Nested Window Display for Unobstructed Hierarchical Data Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Smart compact devices face challenges in presenting large amounts of data on small screens due to the obscuration of data when using popup windows, limiting navigation to only the current hierarchical level.
Innovation Solution
A data presentation module that modifies the display by reducing the size of non-selected data items and displaying detailed information in a new window or semi-transparent foreground, allowing unobstructed viewing of both top-level and lower-level data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a popup window is used to display detailed information, then the detailed information is clearly visible, but the popup window obscures the main data list and prevents navigation at other hierarchical levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested window structure where a first window containing a data list and a second window containing detailed information are both displayed on the same screen. The second window is positioned to overlap with the first window, creating a nested visual hierarchy. This allows users to view detailed information while simultaneously accessing the parent data list for navigation, eliminating the need to switch between separate screens or windows.
2Area of stationary object
If the display screen size is small, then the device is compact and portable, but large amounts of data cannot be presented easily
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes spatial overlay in the visual dimension to solve the limited screen real estate problem. By positioning the second window (detailed information) to overlap with the first window (data list) rather than placing it sequentially, the interface effectively displays more information simultaneously within the constrained screen area. This dimensional arrangement allows users to access both summary and detailed views without requiring additional screen space.
3Loss of information
If all data items are displayed at full size, then each item is easily readable, but the screen cannot accommodate multiple levels of hierarchical data simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different visual qualities to different regions of the interface. The first window maintains full-size, high-contrast display for the data list to ensure readability and easy navigation. The second window, containing detailed information, is positioned to overlap and can be differentiated through transparency or positioning. This local differentiation allows each region to optimize for its specific function while maintaining overall information accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a method for controlling display of data includes identifying a data item selected by a user from multiple data items displayed on a display screen, and modifying the appearance of the multiple data items. The method further includes causing the multiple data items to be displayed on the display screen in the modified form, together with additional information pertaining to the selected data item, where the additional information is presented without obscuring the multiple data items displayed on the display screen.