Multi-Display Interaction With Automatic Connection and Mode Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems for connecting multiple computer displays are cumbersome, require specialized knowledge, and lack intuitive human-machine interfaces, leading to inefficiencies and compatibility issues.

Innovation Solution

Systems and methods for intuitively connecting and operating multiple display devices through shared input and companion display modes, allowing easy communication and content sharing between devices, with improved human-machine interfaces and reduced power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple computer displays are connected using traditional methods, then content can be displayed across multiple devices, but the process requires specialized knowledge and is cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-display connectivityVSAvoidconnection process
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects available displays and configures projection modes without requiring manual user setup. The controlling electronic device autonomously manages the connection process by identifying display devices and establishing communication protocols, eliminating the need for users to have specialized knowledge of display configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

A wireless communication intermediary establishes automatic connection between the controlling electronic device and display devices. The system uses wireless protocols as mediators to facilitate seamless communication and data transmission, allowing displays to be connected and configured automatically without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional multi-display systems are used, then content sharing is enabled, but reconfiguration is required when devices are moved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontent sharing capabilityVSAvoidreconfiguration requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adapts to changes in device positions and configurations. When display devices are moved or repositioned, the controlling device automatically detects the new arrangement and reconfigures projection modes accordingly, maintaining content sharing capability without requiring manual reconfiguration by the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors the status and position of connected display devices, using feedback loops to detect when devices are moved or new displays are connected. This feedback mechanism triggers automatic reconfiguration processes that adjust projection settings based on the current physical arrangement of displays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If specialized display connection methods are used, then compatibility between different devices can be achieved, but the interface becomes unintuitive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice compatibilityVSAvoiduser interface
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects compatible display devices and selects appropriate projection modes without requiring users to navigate complex settings. The interface presents simplified options that adapt to the detected configuration, making the system usable by individuals without specialized technical knowledge while maintaining broad device compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Productivity

If multiple displays are operated concurrently, then user efficiency improves, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser efficiencyVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts power consumption based on the number and configuration of active displays. When multiple displays are connected, the system optimizes resource allocation by adjusting refresh rates, resolution, and data transmission frequencies to match the actual usage patterns, reducing unnecessary power consumption while maintaining user efficiency benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP4348411B1Systems and methods for interacting with multiple display devices
Publication Date: 2025.08.06 APPLE INC
  • EP4348411B1 patent drawingFigure 1A
  • EP4348411B1 patent drawingFigure 1B
  • EP4348411B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

A method is performed at a first computer system having a first display generation component in communication a second computer system having a second display generation component. The method includes, in response to an input, moving a representation of content across a first display region provided by the first display generation component to a second display region provided by the second display generation component when the display generation components are communication in a first mode or a second mode. The method includes moving an application window across the first display region to the second display region provided when the display generation components are communication in the first mode and preventing the moving across the first display region to the second display region when the display generation components are in communication in the second mode.