Cross-Device Object Drag Using Native Terminal Interaction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices are often used independently, lacking efficient methods for collaborative object drag between multiple terminals, which hinders seamless interaction and user experience in collaborative scenarios.

Innovation Solution

A cross-device object drag method and apparatus that allows users to drag objects like windows or UI elements between terminals, enabling direct and explicit interaction without requiring extended screens or additional software, by sending drag data between connected terminals to synchronize the object's display.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If terminals are used independently, then each terminal operates autonomously, but collaborative interaction between terminals is hindered

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecollaborative interaction capabilityVSAvoidsystem integration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the collaborative interaction into independent drag operations that can be performed on each terminal individually, while the system coordinates these segmented operations across devices. Each terminal handles drag events independently but communicates with other terminals to achieve coordinated cross-device drag effects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a universal drag mechanism that works across different terminal types and operating systems. The same drag operation can function within a single terminal or across multiple terminals, providing multi-functionality without requiring different interaction methods for different device configurations.

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

2Ease of operation

If cross-device drag is implemented, then object transfer between terminals is enabled, but additional software or extended screens are traditionally required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedrag operation simplicityVSAvoidsoftware dependency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables terminals to perform cross-device drag operations using their own native drag functionality without requiring external auxiliary software. Each terminal's existing drag mechanism serves the cross-device function directly, eliminating the need for additional software layers or projection windows.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a communication mechanism that acts as an intermediary between terminals during drag operations. This mediator enables direct drag data exchange between devices without requiring extended screen software or complex projection systems, simplifying the overall system architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If objects are dragged between terminals, then collaborative efficiency is improved, but drag smoothness and visual continuity may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecollaborative usage efficiencyVSAvoiddrag animation smoothness
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary actions by establishing communication links and synchronizing states between terminals before drag operations begin. This preparation ensures that when drag operations occur, the visual transition is smooth and continuous across devices without delays or disruptions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where terminals continuously exchange drag state information during the drag operation. This real-time feedback ensures that the visual representation of the dragged object remains consistent and smooth across multiple terminals, maintaining animation continuity throughout the transfer process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12393328B2Cross-device object drag method and device
Publication Date: 2025.08.19 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
  • US12393328B2 patent drawing
  • US12393328B2 patent drawing
  • US12393328B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The method comprises: a first terminal displays an object on a display of the first terminal. The first terminal receives a drag operation entered by a user. The drag operation is used to initiate drag for the object. The first terminal displays, on the display of the first terminal in response to the drag operation, an animation in which the object moves with the drag operation. The first terminal sends drag data to a second terminal after determining that a drag intent of the user is cross-device drag. The drag data is used by the second terminal to display the object on a display of the second terminal.