Asymmetric Foldable Display for Usable Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional user terminal devices with foldable displays can only be used symmetrically, limiting functionality when folded, as the entire display is hidden, and existing interaction methods are insufficient for performing diverse functions.
Innovation Solution
A user terminal device with a display divided into two areas by a folding line, allowing asymmetric folding to expose part of the display, which detects user interactions along the long or short sides of the exposure area to display different function execution screens, enabling continued use and interaction even when folded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the display is folded symmetrically with reference to the folding line, then the device size is minimized, but the display is completely hidden and cannot be used
Solution Approach 1:
The display is folded asymmetrically with reference to the folding line, exposing a portion of the display area. This asymmetric folding configuration allows the display to remain partially visible and usable while still achieving compact form factor, resolving the contradiction between minimizing device size and maintaining display usability
2Volume of moving object
If the display is folded completely, then the device becomes compact, but the user cannot watch or use the display
Solution Approach 1:
By implementing asymmetric folding where the display is folded to expose a predetermined area rather than folding completely, the device achieves compactness while preserving access to display content through the exposed portion
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of interaction by enabling touch operations on the exposed display area, transforming the folded state from a non-functional compact form to an interactive state where limited but useful functionality is maintained
3Device complexity
If existing interaction methods are used, then the interface is simple, but diverse functions cannot be performed when folded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic interaction methods where the system detects the direction and type of touch operations on the exposed display area and responds by executing different functions. This dynamic response mechanism enables diverse functionality while maintaining a relatively simple interface structure
Solution Approach 2:
The exposed display area serves multiple functions: it can display information, accept touch inputs in various directions, and trigger different operations based on the interaction type. This multi-functionality is achieved within the constrained folded state without requiring complex additional components
Data Source
AI summary
A user terminal device and a displaying method thereof are provided. The user terminal device includes a display which is divided by a folding line into a first area and a second area, the second area being larger than the first area and comprising an exposure area that is exposed while the display is folded along the folding line such that the first area faces the second area, a detector configured to detect a first user interaction of moving along a long side of the exposure area and a second user interaction of moving along a short side of the exposure area, and a controller configured to display a first function execution screen on the exposure area in response to detecting the first user interaction, and display a second function execution screen on the exposure area in response to detecting the second user interaction.