Information Processing Apparatus Dynamic Menu Image Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional information processing apparatuses lack a novel method to change displayed images, relying on predetermined time intervals or user-switched operations, which can be monotonous for users.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus capable of being opened and closed, featuring a display screen that changes images by this action, allowing for novel image display management through storage, imaging, and control mechanisms, including random or ordered selection and user-set preferences.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If images are changed at predetermined time intervals or by user switch operations, then the display function is simple and reliable, but the user engagement and interest are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser engagementVSAvoidimage change mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The information processing apparatus automatically changes displayed images based on its own operational states (opening/closing, power on/off, mode switching) without requiring user switch operations. The system serves itself by using its operational state changes as triggers for image changes, thereby enhancing user engagement while maintaining simple operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The image display system transitions from static time-interval-based changes to dynamic state-based changes. Images are changed dynamically in response to real-time operational states of the apparatus such as opening/closing the device, power on/off events, and mode switching, making the display more engaging and responsive to user interaction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Volume of moving object

If the display screen is provided inside when closed and outside when opened, then the apparatus is compact and portable, but the image display visibility is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapparatus compactnessVSAvoiddisplay visibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The display screen dynamically changes position between inside (hidden) and outside (visible) states based on the opening/closing of the apparatus. When the apparatus is opened, the display screen moves to an outside position for enhanced visibility during use. When closed, it moves inside to maintain compactness and portability, effectively resolving the contradiction between compactness and visibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple images are stored and managed, then the content variety is increased, but the management complexity and time required for selection are increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontent varietyVSAvoidimage selection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically selects and displays images based on its operational states without requiring user intervention for selection. The image management system serves itself by triggering appropriate image changes based on events such as opening/closing the apparatus, power on/off, and mode switching, thereby providing content variety while eliminating selection time for users.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple images are pre-stored in the storage unit with different types (taken images, captured images, etc.). The system has preliminarily organized images by type and readiness state, so that when an operational event occurs, the appropriate pre-prepared image can be immediately displayed without requiring user selection or additional processing time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10437424B2Information processing apparatus and computer-readable storage medium recording information processing program
Publication Date: 2019.10.08 NINTENDO CO LTD
  • US10437424B2 patent drawing
  • US10437424B2 patent drawing
  • US10437424B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An example information processing apparatus includes a display; storage configured to store one or more applications; and a hardware processor configured to control the display to display a menu screen, including one or more selection images operable for launching applications, both when the information processing apparatus is started and when executing of a launched application is stopped. The processor is further configured to automatically change an aspect of the menu screen after the information processing apparatus is turned off and re-started.