Resizable Graphical Elements with Threshold Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional graphical user interfaces on data processing devices with limited display space become cumbersome when numerous functions are available, as resizing graphical elements either obscures or reveals parts of the interface, making it difficult for users to access and understand all functionality.
Innovation Solution
A data processing apparatus that displays resizable graphical elements, switching between different graphical elements when a predetermined threshold size is exceeded, allowing for increased functionality and information display, with each element potentially provided by different applications, and utilizing user data to optimize resource usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple graphical elements are displayed simultaneously on devices with limited display space, then more functions are accessible, but the interface becomes confusing and difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The interface is segmented into multiple graphical elements that can be independently displayed and managed. Each graphical element represents a distinct functional area, allowing the system to divide complex functionality into manageable segments that can be organized and accessed systematically rather than presenting all functions at once in a confusing manner.
2Loss of information
If graphical elements are resized to show more content, then more information is visible, but parts of the interface become obscured or hidden
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of resolving the information display problem by resizing in the same dimensional space (which causes obscuration), the system transitions to another dimension by switching between different graphical elements. This dimensional transition allows complete information to be displayed without overlapping or obscuring other interface elements, as each element occupies its own display state.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional resizable graphical elements are used, then display flexibility is provided, but it becomes unclear what information and functionality is available
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where resizing a graphical element triggers automatic switching to an appropriate replacement element based on the new size. This feedback loop ensures that the displayed content always matches the user's resizing action, providing clear indication of available functionality without requiring the user to interpret partially visible or obscured interface elements.
4Loss of information
If all functionality is displayed at once, then complete information is available, but the interface becomes too complex for small screens
Solution Approach 1:
The interface employs dynamic behavior where graphical elements automatically transition between different states based on their size. Rather than statically displaying all functionality at once in a complex layout, the system dynamically switches between simplified and comprehensive graphical elements based on the available display space and user interaction, adapting the interface complexity to match the screen real estate.
Data Source
AI summary
A data processing apparatus executes one or more computer program applications. The data programming, apparatus is operable to display at least one resizable graphical element from a plurality of resizable graphical elements on a display and resize the at least one displayed graphical element in response to a resize control input from a user control. The data processing device is operable to switch between which of the plurality of graphical elements is displayed if the displayed graphical element is resized to be greater in size or to be less in size than one of a plurality of predetermined threshold sizes. Each of the plurality of graphical elements includes at least one graphical object or interface control different from the other graphical elements of the plurality of graphical elements and a greater a size of one of the plurality of predetermined threshold sizes, a greater a number of controls and/or graphical objects included in the graphical element that is displayed when the displayed graphical element is resized to exceed that predetermined threshold size.