Dynamic GUI Layout Adjustment via Accelerometer Orientation Data

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current graphical user interfaces (GUIs) on handheld devices are static and do not accommodate for the dynamic movements and orientations of portable electronic devices, failing to provide an adaptive and immersive user experience.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that utilizes a base layer and additional layers on a display to mimic the movement of a portable electronic device by shifting elements such as icons and background images based on detected movement, using sensors like accelerometers to provide movement data for adjusting the layout and perspective view.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a static GUI presentation is used, then the interface is simple and easy to implement, but it does not accommodate device movement and orientation changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of device movement and orientationVSAvoidGUI presentation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transforming the static GUI into a dynamic presentation that automatically adjusts based on detected device movement and orientation. The GUI elements (icons, text, images) are repositioned and reoriented in response to accelerometer data, allowing the interface to adapt to various device orientations without requiring manual user input or complex configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If the GUI dynamically adjusts to device movement, then the user experience becomes more immersive and interactive, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser experience immersionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements self-service by automatically detecting device movement through the accelerometer and autonomously adjusting the GUI presentation without requiring user intervention. The accelerometer continuously monitors device orientation, and the system automatically repositions GUI elements to match the detected orientation, creating an immersive experience while minimizing the burden on the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Shape

If multiple layers are used to represent depth, then the GUI becomes more three-dimensional and immersive, but the rendering complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethree-dimensional presentationVSAvoidrendering complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the GUI into multiple distinct layers (e.g., foreground layer, background layer, intermediate layers) that can be independently positioned and rendered at different depths. This layered structure enables three-dimensional presentation while managing rendering complexity through systematic organization of visual elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach enhances the user experience by dynamically adjusting the GUI to reflect the device's orientation and movement, providing a more immersive and interactive interface that mimics the user's perspective changes, while reverting to a default arrangement when no further movement is detected.

Implementation Method 1

using sensors like accelerometers to provide movement data for adjusting the layout and perspective view

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAccelerometer: Accelerometer

Data Source

PatentEP2256613B1System and method for adjusting presentation of text and images on an electronic device according to an orientation of the device
Publication Date: 2012.10.24 BLACKBERRY LTD
  • EP2256613B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2256613B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2256613B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a system, method and device for controlling the display of elements in a screen on an electronic device, according to an orientation of the device. In the system, a graphics management system for elements displayed in a screen on a display on an electronic device is provided. The system comprises: a sensor; a movement detection module connected to the sensor providing an orientation signal registering a notable signal from the sensor; and a graphical user interface (GUI) adjustment module to determine a new layout for the elements being displayed on the display utilizing orientation data provided by the movement detection module. The sensor may provide orientation data indicating a new orientation of the device. Also, the GUI adjustment module may provide the new layout by shifting a position of one or more of the elements in the screen to reflect the new orientation of the device.