Multi-Layer Shortcut Icon Window for Portable Terminals
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Solution Overview
Problem
The limited screen size of portable terminals restricts the number of shortcut icons that can be displayed, making it time-consuming for users to find and execute desired applications.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for displaying a shortcut icon window with multiple layers, where a first layer shows a plurality of shortcut icons and a second layer displays additional shortcut icons, allowing users to easily select and execute applications with simple user inputs, such as gestures, even while another application is running.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple shortcut icons are displayed on the display unit, then the number of accessible applications increases, but the screen size limitation restricts how many icons can be shown at once
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vertical layering dimension to the display interface. When a shortcut icon is selected, a second layer containing additional shortcut icons is displayed above the first layer, effectively utilizing the vertical space and creating a multi-level navigation structure that expands the number of displayable icons beyond the single-screen limitation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more applications are installed in the portable terminal, then the functionality increases, but the time required to find the desired shortcut icon increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-organizes shortcut icons into multiple layers with related applications grouped together. When a user selects a shortcut icon, the system proactively displays a second layer containing shortcut icons for applications that are likely to be needed next, eliminating the need for users to search through all applications and reducing the time to access related functions.
3Ease of operation
If a single layer of shortcut icons is displayed, then the interface simplicity is maintained, but the ease of operation deteriorates when multiple applications need to be accessed
Solution Approach 1:
The interface dynamically transitions between a simple single-layer view and an expanded multi-layer view based on user interaction. Initially, only the first layer is displayed to maintain simplicity. When a shortcut icon is selected, the system dynamically adds a second layer above it, providing enhanced accessibility without permanently complicating the interface structure.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for displaying a shortcut icon window of a mobile device includes: a display unit that displays a first layer including a plurality of first shortcut icons for executing different applications and a second layer including a shortcut icon window having one or more second shortcut icons, the second layer being located on the first layer; and a controller that, when at least one of the first shortcut icons is selected, controls to display the shortcut icon window on an execution screen of an application corresponding to the selected at least one first shortcut icon.