Context-Aware User Interface for Mobile Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing computer user interface techniques for performing operations based on context are cumbersome and inefficient, often requiring multiple key presses or keystrokes, wasting user time and device energy, particularly in battery-operated devices.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a method where a computer system dynamically adjusts user interfaces and input mechanisms based on whether it will be moving within a predetermined period of time, displaying different sets of controls and configuring operations accordingly to reduce the need for user inputs and conserve power.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a complex user interface with multiple controls is displayed, then more functions are accessible, but user time and device energy are wasted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction accessibilityVSAvoiduser time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically adjusts the user interface by displaying different sets of controls based on the device's movement context. When the device is stationary, a comprehensive set of controls is displayed. When the device is moving, a simplified set of controls is displayed. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by making the interface versatile when needed and efficient when movement is detected.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by providing different levels of interface complexity in different contextual situations. Instead of a uniform interface, the system tailors the control set to the specific context (moving vs. stationary), delivering appropriate functionality at each moment without unnecessary complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If a complex user interface with multiple key presses is used, then more operations can be performed, but device energy is consumed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation capabilityVSAvoiddevice energy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically modifies the user interface based on device movement detection. When movement is detected, the interface transitions to a simplified mode with fewer controls, reducing the computational and display energy required. When stationary, the full interface is available, maximizing operation capability without unnecessary energy consumption during movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the interface parameter (control set complexity) based on the movement parameter. By monitoring device movement and adjusting the number and type of displayed controls accordingly, the system optimizes the balance between operation capability and energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Loss of time

If a simplified user interface is displayed, then user time is reduced, but fewer functions are accessible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser timeVSAvoidfunction accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The interface dynamically adapts its complexity based on contextual needs. During movement, a simplified interface reduces user time requirements. When stationary, the comprehensive interface restores full function accessibility. This temporal and contextual dynamics resolves the contradiction by providing the appropriate level of complexity at the appropriate time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Adaptability or versatility

If comprehensive controls are always displayed, then all functions are accessible, but cognitive burden increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction accessibilityVSAvoidcognitive burden
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by providing context-appropriate control sets rather than a uniform comprehensive interface. During movement, only essential controls are displayed, reducing cognitive burden. When stationary, full functionality is available. This localized adaptation of interface complexity resolves the contradiction between versatility and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS20250110637A1User interfaces for performing operations
Publication Date: 2025.04.03 APPLE INC
  • US20250110637A1 patent drawing
  • US20250110637A1 patent drawing
  • US20250110637A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure generally relates to user interfaces and techniques for performing one or more operations in accordance with some examples, such as displaying user interfaces and/or configuring a device to perform a respective operation.