Automated Unit Conversion in Computing Device Applications

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing unit conversion applications require users to manually launch and switch between applications, making it inconvenient and time-consuming, especially on mobile devices with limited screen size.

Innovation Solution

A computing device method and medium that automatically converts units by identifying numerical values in one system and displaying equivalent values in another system without requiring a separate conversion application, using a processor and memory to perform the conversion and display the results intuitively, such as in text bubbles or callouts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a separate conversion application is used, then unit conversion functionality is provided, but user convenience deteriorates due to requiring manual launch and switching between applications

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser convenienceVSAvoidapplication structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the unit conversion functionality into the existing application by integrating a conversion module that can automatically detect numerical values and perform conversions within the same interface, eliminating the need for separate conversion applications and manual switching

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The application is enhanced to perform multiple functions including both its original purpose and automatic unit conversion, allowing it to serve as both the primary application and a conversion tool simultaneously through integrated detection and conversion capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If manual conversion process is used, then conversion accuracy is maintained, but time consumption increases due to requiring user input and interaction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconversion speedVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary detection of numerical values and their units within the application interface before user request, automatically identifying what needs conversion and preparing the conversion parameters in advance, so that conversion can be executed immediately when triggered

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The conversion module automatically detects numerical values, identifies their units, determines the target units based on application context, and performs the conversion without requiring user input for these parameters, making the system self-sufficient for the conversion process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2713283B1Computing device with automated conversion of units
Publication Date: 2017.08.16 BLACKBERRY LTD
  • EP2713283B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2713283B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2713283B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A method for computer-implemented unit-conversion method, the method comprising identifying a first numerical value in a first system of units displayed on a computing device, converting the first numerical value in the first system of units into a second numerical value, and displaying the second numerical value and the second system of units on the computing device.