GUI Layer Overlap Resolution via Vertical Swiping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices face usability issues due to overlapping graphical user interface (GUI) objects, where upper layer objects obscure lower layer objects, making it inconvenient for users to access primary items like background images.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that detect a non-overlapping area for lower layer GUI objects and adjust the display configuration of upper layer objects to prevent overlap, either by relocating or resizing upper layer objects, or grouping them into folders, ensuring that lower layer objects remain visible.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If upper layer GUI objects are displayed to maximize screen utilization, then screen space efficiency is improved, but lower layer GUI objects become obscured and inaccessible
Solution Approach 1:
The display area is segmented into multiple layers (upper layer and lower layer GUI objects). The system segments the screen space to accommodate both upper and lower layer objects simultaneously, allowing users to access lower layer objects by swiping up from the bottom of the screen without requiring relocation of upper layer objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension for layer management by enabling users to swipe up from the bottom of the screen to access lower layer GUI objects that are obscured by upper layer objects. This adds a new interaction dimension (vertical swiping) rather than requiring horizontal relocation or reorganization of objects.
2Ease of operation
If users manually relocate upper layer GUI objects to avoid overlap, then visibility of lower layer objects is improved, but user time and effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service functionality by automatically detecting when upper layer GUI objects obscure lower layer objects and prompting users to swipe up to access the obscured objects. This eliminates the need for users to manually relocate objects, as the system handles the layer management automatically through gesture-based access.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection to identify when lower layer GUI objects are obscured by upper layer objects before user interaction is needed. When obscuration is detected, the system proactively provides guidance or automatic access mechanisms, preventing the need for time-consuming manual object relocation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If background images are used as lower layer GUI objects, then visual appeal is improved, but accessibility of background elements deteriorates when covered
Solution Approach 1:
The interface is segmented into distinct layers where background images are placed in the lower layer and interactive GUI objects are placed in the upper layer. This segmentation allows the background image to provide visual appeal while remaining accessible through vertical swiping, eliminating the need to choose between aesthetics and functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables access to background images through a vertical dimension by allowing users to swipe up from the bottom of the screen. This adds a new interaction mode that preserves the visual appeal of background images while making them accessible, rather than requiring the background to be completely obscured for functional elements to work.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for displaying images so that a lower graphical user interface (GUI) object and an upper GUI object do not overlap each other in a specific area in a screen of an electronic device is provided. The displaying method includes detecting a non-overlapping area in a lower GUI object, determining whether upper GUI objects are displayed to overlap the non-overlapping area, and if the upper GUI objects are displayed to overlap the non-overlapping area at least in part, changing a display configuration of at least one of the GUI objects.