Perspective Calendar Timeline Interface for Visual Complexity Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic device calendars become visually complex as more information is displayed, making it difficult for users to assess information, especially on smaller screens and when viewing multiple calendars simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for generating a calendar interface that displays a timeline with segments and intervals, where each segment represents a period of time, with visually distinguished intervals for calendar items, and the ability to display multiple timelines in different time zones, using sinusoidal coordinates for a perspective appearance, and adjustable reference lines to highlight specific times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If more calendar information is displayed, then the quantity of information increases, but the visual complexity increases making it harder to assess
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the calendar information into discrete visual segments representing time periods (days, weeks, months) arranged along a timeline. Each segment is a distinct visual element that can be individually assessed, allowing users to process information in manageable units rather than overwhelming continuous data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms linear calendar data into a two-dimensional visual layout with temporal progression along one axis and visual hierarchy along another. Information is organized spatially with earlier times positioned differently than later times, creating a visual dimension that aids comprehension beyond simple linear listing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If calendar information is displayed on smaller screens, then portability is improved, but the difficulty of viewing and assessing information increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different visual properties to different regions of the timeline based on their temporal position. Earlier time periods are displayed with visual characteristics that distinguish them from later periods, with each region optimized for its specific informational density and importance to the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs curved or angled timeline arrangements rather than straight linear displays. This curvature creates visual flow and natural progression through time, making the timeline more intuitive to follow on small screens where straight lines may appear cramped or less engaging.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple calendars are viewed simultaneously, then the versatility of the calendar system increases, but the visual complexity and difficulty of assessment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple calendar datasets into a single unified visual timeline structure. Different calendars are integrated along the same temporal axis, allowing users to view multiple calendars simultaneously without creating separate visual systems, thereby reducing overall complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal timeline framework that can accommodate multiple calendar types and timezones. The same visual structure serves multiple functions - displaying different calendars, different time periods, and different user schedules - eliminating the need for separate display systems for each calendar.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is a computer implemented method for generating a calendar interface. The method includes determining a total time period value indicating a total time period to be displayed, determining a segment duration, determining an interval duration, calculating timeline coordinates defining a timeline extending from a foreground of the display to a background of the display and having a perspective appearance, and displaying a timeline in accordance with the timeline coordinates. The timeline coordinates define the timeline to have a plurality of segments, each segment representing a period of time within the total time period equal to the segment duration. Each segment is composed of a plurality of timeline intervals, each timeline interval representing a period of time within the total time period equal to the interval duration. Each segment has a display length, and wherein the display length of a segment representing an earlier period of time is longer than a display length of a segment representing a later period of time. A given segment travels in a direction that is re-entrant relative to a direction travelled by an adjacent segment.