Arced Path Generation for User Interface Element Animation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional computing interfaces typically use linear paths to move user interface elements, which can result in unnatural and unengaging animations, failing to simulate real-world movements and potentially leading to user interface clutter when elements are rearranged.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method to generate an arced path of travel for user interface elements based on start and end point coordinates, minimum and maximum arc angles, and concavity, using velocity profiles to animate the elements along the path, while considering user preferences, system settings, and orientation to avoid collisions and enhance user experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If linear paths are used to move user interface elements, then the movement is simple and direct, but the animation appears unnatural and unengaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by replacing linear paths with arced paths for animating user interface elements. The arced path is generated using mathematical formulas that calculate a series of points forming a curve between start and end positions, controlled by parameters such as arc angle and concavity. This curvature makes the animation appear more natural and engaging while maintaining manageable computational complexity through standardized path generation algorithms.
2Ease of operation
If arced paths are generated with multiple parameters, then the animation becomes more natural and aesthetically pleasing, but the computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by defining an arced path through specific controllable parameters including arc angle (minimum and maximum values), concavity, and velocity profile parameters. These parameters allow the system to generate aesthetically pleasing animations while maintaining computational efficiency. The parameters can be adjusted to achieve different animation styles and can be optimized to balance visual quality with processing requirements.
3Ease of operation
If velocity profiles are applied to control animation speed, then the movement becomes more realistic, but the complexity of animation control increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing velocity profiles that control the speed of user interface elements along the arced path. The velocity profile varies the animation speed dynamically, typically starting faster and slowing down as the element approaches its destination, or adjusting speed based on the slope and curvature of the path. This creates more realistic movement that mimics physical motion while the underlying control mechanism remains a systematic algorithm that manages complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are provided for generating an arced path of travel for a user interface element. In accordance with one implementation, a method is provided that includes operations performed by at least one processor. The operations of the method include determining coordinates for a start point and an end point of the user interface element corresponding to locations on a user interface. The method may also include determining a minimum arc angle and a maximum arc angle for an arc. Additionally, the method may generate an arced path based on the start point coordinates, the end point coordinates, the minimum arc angle, and the maximum arc angle. The method may also generate commands that move the user interface element along the arced path in the user interface.