer executable components can be stored, for example, on non-transitory, computer readable media including, but not limited to, an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), CD (compact disc), DVD (digital video disk), ROM (read only memory), floppy disk, hard disk, EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read only memory), memory stick or any other storage device type, in accordance with the claimed subject matter.EXAMPLES

[0096] The following are nonlimiting examples.

[0097] Example 1 - an apparatus for controlling a secondary monitor having its own control hardware with inputs received via widgets displayed on a primary monitor, the apparatus comprising: the primary monitor having a hardware processor, a memory device and a touchscreen interface to display a graphical user interface having at least one region with at least one widget, the widget to receive input via the graphical user interface of the primary monitor; and the hardware processor to interpret the input received via the widget of the graphical user interface and to generate one or more control signals to be sent to the secondary monitor having a hardware processor, a memory device and a display device to display a secondary graphical user interface, the one or more control signals from the hardware processor of the primary monitor to modify functionality of the secondary monitor based on the input received via the widget displayed by the primary monitor.

[0098] Example 2 - the apparatus of Example 1 , wherein the at least one widget functions as a button within the graphical user interface, wherein interaction with the button causes a corresponding pre-selected operational modification for the secondary monitor.

[0099] Example 3 - the apparatus of Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding layout on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one ormore control signals to the secondary monitor to provide a layout corresponding to the selected widget.

[0100] Example 4 - the apparatus of Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding map to be displayed on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to cause the map corresponding to the selected widget to be displayed.

[0101] Example 5 - the apparatus of Example 4 wherein the displayed map displays one or more layers as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

[0102] Example 6 - the apparatus of Example 4 wherein the displayed map utilizes a legend as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

[0103] Example 7 - the apparatus of Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding display configuration to be displayed on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to cause the display configuration corresponding to the selected widget to be displayed.

[0104] Example 8 - the apparatus of Example 7 wherein the display configuration comprises a split layout having at least two maps displayed according to the selected widget configuration.

[0105] Example 9 - A non-transitory computer readable medium having instructions to provide the functionality as recited in any one or more of Examples 1 through 8.

[0106] Example 10 - a non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: display, via a display device having a hardware processor, a memory device and a touchscreen device, a graphical user interface having at least one region to display at least one widget, the widget to receive input via the graphical user interface displayed by the touchscreen device; interpret the input received via the widget of the graphical user interface; and generate one or more control signals to be sent to the secondary monitor having a hardware processor, a memory device and a display device, to modify functionality of the secondary monitor based on the input received via the widget displayed on a primary monitor, the secondary monitor having its own control hardware.

[0107] Example 11 - the non-transitory computer readable medium of Example 10, wherein the at least one widget functions as a button within the graphical user interface, wherein interaction with the button causes a corresponding pre-selected operational modification for the secondary monitor.

[0108] Example 12 - the non-transitory computer readable medium of Example 10 or Example 11, wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding layout on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to provide a layout corresponding to the selected widget.

[0109] Example 13 - the non-transitory computer readable medium of Example 10 or Example 11, wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding layout on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to provide a layout corresponding to the selected widget.

[0110] Example 14 - the non-transitory computer readable medium of Example 13 wherein the displayed map displays one or more layers as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

[0111] Example 15 - the non-transitory computer readable medium of Example 13 wherein the displayed map utilizes a legend as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

[0112] Example 16 - the non-transitory computer readable medium of Example 10 or Example 11, wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding display configuration to be displayed on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to cause the display configuration corresponding to the selected widget to be displayed.

[0113] Example 17 - the non-transitory computer readable medium of Example 16 wherein the display configuration comprises a split layout having at least two maps displayed according to the selected widget configuration.

[0114] Example 18. A method comprising: displaying, via a display device having a hardware processor, a memory device and a touchscreen device, a graphical user interface having at leastone region to display at least one widget, the widget to receive input via the graphical user interface displayed by the touchscreen device; interpreting the input received via the widget of the graphical user interface; and generating one or more control signals to be sent to the secondary monitor having a hardware processor, a memory device and a display device, to modify functionality of the secondary monitor based on the input received via the widget.

[0115] Example 19 - the method of Example 18, wherein the at least one widget functions as a button within the graphical user interface, wherein interaction with the button causes a corresponding pre-selected operational modification for the secondary monitor.

[0116] Example 20 - the method of Example 18 or Example 19, wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding layout on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to provide a layout corresponding to the selected widget.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An apparatus for controlling a secondary monitor having its own control hardware with inputs received via widgets displayed on a primary monitor, the apparatus comprising: the primary monitor having a hardware processor, a memory device and a touchscreen interface to display a graphical user interface having at least one region with at least one widget, the widget to receive input via the graphical user interface of the primary monitor; and the hardware processor to interpret the input received via the widget of the graphical user interface and to generate one or more control signals to be sent to the secondary monitor having a hardware processor, a memory device and a display device to display a secondary graphical user interface, the one or more control signals from the hardware processor of the primary monitor to modify functionality of the secondary monitor based on the input received via the widget displayed by the primary monitor.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one widget functions as a button within the graphical user interface, wherein interaction with the button causes a corresponding pre-selected operational modification for the secondary monitor.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding layout on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to provide a layout corresponding to the selected widget.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding map to be displayed on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to cause the map corresponding to the selected widget to be displayed.

5. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein the displayed map displays one or more layers as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

6. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein the displayed map utilizes a legend as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

7. The apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding display configuration to be displayed on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to cause the display configuration corresponding to the selected widget to be displayed.

8. The apparatus of claim 7 wherein the display configuration comprises a split layout having at least two maps displayed according to the selected widget configuration.

9. A non-transitory computer readable medium having instructions to provide the functionality as recited in any one or more of claims 1 through 8.

10. A non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: display, via a display device having a hardware processor, a memory device and a touchscreen device, a graphical user interface having at least one region to display at least one widget, the widget to receive input via the graphical user interface displayed by the touchscreen device; interpret the input received via the widget of the graphical user interface; and generate one or more control signals to be sent to the secondary monitor having a hardware processor, a memory device and a display device, to modify functionality of the secondary monitor based on the input received via the widget displayed on a primary monitor, the secondary monitor having its own control hardware.

11. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 10, wherein the at least one widget functions as a button within the graphical user interface, wherein interaction with the button causes a corresponding pre-selected operational modification for the secondary monitor.

12. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding layout on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to provide a layout corresponding to the selected widget.

13. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding layout on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to provide a layout corresponding to the selected widget.

14. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 13 wherein the displayed map displays one or more layers as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

15. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 13 wherein the displayed map utilizes a legend as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

16. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 10 or claim 11 , wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding display configuration to be displayed on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to cause the display configuration corresponding to the selected widget to be displayed.

17. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 16 wherein the display configuration comprises a split layout having at least two maps displayed according to the selected widget configuration.

18. A method comprising: displaying, via a display device having a hardware processor, a memory device and a touchscreen device, a graphical user interface having at least one region to display at least one widget, the widget to receive input via the graphical user interface displayed by the touchscreen device; interpreting the input received via the widget of the graphical user interface; and generating one or more control signals to be sent to the secondary monitor having a hardware processor, a memory device and a display device, to modify functionality of the secondary monitor based on the input received via the widget.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the at least one widget functions as a button within the graphical user interface, wherein interaction with the button causes a corresponding pre-selected operational modification for the secondary monitor.

20. The method of claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding layout on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to provide a layout corresponding to the selected widget.

21. The method of claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding layout on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to provide a layout corresponding to the selected widget.

22. The method of claim 21 wherein the displayed map displays one or more layers as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

23. The method of claim 21 wherein the displayed map utilizes a legend as configured via the graphical user interface of the primary display device.

24. The method of claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the at least one widget comprises a plurality of widgets each having a corresponding display configuration to be displayed on the secondary monitor and selection of one of the plurality of widgets causes the hardware processor to send one or more control signals to the secondary monitor to cause the display configuration corresponding to the selected widget to be displayed.

25. The method of claim 24 wherein the display configuration comprises a split layout having at least two maps displayed according to the selected widget configuration.

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