Orientation Sensor Display Range Control for Intuitive Scrolling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional techniques for changing the display range on a display apparatus based on its orientation can be cumbersome and burdensome for users, making the operation less intuitive and efficient.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating an orientation sensor and a processing program that allows users to control the display range by changing the orientation of the display unit, with distinct states (first and second states) that enable intuitive scrolling, stopping, and switching of the display range, using thresholds to prevent frequent state switching and allowing natural operation modes like standing or laying the device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the display range is changed by conventional methods, then the display range can be adjusted, but the operation becomes troublesome and burdensome for the user

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperability of changing display rangeVSAvoidcomplexity of operation steps
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects the orientation of the display unit using an orientation sensor and autonomously changes the display range based on the detected orientation, eliminating the need for manual operation. The display unit serves itself by converting orientation changes directly into display range adjustments, making the operation intuitive and burden-free for users

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated sensor-based system. The orientation sensor detects the display unit's orientation, and the control unit automatically adjusts the display range based on predefined orientation thresholds, substituting manual mechanical adjustment with an automated electromechanical system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If the display range changes continuously with orientation, then scrolling is intuitive, but frequent unintended state switches may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintuitiveness of scrolling operationVSAvoidstability of state switching
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system pre-establishes threshold values for orientation detection before actual operation. By setting predetermined threshold angles in advance, the system prepares the switching criteria beforehand, ensuring that state changes only occur when orientation exceeds these pre-defined boundaries, thus preventing frequent unintended switches while maintaining intuitive scrolling

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a buffer zone through threshold values that prevent immediate switching at every minor orientation change. The threshold acts as a cushion that absorbs small orientation fluctuations, ensuring that state switching only occurs when the orientation change is significant enough to cross the threshold, thereby stabilizing the system against noise and minor variations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution enhances user operability by allowing intuitive control of the display range through orientation changes, simplifying operations, and reducing the burden of managing display range adjustments, while preventing unintended state switches and improving the overall user experience.

Implementation Method 1

an orientation sensor that detects an orientation of the display unit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravitation: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS9805695B2Display apparatus, storage medium having stored in information processing program, information processing apparatus, information processing system, and image display method
Publication Date: 2017.10.31 NINTENDO CO LTD
  • US9805695B2 patent drawing
  • US9805695B2 patent drawing
  • US9805695B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An example information processing apparatus determines whether an orientation of a display unit capable of being held by a user is in a first state or in a second state. If it has been determined that the orientation of the display unit is in the first state, the information processing apparatus sets, in a predetermined area, a display range to be displayed in the display unit, in accordance with the orientation of the display unit. If it has been determined that the orientation of the display unit is in the second state, the information processing apparatus sets the display range, regardless of the orientation of the display unit.