Hexagonal Grid Icon Rearrangement for Small-Form-Factor Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern electronic devices with small form factors face challenges in efficiently rearranging user interface objects like application icons due to limited display space, making it difficult for users to view and position icons in desired locations.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a touch-sensitive display that allows users to rearrange application icons on a hexagonal grid, utilizing user inputs to transition and reconfigure icons based on detected contacts and intensities, enabling efficient repositioning and deletion of icons.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If application icons are arranged in a traditional grid layout, then the layout is simple and easy to implement, but the display space utilization is inefficient on small form factor devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a traditional two-dimensional rectangular grid to a three-dimensional hexagonal grid arrangement. This dimensional change allows icons to be positioned in hexagonal cells that pack more efficiently, increasing the number of icons that can be displayed within the same screen area while maintaining accessibility and usability.
2Ease of operation
If more application icons are displayed on the screen, then the accessibility to frequently used applications improves, but the screen becomes cluttered and harder to navigate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the display area into distinct hexagonal grid cells, each capable of holding one application icon. This segmentation creates clear visual boundaries and organized groups, allowing users to easily locate and access applications without feeling overwhelmed by clutter. The hexagonal structure naturally divides the screen into manageable sections.
Solution Approach 2:
By arranging icons in a hexagonal grid rather than a traditional rectangular grid, the patent creates a more efficient spatial organization that increases display capacity while maintaining navigability. The hexagonal pattern provides better space utilization and creates natural visual flow, making it easier for users to scan and access applications even when more icons are displayed.
3Ease of operation
If users can freely rearrange application icons, then the customization and usability improve, but the time and effort required for rearrangement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hexagonal grid structure enables more efficient icon rearrangement by providing multiple valid positions for each icon. When users drag and drop icons, the hexagonal pattern allows for smoother transitions and fewer conflicts compared to rectangular grids, reducing the time and effort required to achieve desired layouts while maintaining full customization capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes displaying a plurality of application icons for launching application programs, where the application icons occupy respective locations on a hexagonal grid and are arranged in a first configuration. An input that corresponds to a request to move the first application icon from a first location to a respective location, different from the first location, is detected. In response to the input, the display of the plurality of application icons is transitioned from the first configuration to a second configuration.