Dynamic User Interface Adaptation for Varying Device Handling Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing user interfaces for electronic devices often fail to adapt effectively to changes in the manner of operation or environmental conditions, leading to decreased usability as users switch between different functions or handling methods, such as holding a device with one hand versus two hands or using a stylus.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses sensors to detect physical and environmental parameters, correlating this information with pre-defined interface designs to dynamically adapt the user interface, rearranging interactive and non-interactive elements for enhanced usability and aesthetic appeal, regardless of the device's orientation or environmental conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the user interface elements are designed to enhance usability for a specific manner of operation, then usability is improved for that specific operation, but usability decreases when the user changes the manner of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic user interface adaptation by continuously monitoring sensor data (accelerometer, gyroscope, touch input patterns) to detect changes in device handling mode, and automatically reconfiguring UI element positions, sizes, and layouts in real-time to optimize usability for the detected mode, whether one-handed, two-handed, or tabletop operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes multiple UI parameters simultaneously based on detected operation mode, including element position coordinates, element size dimensions, layout configuration, and interaction target zones, allowing the interface to transform its physical characteristics to match the user's current handling style
2Ease of operation
If the user interface is designed to accommodate a specific function or application, then usability is enhanced for that function, but the interface cannot effectively adapt when switching between different functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal interface adaptation system that works across all applications and device functions by implementing a layer of sensor-based detection and automatic UI reconfiguration that operates independently of the specific application being used, allowing the same mechanism to serve communication, media playback, browsing, and other functions
3Device complexity
If the user interface elements remain constant, then the design is simple and consistent, but the user must accommodate the design when changing operation modes, reducing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service interface adaptation by automatically detecting operation mode through sensors and autonomously reconfiguring UI elements without requiring user intervention, mode selection, or manual adjustment, thereby maintaining operational efficiency across different handling styles while keeping the adaptation mechanism transparent to the user
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The invention relates to a system and method for automatically adapting a user interface for a computer operated device in response to the manner in which the device is physically operated and the conditions surrounding operation. The system provides sensors on or within a device in order to detect the physical position, identity, or orientation of an object used for interfacing with the device. The orientation of the device and the environmental conditions around the device are also determined. In turn, the system adapts the interactive control or input elements and/or the non-interactive elements of the UI in order to optimize usability of the device.