Computing Device Function Selection with Enlarged Visual Cues
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in accurately selecting function elements on computing devices, especially in unstable environments or with limited dexterity, due to the need for precise finger movements or screen enlargement, which can be challenging on small screens or during multitasking.
Innovation Solution
A computing device that displays user-selectable function elements in a first format, allowing users to select a portion of the screen, and then displays associated function elements in a second format, highlighting and enlarging them for easier selection, using a user-assist mode that identifies nearby elements and provides visual cues for accurate choice.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the screen is enlarged by wiping fingers over the screen, then the area of interest is expanded to facilitate accurate selection, but the user must concentrate for an extended period and exhibit substantial manual dexterity
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically detecting and enlarging the area of interest before the user needs to make a selection. The device proactively identifies regions containing function elements and presents them in an enlarged format, eliminating the need for users to perform the complex finger-wiping gesture and extended concentration required by manual zooming methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system serves itself by automatically identifying areas of interest and presenting enlarged views without requiring user intervention. The device monitors screen content, detects function elements, and autonomously provides enlarged presentations of relevant areas, freeing the user from the burden of manual dexterity requirements while maintaining high selection accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If the screen is enlarged by wiping fingers over the screen, then the area of interest is expanded, but the user must shrink the screen back to its former size to continue viewing
Solution Approach 1:
The system prepares the enlarged view in advance and maintains it until the selection is complete, eliminating the need for users to perform the time-consuming reverse wiping action to restore the original screen size. The enlarged presentation persists throughout the selection process, allowing users to immediately return to normal viewing without additional manual operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary mechanism that automatically manages the transition between normal and enlarged views. Instead of requiring users to manually shrink the screen, the device acts as a mediator that detects when selection is complete and automatically restores the original display, saving time and reducing operational complexity.
3Productivity
If a user performs navigational operations or multi-tasks simultaneously, then productivity increases, but the ability to accurately select function elements is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service by automatically identifying and presenting enlarged areas of interest without requiring user attention or manual manipulation. This allows users to engage in multi-tasking or navigational operations while the device autonomously manages the display enhancement, maintaining selection accuracy even when the user's attention is divided.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection and presentation of areas of interest before the user needs to make selections, allowing users to focus on other tasks. The automatic identification and enlargement of relevant screen areas occurs in the background, ensuring accuracy is maintained regardless of the user's cognitive load or concurrent activities.
4Area of stationary object
If the screen size is small, then the device is portable and compact, but users experience difficulty selecting function elements accurately
Solution Approach 1:
The system resolves the contradiction by transitioning from a two-dimensional flat screen to a multi-dimensional presentation. When area of interest is detected, the system creates an enlarged overlay or popup that adds depth and scale to the display, allowing small-screen devices to provide large-element interactions without sacrificing portability or requiring physical screen enlargement.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a computing device comprising: a display portion for displaying information; and a user input portion for receiving an input from a user, the device being operable to display a first set of user-selectable function elements in a first format, the device being arranged to receive an input from a user corresponding to a user-selected portion of the display portion and to display a second set of function elements comprising one or more function elements of the first set of user-selectable function elements that are associated with the selected portion of the display portion in a second format different from the first format, the device being operable to allow a function element displayed in the second format to be selected by the user thereby to execute a function associated with the element.