Visual Power Saving Feedback via Color and Dimension Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional information processing apparatuses lack consideration for complex power usage settings and display power savings in an inhuman way, failing to enhance user eagerness for power reduction and manage power usage effectively.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus with a history storage unit to accumulate power usage reductions, an adding-up unit to calculate savings, and an image generation unit to visually display the difference between target and actual power usage reductions, using images to induce a sense of accomplishment and facilitate comparison.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional numerical display methods are used to show power usage reduction, then the information can be displayed, but the user's eagerness to attain power saving cannot be enhanced due to the inhuman display style
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes by displaying power usage reduction effects using green-colored visual indicators. The green color symbolizes environmental friendliness and power saving achievement, making the abstract numerical data emotionally resonant and motivating for users. This transforms the dry numerical display into an engaging visual experience that enhances user eagerness to save power.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional numerical display to two-dimensional graphical representation. By showing power usage reduction as visual bars or indicators rather than mere numbers, the system adds a spatial dimension that makes the information more comprehensible and emotionally impactful, thereby enhancing user engagement and eagerness to attain power saving goals.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex power usage settings are provided in information processing apparatus, then various operation modes can be configured, but no consideration is given to these complex settings in power saving calculation and display
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the actual operation mode and power usage settings of the information processing apparatus, then using this feedback to dynamically calculate and display accurate power usage reduction effects. The system adjusts its calculations based on the complex settings actually in use, ensuring that the displayed savings reflect the true impact of the configured operation modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the power usage reduction calculation adaptive to changing operation modes and settings. Rather than using fixed assumptions, the system dynamically adjusts its calculations based on the current complex settings of the apparatus, ensuring accurate representation of power savings across various operational configurations.
3Ease of operation
If only saving amount in power usage is displayed without target value, then the display is simple, but it is difficult for users and managers to manage power saving activities sufficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the power usage reduction information into distinct visual segments: the actual savings achieved and the target savings goal. This segmentation allows the display to remain relatively simple while providing comprehensive management information, as users can easily compare the two segments to understand both current performance and objectives.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a visual intermediary element (such as a target indicator or goal marker) that mediates between the simple display requirement and the need for comprehensive management information. This intermediary provides target value context without overwhelming the user, enabling both simplicity and sufficient management capability.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing apparatus that is operable in a first operation state and a second operation state, the apparatus including: a history storage unit configured to accumulate: a power usage reduction that is calculated based on a power usage difference between the first operation state and the second operation state; and an acquisition time at which the power usage reduction is acquired; an adding-up unit configured to add up values of the power usage reduction for a given period thereby calculating a power usage reduction amount; and an image generation unit configured to generate an image indicating a difference between the power usage reduction amount and a target value therefor and to display the image on a display device.