Display Content Segmentation for Screen Space Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window management systems on computer displays often lead to wasted screen space and reduced discernibility due to the constraint of large windows, which forces other applications into smaller areas, making it difficult to interact with them effectively.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize a control unit to separate a background content area into components when obscured by an active content area, allowing prioritized components to be displayed outside the active area, thereby optimizing screen usage and interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If a large window is used to display an application, then the display area for that application is improved, but other applications are forced into smaller remaining portions leading to wasted screen space and reduced discernibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the background content area into multiple components (prioritized and non-prioritized) that can be independently displayed. This allows the system to break down the obscured content into manageable portions that can be shown in available screen space, resolving the contradiction between maintaining large display areas and ensuring ease of interaction with all applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the temporal dimension by displaying components of the background content area at different times - showing prioritized components while the foreground application is active, and potentially showing non-prioritized components when the foreground application is not in use. This dimensional approach allows full content display without permanently reducing the foreground application's screen real estate.
2Stability of the object's composition
If grid-based window management is used to organize applications, then screen organization is improved, but the system becomes unaware of reduced space and relies on scrollbars making application engagement difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors the display state, identifying which content area components are currently visible and which are obscured. This feedback allows the system to dynamically adjust the display of background content components based on the current foreground application state, eliminating the need for scrollbars and improving application engagement while maintaining organized screen layout.
3Area of moving object
If background content areas are completely obscured by foreground applications, then the foreground application has full screen access, but the background application becomes inaccessible and screen space is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the background content area into prioritized and non-prioritized components. Prioritized components are displayed in available screen space even when obscured by the foreground application, ensuring critical information remains accessible. Non-prioritized components can be displayed when screen space permits or when the foreground application is not in use, preventing complete information loss while maintaining full foreground application screen access.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and a method include a display configured to show a first content area and a second content area. A control unit is in communication with the display. The control unit is configured to separate the second content area into a plurality of components in response to the first content area obscuring at least a portion of the second content area, and show at least one of the plurality of the components on a portion of the display that is outside of the first content area.