Hinge-Coupled Screen Region State-Based Display Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional devices with single screen regions often display information in a cluttered manner, limiting the ability to access multiple applications simultaneously and provide input to applications beyond the primary interaction screen.

Innovation Solution

A state-based determination system for a hinge-coupled screen region that adjusts displayed information based on factors like hinge state, device orientation, user context, and application states, allowing for the display of virtual controls, notifications, and interface elements across multiple screen regions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single screen region is used to display all information, then the device structure remains simple, but the information becomes cluttered and important information may be overlooked

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice structureVSAvoidinformation clarity

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The display is segmented into multiple independent screen regions (primary screen region and edge screen region) that can display different information simultaneously. This segmentation allows important information to be separated from general information, preventing clutter while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If a single screen region displays one application at a time, then the interface remains simple, but the user cannot access multiple applications simultaneously

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinterface simplicityVSAvoidmulti-application access efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The edge screen region is positioned perpendicular to the primary screen region, creating a spatial dimension for application access. Users can interact with applications on the edge screen while viewing content on the primary screen, enabling simultaneous multi-application access without complicating the primary interface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Device complexity

If the edge screen has a single state, then the device structure remains simple, but the utility of the edge screen is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehinge mechanismVSAvoidedge screen utility

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge coupling the edge screen to the primary screen enables dynamic positioning with multiple states (first state and second state). This allows the edge screen to adapt its orientation and functionality based on user needs, significantly increasing versatility while adding only a single mechanical hinge component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10606540B2Device having a screen region on a hinge coupled between other screen regions

Publication Date: 2020.03.31 MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGY LICENSING LLC

AI summary

Techniques are described herein that are capable of making a state-based determination of information to be displayed on a screen region of a hinge that is coupled to other screen regions. For instance, a state of a hinge that is coupled between a first screen region and a second screen region may be determined. Information that is to be displayed on a third screen region that is provided on the hinge may be determine based at least in part on the state of the hinge.