Companion Device Screen Orientation via Rigid Link
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Solution Overview
Problem
Handheld companion devices face challenges in synchronizing screen content orientation when attached to mobile devices, as existing re-orientation mechanisms can be unreliable, especially when rotation is slow or occurs on a flat surface, leading to misalignment of orientations between the companion device and mobile device screens.
Innovation Solution
A handheld companion device with a rigid physical connection and communication means that synchronizes screen content orientation by receiving orientation data from the mobile device and re-arranging contents according to the received data, using a master/slave concept and simple signaling mechanisms to ensure synchronized re-orientation with the mobile device, potentially using a TRRS audio connector for bidirectional communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a handheld companion device uses independent sensors for screen re-orientation, then it can autonomously determine orientation, but the re-orientation becomes unreliable when rotation is slow or occurs on a flat surface
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device acts as an intermediary, receiving orientation data from external sources (such as accelerometers or gyroscopes) and transmitting this orientation information to the companion device. This mediator approach allows the companion device to obtain reliable orientation data without requiring its own complex sensor system, thereby improving re-orientation reliability while reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical sensor-based orientation detection system in the companion device with a communication-based system. Instead of using physical sensors to detect orientation, the companion device receives orientation data electronically from the mobile device, substituting a mechanical detection system with an information transmission system.
2Reliability
If the companion device uses a rigid physical connection to the mobile device, then communication and orientation synchronization are improved, but the device loses flexibility in positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid physical connection serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the companion device, establishes electrical communication channels for data transmission, and enables orientation synchronization. This multi-functionality allows the single connection structure to achieve reliable orientation synchronization while the software layer maintains positioning flexibility through virtual positioning adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a handheld companion device, including: a screen, rigid physical connection means, communication means, adapted for setting up and supporting at least one communication link with at least one external computerized system; and a memory storing computerized methods. The present invention is further directed to related systems and methods for automatically rotating contents displayed on such devices, when rigidly attached on a handheld mobile device.