Analog Clock Display with Time Event Icons
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing graphical user interfaces on electronic devices, particularly on small screens like smart watches, face challenges in effectively presenting time event information in a compact and intuitive manner, making it difficult for users to quickly access and manage reminders and appointments.
Innovation Solution
An analog clock display with icons representing time events that can be switched from an hour scale to a minute scale based on proximity to the event, along with interactive features such as touch input and movement sensors to allow users to manipulate and view additional information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If time event information is displayed on a small screen, then the device can provide calendar functionality, but the display area is limited and information becomes difficult to access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a traditional linear or grid-based calendar view to a radial analog clock interface where time events are positioned along the circumference. This dimensional change allows multiple events to be displayed simultaneously in a compact circular space, effectively increasing information density without requiring more screen area.
Solution Approach 2:
The analog clock face is segmented into hourly and minute scales, with time events represented as discrete icons positioned at their respective times. This segmentation allows users to quickly scan and identify specific events without being overwhelmed by a continuous list, improving accessibility within the limited display area.
2Loss of information
If multiple time events are displayed simultaneously, then users can see upcoming events, but the display becomes cluttered and hard to read
Solution Approach 1:
Different visual properties are applied to different elements on the clock face: hourly events use one scale while minute-level events use another scale with different visual characteristics. This local differentiation allows multiple events to coexist without visual confusion, as each event type has its own designated space and representation style.
Solution Approach 2:
Time events are represented as simplified icon copies rather than full text entries. Each event is depicted as a small graphical icon positioned on the clock face, providing essential information at a glance while leaving detailed information available upon user interaction, thus reducing visual clutter.
3Ease of operation
If the clock interface is simplified for easy reading, then the display is clear, but interactive features are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The analog clock interface serves multiple functions: it displays the current time, shows upcoming time events, provides navigation through event selection, and offers access to detailed event information. This multi-functionality is achieved within a single unified interface, eliminating the need for separate screens or complex navigation structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface provides visual feedback through animated indicators showing time progression and event proximity. When a time event approaches, the system provides noticeable visual cues to alert the user, creating an interactive experience that responds to the passage of time without requiring constant user input.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device is described herein. The electronic device includes a processor, a display screen, and a computer-readable medium that includes instructions to direct the actions of a processor. The instructions are to direct the processor to display an analog clock on the display screen, receive information about a time event, and display a time event icon on the analog clock at a position that identifies a time of the time event.